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!
- The Squidmobile, going viral, and the free labor problem in science communication
Dr. Sarah McAnulty discusses cephalopods, going viral, and the issue of free labor in science communication.
cephalopods Ocean Science Radio podcast Sarah McAnulty science communication viral
- Pup’s Activity Zone
Sharks are well-suited to their ocean environments and can be found worldwide, including in freshwater. There are over 500 species of sharks with various sizes, colors, and unique traits, like the Goblin Shark’s transparent skin. Closely related to sharks are skates, rays, and chimaera, all of which are essential to protect as they face threats from humans.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
ocean sharks species The Shark Trust
- Missing Pieces
To better understand sharks, it's important to learn about their habitats and how they are fished. This knowledge can help with their conservation and ensure these amazing creatures aren't endangered. Finding more information about sharks can help protect them and their role in the ocean.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation ocean sharks The Shark Trust
- Fishing for Sharks
Overfishing is a major threat to shark populations. It occurs when too many sharks are caught, leading to declining numbers. Protecting sharks is vital for maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
ocean Overfishing sharks The Shark Trust
- Caring for Sharks
Sharks play a vital role in maintaining the balance of ocean ecosystems. They are important predators that help regulate the populations of other marine animals. Protecting sharks is crucial for the health of the oceans and biodiversity.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
marine ocean sharks The Shark Trust
- Comparing Sharks
This article compares different shark species found around the world, highlighting well-known ones like the Great White and unique types like the Wobbegong. Understanding the variety of sharks is important for divers and marine enthusiasts who want to appreciate ocean life better.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
ocean scuba diving sharks The Shark Trust
- CREATURE FEATURE: SPINETAIL DEVIL RAY
The Spinetail Devil Ray, also known as the Devil Fish, can reach a wingspan of 3.5 meters and is unique for its spiny tail. This ray is found primarily in the Mediterranean Sea and engages in group feeding by forming long lines to capture plankton and small fish. Unfortunately, the Spinetail Devil Ray is classified as Endangered due to threats like destructive fishing practices and pollution.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
endangered Mediterranean Sea Spinetail Devil Ray The Shark Trust
- Adventures diving around Lundy island
Gemma and Ian went diving around Lundy Island, known for diving with seals. They dived on the east side of Lundy and shared their experience on their podcast.
diving Lundy Island podcast seals The BiG Scuba Podcast
- Wall of Fame
The Wall of Fame recognizes supporters who contribute to shark conservation. Many young fundraisers have done amazing things, like swimming, running, and baking, to raise money for the Shark Trust. Their efforts show the importance of protecting sharks and highlight their dedication to marine life.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation fundraising sharks The Shark Trust
- News Digest – March
Ireland is now protecting basking sharks in its waters due to a successful public campaign. Meanwhile, a new visual ID guide from the Wildlife Conservation Society helps officials spot illegal shark products. In other news, a rare Greenland shark was discovered in Cornwall, marking only the second sighting in UK waters.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
basking sharks Greenland shark illegal shark products The Shark Trust
- The Blue Economy and the 100 companies who own the ocean
The text discusses an article by researchers Henrik Österblom and John Virdin, highlighting the dominance of the ocean economy by 100 companies.
John Virdin ocean economy Ocean Science Radio podcast
- Symbiosis
Sharks have various symbiotic relationships with other species, which go beyond just predator-prey dynamics. Some are mutualistic, where both benefit, like remoras that clean sharks, while others have parasitic effects, harming the shark. These interactions are essential for the ecosystem and show how species adapt over time.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
remoras sharks Symbiosis The Shark Trust
- Homer Hickam Author and Scuba Diver
Homer Hickam, a renowned scuba diver and bestselling author, discusses his latest book "Don't Blow Yourself Up," highlighting the role of scuba diving in training astronauts for space. He recounts his experiences discovering sunken WWII German U-boats, leading to his book "Torpedo Junction," and shares insights into his deep-sea adventures.
