The Next Swell

A new study in Ocean & Coastal Management examines how alternative conservation methods, called "Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures" (OECMs), can complement Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in protecting biodiversity, using Indonesia?as a case study. While MPAs are vital for preserving marine life, they alone aren't enough to combat growing environmental threats. OECMs, managed by Indigenous peoples, local communities, or private sectors, can help meet global biodiversity goals by incorporating local values and sustainable practices. In Indonesia, the study found 382 potential marine OECMs covering over 10 million hectares, protecting key coastal habitats like seagrasses, mangroves, and coral reefs. Combining OECMs with MPAs could enhance conservation efforts, protecting more than half of Indonesia’s seagrass and coral reefs. These OECMs also act as ecological corridors, improving connectivity between MPAs and supporting sustainable resource management. The study suggests that recognizing OECMs alongside MPAs could increase Indonesia's marine conservation network by 13% by 2030, helping the country meet its conservation targets. OECMs are especially valuable in areas where traditional MPAs are not feasible and can enhance the resilience of marine ecosystems to climate change. Photo: Infographic detailing the advantages of recognizing OECMs as an addition to MPAs. Credit: Estradivari et al, Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT) https://lnkd.in/e9mYCtvq . . . . . #TheNextSwell?#MarineConservation?#Biodiversity?#OECMs?#MarineProtectedAreas?#Indonesia?#ClimateResilience?#SustainableDevelopment?#OceanConservation

?? Monthly Feature: Eco-Friendly Companies We Admire! ?? This month, The Next Swell is barking with excitement over ?? West Paw! ?? This eco-conscious brand creates durable, non-toxic dog toys and cozy beds filled with recycled water bottle fibers. Not only are they perfect for your pet ?? , but their sustainable packaging uses recycled paper and soy-based inks, too! West Paw goes beyond green by encouraging customers to ?? return worn-out toys to be recycled ?? into new ones, supporting a true circular economy. Why we’re obsessed: ?? B-Corp Certified ??Built-to-last durability ??Non-toxic & pet-safe ??Recycled packaging with soy ink ??Reuse program for damaged toys Price Range: $10 – $99 Check them out here: www.westpaw.com #EcoFriendly #WestPaw #SustainableLiving #TheNextSwell #EcoPets

Australia is making waves in environmental protection! The government just announced a massive expansion of the Heard Island and McDonald Islands Marine Reserve, quadrupling its size by over 300,000 sq km. This move positions Australia as a global leader, with 52% of its ocean territory now protected—far exceeding the 30% global target set for 2030. What’s the impact? This decision safeguards vital habitats for unique wildlife like albatross, penguins, and seals, and curtails potential mining and new fisheries. While praised by conservation groups, some experts stress that key undersea canyons and high-value habitats still need stronger protection. Why it matters: These sub-Antarctic islands, home to glaciers and Australia’s only active volcanoes, remain among the last untouched places on Earth. Protecting them ensures their rich biodiversity thrives for future generations. However, challenges remain as environmental alliances push for increased funding to ensure robust nature conservation. The government’s move follows a June consultation and reflects a broader push for “nature positive” policies. Yet, experts note that despite these initiatives, investments in nature are lagging—currently just 0.1% of federal spending. Campaigners argue boosting this to 1% is crucial to combat biodiversity loss effectively. What’s next? As Australia hosts a global summit on these issues, all eyes are on its commitment to balancing economic growth with protecting our planet. This step is a huge win for the environment and a call for more action to ensure comprehensive protection. Photo: The proposal would expand the Heard and McDonald Island Marine Reserve by 300,000 square kilometers. Credit: Matthew Curnock . . . . . #TheNextSwell #OceanConservation #MarineLife #Sustainability #Biodiversity #Australia #ProtectOurPlanet #NaturePositive #ClimateAction

