Coral reefs inspire rare consensus -- just save them Nov 6, 2009
" That attitude was also of interest, Needham said, because in Hawaii coral reef ecosystems are a major draw for the tourism industry seven million people a year who spend more than $11 billion, in part, to enjoy the glistening waters, multi-colored corals, and myriad tropical fish. They are a destination for everyone from snorkelers and scuba divers to tourists in glass-bottom boats and toddlers wading knee-deep, all who come to see the incredible diversity of marine life. More than 80... (EurekAlert!)
Mexican Environmentalists Denounce Beach Ruling Nov 6, 2009
The project proposes measures to address continued beach erosion, but activists say the sand will probably just wash away again, possibly choking offshore coral reefs. The Sky, Land and Sea group plans to file another appeal. (CBS News -- World)
Caribbean news briefs Nov 6, 2009
(AP) SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - Lower-than-feared sea temperatures this summer gave a break to fragile coral reefs across the Caribbean and the central Gulf of Mexico that were damaged in recent years, scientists said Thursday. Unusually warm water in recent years has caused the animals that make up coral to expel the colorful algae they live with, creating a bleached color. (OregonLive, OR -- News)
Column: Voices for climate change Nov 6, 2009
Tears of hope and relief to know that action is being taken from the coral reefs of the Maldives to the top of Mount Everest, from China to right here in Massachusetts. Tears of hope that perhaps our voices will be loud enough and strong enough to catch the attention of world leaders and bring real and lasting change. (Hudson Sun, MA)
Coral reef troubles warn of disaster Nov 5, 2009
But none of these are declining as rapidly as coral reefs. By revealing what could be in store for other natural systems, reefs resemble the proverbial canary in a coal mine. (Herald Online, SC -- Opinion)
Calm before the spawn: Climate change and coral spawning Nov 4, 2009
What's the point of setting up marine reserves to protect coral reefs from pollution, ship groundings and overfishing if climate change could cause far more damage. A study published this week in London in Proceedings of the Royal Society B provides the answer. (EurekAlert!)
Islanders won't leave despite sea-level threat Nov 2, 2009
People refer to coral reefs as their ''supermarkets'', an elder of Iamo Island, Walter Mackie, said in a plea to the parliamentary committee. That is where our lifestyle evolved. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Australia)
Investing in planet protection Nov 2, 2009
The sea's bounty: Economist Sukhdev says preserving coral reefs is 'investing in nature-based services ... Recent report put value or preserving coral reefs at $172 billion per year ... (CNN) -- Coral reefs around the world are worth a staggering $172 billion dollars a year to the global economy. (CNN -- International)
Hawaii celebrates new saint, return of relic Nov 1, 2009
Government renewable energy officials announced Thursday they are accepting bids from contractors to do an environmental study of the cable's possible impacts on whales, the ocean floor and coral reefs. "Hawaii has become the test center for how you integrate large amounts of wind and sun," said Robbie Alm, executive vice president for Hawaiian Electric Co. "If we can make it work in Hawaii, we can make it work anywhere on the planet.". (Fresno Bee -- Nation)
Climate change threat to shellfish Nov 1, 2009
Increasing fossil fuel emissions of carbon dioxide, in addition to raising average global temperatures, also are causing changes in ocean chemistry that threaten any creature making a shell, like shellfish, as well as coral reefs and plankton, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Known as ocean acidification, the process occurs when some CO2 in the atmosphere is absorbed into the ocean, where it converts into carbonic acid. (Albany Times Union)
West Africa: Coastal Lifeline Under Siege Nov 1, 2009
West Africa's coasts are home to a rich array of ecosystems, including mangroves, lagoons, wetlands and coral reefs. Many species of fish, crustaceans and turtles make their home here, also a key part of global migration routes for birds. (allAfrica.com)
Hong Kong's ghostly seas warn of looming tragedy Oct 30, 2009
