The Falkland Islands Government's Natural Resources Department is offering one-year positions for Scientific Fisheries Observers starting January 2025. Applicants need a BSc or higher in a relevant field and a Personal Survival Training certificate. The role involves collecting biological data at sea. The package includes a salary of £28,482-£35,172, 15% gratuity, flights, 50 days annual leave, and shared accommodation.

In the Canadian Arctic, an innovative initiative called the Arctic Science to Art contest fosters communication between early-career researchers and northern communities. Canadian Science Publishing's 2022 efforts focused on community engagement, partnerships with scientific societies, and multi-sector collaborations. The article also touches on the merging of climate justice and open access movements during International Open Access Week.

The article discusses the unique challenges and standards of organic aquaculture compared to terrestrial farming. There is no international standard for organic aquaculture, and different countries like Canada and the EU have their own standards. Certification schemes vary, with most requiring efforts to minimize environmental harm and maintain biodiversity. The use of synthetic pesticides, antibiotics, and GMOs is generally restricted, with some exceptions. The definition of organic feed is debated, especially concerning wild-caught components. The US has yet to implement an aquaculture standard, causing industry frustration. The article also touches on animal welfare concerns and the environmental benefits of organic aquaculture, as shown by the University of Victoria's 'Global Aquaculture Performance Index'. Organic aquaculture is seen as more environmentally friendly and is in demand by consumers, though it doesn't necessarily translate to higher profits for producers due to higher operational costs.

A comprehensive roundup of marine-related news in November 2023, covering a wide range of topics including the discovery of new species, environmental concerns related to invasive species and plastic pollution, and significant scientific studies on marine ecosystems. Key highlights include the identification of new coral reefs in the Galápagos Islands, the sighting of an endangered right whale in Newfoundland, and the rediscovery of a rare marine amoeba. The article also discusses the impact of climate change on marine life, with studies showing potential risks to species like green sea turtles and the implications of warming seas on shark populations. Collaborative efforts for ocean conservation and new technological advancements in marine research are also featured.

Marine community science projects worldwide invite citizen scientists to contribute to marine conservation and research. Initiatives like the B.C. Cetacean Sightings Network in Canada, Assiniboine Park Zoo's Beluga Bits, and the Marine Conservation Society's various UK-based projects encourage public participation in monitoring marine life and environmental changes. Tools such as the eOceans mobile app, EyeOnWater app, and NeMO-Net game facilitate data collection and analysis, promoting sustainable ocean health and biodiversity.

The article emphasizes the importance of crafting a well-written abstract for research papers, as it is often the only part of a study that is widely read due to accessibility issues and reader habits. Dr. Cecile Badenhorst and Dr. Bethann Merkle provide insights on creating an effective abstract, which should include a clear summary of the research problem, purpose, methodology, key findings, and a key message. The article also discusses the benefits of multilingual abstracts and the need for accessible language to reach a broader audience, including non-specialists and policymakers. It concludes by highlighting the necessity of practice and revision in writing a great abstract.

Data papers, which provide detailed descriptions of datasets in publicly accessible repositories, are becoming increasingly important in the open science movement. These papers support scientific discovery, foster collaboration, and make data citation straightforward. They are particularly beneficial in collaborative research environments and help ensure data is accessible and reusable. The article highlights the contributions of various researchers and institutions in promoting and utilizing data papers, emphasizing their role in advancing scientific research and equitable data sharing.

Fish play a crucial ecological role by excreting nutrients that stimulate plant growth. A study by researchers Stéphanie Guernon, Matthew Yates, Dylan Fraser, and Alison Derry, published in the Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, reveals that genetic differences within brook trout populations in Newfoundland influence the nutrient levels in their fecal matter. The study found that trout from shallower streams excrete more nitrogen per gram than those from deeper streams, likely due to genetic factors. Additionally, the shallow-stream populations contribute more nitrogen to their ecosystems due to their higher population density.

Martin Benavides, a PhD student at the University of North Carolina’s Institute of Marine Sciences, conducted a study on the effectiveness of drones in spotting sharks in murky waters. His research, published in the Journal of Unmanned Vehicle Systems, found that mid-day sunshine and low wind conditions improve the likelihood of detecting sharks using drones. The study used decoys to simulate real sharks and found that shallow depths and clear skies were optimal for detection. Benavides emphasizes the need to consider local conditions for drone-based surveys and suggests further testing in various environments to understand the technology's efficiency.

