Marine biology

Surviving fishing gear entanglement isn’t enough for endangered right whales – females still don’t breed afterward

Retrieved on: 
Wednesday, March 13, 2024

On Feb. 14, the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced that the whale was #5120 in a catalog that tracks individual right whales.

Key Points: 
  • On Feb. 14, the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced that the whale was #5120 in a catalog that tracks individual right whales.
  • Further, the agency said, rope that had been deeply embedded in the whale’s tail had likely come from lobster fishing gear in Maine.
  • Entanglement in fishing gear is a deadly threat to these critically endangered animals.
  • Scientists estimate that before commercial whaling scaled up in the 18th and 19th centuries, there may have been as many as 10,000 North Atlantic right whales.
  • When whales become entangled in fishing gear, they use extra energy dragging it as they swim.

Smaller females are having fewer young

  • By 2018 there were only about 73 breeding females left, representing roughly half of all females and a sixth of the entire species.
  • Other research has shown that poor health and physical condition are making it harder for these females to even start breeding.
  • Smaller whales have fewer calves.
  • Many organizations are involved in tracking North Atlantic right whales, including government agencies, aquariums and conservation groups.
  • Even females who have previously reproduced are less likely to breed again following an entanglement event.
  • By identifying and photographing whales repeatedly over time, scientists can estimate different stages of their life, such as when females give birth.

Weakness of current regulations

  • If they are larger and enter the blubber, they are classified as moderate.
  • Our research makes it clear that such value-laden terms are potentially misleading because even minor entanglements can threaten whales’ successful reproduction.
  • In our view, these measures do not give enough weight to preventing all types of entanglements, regardless of severity.
  • And the plan closes trap fishing areas seasonally when whales are known to be present in those zones.

Coming back from the brink

  • While these estimates seem promising, females need to start and continue producing calves to increase whales’ numbers.
  • From our work, it is very clear that both lethal and sublethal impacts of entanglements are of grave concern for these whales.
  • She also is a member of the International Whaling Commission Scientific Committee.
  • Peter Corkeron consults for Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility on right whale conservation issues.
  • Rob Harcourt receives funding from the Australian Federal Government Department of Climate Change, Environment, Energy and Water for research on right whales.

Delta and Internationally Renowned Marine Research Laboratory Launch Innovative Coral Research and Rescue Collaboration

Retrieved on: 
Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Mote serves as a leader for science-based marine conservation policy in the United States, holding a world-leading position in scientific research for coral restoration, among 25 other research programs.

Key Points: 
  • Mote serves as a leader for science-based marine conservation policy in the United States, holding a world-leading position in scientific research for coral restoration, among 25 other research programs.
  • The Delta Foundation sent representatives to Mote last year to observe their coral bleaching rescue mechanism.
  • Building upon professional research, Delta has leveraged its own automation technology, equipment, and corporate volunteers to contribute to heat-resilient coral research and conservation efforts.
  • Trained and assessed Delta coral restoration volunteers are responsible for monitoring and maintenance, preparing for the next marine heatwave event.

National Geographic Unveils Trailer for Captivating New Series PHOTOGRAPHER From Oscar®, Bafta and Emmy® Award-Winning Filmmakers E. Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin

Retrieved on: 
Thursday, February 8, 2024

Today, National Geographic released the trailer for the unprecedented six-part docuseries PHOTOGRAPHER from award-winning filmmakers E. Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin.

Key Points: 
  • Today, National Geographic released the trailer for the unprecedented six-part docuseries PHOTOGRAPHER from award-winning filmmakers E. Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin.
  • Along with the release of the trailer, National Geographic also announced today the names of the eight esteemed directors who have masterfully brought each of the photographers’ stories to life.
  • For over 135 years, National Geographic has built a storied legacy in visual storytelling, showing an interconnected world through the work of thousands of renowned photographers.
  • For Little Monster Films, E. Chai Vasarhelyi, Jimmy Chin and Pagan Harleman are executive producers, and Anna Barnes and Brent Kunkle are co-executive producers.

How trophy fishing can have a sustainable future

Retrieved on: 
Monday, February 5, 2024

Suddenly, the peace was broken by the scream of a fishing reel as a four-metre-long blue marlin (Makaira mazaraburst) burst from the water.