Through the rough streets, wiry men in singlets trundle trolleys laden with sloshing buckets full of struggling fish nearing the end of their lives far from their usual habitat on distant, colourful coral reefs ... They come from around the world -- the Pacific Ocean, the Indian Ocean, Southeast Asia's coral reefs. (Yahoo! Asia News)
Ask AP: Geo-engineering, Bernard Madoff's assets Oct 30, 2009
Also, the artificial volcano, space mirrors and algae growing don't address one of the major problems with carbon dioxide pollution: The oceans are becoming more acidic, which poses a potential threat to coral reefs. Seth Borenstein. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Business)
Donations flow to American Samoa Oct 30, 2009
Scientists surveying American Samoa's coral reefs say Sept. 29's tsunami obliterated some corals and damaged others to the point that they may not recover. Researchers say more assessments will be needed to get a full sense of how the disaster affected coral in the U.S. territory. (Fresno Bee -- Nation)
Human Pheromone Sciences, ACI, Inc. and Marilyn Miglin Announce the Introduction of Their Initial Fragrance on Home Shopping Network Oct 30, 2009
The Company is also involved in research and product development efforts on new compounds that have been previously identified as stimulating the emotional centers of the human brain and have worldwide patents pending on another compound originally found in Coral Reefs. Further information is available online at. (Yahoo! Wire -- Entertainment News)
State to study undersea power cable to link Maui and Oahu Oct 30, 2009
Government renewable energy officials announced today they are accepting bids from contractors to do an environmental study of the cable's possible impacts on whales, the ocean floor and coral reefs ... Government renewable energy officials announced today they are accepting bids from contractors to do an environmental study of the cable's possible impacts on whales, the ocean floor and coral reefs. (Honolulu Star-Bulletin)
U.S and Cuban Scientists Plan Joint Gulf Research Oct 29, 2009
The plan of action calls for shared projects to track marine animals and to study such things as the effects of pollutants and climate change on coral reefs. Cuba has leased out much of its offshore area for oil exploration, which when it begins will bring danger of oil spills that computer models show would flow north to Florida. (Newsmax)
Casting a net into the future Oct 29, 2009
The future of coral reefs looked so bleak that serious consideration was given to freezing tissue samples for later reseeding ... I have witnessed Indian communities robbed of their livelihood by governments giving over their rights to Japanese interests; coral reefs stripped of shells, ripped up by boatmen, bleached or polluted; and listened to Australian tourist orientated fishermen talk at bars of how they hate being told what to do by 'neo-nazi environmentalists. (BBC News -- Science)
International Day of Climate Change rally held Oct 28, 2009
We see it on our coral reefs, shorelines and native forests. As a state senator and as lieutenant governor, I aim to make energy independence and earth friendly programs a priority, said Hooser, who is running for lieutenant governor in 2010. (Lihue Garden Island, HA)
Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary Among Healthiest Coral Reefs In Gulf Of Mexico Oct 27, 2009
(July 9, 2008) Nearly half of U.S. coral reef ecosystems are considered to be in "poor" or "fair" condition according to a new NOAA analysis of the health of coral reefs under US jurisdiction. The NOAA report says. (Science Daily)
* FEATURE: Environmental vacations grow in popularity Oct 27, 2009
Last summer, the association collaborated with the Taiwan Marine Environmental Education Association and Academia Sinicas Biodiversity Research Center to protect a new habitat: coral reefs. The group enlisted volunteer divers to work with local communities in northeastern Taiwan, on Green Island (q) and Orchid Island, Penghu Countys Siaoliouciou (p[y) and Shanyuan Beach in Taitung County to check on the conditions of reefs in those areas and collect data to gain a better understanding... (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- World)
Naturalist lectures at OIMB Oct 27, 2009
