marine ecosystems

Scientists have uncovered a thriving microbial community deep beneath Antarctica's Ross Ice Shelf, challenging previous notions of marine ecosystems. These organisms, powered by chemical energy through chemosynthesis, form a self-sustaining ecosystem independent of sunlight. This groundbreaking discovery, confirmed by modern technology, reveals life's remarkable adaptability in extreme, isolated environments and offers insights for exploring life elsewhere.

Climate change could push seabirds into smaller habitats and force them to fly farther to survive, a new study said Tuesday. "Every time, when the climate changed faster... the range of distribution (of seabirds) started to decrease, to contract, to be smaller," Jorge Avaria-Llautureo, lead author of the study in the journal Nature Climate Change, told AFP. Driven by planet-heating fossil fuel emissions, climate change is raising global temperatures and disrupting marine ecosystems as oceans get warmer.

Odisha's state cabinet has approved a new law to regulate marine fishing, replacing the 1982 act. The "Odisha Marine Fishing (Prohibition and Regulation) Bill, 2026" aims to enhance coastal surveillance using technology, curb illegal fishing, and promote sustainable practices. The legislation also focuses on fishermen's safety and economic growth in the marine sector.

Biodiversity is crucial for human survival, yet it's declining rapidly due to human actions. India is strengthening its conservation efforts, with local communities playing a vital role. Initiatives like restoring coastal ecosystems and creating micro-forests demonstrate how grassroots actions, empowered by traditional knowledge and community institutions, significantly contribute to global biodiversity goals and sustainable livelihoods.

Odisha is forging a significant academic and research partnership with Australia's James Cook University. Discussions centered on joint PhD programs, student and faculty exchanges, and a potential international campus. An MoU with Fakir Mohan and Berhampur Universities will boost marine biotechnology research, with James Cook University offering expertise in areas like seaweed and ecosystem restoration.

Scientists have discovered a thriving estuarine ecosystem beneath Antarctica's Ross Ice Shelf, teeming with diverse microorganisms. This sub-ice environment, characterized by flowing waters and nutrient circulation, exists despite complete darkness, challenging previous perceptions of the continent's interior. The findings highlight life's adaptability in extreme conditions and its potential impact on ice dynamics and ocean circulation.

What began with three citizens during the COVID-19 lockdown has blossomed into Maharashtra's largest community-led environmental movement. The Mangrove Cleanup Drive recently celebrated 300 consecutive weeks of coastal restoration, mobilizing over 1.25 lakh volunteers and removing 1,200 tonnes of waste.

Marine biologists were stunned to discover living glass sponge reefs off British Columbia, previously believed extinct for millions of years. These ancient, self-building structures thrive by efficiently filtering nutrients from deep-sea currents. This remarkable find highlights the ocean's hidden secrets and the resilience of prehistoric ecosystems, proving the deep sea is a dynamic realm.

India and Italy have elevated their ties to a Special Strategic Partnership, fostering deeper cooperation in defence, technology, and trade. A defence roadmap for co-development and co-production of military platforms was agreed upon, alongside an ambitious €20 billion trade target by 2029. Discussions also covered global security, including West Asia and Ukraine, and maritime cooperation.

Iran has introduced 'Hormuz Safe', a digital insurance platform. Commercial ships can now use this system to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Payments are accepted in cryptocurrency like Bitcoin. This initiative aims to manage the waterway commercially. It is expected to generate significant revenue for Iran. The platform ensures secure cargo transits through cryptographic verification.

India and Italy have forged a Special Strategic Partnership, revitalizing defence and industrial ties. A new roadmap prioritizes co-development and co-production of military systems, including helicopters and naval platforms, aligning with India's 'Make in India' vision. This collaboration also extends to counterterrorism and space exploration, marking a significant step forward for both nations.

Our Moon is slowly drifting away, a subtle cosmic dance revealing Earth's ancient secrets. Scientists study this gradual separation, which has lengthened our days over billions of years. Fossilized shells show that 70 million years ago, days were shorter, proving tidal forces have reshaped our planet's rotation and our moon's orbit.

Aims At 50 Lakh DWT By 2047

Scientists have uncovered a vast, hidden freshwater aquifer beneath the Atlantic Ocean floor off the U.S. coast. This immense discovery, stretching hundreds of kilometers, holds an estimated 2,800 cubic kilometers of low-salinity water, a mix of ancient glacial melt and modern runoff. The finding revolutionizes our understanding of coastal resources and their management.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Afsluitdijk dam in the Netherlands highlighted Dutch expertise in water management, relevant to India's ambitious Kalpasar Project. This mega-project aims to create a freshwater reservoir in Gujarat, addressing water scarcity and flood protection, mirroring the multi-functional Dutch approach to climate resilience.

A bold overhaul of higher education aims to align degrees with emerging industries, transforming classrooms into pathways for jobs and nation-building