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Science
10 new sponge species have been discovered in Hawaii.
Did you know that wild fish can recognise humans by their outfits?
Scientists are tracking pregnant sharks to uncover their secret birthing spots while simultaneously identifying a previously unknown deep-sea ecosystem flourishing on the ocean floor at depths of up to 4 kilometres.
Turns out, getting swallowed by a whale is more fairy tale than fact, so Jonah can keep his story, and we can keep swimming (or kayaking) without worry!
Fisheries
UK scientists have described trawl fishing as an ‘economic and climate time bomb.’
The Norwegian fishing industry is voicing concerns over the absence of the 2025 snow crab survey, while scientists are calling for a cod fishing ban in Jan Mayen to protect dwindling stocks and secure the future of this iconic species.
UK Overseas Territories
Squid fishing in the Falkland Islands has been delayed following scientists’ recommendations to reassess stock levels and ensure sustainable practices.
Researchers continue to emphasise the significance of seamounts as they have been found to act as hotspots for ocean predators, drawing in a diverse array of marine life, particularly those near Ascension Island.
There is a webinar on Mobulid Rays in the Chagos Archipelago: Fisheries & Conservation Management on 29th April 2025. Register here.
Marine Protection
The US and Australia have come together to advocate for an ocean conservation plan that has been blocked by New Zealand, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts to protect marine ecosystems. Meanwhile, the Maugean skate, native to Australia and residing in Tasmanian waters, is at risk of imminent extinction within a decade, a situation worsened by the current government’s inadequate environmental policies.
Environmental groups have filed the first lawsuit against the new Trump administration, challenging an illegal order to reverse ocean protections related to offshore drilling.
Sea sand dredging in Indonesia for Singapore’s construction is jeopardising local fisheries and marine ecosystems, raising concerns about its impact on biodiversity and livelihoods.
Seagrass gardening is gaining attention as a promising conservation strategy to restore essential underwater ecosystems, boost marine biodiversity, and strengthen coastal resilience in the face of climate change.
A study has called for an investigation into the impact of sunscreens on marine life, highlighting the potential damage to coral reefs and other aquatic ecosystems from harmful chemicals in these products.
Conservation
The winning images of the “Underwater Photographer of the Year 2025″ competition showcase the beauty and diversity of marine life.
A group of volunteer divers known as the ‘ghost hunters’ are cleaning up parts of the UK’s seas by removing discarded fishing gear and other marine debris to protect marine life and habitats.
Over 150 whales were stranded near Arthur River in Tasmania this week, leading authorities to euthanise 90 false killer whales, as experts deemed rescue efforts impossible due to complex conditions.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza has spread in the Weddell Sea, impacting penguins, seals, and other species, which raises significant concerns about its potential effects on the region’s wildlife and ecosystem.
Climate Crisis
Climate change is driving significant shifts in fish populations and distributions, highlighting the urgent need for adaptive management strategies to sustain global fisheries; among those affected is the whitefin swellshark, a Critically Endangered catshark found off Australia’s coasts, which faces increased vulnerability due to predicted ocean changes, including rising temperatures and altered chemistry, according to a new study from the University of Plymouth. In addition, turtles have been found to change their nesting patterns in response to climate change.
A study has found that only 17% of the world’s peatlands, which are crucial for combating climate change, are currently protected, highlighting the need for enhanced conservation efforts.
Could wolves help tackle climate change?
Melting glaciers have contributed nearly 2 centimetres to sea level rise this century, while research shows that ice algae may accelerate the melting of Greenland’s ice sheets.
Aquaculture
A marine biologist has expressed their fascination with cleaner fish, the unsung heroes of salmon farms, which tirelessly work to keep their scaly companions free of parasites. Complementing this, a new report offers valuable insights into sea lice, aiming to improve understanding and management of this significant challenge in aquaculture.
Mowi, a global supplier of farmed salmon, has announced the purchase of a Scottish island to develop aquaculture operations.
Misc
‘No water, no life. No blue, no green.’
‘Extreme weather is our new reality. We must accept it and begin planning.’
