Scuba News-Gazette
Here, we curate the latest news, discoveries, and conservation efforts from across the web, keeping you updated on everything scuba diving. From groundbreaking research and awe-inspiring dives to essential gear reviews and travel recommendations, Scuba News is your one-stop shop for all things scuba diving. So, gear up for knowledge, and stay informed about the ever-evolving world beneath the waves!
- News Digest – April
Recent news highlights several significant discoveries related to sharks and rays. Whale sharks can see in the dark due to a genetic mutation, while a rare Smalltooth Sand Tiger shark has washed ashore in Ireland. A first confirmed sighting of the endangered sicklefin devil ray has also been reported off the US Atlantic coast, expanding the understanding of marine biodiversity.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
sicklefin devil ray Smalltooth Sand Tiger The Shark Trust whale sharks
- 100+ Gather to Celebrate ReeFiesta 2023!
ReeFiesta 2023 was a community celebration and coral restoration event in Bonaire, supported by sponsors and attended by 150+ people, including divers and snorkelers. The event featured underwater activities, a beach reception with speeches and a raffle, and announced organizational changes within RRFB, including the resignation of the founder. The event highlighted collective efforts for reef preservation.
bonaire coral restoration ReeFiesta 2023
- Let Your Freak Flag Fly in Science Communication
Brooke Fitzwater discusses innovative science communication and research on sex-changing mangrove fish.
Brooke Fitzwater Ocean Science Radio podcast science communication sex-changing mangrove fish
- Episode 152 Stoney Cove and Lundy Diving
Gemma and Ian discuss their dives at Stoney Cove and chat with Ben and Sammy from Lundy Diving about the dive season and Ilfracombe on Lundy Island.
dive season Lundy Diving Stoney Cove
- Episode 152 Stoney Cove and Lundy Diving
Gemma and Ian discuss their dives at Stoney Cove while Ben and Sammy from Lundy Diving talk about the start of the dive season at Lundy Island and Ilfracombe. The BiG Scuba Podcast is sponsored by Narked at 90.
Lundy Diving Ocean Reef Full Face Masks podcast Stoney Cove The BiG Scuba Podcast
- Diversity of Women in Diving Survey – The Results
The results of a survey on the diversity of women in scuba diving have been published.
diversity scuba diving survey
- Diving Loreto, Mexico: Over 100 Dive Sites in “The Aquarium of the World”
In Loreto, Mexico, Bahía de Loreto National Park offers diverse dive sites suitable for all levels of divers, encompassing different terrains like shallow dives, drift dives, and wreck dives. The park contains five islands with rich marine life, making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Loreto is known for warm water diving conditions, colorful marine life sightings, and attractions for both divers and non-divers, including historical sites and local hospitality.
Bahía de Loreto National Park Loreto Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Site
- The Official Hotel Block for DEMA Show 2023 is Now Open
The Official Hotel Block for DEMA Show 2023 is now open. Five hotels near the convention center are available at discounted rates for attendees and exhibitors. The New Orleans Marriott is the host hotel. Booking in the block offers chances to win prizes. Shuttle service is provided, and early booking is advised due to limited availability. Registration opens in July.
DEMA News DEMA Show 2023 hotel block
- Announcing ReeFiesta 2023
ReeFiesta 2023 is a free event on June 1st, hosted by Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire to celebrate World Reef Awareness Day. It aims to engage the community in coral restoration through educational sessions and guided dives across coral nursery sites. Participants will gather for an evening celebration at Buddy Dive beach. Registration is required, and spots are limited.
Community coral restoration News - Reef Renewal Bonaire ReeFiesta 2023
- Avoid These 3 Common Scuba Diving Mistakes as a New Diver
New scuba divers should avoid common mistakes to ensure safety and enjoyment. Three key mistakes and their prevention tips are outlined in the article.
new diver safety scuba diving mistakes
- Episode 151 Saltanat Khan
Gemma and Ian interview Saltanat Khan, a new scuba diver from India who uses creative means like videos and podcasts to raise awareness about ocean conservation. Saltanat believes diving is a way to combine her philosophical and creative interests.
