Latest news with #ZoologicalSocietyofLondon
Yahoo
18-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Researchers make disturbing discovery after analyzing hundreds of dolphin autopsies: 'A nightmare to get rid of'
Dolphins around the United Kingdom are dying at alarming rates, and scientists have traced the cause to a dangerous combination of rising ocean temperatures and lingering chemical pollution. Short-beaked common dolphins, one of the most widely distributed marine mammals in U.K. waters, are dying in large numbers from infections that are more likely to become fatal because of toxic chemicals called PCBs, or polychlorinated biphenyls. These pollutants were banned in the U.K. back in 1981, yet they're still showing up in disturbing quantities in dolphin blubber. A similar U.K. study in 2021 also found alarming amounts of PCBs in otherwise healthy male harbour porpoises. This recent dolphin study looked at the post-mortem records of 836 dolphins found between 1990 and 2020. Researchers said that for every 1 milligram per kilogram increase in PCBs, the dolphins' risk of dying from an infection increased by 1.6%. And with every 1 degree Celsius rise in ocean temperature (1.8 degrees Fahrenheit), the risk jumped another 14%. "Because [PCBs are] so persistent, they're a nightmare to get rid of," Rosie Williams of the Zoological Society of London said. Dolphins are at the top of the ocean food chain, which means toxic chemicals such as PCBs accumulate in their bodies at much higher concentrations than in other species. This research highlights how pollution and overheating oceans aren't just problems in isolation. Together, they make marine life even more vulnerable. That includes risks to animals we rely on for food, along with the ripple effects on coastal communities that depend on healthy oceans to survive and thrive. It also sounds the alarm on other persistent pollutants, including PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which are still widely used and just as difficult to eliminate from the environment. These so-called "forever chemicals" show up in everything from drinking water to wildlife and have been linked to health risks such as cancer, hormonal disruptions, and immune system issues. While the U.K. banned PCBs decades ago, the chemicals are still reaching waterways through old industrial stockpiles and byproducts of modern manufacturing. Do you worry about air pollution in and around your home? Yes — always Yes — often Yes — sometimes No — never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Efforts to address the issue include removing remaining equipment that utilizes these PCBs and upgrading water treatment systems to better filter out long-lasting pollutants. Persistent pollution may feel overwhelming, but staying informed is one of the best ways to drive change. Learning more about these issues and taking conscious action helps build a cleaner, healthier future for all of us. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Yahoo
16-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Artificial reef aims to bring wild oysters back
Wild Oysters are set to be introduced into Conwy Bay after an almost two-year delay was brought to an end by a succession of storms. Bangor University have been given permission to proceed to the final stage of the project and "reseed" a 660-tonne artificial reef. Harbourmaster Matthew Forbes said the project would "finally move towards completion" with the first distribution run set to take place on Friday. Wild oysters, once a major part of Wales's fishing industry, have been in decline as a result of over-fishing, changes in water quality, and disease. It was first reported in July 2023 that Bangor University was working with the Zoological Society of London to reintroduce wild oysters into the waters. Conwy Council's Harbour Advisory Committee met this week for an update on the project. Speaking at the meeting, harbourmaster Matthew Forbes said the reef was initially "above the marine licensed permitted height". "Over the last couple of years, storms have knocked the reef height down," he added. Mr Forbes said Natural Resources Wales had agreed the project could now move forward and 76 bags of oysters were ready to be distributed. Meeting chairwoman Joan Vaughan said it would be "lovely" to have oysters in the River Conwy. Native oysters used to be found around Conwy in large numbers but have virtually disappeared in recent years. Oyster beds were a common sight in the Menai Strait and around Anglesey. The Wild Oysters Project website said they were a "vital food source" for coastal communities and "contributed" to the Welsh economy. The Mumbles or 'Oystermouth' fishery was the largest in Wales supporting 400 fishers across 188 boats. In the mid-1800s Welsh oyster boats reported landing 8,000 oysters daily, but up to 15,000 to 20,000 oysters in some areas. The efforts to reintroduce the shellfish in Wales follow a pattern of declining numbers in other parts of the UK. A wildlife project on the East Yorkshire coast is testing a new breeding technique to reintroduce 500,000 native European flat oysters over the next five years. It was also mooted that oysters could return to the Thames as part of an effort to clean London's rivers last year. Mass oyster release aims to stop species dying out New breeding technique aims to bring back oysters Baby oysters move from maternity ward to nursery
