This year’s theme for World Ocean Day is Reimagine. The idea behind this year’s theme is to invite people to change the way they understand and care for the ocean. You might perceive the ocean as a distant, mysterious place not connected to you. However, that is not the case. Regardless of where you live on Earth, you are connected to the ocean. In fact, our existence is closely tied to the ocean.

Here are a few facts that demonstrate that:

• Oxygen production – the ocean produces about 50% of the Earth’s oxygen.
• Climate regulation – the ocean regulates our climate by transporting heat from the equator to the poles. Also, the ocean absorbs about 31% of the Carbon Dioxide emissions released into the atmosphere, acting as a carbon sink.
• Food production – billions of people depend on the ocean for food.
• Medicines – chemicals from marine organisms are used in treating human diseases such as cancer, arthritis, and heart disease.
• Economic Benefits – The ocean supports economic activities like fishing, tourism, and transportation.
• High cultural and recreational value – The cultures and identities of many communities around the world are interconnected with the ocean.

Education Opportunities

One of the best ways to reconnect and care for the ocean today, tomorrow, and every day is through education. Learning about the ocean and its ecosystems will help you become a better steward and make it easier to talk to others about the ocean’s importance. Here are a few educational programs that will help you with this.

Florida Friendly Angler: A free, online, do-at-your-own-pace educational program designed for any angler who wants to learn more about sustainable fishing and boating practices while interacting with Florida’s aquatic environments.

Ocean Literacy Guide: A handbook for increasing ocean literacy. This guide will help you teach, learn, and communicate about the ocean by describing the seven most important ideas, or essential principles, about the ocean.

Deep Ocean Education Project website: This site provides a one-stop resource hub for the public, educators, and students searching for deep-sea educational materials.

Florida Master Naturalist Program – Coastal Systems Course: This course provides instructions on the general ecology, habitats, vegetation types, wildlife, and conservation issues of coastal systems in Florida.

Sea Grant Bridge – Ocean Science Education: A website that serves  as a clearinghouse for a variety of educational content, including multimedia, downloadable lesson plans, information about marine careers, internships, and summer activities for students, and professional development opportunities.

I hope these resources are helpful. The best way to reconnect and reimagine is by learning. And remember, we depend on our ocean, and our ocean needs our help. Happy 2026 World Ocean Day.

Shrimp Tacos

Pickled red onion

Ingredients:

1 red onion (thinly sliced)
½ cup of apple cider vinegar
½ tablespoon granulated sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 cup of hot water (not boiling)
Bay leaves and Pepper cloves.

Instructions

Slice red onion very thin; use a mandolin if you have one. Place onions in a glass container or a bowl, add a few bay leaves and pepper cloves. In a separate container, mix the vinegar, sugar, salt, and hot water, stirring until sugar and salt are dissolved. Add the liquid to the onions, let them sit aside for about 1 hour.

Shrimp Taco Sauce

Ingredients:

1/3 cup of sour cream
1/3 cup of mayonnaise
1 ½ Tbsp lime juice, squeezed
¾ tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Sriracha sauce, or to taste, or Jalapeño Powder

Shrimp Tacos Toppings

Ingredients:

Soft tortillas or Hard Taco Shells
1/2 small purple cabbage, 2 cups shredded
Mexican crumbling cheese
1/4 bunch cilantro, coarsely chopped
Lime wedges to serve with

Shrimp Tacos

Ingredients:

1 lb. shrimp (medium or large), raw
1 garlic clove, pressed or minced
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1 Tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Shrimp Taco Sauce – In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients and set aside for the flavors to meld. Transfer to a squeezed bottle if desired.

2. Season the Shrimp – Thaw and pat dry the shrimp with paper towels and place in a bowl. Add seasonings, olive oil, and garlic, and stir to combine.

3. Cook the Shrimp – Prepare your grill for medium-high heat. You could use skewers or a grilling basket to avoid shrimp falling through the grilling grate. Grill the shrimp 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a serving platter.

4. Heat the Tortillas – Place the tortillas on the grill; it will take only a few seconds to warm the tortilla. Do not leave them unattended, or they will burn.

5. To Serve – Build tacos by arranging toppings and shrimp over each tortilla, and add the taco sauce.


For more information about seafood recipes that you could prepare with local seafood products, please follow this link: https://www.flseagrant.org/florida-sea-grant-chefs-educate-on-sustainable-seafood-selection-prep-during-florida-seafood-at-your-fingertips-live/

You will find not just the recipes but instructional videos. Enjoy, and please let me know if you decide to prepare this recipe.

Habitat and Distribution

Predominantly inhabiting tropical and subtropical waters of the western Atlantic, the common snook ranges from North Carolina to Brazil. Its presence extends throughout the Gulf and the Caribbean Sea. Thriving in estuaries, rivers, and nearshore waters, these fish are especially abundant along Florida’s Atlantic and Gulf coasts.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the common snook’s distribution is the genetic isolation between populations on opposite coasts of Florida. Atlantic and Gulf Coast populations exhibit different life history patterns, with Gulf Coast snook typically inhabiting a single estuary for their entire lives. In contrast, Atlantic snook are more migratory, often traveling between estuaries. Genetic studies have confirmed that these populations are reproductively isolated, meaning they do not interbreed, despite their proximity in habitat.

