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Humpback whale strains krill in Alaska
Humpback whale strains krill in Alaska.

US Rolls Out First National Ocean Biodiversity Strategy

This strategy outlines a holistic approach to understanding and preserving marine ecosystems, crucial for maintaining the country's economic, environmental, and cultural prosperity.

President Biden has emphasised the ocean's critical role in sustaining life on Earth, highlighting its contributions to jobs, food supply, climate moderation, and cultural identity. The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to conserving at least 30 percent of US waters by 2030, addressing the escalating threats of warming, overfishing, and biodiversity loss.

Madeira: Europe’s Underrated Gem of Whale Watching

Sperm whale at the surface, off the coast of the Portuguese island of Madeira in the Atlantic Ocean

In some developing countries, dolphin and whale watching is not very common. In Madeira, the authorities, biologists and whale-watching operators are working together to promote conservation and research. They aim to ensure that visitors can continue to enjoy amazing encounters with these animals in the future. Daniel Brinckmann has the story.

Bumblebees Can Endure a Week Underwater While Sleeping
Bumblebees can endure a week underwater while sleeping.

Bumblebees Capable of Surviving Underwater for a Week

Scientists have made a fascinating discovery about the common eastern bumblebee, revealing that these insects can survive underwater for up to a week. This unusual capability is detailed in a study published in the Royal Society's Biology Letters, which suggests that bumblebees can enter a state of suspended animation when submerged, conserving oxygen and energy.

After hatching, baby green sea turtles in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument hit the water, swimming out to sea to live on their own for several years until they return to nearshore foraging grounds.

Best Practices During Sea Turtle Nesting Season

Various regions are home to species such as the green, leatherback, and loggerhead turtles. Due to their endangered or threatened statuses, these species are protected by law in most countries, which mandates specific conservation actions and monitoring.

Sea turtles face numerous threats, including habitat loss, human interference, and climate changes, jeopardising their survival and reproductive success.

The use of AI to decode sperm whale communication marks a significant step forward in our understanding of animal cognition and social structures.
The use of AI to decode sperm whale communication marks a significant step forward in our understanding of animal cognition and social structures.

Decoding Sperm Whale Language

Recent advancements in artificial intelligence have provided researchers with unprecedented insights into the communication patterns of sperm whales, suggesting a sophisticated language system among these majestic marine mammals. 

A new study published in Nature Communications reveals that sperm whales may possess a highly structured form of communication and sheds light on the cognitive abilities of sperm whales, suggesting a level of social complexity previously attributed primarily to humans and some primates.