Ocean ecosystems need our help. A new collaboration puts coral reefs center stage, optimizes their recovery
A new collaboration between Samsung, the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and Seatrees is helping scientists restore endangered coral reefs using smartphone technology. Researchers developed “Ocean Mode,” a camera feature that improves underwater imaging, allowing detailed 3D reef mapping at a lower cost. The project has already mapped 86 reefs and supported the planting of more than 21,000 coral fragments. Scientists say the technology could also expand citizen science efforts and help communities monitor fragile marine ecosystems.
Starving seabirds line San Diego’s coast. Rising ocean temperatures are to blame
Starving and emaciated seabirds are washing ashore from Mission Beach to La Jolla as unusually warm ocean temperatures disrupt Southern California’s marine food web. Scientists say marine heatwaves have pushed fish into deeper offshore waters, leaving pelicans, cormorants and murres without accessible food. Researchers at NOAA and Scripps Institution of Oceanography warn the warming resembles past ecological crises linked to toxic algal blooms and widespread wildlife die-offs. Rescue groups report a sharp increase in starving birds arriving at rehabilitation centers.