Oceanography
Articles tagged with Oceanography
Tiny ocean life helps scientists estimate whale prevalence off the California coast
The life story of the critically endangered Rice's whale, estimated to have just 50 remaining adults, is evidenced in new analysis of the hormones it stores in its baleen throughout its life
Climate change: How oxygen deficiency changes metabolic processes in the ocean
A new study reveals how sulfur compounds are metabolized under oxygen-deficient conditions, with microorganisms like Flavobacteria playing a key role. Taurine, an organic sulfur compound found in red meat and energy drinks, is assimilated only in low-oxygen waters.
Antarctica sea ice collapse driven by triple whammy of climate chaos, scientists find
A new study reveals Antarctica's sea ice collapse is driven by a triple whammy of climate chaos, resulting in record-breaking lows. The Southern Ocean's transformation led to the loss of vast areas of ice equivalent to Greenland, destabilizing global ocean currents and accelerating global warming.
The merits and pitfalls of metaphor use in science communication
Rapidly melting Antarctic ice shelves may cause global sea levels to rise far faster than expected – new study
A new study suggests that rapidly melting Antarctic ice shelves can lead to a significant increase in global sea levels. The researchers found that long, channel-like grooves on the underside of these ice shelves can trap warm ocean water, causing local melting and potentially weakening the structural strength of the ice shelf.
Video and audio monitoring of the Arctic seafloor captures rarely seen phenomena: fish swimming backwards, narwhal calls nearby, and a beautiful array of deep-sea dwellers and tide-driven "marine snow”
Researchers used seafloor video and audio monitoring to capture rare phenomena in a Greenlandic glacial fjord, including fish swimming backwards and making sudden appearances of deep-sea dwellers. The study also revealed the presence of narwhals near the surface, providing new insights into the Arctic ecosystem.
Sharks may help improve climate forecasts, study finds
A new study demonstrates that animal-borne sensors, such as those on tagged sharks, can enhance ocean forecast accuracy in regions with limited observational data. By incorporating shark-collected temperature and depth data into a seasonal climate model, forecast errors decreased substantially, particularly in coastal and shelf regions.
‘Floating University’ sets sail again
A team of 14 West African Master's students, accompanied by experienced scientists, will conduct research at depths of up to 4,900 meters on the POLARSTERN research vessel. The 'Floating University' program aims to document long-term changes in the ocean and investigate marine biodiversity.
Novel approach unpicks iron chemistry in the south pacific ocean
A new chemical model developed by researchers at GEOMAR accurately predicts iron chemistry in the South Pacific Ocean, taking into account diverse organic matter properties. The findings improve understanding of the marine iron cycle and its implications for climate change.
New peer-reviewed study: Bottom trawling in Europe’s waters costs society up to €16 billion annually — mostly due to climate impacts
A new peer-reviewed study finds that bottom trawling in European waters results in significant economic losses, with annual costs reaching up to €16 billion. The destructive fishing practice is also found to be a major contributor to climate change, with its impacts felt throughout the region's marine ecosystems.
Tire and rubber chemicals leave decades-long contamination record in Lake sediments
Researchers discovered high concentrations of tire- and rubber-related chemicals in Lake Sihwa sediments, with patterns reflecting changes in industrial activity and pollution control measures. The study provides a baseline for sediment concentrations, enabling understanding of future trends and potential risks to aquatic organisms.
Floatable, biodegradable composite beads show promise for large-scale oil spill remediation
Researchers have created a novel sorbent made from chitosan/cellulose acetate and bentonite composites that show promise for cleaning up oil spills. The beads are floatable, biodegradable, and environmentally compatible, making them an efficient and cost-effective solution.
Simple ocean-based model forecasts El Niño skillfully, points to a strong event ahead
Researchers have developed a simple yet effective ocean-based model that can predict El Niño and La Niña 15 months in advance using only surface temperature and height observations. The model leverages two core climate memories, Wyrtki memory and Hasselmann memory, to achieve forecast skill comparable to more complex models.
New publication about the influence of Southern Hemisphere waters on the Indonesian Throughflow
A new study finds that water masses from the Southern Hemisphere have been a major contributor to the Indonesian Throughflow for over 800,000 years. The researchers measured nitrogen isotopes in sediment cores and found a remarkable long-term stability of the nitrogen cycle along the equatorial Pacific.