Berries, often misunderstood botanically, are fruits that develop from a flower with a single ovary. Research reveals that berry productivity in the Canadian Arctic increases further north, contrary to expectations. In viticulture, terroir influences grape characteristics, with stable traits observed in some vineyard blocks. Different grapevine species host distinct microbial communities, affecting their susceptibility to diseases. These findings highlight the complex interplay between climate, geography, and plant biology.

The article provides practical advice for peer reviewing data papers, which differ from traditional IMRaD research papers. It emphasizes the importance of understanding journal guidelines, seeking guidance from editors, thoroughly examining data, and ensuring metadata standards are met without being overly rigid. Insights from experts Ellen Macdonald, Sam Bashevkin, and Heather Lynch highlight the unique challenges and considerations in reviewing data papers, such as assessing the quality and sufficiency of datasets and allowing for flexible metadata descriptions.

The article provides expert advice on writing the discussion section of scientific papers, emphasizing the importance of interpreting results, noting limitations, and placing findings in a broader context. It suggests using a structured framework and subheadings to maintain focus and meet journal requirements. The article also highlights the significance of addressing limitations transparently and engaging readers with enthusiasm. Examples from reputable journals and guidelines are provided to illustrate best practices.

Researchers have uncovered evidence of early chemical knowledge dating back 100,000 years in Blombos Cave, South Africa. The article explores significant unanswered questions in chemistry, featuring insights from Professor Ross Boyle of the University of Hull and Professor Stefanie Dehnen of Universität Marburg. Boyle focuses on the efficiency of synthetic porphyrins in mimicking natural processes, while Dehnen delves into the formation and catalytic activity of inorganic clusters. Both highlight the potential for advancements in health and sustainable technologies through deeper understanding of these chemical phenomena.

Automation and AI are poised to revolutionize aquaculture, with projects like SINTEF's ARTIFEX and BioSort's iFarm leading the way. ARTIFEX aims to enhance safety by using unmanned vehicles for inspections and maintenance, while iFarm focuses on fish welfare through individual monitoring and targeted treatments. Both technologies are in development, with promising early results. Experts agree that while automation will reduce the need for constant human presence, key decisions will still require human input.

Salamanders can self-amputate their tails to escape predators, but a new study reveals that the regrowth of these tails is slower under high predation threat. Researchers Dr. Aaron Sullivan and Wes Payette found that stress from simulated predator cues inhibited tail regrowth, contrary to their expectations. The study, published in the Canadian Journal of Zoology, suggests that the energy required to respond to threats may trade off with growth and healing processes. The research was conducted at an undergraduate teaching institute, highlighting the contributions of students in scientific discovery.

The article discusses how the chemistry community is addressing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It highlights contributions from various experts in the field, including advancements in antibiotic resistance, improvements in chemistry education, innovations in clean energy storage, and developments in carbon sequestration technology. The article underscores the importance of chemistry in tackling global challenges such as health, education, energy, and climate change.

In 2008, researchers discovered a 100,000-year-old workshop in Blombos Cave, South Africa, indicating early human knowledge of chemistry. The article explores unanswered questions in chemistry, featuring insights from experts like Janet Macdonald on nanocrystals and Paul Thompson on chemical probes for disease treatment. Macdonald's research at Vanderbilt University focuses on the interactions of ligands with synthetic nanocrystals, while Thompson's work at the University of Massachusetts aims to develop novel therapeutics for diseases like lupus and diabetes. The text highlights the ongoing quest for understanding in various sub-disciplines of chemistry.

Lakes and rivers globally attract millions of visitors annually, supporting recreational activities that enhance health and wellbeing. However, these activities can negatively impact waterbodies. Dr. Markus Venohr's study, published in Environmental Reviews, emphasizes the need to manage social and environmental aspects of freshwater recreation synergistically. The study identifies gaps in understanding the impacts of recreation on freshwater environments and proposes a two-part framework to address these issues. The ongoing AQUATAG project aims to quantify recreational use and its environmental impacts in Germany, with social media data playing a crucial role in future research.