India Saltanat Khan scuba diving
- Episode 151 Saltanat Khan
Saltanat Khan, a new diver in India, combines her love for philosophy and creativity with scuba diving, using videos, podcasts, memes, and underwater photos to raise awareness about ocean conservation.
conservation podcast Saltanat Khan scuba diving The BiG Scuba Podcast
- Episode #85 Robbie Schmittner – “Understanding the Caves of Yucatan”
Renowned cave explorer Robbie Schmittner shares insights on cave exploration in the Yucatan, having mapped extensive flooded passages, linking large cave systems. Robbie discusses his cave diving experiences, theories on cave formation, and the use of rebreathers in cave exploration.
cave exploration Robbie Schmittner Sidemount Pros - Podcast Yucatan
- Great Eggcase Hunt Australia Launched
The Great Eggcase Hunt has been launched in Australia, encouraging people to find and document eggcases along the coastline. This initiative invites everyone, from casual beachgoers to experienced divers, to participate and learn about the different types of eggcases found in the ocean. New identification guides will help people recognize the diverse species of these eggcases.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
divers eggcase ocean The Shark Trust
- Episode 150 Claire Giner The 2 Minute Foundation
Claire Giner, from The 2 Minute Foundation, is passionate about marine conservation and ocean habitats, being a surfer and Divemaster. She loves working with communities to keep oceans clean and is an educator on environmental activism and beach preservation.
Claire Giner Marine Conservation podcast The 2 Minute Foundation The BiG Scuba Podcast
- Privacy Policy
The Shark Trust takes your privacy seriously and promises to keep your personal data secure. They collect only the information necessary for your needs, such as for memberships or donations, and they will only keep data for as long as legally required. You have the right to request corrections or ask for your data to be deleted at any time.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
data privacy sharks The Shark Trust
- Re-introducing Humboldt Explorer
The Humboldt Explorer has been renovated and is available for diving at a cost of $3,995 this summer.
Read the entire article at scubadiverlife.com
Humboldt Explorer renovated Scuba Diver Life
- Speaking Up For The Ocean Toolkit
The "Speaking Up For The Ocean Toolkit" is created to help educators and conservationists communicate effectively about marine and shark issues. It focuses on identifying problems while providing hope for change, using metaphors, and celebrating marine life, particularly sharks and rays. Although the toolkit centers on sharks, the strategies can be applied to various marine conservation topics.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation ocean sharks The Shark Trust
- What is a Shark?
Sharks are unique creatures that differ from other fish in many ways. They are important predators in the ocean, contributing to the balance of marine life. Understanding sharks is vital for their conservation and the health of ocean ecosystems.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
ocean predators sharks The Shark Trust
- How We’re Funded
The Shark Trust relies on support from various sources to fund its conservation efforts for sharks. Most of their funding comes from grants and donations, which help sustain long-term projects like improving policies against shark finning. Contributions from members and businesses are crucial for making meaningful changes in ocean conservation.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation funding sharks The Shark Trust
- Do you offer internships & work experience?
The Shark Trust occasionally offers in-house internships and work experience, but these opportunities are limited by staff capacity and desk space. Interested individuals are encouraged to explore available volunteering options to support shark conservation efforts.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
internships The Shark Trust volunteering work experience
- Great Eggcase Hunt Poem by ChatGPT
The poem written for the Great Eggcase Hunt highlights the importance of understanding and protecting sharks in their ocean habitat. It invites participants to search for shark eggcases, promoting awareness and knowledge about these majestic creatures. Through this collaborative effort, divers and beachgoers can contribute to marine conservation and learn more about the ocean's ecosystems.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
eggcases ocean sharks The Shark Trust
- Shark Shorts
The "Shark Shorts" video series from The Shark Trust explains basic facts about sharks and their importance in the ocean. It covers topics like the differences between sharks and other fish, as well as the impact of overfishing on their populations. Understanding these facts can help in efforts to protect sharks and conserve marine ecosystems.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
ocean Overfishing sharks The Shark Trust
- Posters and Leaflets
Raising awareness about sharks is crucial for their protection in the oceans. The Shark Trust offers various downloadable resources like posters and leaflets to help people learn about shark species and conservation efforts. These materials aim to inform the public and promote shark welfare.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation resources sharks The Shark Trust
- Stranded Shark at Lepe Beach, Solent. Shark Trust Statement
A Smalltooth Sandtiger shark washed up at Lepe Beach in the Solent on March 18, 2023. This species is globally vulnerable and rarely seen in this area, making the sighting significant. Unfortunately, the shark was butchered overnight, and the head, crucial for research, was removed.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
Smalltooth Sandtiger Solent The Shark Trust vulnerable
- How Deep is Scuba Diving? Exploring Depths and Safety Tips
Scuba diving depths, safety tips, preparation for dives.