Warm-bodied sharks and tunas face “double jeopardy” in warming seas – new research
Research reveals warm-bodied fish like sharks and tunas burn nearly four times more energy than cold-blooded counterparts, exacerbating the impact of warming oceans. As a result, these species are facing an increasing risk of overheating and habitat loss.
Ocean eddies are amplifying climate extremes in coastal seas, study finds
Intensifying ocean eddies are amplifying climate extremes in key coastal ecosystems by redistributing heat and nutrients. This process enhances productivity in some areas while trapping heat closer to the surface, leading to rapid warming and altered regional weather patterns.
Tiny green pigment provides insights into how successive typhoons drive cumulative water, ecosystem changes
Researchers found that successive typhoons drive cumulative changes in chlorophyll a density, affecting ecosystem productivity. The study provides insights into forecasting variations in estuarine ecosystems during typhoon events.
Waves hit different on other planets
Scientists at MIT have developed a new wave model called PlanetWaves that predicts how waves will behave on planetary bodies with different liquids, atmospheres, and gravity. The model reveals that gentle winds can create massive waves on Titan, while hurricane-force winds barely move the surface of lakes on exoplanet 55-Cancri e.
Longer-term plankton species diversity is independent of ocean mixing
Researchers used a cabled marine observatory to study plankton abundance and variety over a four-year period. They found that long-term changes in aggregate abundance and plankton diversity were not influenced by ocean turbulence.
New AI approach reveals ocean currents in unprecedented detail
A new method called GOFLOW uses deep learning to measure ocean surface currents over large areas with greater detail than ever before. The approach applies to thermal images from weather satellites, requiring no new hardware.
Exaggeration of real ocean climate risks to ireland disrupts future planning, says Maynooth University oceanographer
A Maynooth University oceanographer warns that exaggerated claims of ocean climate risks to Ireland disrupt future planning. The real risks lie in changes to the Atlantic currents that sustain Ireland's mild climate, including precipitation patterns and storminess.
Sinking land drives coastal flood risk on densely populated Java Island
A new study reveals that subsidence is a major driver of coastal flooding along Java Island, with rates of up to 15 centimeters per year. Groundwater withdrawal and agricultural water use are identified as key culprits, highlighting the need for active monitoring and mitigation.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and Scripps Institution of Oceanography partner for innovative conservation efforts
The partnership aims to boost conservation impact by harnessing advanced digital technology and biobanking techniques, focusing on three core areas: knowledge transfer, innovation, and student engagement. This collaboration seeks to address pressing environmental challenges such as biodiversity threats and emerging pathogens.
New study reveals hidden ocean chemistry
A new approach detects subtle chemical signatures in seawater, revealing dynamic nitrogen cycling in low-oxygen regions. This discovery sheds light on microbial communities controlling ocean productivity and the global carbon cycle.
How can science support and enable the High Seas Treaty?
A new study provides a solutions-focused pathway to implementing the High Seas Treaty, highlighting the need for enhanced data resources and sharing. The researchers identify major scientific and technical developments that can help address challenges in biodiversity monitoring and connectivity between areas.
Ocean discovery league launches global strategy to double deep seafloor observations
The Ocean Discovery League has announced a global strategy to visually explore 10,000 strategically selected locations across the deep seafloor. By achieving this ambitious goal, scientists will unlock new discoveries about biodiversity, ecosystem function, and environmental change.
Climate change may produce “fast-food” phytoplankton
A new study suggests that climate change will shift the balance of macromolecules in phytoplankton from proteins to carbohydrates and lipids, with a 20% increase expected by 2100. This could lead to an unbalanced diet for marine life, with implications for ocean health and human consumption.
The ‘thermal hustle’: FIU researchers track how great hammerhead sharks outsmart ocean temperature swings
Researchers tracked movement, acceleration, depth, and water temperature for nine hammerheads in Florida and the Bahamas waters. They found great hammerheads can effectively hunt fast-moving prey like blacktip sharks in winter and tarpon in summer, suggesting they may tolerate changing climates better than other species.
HKU Swire Institute of Marine Science launches youth program to cultivate future ocean stewards
The programme aims to nurture youth engagement in marine conservation and strengthen Hong Kong's environmental stewardship by providing hands-on training and empowering students as the next generation of ocean stewards. Students gain experience with advanced research techniques and build leadership and advocacy skills.
