New DNA techniques are being used to understand how coral reacted to the end of the last ice age in order to better predict how they will cope with current changes to the climate. James Cook University’s Dr. Ira Cooke was senior author of the study. He said when corals become stressed they often bleach […]
Tag: oceans
Acid test: Are the world’s oceans becoming too ‘acidic’ to support life?
Hours after being born, oysters are already working to form their protective, chalk-layered shells. Drawing calcium and carbonate from seawater, they combine the two to form hardened shells. But as humans have pumped voluminous sums of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, this ancient process has come under threat. It’s estimated that the global ocean absorbs […]
Fears for platypus populations after flooding in Queensland and NSW
There are fears that platypus populations might have been wiped out by recent floods in greater Brisbane, sparking new calls for the species to be nationally recognised as threatened. While the platypus is endangered in South Australia and was listed as vulnerable in Victoria last year, the iconic monotreme is not officially considered threatened in […]
This little penguin can waddle easily again thanks to his custom-made boots
Lucas, a San Diego Zoo penguin with a chronic condition called “bumblefoot” that makes walking painful, can now waddle and hop with ease again thanks to a new pair of orthopedic boots. “‘Bumblefoot’ is a word we use for pododermatitis in birds,” meaning inflammation of the skin of the foot, Dr. Beth Bicknese, senior veterinarian […]
Dolphins Can Recognize Each Other By Taste of Their Urine, New Study Finds
Dolphins can recognize each other by the taste of their urine, according to a new study. Researchers from the University of St Andrews published a study in the journal Science Advances that found dolphins’ unique sense of taste allows them to tell the difference between their other mammal friends from their urine and other excretions. […]
World Oceans Week
A world of wonder, Where mysteries remain This magic place Has not been the same. We have sadly assumed this world Is forever, But if we do not change our ways This world will be for never. So please stand up for our waters Before it is too late We the earth mother’s sons and […]
What effect does ocean pollution have on wildlife?
The vast oceans that cover 70% of the earth’s surface are a natural wonder that is essential to supporting life on our planet. Despite this, however, our oceans are not treated with the respect they deserve, with pollution a huge problem that is increasing exponentially across the world. Around 1.4 billion pounds of rubbish is […]