News

Researchers have discovered a sensory organ in whales’ mouths that triggers the intense lunging motion whales use when feeding.

The team of scientists from the submersible Alvin recently discovered limpets stuck to the outside of their submersible after completing a dive to study deep-sea vents. They were surprised that the limpets were able to survive the intense change in pressure as they ascended. The team has issued a warning to other deep-sea diving teams, citing the risk it poses to ecosystems when introducing foreign competitors or diseases. Dr. Janet Voight said, "This has implications for the future exploration of hydrothermal vents as it reveals the potential risk of human driven change to the ecosystem." Read more in the EurekAlert article.

Fisherman using destructive explosives around Menjangan Island

May 23 holiday sponsored by American Tortoise Rescue

Project Shoal, in the UK, is currently testing their pollution-detecting robotic fish. The robotic fish look, move, and behave like actual fish, complete with a tail that quietly and efficiently propels them through the water.

The Peruvian Fisheries Minister recently denied claims that the death of the many dolphins washed up on Peruvian shorelines is due to explosives used for oil exploration. Officials have also ruled out viral or bacterial infection and instead claim that the deaths are due to natural causes.

Researchers conducted a limited investigation into foreign farm-raised seafood bought in U.S. grocery stores in Atlanta, Washington DC, Los Angeles, and New York. They found levels of carcinogenic antibiotics far higher than is allowed by the FDA.

A new study published in the journal Nature Geoscience indicates that seagrasses can store up to twice as much carbon as the world’s forests with about 90 percent of the carbon stored in the seagrasses’ roots and soil.

Cirrhilabrus humanni included in new fish reference book

In an attempt to strengthen its coral reefs, Biscayne National Park, in southern Florida, has proposed a 10,522 acre marine reserve where boats and fishing would be off limits. Snorkeling and diving would still be allowed. The proposal has drawn heavy criticism from fishermen and officials.