New study reveals long-term impacts of deep-sea mining and first signs of biological recovery
National Oceanography Centre
Published: 26 March 2026
A NOC-led study published in Nature found that mining tracks in the Clarion Clipperton Zone remain visible 44 years later, but some organisms including xenophyophores have begun to recolonise the disturbed seabed.
Keywords: deep-sea mining, biological recovery, Clarion Clipperton Zone, seabed mining, SMARTEX, polymetallic nodules, benthic ecology
Partnership develops real-time marine mammal detection system
University of Plymouth
Published: 9 March 2026
University of Plymouth and MSeis are developing an AI-powered detection system using advanced computer vision and thermal-optical cameras to automatically track marine mammals along the UK coastline, replacing manual observation methods.
Keywords: marine mammals, AI detection, computer vision, autonomous monitoring, marine conservation, cetaceans, offshore safety
New vessel expands ocean exploration, marine research for UMaine students
University of Maine
Published: 20 March 2026
The University of Maine's Darling Marine Center acquired a 45-foot research vessel capable of traveling 100 miles offshore, expanding student access to Gulf of Maine waters for shark tagging, marine mammal surveys, and fisheries research.
Keywords: research vessel, Gulf of Maine, marine research, Darling Marine Center, fisheries, marine mammals, ocean exploration
