Fur seals experience delayed heart surges after deep dives

May 09, 2026

Reported by AI

Cape and Australian fur seals show dramatic increases in heart rate hours after returning to land, according to new research. The surges may help the animals recover from the physical stress of prolonged underwater foraging.

A study published in Frontiers in Physiology tracked heart rates in twelve female seals from two species. Researchers fitted the animals with monitors between 2003 and 2008 at sites in South Africa and Australia. Data revealed that heart rates often doubled six to eight hours after the seals came ashore, reaching peaks of 84 beats per minute before settling into a calmer range associated with rest.

Study finds sharks and tuna risk overheating in warming oceans

Scientists have discovered that warm-bodied fish like great white sharks and tuna burn nearly four times more energy than cold-blooded species, facing heightened risks as oceans warm. The research highlights a 'double jeopardy' from increased metabolic demands and shrinking food supplies. Large specimens may struggle to maintain stable body temperatures above certain water thresholds.

Nighttime oxygen drops drain energy from coral reef fish

February 25, 2026 Reported by AI

A study from NYU Abu Dhabi reveals that brief nighttime drops in ocean oxygen increase energy expenditure in small coral reef fish, potentially affecting reef ecosystems. Researchers examined the Gulf blenny in the Arabian Gulf, the world's hottest sea, where such conditions are already extreme. The findings highlight additional stress from warming oceans beyond just higher temperatures.

Health

Brief bursts of vigorous activity tied to lower risks across eight major disease groups, study finds

Science

Coral reefs at Houtman Abrolhos Islands survive severe 2025 heatwave

Science

Warmer ocean drives Antarctic sea ice regime shift

55-year-old windsurfer dies after shark attack in New Caledonia

The body of a 55-year-old windsurfer, victim of a shark attack, was discovered on Sunday, February 22, in a bay in Nouméa, New Caledonia. Anse-Vata beach was evacuated to allow rescue operations, with authorities calling for caution. The incident follows heavy rains, which increase the risk of sharks near the coasts.

Slow breathing calms anxiety without mindfulness in mice study

May 08, 2026 Reported by AI

A new study shows that slowing breathing rates can reduce anxiety-like behaviors even without any conscious effort or belief in its effects. Researchers used mice to demonstrate that the benefits come from physiological changes rather than placebo. The findings were presented at a summit in Los Angeles earlier this month.

Environment