Private, nonprofit marine science and engineering research hub since 1930
More than 1,500 vessels are stranded in the Gulf, where prolonged lay-ups have allowed biofouling communities to flourish on hulls. As ships resume movement, these organisms could hitchhike to ports worldwide, threatening ecosystems and economies. Researchers warn this event could act as a global biosecurity challenge and call for expanded monitoring and cleaning of vessels.
New England faces a costly invasive-crab crisis. Scientists, fishermen and startups are turning soft-shell European green crabs into marketable products—from premium meats to pet treats and whiskey. Despite climate-driven spread and decades of grassroots work, supply and infrastructure hurdles limit harvests and market reach.