November 12, 2014
Ocean Roundup: Map Reveals Ocean Acidification Hotspots, Illegal Sea Urchin Harvesting Causing Alarm in St. Lucia, and More
– Environmental groups on St. Lucia say they are growing “increasingly concerned” over illegal harvesting of sea urchins—especially young sea urchins that don’t have a chance to reproduce. Fishery managers closed the fishery and warned that anyone caught illegally harvesting could risk legal penalties. Jamaica Observer
– Scientists have discovered the mechanisms behind shipworm’s, which are actually clams despite their resemblance to worms, ability to digest wood. Scientists discovered they digest wood through their gills—not via bacteria in the gut like most animals—and that this discovery may have implications for developing biofuels. The Washington Post
– In response to the U.N. Convention on Biological Diversity’s recent report on ocean acidification, scientists have created the most comprehensive ocean map so far on ocean acidification. The map shows ocean pH, and reveals which regions are most acidic. Salon
– Peruvian officials are investigating nearly 200 seal deaths and 50 pelican deaths on northern beaches in October. Scientists suspect food loss caused the deaths, but will also investigate instances related to fisheries interaction, plastic debris, and oil activities. Fox News Latino