Study explains Antarctic sea ice growth and sudden decline
A new study by Stanford University reveals that Antarctic sea ice extent grew for decades until 2016, when it declined abruptly due to the release of accumulated ocean heat. The researchers used data from autonomous floats in the global Argo array to analyze the relationship between wind-driven upwelling and sea ice variability.
SWOT satellite reveals hidden tsunami signals linked to near trench processes of the Kamchatka earthquake
New research uses SWOT satellite data to detect two-dimensional tsunami wave patterns near the earthquake's source, offering critical insight for coastal risk evaluation. The study found that trailing tsunami waves are linked to an earthquake rupture occurring less than 10 kilometers beneath the trench.
Satellite captures origins of 2025 Kamchatka tsunami
Researchers analyzed satellite data from the NASA/CNES Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) satellite to study the 2025 Kamchatka earthquake and resulting Pacific-spanning tsunami. The findings reveal that the tsunami was generated within 10 kilometers of the subduction-zone trench, providing new insights into tsunamigenesis.
Bioluminescent bacterial partner essential for squid development
A recent study found that Vibrio fischeri bacteria are essential for the healthy development of Hawaiian bobtail squid. The bacteria produce a protein called SypC, which prompts the development of the squid's light-organ. Without SypC, developmental disruptions occur, highlighting the crucial communication between bacteria and host.
Biodiversity Boost: 24 new deep-sea species discovered in major Pacific research
Researchers have announced the discovery of 24 new deep-sea amphipod species from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone in the central Pacific Ocean. The discoveries, part of an open-access special issue, provide fundamental knowledge of species and their distributions.
African coastlines face unprecedented sea level surge crisis
The study found that the 2023-2024 El Niño event triggered record-breaking sea level surges in Africa, with acceleration outpacing the global average. This unprecedented crisis threatens over 15 million coastal residents with flooding, land subsidence, and extreme weather.
Island Scholarship launched
The Island Scholarship programme aims to draw more talent to Orkney, supporting population retention and attraction on Scottish islands. Fifteen postgraduate students will have their fees paid in full for specialist MSc courses, with applications now open.
Scientists listen in to determine coral reef health
Researchers from Xiamen University have developed a new method to measure coral reef photosynthesis using passive acoustic technology. The study found that the rate of oxygen bubble formation varies systematically with seasons and environmental conditions, providing a way to track reef health and productivity. This non-invasive approac...
New analysis shows continued loss of Arctic landfast sea ice
Landfast sea ice is sticking to Alaska's northern coast for less time each year, according to 27 years of data analyzed by University of Alaska Fairbanks scientists. The Chukchi and Beaufort seas have seen a decline in landfast sea ice coverage, with the extent of Beaufort Sea landfast sea ice decreasing by 39 days over the past 9 years.
Ocean bacteria team up to break down biodegradable plastic
Researchers discovered 30 bacterial species that break down biodegradable plastic, revealing speed and factors influencing degradation. The study highlights the importance of understanding microbial communities and plastic chemistry in plastic biodegradation.
New study finds deep ocean microbes already prepared to tackle climate change
A new study reveals that deep-sea microbes like Nitrosopumilus maritimus can adapt to warmer, nutrient-poor waters, maintaining their role in nitrogen cycling and primary production. This finding suggests that these microbes may play an important role in reshaping ocean-nutrient distribution in a changing climate.
In the ocean’s marine ‘snow,’ a scientist seeks clues to future climate
A Rutgers researcher finds bacteria accelerate calcium carbonate dissolution in shallow seas, potentially slowing carbon sequestration and influencing climate change. The discovery sheds light on the ocean's biological carbon pump and its future implications.
Understanding how “marine snow” acts as a carbon sink
A new study finds hitchhiking bacteria dissolve essential ballast in ubiquitous
New study reveals asynchronous land–ocean responses to ancient ocean anoxia
A recent study has precisely dated the end of a geomagnetic field reversal, revealing asynchronous land–ocean responses to ancient ocean anoxia. The findings provide new insights into Early Cretaceous geodynamics and the evolution of marine and terrestrial carbon cycles.
Fund for Science and Technology awards $15 million to Scripps Oceanography
The grant will support environmental DNA surveys, expanded deep ocean monitoring, and glacier research. Scripps researchers will use new tools to collect crucial baseline data on marine organisms and bring new insights to parts of the ocean with little coverage.