Life Stages and Habitat Preferences

Eggs and Larvae: Eggs and larvae are typically found in salty, high-energy environments near estuarine passes or river mouths. Newly hatched larvae spend about 2.5 weeks in high-salinity waters before being transported by currents to shallow-water nursery sites within the bays. This journey is crucial for their development and growth. The early stages of common snook are critical for their survival.

Young-of-the-year (YOY) and Juveniles: Small juvenile common snook prefer low-energy, shallow waters with abundant vegetation or seagrass, which provide essential nutrients and protection from predators. Key nursery habitats include quiet creeks, canals, and lagoons in riverine, mangrove, and saltmarsh habitats.

Research has shown that juvenile common snook undergo several ontogenetic habitat shifts as they grow. Initially, they reside in tidal ponds before moving to tidal creeks around 40 mm standard length. As they reach approximately 150 mm standard length, they transition to open estuarine shorelines, where they can tolerate higher dissolved oxygen levels and access more substantial food sources.

Adults: Adults have a diverse range of habitats, including shoreline areas with overhanging vegetation and areas with dense seagrass. They are commonly found near deeper passages and mouths of bays, particularly during spawning seasons. Adults also frequent freshwater rivers, where they take advantage of the abundant food resources and thermal refuges during colder periods.

Recent studies have revealed behavioral differences among adult common snook of the same populations, with segments of the population exhibiting different migration tactics. Some fish remain in rivers year-round, while others move seasonally, especially during spawning periods or in response to temperature changes.

Feeding Habits

Adult common snooks are opportunistic feeders; they adapt their diet based on the availability of prey in their environment. Larval snooks primarily feed on copepods, while small juveniles consume micro-crustaceans like copepods and mysids. As they grow, their diet transitions to include shrimp and small fish.

Adult snook are known to feed on a variety of prey, including fish, shrimp, and crabs. Their diet varies significantly depending on location: estuarine habitats host mostly small marine and brackish water fish and crustaceans, while riverine areas see more crayfish and large freshwater prey such as the brown hoplo and sunfishes. Cannibalism is also a documented behavior among common snook, particularly when juvenile and adult populations coexist in the same habitat during winter months.

Reproduction and Sex Life

The reproductive life history of common snook is complex and varies between Atlantic and Gulf coast populations. Spawning typically occurs between April and October, with peak activity during the summer months. Common snook are protandrous hermaphrodites, meaning they initially develop as males and later transition to females. This unique reproductive strategy has significant implications for population dynamics and genetic diversity.

Recent research has shed light on the variability of individual reproductive dynamics, revealing that not all common snook spawn annually. Some individuals, particularly smaller fish, may skip spawning, and this behavior can influence population growth and reproductive success.

Growth and Size

Common snook exhibits different growth patterns on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of Florida. Atlantic coast snook generally attain larger sizes and are known to live longer than their Gulf coast counterparts. The maximum observed size for a common snook is approximately 45 inches (total length), with females typically reaching larger sizes than males.

The growth rates of common snook are influenced by factors such as habitat quality, food availability, and environmental conditions. Longitudinal studies have provided valuable insights into the growth patterns and longevity of this species, with some individuals living well more than 20 years.

Conservation and Management

Given the ecological and economic significance of common snook, effective conservation and management strategies are crucial. The genetic distinctiveness of Atlantic and Gulf coast populations underscores the importance of separate management plans to ensure the sustainability of each population.

Efforts to monitor and protect nursery habitats, regulate fishing practices, and mitigate the impacts of environmental stressors are essential for the long-term health of common snook populations. Advanced technologies, such as otolith microchemistry and genetic analysis, play a vital role in understanding the life history and migratory patterns of this species, enabling more informed conservation efforts.

Current Regulations

The recreational harvest season for snook starts Sept. 01 in all east coast (Southeast, Indian River Lagoon and Northeast) and most west coast (Panhandle, Big Bend, Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay) management regions. This includes all Florida state and inland waters within each management region.

• The harvest season in the Panhandle, Big Bend, Tampa Bay, and Sarasota Bay management regions will remain open through Nov. 30.
• The harvest season in the Southeast, Indian River Lagoon, and Northeast management regions will remain open through Dec. 14.

The management regions are part of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s holistic approach for managing Florida’s most popular inshore fisheries. This approach uses seven metrics to evaluate the fishery by region, allowing the agency to be more responsive to local concerns. To learn more, visit MyFWC.com/Snook.

Sarasota Bay

Open season:  March 1 through April 30, and Sept. 01 through Nov. 30

Closed season: Dec. 01 through end of February, and May 1 through Aug 31

Bag limit: One fish per person per day

Slot limit: 28–33 inches, total length.

Total length is measured from the most forward point of the head, with the mouth closed, to the farthest tip of the tail, with the tail compressed or squeezed, while the fish is lying on its side.

Boundaries

The northern coastal boundary is State Road 64 in Manatee County, and the region extends south to 27°04.727’ north latitude, near the Venice Municipal Airport. Includes all waters of Palma Sola Bay, Phillippi Creek, Cow Pen Slough Canal, and Curry Creek. Does not include the waters of the Braden and Manatee rivers.

For more information on recreational snook regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Snook.

Conclusion

The common snook is a remarkable fish with a complex life cycle and diverse ecological roles. Its unique adaptations and behaviors make it a fascinating subject for study, while its economic importance highlights the need for conservation. By understanding the common snook’s ecology, we gain a deeper appreciation for marine ecosystems and the necessity of protecting these resources for future generations.