Few people know that Darwin began his scientific career as a marine biologist, that he spent much of his life working on the biology of invertebrate animals, and that his important contributions on barnacles, earthworms and coral reefs are still highly regarded in the scientific community. In commemoration of the Darwin bicentennial, Professor Young will present a marine-based overview of Darwin s life, discoveries and travels. (Coos Bay-North Bend The World, OR)
Marine Lab Team Seeks To Understand Coral Bleaching Oct 27, 2009
During the past two decades, it has been reported that nearly 30 percent of the world's coral reefs -- and the ecosystems they support -- have been severely degraded by bleaching ... This means Envisat could potentially monitor impacted coral reefs worldwide on a. (Science Daily)
* World News Quick Take Oct 26, 2009
Millions of liters of oil have leaked into the Timor Sea, famed for its coral reefs and home to dolphins, humpback whales and other marine life. The slick, which has already spread over an area 10 times the size of London, continues to expand at the rate of 2,000 barrels of oil a day. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- World Business)
Frog die-off alarms University researchers Oct 26, 2009
Changes in regional ecology such as this as well as decline of coral reefs can be indicators of changes happening in the world. Chase said the frog extinctions might be a combination of the fungus, elevated pollution and other factors. (Washington University Student Life, MO)
Endangered listing sought for 83 corals Oct 26, 2009
"Coral reefs are among the world's most endangered ecosystems and provide an early warning of impacts to come from our thirsts for fossil fuels, said Miyoko Sakashita, oceans director of the center. Environmental activists are petitioning the federal government to put 83 coral species on the endangered species list. They say global warming and ocean acidification are threatening the corals with extinction. The Cen 00004000 ter for Biological Diversity said last week that the coral species in... (Honolulu Star-Bulletin)
'Freezer plan' bid to save coral Oct 26, 2009
Coral reefs are a key source of food, income and coastal protection. The prospects of saving the world's coral reefs now appear so bleak that plans are being made to freeze samples to preserve them for the future ... A meeting in Denmark took evidence from researchers that most coral reefs will not survive even if tough regulations on greenhouse gases are put in place. (BBC News -- Europe)
Discounts for a Cheap Holiday in Eg... Oct 26, 2009
Liveaboard diving opportunities in the red sea to see Egypt's spectacular coral reefs. The copyright of the article Discounts for a Cheap Holiday in Egypt in is owned by. (Suite101.com)
Humans vs natural capital Oct 25, 2009
Taken together, coral reefs had an average annual value of some $172-billion, he said. Secure nature-based services. (iAfrica.com)
Activists in Delray Oct 25, 2009
"The result you are going to see in Palm Beach County is we are going to replace the natural coral reefs with rock piles.". The gathering was billed as an interfaith prayer service, and Boca Raton attorney Barry Silver, whose father was a respected local rabbi, led calls for all faith groups to join the cause. (The Palm Beach Post)
Samoa tsunamis wipe out some coral reefs Oct 22, 2009
Samoa tsunamis obliterate some coral reefs ... Scientists surveying American Samoa's coral reefs say Sept. 29's tsunami obliterated some corals and damaged others to the point that they may not recover ... HONOLULU - Scientists surveying American Samoa's coral reefs say Sept. 29's tsunami obliterated some corals and damaged others to the point that they may not recover. (MSNBC -- Environment)
Gates warns Japan not to back out of plan to relocate US air base Oct 22, 2009
But the new site is a conservation area, with an relatively unspoiled landscape and coral reefs. Okinawans oppose the base relocation plan, and so do the members of the Democratic Party of Japan whom they have voted into power in the past two years. (Boston Globe)
Green.view: Letting a thousand flowers wither Oct 21, 2009
Coral reefs, he reckons, provide services such as acting as nurseries for commercially important fish that would cost up to $130,000 per hectare per year if they had to be paid for. The figures for coastal areas and inland wetlands that, among other tasks, help filter and purify water, were $74,000 and $14,000 per hectare per year respectively. (The Economist)
Australian researchers welcome heritage nomination of coral reef Oct 20, 2009
