Science
New research has revealed that basking sharks make extensive journeys and use deeper waters in ways scientists had not previously understood.
Scientists have gained new insights into how the seafloor develops, uncovering the processes that shape the ocean crust deep beneath the waves.
Fisheries
The Atlantic mackerel population in the Northwest Atlantic has shown signs of recovery, allowing fisheries managers to increase catch limits for the New England and Mid-Atlantic fishery. Meanwhile, the Northeast Atlantic mackerel stock remains under severe pressure, with concerns over increased Russian fishing quotas.
The UK has distributed bluefin tuna fishing permits for the season, though Jersey has criticised its limited share of the available licences and called for a fairer allocation.
Japan is pushing for an increase in its allocation of Pacific bluefin tuna catches.
Unregulated harvesting is putting pressure on Australia’s sea cucumber populations.
The EU is proposing stricter rules to limit the use of drift nets in response to their impacts on marine life, including dolphins and whales that are caught alongside target fish species.
UK Overseas Territories
A severe winter storm hit Tristan da Cunha on 7 July with winds exceeding 100 mph, causing widespread damage to buildings.
Chagos is back in the news this week, with Trump once again at the centre of the story.
A new fisheries policy will change how fishing licences are allocated in the Falkland Islands from 2027.
Marine Protection
According to a new report, just two of the UK’s 113 offshore Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are fully protected from bottom-trawl fishing.
Ireland is progressing legislation to strengthen the protection and management of MPAs, supporting the long-term conservation of its seas and marine ecosystems.
A new alliance has been created to use legal action to safeguard EU marine conservation measures and push for stronger enforcement of protections for ocean ecosystems.
Researchers are highlighting that saving coral reefs depends on combining scientific knowledge with wider public engagement, creative approaches and stronger support from decision-makers.
Conservation
A Gaza-based marine researcher is continuing his work on manta ray conservation during wartime, using remote methods and global partnerships to monitor the threatened species.
A community-led programme in Cabo Verde has been supporting ocean conservation for ten years by working with local fishers to encourage sustainable practices and protect marine resources.
Increased observations of blue and fin whales in waters around southern Africa indicate that these ocean giants could be making a gradual comeback, offering encouraging signs for their conservation.
Climate Crisis
Unusually high sea temperatures around the UK reflect a broader rise in global ocean heat. Warmer waters are contributing to the spread of invasive species, with Greece exploring new measures to limit the expansion of pufferfish across the Mediterranean. Meanwhile, Australia’s seagrass ecosystems are also facing mounting pressure from climate change, raising concerns for the marine biodiversity and coastal environments that depend on these vital habitats.
Communities and campaigners in Colombia are challenging fossil fuel expansion plans, calling for greater protection of ecosystems and a shift towards more sustainable energy solutions.
While Edinburgh Airport is supporting a nationwide biodiversity effort aimed at improving habitats and contributing to the recovery of nature across the UK, Scottish Labour MPs are urging ministers to allow further oil and gas development in the North Sea.
Misc
This week’s wildlife photos.
“Today, we know that the ocean is filled with the melodies of millions of vocalizing sea creatures, from the crisp snapping of shrimps to the complex singing and speaking of whales.”
“Our heatwaves will get hotter and hotter and hotter until we get to global net zero greenhouse gas emissions and we stabilise the climate.”
“The future of the ocean is still being written. The decisions we make today will determine what future generations inherit.”