astronaut training Homer Hickam podcast scuba diving The BiG Scuba Podcast
- CREATURE FEATURE: GREAT HAMMERHEAD
The Great Hammerhead is the largest species of hammerhead shark, known for its unique head shape that enhances its ability to maneuver and detect prey. As a solitary and migratory species, they travel alone over long distances. Unfortunately, Great Hammerheads are critically endangered due to population declines caused by fishing and bycatch.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
endangered Great Hammerhead scuba diving The Shark Trust
- News Digest – February
February brought exciting news about sharks and ocean conservation. Researchers found that using illuminated fishing nets can reduce the catch of unwanted marine creatures like sharks and rays. Meanwhile, a remarkable gathering of spinner sharks was filmed off the Texas coast, and new research revealed that some basking sharks are staying around Ireland in winter instead of migrating.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation ocean sharks The Shark Trust
- George Linnane Caver and Cave Diver
George Linnane, a caver who made news in 2021 for a cave rescue in Wales, shares his diving and caving journey with Gemma and Ian.
cave diver caver George Linnane podcast The BiG Scuba Podcast
- Great Eggcase Hunt
The Great Eggcase Hunt invites people to search for eggcases of sharks and skates washed up on beaches. These eggcases are laid on the seabed and can be identified by their unique shapes. Participating in the hunt is a fun way to help with shark and ray conservation.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation eggcase shark The Shark Trust
- Alexa Fernando
Alexa Fernando, a digital nomad and photographer from the Philippines and Canada, is now based in Baja California Sur, Mexico, pursuing her passion for scuba diving and aiming to inspire Asian women to explore the world and engage with different cultures through diving.
Alexa Fernando inspire podcast scuba diving The BiG Scuba Podcast
- March Mammal Madness and Storytelling in Science
March Mammal Madness is a yearly tournament where different species battle based on scientific literature. The event features interviews with the founder and an announcer, discussing how battles are determined and the event's impact on science communication efforts.
March Mammal Madness Ocean Science Radio podcast scientific literature
- Shark Activity Bundles
Shark Activity Bundles are educational resources designed to teach people about sharks and rays while having fun. These bundles include activities like crafts, quizzes, and beachcombing, suitable for children and adults. A portion of the proceeds supports shark conservation efforts.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation rays sharks The Shark Trust
- Corporate Giving
Corporate giving allows businesses to donate goods and services to support ocean conservation efforts. By partnering with organizations like the Shark Trust, companies can trade pledges for credits that fund projects. This not only helps the ocean but also benefits businesses by introducing them to new customers and providing tax deductions.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation donation sharks The Shark Trust
- Spectacular Sharks for Staycationers
This article highlights the popularity of staycations in the UK and encourages people to explore local wildlife, especially the Basking Shark. These impressive creatures are the second largest sharks and can be spotted from spring to summer while they feed on plankton. It's essential to follow guidelines for observing them safely and respectfully, ensuring both the diver's and the shark's well-being.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
Basking Shark scuba diving The Shark Trust wildlife
- Turning the Tide for Makos
Atlantic Shortfin Makos are facing a serious decline due to overfishing, primarily driven by the EU. Scientists have called for a ban on retaining these sharks to help them recover. The upcoming ICCAT meeting in July presents a crucial chance for nations, especially within the EU, to adopt better protections based on scientific evidence, helping ensure the future of these important ocean predators.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation ICCAT Mako The Shark Trust
- UK Government to introduce world-leading ban on shark fin trade
The UK government is banning the trade of detached shark fins to protect shark populations. This ban extends to products like shark fin soup and aims to reduce the pressure on endangered species, such as the shortfin mako and blue shark. By promoting shark conservation, this law supports the health of marine ecosystems and sends a message against cruel fishing practices.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
marine ecosystems Overfishing shark conservation The Shark Trust
- Ali Hood wins IFAW’s Marine Conservation Award
Ali Hood, the Director of Conservation at the Shark Trust, received the International Fund for Animal Welfare’s Marine Conservation Award for her dedication to protecting sharks. Over her 20 years with the Shark Trust, she has worked to address the significant threat of overfishing and advocate for better management of vulnerable shark species. Ali appreciates the recognition and emphasizes the importance of continuing to promote science-based management of sharks.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation Overfishing sharks The Shark Trust
- Endangered Mako Sharks Get A Break
Conservationists celebrate a ban on catching North Atlantic shortfin mako sharks, aimed at rebuilding their declining population. This ban will be enforced in 2022 and 2023, but concerns remain about potential loopholes allowing future catches. Protecting sharks like these is essential for ocean health and maintaining balanced ecosystems.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation mako sharks ocean The Shark Trust
- Ocean Lovin 2022 – Monterey Bay Aquarium and Jellybabbies
Michael Howard, Senior Aquarist at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, discusses the reproductive strategies of deep-water hydrozoan jellies, including the jellybaby stage. The conversation covers how aquariums maintain optimal conditions for species to reproduce.