The article discusses the importance of including non-academic peer reviewers in the scientific publication process, emphasizing that community knowledge and lived experiences can complement traditional academic reviews. It highlights the need for flexibility in publication systems to accommodate non-academic reviewers and addresses the potential benefits and challenges of this inclusive approach. Examples include the cod collapse in Newfoundland and Labrador, where local knowledge could have provided critical insights. The article advocates for a balanced peer review process that values multiple ways of knowing, ultimately benefiting knowledge generation.

In celebration of Sea Otter Awareness Week, six recent studies highlight various aspects of sea otter biology and ecology. Research from Simon Fraser University indicates that indigenous people in British Columbia historically limited sea otter populations near their settlements. A study from the USGS Alaska Science Center reveals that Southeast Alaskan sea otters have individual diet preferences but consistently eat the same foods year-round. University of California Davis researchers found that toxins from harmful algal blooms increase the risk of cardiac disease in sea otters. An analysis by Alaska Veterinary Pathology Services shows that streptococcosis is the leading cause of death among Alaskan sea otters. A study suggests that Oregon could support around 4,500 sea otters if reintroduced. Lastly, research indicates that sea otters help maintain kelp forests by preying on sea urchins, although they avoid urchin barrens due to the low nutritional value of the urchins there.

The article provides expert advice on creating effective tables for scientific research, emphasizing the importance of clarity, detail, and appropriate use. Dr. Brian Beres and Dr. Wendy Ward offer guidelines on when to use tables, how to ensure they stand alone, and the importance of avoiding clutter. Key examples from recent research papers are used to illustrate best practices.

Effective scientific titles are crucial for capturing the attention of readers and accurately representing the content of research papers. Experts from various Canadian scientific journals emphasize the importance of avoiding overgeneralization, highlighting key information, and maintaining conciseness. They suggest that titles should be clear, informative, and relevant to the target audience, while also being mindful of word limits. Examples from the Canadian Journal of Earth Sciences and the Canadian Journal of Plant Science illustrate these principles in practice.

Dr. Victoria Metcalf discusses the importance of effective research communication in influencing policy making, emphasizing the need for clear and concise briefing notes to inform decision-makers. She outlines the various contexts in which briefing notes are used, the importance of understanding the decision-making process, and the strategic timing of delivering these notes. Metcalf also addresses the challenges of achieving policy influence and the interplay between the supply and demand for research evidence in policy making. The article references a report by the International Network for the Availability of Scientific Publications on evidence-informed policymaking.

Around 24 percent of the world's sandy shorelines erode annually, posing significant financial and infrastructural challenges. Cutting-edge research in Israel, led by Haggai Eyal and supervised by Professors Nadav Lensky and Yehouda Enzel, focuses on understanding coastal erosion and sediment transport in the Dead Sea. Utilizing advanced technologies like Nortek's Signature1000 and Aquadopp 300 m current meter, the study reveals that wave action, rather than currents, primarily dictates sediment transport. The findings, published in Geophysical Research Letters, offer insights applicable to global coastal erosion challenges and aid in designing effective boulder-based breakwaters.

Canada is making significant strides in the open data movement, with 292 open access journals identified and multiple sectors embracing open data practices. Government policies are promoting open access to research outputs, though cost-related barriers exist for authors. The federal government provides over 30,000 datasets through its Open Data Portal, covering diverse topics. Open data is seen as a tool to build citizen trust, strengthen democracy, and improve community outcomes. The transition from 'secure by default' to 'open by default' is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of privacy, security, and ethical considerations. Representation and community engagement are crucial for realizing the societal benefits of open data, particularly for Indigenous communities, with the OCAP principles being essential for working with these groups. The future of data aims to be not just more open but also more just.

The article discusses the intersection of climate justice and open access, emphasizing the importance of equitable knowledge sharing to address the unequal impacts of climate change. It highlights the role of open access in making scientific research publicly available, particularly for communities and Indigenous knowledge holders who are often excluded due to paywalls. The article underscores the need for diverse voices and knowledge systems in tackling climate and biodiversity crises and calls for the protection of community rights in open research. Key figures include Dr. Allyson Menzies and Dr. Andrea Bryndum-Buchholz, who advocate for the integration of Indigenous knowledge in policy and decision-making.