Wales Online
09-06-2025
- Science
- Wales Online
8ft ambush shark 'more common' than thought on Welsh coast
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info An enigmatic species of shark known to be favour Welsh waters could be more abundant than previous suspected, scientists believe. The Angel shark, a large flat species resembling a stingray, is unique because it has evolved very differently to other types of shark. Previously only reliably spotted around the Canary Islands, catch evidence from Welsh fishermen has shown that Cardigan Bay is also a stronghold for this elusive and vulnerable species. The Welsh population had thought to be shrinking dramatically as a result of habitat damage and bycatch fishing, with one study indicating a 70% decline since 1970. A major conservation project was launched in the hope of saving a species that lingers on the sea floor, half-buried in sand and mud, waiting for prey to swim near them. They can grow up to 2.4m (8ft) long. However a new study, 'People & Nature', from the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and Natural Resources Wales (NRW) suggests previous Angel shark counts were wide of the mark. Its authors believes changes to commercial fishing practices have seen fewer angel sharks caught. As the speckled, caramel-coloured sharks are masters of camouflage, finding them on the sea floor is virtually impossible. Instead, evidence from boat captains is the only reliable way the population can be assessed. It's now thought fishermen are catching fewer not because numbers are dwindling but because they are targeting different waters and using species-specific nets. To reach its conclusions, the ZSL-led study harnessed the expertise of Welsh fishing organisations. Co-author was Charlie Bartlett, a charter fisherman from Gwynedd, who said: 'I've spent over 50 years working along the Welsh coast, and over the years I've come to know these waters inside out. 'With their large, flat fins, Angel sharks are unlike any other shark we see here - and over the years I've been fortunate to encounter the species a number of times.' Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now (Image: Charlie Barlett) In the 40 years to 2020, some 1,642 Angel sharks were reported in Welsh coastal waters. A particular safe haven is in an area south of the Llŷn Peninsula. While they pose very little risk to humans, they have been known to bite when provoked. Literature analysis going back two centuries revealed they have a long maritime heritage in Wales. No fewer than 16 different names were uncovered, including Monkfish, Banjofish, Bafoon, Shovelnose and Devilfish. Its traditional Welsh name is Maelgi (Monkfish). The species has been adopted as the flagship species for marine conservation in Wales. Working with the Welsh Fishermen's Association (Cymdeithas Pysgotwyr) and Angling Cymru Sea Anglers, scientists interviewed 27 fishers about their operations between 1968 and 2019. It became clear modern practices involve fewer interactions with Angel sharks, leading to fewer sightings. (Image: Jake Davies/JD Scuba/Project SIARC) Lead author Francesca Mason, a ZSL researcher at the Institute of Zoology's Ocean Predator Lab, said: 'There may be more Angel sharks swimming off the Welsh coast than we previously thought – we're just having a harder time spotting them. 'While this is a good sign if less Angel sharks are being caught accidentally, it also means we now need new ways to monitor them to build a more accurate picture of how these sharks are doing.' Instead of relying on chance sightings, scientists are now pinning their hopes on a novel technique involving environmental DNA (eDNA). This can build up in the shark's surroundings through the shedding of dead skin cells or blood loss from a wound. Already eDNA is being measured for Angel Shark Project: Wales, part of the wider work of Project SIARC (Sharks Inspiring Action and Research with Communities). (Image: Jake Davies/JD Scuba/Project SIARC) Jake Davies, technical specialist for Project SIARC, said: 'With their excellent camouflage, one of the hardest challenges we face studying Angel sharks is simply finding them. eDNA allows us to study species without having to spot them. 'By studying eDNA in Cardigan and Carmarthen Bays, we've confirmed the presence of a range of native sharks, skates and rays - including Angel sharks - in these more turbulent waters where other monitoring methods aren't as effective. 'Fishers today may be less likely to come across Angel sharks than they were 50 years ago, but through combining this technique with local knowledge, we can continue building a stronger picture of their status and distribution along the Welsh coast.' The Angel shark work was supported by the On the Edge conservation charity, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Welsh Government and the Welsh Government's Nature Networks Fund. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox See what's on in your area
Wales Online
09-06-2025
- Science
- Wales Online
8ft shark found in Wales could be 'more common' than first thought
