Latest news with #marineLife
CBS News
16-07-2025
- Science
- CBS News
Experimental tiles bring life to seawall along San Francisco's Embarcacero
Along San Francisco's Embarcadero, a groundbreaking experiment is revealing promising results. At the aging seawall, during low tide, a diver with the Port of San Francisco carefully removed nine experimental tiles early Monday. Three years ago, port technicians installed them on the seawall, and into bay waters. Now, after two years of monitoring, the tiles were slowly hoisted up, placed into protective bags, and into the hands of scientists from the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, or SERC for short. Each tile has become a thriving new community – packed with marine life. "Even in the midst of the city with all its hard structures, that marine life still finds habitat, and we're just trying to enhance that," Jeffrey Blumenthal, a biological sciences technician with the SERC, said as he inspected one of the tiles. The tiles are part of a special collaboration between the Port and SERC known as the Living Seawall pilot project. Tiles have special textured surfaces that are intended to promote biodiversity and support native species. "Living seawalls are this idea of how we still protect and provide the needs of shoreline defense that a seawall does but how can we add some habitat value to it," said Corryn Knapp, a scientist at the Smithsonian. San Francisco's rock and concrete seawall was built more than 150 years ago. Experts warn that It's deteriorating and at risk. "The seawall is one big continuous pieces of infrastructure, that's sitting on young bay mud but it's sitting on young bay mud, and squishy soils and in an earthquake, it may likely move bay ward. The other risk, of course, is sea level rise," said Elaine Forbes, executive director of the Port of San Francisco. The Embarcadero already gets flooded during king tides. Global warming is projected to cause sea levels around the bay to rise between three and six feet, perhaps even more, by the end of the century. "We need to fortify our seawall and our line of defense," said Forbes. One line of defense would be to boost the bay's biodiversity. Climate and marine scientists explain how the more species living in the bay, the more resilient and healthier the waters will be, as the planet continues to warm. As for the tiles, early results show they do indeed promote biodiversity and support native species. From Olympia oysters to seaweed and crabs, scientists have detected 10 different native species living on the tiles.
Sustainability Times
12-07-2025
- Science
- Sustainability Times
'These Eggs Shouldn't Exist': Shaken Scientists Confront Nightmarish Discovery as Underwater Volcano Exposes Thousands of Giant Living Spheres Hidden in the Abyss
IN A NUTSHELL 🌋 Scientists discovered thousands of giant eggs belonging to the elusive Pacific white skate within an active underwater volcano near Vancouver Island. within an active underwater volcano near Vancouver Island. 🔍 The volcanic warmth acts as a natural incubator, accelerating the four-year gestation period of these eggs, highlighting the interplay between geological and biological processes. period of these eggs, highlighting the interplay between geological and biological processes. 🐟 The Pacific white skate, known for its adaptation to deep-sea conditions, can grow up to 6.5 feet long, thriving in the cold waters of the Pacific. long, thriving in the cold waters of the Pacific. 🌿 This finding emphasizes the importance of volcanic habitats in marine life cycles and raises awareness about the need for conservation of these unique ecosystems. The depths of the ocean continue to mesmerize scientists and adventurers alike. Off the coast of Vancouver Island, Canada, a recent discovery has captured the imagination of marine researchers worldwide. An active underwater volcano has revealed thousands of giant eggs belonging to the enigmatic Pacific white skate. These 'mermaid's purses' provide a rare glimpse into the complex ecosystems that flourish in the harsh conditions of the ocean's abyss. As researchers delve deeper into this breathtaking discovery, they are uncovering insights that could revolutionize our understanding of marine biodiversity and the intricate life cycles of deep-sea organisms. The Astonishing Revelation of an Active Underwater Volcano The underwater volcano near Vancouver Island, long believed to be dormant, dramatically resurfaced during a 2019 expedition led by marine biologist Cherisse Du Preez. Rising approximately 3,600 feet from the ocean floor, this seamount is situated about 0.93 to 0.99 miles beneath the sea surface. The expedition unveiled a vibrant marine ecosystem fostered by the warm, mineral-rich waters emitted by the volcano. These geothermal conditions play a vital role in the development of the giant eggs, which measure 18 to 20 inches in width and require a lengthy gestation period of four years. The volcanic warmth acts as a natural incubator, hastening the development of young Pacific white skates and giving them a head start in life. This phenomenon exemplifies the intricate interplay between geological and biological processes under the sea, underscoring how geological features such as underwater volcanoes can significantly influence marine life cycles. The revelation of these eggs in such an unexpected environment highlights the potential for many more hidden wonders within our oceans. 