Open data is crucial in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, supporting real-time tracking and transparent reporting in Canada. Experts emphasize the importance of asking the right questions, considering data provenance, performing quality control checks, and recognizing data sources. Open data fosters innovation, informed decision-making, and transparency, with organizations like SkyTruth and GBIF leveraging it for environmental monitoring and biodiversity studies.

August 2022 saw a variety of marine and environmental news, including studies on sea turtle strandings in Brazil, orca interactions with boats in the Strait of Gibraltar, and the impact of climate change on marine species. New species were described, and the genetic history of eelgrasses was linked to their adaptability to climate change. The Australian Bureau of Statistics released ocean ecosystem estimates, while a global study tracked the vertical movements of elasmobranchs. China's dugongs became functionally extinct, and the UK reported increased jellyfish sightings due to climate change. The CMA CGM Group was recognized for decarbonizing shipping, and NOAA and CNES prepared to launch a satellite for tracking marine life. The UK's new Center for Seabed Mapping aims to deliver advanced mapping capabilities, and various studies highlighted the challenges and potential solutions for marine conservation and industry sustainability.

In July 2022, UNESCO released a pilot State of the Ocean Report addressing challenges such as pollution and ocean economy. Studies revealed contaminants in Florida oysters and the increasing songs of Chagos' pygmy blue whales. AI is being used to understand sperm whale communication, while new species and the unique behaviors of marine animals like great white sharks and stingrays are being discovered. Conservation efforts include tracking whale sharks in Madagascar and protecting Māui dolphins in New Zealand. Technological advancements are aiding in marine research, from 3D-printed cameras for coral monitoring to limpet-inspired biomaterials. The Ocean Race initiated a campaign for ocean rights, and the EU's SEASTAR project will use IoT for aquaculture. The Global Plastics Policy Centre aims to combat plastic pollution, and international collaborations are being strengthened through the All-Atlantic Ocean Research and Innovation Alliance Declaration.

Scientists are using geospatial data to understand past, present, and future landscapes and ecosystems to make better decisions. Vanessa Friesen's geological study at Vale helps locate ore deposits by reconstructing volcanic processes. Chris Blackford's work in forestry management uses digital soil mapping and machine learning to predict soil attributes, aiding in forest management. Andrea Bryndum-Buchholz's research at Dalhousie University projects the impact of climate change on Canada's marine biomass, revealing potential decreases in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and increases in the Arctic.

The management of Cloosh Valley forest, dominated by Sitka spruce and Lodgepole pine, must adapt to climate change, environmental policies, and a growing bioeconomy. Lundholm's research using Remsoft's Woodstock Optimization Studio suggests a shift towards Lodgepole pine due to its suitability in changing conditions and policy demands. The forest's recreational and aesthetic value is maintained in the proposed management scenarios, despite uncertainties such as pest impacts. The study emphasizes the importance of considering various future scenarios to help forest managers adapt to a changing climate and policy environment.

Genome sequencing, which has become faster and cheaper since the Human Genome Project, holds significant potential for aquaculture. Researchers like Dr. Hugues de Verdal from CIRAD have demonstrated that traits such as feed efficiency in tilapia are heritable and can be enhanced through selective breeding. Genome sequencing can provide precise information about genetic traits, aiding in the development of disease-resistant and efficiently bred aquatic species. However, challenges such as high polysaccharide levels in crustaceans and the complexity of aquatic genomes remain. Despite these hurdles, advancements in genomic technology and declining costs suggest that commercial applications in aquaculture may soon become more accessible.

Aquaculture has a smaller carbon footprint compared to other industrial meat production, and it can be reduced further through renewable energy. Helleik Syse from Norway's Future Energy Hub studied renewable energy integration into Norway’s salmon aquaculture, finding wind and solar as the best options. Grieg Seafood is testing a renewable-powered feed barge with promising results. In Bangladesh, Dr. Amy Bilton from the University of Toronto is developing renewable-powered aerators for pond-based aquaculture to improve water quality. Both Syse and Bilton emphasize the importance of local factors and energy storage in the adoption of renewables in aquaculture.

