Archiwa Ocean - Page 3 of 4

The Chinese Distant-Water Fleet in the Southwestern Indian Ocean

The latest report from the Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF) reveals alarming practices by the Chinese distant-water fleet in the southwestern Indian Ocean, involving illegal fishing and human rights abuses. This region, rich in yellowfin tuna and bonito, is becoming a battleground for the protection of these valuable marine resources. Based on crew testimonies, the report paints a grim picture of activities including brutal practices such as shark finning and the exploitation of crews, which undermines Chinese assurances of zero tolerance for illegal fishing.

Effectiveness of Marine Protected Areas (MPA)

Recent research sheds new light on the effectiveness of Marine Protected Areas (MPA), which cover 90% of the global surface of protected marine zones. The analysis showed that only one third of these areas offer a level of protection that can bring real benefits to nature. Unfortunately, a significant portion of the MPAs permits industrial activity, which threatens biodiversity. Can these valuable ecosystems still be saved?

X Trillion – a women’s expedition

While Sally Earthrowl, a geography teacher, was sailing through the North Pacific Gyre, she encountered surprising amounts of plastic waste floating in the ocean. The X Trillion expedition, led by a group of environmentally conscious women, aimed to document and understand the scale of plastic pollution in the oceans. The film “X Trillion,” which showcases this journey, highlights the toxic impact of microplastics and the role of women in solving global environmental issues.

The diving secret of orcas

New research published in the journal PLOS ONE reveals that orcas breathe only once between dives, shedding new light on their biology and behavior. These findings allow scientists to more accurately estimate the oxygen needs and daily diet of these majestic mammals. Understanding these aspects is crucial for the protection of endangered orca populations.

British coral reefs

Coral reefs are often associated with warm, exotic locations, but did you know they also exist in the colder waters around Great Britain? Scientists are working on innovative methods to adapt corals to the changing climate conditions of the seas and oceans, which may help them survive rising temperatures. One interesting discovery is “coral memory,” which might assist reefs in better adapting to new environmental conditions.

GTA’s commitment to Yellowfin Tuna protection

The Global Tuna Alliance (GTA) took critical action at the Indian Ocean Tuna Committee meeting in Bangkok, aiming for a drastic reduction in yellowfin tuna catches. The “Go Fish Less: Yellowfin Edition” campaign was introduced as an innovative tool to highlight the need for sustainable fishing practices. These efforts are crucial for the future of tuna resources and marine ecosystems in the region.

The origin and evolution of bioluminescence

Bioluminescence, or the ability of organisms to glow in the dark, fascinates scientists around the world who delve into its mysteries, trying to understand its origins and evolution. Recent research by an international team of scientists has provided evidence that bioluminescence may date back 540 million years, indicating it appeared much earlier than previously thought. Scientists discovered that bioluminescence may have originally evolved as a mechanism to protect cells from excess oxygen, which was crucial for the survival of organisms in harsh environmental conditions.

Searching for living fossils

Discover the extraordinary journey of Laurent Ballesta, a photographer and marine biologist who dives into the deepest corners of the oceans to document the life of coelacanths, fish once thought to be extinct. His expeditions shed light on the evolution and survival of “living fossils,” while also raising awareness about the need to protect deep-sea ecosystems from the threats of the modern world.

Deep-sea mining threatens life on the ocean floor

Deep-sea mining, recently legalized in Norway, poses a grave threat to marine life residing at the deepest ocean layers, as suggested by recent scientific studies. During the extraction process, metal particle clouds are released, significantly impacting species such as sponges and starfish, leading to substantial tissue death and organism loss. With global regulations yet to be established, there’s an urgent need for comprehensive research to fully understand the environmental implications of these activities on ocean ecosystems.

Restoration of oyster reefs in Australia

After over a century of flat oyster reefs being extinct along the Adelaide coastline in Australia, they have been successfully restored, bringing hope for the future of marine ecosystems. Research by scientists from the University of Adelaide showed that the ecological recovery happened within just two and a half years of building the reef. Dr. Dominic McAfee emphasizes that this success proves that even highly degraded marine systems can quickly regenerate through effective restoration efforts.