The mysterious marine life of green donuts
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Oceans and Atmosphere
Published: 17 March 2023
CSIRO’s RV Investigator explored mysterious Halimeda “green donuts” on the Great Barrier Reef. These bioherms, covering 6000 km², are biodiversity hotspots hosting corals, sea stars, urchins, and endangered species—boosting reef science and management.
Keywords: Halimeda, green donuts, bioherms, Great Barrier Reef, biodiversity, RV Investigator, marine habitats
Why we love taxonomists
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Oceans and Atmosphere
Published: 17 March 2023
Taxonomists reveal new insights into biodiversity, from naming a Cape York violet and underground orchid to studying algae blooms, kelp genetics, and a fire-impacted daisy. Their work guides conservation and deepens understanding of species relationships.
Keywords: taxonomy, species discovery, orchids, algae, kelp, biodiversity, conservation
Join the hunt for shark egg cases
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Oceans and Atmosphere
Published: 20 March 2023
Sharks, rays, and relatives have diverse reproduction strategies. Their egg cases, or "mermaids’ purses," are unique to each species, aiding taxonomy. Citizen science hunts help track them, revealing species biology and habitats.
Keywords: sharks, egg cases, mermaids’ purses, reproduction, taxonomy, citizen science, Great Eggcase Hunt
