Oceans

Next gen sequencing means a brighter future for yellowfin tuna

New molecular techniques have shown that the population dynamics of yellowfin tuna in the Pacific Ocean are not as we thought. Further application of these techniques may herald a more scientific approach to management of ocean fisheries, and help curb illegal fishing.

From classical to jazz: the rhythms of ocean life are starting to change

A new review of published research into the impacts of climate change on marine animals has provided a big picture view of how important biological processes are changing. Things like migration and breeding times are changing for some marine vertebrates, like whales, shorebirds, turtles and fish.

The blue bottles are coming, but what exactly are these creatures?

Blue bottles have been washing up on beaches lately, but what exactly are they? And are you really supposed to pee on their stings?

Diving for treasure to help protect the world’s great reefs

Amid growing demand for seafood, gas and other resources drawn from the world’s oceans, and growing stresses from climate change, we examine some of the challenges and solutions for developing “the blue economy” in smarter, more sustainable ways. For example, could the diving industry, long criticised as contributing to declines in coral reef health around the world, better contribute to reef conservation?

Eureka! Finding solutions to plastic pollution

CSIRO researchers have been named finalists in the 2015 Eurkea Prize for Environmental Research for their work looking at plastic pollution in the oceans.

Deep under the sea: seeking options to save a delicate world

Deep sea corals are under threat from climate change. Scientists are searching for ways to protect the fragile ecosystems deep in the ocean.

Explainer: ocean acidification

The carbon sequestration service provided by the oceans comes at a price. The cost of carbon dioxide uptake is a gradual increase in the acidity levels of the oceans, which could have serious impacts on marine life.

Research leaves a legacy for Australia’s fisheries

Australia’s fishing zone is the world’s third largest, and the $2.4 billion commercial fishing and aquaculture industry employs over 11,000 people. Research helps keep the industry and the marine ecosystem sustainable.

The good-news El Niño story for Western Australia’s oceans

El Niño might provide the coastal waters of Western Australia (WA) with some welcome relief from the heat.