deep-water hydrozoan jellies Michael Howard Monterey Bay Aquarium Ocean Science Radio podcast
- MEDITERRANEAN ANGEL SHARKS: REGIONAL ACTION PLAN
The Mediterranean is facing a significant risk to its angel shark species, with many in danger of extinction. The Mediterranean Angel Sharks: Regional Action Plan aims to restore their populations by minimizing fishing-related deaths, protecting their habitats, and enforcing national regulations. This collaborative effort seeks to engage regional stakeholders to create effective SubRegional Action Plans for targeted areas.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
angel sharks conservation Mediterranean The Shark Trust
- Nays Baghai Filmmaker and underwater cameraman
Nays Baghai is an underwater cinematographer and photographer whose work has been featured by top brands. He is a PADI-certified Freediving Instructor and Master Scuba Diver, capable of diving to 40m with and without tanks.
Nays Baghai podcast scuba diving The BiG Scuba Podcast underwater
- 60 Second Sharks
The "60 Second Sharks" series by the Shark Trust offers quick and informative videos about sharks and their behaviors. Topics include tonic immobility, migration patterns of Blue Sharks, and different aspects of shark anatomy and taxonomy. This series is a great resource for scuba divers and those interested in understanding more about these fascinating ocean creatures.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
ocean scuba sharks The Shark Trust
- Tonic Immobiliy
Tonic immobility is a natural reflex that causes some animals, like sharks and rays, to become temporarily inactive, similar to a state of hypnosis. This phenomenon can be triggered in stressful situations or during encounters with predators. Understanding tonic immobility helps scuba divers appreciate the behavior of these creatures and enhances safe interactions with marine life.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
marine life sharks The Shark Trust tonic immobility
- Blue Shark Migration
Blue sharks are known for their extensive migrations across the ocean. Each year, they travel thousands of miles from warmer coastal waters to the colder depths of the ocean. This migration is vital for their feeding and breeding, making early summer a popular time for divers to observe them in certain areas.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
blue sharks migration scuba diving The Shark Trust
- News Digest – January
New species of sharks have been discovered recently, including an angel shark in Panama and a catshark in Japan. Additionally, climate change is affecting the migration patterns of tiger sharks in the Northwest Atlantic, which could impact their conservation status. These findings highlight the importance of ongoing research in understanding and protecting shark species.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
migration shark species The Shark Trust
- SFUPS MERCHANDISE STORE
SFUPS has launched a new online merchandise store featuring logo T-shirts and various accessories for scuba divers, catering to all sizes and styles. Beware, wearing SFUPS apparel may lead to being showcased in unexpected underwater images.
Read the entire article at sfups.org
online store scuba divers SFUPS South Florida Underwater Photography Society
- Ocean Heat and the Zetajoule
The ocean absorbs a significant amount of energy annually, with increased intake due to climate change. The expert discusses ocean warming despite specific weather conditions.
climate change ocean Ocean Science Radio podcast
- News Digest – December
In December, important stories about shark conservation emerged, highlighting the threats sharks face from overfishing. A global assessment revealed that over 30% of over 1,000 shark and ray species are at risk of extinction. In South Africa, efforts are underway to protect 191 species, as researchers and communities explore effective methods such as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to conserve these essential ocean predators.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
Marine Protected Areas Overfishing shark conservation The Shark Trust
- Andy Forster from Dive Project Cornwall
Andy Forster, Project Director at Dive Project Cornwall, discusses his passion for diving and the organization's goal of educating and inspiring youngsters. Contact Gemma and Ian via The BiG Scuba website or social media for messages and feedback.