Key Points: 
  • Suddenly, the peace was broken by the scream of a fishing reel as a four-metre-long blue marlin (Makaira mazaraburst) burst from the water.
  • For the next hour the giant fish surged, leapt and tail walked, as my best friend and fishing companion mostly just held on.
  • Recreational fishing for the largest species and individual fish in the sea like this is often called trophy fishing.

What’s the catch?

  • Notably, in the 1950s, the average record-holding fish weighed a hefty 168kg, but this figure fell drastically to just 8kg in the 2010s.
  • The fish are not shrinking, instead anglers are now targeting a broader range of smaller species.
  • However, this might signal a concerning decline in the population of larger fish species.
  • Comparing the last decade (2010–2018) to the 2000s, there has been a roughly 66% decrease in records for these at-risk species.

Tackling sustainability

  • This approach records the length of the fish rather than weight, enabling it to be released without needing to kill it.
  • Although releasing fish does not guarantee survival, that can be maximised by using the right gear and careful handling.
  • From this year, the UK government has authorised a catch and release only recreational fishery for these fish.
  • With continued careful management this should bring exciting angling, social and economic benefits for years to come.


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  • Bryce Stewart receives funding from Defra and UK Research and Innovation.
  • He is a member of the Marine Conservation Society and the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and sits on the Marine Stewardship Council Stakeholder Advisory Council.

Sub-forum Themed "Guangzhou Nansha Joins Hands with the World" Successfully Held

Retrieved on: 
Wednesday, December 6, 2023

GUANGZHOU, China, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On December 4, the sub-forum themed "Guangzhou Nansha Joins Hands with the World" was successfully held during the 5th World Media Summit.

Key Points: 
  • GUANGZHOU, China, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On December 4, the sub-forum themed "Guangzhou Nansha Joins Hands with the World" was successfully held during the 5th World Media Summit.
  • Nansha should take advantage of the summit to showcase its stance and determination to join hands with the world.
  • With the ambition of creating a "window to the world", Nansha is building a fertile ground for multinational enterprises to develop.
  • I was also deeply impressed by the beautiful environment in Nansha," he said.

Investing in the Future: Drone Data Services Market Projected to Surpass $15 Billion by 2030

Retrieved on: 
Friday, December 1, 2023

VANCOUVER, BC, Dec. 1, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- USA News Group  -  According to the World Bank's Food Security Update 2023, food insecurity is on the rise across the globe. Among the more promising solutions being proposed is better data analytics of crops and soil, which is also being tied to the rise in data collection done with drone technology. It's a sector that's growing extremely rapidly, with analysts projecting the Drone Data Services market to explode by a CAGR of 39% from 2023 to 2030, to eventually top $15 billion. Many of the world's problems can and will be aided and even solved by better data collection, and there are plenty of companies looking to capitalize on drone-collected data, as well as artificial intelligence (AI) powered data analysis, including Scope Carbon Corp. (OTCQB:SCPCF) (CSE:SCPE), GoPro, Inc. (NASDAQ:GPRO), AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ:AVAV), Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), and EHang Holdings Limited (NASDAQ:EH).

Key Points: 
  • Among the more promising solutions being proposed is better data analytics of crops and soil, which is also being tied to the rise in data collection done with drone technology.
  • It's a sector that's growing extremely rapidly, with analysts projecting the Drone Data Services market to explode by a CAGR of 39% from 2023 to 2030, to eventually top $15 billion.
  • "Scope is poised to be tremendously impactful through mapping and data mining across multiple geographic zones," said Burke upon his new role's announcement.
  • "Using AI technology with drones, the software generates vast amounts of data from agricultural crops, marine biology, and forestation to name a few."

Investing in the Future: Drone Data Services Market Projected to Surpass $15 Billion by 2030

Retrieved on: 
Friday, December 1, 2023

VANCOUVER, BC, Dec. 1, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- USA News Group  -  According to the World Bank's Food Security Update 2023, food insecurity is on the rise across the globe. Among the more promising solutions being proposed is better data analytics of crops and soil, which is also being tied to the rise in data collection done with drone technology. It's a sector that's growing extremely rapidly, with analysts projecting the Drone Data Services market to explode by a CAGR of 39% from 2023 to 2030, to eventually top $15 billion. Many of the world's problems can and will be aided and even solved by better data collection, and there are plenty of companies looking to capitalize on drone-collected data, as well as artificial intelligence (AI) powered data analysis, including Scope Carbon Corp. (OTCQB:SCPCF) (CSE:SCPE), GoPro, Inc. (NASDAQ:GPRO), AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ:AVAV), Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), and EHang Holdings Limited (NASDAQ:EH).