Sources: 

• The 2020 Stock Assessment of common snook, Centropomus undecimalis by J. Munyandorero, A.A. Trotter, P.W. Stevens, and R.G. Muller. Fish and Wildife Conservation Commission
• Common snook regulations 
• Common snook identification

This year’s theme for World Ocean Day is Wonder – Sustaining What Sustains Us. This theme emphasizes the importance of our ocean in sustaining life on Earth.

A few reasons the ocean is critical to us are:

• Oxygen production – Approximately half of the oxygen production comes from the ocean
• Climate regulation – The ocean absorbs about 31% of the Carbon Dioxide emissions released into the atmosphere, acting as a carbon sink.
• Food – The ocean provides food for billions of people
• Medicines – chemicals from marine organisms are used in treating human diseases
• Economic Benefits – The ocean supports economic activities like fishing, tourism, and transportation
• High cultural and recreational value

We need a healthy ocean, and there are ways to contribute to this.  A few examples of actions that you can do to help protect our ocean today, tomorrow, and in days to come:

Choose sustainable seafood: sustainable seafood, wild-caught or farmed, is harvested or produced considering the long-term health of species populations and ecosystems. You can learn about sustainable seafood choices by visiting the Sustainable Seafood website developed by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration.

Reduce, reuse, and recycle: Minimizing waste reduces pollution, conserves resources, and protects natural resources for future generations.

Shop smart: Plastic pollution is a threat to our ocean. By buying fewer plastic products, especially single-use plastic items, we are helping reduce ocean plastic pollution.

Conserver water: Water is a finite resource. Water conservation is critical for the long-term well-being of our planet, so the less water we use, the better. Plus less water we use, the less runoff and wastewater that could end up in the ocean.

Volunteer: Participate, or better yet, organize a beach cleanup in your community. Coastal cleanups by volunteers help reduce ocean pollution and could contribute to scientific research related to plastic pollution. Volunteers using the free Marine Debris Tracker app during their cleanups are contributing data used for research, policy, and management. You can learn more about this app here.

Educate: By educating yourself about the importance of the ocean, you could help others understand how critical the ocean is. By educating yourself, you could become a better steward. For example, by becoming a better angler or boater, you help manage and conserve natural resources. At Florida Sea Grant, we have a free, online, do-at-your-own-pace educational program for those who want to learn about sustainable fishing and boating practices. You can enroll and get your certificate at the Florida Friendly Angler website.

World Ocean Day is an important day to remind us how critical and valuable the ocean is, how fortunate we are, and that we all need to do our part to keep it healthy. Therefore, we should be celebrating and caring for our ocean every day, and simple daily things like those mentioned above help.

Safety is critical, especially when it comes to understanding rip currents. These powerful, near-shore currents account for 80% of beach rescues in the United States. And, rip currents can be deadly.

What is a rip current?

A rip current is a powerful channel of water flowing away from the beach and out to the sea. Rip currents extend from near the shoreline out through the surf zone and pass the line of breaking waves, but sometimes rip currents continue to push hundreds of yards offshore.

Where and when do rip currents occur?

Rip currents can occur anywhere, but they are more likely to form at low spots or breaks in sandbars, as well as structures such as jetties and piers. Rip currents can form under any weather.

How do rip currents form?

Here is the explanation, with an accompanying illustration, by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration on how rip currents form:

“Rip currents form as incoming waves (#1) push water toward the shoreline (#2), which creates an imbalance of water piling up in the surf zone. To stay in balance, the water seeks the path of least resistance back through the surf, which is typically a break in the sandbar (#3). This area is where the rip current is the strongest. Once the flowing water passes through the narrow gap, it begins to spread out (#4), considerably weakening the velocity and strength of the rip current circulation.”

Can you spot a rip current?

Rip currents are not easy to spot, especially in rough waters. But, there are some signs to watch for, including:

• A channel of churning or foamy water
• A narrow gap of darker and seemly calmer water (area without breaking waves) surrounded by areas of breaking waves and whitewater
• A dark or discolored area of water due to sediment and sand being carried away from the beach
• A seaweed or debris line carried through the surf

What to do if you get caught in a rip current?

First, do not panic and stay calm. Panicking can lead to hyperventilation and rapid fatigue; both can contribute to drowning. Therefore, stay calm and follow these steps:

• Don’t fight the current! You will only make yourself tired.
• Try to swim parallel to the shore so you can escape the rip current and swim back to the beach.
• If you can’t escape, float or tread water. Rip currents will not pull you under; rip currents will only carry you out away from the shoreline.
• If you need help, call and wave for assistance.

Other general swimming safety tips

• Swim at a lifeguarded beach. You can check local county websites or park websites for information about lifeguarded beaches.
• Check weather and ocean conditions, and avoid swimming during strong winds or rough seas.
• Swim with a buddy.
• Watch for warning flags.

Swimming is fun, and by recognizing the signs of a rip current and following the steps to escape, you can stay safe in the water. Enjoy your summer and your favorite Florida beach.

The Problem with Plastics

Plastic is a synthetic material made from petroleum. It is used universally in households, industries, and stores. It is in our packaging, storage containers, and even cosmetics, often hidden behind scientific aliases on ingredient lists.

Plastics are not inherently bad. For instance, plastics are used to make many lifesaving medical devices. The real issue is how we use and dispose of them, especially those designed to be used once. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), global plastic production hit 300 million tons annually in 2021. Unfortunately, half of this is single-use plastic like water bottles, food packaging, and grocery bags. About 14 million tons of plastic enter our oceans each year. While some plastic comes from fishing and shipping, most make its way to the ocean from the land via wind and stormwater runoff.