Andy Forster Dive Project Cornwall education podcast The BiG Scuba Podcast
- Starry Skate ID Guide
The Starry Skate ID Guide helps divers identify the starry skate, a species of ray known for its unique appearance. It highlights important features such as its star-like spots, flattened body, and distinctive coloration. Understanding these traits can enhance the experience of observing and protecting this fascinating creature while scuba diving.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
identification scuba diving starry skate The Shark Trust
- Tonic Immobility
Tonic immobility is a reflex that causes sharks and rays to enter a temporary state of inactivity. This state can help researchers handle these animals safely, as it reduces their movement and stress. Some scientists believe tonic immobility might serve as a defense mechanism or be related to mating, but its exact purpose is still not fully understood.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
rays sharks The Shark Trust tonic immobility
- Jhénelle Williams Ocean Engineering
Jhénelle Williams, originally from Jamaica and studying Climate Change in London, got into diving through her Ocean Engineering program. She holds certifications in rescue and shark diving, aspires to focus on ocean conservation, and plans to use nuclear techniques to study marine environments.
diving Jhénelle Williams Ocean Engineering podcast The BiG Scuba Podcast
- 2021 Year in Review
Frances and Andrew discuss ocean news highlights of 2021, such as the UN Decade of the Ocean and the Netflix show "SeaSpiracy."
ocean news Ocean Science Radio podcast
- Christmas Messages
Reflecting on 2021, the BiG Scuba Podcast shares Christmas and New Year messages from friends. Contact them via phone or social media platforms.
BiG Scuba Podcast messages podcast Social media The BiG Scuba Podcast
- Arctic Shark Denied Protection
The Greenland shark, known for its long lifespan, was denied new protections by the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO). A proposal for a ban on retaining Greenland sharks was withdrawn after facing opposition from Iceland, despite support from multiple nations. Scientists warn that overfishing poses a significant risk to these vulnerable sharks, which can live for up to 400 years and do not reproduce until around age 150.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
Greenland shark Overfishing protection The Shark Trust
- News Digest – October
In October, notable shark news included the tagging of the smallest White Shark off Rhode Island, measuring just 1.09 meters, to help researchers understand their movements for conservation efforts. Madagascar's Whale Shark tourism significantly boosts the local economy, generating $1.5 million, yet these sharks lack formal protection in the area. Additionally, research revealed two distinct populations of Tiger Sharks, indicating a need for specialized management to maintain their genetic diversity.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation shark The Shark Trust whale shark
- News Digest – November
In November, several exciting discoveries related to sharks and rays were reported around the world. Notably, a Tentacled Butterfly Ray, presumed extinct, was rediscovered in Iran. Additionally, a large group of Leopard Sharks was spotted off California's La Jolla Beach, and efforts to conserve sawfish populations in the Bay of Bengal are underway through educational campaigns.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation discovery shark The Shark Trust
- CREATURE FEATURE: Thresher Sharks
Thresher sharks are unique and agile creatures found in tropical and temperate waters worldwide. They are known for their long, whip-like tails, which they use to herd and stun small fish while hunting. All three species of thresher sharks face a high risk of extinction due to destructive fishing practices, and scuba divers may encounter them in coastal waters or open oceans, often in deep areas during the day.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
extinction hunting The Shark Trust thresher sharks
- Coral Mapping with Satellites and Beyond
Experts discuss creating Caribbean benthic maps for conservation decision-making.
benthic maps Caribbean conservation Ocean Science Radio podcast
- Elaine Whiteford Writer, underwater photographer – Scottish salt water Lochs
Elaine Whiteford, a Scottish underwater photographer and diving instructor, is known for her captivating underwater images showcased in various publications and exhibitions. She started diving in 2002 and excels in capturing the beauty of Scotland's sea lochs and the North Sea throughout the year.
Elaine Whiteford podcast Scottish The BiG Scuba Podcast Underwater Photography
- Samantha Falcucci Diver, Science, Ocean & Space exploration
Samantha Falcucci is a technology professional in New York City who is passionate about ocean and space exploration. She holds an Advanced Scuba certification and is involved in citizen science projects related to marine conservation. Samantha recently became a trained analog astronaut and advocates for diversity in scientific exploration.
Citizen scientist marine science podcast Scuba certification The BiG Scuba Podcast
- News Digest – September
In September, several significant measures were taken to protect shark and ray species globally. Bangladesh updated its wildlife laws to protect numerous threatened shark and ray species. A comprehensive assessment in Australia revealed that 12% of its sharks and rays are at an elevated extinction risk, prompting calls for action. Notably, researchers documented an increase in Grey Nurse Sharks in Queensland, despite their endangered status.
Read the full article at www.sharktrust.org
conservation extinction sharks The Shark Trust
