It started with an unusual discovery on the coast of northeastern Japan. Researcher Yoshiki Ochiai discovered a bluish gelatinous mass washed up on the shore of the Gamo coast. This was a tangle of tentacles he had never encountered before. He collected it in a plastic bag and brought it directly to his laboratory at … Read more
Giant octopuses, up to 62 feet (19 meters) long, were among the top marine predators about 100 million years ago, according to a new study that discovered rare fossils hidden in solid rock. An extremely well-preserved specimen of the octopus’s powerful jaw shows signs of severe wear and tear from crushing hard prey such as … Read more
When you’re sitting on the edge of a small dive boat wearing a thick wetsuit and bulky scuba gear, every movement feels awkward and cumbersome. But when I take a deep breath, I roll backwards into the Atlantic Ocean. The instant rush of cold water provides relief, and the release of gravity takes the weight … Read more
California considering changes to marine protected areas The ongoing petition process could reduce, expand or add new protected areas along the state’s coastline. A decision is expected to be made this summer. More than a decade after the state began setting aside portions of its oceans for conservation, change may be coming to California. marine … Read more