Scientists have made some fascinating discoveries in the world’s last frontier, our oceans. Let’s dive into some of the anomalies and findings that have emerged in this ever-changing environment.
First up, let’s talk about the Desertas petrels. These birds have been observed following hurricanes for thousands of miles across the Atlantic Ocean. Nesting on Bugio Island, Portugal, these petrels have found a way to forage in areas with large wave action after a storm, bringing deeper-dwelling organisms up to the surface and providing a feeding frenzy for these birds.
Shifting our focus to shark evolution, researchers from the University of California have delved into the history of shark roaming habits. They discovered that during a major warming period in the early Cretaceous period, sharks adapted towards open ocean lifestyles. This adaptation allowed them to swim farther and faster in warmer oceans, leading to the rise of modern-day roaming sharks.
But what happens to our coral reefs in acid oceans? Scientists in Papua New Guinea have studied coral communities living near volcanic vents, where carbon dioxide seeps create more acidic conditions. Under these circumstances, coral species composition shifts, leading to a change in fish communities and their behavior.
And finally, in 2015, the deep-sea explorer Nautilus stumbled upon a deep ocean brine pool in the Gulf of Mexico. Known as the “hot tub of despair,” this pool creates a toxic environment with high concentrations of salt and methane. Only a specific species of mussels has been found to tolerate these extreme conditions, making it a unique and deadly underwater feature.
The ocean never fails to surprise us with its wonders and mysteries. As our climate changes, it is vital to understand how these ecosystems are evolving and the impact these changes have on the marine life that calls these waters home.
