Genetics
The Gene That Stings You
Scientists from Cornell University demonstrate that a single genetic on/off switch controls the emergence of stinging cells in Cnidarians.
Category: Biology
Genetics
Evolution in Action for Diatoms in the Baltic Sea
A species of marine algae is adapting to freshwater areas of the Baltic Sea.
Biological oceanography deep sea Genetics
How do symbiotic relationships with bacteria help snails adapt to the deep sea?
Deep-sea snails obtain bacterial symbionts from the surrounding environment, allowing them to survive in harsh environments
Biology
Can octopuses see with their skin?
Octopuses can sense light with their skin and this ties directly into their ability to change colors!
Biology
Phytoplankton are experts at adjusting themselves to changing temperatures
Learn about how quickly phytoplankton can survive frequent changes between high and low ocean temperatures!
Biology
Massive icefish breeding colony discovered in Antarctica
Scientists on an Antarctic research expedition unexpectedly discovered an icefish nesting ground that appears to be the largest known fish…
Biology
A “super simple” approach to immunity
This super simple animal has immune cells. What does it mean for biology? References: Mayorova, T.D., Hammar, K., Jung, J.H.…
Biology
Could sharks and rays be headed for a global extinction?
A new study finds that over one-third of sharks and rays are threatened and may be at risk of extinction.
Biodiversity Biological oceanography Biology Human impacts Plastic Science Communication
Are Diseases in Ocean Ecosystems Increasing?
Citation: Ward JR, Lafferty KD (2004) The Elusive Baseline of Marine Disease: Are Diseases in Ocean Ecosystems Increasing? PLoS Biol…
Biology Chemistry Hazards Human Health Plastic Pollution
How many microplastics are in your body? An insight into lifetime accumulation
Microscopic plastics have been found anywhere and everywhere, including in the food we eat. With plastic pollution on the rise,…
Biology Chemistry Methodology Microbiology Physiology
Protist Factories: A Potential Way to Make Gold and Silver
Modern research is investigating the ability of organisms to make valuable products for us. A multi-national team examined the ability…
Biogeochemistry Biological oceanography Biology deep sea Physical oceanography Remote Sensing
An unexpected source of deep-sea iron in the Southern Ocean fuels life at the ocean’s surface
The cold, dark Southern Ocean makes it difficult for phytoplankton, the plants of the sea, to get the resources they…
Genetics
Shark Sleuthing: How scientists can identify which species of sharks attack
Though shark attacks are uncommon, it is in humanity’s best interest to learn all we can about the sharks responsible.…
Biology Ecology Fisheries Human impacts
Far reaching microplastics: They may be closer than you think
We all know plastic pollution is a growing problem in our oceans harming sea creatures and covering beaches. What is…
Biology
Moray Eel’s Eerie Jaws Provide Unique Advantage
Most fish have a second set of jaws deep inside their throat that helps them process food. While these jaws…
Biochemistry Biological oceanography Genetics Hazards
Like Parent, Like Offspring: Fish Inherit Changes in DNA Methylation
How do animals respond to these environmental changes? How can they make sure their offspring will survive these conditions too?…
Biodiversity Biological oceanography Biology Climate Change Coastal Management Conservation Ecology Fisheries Invasive Species
The Circle of Life: Understanding Lionfish Life Cycles
We know who's the king of the jungle, but who's the king of the reef? Lionfish may look cool, but…
Biology Human impacts Lakes Plastic
Can Green Algae Capture Microplastics in the Great Lakes?
Microplastics (specifically microfibers) can adhere to the cell walls of the green algae Cladophora, potentially removing them from the water.
Biochemistry Biology Ecology Human Health Human impacts Pollution Toxicology
Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes in Seahorse Hormones
While we already know that plastics are harmful to the environment, do you ever really think about how they can…