How often are you cleaning your aquarium? Probably once or twice a month. But how often are you deep cleaning your tank?
We spend a lot of money on our aquarium equipment and in order for it to last, we have to properly take care of it. Here is a checklist of all the things you should be deep cleaning several times a year.
Goldfish learning to drive. Photo: Rosen Zyulun via CNN
If you would like to learn more about the Goldfish study, check out this article link:
https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/10/world/goldfish-drive-intl-scli-scn/index.html
What food do you love, but know its not good for you?
Comic of Red Hairy Hermit Crab Talking to a Pencil Urchin
A recently released study by the Hull University in England found the chemical additive, oleamide, which is released from plastic gets crabs excited.
The crabs showed elevated respiration rates (an indicator of excitement) when in the presence of even a small amount of oleamide.
Comic of Marine Hermit Crab talking to Pencil Urchin
While this response could be an indicator of sexual excitement, it is also similar to their feeding response.
When arthropods decompose they release oleic acid, which is very similar to the chemical make up of oleamide that is released by the plastic.
Comic of Crab telling an urchin he gets excited by plastic.
As scavengers, and opportunistic eaters, a crabs food is often comprised of dead, decomposing matter that contains the oleic acid. Since the compound found in plastic is so similar to one of the chemicals in their food, it could explain the crab's positive association with the plastic.
Oh are you going to tell me you don’t eat plastic? Unfortunately, there’s a real good chance that isn’t true. Let me tell you about this study by The University of Queensland, you might want to sit down for this.
They looked at tissue samples of a variety of different species- 10 oysters, 10 farmed tiger prawns, 10 wild squid, five wild blue crab and 10 wild sardines. They found plastic in 100% of the samples they looked at.
Of all the species they looked at they found Sardines had the highest amount of plastic.
The study’s lead author said this “Considering an average serving, a seafood eater could be exposed to approximately 0.7mg of plastic when ingesting an average serving of oysters or squid, and up to 30mg of plastic when eating sardines, respectively …. For comparison, 30mg is the average weight of a grain of rice."
Now before you say “I don’t eat seafood, so I don’t have to worry.” If micro plastics have gotten into the tissues of sessile organisms that live on the bottom of the ocean, don’t for a second think they haven’t infiltrated our land based foods systems as well.
To Read the full paper: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/acs.est.0c02337
Have you ever heard of DDT?
It was banned in 1972, but in order to get rid of the excess that was produced, nearly HALF A MILLION barrels of it were dumped in the the ocean off the coast of California in the San Pedro Basin, between Catalina and the Palos Verdes Peninsula.
Researchers have estimated there is 1,535 TONs of DDT on the sea floor, slowly oozing out of the dumped barrels.
Their existence has been known about for DECADES, and each time it was brought up (until recently) agencies brushed it aside, or just covered it with sand (literally) hoping it would go away on it's own.
But the “fun” thing about DDT is that it is very stable and doesn't break down. Instead it has been leeching out into the water, where it is collecting and bio accumulating in fish, dolphins, and other aquatic species as its makes its way up the food chain.
In October 2020, the dumped barrels made news headlines and in a few short months, scientists from Scripps were able to put together a team of 31 researchers, get a vessel (Sally Ride), and create a method to survey the area using the equivalent of deep sea rumbas.
The team started their work on March 10th 2021 and are expected to be finished on March 24th 2021.
Each of the ROV's deployed will survey the ocean floor for 12-16 hours before returning to recharge. While one is charging, one will be able to survey.
They hope to have the data available to be studied further approximately 30 days after the expedition on NOAA's website.
Which of these catches more plastic particles- sand beds, coral reefs, sea grass beds, or macro-algae?
A study released last month by Jaco C. de Smit et al. looked at how different nearshore habitats trap and collect micro plastics.
They looked how sand/ sediment bed, sea grass, macro algae, and Stylophora (coral) were able to trap 2 different sizes of micro-plastics- 2.5mm and .5 mm.
What they found is that habitats with more complex structures trapped a higher amount of micro-plastics, but the area which trapped the most micro plastics was the sediment, which trapped 1 to 2 times more than any of the other areas.
The reason they believe this happened is because of the near-bed turbulent kinetic energy which is a contributing factor to sediment trapping.
Of the 2 different sizes of microplastics that were trapped, the .5mm particles seemed to be trapped more frequently than the 2.5 mm particles.