The reef's isolation, pristine waters and untouched corals made it the ideal place to monitor the response of coral reefs to climate change, Twiggs said ... "Because it is largely untouched by human activity, the Ningaloo Reef is one of the better coral reefs to study the impact of climate change.". (Xinhuanet, China)
Copenhagen: A new global deal for sustainable development? Oct 20, 2009
In a recent article presented in the scientific journal Nature, my colleagues and I make a first attempt to identify and quantify the Earth system processes and potential biophysical thresholds that, if crossed, could generate unacceptable environmental change for humanity, such as irreversible loss of inland glaciers, a transition of rain forests to savannas, massive destruction of tropical coral reefs, desertification of current agricultural land, and the shift in the Indian and African... (Christian Science Monitor)
Call grows to step up Hawaii reef protection Oct 19, 2009
Critics also say restricting fishing in some areas only increases fishing pressure in open areas, and that, since marine life conservation districts include some of Hawaii's most popular snorkeling and diving sites, they encourage overcrowding and lead to impacts such as trampling of coral reefs by recreational users. Hanauma Bay is an example of that. (Honolulu Advertiser)
Samoa tsunamis obliterate some coral, spare others Oct 18, 2009
HONOLULU -- Scientists surveying American Samoa's coral reefs say Sept. 29's tsunami obliterated some corals and damaged others to the point that they may not recover ... Scientists surveying American Samoa's coral reefs say Sept. 29's tsunami obliterated some corals and damaged others to the point that they may not recover ... Scientists surveying American Samoa's coral reefs say Sept. 29's tsunami obliterated some corals and damaged others to the point that they may not recover. (Fresno Bee -- Nation)
* Maldivian Cabinet holds underwater meeting Oct 18, 2009
Ministers in full scuba gear met on the sea bed to draw attention to the dangers of global warming for the island nation, a tourist paradise featuring coral reefs and white sand beaches with most parts lying less than 1m above sea level ... More than 80 percent of the tiny atoll nation, famed as a tourist paradise due to its coral reefs and white-sand beaches, is less than 1m above sea level. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- World)
What are coral reef services worth? $130,000 to $1.2 million / ht / yr: Experts Oct 16, 2009
Experts concluding the global DIVERSITAS biodiversity conference today in Cape Town described preliminary research revealing jaw-dropping dollar values of the ecosystem services of biomes like forests and coral reefs including food, pollution treatment and climate regulation ... He notes the growing scientific agreement that coral reefs are unlikely to survive if atmospheric carbon dioxide levels exceed 350 parts per million ... Negotiators of a new climate change deal in Copenhagen in... (EurekAlert!)
350: Join the largest climate rally ever Oct 16, 2009
On the dying coral reefs of the Maldives, the government s entire cabinet will don scuba gear and hold an official underwater meeting to pass a 350 resolution to send to the Copenhagen summit. On the shores of the fast-drying Dead Sea, Israeli activists will form a giant human 3 on their beach, Palestinians a 5 on theirs, and Jordanians a 0 reminding us we need to unite on this vital issue. (Lexington Minuteman, MA)
'THE OTHER CARBON PROBLEM': Rising ocean acidity Oct 15, 2009
The film also touches on the threats to the world's coral reefs, which can be damaged by ocean acidification as well as rising water temperatures. Posted. (USA Today -- Tech)
Ten national parks that make for the perfect holiday Oct 15, 2009
Some 105 miles from the Venezuelan coast is the Archipelago Los Roques National Park, Venezuela (Vargas) with 42 islands and sand banks with some of the worlds best preserved coral reefs, sandy beaches and water that ranges from dark blue to turquoise green. And stay in posadas which are small familyrun houses in rural areas. (India Times)
Sexual Organisms Replaced Clones In Caribbean Oct 13, 2009
5, 2007) Coral reefs could be damaged beyond repair, unless we change the way we manage the marine environment. New research shows how damaged Caribbean reefs will continue to decline over the next 50 years. (Science Daily)