Tiny Plastics, Big Issues

A significant issue with plastics is how small some debris can be. Microplastics are tiny plastic pieces less than 5mm, about the size of a pencil eraser. Even smaller are nanoplastics, which measure less than 1 micrometer. For context, a human hair is about 80 micrometers wide.
Microplastics are categorized based on how they are created. Primary microplastics are designed to be small, like pre-production pellets, toy stuffing beads, beanbag fillers, and glitter. They were even used in cosmetics before the 2015 Microbead-Free Waters Act banned them in the U.S.

Secondary microplastics result from the breakdown of larger plastics. This breakdown produces tiny pieces tossed around by waves, fragments from Styrofoam packaging, and everyday wear and tear. Microfibers, the most common microplastics in wastewater and fresh water, come from synthetic clothing like polyester and nylon. Over time, washing and wearing these clothes release tiny fibers.

So what impact do microplastics have on aquatic life?

Plastic pollution has significant environmental impacts that are not yet fully understood. Microplastics pose a particular concern as their long-term effects are largely unknown. Some of the key environmental impacts of plastics include:

1. Leaching of chemicals: Plastics can release chemicals like Bisphenol A (BPA), which can have harmful effects on living organisms.
2. Contamination by toxins: Microplastics can adsorb and transport various toxins, potentially leading to the contamination of the environment and food chain.
3. Reduced feeding and reproductive fitness: Plastic pollution may disrupt the feeding behavior and reproductive success of certain species, with potentially far-reaching consequences for ecosystems.
4. Bioaccumulation: Plastic particles and the associated toxins may accumulate in the bodies of living organisms, potentially causing long-term harm as they move up the food chain.

And how can we help at home?

Overall, the widespread presence of plastic pollution in the environment and its complex interactions with living systems underscores the need for more research to understand the full extent of its long-term impacts and to develop solutions to address this pressing environmental challenge. The good news is that you can be part of the solution. You can start reducing your plastic footprint today.

Sources:

IUCN. 2021. Marine Plastic Pollution. https://www.iucn.org/sites/default/files/2022-04/marine_plastic_pollution_issues_brief_nov21.pdf

EPA. Microplastics Research. https://www.epa.gov/water-research/microplastics-research

UN Environmental Programme. Microplastics in wastewater: towards solutions. https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/microplastics-wastewater-towards-solutions

Maia McGuire, Yun-Ya Yang, Ignacio A. Rodriguez-Jorquera, Gurpal S. Toor, and Alexander J. Reisinger. Contaminants in the Urban Environment: Microplastics. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/SS649

Declaration of Generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in the writing process
During the preparation of this work, the authors used ChatGPT to help build the blog post. After using this tool/service, the author reviewed and edited the content, and takes full responsibility for the content of the public.

I decided to teach about wetlands because they are essential to us. Wetlands provide critical ecological services that we could not live without; therefore, their preservation and conservation are tied to our well-being. I will talk more about those services in this blog, but before I do that, let me define a wetland.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, a wetland is “an area where water covers the soil or is present either at or near the surface of the soil all year or for varying periods during the year, including during the growing season.” Put simply, a wetland is an area saturated with water.

What’s a wetland?

Wetlands, even the same type, can look very different based on regional and local differences in soil types, topography, climate, hydrology, water chemistry such as salinity, vegetation, and other factors, including human disturbance.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) classifies wetlands into five general types:

• Marine (ocean): shallow seas and coral reefs.
• Estuarine (estuary): mangroves and mudflats.
• Riverine (river): ponds and deltas.
• Lacustrine (lakes): lakes and floodplains.
• Palustrine (marsh): marshes and fens.

However, two general categories of wetlands are recognized: the coastal or tidal wetlands and the inland or non-tidal wetlands. Wetlands comprise 31 percent of all of Florida, with 90 percent of those classified as  freshwater systems and the remaining 10 percent noted as coastal wetlands, such as salt marshes and mangrove swamps.

What’s a wetland do?

Wetlands provide an array of critical services. They are vital for water storage, functioning like a natural tub or sponge to soak up surges of water and then slowly release it over time. Wetlands also slow the movement of water and erosive potential, reduce flood heights, and allow groundwater systems to recharge. By slowing water movement, wetland plants cause suspended sediments to drop out and settle on the wetland floor, which enhances the absorption of dissolved nutrients by plant roots and microorganisms in the soil. Therefore, wetlands help with water filtration.

Wetlands are among the most biologically productive natural ecosystems. The abundance of plants and shallow waters provide diverse habitats for wildlife. Aquatic plant life thrives in wetlands and nutrient-rich environments, and energy converted by plants is moved throughout the food chain. Wetlands in Florida are home to many threatened and endangered species, such as American crocodiles, sea turtles, Florida panthers, key deer, easter indigo snake, and manatees, among others.

What’s a wetland worth?

All of these wetland services have an economic value, as well. And, wetlands provide recreational opportunities, sites for research and education, and transportation, and more.

Where’s the wetland?

Despite their vital importance, wetlands are under constant threat. Anthropogenic activities, such as converting wetlands to agricultural or urban spaces, contribute to the depletion of wetland areas. Pollution, such as oil spills, herbicide runoff, human waste, and industrial chemicals, also contribute to the damage and loss of wetlands. Natural events, such as hurricanes, can also impact wetlands by causing over-flooding and burying plants in sand and silt.