We already know micro-plastics are an issue, why does study this matter?
Nearshore ecosystems, like sea grass beds and coral reefs are hugely productive ecosystems and act as nurseries for many species of fish and sharks. According to this study they have large capacity for sequestering plastic. With these areas that are used by animals in vulnerable life stages, being inundated with micro plastics, it is much easier for them to get ingested and cause issues starting from early on. If the inhabitants of these area start to have issues, so too with the areas themselves.
To read their full article search here.
Waves crashing on the beach
What does your home sound like? Is it quiet? Loud? Are there kids playing or dogs barking? Do you hear trains or traffic in the background?
If you think about it, our homes have a certain sound. Are you having a hard time figuring out what that sound is? Think about the last time you went away and had a hard time falling asleep because you missed the sounds of home.
Just like our homes and habitats have a certain sound, so to do ocean ecosystems. (Check out my video of Aquarium of the Pacific, Pacific Visions sounds on the reef exhibit to hear what a reef sounds like) Now though, with increasing amounts of anthropogenic influences, aquatic habitats don’t sound the same and animals like Clownfish and whales, who use sound to navigate are having issues.
While noise pollution might not seem like that big of a deal, it has had increasingly larger impacts on marine life. As anthropogenic noises (air guns, seismic testing, oil drilling platforms, cargo ships, speed boats, pile drivers, etc.) increase, the animals living in the oceans are facing more and more problems.
Consider the last time you were somewhere and you encountered a loud or unpleasant noise. What did you do? Most likely you left the area, which is what some of the larger species like whales and dolphins will do. Animals will often change their course to avoid loud areas like shipping lanes. But what about those smaller sessile species who can’t get away? They have been found to slowly migrate, leaving their native areas all together. Another example of issues it causes is one experienced by Clownfish. In their larval state they live in open water and as they grow they use sounds to help them navigate back to the reefs they will live on. With all the noise pollution, they are unable to tell which direction they need to swim to get to their reef.
A recently released literature review looked at different studies done around the world with respect to aquatic species and noise pollution. The study’s authors looked at more than 10,000 papers about marine bio-acoustics from the past 20 years with the goal of compiling information that can be used to create policies that will bring about change.
Researchers point out that noise pollution can cause physical damage to the animals. Some fish can regenerate cells used for auditory purposes, but mammals likely don’t have that ability.
So, what can be done? While international cargo shipping, and oil drilling is not going to stop, there are changes that can be made to mitigate our impacts on the watery world and its inhabitants.
By moving shipping lanes, we can locate them in areas that have as small of an impact as possible.
Reducing the speed of traveling vessels will help to reduce noise pollution they cause.
Changing the types of propellers used to ones that produce fewer cavitation bubbles will quiet them.
Creating areas with sound barriers for oil platforms and deep sea drilling can reduce the impacted areas.
One of the unique, yet unplanned facets of this review is that the authors got to see the results of reduced noise pollution due to the pandemic slowdowns in commercial shipping. Dr. Carlos Duarte, the paper’s lead author said “Recovery can be almost immediate” as marine mammals and sharks began to return to areas when the shipping traffic slowed during 2020.
In the example at the beginning, when considering out home ecosystems, it should be noted that they are not quite, and nor are the oceans. Fish, marine mammals, and other organisms use sound to communicate with croaks, pops, snaps, and songs. Waves crash, rocks tumble, and water splashes. The goal of this research is not to show us that we need to eliminate the noise we add to the oceans, but to work to make sure that our actions do not take away from the natural sounds of ocean habitats.
To read the full article search for:
“The Soundscape of the Anthropocene Ocean”. Carlos Duarte et al.
Science 05 February 2021 ,Vol 371 Issue 6529
Proud Pour's Rose for Reefs is a great gift to give a wine lover. Part of the proceeds from each bottle goes to support SECORE a coral restoration organization.
Tis’ the season of gift giving. This year more people are seeking to give affordable Eco-friendly gifts and experiences, so it’s the perfect time to share some of my favorite brands.
Price Guide:
$- $0-$10
$$- $10-$20
$$$-$20-$30
$$$$-$30+
Dang Cute Fish designs are made by a boss babe, aquarium curator, and Mom. Products are affordable, and come in sustainable Eco-friendly packaging. $
Proud Pour wines and cider where every purchase supports a conservation organization. $$
LUSH USA bath, body, and beauty products are Eco-friendly and many have zero waste packaging. Prices range from $-$$$$
Beautiful, handmade earrings by The Rosie Finn are colorful and light weight.
