Brazil’s northeast state, populous and dynamic
Norfolk Island’s coral reefs are facing widespread disease linked to sediment, cattle manure, wastewater and fertilizer runoff. Scientists warn a longer El Niño could raise water temperatures, triggering bleaching and reef loss. Kingston Pier dredging plans add to the threat as regulators issue environment approvals.
Humpback whales have surged from about 2,000 to 35,000 in roughly 40 years, drawing them into Rio’s Guanabara Bay. Tours with biologists onboard have grown, while researchers study migration patterns and the Abrolhos Bank habitat. A scientific expedition runs June 26–July 9 to map behavior and routes.