According to the latest report by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, “more than half of wetlands in the lower 48 states are gone, and losses continue, mostly in the Southeast, Great Lakes, and Prairie Pothole regions. And in 2019, wetlands occupied less than 6% of the conterminous United States by area.”

Wetland steward… and how?

Once wetlands are lost, it isn’t easy to fully restore ecosystem function and the complete range of benefits that wetlands provide to humans, plants, and animals. Therefore, we need to protect and conserve wetlands. And key steps to doing so include:

1. Visiting and learning about your local wetlands. By visiting the Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Wetlands Inventory website, you can locate wetlands near you using the service’s interactive map.
2. Implementing better management practices for your landscape, especially if you live near a water body.
   • You can help improve the health of wetlands by planting buffer strips of native plants near and around water resources. Here in Sarasota, a 10-foot fertilizer-free zone is recommended.
   • Many Florida counties prohibit the use of fertilizers, including slow-release fertilizers, during the June 01 to Sept. 30 rainy season.
   • Remove invasive species from the landscape. Invasive species, such as Brazilian pepper trees, can encroach and replace native flora and change the function of the wetland.
   • Learn more about best management practices for your landscape by visiting the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ program website (ffl.ifas.ufl.edu) or visiting your local extension office for more information and resources.
3. Help prevent pollution. Clean up after your pet. Pet waste does not just decompose. It adds harmful bacteria (pathogens) and nutrients to local waters. Excess nutrients from animal feces can cause weeds and algae to grow more rapidly than normal, and this can change the balance of the ecosystem.
4. Get involved and volunteer. Contact your local park department and ask about volunteer opportunities in your county. Many public lands, including those that have wetlands, rely on the help of dedicated volunteers to manage the park grounds. Volunteers help with planting of native species, removal of invasive species, and delivering education programming, among others.

You could also donate to the conservation and preservation of wetlands. And, one of the easiest ways to do so is by acquiring a Florida “Conserve Wildlife” license plate/tag. Fees collected during the purchase of the Conserve Wildlife plate go directly to the Foundation’s Conserve Wildlife Tag Grant Program. Grants benefit a wide variety of wildlife species that inhabit and depend on wetlands for their survival.

I hope you enjoy reading and learning about wetlands. And don’t forget to check our recorded webinars.

(Image credits: UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County, Armando Ubeda)

The cachalot eventually died, and authorities are conducting a necropsy to determine the exact cause of death. I received a few calls from people asking me all sorts of questions about whales, so I decided to answer a few of them in this blog.

Are there whales in the Gulf of Mexico?

Yes, there are whales in the Gulf of Mexico. Approximately 21 species of cetaceans inhabit the Gulf of Mexico.

Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) are the most common marine mammals in continental shelf waters (0-200 meters deep). In waters deeper than 200 meters, continental slope, and oceanic waters, there are 21 species widely distributed across the Gulf of Mexico, among these are two large whales: the sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) and the Rice’s whale (Balaenoptera ricei).

Rice’s whales are endemic to the Gulf of Mexico, which means that they are only found here in and no place else. They are the only resident baleen whales in the Gulf of Mexico. Scientists believe that less than 100 individuals remain, which makes Rice’s whales one of the most endangered species of whales in the world. (Read more about Rice’s whales.)

What is a marine mammal stranding?

Stranding is a term used to refer to those occasions when marine mammals (whales, dolphins, manatees, and seals) swim or float onto shore and become “stranded” or “beached” and are unable to return to the open sea.

Why do marine mammals strand?

Strandings of isolated marine mammals are not uncommon, and strandings can result from many different causes, including disease, injury as those caused by ship collisions, entanglement as those produced by fishing gear, disorientation, and starvation. Scientists suggest that whales and dolphins, as air-breathing mammals, may strand when they become incapacitated and seek physical protection.

Stranding events of many live or dead animals over a short period in the same geographic area are rare, but they happen. These events are referred to as “unusual mortality events” by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, and can be the result of events such as a disease outbreak, environmental factors, or oil spills.

What should I do if I encounter a stranded or injured marine mammal?

In Florida, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) to report a stranding. If you can, remain on the scene to provide information to the response team while they are on the way and upon arrival. Maintain your distance from the animal for your safety and that of the animal. And NEVER attempt to push live stranded marine mammals back into the water. While it might seem the right thing to do, it actually can add more stress and extend the animal’s suffering. Also, NEVER touch or handle a live or dead marine mammal. That can result in injury or disease transmission from animal.

What else could I do to help?

You could donate to the Marine Mammal Unusual Mortality Event Contingency Fund. This fund helps the federal Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program respond to marine mammal unusual mortality events. Your contributions will help with expenses related to caring for and treating live animals, collecting samples and performing necropsies to investigate causes of these events, and collecting critical health data to inform and improve future responses. Learn more about this fund and program.

Important definitions from Merriam-Webster Dictionary.

• Baleen whales: any of a suborder (Mysticeti) of usually large whales typically of colder waters that lack teeth but have baleen plates in the upper jaw which are used to filter chiefly small crustaceans (such as krill) out of large quantities of seawater.
• Cachalot: sperm whale.
• Cetaceans: any of an order (Cetacea) of aquatic mostly marine mammals that includes whales, dolphins, porpoises, and related forms and that have a torpedo-shaped nearly hairless body, paddle-shaped forelimbs but no hind limbs, one or two nares opening externally at the top of the head, and a horizontally flattened tail used for locomotion.
• Endemic: restricted or peculiar to a locality or region.
• Necropsy: an autopsy performed on an animal.