The Animal Behavior Center membership is my number one recommendations for people who are interested in training and working with any kind of animal. You get a year long membership, with access to members only podcasts, training, and resources, as well as regular q&a with founder Lara Joseph. $$$$
Octopus, Sharks, Sea stars, Jellyfish, Sharks, and Seahorses are just a few of the animals up for Aquadoption at Heal the Bay Aquarium.
Adopt-an-animal. So many aquariums right now are struggling and many are allowing you to support them by adopting and animal or sponsoring feeding sessions. $-$$$$ (Heal The Bay Aquarium)
The Rosie Finn handmade gorgeous metal earrings that will arrive in Eco-friendly packaging. Click here for the Etsy site. $$$$
Do you have a favorite sustainable or Eco-friendly brand? Let me know!
9 lb Goldfish found in Greenville, SC Pond. Photo: Greenville County Parks Rec Center
Can you guess how much this goldfish weighs?
Park officials recently found this massive Goldfish, weighing 9 lbs in a local Greenville South Carolina pond! The average goldfish found in home aquariums will not likely get to be this large, however there is a possibility.
And this is how:
Goldfish and Koi, a type of carp, are members of the family Cyprinidae. If you go back far enough in their history, you will find that goldfish originated from Prussian carp. Through the process of genetic selection goldfish were bred to be smaller than Koi. While they aren’t as closely related as they once were they still have many of the same traits. So you can see how with unlimited resources and perhaps a genetic mutation, a goldfish could grow to 9lbs.
Next time you think about it compare a photo of a Koi to a Goldfish and see how many similarities you can find, I bet there are more than you might have originally guessed.
Male and Female Mallard Duck. Photo by MDC Staff, courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation.
What ways can fish eggs be spread? You thought I was talking about different crackers to use with caviar didn’t you?
In your biology courses, you may have learned there are many different ways seeds, invertebrates, and even larvae of insects are able to disperse over large ranges and to unexpected locations, but can the same be said for fish eggs?
Up until recently the answer to that was no (with the exception of Killifishes), however a paper released in July 2020 by Adam Lovas-Kiss et al. learned something interesting when it comes to waterfowl.
Mallard ducks, a migratory waterfowl, already known for their ability to disperse both aquatic and terrestrial plants were chosen to use in the study and due to their similarity to most teleost fish, researchers chose to use 2 types of fertilized carp eggs- Common Carp and Prussian Carp.
The ducks were individually housed and were each force fed the fertilized eggs (Common Carp in the first experiment and Prussian Carp in the second). After the eggs were ingested, their feces were collected after 1,2,4,6,8,12, and 24 hours.
After the feces were soaked in river water and each sample sifted through this is what they collected:
.2% (8) of the Common Carp eggs
.25% (10) of the Prussian Carp eggs
All but 1 of which, were recovered from the feces within the first hour after ingestion, with the outlier egg being recovered between 4 and 6 hours after ingestion.
Of all the eggs that passed through the Mallards’ digestive systems, 2 Prussian Carp eggs hatched and 1 Common Carp egg hatched! The males passed more eggs than females (15 to 3) and only the eggs passed by the males hatched after they were recovered. It should be noted that all of the hatched fish, both those in the control group and those ingested by the ducks eventually died of fungal infections.
These findings open up and invite many future studies that could look at the traits of fish as well as other waterfowl and their ability to act as a means of dispersal for embryonic fish.
Experimental evidence of dispersal of invasive cyprinid eggs inside migratory waterfowl
Ádám Lovas-Kiss, Orsolya Vincze, Viktor Löki, Felícia Pallér-Kapusi, Béla Halasi-Kovács, Gyula Kovács, Andy J. Green, Balázs András Lukács
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Jul 2020, 117 (27) 15397-15399; DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2004805117
Homemade sandwich bread was one step towards going plastic free.
Plastic -Free July 2020...what a doozie! For many, myself included, Plastic Free July is a challenge to reduce the amount of plastic that I consume in my day-to-day life, but this year with its plastic wrapped bananas was a bit more of a challenge, akin to the game boss waiting for you on the last level of your game when you’ve only got 1/2 of a life left. But that’s okay, I like a good challenge. The times we truly challenge ourselves, when we are forced to step far out of our comfort zones, are the times in our lives when we see some of our largest growth.
