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ocean bacteria
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- 1Tiny ocean bacteria may move more carbon to the deep sea▼Tiny ocean bacteria may carry surprising amounts of carbon into the deep
New reporting suggests that tiny ocean bacteria may play a far larger role than assumed in transporting carbon from surface waters into the deep ocean. If confirmed, the finding could change how scientists account for carbon storage in the sea and refine estimates of the ocean's role in regulating the global climate.
- 2Brown water advisory halts swimming and ocean activities▼Officials advise no swimming, ocean recreation activities because of brown water advisory
Officials have advised the public to avoid swimming and all ocean recreation activities due to a brown water advisory. Brown water typically signals contaminated runoff carrying debris, bacteria and other pollutants into coastal waters, posing health risks to swimmers and surfers. Residents and visitors are being urged to stay out of affected waters until conditions improve and the advisory is lifted.
- 3Oil-Eating Ocean Bacteria May Recycle the World's Plastics▼Ocean Bacteria That Eat Oil May Also Help Recycle the World’s Plastics
Scientists say ocean bacteria known for breaking down oil hydrocarbons may also be capable of degrading plastics, potentially opening new routes for recycling and tackling plastic pollution. The findings highlight how microbes adapted to consuming petroleum compounds could be repurposed to break down plastic waste, a growing global environmental problem that existing recycling systems have failed to solve.
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Officials in Hawaii have issued a Brown Water Advisory for Kauai, warning residents and visitors to stay out of coastal waters. Brown water advisories typically indicate runoff carrying debris, pollutants and bacteria into the ocean after heavy rain, posing health risks to swimmers and surfers.
- 5Ocean Water Warnings Issued Across Southern California Amid Ongoing Heat▼Ocean Water Warnings Issued as Southland Heat Continues
Health officials have issued ocean water warnings for beaches across Southern California as a heat wave continues over the region. The advisories typically caution swimmers about elevated bacteria levels near storm drains and outfalls, which can rise in warm weather. Beachgoers are being urged to check water quality postings before entering the ocean during the hot spell.