Deep-sea worms slither around the bottom of the animal tree of life
Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute
Published: 8 February 2016
MBARI scientists helped identify four new Xenoturbella worm species, primitive deep-sea animals with no brains, eyes, or stomachs. DNA analysis shows they’re among the most ancient bilaterally symmetrical animals, offering insight into early animal evolution.
Keywords: Xenoturbella, deep-sea worms, MBARI, bilateral symmetry, primitive animals, evolution, hydrothermal vents
In times of great famine, microalgae digest themselves
Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI)
Published: 30 June 2016
AWI scientists discovered how microalgae like Emiliania huxleyi manage nutrient shortages by slowing cell division, conserving energy, and self-digesting for survival. These ancient mechanisms resemble those in human cells and relate to cancer research.
Keywords: microalgae, nutrient deficiency, cell division, Emiliania huxleyi, metabolism, cancer, phytoplankton
Tropical coral reefs lose two thirds of their zooplankton through ocean acidification
Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI)
Published: 16 September 2016
A German-Australian study at CO₂ seeps in Papua New Guinea found ocean acidification reduces coral reef zooplankton by two-thirds. As reef structure shifts to massive corals with less shelter, food chains are disrupted, threatening coral and fish survival.
Keywords: ocean acidification, zooplankton, coral reefs, CO₂ seeps, Papua New Guinea, food web, climate change, reef structure