Here is what I learned the past month:
1. Homemade Bread is AMAZING, especially fresh, warm out of the oven. Previously I would purchase enough rolls from the bulk bins to get us through the week, but with those taken away I had to look inward. I can cook and bake and I actually enjoy it. The memory of the messy hassle of making bread has been banished. I am proud to say, it’s been a month since I purchased a loaf of bread or rolls. This will be a permanent change in my household, and as I gain confidence in my abilities and recipes, I hope to progress towards other items, like Gnocci. (Do you have a good recipe? Please let me know!)
Going plastic free with homemade sandwich rolls. For recipe: Check out Sally’s Baking Addiction. This is simple, easy, minimal ingredients with a great taste.
2. Going plastic free can save you money. Sometimes in order to convert to a plastic free version of something, like say, salad dressing you might end up paying a dollar more for a fancy glass jar. But there are other areas that don’t offer plastic free alternatives, for example my favorite cold brew coffee. With everything going on right now, many coffee shops have eliminated (hopefully only temporarily) allowing you to bring your own cup as well as using mugs for dine in options. Because of this and my commitment to challenge myself, I have cut back significantly on my visits to the coffee shop. As a result, I’ve saved a lot of money on coffee alone this past month.
3. Tetra Paks, despite the “Please Recycle” on them, are in fact non recyclable, at least in my area. Once I realized this I’ve been working on finding alternatives for several things, including- almond milk, protein shakes, juice, coffee creamer, etc.
A. Almond/soy/cashew/non-dairy milk- sadly I’ve not found an alternative.
B. Protein Shakes- better planning allows me to mix my own shakes, and at a fraction of the cost.
C. Juice-While you can get juice in fancy glass bottles or cans, I rediscovered the diy frozen juice, where you just add water. The Hawaii’s Own flavors are delicious.
D. Coffee Creamer- Evaporated canned milk, or Instant milk. Not as rich as 1/2 & 1/2, but probably a good bit healthier.
Going plastic free grocery shopping, pre covid-19.
4.Frozen Vegetables are easy to love with their steamable easy prep bags, but I’ve replaced them with either canned or fresh versions, which brings me to 5.
5. Homemade is good. Yes it might take a little big longer to prepare (I.e. bread, cookies, vegetable sides), but I like to think it’s worth it. Not only do you know exactly what you’re eating, but you are probably saving a bit of money in the process (according to my spouse, we have saved a lot of money by eating at home), and there is definitely a sense of satisfaction and pride of knowing you made it.
6. Beauty and skin care- ugh. This was a struggle last year and this year, but I’ve made the following changes.
A. Plastic Free Deodorant DIY or Lush’s T’eo
B. Plastic free Face moisturizer- thanks to the recommendation of The Nested Blog and the use of Dr. Bronner’s coconut oil, my skin has never looked so good.
C. Plastic free makeup-I don’t use much, but I switched to the Physicians Formula which is at lease partially recyclable mascara. (Please comment with your recommendations)
D. Plastic free Toilet paper- during the great toilet paper shortage of 2020, we installed a bidet. While we aren’t 100% TP free, we use significantly less than before.
E. Plastic free Toothpaste- after struggling trying to DIY it, I finally gave in and purchased a Toothpaste bites subscription. It works great and is 100% plastic free, but it is a bit pricey ($30 for 4 months), so I might be shopping around.
7. Sharing. Last year I was hesitant to share with people and tell them what I was doing and why, for fear I would be labeled as “one of those people”, but this year I don’t really care. With all the limitations and restrictions in place, the plastic I consume is still a choice I am able to make. Is it hard? Yes absolutely, but if I want change, I have to be the change. I have to lead by example. Times are crazy, it feels like EVERYTHING right now comes wrapped in plastic, but someone has to step up and show others that it can be done and inspire them to make changes. Tell others what you are doing and why, invite them to join on your journey, you might be surprised at the impact you have.
What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced this plastic free July? How have you overcome them?
~ Always hopeful and optimistic,
Hilary
Southern Stingray Photo by Hilary Jaffe
In 2019, Mickle et. al studied 20 different Southern stingrays (Hypanus americanus) in the waters surrounding the Bimini Biological Field Station. They placed underwater speakers in the pen with the stingrays and using a Sony Walkman, they played 5 different low frequency tones.