Sea turtles are among the most majestic creatures on our planet. With their gentle nature and graceful movements, they have captivated people for centuries. However, these incredible sea dwellers are facing numerous threats that endanger their very existence. From climate change and pollution to habitat loss and poaching, sea turtles need our help now more than ever. Let’s explore how you can make a difference in protecting these magnificent creatures.

Support Conservation Organizations

Numerous organizations are dedicated to protecting and conserving sea turtles. These organizations conduct scientific research, implement conservation projects, rescue injured turtles, and work towards strengthening legislation. Consider donating to reputable sea turtle conservation groups or volunteering your time and skills to assist their efforts. Every little contribution can make a significant impact on their work.

Here in Florida, one of the easiest ways to contribute to sea turtle conservation is by participating in the “Helping Sea Turtles Survive License Plate” program.

Volunteer for Beach Cleanups

Marine pollution is a significant threat to sea turtles. They often mistake plastic debris for food, which can lead to injury or even death. Participating in beach cleanups is an excellent way to directly contribute to their well-being. Join local cleanup initiatives or organize one yourself.

By removing trash from shorelines, we can prevent marine pollution and create safer environments for sea turtles and other marine life.

You can learn more about how marine debris impacts wildlife, by visiting Marinedebris.noaa.gov.

Practice Safe Boating

Sea turtles are commonly found offshore, near-shore waters, and in bays, so you should always keep on the lookout for them. Sea turtles have to come up to the surface for air, and they can be difficult to spot from afar. Boat strikes are a serious threat to these marine reptiles, so it is better to go slow, especially if you see one, slow down and steer around them, and stay away at least 50 yards away, if they are closer, you should put your engine in neutral to prevent injury.

Reduce Plastic Usage

Plastic pollution is a big concern for sea turtles. They can become entangled in discarded fishing nets and ingest plastic waste, leading to severe health complications. Do what you can to reduce the utilization of single-use plastics in your everyday life. Carry a reusable water bottle, bring your own bags when shopping, and avoid using plastic straws and cutlery. Choose more eco-friendly alternatives and encourage others to do the same. Even small changes can help reduce plastic waste in our oceans. To learn more about this issue, and ways to help, you might want to check this recorded webinar.

Respect Their Habitat

If you have the opportunity to visit sea turtle nesting beaches or feeding grounds, be respectful of their natural habitats. Follow local guidelines and regulations to ensure minimal disturbance to nesting turtles or fragile marine ecosystems. Avoid leaving trash behind, follow light regulations during sea turtle nesting season (March to October in Florida), and cover holes after playing on the beach, hatchlings (baby sea turtles) coming out of the nest and on their way to the water can get trapped in those holes and die.

Respecting sea turtle habitats is crucial to maintaining their populations and ensuring their continued survival.  If you come across a sea turtle, keep your distance and do not disturb them.

To learn more about this issue, read my blog, Save turtles: stay low, long and shielded.

Spread Awareness

Knowledge is a powerful tool, and one of the simplest but most effective ways to protect sea turtles is by spreading awareness. Educate yourself about these magnificent marine animals, their habitats, and the threats they face. Then, raise awareness in your own community by telling your friends, family, and community. Engage in discussions, share informative articles, and use social media to spread the word.

By increasing awareness, we can promote empathy and drive people to take action. To learn more about sea turtle conservation, visit www.noaa.gov.

Right now, sea turtles are in desperate need of our protection. By spreading awareness, supporting conservation organizations, participating in beach cleanups, practicing safe boating, reducing plastic usage, and respecting their habitats, we can all contribute to their preservation. Our actions today will have a lasting impact on their future and the health of our oceans.

Recently, we encountered just such a reminder, one involving discarded fishing line and hooks.

Fishing is immensely popular in our area, and the vast majority of those who fish take care to properly dispose of their used or broken lines, to recover and stow hooks, lures, and other gear. But it takes just one carelessly tossed line to entangle a bird or other animal, one hook left snagged on a small tree limb or bush to injure an animal.

That was the reminder we had, when a colleague walking around one of the lakes at Twin Lakes Park spotted a young anhinga snarled in fishing line, helplessly hanging upside down from a tree branch over the water. Occasionally, the bird would muster the strength to frantically flap its wings to free itself. Each time, though, it remained stuck. Without help, disaster awaited the anhinga.

An Impossible Reach 

Making matters worse, the anhinga was stuck on a branch that hung precariously over the lake, its treacherous position leaving no accessible route to assist the distressed bird. Realizing the urgency of the situation, wildlife rescue was called. Luckily, they happened to be in the vicinity and quickly made their way to Twin Lakes Park.

An officer from Sarasota County Animal Services and two deputies with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Agriculture Unit responded. They happened to be nearby, and quickly made it to Twin Lakes Park.

After carefully assessing the situation, they decided to cut the branch to free the anhinga from its tangled state. This decision was not taken lightly, as these professionals understood the impact it might have on an already injured bird.

A Rescue Unfolds 

Armed with specialized tools and wearing protective gear, the rescue team worked to free the anhinga. They cut the branch, and then quickly pulled the bird from the water. A close inspection, then, revealed that fishing line had wrapped around the anhinga’s beak. And, that line was attached to a discarded hook that was now deeply embedded in the bird’s foot.