Read the entire article at scubadiverlife.com
preparation safety tips Scuba Diver Life Scuba diving depths
- Episode 146 Dive the Mary Rose 4D
The Dive the Mary Rose 4D is a new 4D immersive theatre experience celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Mary Rose Trust, offering an immersive dive into the story of the Mary Rose's recovery.
Dive the Mary Rose 4D immersive theatre Mary Rose Trust podcast The BiG Scuba Podcast
- Australia’s Best Local Diving
During the pandemic, Australians realized the quality of local diving. With borders reopening, it's time to showcase these hidden gems to the global diving community.
Read the entire article at scubadiverlife.com
Australia diving locals Scuba Diver Life
- News Digest – January
In January, there were several important shark-related news stories. Volunteers are needed to document sharks and rays off the Welsh coast, while scientists have sequenced the genomes of endangered sharks to learn more about them. A study warns that the extinction of sharks and rays could have serious impacts on marine ecosystems, and in the UK, a bill to protect sharks by banning the trade of shark fins has passed an important step in Parliament.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation endangered sharks The Shark Trust
- Celebrate 50 Years of Spectacular National Marine Sanctuaries
Fifty years ago, the United States established a network of national marine sanctuaries, marking a milestone in ocean conservation efforts.
Read the entire article at scubadiverlife.com
national marine sanctuaries Scuba Diver Life United States
- Flexible Flights Airfare Offer from Explorer Ventures Fleet
Explorer Ventures Fleet, flexible flights offer
Read the entire article at scubadiverlife.com
Explorer Ventures Fleet Scuba Diver Life
- For The Love of Sharks
In July, a celebration titled "For The Love of Sharks" gathered speakers and supporters to raise awareness about shark conservation. The event featured inspiring stories, a film about the mako shark sculpture, and a call to protect the Shortfin Mako by urging attendees to retweet a plea for a fishing ban. Attendees left feeling motivated about the importance of preserving shark species and the marine environment.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation marine sharks The Shark Trust
- 5 Extraordinary Connections Sharks Share with Other Animals
Sharks have remarkable connections with various marine animals that highlight their importance in ocean ecosystems. For example, baby Zebra Sharks mimic banded seasnakes to avoid predators, and Tiger Sharks help protect seagrass by keeping Green Turtles from overgrazing. Additionally, filter-feeding sharks rely on plankton for food, while Greenland Sharks have a unique relationship with copepods that can help them find prey even when they lose eyesight.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
ecosystems ocean sharks The Shark Trust
- Unusual Sharks
The article highlights five unusual shark species, celebrating their unique adaptations and behaviors. These sharks illustrate the diversity and mystery of the ocean's top predators, making them fascinating subjects for scuba divers and marine enthusiasts.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
ocean scuba diving sharks The Shark Trust
- Behind the Designs: LOVE SHARKS Calendar
The LOVE SHARKS Calendar features a different shark each month, highlighting their beauty and diversity. It includes colorful illustrations and fun facts to raise awareness about sharks. The calendar aims to promote shark conservation and celebrate these amazing ocean creatures.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation ocean sharks The Shark Trust
- Shark Awareness Day
Shark Awareness Day is a time to celebrate and promote the understanding of sharks. These incredible animals are vital for healthy oceans as they help keep other species balanced. Many divers cherish their experiences with sharks, highlighting the importance of their conservation for future generations.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
diving ocean sharks The Shark Trust
- One Ocean – Connecting Us All
The ocean connects us all, just as we are facing global challenges. While COVID-19 has created divisions, the ocean connects nations and affects all marine life, including vulnerable species like Blue Sharks. Protecting these sharks and the health of the ocean requires international cooperation, as our actions in one area impact many others.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
blue sharks international cooperation ocean The Shark Trust
- Happy World Oceans Day
World Oceans Day is a time to celebrate the oceans and their diverse creatures, especially sharks. There are over 500 species of sharks around the world, and many are in danger. To help both sharks and the oceans, you can clean beaches, reduce plastic use, choose sustainable seafood, limit your carbon footprint, and inspire others in your community.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
oceans sharks sustainability The Shark Trust
- Book Review: Shark Super Powers