The 9 males and 11 females were tested individually and were exposed to 5 sound frequencies- 50Hz, 90Hz, 200Hz, 500Hz, and 1000HZ. Using a hydrophone they measured the sound level (in decibels) at 27 different locations inside the stingray’s enclosures.
Since a sound threshold for the rays was previously unknown, they started with 140dB , then depending on the stingray’s swimming behavior** , the sound was increased or decreased by 10dB or 5dB respectively making the levels tested- 130dB, 135 dB, 140dB, 150dB, and 160 dB.
What they found was both male and female stingrays exhibited behavioral differences. The average tone males responded to was 160dB while females responded more to 140dB.
With regard to frequency, males swimming activity increased at 50Hz, 90Hz, 200Hz, and 500 Hz and the females increased their activity at 50Hz, 90Hz, 200Hz, and 1000Hz.
The study looked at the following stingray behaviors- surface breaches, time spent resting, and side-swimming. Both males and females had significant increases in breaching events at 50 Hz, 90 Hz, and 200Hz. Resting rates for males and females decreased at 50Hz, 90Hz, and 200Hz and 50Hz, 90 Hz, 200Hz, and 500Hz respectively. At frequencies of 50Hz, 90 Hz, 200Hz, and 500Hz, both males and females showed increased rates of side-swimming.
If you would like to read their full article, you can find it here.
Mickle, Megan F et al. “Field assessment of behavioural responses of southern stingrays (Hypanus americanus) to acoustic stimuli.” Royal Society open science vol. 7,1 191544. 22 Jan. 2020, doi:10.1098/rsos.191544
** Animal trainers use similar observation to determine their animals level of enrichment and engagement.
Reducing the single use plastic in your life can be intimidating. One thing I recommend is to take it one step at a time instead of trying to change everything all at once. When you notice you’re starting to run low on something start looking for plastic free or zero waste alternatives. Don’t wait until the last minute as I find it easier to avoid plastic filled purchases if I’m not rushed.
Here are a few of the plastic free/reduced plastic and or zero waste options for commonly used items:
Plastic Free Toothpaste-
The Dirt All Natural Tooth Powder: Wet your toothbrush, then dip it in the powder and brush. I recommend the mint flavor. I found mine on amazon.
Bite Toothpaste Bits: Make sure to enter your email when prompted to get an extra discount) You can purchase these: https://bitetoothpastebits.com/ .
Plastic Free toothpaste with Bite Bits
Plastic Free Shampoo-
HiBar: One of Josh’s recommendations from our Interview . Check it out: https://hellohibar.com/
Lush: A coworker turned me into a Lush fan. They have a variety of different products, and if you’re not sure, talk to one of their associates who will be happy to help find whats good for you. P.S. They do give samples.
Going plastic free with shampoo bars from Lush
Plastic Free Skincare-
Lush: They have a variety of naked products that work great!
Going plastic free with face moisturizer bars from Lush.
Plastic Free Dish soap:
DIY: I’ve been making my own using this simple recipe from Zero Waste Chef . Its super easy to make, you only need water and 2-3 ingredients, which are easy to find and affordable. Occasionally the soap thickens up, so I just shake the bottle before each use.
Going plastic free with easy DIY dish soap
Plastic Free Deodorant:
DIY: Another easy to make recipe I found through the Instagram page of Sustainability Saturday. You only need 4 easy to find and affordable ingredients for this one. After you finish your current deodorant, clean out the container and pour your newly made DIY recipe in, allow to solidify in the fridge for an hr, and apply as usual.
Plastic Free Sunscreen:
Avasol: Another of Josh’s recommendations, you can find it here: http://avasol.com/
These are just a few of the items I have found alternatives for, but there are many more out there. I would love to hear about the products you’ve tried and what you hated or loved about them, so leave a comment below!
Plastic on the Beach
For the past several years I’ve been your average bystander, watching as plastic pollution issues expand around me while I dutifully shopped with my reusable grocery bags.
On the occasions I forget them I request paper and reflect on how things have changed even in my short lifetime. In grade school, I remember being taught how important it was, in order to save the trees, to ask for plastic bags instead of paper. Paper bags went from being common place to a thing of the past and I now get odd looks when I say I’m trying to reduce my plastic consumption.
