Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Is your seafood climate friendly? Scientists outline the benefits of marine aquaculture

Mariculture has the potential to deliver high-protein foodstuffs with a significantly reduced carbon footprint compared to terrestrial products. The authors suggest various ways to improve mariculture's sustainability, including supply chain improvements and cofarming practices that can lead to net reductions in CO2 emissions.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 25, 2022

Exploring fish flow from fisheries to supper

Researchers developed unprecedented insights into the natural and commercial flow of fish, highlighting the importance of inclusive approaches to fisheries management and conservation. The study's findings indicate a strong connection between larval dispersal and catch distribution in Hawaii, emphasizing the need for community-based ma...

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 21, 2022
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Shifting ocean closures best way to protect animals from accidental catch

Researchers found that dynamic ocean management is more effective in reducing accidental catch than permanent marine protected areas. Dynamic closures track real-time data and close smaller areas as species hotspots shift, resulting in up to 57% reduction in bycatch.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 17, 2022
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

New bacteria in UK waters as temperatures rise

A new study by the University of Exeter reveals two previously unknown Vibrio species in UK waters, which can cause gastroenteritis and skin infections in humans. The increasing range of these bacteria also threatens marine biodiversity and the seafood industry, with potential economic costs estimated at £6 billion annually.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalWater Research·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 2022

Powerful new tool makes coral reef monitoring faster, easier, cheaper

Researchers have developed a powerful new tool that can determine the diversity of hard corals on a reef by analyzing DNA in seawater samples. This method is faster, easier, and less expensive than traditional visual identification, allowing for more accurate coral reef conservation and restoration.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2021

Septic system waste pervasive throughout Florida’s Indian River lagoon

A study by FAU Harbor Branch reveals that even properly functioning septic systems contribute to nitrogen pollution in the Indian River Lagoon. Groundwater samples showed higher dissolved nutrient concentrations than surface waters, indicating contaminated groundwater as a major source of nutrient loading.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Climate extreme intensifies conflict between people and whales

New research explores how climate extremes affect the West Coast Dungeness crab fishery and its impact on whale conservation. The study recommends combining improved forecast systems, technological innovations, and understanding human behavior to reduce whale entanglements.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeCase study·DateDec 1, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Ivermectin could help save the endangered Australian sea lion

Researchers found that topical ivermectin treatment is highly effective against hookworm infection in Australian sea lion pups, with a success rate of 96.4 percent. Early treatment before disease development significantly improves overall survival rates.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalInternational Journal for Parasitology·DateDec 1, 2021

Extent of migration of sooty terns presents conservation challenges

Researchers used GLS tracking data to study sooty terns' migration patterns, showing they range up to 2,900 km from breeding colonies and cover 47,000 km during an eight-month migratory period. The largest breeding population of terns is on Ascension Island, which was designated a Marine Protection Area in 2019.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeObservational study·DateNov 29, 2021

Biology: Louder petrol engine noise disrupts whale resting and nursing

Whale-watch vessels with louder petrol engines significantly disrupt short-finned pilot whale resting and nursing, according to a study. The researchers found that mothers who were approached by the vessel with the petrol engine spent on average 29% less time resting and 81% less time nursing their calves.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 11, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Study finds fish rubbing up against their predators — sharks

A recent study found that fish frequently rub against sharks to remove skin irritants and parasites. This behavior, previously unknown, could play a significant ecological role for aquatic animals. The research team documented over 47 instances of fish chafing against shark skin in 13 locations around the world.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalEcology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 4, 2021

Nearly 300 scientists ask the WTO to ban harmful fisheries subsidies

Two hundred ninety scientific researchers from 46 countries urge the World Trade Organization (WTO) to ban harmful fisheries subsidies that contribute to overcapacity and overfishing. The signatories cite research showing that such subsidies lead to unsustainable fishing practices, contravening UN Sustainable Development Goal 14.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience·DateOct 29, 2021

Ancestors of whale sharks in Panama may come from distant waters

A recent study found that whale sharks in Panama may originate from the Arabian Gulf and Western Indian Ocean, highlighting their ability to travel long distances. This discovery underscores the need for transboundary conservation measures like marine corridors to protect this endangered species.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateOct 28, 2021

NSF funds Texas A&M research on west coast fisheries management

A team of scientists led by Piers Chapman will develop a sustainable blue decision support system to help West Coast communities dependent on fisheries. The project aims to provide climate-informed information for fisheries management and decision-making, enabling stakeholders to make better long-term decisions.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateOct 27, 2021

Life’s a beach: Finding trends in marine debris across Australia

A UNSW-led study analyzing 10 years of citizen science data found that almost half of marine debris can be linked to land-based sources. Plastic accounts for 84% of the rubbish found on Australian beaches, with a significant portion coming from external sources such as stormwater drains near capital cities.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 18, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Quick test for potential probiotic in seawater may reveal health of corals

Researchers developed a quick test to identify beneficial bacteria species known to benefit coral, allowing for non-invasive assessment of coral health. The method enables rapid detection of specific bacterial species in seawater and coral samples, suggesting that the bacteria may be concentrated in coral.