FAU Harbor Branch awarded $900,000 for Gulf of America sea-level research
The FAU project will integrate high-resolution modeling, observational data, and advanced machine learning to improve understanding of regional sea-level variability in the Gulf of America. The team aims to produce decision-relevant scenario outputs and empower stakeholders with actionable information for future-oriented decisions.
Improved short-term sea level change predictions with better AI training
Researchers developed a new AI-based SLA forecasting model that outperforms existing approaches and can be widely applied to other prediction tasks. The Multistep-Earthformer model achieves high-accuracy short- and medium-range sea level anomaly forecasting by optimizing training strategies.
Will melting glaciers slow climate change? A prevailing theory is on shaky ground
Researchers from Rutgers University found that melting glaciers in Antarctica supply far less iron to surrounding waters than previously thought. The study challenges the long-held theory of iron fertilization, which suggested that glacial melting would feed blooms of microscopic algae and remove heat-trapping carbon dioxide from the a...
Climate change in the past: first indicators of resilience in tropical life, provided that global warming did not exceed 1.5 degrees
A recent study found that tropical algae were largely unaffected by periods of global warming up to 1.5 degrees Celsius in the distant past. This resilience provides valuable insights into the potential consequences of climate change and supports the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees.
Early-summer Arctic ice melt impacts late-summer Indian monsoon rainfall
Researchers found a strong inverse correlation between Arctic sea ice extent and Indian summer monsoon rainfall on interannual timescales. Decreased Arctic sea ice variability during June to July leads to increased rainfall over western and northwestern India, indicating a westward shift in the monsoon season.
Cal Poly’s fifth Climate Solutions Now conference to take place Feb. 23-27
The all-virtual Cal Poly Climate Solutions Now conference will address a wide range of climate topics, including energy, water, waste, business sustainability, agriculture, education, and more. Presenters from various industries will share strategies, tools, and information to help mitigate climate change.
SeaCast revolutionizes Mediterranean Sea forecasting with AI-powered speed and accuracy
SeaCast consistently outperforms the Copernicus operational model over a 10-day forecast horizon and extends predictions to 15 days, generating forecasts in just 20 seconds using a single GPU. This advancement enables rapid 'what-if' scenario testing and probabilistic ensemble forecasts.
New knowledge about Northern Europe's radiator: Volcanic eruptions in the past may have pushed ocean current towards collapse
New research from the University of Copenhagen suggests that volcanic eruptions during the Ice Age may have disrupted the AMOC, threatening Denmark's climate. The study shows that extreme volcanic eruptions can throw the climate system out of balance and push the AMOC into a weakened or collapsed state.
Look again! Those wrinkly rocks may actually be a fossilized microbial community
Researchers propose a new explanation for wrinkly textures in rocks, suggesting that microbes lived in deepwater environments and used chemosynthetic energy. This finding could lead to a reevaluation of fossil records and the classification of ancient formations.
New record of Great White Shark in Spain sparks a 160-year review
A juvenile great white shark was incidentally caught in Spanish waters, raising questions about the species' biology and ecology. The study confirms continued, though sporadic, presence of white sharks in Mediterranean waters.
Tooling up to diagnose ocean health
A field-deployable CRISPR-based biosensing platform has been developed for rapid, on-site monitoring of marine species and ecosystems, offering a sustainable solution for tracking ocean health. The technology has the potential to detect critical species, predict outbreaks, and support early warning systems for ecosystem disruptions.
Extensive freshened water beneath the ocean floor confirmed for the first time
An international team has successfully documented and sampled freshened water within a zone nearly 200 metres thick beneath the ocean floor. This discovery sheds light on offshore freshened groundwater systems and their relevance to coastal communities relying on groundwater for freshwater supply.
Unexpected feedback in the climate system
Researchers found a surprising correlation between West Antarctic Ice Sheet retreat and marine algae growth over the past 500,000 years. The study suggests that global warming may lead to reduced CO2 uptake if the ice sheet continues to shrink.
The “Grand Canyon” of the Atlantic
A team of scientists discovered the King's Trough Complex, a colossal submarine canyon off Portugal's coast, formed by tectonic processes and hot mantle material. The structure extends over 500 kilometers, with Peake Deep as one of the deepest points in the Atlantic Ocean.