"Shark Super Powers" introduces readers to unique shark species and their impressive abilities. The book highlights 14 different kinds of sharks, including the Goblin Shark and Swell Shark, using engaging facts and vibrant illustrations. It's not only informative but also entertaining, making it a great resource for anyone interested in marine life and sharks.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
diving ocean sharks The Shark Trust
- Meet Oscar the Oceanic Whitetip Shark
Oscar is an energetic young Oceanic Whitetip Shark who loves adventure and exploring the ocean. While he enjoys playing games, his excitement sometimes leads him to bump into things. He has a close friend, Scout the Shortfin Mako, who shares his adventurous spirit.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
Adventure. ocean Oceanic Whitetip Shark The Shark Trust
- Meet Chloe the Chimaera
Chloe the Chimaera, a Spotted Ratfish, lives in the deep ocean. She is related to sharks, skates, and rays and has big green eyes that help her see in the dark. There are about 50 species of chimaera, many with a venomous spine for protection.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
chimaera ocean scuba diving The Shark Trust
- Meet Wilbert the White Shark
Wilbert the White Shark is a famous character known for his appearances in films and his big personality. He has some interesting traits; for example, he can go up to three months without food and enters a trance-like state when flipped upside down. Learning about sharks like Wilbert can help new divers appreciate these fascinating creatures more.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
ocean scuba diving sharks The Shark Trust
- Meet Percy the Port Jackson Shark
Percy the Port Jackson Shark is a friendly shark from Australia who loves his home in the warm, sandy waters. He enjoys eating sea snails, crabs, and sea urchins, and spends his time relaxing on the ocean floor. Unique features of Port Jackson sharks include their ability to breathe while resting and their specialized teeth for cracking hard shells.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
Australia ocean Port Jackson The Shark Trust
- Meet Angel the Angelshark
Angel the Angelshark is a clever predator that uses her sandy color and flat shape for camouflage. She lies buried in the sand, making it hard for prey to see her until it's too late. Angelsharks are ambush hunters and enjoy a diet that includes fish, crabs, and squid.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
Angelshark camouflage predator The Shark Trust
- Meet Berty the Basking Shark
Berty is a basking shark, the second largest fish in the ocean, growing up to 12 meters long. He loves to swim near the water's surface in the UK during summer, soaking up the sun and enjoying the view. Basking sharks primarily eat plankton and keep their mouths open while filtering food from the water.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
Basking Shark ocean plankton The Shark Trust
- The Blowfish on Chimaera
Chimaeras, also known as ghostsharks or ratfish, are unique and ancient relatives of sharks and rays. They have hard bony plates for crushing food, unlike sharks' replaceable teeth, and possess a venomous spine for defense. Mostly found in deep sea environments, these fascinating creatures have been around for over 450 million years, making them important to ocean ecosystems.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
chimaeras deep-sea ghostsharks The Shark Trust
- The Blowfish on the World’s Fastest Shark
The Shortfin Mako is the fastest shark, swimming at speeds of up to 31 mph. It has unique physical features that allow it to thrive in colder waters and chase prey like tuna and swordfish. This shark can be found in British waters, and despite its fierce appearance, it poses little danger to humans.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
scuba diving shark Shortfin Mako The Shark Trust
- Sleep! Nature’s Soft Nurse (Shark)
Sharks may engage in a form of sleep, but scientists are still unsure how it works. Unlike humans, sharks must keep moving to breathe, which complicates studies on their sleep patterns. Research shows that they do exhibit resting behaviors, such as slowing down their activity or drifting in a controlled manner, suggesting they have some form of sleep similar to other animals.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
scuba diving sharks sleep The Shark Trust
- Sharks Matter – Here’s Why Series (Part 2)
Sharks play a vital role in maintaining the ocean's ecosystem. Great White Sharks help control seal populations, which in turn affects fish numbers. Their hunting ensures other marine animals, like seabirds and swordfish, can thrive by preventing seals from overpopulating and depleting fish resources.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
ecosystem ocean sharks The Shark Trust
- Sharks Matter – Here’s Why Series (Part 1)
Sharks, particularly the Oceanic Whitetip, play a vital role in maintaining healthy fish populations in the ocean. By hunting weaker fish like tuna, they help keep the entire shoal strong and disease-free, similar to how sick students can affect a classroom. Protecting sharks is essential for the wellbeing of ocean ecosystems.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
ecosystems ocean sharks The Shark Trust
