Articles tagged with Oceans
Researchers uncover valuable insights into past climate scenarios and marine ecosystems through ancient sediment cores. The study highlights the need for more data to improve future climate models and transform our understanding of Earth's complex life systems.
A global research project tracked over 100 marine megafauna species, identifying critical locations for better marine conservation efforts. The study's comprehensive data sets on marine mammal movements and behaviors will aid in the expansion of current marine protection areas.
A study found that a record-smashing North Atlantic marine heatwave in 2023 was caused by record-breaking weak winds combined with increased solar radiation. The warming waters radiated heat back into the atmosphere, triggering deadly heatwaves across Europe and intensifying hurricanes.
Antje Boetius joins MBARI as president and CEO, expanding collaborations globally to advance marine science and engineering. She succeeds Chris Scholin, who will focus on further advances with the Environmental Sample Processor (ESP) instrument.
New research from the University of Sydney reveals that while sea levels can rise without devastating the reef, environmental stressors like poor water quality and warming climates are a greater threat to its survival. The study suggests the modern Great Barrier Reef may undergo significant changes in the next 50-100 years.
The global ocean has experienced a significant reduction in the depth of its photic zones, home to 90% of all marine life, leading to widespread ocean darkening. This change could have profound implications for the planet's marine species and ecosystem services.
The University of Oldenburg has secured funding for three research clusters: Hearing4all, Ocean Floor, and NaviSense. These clusters aim to improve hearing loss prediction, diagnosis, and treatment, as well as animal navigation research. The funding enables the continuation of high-quality research with social relevance.
A recent study found that fully protected marine areas in Brazil are contaminated by microplastics, with an average concentration of 0.42 particles per gram of wet tissue. The contamination was detected in all ten integral protection areas studied, with the highest levels found in the Alcatrazes Archipelago Wildlife Refuge.
Researchers have developed an image-analysis tool called SeaSplat that cuts through the ocean's optical effects and generates images of underwater environments with accurate colors. The team paired SeaSplat with a computational model to convert images into three-dimensional underwater worlds, allowing for virtual exploration.
The São Paulo School of Advanced Science on Ocean Literacy is open to graduate students, postdoctoral researchers and professionals interested in ocean science and sustainability. The school will bring together experts and participants for a transdisciplinary discussion on the UN Ocean Decade's Vision 2030 ambitions.
A groundbreaking study estimates that only a minuscule fraction of the deep seafloor has been imaged, with less than 0.001% of the ocean floor having visual records. This limited exploration is largely due to high costs and geographical bias in ocean exploration efforts.
New study models spatial patterns of grazing halos around coral reefs and finds that halo patterns can signal reef resilience. The research suggests that stable halos exist where herbivores are limited by predators, while oscillating halos may indicate a shift in system health.
A new study published in Environmental Pollution found that plastic ingested by northern fulmars can leak chemicals that interfere with the birds' hormone systems. The chemicals, such as BPA and phthalates, can impair fertility, development, and behavior, posing a significant threat to species survival.
The proposed elimination of NOAA Research would drastically undercut the scientific backbone needed for accurate weather forecasts and services. Key stakeholders like the American Meteorological Society and National Weather Association urge action to maintain competitiveness in weather forecasting.
A study found that microorganisms using the reductive tricarboxylic acid cycle dominate in shallow-water hydrothermal systems. This energy-efficient process enables them to transfer carbon into organic molecules, allowing them to survive in harsh conditions.
A team on board R/V Falkor has captured the first confirmed footage of a colossal squid in its environment, revealing a rare glimpse into the lives of these massive creatures. The baby squid is estimated to be around 2 meters long and weighs over 20 kilograms.
A study published in Ocean and Coastal Management reveals that artisanal fishers can be almost as accurate as satellites in producing environmental data. The researchers mapped seagrass beds along the coastlines of five Greek islands, with fishermen's maps showing an average accuracy of 78%, compared to 11% more than government policies.
A GEOMAR study detects high levels of munitions chemicals in Baltic Sea water samples, with concentrations approaching critical levels. The contamination is expected to increase without removal action, posing a long-term environmental risk.
A Chinese rover has detected underground beach deposits on Mars, indicating the presence of an ancient sea that covered a significant portion of the planet. The deposits, which date back 4 billion years, were formed through wave action and sediment distribution, suggesting a long-lived body of water.
A Chinese rover has discovered underground beach deposits in an area thought to have once been the site of an ancient sea on Mars. The deposits, which are similar to those found on Earth, suggest that Mars had a long-lived body of water with wave action to distribute sediments along a sloping shoreline.
