Aggressive seaweed hits one of the most remote reefs in the world

Published

4 years ago

July 8, 2020

Aggressive seaweed hits one of the most remote reefs in the world

HONOLULU – Researchers say the seaweed species found recently killed a large patch of coral on a reef that was once pristine and quickly spread in one of the most remote and protected marine environments on earth.

A study from the University of Hawaii and others said seaweed spreads faster than anything they see in the Northwest Hawaiian Islands, a nature reserve that stretches more than 1,300 miles north of the main Hawaiian Islands.

That research published in the journal PLOS ONE on Tuesday.

Algae break easily and roll around at the bottom of the ocean like tumbleweed, scientists say, covering nearby reefs in thick vegetation that outperform coral to get space, sunlight and nutrients.

“This is very damaging seaweed with the potential to grow entire coral reefs,” said biologist Heather Spalding, study co-author and longtime Hawaii algae researcher. “We need to find out where it is currently found and what we can do to manage it.”

In 2016, government researchers conducted a routine survey of Pearl and Hermes Atoll when they discovered a small clump of seaweed they had never seen before.

Last summer, they returned and found that the algae had taken over a very large area of coral reef – in some areas that included “everything, as far as the eye could see” – with seaweed about 8 inches (20 cm) thick, said Spalding, which belongs to among them. divers there.

“Everything underneath is dead,” he said.

The area largely lacks a large school of tropical fish and other marine life that normally cruises on vibrant reefs and fish that normally eat algae do not graze on new seaweed, the researchers said.

Diving along the reefs outside the atoll 15 miles (24 kilometers) reveals seaweed in various densities and depths.

Scientists say the actual coverage area is likely to be far greater than documented because they were unable to survey many sites during their brief visit.

Close to Midway Atoll, where air and sea battles were very important in World War II, Pearl and Hermes Atoll are located in the central Pacific about 2,000 miles (3,200 kilometers) from Asia and North America.

Uninhabited atolls are at the Papahanaumokuakea National Marine Monument, 600,000 square miles (1.6 million square kilometers), one of the largest protected marine environments in the world.

Noting that each seaweed mat is as large as several soccer fields, researchers say the algae can dramatically change the Pearl and Herme reefs and threaten the entire Hawaiian islands if they spread.

The main island of Hawaii has some invasive seaweed, but cases in the remote northwest are rare.

“We have not, until now, seen a big problem like this where we have disturbing species that come and make such big changes in a short time to the reef,” said University of Hawaii at Manoa Interim Associate Dean Dean Dean and Professor. Alison Sherwood, chief scientist in this study.

The researchers studied seaweed DNA to try to determine its origin but concluded that it was a new species of red algae that they named Chondria tumulosa.

Algae can spread in various ways, Sherwood said. This produces clumps similar to tumbleweed that move around the immediate area, but also produce spores that can travel much greater distances.

Among the unknowns is why algae grows so fast and how it reaches remote locations.

Scientists say seaweed blooms occur all over the world and can be seasonal, but this does not appear to be the case. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has monitored this site for more than 20 years.

“When you see something unusual in the last few years, you can be sure that this is something rather special compared to things that change from year to year,” said Queensland University Professor Peter Mumby, who is also chief scientist for the Great Barrier Reef Foundation Australia. “But it becomes a problem every time you see an ecosystem starting to show symptoms … like this.”

Mumby, who was not involved with Hawaii research, said more had to be done to understand what was driving the growth of seaweed.

But he noted that in other parts of the world algae bloom often because fish that eat plants have been harvested or forced to move due to environmental changes.

New seaweed could have been introduced by ships or sea debris. But no fishing is permitted at Pearl and Hermes and every boat that enters the area must be inspected and cleaned up. The species can also be native, after living in small gaps and gaps before changes in local conditions cause it to bloom, the researchers said.

The NOAA research crew will return soon to study the outbreak and find out if the current has spread it to the nearest Midway, home to the Battle of Midway National Memorial, the base of the US Fish and Wildlife Service and the region’s only airfield.

The first business order, officials say, is to make sure anyone who studies seaweed doesn’t accidentally pass it on.