The rescue team quickly removed the fishing line from the anhinga’s beak. But the hook in her foot proved more of a problem. The rescue team did what they could for the bird on site, then carefully placed her in a carrier and transported her to the Wildlife Center in Venice.

When last we heard, our anhinga friend—whom we have named “Inga”— was alive and seemingly on the path to recovery.

Rescue Epilogue

But Inga’s story is all too common. Fishing is a popular activity around Twin Lake Park, as well as many other Sarasota County locations. For many people, it offers a sense of tranquility and relaxation. But disregarded fishing hooks and lines can have devastating consequences on wildlife, from entanglements to injuries and even death.

The best way to protect wildlife is to always practice safe and responsible fishing. All leftover lines and hooks should be collected and disposed of properly. By taking the time to properly dispose of all hooks and line, and by exercising caution when fishing in areas, we can prevent pollution and harm to wildlife.

If you encounter an entangled bird, do not cut the line! Instead, reel, remove, and release. You can find more information about this here: https://myfwc.com/education/wildlife/unhook/.

Have you ever asked a question about permitting along a shoreline and heard the answer “Well, it depends”? Well, it does! It depends on whether the land or water jurisdiction is private, state, or federally managed.

Furthermore, it depends upon how far offshore your project extends. A sense of overwhelm can quickly arise as one tries to figure out which permit application is necessary and to which agency it needs to be submitted, in some occasions, it can be more than one agency.

Was that regulatory, proprietary, or federal – or all three?! One simple step to remember is that regulatory agents, whether local, state, or federal, are available to assist you with a pre-application meeting. These meetings can help you organize plans and address concerns that might otherwise stall a living shoreline project.

Partners in Permitting

As mentioned in our first blog Partners for Living Shorelines: A Thank You to Colleagues and Course Participants, the FSG Living Shoreline Program is all about partnerships. A current example of this is the Florida Sea Grant and National Estuary Research Reserve (NERR) collaboration that will host Living Shoreline Permitting Workshops across the state…and even extend into Alabama. The workshop is being offered free of charge through the Gulf of Mexico Sea Grant partnership (Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas) and the Gulf of Mexico Alliance-funded “Understanding and Navigating Living Shorelines Permitting“ project. 

As permitting is the backbone of living shoreline installations and maintenance, this half-day course intends to expand the reach and depth of permitting knowledge while taking the fear out of the process. This workshop is open to anyone with a basic knowledge of living shorelines.

Past Living Shorelines for Marine Contractors course participants are primed for this workshop. There will be some basic background about permitting terms and types, but the time allotted will go to a level deeper than a typical overview of permitting.

The main in-person session will be broadcast to six satellite locations across the state (and eastern Alabama) from the University of Florida’s Gainesville campus. After the main broadcast (9 am to 11:30 am), each satellite location will offer additional time with federal, state, and/or local regulators and Sea Grant or NERR agents to address location-specific considerations. Of course, the FSG Living Shoreline Team and our regulator colleagues always recommend a pre-application meeting with your regional regulators to discuss the exact details of your situation.

Interested in registering for a Living Shoreline Permitting Workshop on July 12th?

University of Florida Campus, Gainesville (broadcast session)
Registration: https://bit.ly/3nWG9GT
Host/instructors: Savanna Barry, Florida Sea Grant; Janice Price, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; Zachary Schang, Florida Department of Environmental Protection

Sarasota County (Sarasota County Operations Center)
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/634720635507
Host/instructors: Armando Ubeda, Florida Sea Grant; John Fellows, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; Shanell Bosch, Florida Department of Environmental Protection; Howard Berna, Sarasota County Environmental Permitting

Martin County (UF IFAS Extension Martin County, Stuart)
Registration: https://tinyurl.com/LSPermittingMartin
Host/instructors: Vincent Encomio, Florida Sea Grant; Jacob Zehnder, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; Danielle Sattleberger, Florida Department of Environmental Protection

Weeks Bay NERR (Fairhope, AL)
Registration: https://bit.ly/3ICFL7G
Host/instructors: Rick O’Connor, Florida Sea Grant; Johanna Gertsch, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources / National Estuarine Research Reserve; Holly Millsap, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Guana Tolomato Matanzas NERR (Ponte Vedra Beach)
Registration: https://bit.ly/LSLPermittingWkspGTM
Host: Kaitlyn Dietz, Florida Department of Environmental Protection / National Estuarine Research Reserve; Kathryn Craver, Florida Department of Environmental Protection; Tracy Sanders, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; Kimberly Mann, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Rookery Bay NERR (Naples)
Registration: https://bit.ly/liveshore
Host: Marissa Figueroa, Florida Department of Environmental Protection / National Estuarine Research Reserve; Regulators TBA

Apalachicola NERR (Eastpoint)
Registration: https://bit.ly/3Mzv8E0
Host: Anita Grove, Florida Department of Environmental Protection / National Estuarine Research Reserve, Regulators TBA

What to Bring

Your interest in diving deep into the world of permitting living shorelines! If you are the kind of person who likes to follow along on your own screen, you may find it helpful to bring a laptop or tablet as we will provide electronic copies of several resources. However this is not required. Please see individual registration links above for more information on location-specific details.

It was a great day. A few of my colleagues and some interns joined me, and we talked to a lot of people, and it was fun. We also had a chance to talk to Scooter a Sarasota County lifeguard. Watch Scooter’s video in the YouTube playlist embedded below.

