The size distribution of marine primary organic aerosols, the organic component of sea spray, has been measured for the first time down to 35 nanometres from long-term observations in clean North Atlantic air. It is bimodal, whereas the parameterization in major climate models is unimodal and underestimates particle number threefold. The resulting underestimate in cloud condensation nuclei reaches 16 to 64 per cent at marine supersaturations, assuming 30 per cent lower surface tension.

Brand loyal yet flexible: Small marine worms that live in close symbiosis with various bacteria are always open to new partnerships – and are therefore extremely successful.

A steady “snowfall” of tiny particles carries carbon, nutrients and pollution from the ocean’s surface toward the deep sea. Scientists can see those particles sinking, but determining exactly what they contain is much harder. University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Oceanography Research Professor Melissa Omand is turning to artificial intelligence to help solve that problem. The National Science Foundation awarded nearly $700,000 to the team for the three-year project, which is scheduled to begin in January 2027 and run through December 2029.

Historically high sea temperatures are damaging coral reefs around the world. Very high heat stress leads to coral bleaching, and prolonged bleaching can lead to coral colony death. But now scientists have found a simple method that can help protect the most vulnerable Caribbean corals: the installation of temporary shades, which protect against UV and irradiance damage, over particularly delicate corals. In an experiment in the Florida Keys, carried out in 2024 — the second-hottest summer on record in those waters — they found these shades minimized bleaching and even helped corals recover some of their color, indicating improved health.  

Researchers at SUTD have built a robotic platform that can be dropped from the air onto remote waters and sail autonomously using wind energy, pairing rapid aerial deployment with the potential for long duration marine monitoring.

New research has shown that a “floating scarecrow” developed by UK-based scientists and a repurposed bird-scaring kite can help save threatened seabirds from getting caught in fishing nets.