Global glacier mass loss has increased by 36% since 2000, with 6,542 billion tons lost between 2000 and 2023. This results in an 18 mm annual contribution to global sea-level rise, making glaciers the second-largest contributor after ocean warming.
New study highlights significant gaps in understanding how sunscreens affect marine ecosystems, with chemicals entering the environment through various pathways. Researchers emphasize the need for comprehensive studies to understand the effects of UV filters on marine life and potential risks to human health.
The study highlights the potential of novel techniques to collect and analyse plankton data more efficiently, filling knowledge gaps and generating complete pictures of plankton dynamics. However, integrating old and new methods is crucial to ensure accurate assessments of marine biodiversity.
Researchers at Stanford University have discovered a genetic twist in cyanobacteria, allowing them to produce two forms of the enzyme RuBisCo, which could enhance carbon storage. This adaptation may play a crucial role in ocean carbon sequestration and has potential implications for more efficient crop production.
Scientists have developed a groundbreaking method to align satellite ocean color data across various satellites, enabling the generation of reliable, global-scale, long-term bio-optical properties of the upper ocean. This 'big data' will aid in assessing marine ecosystem status and climate-related dynamics.
When two tropical cyclones collide in the Indian Ocean, they can intensify considerably, leading to extreme interactions between the ocean and atmosphere. The study found that effects occurred that have only been observed with much stronger cyclones, including a cooling effect of three degrees Celsius and upwelling of deep water masses.
The Antarctic Canyon Experiment (ACE) aims to assess the causes and effects of turbidity currents, also known as underwater avalanches, in the Southern Ocean. Researchers hope to develop a better understanding of Antarctica's role in regulating Earth's climate and mitigating carbon emissions.
Researchers at University of Liverpool develop new method to measure ocean memory, revealing the North Atlantic Ocean has a nearly two-decade memory. This surpasses previous estimates and highlights the importance of ocean circulation in climate system predictability.
A new study highlights the pressures human activities place on tropical marine ecosystems, with fishing techniques and tourism posing the greatest threat. The research provides insights into the impact of various activities on different habitats, shedding light on how to ensure sustainable management.
Researchers suggest that manatees may have only become a permanent fixture in Florida after Europeans colonization began, contradicting the common assumption of their long history in the state. The study suggests that warming waters and human activities may have encouraged the manatees to stay and breed.
Scientists have identified over 23,000 genes known as auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs) that viruses 'steal' from ocean microbes, affecting 37% of metabolic pathways. The research catalogues these genes, shedding light on the vital role of viruses in nutrient cycling and oxygen production.
Scientists have discovered microscopic marine organisms producing 'parachute-like' mucus structures that slow their sinking, stalling carbon dioxide absorption from the atmosphere. This finding may have overestimated the ocean's carbon sequestration potential, but also paves the way for improving climate models.
Researchers have discovered microplastics in all three parts of coral anatomy, including surface mucus, tissue, and skeleton. This finding may explain the 'missing plastic problem' and suggests that corals could be sequestering plastic waste from the ocean.
A new report by international experts urges a collective approach to tackle plastic pollution, citing over 7,000 research studies on microplastics. The need for global reduction in plastic production and emission of microplastic particles is emphasized to avoid irreversible environmental damage.
A new definition of marine identity has been agreed upon by an international group of researchers, which could help restore society's relationship with the ocean. The concept emphasizes how the ocean supports our sense of self and is rooted in traditions, customs, and dependency on the sea for recreation and livelihoods.
Researchers have analyzed over 43,200 ocean microbial genomes, uncovering a wide range of diversity and new insights into immune system adaptations. The study provides new enzymes that can break down common plastics and antimicrobials to combat antibiotic resistance.
A team of researchers discovered that a 'tag-team' between the oceans and continents led to severe environmental crises, causing mass extinctions of marine species. The study found that chemical weathering pulses disrupted the oceans, leading to anoxic events that had profound impacts on marine ecosystems.
A new study led by Dartmouth researchers questions the rapid polar ice collapse model used in the IPCC's sixth assessment report. The team found that the expected rate of retreat is significantly lower than predicted, making the worst-case scenario less likely, but still dire due to ongoing ice loss from Greenland and Antarctica.
A new study found that microplastics impact plant reproduction, while seawater flooding causes greater tissue death in coastal plants. Combining both stressors amplifies threats to ecosystem wellbeing.