It sounds odd to say- plastic consumption-, but that’s what it really is. Even though we’re not directly eating** the plastic we purchase, we’re still indirectly purchasing it, with our toothpaste, toilet paper, shampoo bottles, and our food. Each time we spend our hard earned money purchasing goods cozily enveloped in plastic, we’re telling companies- “We’re okay with this, no need to change a thing.”.
Surely you’ve heard the phrase- put your money where your mouth is? Many consumers have realized they have power, not only in their purchase decisions, but also in connecting with companies. In 2018 Trader Joe’s announced, due to consumer demand, they were going to work on eliminating unnecessary plastic from their stores. (Check out all they are doing here.)
But consumers aren’t always the ones behind the changes, in some cases it’s science, for example the Microbead-Free Waters Act that was passed in 2017 banned microplastic beads from things like body washes and gel soaps.
Fast forward a few years to researchers sharing a gruesome video of a drinking straw being extracted from the nostril of a sea turtle. That footage lead to a ban of single use plastic straws in many major cities and even in major businesses.
Social media has done a LOT to help raise awareness about certain issues but when it comes to the larger picture it can be easy to get caught up in the out-of-sight, out-of-mind viewpoint. However being out of sight hasn’t stopped innovators like Boyan Slat and his team at The Ocean Cleanup from trying to tackle massive cleanups along rivers and in the middle of the ocean.
You could even say its inspired folks like Ben, Josh, Drew and the team of the Vortex Swim, to do what they can to raise awareness- on a worldwide scale, but also on a local scale through their personal choices. (Make sure to watch my interview with Josh here.)
Ultimately, I think that is where change has to start- on a personal level. It’s hard to start making those changes and you have to want it! Is it easier to stop by the grocery store and pick up a premade dinner that’s wrapped in plastic? Of course. But when I think back to how I felt last time I visited my favorite beaches and found the sand littered with plastic, each incoming wave adding more and more pieces- that crushing feeling makes me think twice.
Sure I wasn’t the one putting trash directly in the water, but I wasn’t doing anything to stop it. I LOVE the ocean and our aquatic ecosystems and I want these wonderful places I grew up enjoying to still be beautiful and enjoyable through time. So yes, maybe it is time for me to start doing something more than just shopping with reusable bags. Maybe it’s time for me to start raising my voice and creating awareness.
After all, if as a society we managed to switch from paper to plastic in a few short years, I have every hope we can reduce our dependence on it.
** This 2019 study estimates that the average human ingests about 5 grams or a credit card’s worth of plastic each week from what we eat, drink and the products we use. To see the study click here.
Ice Shelf in Antarctica
Image from https://sites.uci.edu/morlighem/bedmachine-antarctica/
Have you ever thought about the land underneath Antarctica's ice?
Prior to the news of the discovery of the deepest point on land I hadn't given much thought to the fact that there's land underneath the ice mass covering Antarctica but researchers around the world have been for the past 6 years.
Previously scientists flew planes over small areas at a time and using radar were able to get someone accurate images Of areas which they were able to stitch together into a full map of Antarctica, but 6 years ago scientists began to develop the BedMachine in order to better study the bedrock of Antarctica.
This new process creates a much more accurate map by utilizing data from the previous radar measurements, seismic measurements, and ice movement measurements.
Much of the continent is covered with ice and glaciers that have carved deep narrow grooves in the land below. Those trenches were so narrow previous surveys couldn't get accurate depth readings because the radar would bounce off the ice walls.
Thanks to the BedMachine's ability to zoom in to certain areas the research team even discovered the deepest point on land - ~2.17 miles below the Denman glacier.
They have also been able to identify previously unknown features which they believe impact the movement of glaciers above them and may impact the glaciers response to climate change.
Antarctica's glaciers hold 90% of the world's freshwater so as the Earth and oceans warm glacial melting can have major impacts. Read more here https://www.waterloggedlife.com/blog/2019/7/28/thinking-outside-the-box-louisiana-is-planning-for-the-future
#blog #news #sealevelrise #waterlogged #newcontent #BedMachine #BedMachineAntarctica #Antarctica #water #glacier #glaciers #frozen #map #canyon #icemelt #science #climatechange #globalwarming #oceanwarming #ocean #research #scicomm #wisskomm #Denman #land #radar #mapping #modeling
Falling Ocean Oxygen levels
The IUCN just released a study- "Ocean Deoxygenation: Everyone's Problem" that paints a grim picture of our oceans future.