The Coral Calcium Controversy Oct 13, 2009
Shellfish living amongst the coral reefs contaminate the limestone deposits which can negatively affect individuals with allergies. Coral Calcium Manufacturing Destroys the Environment. (Suite101.com)
Ring in the New Year in Antigua Oct 13, 2009
Surrounded by colorful coral reefs, the island of Antigua offers an enticing collection of soft powdery beaches, hidden coves, and secluded tropical scenery. At the modern, newly-renovated Curtain Bluff Resort on the islands southern coast, guests can take advantage of the spectacular New Years savings available beginning January 1, 2010. (MSNBC -- Travel)
Bree Varda lagging in turtle marathon Oct 10, 2009
Bree "is south of the Bahamas," in an area abundant with shallow water and coral reefs, said Caribbean Conservation Commission spokeswoman Rocio Johnson. "She has probably found a nice foraging area because she's been there for about a month now," Johnson said. (Florida Today)
5 spots to dive into the Caribbean Oct 9, 2009
In addition to five miles of very white beaches, it also features mangrove forests, spectacular coral reefs, sea fans and a profusion of reef fish ... Providenciales, also known as Provo, is the most developed of the islands and has a large amount of coral reefs, which have made it a place divers seek out. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Travel)
Buffalo exhibitor picks up $4M order Oct 9, 2009
The Buffalo-based trade show and exhibits company will design and create the habitat for a 30,000-gallon Gulf of Mexico shark tank complete with coral reefs, plants and landscaping, as well as several interactive exhibits dealing with the cultural history of America s rivers. Project manager Mike Dann said Hadley also will develop a curved water wall with audiovisual projection depicting the Mississippi River, a 25-foot indoor waterfall, three 5-foot circular aquariums and several display cases... (Buffalo Business First, NY)
'Significant Risk' Of Oil Production Peaking In Ten Years, Report Finds Oct 9, 2009
(July 31, 2007) In a setback for efforts to protect endangered coral reefs from oil spills, researchers report that oil dispersants -- the best tool for treating oil spills in tropical areas --are significantly more. (Feb. (Science Daily)
U.S. joins Kiribati in saving islands Oct 7, 2009
The marine conservation partnership will affect the Phoenix Islands Protected Area, founded in 2008 to protect islands near the equator where coral reefs and bird populations are untouched by human contact ... The marine conservation partnership will affect the Phoenix Islands Protected Area, founded in 2008 to protect islands near the equator where coral reefs and bird populations are untouched by human contact. (Honolulu Star-Bulletin)
Kauai pollution study can't pinpoint source Oct 6, 2009
By identifying how the bacteria enters nearshore waters, water quality issues can begin to be addressed, especially regarding how it ultimately affects Kaua'i's coral reefs, the abstract says. "The water, full of bacteria and sediment, reaches the reef which has dire consequences for the creatures that live there and we subsist on," Save Our Seas President Paul Clark said. (Honolulu Advertiser)
Saving our seas and coral Oct 6, 2009
We cannot continue to pollute the sea with garbage which will eventually choke and suffocate the coral reefs, he said, adding that efforts to maintain the environment were especially important in view of current concerns over climate change. He said that during the clean-up, divers would plant baby coral on special cement bases and transfer them to an underwater nursery for rehabilitation. (The Star Online, Malaysia -- News)
* Food chain at risk as Arctic turns acidic Oct 5, 2009
Reefs in high latitudes are constructed by only one or two types of coral X unlike tropical coral reefs which are built by a large variety of species. The loss of Lophelia pertusa would therefore devastate reefs off Norway and the coast of Scotland, removing underwater shelters that are exploited by dozens of species of fish and other creatures. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- World Business)
More of this story Oct 5, 2009