'We're Entering the Mach 5 Era': US Military's SR-72 Hypersonic Jet Set to Shatter Speed Limits With 2025 Debut Unique Traits of the Pacific White Skate The Pacific white skate, scientifically known as Bathyraja spinosissima, thrives in the cold Pacific waters at depths ranging from 2,600 to 9,500 feet. Females of this species lay large eggs, investing substantial energy to provide essential nutrients for their offspring, a phenomenon known as marine gigantism. Adult skates can reach lengths of up to 6.5 feet, showcasing their adaptation to the deep ocean's adverse conditions. The warmth from the volcano's shallower summit creates an ideal habitat, described by Cherisse Du Preez as 'almost a coral garden and a safe nursery for juveniles before they descend into the deep.' This environment underscores the crucial role volcanic habitats play in the early life stages of skates. A similar occurrence was recorded in 2018 near the Galápagos Islands, where eggs over 4 inches were found near hydrothermal vents, suggesting that volcanic heat is a common resource for various marine species during incubation. 'Plastic Is Invading Your Brain!': Explosive Global Study Links Shocking Microplastic Levels Directly to Skyrocketing Dementia and Memory Collapse Implications for Marine Research and Biodiversity The discovery of this active underwater volcano and its role as a natural nursery offers new insights into the complexity of marine ecosystems. The geothermal warmth supports a unique biodiversity, providing scientists with an opportunity to study how such environments affect marine life development. The presence of these giant eggs in an active volcano suggests that underwater volcanic activity may play a more significant role in marine life cycles than previously understood. In 2023, a follow-up expedition observed a Pacific white skate laying an egg at the Canadian site, offering more information on the reproductive behaviors of this mysterious species. Evidence also indicates that multiple species utilize this unique site as a natural nursery, highlighting the broader ecological significance of these volcanic habitats. Such findings emphasize the need to explore and protect these critical environments, which are integral to the ocean's health. 'They Just Rewrote the Future!': FAMU's Mind-Blowing 3D Printing Revolution Sends Shockwaves Through NASA and Could Launch Humanity Into Deep Space The Future of Oceanic Exploration and Conservation Understanding the intricate dynamics of these underwater ecosystems is essential for marine conservation efforts. The discovery of the Pacific white skate's breeding ground within an active volcano highlights the need to safeguard these fragile environments. As climate change continues to impact ocean temperatures and ecosystems, preserving these unique habitats becomes even more critical. Researchers and conservationists must work together to ensure the sustainability of these ecosystems, which serve as vital sanctuaries for marine life. Future explorations may uncover even more hidden secrets of the deep, challenging us to rethink our relationship with the ocean. What other mysteries lie beneath the waves, waiting to be discovered? This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies. Did you like it? 4.5/5 (20)
The Guardian
12-07-2025
- Science
- The Guardian
Country diary: Enter dolphins, stage left, ripping apart the limpid sea
Eventide, and calm waters were slowly departing the warm sands of a small Ynys Môn (Anglesey) bay. The dark igneous rocks that bound the bay had retained some midsummer heat, providing a comfortable vantage point to enjoy the sunset. In the shallows, a lone spectator watched the deep pink of the sea. My eyes followed hers and landed on two grey seals, their heads implanted in the iridescent waters. They watched, we watched, then they lazily slipped below, hardly a ripple raised. Enter the Risso's dolphins. A pod of four surfaced stage left, injecting the scene with breathtaking energy; their stout, torpedo-shaped, pale grey bodies surging forth, tall dark dorsal fins ripping the limpid sea apart. One after another, they breached clear of the water, their power and scale full blown, heightened by the intimacy of the bay. A thrilling display – but also, scientifically, a purposeful, non-verbal signal of their intrinsic fitness to potential mates and competitors. In midsummer, Risso's migrate from the pelagic deeps into the relatively shallow shelf waters of the Celtic Sea, perhaps providing more opportunities for social interactions. Within moments it seemed the pod had motored beyond the compass of the bay, leaving its waters calm again. You might care to imagine, however, to what degree those leaps of nature perturbed the ocean, and briefly brought additional wavelets to the shore, swashing the sand in pearly, tingly froth and the sound of shell upon shell. Dolphin energy bathing the spectator's feet and sounding the maritime air with echoes of sea creatures. The spectator and I wandered home across the dunes. In the half light, the parabolas of marram grass loomed large. In the slacks, a midsummer night's dream: thousands of marsh helleborines, their pale pink and cream blooms waxing in the waning light, their frilly lips as light as tissue. Research has demonstrated that helleborine flowers attract diurnal pollinators – solitary wasps, bumblebees, hoverflies – in part due to aromatics in their nectar, such as vanillin. But few if any researchers appear to have wandered these dunes at night in search of nocturnal pollinators such as moths – they should; it might help unlock some of the remaining mysteries of pollination. Under the Changing Skies: The Best of the Guardian's Country Diary, 2018-2024 is published by Guardian Faber; order at and get a 15% discount
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Aussies urged to head to beach to hunt for 'butterflies of the sea'