Farmed fish escapes are a significant issue in aquaculture, caused by storms, predators, human error, and negligence. These escapes have economic impacts on aquaculturalists and ecological consequences, including interbreeding with wild fish, which can reduce genetic diversity and survival rates. Efforts to mitigate escapes include sterilization techniques and land-based aquaculture systems. Companies like Cooke Aquaculture and AquaBounty Technologies are highlighted for their roles in these events and solutions. Innovative technologies, such as BioSort's AI systems, are being developed to capture escaped fish and reduce their occurrence.

Growing demand for octopus and improved farming techniques are making cephalopod farming economically attractive, particularly in regions like the Mediterranean and Asia. However, ethical and environmental concerns persist, especially regarding the carnivorous diet of octopuses and their cognitive complexity. Researchers are working on developing sustainable feeds and addressing the challenges of full life-cycle octopus aquaculture. Despite these efforts, ethical questions about the suitability of octopus for mass production remain, with some experts advocating for a focus on more environmentally friendly species like bivalves. Technological advancements continue, as evidenced by Nippon Suisan Kaisha's successful artificial incubation of octopus in Japan.

Atlantic wolffish have adapted to survive in extremely cold waters due to high levels of antifreeze proteins. They are considered for aquaculture due to their high survival rates and quality meat. However, their populations are declining due to fishery-related activities, leading to their listing as a species of concern by various organizations. The wolffish is also valued for its meat and leather, despite its unattractive appearance.

Climate change is increasing the risk of disease outbreaks in marine aquaculture due to higher temperatures, lower pH, reduced oxygen, and changes in salinity. These conditions stress aquatic species, making them more susceptible to diseases. Dr Tommy Leung from the University of New England and Dr Robert Ellis from the University of Exeter discuss the impacts of climate change on disease severity and duration, and the potential for increased parasite survival and reproductive output. Mitigation strategies include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, selective breeding for resilience, and considering new aquaculture locations. Early warning systems and close collaboration between scientists and aquaculturalists are essential for timely action against disease outbreaks.

Bivalve aquaculture provides significant ecosystem services beyond just provisioning, including supporting, regulating, and cultural services. These services contribute to nutrient cycling, carbon storage, and habitat creation, with an estimated global economic value of around $30 billion per year. The process of shell formation in bivalves can aid in carbon storage, potentially mitigating climate change impacts. The reuse of bivalve shells for reef restoration is highlighted as a sustainable practice. The work of van der Schatte Olivier emphasizes the need to recognize and value these ecosystem services to inform policy and economic discussions.

The Moeraki Boulders, located near Shag Point in New Zealand, are celebrated both for their natural beauty and their place in Maori legend. According to the legend, the boulders are the petrified remains of a shipwrecked canoe's eel baskets, calabashes, and kumaras. Scientifically, these spherical boulders are mudstone with calcite, formed during the Paleocene era and exposed through shoreline erosion. The boulders have also inspired various conspiracy theories, including the idea that they are alien eggs.

The brown fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus), the largest fur seal on Earth, has a split distribution with populations along the southwest coast of Africa and the southeast coast of Australia. The species comprises two sub-species, the 'Australian fur seal' and the 'Cape' or 'South African' fur seal, which are genetically similar but rarely interbreed due to the distance between their habitats. Genetic tests suggest the Australian sub-species emerged around 12,000 years ago, likely due to migration aided by the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. Despite historical hunting, both sub-species are currently experiencing population growth and establishing new colonies.

A team of divers conducted an underwater survey off the coast of Jersey, Channel Islands, focusing on maerl, a slow-growing red seaweed crucial for marine habitats. The survey faced challenges such as poor visibility and conflicting currents, highlighting the difficulties of underwater research.

Common Nighthawks, a migratory bird species with declining populations, have been tracked using advanced GPS tags by researchers from the University of Alberta and the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Centre. The study, published in the Canadian Journal of Zoology, revealed that these birds, which breed in North America, migrate only as far south as central Brazil, contrary to previous sightings in northern Argentina. The research, led by Janet Ng and Elly Knight, involved innovative methods to capture the birds and has paved the way for a larger tagging project to better understand and protect the species from threats like habitat loss and pesticide use.

