Researchers at Ehime University successfully assessed the risk of DDTs on endocrine disruption in killer whales using New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) that avoid animal testing. By in vitro experiments and computer analysis, they found that DDTs activate killer whale estrogen receptor α, potentially disrupting hormone balance. This is concerning because DDTs levels in killer whales are high enough to cause harm. This study highlights the potential of NAMs for assessing chemical risks in wild species.

Researchers in China have named a newly discovered fish species after the Studio Ghibli character San from Princess Mononoke based on its similar facial markings.

Shark depredation is a rising issue in recreational fishing, especially in Florida, where sharks steal fish straight off anglers' lines. Researchers harnessed citizen science – social media, angler surveys, charters – and genetic analysis, to investigate the problem. Findings reveal that snapper-grouper species are the most targeted, with bull and sandbar sharks as the primary culprits. Nearly half of anglers reported depredation. These insights help shed light on the extent of this human-wildlife conflict and its impact on different fishery sectors.

2024 was an exceptionally calm year for shark bites. Worldwide, there were only 47 unprovoked attacks, down 22 from the previous year and well below the 10-year average of 70.

It’s 1999, the 21st century is on the horizon, and California has big plans for marine conservation. New legislation has presented a mandate to establish an ambitious network of marine protected areas (MPAs) unlike anywhere else in the world. The goal is to craft strategic protections to safeguard the state’s marine life for preservation and economic benefits alike.

Researchers have designed an alternative, autonomous observational method to monitor the Arctic’s melting ice, which holds promise for improving the autonomy of marine vehicles, aiding in maritime missions, and gaining a deeper understanding of how melting Arctic sea ice affects marine ecosystems. Their conceptual design features a small waterplane area twin hull vessel that acts as a docking and charging station for autonomous underwater vehicles and unmanned aerial vehicles, using solar and turbine energy to enable continuous monitoring.

Researchers at Lund University in Sweden have analysed the soft tissue from a fossilized plesiosaur for the first time. The results show that the long-necked marine reptile had both smooth and scaly skin. This was likely so it could both swim rapidly and move along rough seabeds.