September 24, 2014
Ocean Roundup: Blue Crabs Keeping Invasive Green Crabs in Line, Sargasso Sea Less Biodiverse than in Previous Years, and More
– New research shows that there’s much less biodiversity in the Sargasso Sea than there was in the 1970s. The scientists noted that 13 species reported to be present over 40 years ago, including worms and some crustaceans, were not found in these samples. Phys.org
– Two Australian men have been arrested for illegally harvesting female mud crabs, as well as undersized blue swimmer and mud crabs, that were apparently headed for the black market. Prosecutors say that the men were aware that the crabs were caught illegally. Brisbane Times
– Invasive green crabs have rapidly been expanding around Atlantic Canada, feasting on clams, oysters, mussels, and small fish in the process, as well as destroying eel grass. But, as the native blue crab expands their range into the same area and feeds on the same prey, researchers say green crabs have “met their match.” CBC News
– Yesterday, world leaders converged at the UN Climate Summit to discuss methods for reducing fossil fuel emissions and creating clean energy, among other topics. Though many leaders say the event was a success—UN secretary-general Ban Ki-moon concluding the day saying “We have delivered”—others, like Nelson Mandela’s widow said the group needed to step up their “ambition.” The Guardian
Op-Ed:
– Senate Bill 1138, which calls for mandated seafood labeling in California, recently passed through California legislature with bipartisan support. This bill is now in California Governor Brown’s hands, and would continue to make California a leader in consumer protection. The Huffington Post