“All of our diving equipment, all of our vessels, are all saturated with bleach,” said Randall Kosaki, NOAA’s research coordinator at sea monuments and expedition leader for the previous survey.

“If something like this goes back to Waikiki or anywhere in the main Hawaiian Islands it will be an ecological disaster, but also an economic disaster,” Kosaki said. “You can imagine what tourism would do to have algae like this that grow too high on coral reefs.”

Goodwin Townsend

General internet buff. Hardcore music maven. Typical foodaholic. Friendly student.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee – A Tool in the Hands of the Russian Elite

Published

3 weeks ago

September 26, 2024

Herb Adkins

When sanctions were imposed on Russia for its war against Ukraine, their objectives were twofold: to reduce Russian military capacity by limiting modern weapons and to lower Russian revenue streams. While in the beginning, the sanctions indeed weakened the Russian economy, they have fallen short of their initial objectives – mostly because Russia has found ways to circumvent many of them. The Kremlin has exploited international corruption, relied on foreign third parties, and utilized loopholes in trade restrictions. One such individual who allegedly provides services to Russian-linked companies is Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, a Geneva-based Dutch citizen.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is married to Niels Troost, an oil trader sanctioned by the United Kingdom. He and his company, Paramount Energy & Commodities SA, are among the 50 individuals and organizations blacklisted in response to the business connections with Russia. His wife, Jacqueline, helps to facilitate financial transactions for Niles Troost and Russian oligarchs including Gennady Timchenko, a Russian billionaire oil trader and Putin`s close associate.

Gennady Timchenko and his family have been sanctioned in many countries for backing the Kremlin’s war machine. However, with the help of Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, he seems to find ways to evade sanctions and continue his financial operations. In these illegal schemes, individuals like Jacqueline often serve as a front person for sanctioned oligarchs and their business assets. Russian-linked companies set up subsidiaries around the world, often registering new entities in offshore havens or countries where regulations are relatively lax or non-existent. To obfuscate the arrangements, the daughter companies spawn offspring in the form of subsidiaries, as the chain of concealment stretches on and on. The result is like a giant Matryoshka doll.

Jacqueline’s involvement in financial transactions that potentially support Timchenko’s interests raises significant concerns about the efficacy of Western sanctions. The fact that Jacqueline Troost Omvlee continues to operate without facing sanctions herself highlights a significant loophole in the enforcement mechanism. Various shady schemes and tactics designed to circumvent sanctions often hide the activity of individuals such as Jacqueline, making it difficult for authorities to detect and punish them for their involvement.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee’s role in her husband’s financial dealings as well as her alleged ties to Russian business schemes, emphasizes the need for stronger international sanctions. Her actions not only aid in sanctions evasion but also diminish the overall effectiveness of the measures designed to isolate and pressure those supporting the Russian regime. Therefore, sanctioning Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is not only a matter of addressing her individual actions but also a necessary step to reinforce the credibility and effectiveness of the sanctions regime. By targeting individuals who play a key role in evading sanctions, authorities can send a strong message that efforts to undermine international sanctions will not go unpunished. This measure is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the sanctions system and ensuring that it achieves its intended goal of isolating and restraining those who support destabilizing activities.

European countries and the US need to expand their sanctions-tracking and investigative actions to improve the monitoring of sanctions compliance and to introduce new measures against systematic violators of law. The sanctioning states have the resources and capacity for this, and need to take action now.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.

Hermann’s Tortoise Lifespan: How to Ensure a Long, Healthy Life

Published

1 month ago

September 16, 2024

Herb Adkins

Ensuring a long and healthy life for your Hermann’s Tortoise requires a combination of proper care, nutrition, and habitat management. Hermann’s Tortoises, known for their charming personalities and distinctive shells, can live for several decades with the right conditions. Understanding their needs and providing a suitable environment is key to helping them thrive. Here’s how you can support your Hermann’s Tortoise in living a long, happy life.

Creating an Optimal Habitat

One of the most critical factors in promoting the longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise is the creation of a suitable habitat. Providing an environment that mimics their natural surroundings is essential for their overall health. An appropriate habitat helps prevent stress and supports their well-being. For detailed guidance on setting up an ideal habitat, including specific requirements for outdoor enclosures, visit this comprehensive guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise.