8ft shark found in Wales could be 'more common' than first thought The Angel shark is an enigmatic species with a unique evolutionary history and is known to be present in Welsh waters. New research suggests they may be more common than previously thought. Angel sharks are very hard to spot (Image: Zoological Society of London ) Scientists have suggested that the Angel shark, an enigmatic species that favours Welsh waters, may be more widespread than previously believed. Characterised by its large flat body, similar to a stingray, the Angel shark has evolved distinctly from other sharks. The species was predominantly seen around the Canary Islands, but recent catches by Welsh fishermen indicate Cardigan Bay as another habitat stronghold for the elusive and vulnerable creature. Conservationists had feared a severe decline in the Welsh Angel shark population, citing habitat destruction and accidental capture in fisheries, with research pointing to a 70% reduction since 1970. As a result, a significant conservation effort was set in motion to protect these bottom-dwellers, known for lying in wait under sand and mud to ambush prey. The sharks can reach lengths of up to 2.4m. However, a new entry in the journal "People and Nature" by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and Natural Resources Wales (NRW), could mean past population estimates of Angel sharks were inaccurate. The study suggests possible changes in fishing practices, such as reductions in Angel shark bycatch, due to adjustments in commercial fishing operations, reports North Wales Live. Since Angel sharks, with their dappled, caramel colouring, are adept at hiding on the seabed, visual surveys are hardly feasible. Consequently, information from skippers provides the most dependable method for assessing their numbers. Current theories propose that diminished captures could be attributable to fishing efforts being directed elsewhere or the use of nets designed to exclude specific species. Article continues below An Angel shark half buried in sand waiting to pounce (Image: Michael Sealey/NRW ) According to a study led by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), which tapped into Welsh fishing organisations' knowledge, some startling findings on Angel sharks have emerged. Co-author Charlie Bartlett, a charter fisherman hailing from Gwynedd, shared his experience: "I've spent over 50 years working along the Welsh coast, and over the years I've come to know these waters inside out." He further noted the uniqueness of the species encountered in those waters: "With their large, flat fins, Angel sharks are unlike any other shark we see here - and over the years I've been fortunate to encounter the species a number of times." Local attention has also been captured with reports that 1,642 Angel sharks have graced the waters off the Welsh coast over four decades up to 2020, finding a particular sanctuary south of the Llŷn Peninsula. Although posing minimal threat to humans, it's worth noting that they can bite if threatened. Historical literature review stretching back 200 years indicated that Angel sharks have been part of Wales's maritime culture for a very long time, having been known by at least 16 different monikers like Monkfish, Banjofish, Bafoon, Shovelnose, and Devilfish. Maelgi, another term for Monkfish, is its traditional Welsh name, and the creature itself has been chosen as the symbol of marine conservation efforts in Wales. The research collaboration with entities like the Welsh Fishermen's Association (Cymdeithas Pysgotwyr) and Angling Cymru Sea Anglers involved discussions with 27 fishers about their fishing practices from 1968 to 2019. These talks revealed that contemporary fishing methods lead to lesser interaction with and consequently fewer sightings of Angel sharks. Researcher Francesca Mason stated: "There may be more Angel sharks swimming off the Welsh coast than we previously thought – we're just having a harder time spotting them. A fisherman with an Angel shark caught near Aberdyfi, Gwynedd, in the 1980s (Image: Charlie Barlett ) "While this is a good sign if less Angel sharks are being caught accidentally, it also means we now need new ways to monitor them to build a more accurate picture of how these sharks are doing." Due to the difficulties of relying on chance sightings, researchers are now turning to an innovative technique involving environmental DNA (eDNA). The technique detects DNA from skin cells or blood that sharks shed into their surroundings. As part of Project SIARC, researchers are utilising this novel method in the Angel Shark Project in Wales. Technical specialist Jake Davies stated: "With their excellent camouflage, one of the hardest challenges we face studying Angel sharks is simply finding them. eDNA allows us to study species without having to spot them. Article continues below "By studying eDNA in Cardigan and Carmarthen Bays, we've confirmed the presence of a range of native sharks, skates and rays - including Angel sharks - in these more turbulent waters where other monitoring methods aren't as effective. "Fishers today may be less likely to come across Angel sharks than they were 50 years ago, but through combining this technique with local knowledge, we can continue building a stronger picture of their status and distribution along the Welsh coast." The project on Angel sharks has been backed by the charity On the Edge, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Welsh Government and the Nature Networks Fund administered by the Welsh Government.
