September 17, 2014
Ocean Roundup: Leatherback Coloration May Play Important Role, UK Sees New Voluntary Seafood Labeling Scheme, and More
– Researchers have discovered that the “pink spot” on leatherback sea turtles’ heads may actually play a useful physiological role. It may detect sunlight patterns, clueing leatherbacks into changes in seasonal patterns to inform their migrational and foraging habits. Smithsonian
– This week, the UK’s Sustainable Seafood Coalition, which includes 80 percent of seafood grocers and suppliers in the UK, issued new voluntary labeling codes for members. Under new labeling codes to be presented clearly on packaging, customers can trace the source and environmental impacts of their seafood selection. The Guardian
– Though climate change is projected to adversely affect many species, a new study found that some organisms may actually benefit from climate change and ocean acidification. One phytoplankton species, Emiliania huxleyi, can absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide, and is expected to thrive under climate projections for the next century. Reuters
– The International Whaling Commission met for the first time since the international court of justice ruled Japan’s whaling hunt to not be scientific earlier this year. Both Australia and New Zealand voiced opposition to Japan’s plan to hunt in the Southern Ocean in 2015. The Guardian
Long Read:
– A study published this summer pointed to the sharp declines in the vaquita, a porpoise near extinction. Conservationists say that eliminating illegal fishing for totoaba and regulating local shrimp fisheries could help save remaining vaquita. The New York Times