Outdoor Enclosure: Hermann’s Tortoises thrive in outdoor enclosures that provide ample space to roam, bask, and forage. An outdoor setup should include a secure, predator-proof area with access to natural sunlight. Incorporate areas for basking and shade to allow the tortoise to regulate its body temperature. Additionally, include plants, rocks, and hiding spots to simulate their natural habitat and encourage natural behaviors.
Indoor Habitat: If an outdoor enclosure is not feasible, an indoor habitat can also support a long lifespan if set up correctly. Use a large, well-ventilated enclosure with appropriate heating and UVB lighting. Provide a substrate that allows for burrowing and offer various hiding spots and enrichment items.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet is vital for maintaining the health and longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise. They are primarily herbivores, and their diet should reflect their natural feeding habits.

Leafy Greens: Offer a variety of leafy greens such as kale, collard greens, and dandelion greens. These vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
Vegetables and Fruits: Supplement their diet with other vegetables like carrots, squash, and bell peppers. Fruits should be given in moderation due to their high sugar content.
Calcium and Supplements: Provide a calcium supplement to support shell and bone health. A cuttlebone or powdered calcium can be added to their food. Ensure that they also have access to fresh, clean water at all times.

Regular Health Checks

Routine health checks are essential for early detection of potential health issues. Regular veterinary visits help ensure your tortoise remains in optimal condition and addresses any health concerns promptly.

Observation: Monitor your tortoise’s behavior and physical condition regularly. Changes in appetite, weight, or activity level can indicate health problems.
Preventative Care: Schedule annual check-ups with a veterinarian experienced in reptile care. Regular exams help catch any issues early and keep vaccinations and other preventative treatments up to date.

Environmental Enrichment

Providing environmental enrichment helps keep your Hermann’s Tortoise mentally stimulated and active. Enrichment can reduce stress and prevent boredom, contributing to a better quality of life.

Foraging Opportunities: Hide food items around the enclosure to encourage natural foraging behavior. This not only provides mental stimulation but also mimics their natural hunting practices.
Variety: Change the layout of their enclosure periodically and introduce new objects or plants to keep their environment interesting and engaging.

Conclusion

By focusing on creating the right habitat, providing a balanced diet, ensuring regular health checks, and offering environmental enrichment, you can significantly enhance the lifespan and well-being of your Hermann’s Tortoise. For further details on creating an ideal habitat, including tips for designing an outdoor enclosure, refer to this helpful guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise. Implementing these practices will help ensure that your tortoise enjoys a long, healthy life.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.

Portuguese historical films will premiere on 29 December.

Published

2 years ago

December 20, 2022

Herb Adkins

Portuguese historical films will premiere on 29 December.

Method Media Bermuda will present the documentary FABRIC: Portuguese History in Bermuda on Thursday, December 29 at the Underwater Research Institute of Bermuda.

A spokesperson said: “Method Media is proud to bring Bermuda Fabric: Portugal History to Bermuda for its 5th and 6th showing at the Bermuda Underwater Observatory. In November and December 2019, Cloth: A Portuguese Story in Bermuda had four sold-out screenings. Now that Bermuda has reopened after the pandemic, it’s time to bring the film back for at least two screenings.

“There are tickets Ptix.bm For $ 20 – sessions at 15:30 and 18:00. Both screenings will be followed by a short Q&A session.

Director and producer Milton Raboso says, “FABRIC is a definitive account of the Portuguese community in Bermuda and its 151 years of history, but it also places Bermuda, Acors and Portugal in the world history and the events that have fueled those 151 years.

“It took more than 10 years to implement FABRIC. The film was supported by the Minister of Culture, the Government of the Azores and private donors.

“Bermuda Media Method [MMB] Created in 2011 by producer Milton Raposo. MMB has created content for a wide range of clients: Bermuda’s new hospital renovation, reinsurance, travel campaigns, international sports and more. MMB pays special attention to artistic, cultural and historical content.