Key Points: 
  • Among the more promising solutions being proposed is better data analytics of crops and soil, which is also being tied to the rise in data collection done with drone technology.
  • It's a sector that's growing extremely rapidly, with analysts projecting the Drone Data Services market to explode by a CAGR of 39% from 2023 to 2030, to eventually top $15 billion.
  • "Scope is poised to be tremendously impactful through mapping and data mining across multiple geographic zones," said Burke upon his new role's announcement.
  • "Using AI technology with drones, the software generates vast amounts of data from agricultural crops, marine biology, and forestation to name a few."

DFRobot's Gravity Sensors Enhance Data Collection in SAGA Underwater Habitat (UHAB)

Retrieved on: 
Tuesday, October 24, 2023

SHANGHAI, Oct. 24, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- DFRobot, a global leader in open-source hardware and advanced sensor technology, played a critical role in enhancing underwater data collection for the SAGA Underwater Habitat (UHAB).

Key Points: 
  • SHANGHAI, Oct. 24, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- DFRobot, a global leader in open-source hardware and advanced sensor technology, played a critical role in enhancing underwater data collection for the SAGA Underwater Habitat (UHAB).
  • Developed by SAGA Space Architects, renowned pioneers in human-centric space environments, the UHAB is an exceptional underwater habitat that faithfully replicates a space mission and provides unparalleled research opportunities.
  • SAGA constructed the Underwater Habitat (UHAB) to simulate the challenging conditions of a space mission to provide an authentic space-like experience.
  • These sensors, including CO2, CO, O2, air pressure, air quality, temperature, and humidity sensors, accurately measure environmental factors underwater.

Sector Leaders Chart Course with Recommendations for Forthcoming UN Plastics Treaty Negotiations

Retrieved on: 
Friday, October 13, 2023

Amidst the escalating global plastic pollution crisis, key stakeholders from across the plastics space, NGOs, policymakers, and the scientific community, have unveiled their recommendations to guide UN negotiations on establishing an international, legally-binding treaty to combat plastic pollution.

Key Points: 
  • Amidst the escalating global plastic pollution crisis, key stakeholders from across the plastics space, NGOs, policymakers, and the scientific community, have unveiled their recommendations to guide UN negotiations on establishing an international, legally-binding treaty to combat plastic pollution.
  • Delegates at the inaugural Global Plastics Summit in Bangkok propose a raft of solutions to plug gaps in a draft of a Global Plastics Treaty to ensure it is robust enough to tackle the plastics crisis.
  • Incorporating Key Voices: Stakeholders from Global South and SIDS countries to be given a prominent voice in the negotiations, including the upcoming INC-3.
  • Charles Goddard, Editorial Director at Economist Impact and Chief Moderator at the Global Plastics Summit, said: "These recommendations underscore the critical importance of engaging all stakeholders in the development of the UN Plastics Treaty.

Sector Leaders Chart Course with Recommendations for Forthcoming UN Plastics Treaty Negotiations

Retrieved on: 
Friday, October 13, 2023

Amidst the escalating global plastic pollution crisis, key stakeholders from across the plastics space, NGOs, policymakers, and the scientific community, have unveiled their recommendations to guide UN negotiations on establishing an international, legally-binding treaty to combat plastic pollution.

Key Points: 
  • Amidst the escalating global plastic pollution crisis, key stakeholders from across the plastics space, NGOs, policymakers, and the scientific community, have unveiled their recommendations to guide UN negotiations on establishing an international, legally-binding treaty to combat plastic pollution.
  • Delegates at the inaugural Global Plastics Summit in Bangkok propose a raft of solutions to plug gaps in a draft of a Global Plastics Treaty to ensure it is robust enough to tackle the plastics crisis.
  • Incorporating Key Voices: Stakeholders from Global South and SIDS countries to be given a prominent voice in the negotiations, including the upcoming INC-3.
  • Charles Goddard, Editorial Director at Economist Impact and Chief Moderator at the Global Plastics Summit, said: "These recommendations underscore the critical importance of engaging all stakeholders in the development of the UN Plastics Treaty.