A pelagic fish family, key to ocean food webs and human diets
A cluster of recent marine sightings shows orcas and dolphins appearing more frequently off the Northumberland coast, while Norfolk Island’s reefs show stress from runoff, dredging plans and El Niño. Scientists warn warming waters threaten coral ecosystems and coastal wildlife.
A body of studies is showing that a blood marker called p-tau217 can forecast an elevated risk of cognitive impairment in healthy older adults years before symptoms appear. The evidence is not yet clinical-ready, but it is guiding trials that aim to slow or prevent Alzheimer’s disease and is being tested in Scotland’s primary care setting.
Scientists aboard the David Packard found Magnapinna sp, the deep-sea bigfin squid, hovering 3,277m below California. The sighting marks a rare confirmation, with prior observations numbering around 70. Researchers describe the creature’s wings, eight arms, and two tentacles.
Major brands and some supermarkets have shifted canned mackerel from Atlantic (true) mackerel to cheaper, MSC‑certified Chilean jack mackerel. Producers say sustainability and supply constraints drove the change; consumer groups and reviewers say the replacement has lower omega‑3, different taste and texture and risks "skimpflation." Retailers say the species is labelled and sourcing follows standards.