SourceOsaka Prefecture University·JournalMarine Biotechnology·TypeNews article·DateOct 13, 2021

Study at molecular level finds IRL green sea turtles biologically stressed

Research at Florida Atlantic University found that green sea turtles in polluted environments have impaired immune systems, leading to increased disease susceptibility. The study suggests a positive feedback loop where pollution compromises immunity, making turtles more prone to Green Turtle Fibropapillomatosis.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Wildlife Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Eye on the tiger: genetics show global fisheries management should re-think tiger sharks

Research confirms two separate tiger shark populations in the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific oceans, despite trans-oceanic migrations. This long-term separation has resulted in distinct genetic diversity among Hawaiian and Indian Ocean tiger sharks, emphasizing the need for tailored management plans and targeted conservation efforts.

SourceSave Our Seas Foundation·JournalJournal of Heredity·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 27, 2021
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Marine Protected Area status can boost fish populations by almost 400%

Researchers found that areas protected under 'whole-site' Marine Protected Area (MPA) status have four-fold increases in fish abundance and diversity compared to unprotected areas. The study also showed significant benefits for commercially important fish species and conservation.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 9, 2021

“The MPA Guide”: Local voices must be heard for effective ocean protection

The MPA Guide categorizes MPAs by stage of establishment and level of protection, highlighting the importance of including local peoples in the decision-making process for effective conservation. The guide specifies outcomes for biodiversity and human well-being depending on the chosen level of protection.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalScience·DateSep 9, 2021

Long-distance relationships for endangered corals

Researchers successfully used cryopreserved sperm to fertilize coral eggs from hundreds of miles away, demonstrating the reproductive compatibility of distant coral colonies. The technique, known as assisted gene flow, has potential as a conservation tool for endangered corals and could accelerate their adaptation to climate change.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2021
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation completes the largest coral reef survey and mapping expedition in history

The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation has completed the largest coral reef survey and mapping expedition in history, assessing over 1,000 reefs in 16 countries. The Global Reef Expedition provided a comprehensive dataset for coral reef conservation, highlighting the status and major threats to these ecosystems.

SourceKhaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 2021

Study shows tiger sharks have social preferences for one another

A study by the University of Miami found that tiger sharks form social groups and exhibit social preferences, but interactions become more random when fed by dive tourism. The researchers tracked tiger sharks over three years and used Social Network Analysis to examine their behavior.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 3, 2021

Seabed recovers more quickly following extreme storms than from the impacts of bottom-towed fishing

A study by University of Plymouth researchers found that seabed habitats and species recover more quickly following extreme storms than from the impacts of bottom-towed fishing. The research examined the impact of the 2013/14 winter storms on the Lyme Bay Marine Protected Area, off southern England's coast.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeObservational study·DateAug 27, 2021
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Hundreds of Cape Fur seals entangled in fishing lines and nets every year

A study by Stellenbosch University and conservationists reveals a high number of Cape Fur seals are entangled in fishing lines and nets annually, with most affected being pups and juveniles. The researchers found that disentanglement efforts have been successful, but the problem remains urgent, emphasizing the need for policy changes t...

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeObservational study·DateAug 20, 2021

Humans managed shellfish and their predators for millennia, study finds

A new study confirms that Indigenous people managed shellfish and sea otters for thousands of years, safeguarding access to traditional foods. This challenges widely held assumptions about high numbers of sea otters in the past, affecting conservation policy and Indigenous reconciliation.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalEcosystems·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 18, 2021

Microplastics hinder the growth of microscopic marine animals

A recent study found that microplastic ingestion by dinoflagellates lowers their growth and abundance, affecting the larger marine animals that feed on them. The impact is significant, with energy transfer up the food chain reduced by as much as 30%.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 2021

Low-cost 3D method rapidly measures disease impacts on Florida’s coral reefs

Researchers from FAU Harbor Branch adapted Structure-from-Motion photogrammetry to generate 3D models for tracking lesion progression and impacts on diseased coral colonies. The study found that stony coral tissue loss disease prevalence varied significantly across location, but not through time.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateAug 12, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Science alone won’t save humpback dolphins

The Indian Ocean humpback dolphin is on the brink of extinction with fewer than 500 individuals remaining in South African waters. A multi-stakeholder approach is necessary to address the cumulative effects of human activities, including coastal construction and pollution, which are impacting population numbers.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeContent analysis·DateAug 11, 2021

