September 19, 2014
Ocean Roundup: Gulf of Mexico Sharks are Shrinking, Caribbean Reefs Capable of Being Saved, and More
– Researchers say that some sharks in the Gulf of Mexico are decreasing in size, and in some cases are down by as much as 70 percent. The researchers analyzed data from annual shark rodeos over the last half century to come to the results, and say that finning and commercial fishing are significant factors in this decline. Houston Chronicle
– Scientists warn that tropical rabbitfish threaten the entire Mediterranean basin if their range continues to expand from climate change. These fish have caused significant declines in seaweed, algae, and invertebrates numbers in areas where two species of rabbitfish have come prevalent. Phys.org
– This year’s red tide off of Florida is expected to “cause considerable damage” to fisheries and tourism over the next few months. This particular strain of algae, Karenia brevis, releases a toxin that kills fish, manatees, sea turtles, and other marine life. The Associated Press
Photos:
– These stunning images tell the story of residents that live along the Coral Triangle and whose lives revolve around the sea. In recent years, dynamite and cyanide fishing has threatened this region’s abundance that nearly 140 million people depend on. National Geographic
Op-Ed:
– Despite climate change, the Caribbean coral reefs may be able to thrive. Coral reefs faced degradation from overfishing, runoff pollution, and coastal development before climate change became an imminent threat, so the authors argue that if protective measures against these threats were enforced, coral reefs could stand a chance. The New York Times