By identifying how the bacteria enters nearshore waters, water quality issues can begin to be addressed, especially regarding how it ultimately affects Kaua i s coral reefs, the abstract says. The water, full of bacteria and sediment, reaches the reef which has dire consequences for the creatures that live there and we subsist on, Save Our Seas President Paul Clark said. (Lihue Garden Island, HA)
Eyes of the Reef Oct 4, 2009
Latest Updated: Sunday, October 04, 2009. By The Garden Island. (Lihue Garden Island, HA)
Coral Bleaching Increases Chances Of Coral Disease Oct 4, 2009
In many cases, bleaching and disease occur concurrently on coral reefs ... 4, 2009) As global warming whips up more powerful and frequent hurricanes and storms, the world's coral reefs face increased disruption to their ability to breed and recover from damage. (Science Daily)
‘Fish School,’ ‘Going to the Sea Park’ and ‘Life in a Coral Reef’ Oct 3, 2009
The value of coral reefs to all life on earth is emphasized in ;Fun Facts; at the back of the book, although several un-fun facts reveal that coral reefs are at risk today. Very different from each other despite their common theme, these three books share with young children an appreciation of our oceans and their inhabitants. (Princeton Bureau County Republican, IL)
Picking up the pieces Oct 3, 2009
Early on Tuesday the tropical resorts strung along Samoa's south coast were loaded with Australians - Victoria and Queensland were in the middle of school holidays - when a series of tsunamis started pouring across fringing coral reefs. Tsunami warnings had been sounding for about 10 minutes, since authorities were alerted to the 8. (Sydney Morning Herald -- World)
More to come, expert warns Oct 3, 2009
Analysis of structural changes in coral reefs has revealed Sumatra has been hit by three series of quakes over the past 1000 years or so - in the late 1300s, 1600s and early 19th century. Professor Sieh said the current sequence near the western Sumatran city of Padang, including three quakes in the past four years, would build to a peak likely to be felt in the first half of the century. (Sydney Morning Herald -- World)
Lives spared by tsunami alerts Oct 2, 2009
Lokeuaina Luamanuvae, manager of the Maninoa resort, was woken by the quake and saw coral reefs exposed by the receding water. There were 27 guests from Australia, Brazil and New Zealand [at the resort],'' he said. (Sydney Morning Herald -- World)
Diverse fish reduce coral disease Sep 30, 2009
Coral reefs where lots of different kinds of fish swim are healthier than overfished ones, scientists have shown. Researchers showed a reduced incidence of coral disease in areas of the Philippines where fishing is banned, compared with neighbouring areas. (BBC News -- Asia-Pacific)
5 nuggets of knowledge about stones Sep 30, 2009
The Petoskey stone does double duty here in Michigan, serving as both the state fossil and stone -- pretty impressive for what started out as a species of coral, Hexagonaria pericarnata, 360 million years ago when what is now Michigan was covered by a shallow sea containing massive coral reefs. Over time, large parts of these Hexagonaria reefs fossilized and today many of those stones with the honeycombed appearance can be found all over Michigan -- particularly around the northern tip of the... (Gaylord Herald Times, MI)
South Pacific escapes from $480/night Sep 30, 2009
Tahiti: Getaway with airfare from $1,298The island of Tahiti is a true paradise in the South Pacific, encircled by rugged coastlines, gorgeous tropical beaches and colorful coral reefs. Tucked away at the base of Tahitis mountainous terrain, the brand-new Manava Suite Resort Tahiti features a private beach, spa and fitness center as well as an infinity swimming pool with stunning lagoon views. (MSNBC -- Travel)
Combining sun, sand and science in the Bahamas Sep 30, 2009
GREAT GUANA CAY, BAHAMAS (September 29, 2009)It is well known that people from all over the world come to the Bahamas to enjoy the pristine waters, spectacular coral reefs and great fishing. Tourism produces approximately 55 % of the gross domestic product and employs up to 60% of the total workforce in the Bahamas. (EurekAlert!)
UN: Droughts, melting ice signs of worsening climate change Sep 25, 2009
The acidification of oceans could threaten shellfish and coral reefs, the breeding grounds for many fish species. Environmentalists hope leaders will pay attention to the UNEP report as the Copenhagen meeting nears but news about how the global recession is affecting emissions may also be a factor. (USA Today -- Tech)