A brand-new hammerhead shark species has been hiding right in front of us for centuries! Meet the shovelhead shark (Sphyrna alleni), a close cousin of the bonnethead shark. For over 300 years, these two species were thought to be the same—until now! Thanks to over a decade of research and DNA analysis, scientists have confirmed that the shovelhead is an entirely different species, having diverged from the bonnethead between 3.5 and 5 million years ago. The breakthrough study, published on September 24, has challenged long-accepted ideas dating back to 1758, when Carl Linnaeus, the “father of modern taxonomy,” first classified the bonnethead. So, what makes them different? The shovelhead shark has a pointier head and 82 vertebrae (compared to the bonnethead’s 72). Yet, these differences were only confirmed with advanced DNA techniques—talk about a hidden gem in the ocean! But there’s more: the shovelhead shark, named after Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen for his dedication to shark conservation, is already under threat of extinction. In 2019, the bonnethead was declared endangered by the IUCN Red List, with populations plummeting up to 79%, largely due to bycatch in fisheries. Sadly, the shovelhead may face even greater danger as it shares the same overfished habitats along the western Atlantic coast. Unfortunately, we were at risk of losing a species before we even knew it existed. Now that the shovelhead has been identified, conservation measures tailored to its specific needs can be implemented, hopefully saving both species from further decline. Let’s raise awareness about the importance of protecting these sharks and their ecosystems before it’s too late! https://lnkd.in/dsEWpwnz Photo: Sphyrna alleni. Credit:?Gonzalez, Postaire, Driggers, Caballero & Chapman, 2024, paratype, Riversdale, Belize, UF 247326, male, 64.5 cm TL. ? Cindy Gonzalez . . . . . #TheNextSwell #ShovelheadShark #EndangeredSpecies #OceanConservation #MarineLife #SharkWeek #SaveOurSeas #ScienceBreakthrough #ProtectWhatYouLove #WildlifeConservation #Biodiversity #SharkResearch

??? Monthly Eco-Friendly Company Spotlight! ??? This month, The Next Swell is LOVING ?? Tru Earth – a family-owned biz that's changing how we do laundry! ?? Say goodbye to bulky plastic detergent bottles and hello to their eco-friendly laundry strips! ?? Plastic-free, waterless, and a total game-changer for your fresh, clean clothes ????—minus the waste! ?? Why we’re obsessed: ?? Vegan ?? ?? Biodegradable ?? ?? No animal testing ?? ?? Made locally ???? ?? Low carbon emissions ??? Check them out here: www.tru.earth ?? #EcoFriendly #TruEarth #SustainableLiving #ZeroWaste #TheNextSwell ??

Our apologies for the hiatus on social media. Lots going on - including last week’s Conservation Optimism Summit (@conservationoptimism - definitely check out this awesome and uplifting conservation movement if you haven’t already) and prepping for the 7th International Marine Conservation Congress in Cape Town, South Africa in a few weeks. Anyone attending? But don’t worry, today we’re highlighting a new study about one of our favorites - the octopus. Although often known to hunt alone, recent video footage (see link below) and later described in a recent Nature Ecology & Evolution publication showcases octopuses and fishes working in cahoots to find dinner! Researchers deployed underwater cameras to capture 120 hours of footage within the Red Sea and found 13 occasions of cross-species group hunting, with octopus and fish adopting various hunting roles. For example, goatfish (Parupeneus spp) have been found to persuade other fishes to explore new areas and directions. At the same time, octopuses acted as the ‘decider’ of which direction or course of action to take, exemplifying shared leadership. But, if something went awry and fish (e.g., the blacktip grouper) acted opportunistically and mooching off the group, octopuses were caught punching them as a, sort of, punishment or to persuade them to leave! Although more studies are needed to understand these group dynamics, the video is something to definitely check out. https://lnkd.in/euVMtU8F https://lnkd.in/giP4_3J6 Sampaio, E., Sridhar, V.H., Francisco, F.A. et al. Multidimensional social influence drives leadership and composition-dependent success in octopus–fish hunting groups. Nat Ecol Evol (2024). https://lnkd.in/gvYEQnVr Photo credit: Eduardo Sampaio and Simon Gingins via https://lnkd.in/giP4_3J6

To graduate school or not to graduate school? The age-old question. Check out the newest blog on the docket as we try to rationalize what to do after undergrad. Spoiler alert: There is no right answer. It’s whatever is right for YOU!