A research team deployed an unmanned submersible to map the underside of a floating ice shelf in Antarctica, revealing high melt rates and unique patterns. The findings raise questions about current models for predicting sea level rise.
Researchers have found that the Southern Ocean absorbs 25% more carbon dioxide than previously estimated. The new study used direct measurements to assess existing flux products in the Southern Ocean.
Weaker ocean circulation may lead to increased carbon dioxide buildup in the atmosphere due to a previously uncharacterized feedback loop involving iron, upwelling nutrients, and ligands. The study challenges current thinking on the ocean's role in storing carbon.
Researchers have demonstrated that satellites can estimate the amount of litter in the sea, highlighting the importance of factors such as population density and geography. The study suggests installing specific plastic detection sensors on satellites to improve monitoring capabilities.
Researchers have identified heavily used shipping lanes that pass through crucial whale shark feeding grounds, posing a threat to this endangered species. Targeted measures, such as reducing ship speed, could help minimize the impact on the shipping industry while protecting whale sharks.
A research team from Southern Methodist University has found evidence of the splitting of South America and Africa in ancient rocks and fossils in Angola. The study provides a clear visual representation of the continents moving apart and the formation of the South Atlantic Ocean, offering insights into Earth's past.
A group of 350 scientists from over 60 countries call for a legally binding global treaty to prohibit the production of hazardous plastics chemicals and adopt science-based approaches. They advocate for an independent scientific body with robust conflict of interest policy and regional representation.
A newly described species of ichthyosaur, named Ichthyotitan severnensis, is believed to be the largest known marine reptile, with estimates suggesting it could have reached up to 82 feet in length. The discovery was made from fossilized jawbone fragments found in Somerset, UK.
Volunteers collected nearly nine tonnes of marine litter from beaches across the Seychelles between 2019 and 2023. The clean-ups, led by the University of Plymouth, demonstrate the potential of citizen science to address marine pollution challenges.
The Global Ocean Artificial Light at Night Network aims to expand on previous research, providing a central resource for marine light pollution expertise. Light pollution poses significant ecological harm, including disruptions to daily rhythms and reproductive cycles of marine species.
New mathematical modelling reveals that the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation has a high degree of complexity, with switches between states potentially leading to major climate changes. The study warns against relying on early warning indicators, as minor transitions might escalate into more significant tipping points.
Research reveals changes in Hawaiian coral reef soundscapes tied to lunar cycles, indicating potential impacts on marine life. The study explores moonlight-driven biological choruses and their effects on reef ecosystems.
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have discovered a new population of killer whales in the Northeastern Pacific, with distinct physical characteristics and a diet that includes marine mammals and sea turtles. The orcas were identified through shark-bitten scars and observations by fishermen and birding enthusiasts.
Hilary Palevsky's research focuses on marine biogeochemistry, and her NSF CAREER Award will support the creation of educational videos to guide students using remote ocean monitoring data. She aims to clarify the mechanisms behind the ocean's biological pump, which plays a crucial role in removing anthropogenic carbon from active cycling.
Researchers observed an individual orca, nicknamed Starboard, killing a 2.5-meter juvenile great white shark within two minutes. The study challenges conventional cooperative hunting behaviors among killer whales, providing new insights into their predatory dynamics and potential impact on marine ecosystems.
Researchers provided first detailed estimates of sediment supply to coral reef islands, crucial for understanding climate change impacts. They found that around 0.1m³ (100kg) of sediment is delivered to islands per year, helping islands withstand rising seas.
Sea cucumbers, known as the 'janitors' of the ocean, have been found to be a missing component in maintaining healthy coral reefs. Their removal due to overfishing has led to an increase in coral disease and a decline in biodiversity.
A new study published in Palaeontologia Electronica shows the Megalodon was more slender than earlier studies suggested, changing our understanding of its behavior and impact on ancient ocean life. The revised model suggests a longer digestive canal, potentially leading to less predation pressure on other marine creatures.
Research details microbial associations in the marine microbiome, exploring ecological interactions among archaea, bacteria, and picoeukaryotes across different depths and regions. The study reveals regional and specific interactions that vary with depth and geographical location.
The METEOR Expedition M197 is a research project studying the Eastern Mediterranean Sea's future changes in response to climate change and human activities. The project investigates nutrient supply, marine ecosystems, and carbon export from surface to deep waters.
The Atlantic Ocean near Bermuda has warmed by 1°C over the past 40 years, with surface temperatures increasing by 0.24°C per decade since the 1980s. The ocean's salinity and oxygen levels have also decreased, leading to increased acidity, which can affect marine life.