Here are some of the facts:
-Loss of ocean O2 is attributed to 2 causes:
1. Eutrophication (largely caused by run off) and deposition of nitrogen (burning of fossil fuels)
2. Ocean warming
- With management, eutrophication driven hypoxia can be improved.
- Marine organisms are impacted:
1. Feeding behavior
2. Distribution
3. Growth and lifecycle changes
- Global ocean oxygen content has decreased 1 to 2% since the mid 20th century.
-Ocean warming likely explains 50% of the 02 loss in the top 1000 m of the ocean.
- Ocean circulation is slowing due to increased temperature and in turn is causing less oxygenated mixing, especially in deeper waters.
- Naturally occurring Low Oxygen Zones (LOZ's) are expanding and previously non-existed LOZ's are cropping up in oceans worldwide.
-Ocean Deoxygenation Is everyone's problem as it has the potential to influence weather, crop success, food supplies, and water supplies, which affect people everywhere.
Want to learn more or read the whole article? Check it out here:
https://www.iucn.org/theme/marine-and-polar/our-work/climate-change-and-oceans/ocean-deoxygenation
#IUCN #OceanDeoxygenation #LOZ #People #world #ocean #oceans #sealife #animals #scicomm #oxygen #O2 #hypoxic #water #mixing #study #eutrophication #oceanwarming #climatechange #oceanacidification #research #waterlogged #water #waterloggedlife #greenhousegas #bethechange #wisskomm #problem #aware
Image from: https://ian.macky.net/pat/map/us/la/la.html
What would you do if your waterfront property was likely to be under water in the near future?
Louisiana is fully aware that a large portion of their southern most residents will need to move inland thanks to rising sea levels, increased frequency of natural disasters and stronger storms. but don’t worry, they have a plan!
Earlier this year the state issued a blueprint to help prepare inland communities for the future influx of people moving away from coastal areas.
This impressive proposal is the first of its kind in the U.S. and while it initially seems like a very lofty goal, when its broken down into the basic components, it makes a lot of sense.
In the proposal, southeast Louisiana is broken down into risk zones- high, moderate, and low- before discussing ways to assist residents who will be moving out of high risk areas, into “receiving communities” located further inland.
The plan discusses ways to help support the growing inland communities as well as ways to strengthen existing coastal towns with stronger buildings codes and storm water management systems. It suggests that certain public services such as schools, grocery and medical be built on floating platforms. Part of the plan even includes diverting parts of the mighty Mississippi River.
In conclusion, yes, this is an expensive ($50 billion) and ambitious plan to be sure, but what is to say that it won’t be successful. No matter where you are, change is inevitable and in order to be successful we must be able to adapt.
If you would like to read more about the plan, Click here.
Plastic Free July 2019 Images by David Jaffe
Plastic Free July is an annual movement that takes place around the globe. At the beginning of the month, people are asked to give up one single use plastic item for the month, with the hope that one thing will lead to many more and help us to be aware of all the single use plastic we use.
On July 1st, I invited everyone to join me in giving up a single use plastic item-it could be anything. As I have been trying to reduce my plastic intake for the past year I decided to give up plastic in the bathroom- lotion, deodorant, toothpaste, anything that comes in plastic containers. However, after a while, I felt like I wasn’t really challenging myself (let’s be honest, how many containers of lotion or XL containers of shampoo do you go through in a few weeks?). After looking at where all my plastic was coming from- food packaging- I changed my plan. My new goal in going plastic free was to reduce my plastic consumption in the bathroom, and at the grocery store.
I will be the first to admit, it was hard and I wasn’t able to remove 100% of plastic from the grocery cart, but here is what I did:
Make use of reusable bags- both for purchasing items in bulk, but also for my total purchases. Several stores will give you a discount on B.Y.O.B.
Buying individual rolls from the bakery for lunch sandwiches.
Yogurt that comes in glass jars- Oui- is creamy and delicious!
Fresh seasonal vegetables instead of the frozen ones.
Canned coconut milk for my coffee instead of plastic bottles of creamer.
A LOT of junk food comes in non- recyclable plastic bags…which means, I cut WAY back.