Aussies are being encouraged to head down to their local rock pool this weekend to look for incredibly diverse sea slugs. The tiny marine creatures are so bright and colourful they even inspired one of the world's most iconic musicians. Sea slugs are found throughout Australia, but this weekend, authorities are calling on Victorians to find and document them in the name of science. There is a wide range of sea slug species, and understanding where they are distributed and what environments they can thrive in gives scientists an insight into the impact of increasing ocean temperatures. "It is helping science and our understanding of these species, their distributions, their movement, and how it's all being impacted by climate change," said Kade Mills, the ReefWatch Coordinator from the Victorian National Parks Association. "And work is now beginning to look at whether they are going to be indicators of disturbance and pressures from things other than climate change." 👨 Fisherman's incredible catch set to 'feed whole family' for months 😲 Woman captures 'strange' encounter in shallows at beach 🎣 Fishermen catch fish 'rarely seen' in Aussie waters Aussies are being asked to head to shallow waters at low tide to spot the sea slugs. If one is found, simply snapping a picture and sharing it on the iNaturalist app will go a long way in helping further research. "Rock pooling is probably one of the easiest and most successful ways for people to find them," Kade explained. The rockpools in San Remo, a coastal town in southern Victoria, are of particular interest as the area is a renowned hot spot for sea slugs in the state. Kade told Yahoo News sea slugs come in "every colour of the rainbow" and continue to inspire artists around the world, thanks to their vibrancy and impressive patterns. Rock god David Bowie himself was inspired by sea slugs, with an entire blog dedicated to documenting all the times his fashion appeared to mimic that of a sea slug species. The slugs are often dubbed the "butterflies of the sea", and most are harmless to humans, with only a few causing skin irritation if skin contact is made. Hunting for them this weekend will not only help scientists, but the initiative also aims to make those involved feel good. "It's a way to get people out and connected with nature in a slow, meaningful way, and to sort of look at the world that we often overlook," Kade said. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@ You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
Yahoo
07-07-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Fisherman's sad admission highlights growing Aussie problem
An Aussie angler has made a difficult admission: he hasn't caught a single squid since April. Nathan Eatts, a sixth-generation commercial fisherman, is increasingly worried he'll be the last in his family to carry on the trade, because a toxic algal bloom is killing all the fish in waters around Adelaide. 'Fishing is all I've ever done, since I could walk. My dad was a commercial fisherman and he used to take me out as a kid. My grandpa and uncle did the same. It's in our blood,' the 32-year-old told Yahoo News. A perfect storm has killed sharks, rays and other marine life across the Southern Fleurieu Peninsula where he's traditionally fished, and the squid have disappeared. The outbreak is being caused by naturally occurring Karenia mikimotoi algae mixed with higher than average nutrients in the sea, increased ocean temperatures, and calm weather. It had been hoped that cooler weather during winter would break up the bloom, but instead it's continued to spread. The problem is occurring right across the Fleurieu and Yorke Peninsulas, Kangaroo Island, and this week it's been detected on metropolitan beaches and West Lakes in Adelaide's north. Nathan is in a similar situation to farmers during the Millenium Drought which crippled agriculture across large parts of NSW and Queensland last decade. He's just trying to keep busy and carry on the only trade he knows. 'There are some species we can target like whiting, but we'll only get a dozen or so, which is not enough to make a living off,' he said. 'When it's a nice day and it's calm I go fishing. If we do catch a few that's good, and if we don't it's just like every other day. Worst case, I've got just enough for my own dinner.' What Nathan wants now is to be part of the solution. He wants to know if all of the squid have died, or if they've migrated elsewhere. "It's like a massive bushfire but it's under the ocean and we can't see the full scale of it," he said. He's not the only one wanting to help. Fisherman are normally secretive about their catch, but now they're sharing intelligence with each other out of care for the industry. Shark's worrying behaviour near Aussie coastline signals 'never seen' crisis Fisherman shocked by 'unfathomable' scene at Aussie beaches Investigation launched after rarely-seen shark washes up on Aussie beach As the situation continues, there are growing calls for it to be declared a national disaster. Part of the reason is that bills are stacking up, and that's an issue Nathan is experiencing as well. 'We have very high costs in our industry. I personally just got a $13,000 yearly bill from fisheries, but if I can't catch any fish how am I supposed to pay it?' he said. 'It's quite stressful, I've got a mortgage too.' But the bigger issue for him is the environmental toll it's taking on the ocean he loves. 'A healthy marine ecosystem means a healthy, viable business. Sustainability is one of my key values, and it's why my family has been able to fish for six generations,' Nathan said. 'We don't use nets, everything we do is line caught. We're all about promoting longevity.' Prior to the algal bloom, Nathan would catch between 20 and 30kg of squid on an average day. But after a four-day storm over Easter, the oceans died. The last squid he caught was on Good Friday. 'All of a sudden we couldn't catch a single thing. The water was all green. It was clear something was wrong,' he said. Being a smart businessman, Nathan had prepared for a rainy day, and had a freezer full of filleted reserve stocks. But after months without a catch, he's close to running out of supply. 'There's no way of replenishing it. I'm not worried about right now, it's where we're going to be in three or four months time,' he said. 'That's when it's going to hit home for a lot of people. When bad things happen it's always down the track a little bit when the real pain starts.' Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? 🐊🦘😳 Get our new newsletter showcasing the week's best stories.