‘Sticky questions’ raised by study on coral reefs

A new study on coral reefs in Kiribati found that more polluted and high-traffic waters can handle extreme heat events better than remote reefs. The research raises questions about the effectiveness of marine protected areas in conserving coral reefs.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 11, 2021

Salt marsh resilience compromised by crabs along tidal creek edges

A long-term study in Elkhorn Slough found that superabundant crabs weaken tidal creek banks, reducing marsh plant growth and increasing erosion. Reducing crab abundance led to increased salt marsh vegetation growth and enhanced sediment density.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalEcosphere·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

Plastic creates 'evolutionary trap' for young sea turtles

A new study found that plastic pollution is ingested by juvenile sea turtles, leading them to accumulate in highly polluted areas like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. The research team examined 121 sea turtles from five species and found that 86% of loggerheads and 83% of greens contained plastic.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·TypeObservational study·DateAug 2, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Variations in climate conditions affect reproductive success of Antarctic krill, study finds

A new study from Oregon State University found that climate conditions significantly affect the reproductive success of mature female Antarctic krill. The researchers discovered a relationship between the condition of these females during spawning season and the proportion of juvenile krill in the population the following year.

SourceOregon State University·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 28, 2021

Save Our Seas Foundation announces a record 61 grants for 2021

The Save Our Seas Foundation has awarded 61 grants in 2021, with recipients spanning seven continents and focusing on shark, ray, and sawfish conservation. The grants support innovative projects using cutting-edge technology, citizen science, and local knowledge to address pressing ocean conservation crises.

SourceSave Our Seas Foundation·DateJul 20, 2021

UCF study finds smaller turtles are nesting on Florida beaches

A University of Central Florida study found that smaller loggerhead and green sea turtles are nesting on Florida beaches than in the past. The researchers measured nearly 10,000 nesting female loggerheads and over 3,000 nesting female green turtles and discovered a decline in average size over the past 37 years.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalEcosphere·DateJul 8, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Mediterranean turtles recovering at different rates

New research shows Mediterranean green turtle populations are recovering, but loggerhead turtles face additional threats due to high mortality rates. The study found stable reproduction rates among loggerheads, suggesting deaths among all ages impede their recovery.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAnimal Conservation·DateMay 10, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Cayman Islands sea turtles back from the brink

Sea turtle nesting populations in the Cayman Islands have recovered significantly after conservation efforts, with loggerhead and green turtle numbers increasing dramatically. However, hawksbill turtle nest numbers remain low and populations still face threats including illegal hunting and artificial lighting on nesting beaches.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateMay 4, 2021

Crucial action needed for coral reefs

Over 500 million people rely on coral reefs for protection and resources, but these ecosystems are threatened by global warming. A team of scientists recommends a massive energy transition as the most effective action to limit coral reef decline, with international political support necessary.

SourceCNRS·JournalBiological Conservation·DateApr 20, 2021

How can we conserve Seychelles giant trevallies?

New research reveals that Seychelles giant trevally's home range increases as it grows, emphasizing the need for long-term tracking and monitoring of threatened species. The study suggests conserving nursery areas like St Joseph Atoll to protect the next generation and finding a balance between harvesting and catch-and-release fishing.

SourceSave Our Seas Foundation·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateApr 15, 2021

Stanford researchers and others illuminate mystery of sea turtles' epic migrations

A Stanford-led study illuminates the mystery of North Pacific loggerhead turtles' epic migrations between Japan and Baja California, providing evidence of a 'thermal corridor' that allows them to cross inhospitably cold ocean barriers. The findings could inform conservation measures to protect sea turtles amidst climatic changes.

SourceStanford University·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateApr 8, 2021
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Capturing the complex

Researchers map human impacts on threatened and near-threatened marine species over time, revealing widespread and intensifying pressures. Corals are found to be severely impacted across their entire ranges, with climate-related impacts increasing in severity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateApr 1, 2021

Pew names 9 marine fellows to advance global ocean conservation

The Pew Charitable Trusts has named 9 distinguished researchers as 2021 recipients of the Pew fellowship in marine conservation. The new fellows will undertake projects addressing ocean conservation and management needs globally, from improving shark conservation to studying coastal habitats.

SourcePew Charitable Trusts·DateMar 31, 2021

These baby great white sharks love to hang out near New York

A study using satellite technology has revealed the 3D movements of young great white sharks near New York, showing they prefer coastal waters and can exhibit connectivity to mid-continental shelf regions. The research provides new insights into their ecology, behavior, and conservation, informing preservation strategies for this vulne...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateMar 23, 2021
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Three times the gains

A groundbreaking global study maps ocean areas that, if strongly protected, can help solve climate, food and biodiversity crises. The research identified specific regions that could provide multiple benefits, including safeguarding nearly 80% of marine species and preventing the release of one billion tons of CO2 into the ocean.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateMar 17, 2021