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Mail & Guardian

Marine Biology

latest news & developments
Antarctica’s winter sea ice may look barren but South African scientists have discovered thriving microbial communities producing compounds linked to climate-cooling gases.
ANTARCTICA

Antarctic ice microbes might help cool the planet, study finds

A groundbreaking study led by South African scientists has uncovered thriving microbial communities within Antarctica's vast winter sea ice. These microorganisms produce…

4 min read
Great white sharks, tuna and other warm-bodied fish burn nearly four times more energy than cold-blooded species, leaving them increasingly vulnerable as rising ocean temperatures shrink their habitats, a new study has found
BASKING SHARK

Great white sharks and tuna face overheating risk as oceans warm

Great white sharks, tuna and other warm-bodied fish burn nearly four times more energy than cold-blooded species, leaving them increasingly vulnerable as rising ocean…

  • Sheree Bega
5 min read
The second giant squid to wash up on Western Cape beaches in two years was cut into chunks before it could be removed for observation. (Photos: Ali Paulus)
CLIMATE CHANGE

Kommetjie’s giant squid evokes mysteries of the deep

The second giant squid to wash up on Western Cape beaches in two years was cut into chunks before it could be removed for observation.

  • Kimberley Schoeman
3 min read
Call of the sea: Marine biologist Dr Sara Andreotti says sharks must be managed as a sustainable resource for our blue economy. Photo: Stefan Els/Matie Media
ALGOA BAY

Why great white sharks are disappearing from South Africa’s coastline

Government panel blames killer whales for the depleted population of great white sharks, but experts say overfishing is the big culprit that is not being addressed

  • Sheree Bega
8 min read