North Wales Live
08-06-2025
- Science
- North Wales Live
8ft ambush shark 'more common' than thought on Welsh coast
An enigmatic species of shark known to be favour Welsh waters could be more abundant than previous suspected, scientists believe. The Angel shark, a large flat species resembling a stingray, is unique because it has evolved very differently to other types of shark. Previously only reliably spotted around the Canary Islands, catch evidence from Welsh fishermen has shown that Cardigan Bay is also a stronghold for this elusive and vulnerable species. The Welsh population had thought to be shrinking dramatically as a result of habitat damage and bycatch fishing, with one study indicating a 70% decline since 1970. A major conservation project was launched in the hope of saving a species that lingers on the sea floor, half-buried in sand and mud, waiting for prey to swim near them. They can grow up to 2.4m (8ft) long. However a new study, 'People & Nature', from the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and Natural Resources Wales (NRW) suggests previous Angel shark counts were wide of the mark. Its authors believes changes to commercial fishing practices have seen fewer angel sharks caught. As the speckled, caramel-coloured sharks are masters of camouflage, finding them on the sea floor is virtually impossible. Instead, evidence from boat captains is the only reliable way the population can be assessed. It's now thought fishermen are catching fewer not because numbers are dwindling but because they are targeting different waters and using species-specific nets. To reach its conclusions, the ZSL-led study harnessed the expertise of Welsh fishing organisations. Co-author was Charlie Bartlett, a charter fisherman from Gwynedd, who said: 'I've spent over 50 years working along the Welsh coast, and over the years I've come to know these waters inside out. 'With their large, flat fins, Angel sharks are unlike any other shark we see here - and over the years I've been fortunate to encounter the species a number of times.' In the 40 years to 2020, some 1,642 Angel sharks were reported in Welsh coastal waters. A particular safe haven is in an area south of the Llŷn Peninsula. While they pose very little risk to humans, they have been known to bite when provoked. Literature analysis going back two centuries revealed they have a long maritime heritage in Wales. No fewer than 16 different names were uncovered, including Monkfish, Banjofish, Bafoon, Shovelnose and Devilfish. Its traditional Welsh name is Maelgi (Monkfish). The species has been adopted as the flagship species for marine conservation in Wales. Working with the Welsh Fishermen's Association (Cymdeithas Pysgotwyr) and Angling Cymru Sea Anglers, scientists interviewed 27 fishers about their operations between 1968 and 2019. It became clear modern practices involve fewer interactions with Angel sharks, leading to fewer sightings. Lead author Francesca Mason, a ZSL researcher at the Institute of Zoology's Ocean Predator Lab, said: 'There may be more Angel sharks swimming off the Welsh coast than we previously thought – we're just having a harder time spotting them. 'While this is a good sign if less Angel sharks are being caught accidentally, it also means we now need new ways to monitor them to build a more accurate picture of how these sharks are doing.' Instead of relying on chance sightings, scientists are now pinning their hopes on a novel technique involving environmental DNA (eDNA). This can build up in the shark's surroundings through the shedding of dead skin cells or blood loss from a wound. Already eDNA is being measured for Angel Shark Project: Wales, part of the wider work of Project SIARC (Sharks Inspiring Action and Research with Communities). Jake Davies, technical specialist for Project SIARC, said: 'With their excellent camouflage, one of the hardest challenges we face studying Angel sharks is simply finding them. eDNA allows us to study species without having to spot them. 'By studying eDNA in Cardigan and Carmarthen Bays, we've confirmed the presence of a range of native sharks, skates and rays - including Angel sharks - in these more turbulent waters where other monitoring methods aren't as effective. 'Fishers today may be less likely to come across Angel sharks than they were 50 years ago, but through combining this technique with local knowledge, we can continue building a stronger picture of their status and distribution along the Welsh coast.' The Angel shark work was supported by the On the Edge conservation charity, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Welsh Government and the Welsh Government's Nature Networks Fund.