My favorite protein powder comes in a plastic container, but I found out that bulk protein powder with some added flavorings isn’t as bad as I thought.
Dish soap is crazy easy to make and really inexpensive, plus you can make it in any scent.
Homemade, preservative free protein snacks are better than prepackaged and 1/2 the cost.
Coconut oil is a great replacement for makeup remover and body lotion.
Plastic free shampoo, is odd at first, but kinda fun once you get use to it !
Buy from the bulk bins for things like-trail mix, rice, spices, protein powder, and pasta.
If you ask, the deli section attendant is more than happy to let you put your purchase in your own container.
These are just a handful of the ways I was able to cut back on single use plastic. As I mentioned above, its not 100% plastic free, but it is definitely a step in the right direction.
In the future I will try to share with you recipes I have tested, and brands you can purchase from to help reduce your intake, as well as any good resources I find along the way. Instagram: @greenmarinescientist has been very helpful.
I encourage each of you to tell your friends and family about your journey and to reach out to your favorite brands and companies and ask them to consider reducing their plastic. After all, it is because of consumer requests and suggestions that Trader Joes has committed to massively reducing the plastic in their packaging.
It might seem like a daunting change, but don’t give up. each little step does make a difference. I can’t wait to hear how your journey goes!
Image from the Afishionado
What challenges have you experienced when growing coral?
Ocean temperatures around the globe are warming up and as a result, corals are dying because they can't handle the heat.
Coral researchers at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science are studying how stressors affect corals. Their theory is that by stressing the corals with something like a higher light intensity, the corals' tolerance to other stressors such as temperature will increase.
Another aspect of their study is to introduce corals to native, more heat tolerant zooxanthellae. Since corals work in partnership, it makes sense for them to both to be heat tolerant.
Make sure you watch the full video by Richard Back at Afishionado Channel here:
https://youtu.be/E5RRIjHMSS8
#coral #water #ocean #coralreef #florida #miami #science #coralresearch #restoration #waterlogged #scicomm #globalwarming #climatechange #oceanwarming #coralreefs #nature #explore #tropical #caribbean #stress #light #heat #animals #marinebiology #bluerevolution #justkeepswimming #savetheseas #protectwhatyoulove #conservation #hormesis
Image from Wikipedia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gulf_of_Mexico#/media/File:Mississippiriver-new-01.png
Using the 3,000 stream gauges, 50+ nitrate sensors, and 31 monitoring sites the USGS operates, NOAA and its partners predict the 2019 dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico to be about 7,829 sq km which is almost the size of Massachusetts!
The 2018 dead zone was 5,780 sq miles , just slightly over the 5 year average size of 5,770 square miles. While this year’s predicted zone is significantly larger than the average, it is still less than the record size of 8,776 sq mi.
What causes dead zones?
Farms and agricultural areas use phosphorous and nitrate as fertilizers for their fields. When it rains, the excess is carried into the nearest body of water as runoff. Eventually the water makes it downstream, taking with it all the run off. In this case, once the waters of the Mississippi River reach the Gulf of Mexico, the excess nutrients act as a food sources causing an overgrowth of algae. Over a short period of time, the algae die off, leaving low oxygenated waters in their wake. Surface waters will still have some mixing, but the deeper water ends up lacking the oxygen that marine organisms to survive, thus creating mass die off events. Think back 2 years ago when the media was inundated with devastating images of shorelines covered in dead fish.
Why is 2019 special?
There has been a LOT of rain this year, especially in the Mississippi River watershed which empties directly into the Gulf of Mexico. Lets look at how this year stacks up to previous averages. The following are how this year compares to the past 38 years.
2019 Mississippi and Atchafalaya River Discharge……………………………………………………^ 67%
2019 Nitrate Discharge………………………………………………………..156,000 metric tons……..^ 18%
2019 Phosphate Discharge……………………………………………….25,300 metric tons…….….^ 49%
All the rainfall that took place this spring had a big impact on the predicted dead zone size, but other factors like tropical storms or hurricanes could also impact the dead zone as the large systems can mix up the water. This is why NOAA will wait to confirm the official size of the dead zone until August.
What do you think should be done to help prevent these large hypoxic events in the Gulf of Mexico?
Want some more details? Feel free to check out the article here or look at some of NOAA’s flood inundation maps.
Images and Videos provided by Hilary and David Jaffe, or by credited artist.