Tracing the Puzzling Origins of Clinging Jellyfish
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
Published: 18 April 2017
A new genetic study of clinging jellyfish shows global links and possible hidden species. Toxic stings in Cape Cod and genetic ties to Russia suggest multiple invasions, prompting calls for deeper genomic research.
Keywords: eelgrass, polyps, jellyfish dispersal, PeerJ, marine biology, remote sensing, jellyfish genome
Some Fish Quickly Adapt to Lethal Levels of Pollution
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
Published: 8 December 2016
A study shows Atlantic killifish rapidly evolved pollutant resistance via changes in a key gene pathway. Their high genetic diversity enabled this adaptation, offering clues to pollution resilience and possible insights for human health.
Keywords: Superfund Research Program, AHR pathway, toxic resilience, Mark Hahn, Sibel Karchner, genetic diversity, rapid evolution
New 13-year Study Tracks Impact of Changing Climate on a Key Marine Food Source
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
Published: 20 October 2016
A 13-year WHOI study shows ocean warming causes Synechococcus phytoplankton to bloom up to four weeks earlier. Despite faster growth, predators keep populations stable, highlighting climate-driven shifts in marine ecosystems.
Keywords: Synechococcus, phytoplankton, ocean warming, WHOI, marine ecosystems
