Mapping toxin-producing phytoplankton: the scourge of shellfisheries
Plymouth Marine Laboratory
Published: 14 May 2026
UK researchers mapped six decades of change in toxin-producing Pseudo-nitzschia and Dinophysis phytoplankton across the North East Atlantic, revealing climate-driven distribution shifts threatening shellfisheries.
Keywords: phytoplankton, harmful algae, shellfish poisoning, North Atlantic, marine toxins, shellfisheries, ocean monitoring
Possible Eruption of an Underwater Volcano in the Bismarck Sea
GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel
Published: 22 May 2026
Satellites detected a submarine volcanic eruption in the Bismarck Sea off Papua New Guinea, with steam plumes reaching 4,000m altitude and pumice rafts spanning over 250 sq km, linked to the Titan Ridges mapped by GEOMAR.
Keywords: submarine volcano, Bismarck Sea, Papua New Guinea, pumice, satellite observation, marine geology, volcanic eruption
Study finds viral DNA embedded in polar algae may help them survive extreme environments
University of Miami Rosenstiel School
Published: 25 March 2026
Scientists discovered that polar algae carry over 25,000 giant virus genes in their genomes, with about 40% becoming active under environmental stress, potentially enhancing survival in extreme conditions.
Keywords: polar algae, viral DNA, giant viruses, marine microbiology, genetic adaptation, polar ecosystems, phytoplankton