Snow algae, also known as pink algae, watermelon algae, or blood snow, is actually green but appears pink due to a pigment called astaxanthin. This pigment acts as a natural sunscreen for the algae, protecting it from UV rays and aiding in snow melting.

The winter four years ago was particularly harsh for seabirds in Jersey, Channel Islands, with continuous storms leading to exhaustion and starvation. By the end of March, 1,022 seabirds had washed up on Jersey's shores, though this number likely represents only a fraction of the total birds lost during the storms.

St John's in Newfoundland and Labrador has evolved from a major fishing port in the 1500s to a bustling commercial center and capital city. The harbour's natural shape, with high cliffs and a narrow entrance known as 'The Narrows,' provides protection from strong winds and has historically served as a defensive stronghold. Despite its advantages, the harbour faces challenges such as high winds and icebergs.

The cod jig, a simple fishing tool consisting of a line wound around a wooden hand-reel with a weight and fish-shaped hook, is used from a small wooden boat called a dory to catch demersal cod near the ocean bottom. Fishers jig the hook in sharp movements to attract cod without bait, engaging in a battle to pull the resisting fish up to the boat.

The poem 'The Bluefish' by American author Isaac McLellan, from his 1897 work 'Haunts of the Wild Game', is shared to illustrate a segment of the western Atlantic food web. The poem is presented under the Public Domain licence.

Hermit crabs, unlike other crabs, do not have hard shells of their own and instead search for suitable shells to inhabit. With over 1,000 species, these crabs vary in size and must frequently change shells as they grow. They often have one claw larger than the other, used primarily for defense.

Bruny Island off the coast of Tasmania, Australia, experiences strong westerly winds known as the Roaring Forties, which, along with gentler easterly summer breezes, carry sand, stones, and pebbles that accumulate over time to form a tombolo, a type of isthmus made of sand. The formation of this isthmus is also attributed to the rise in sea levels at the end of the last ice age, which resulted in Tasmania being cut off from mainland Australia and the creation of new underwater features that facilitated the collection of sediments.

Humpback whales, easily identifiable by their distinct flukes and long pectoral fins, attract many people to Newfoundland and Labrador. Whale watching can be done from the shore, but it is crucial to follow guidelines to avoid disturbing the whales. These guidelines include maintaining a distance of at least 100 meters, not surrounding or approaching whales from behind, and avoiding sudden changes in speed or direction. The article emphasizes the importance of respecting wildlife to ensure the safety of both whales and people.

Salmon aquaculture in British Columbia faces significant controversy, particularly regarding sea lice infestations and their impact on wild salmon populations. The Musgamagw Dzawada’enuxw First Nation has opposed the presence of Cermaq and Marine Harvest salmon farms in their territory. Sea lice, which feed on fish tissue, proliferate in the confined spaces of salmon farms and spread to wild salmon, potentially increasing mortality rates. The industry has traditionally used chemicals like SLICE® to combat lice, but this has led to environmental concerns and drug-resistant lice. Alternative methods, such as the use of cleaner fish and technological solutions like the Stingray laser system, are being explored. Closed containment systems, such as those used by KUTERRA, offer a sustainable alternative, receiving recognition from the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch program.

The article discusses a controversial proposal to allow scallop dredging within a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) in Cardigan Bay, Wales. The SAC, designated under the EU's Habitats Directive, aims to protect various species and habitats, including the UK's largest breeding population of bottlenose dolphins. Currently, some scallop dredging is permitted in the SAC, but the proposal seeks to expand this due to claims of overcrowding and underutilized scallop populations. The Welsh government suggests that opening more areas to dredging could benefit the economy by £6-£10 million annually. However, environmental concerns include the potential damage to the SAC's features and the impact on the food sources for dolphins. Research from Bangor University's Fisheries and Conservation Science Group indicates that sustainable scallop fishing could be possible with careful management. The article raises questions about the trade-offs between economic benefits and environmental impacts, the adequacy of current fishery management, and the potential effects on dolphin populations.