Today, we honor the magnificent whale shark—our ocean’s gentle giant. Despite their size, these incredible creatures are endangered, and it's up to us to protect them. Did you know? A whale shark is the largest shark species, growing up to 14 meters and weighing around 12 tons! Every whale shark has a unique skin pattern, like a human fingerprint, helping researchers identify and track them. Despite their size, they’re slow swimmers at 5 km/h and prefer shallow waters, making them vulnerable to fishing nets and boat collisions. The Threats They Face: Endangered Status: Reclassified by the IUCN from vulnerable to endangered in 2016. Human Impact: Overfishing, boat strikes, and entanglement in fishing gear are major threats. Plastic Pollution: Ingested plastics can cause starvation by blocking their digestive tracts. Let’s raise awareness and take action to protect these awe-inspiring creatures. Our oceans need whale sharks, and whale sharks need us. Photo Credit:?Bryan Adams, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 . . . . . #TheNextSwell #WhaleSharkDay #ProtectOurOceans #EndangeredSpecies #SaveTheWhaleSharks #OceanConservation

Recent research from the University of Alaska Fairbanks has revealed both benefits and challenges associated with salmon hatcheries. These facilities release over 5 billion juvenile salmon into the North Pacific annually, significantly increasing pink salmon harvests. However, the study highlights a crucial downside: a reduction in genetic diversity among wild salmon populations. Hatchery fish often stray and breed with wild salmon, leading to less diverse populations. This decreased genetic diversity may reduce the resilience of wild salmon to environmental changes such as climate change and disease. Genetic analyses showed that hatchery fish possess different genetic traits compared to their wild counterparts, suggesting varied responses to environmental stressors. The study emphasizes the need for balanced management strategies that consider the economic benefits of hatcheries while preserving the ecological health of wild salmon populations. Sustainable practices, such as creating barriers to prevent hatchery fish from straying and enhancing genetic monitoring, are essential steps toward maintaining the genetic diversity and resilience of wild salmon. Photo: Pink salmon spawn in Gilmour Creek, Prince William Sound, Alaska, as a field technician works to collect carcasses of dead fish. Credit: Kate Ruck https://lnkd.in/eVj5Ncu7 . . . . #SalmonConservation #WildlifeResearch #MarineBiology #Biodiversity #EnvironmentalScience #SustainableFisheries #ClimateChange #GeneticDiversity

The ocean faces unprecedented challenges from overfishing, pollution, and climate change. The latest insights from marine experts highlight a transformative solution: robust marine law enforcement. This strategy promises to not only protect our precious marine ecosystems but also create jobs and ensure food security. Experts from the Marine Action Partnership in The Bahamas proposed enhancing and expanding marine law enforcement in ways that go beyond traditional Coast Guard functions. While the Coast Guard plays a crucial role in enforcing maritime laws and ensuring the safety of waters, their proposed initiative emphasizes a more comprehensive and technologically advanced approach to marine conservation. Marine conservation is no longer just an environmental concern—it's a matter of survival, prosperity, and global well-being.?Healthy oceans are the backbone of our planet's health. They regulate the climate, provide oxygen, and are home to countless species. Effective enforcement of marine laws can curb illegal activities like poaching and unregulated fishing, safeguarding marine life and their habitats. Marine law enforcement is a catalyst for job creation. From marine biologists to enforcement officers,?it can create a wide range of employment opportunities.?These jobs not only contribute to the economy but also foster a culture of conservation and respect for the environment. Illegal fishing and pollution don’t respect national borders. Collaborative enforcement efforts lead to stronger, more resilient marine conservation strategies that benefit everyone. Healthy, well-protected oceans attract tourists from around the world, driving economic growth and providing income for local communities. Sustainable tourism, supported by effective marine law enforcement, ensures that natural attractions remain vibrant and appealing. Tourists can enjoy the beauty of the ocean without contributing to its degradation. https://lnkd.in/exvwJhZA Photo: 41-foot Center Console – Offshore Interceptor used by the Royal Bahamas Police Force to enforce laws within the waters of the Bahamas. Credit: SAFE Boats . . . . . #TheNextSwell #MarineConservation #OceanProtection #SustainableFuture #BlueEconomy #ProtectOurOceans #ClimateAction #SustainableJobs #FoodSecurity #InnovativeConservation #GlobalCollaboration #CommunityEmpowerment #SustainableTourism #FutureIsBlue