What we do to help the oceans.

I also asked my colleagues in the Extension office, “How does your program contribute to conserving the oceans?” The point of this was not just to celebrate the oceans, and show you how cool my colleagues are; but to convey that we are all connected to the oceans, we all depend on them, and it does not matter what we do or who we are, there is room for everybody when it comes to helping protect a vital part of our planet, the Ocean. Please see the videos below of some of my extension colleagues talking about their contribution to the oceans through their programs.

What can you do?

Want to know what you can do to help protect the oceans? Read our “Oceans Day Challenge” blog to get 10 tips you can use to help the oceans.

Happy World Oceans Day! #OceansDayChallenge

This year, I won’t go into why we are celebrating; you can read about that in one of my previous blogs. But, I will mention that we celebrate the world’s oceans for all of their critical contributions to the survival of our planet (see the super-cool infographic, below). And, I’ll throw in a reminder that the oceans need our help.

Not just your help. Not just my help. But help from everyone.

That is why the theme for this year’s World Ocean Day (June 08) is “Planet Ocean: The Tides Are Changing.” With this theme, the United Nations and its conservation partners emphasize the need to join forces and act now. More specifically, the United Nations has joined forces with decision-makers, indigenous leaders, scientists, private sector executives, civil society, celebrities, and youth activists to put the ocean first.

The point is that we can all get more involved,  and there are many things that you can do to help the oceans, but there is no time to waste, the time is NOW.

You can learn more about this event here by watching this video. And, learn how you can help, with 10 actions you can take in the infographic below.

Or, visit me the Siesta Key main public beach any time from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 08 (Thursday). I will be celebrating World Ocean Day by sharing cool facts about our marine and coastal ecosystems, providing information about things that you can do to help the oceans, and many more.

Again (and always), happy World Oceans Day!

My favorite part of my interactions with the public is the Q&A section. That’s in part because I get to answer things that perhaps I did not cover, and partly because it gives me an opportunity to clarify things or reemphasize a point. Mainly, though, I really enjoy it because the questions sometimes generate great discussions, especially when the question asked does not have a clear answer.

And this blog is about one of those questions. Specifically…

Do sharks sleep?

I have been asked this on a few occasions. Always, before I answer the question, I ask the audience: do all animals sleep? The most common responses are: “Yes, although I am not sure how,” “Of course,” and “I do not know.” This is a complex question, and there is not a simple answer, mainly because of the lack of data.

In a 2008 scientific review titled “Do all animals sleep?“, published in the Trends in Neurosciences journal, Jerome M. Siegel addressed the same question. He concluded that there is not enough evidence that all animals sleep, based on accepted definitions of sleep. He noted that fewer than 50 species of vertebrates—out of 60,000 species—have been properly tested and studied regarding their sleep (or lack thereof).

In “Evidence for Sleep in Sharks and Rays: Behavioural, Physiological, and Evolutionary Considerations,” a 2019 scientific review by Kelly et al. in the Brain, Behaviour and Evolution journal, the authors conducted a literature review of this issue in elasmobranchs. They found information for studies of this type on just 33 species of sharks and one species of rays—out of approximately 1,200 species of sharks and rays. But, of those studies, none focused on sleeping.

In the 11 years between the two reviews, then, there were very few scientific advancements regarding sleep in sharks and rays. And, the question remains unanswered.

This is in part due to a lack of understanding some aspects of elasmobranch biology, such as breathing, according to Kelly et al. A large majority of elasmobranchs breathe by ram ventilation, which means that they need to swim with their mouth open to allow oxygen-rich water to flow through their gills. These types of fishes are known as “obligated swimmers.” But, animals need to significantly reduce activity to sleep. For an obligated swimmer, that means reducing something they must do all the time to breathe.

The Kelly team pointed out, though, that some obligated swimmer species of elasmobranchs have shown the capacity to reduce activity, and some others even have the ability to become inactive for short periods time. Which could create conditions for sleeping.

And that brings us back to the question: are sharks sleeping during these inactivity periods?

And that brings us back to the same answer: we do not know. At least, for now. Perhaps you would like to become an elasmobranch ecologist and figure this one out.

Important Definitions

Elasmobranchs: any of a subclass (Elasmobranchii) of cartilaginous fishes that have five to seven lateral to ventral gill openings on each side and that comprise the sharks, rays, skates, and extinct related fishes

Vertebrates: any of a subphylum (Vertebrata) of chordates that comprises animals (such as mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fishes) typically having a bony or cartilaginous spinal column that replaces the notochord, a distinct head containing a brain which arises as an enlarged part of the nerve cord, and an internal usually bony skeleton and that includes some primitive forms (such as lampreys) in which the spinal column is absent and the notochord persists throughout life.

Sleep: the natural, easily reversible periodic state of many living things that is marked by the absence of wakefulness and by the loss of consciousness of one’s surroundings, is accompanied by a typical body posture (such as lying down with the eyes closed), the occurrence of dreaming, and changes in brain activity and physiological functioning, is made up of cycles of REM (rapid eye movement) and non-REM sleep, and is usually considered essential to the restoration and recovery of vital bodily and mental functions.

Featured image by Carlos Grillo – stock.adobe.com

References:

• Siegel,  J.M.: “Do all animals sleep?“, Trends in Neurosciences. 2008 Apr;31(4):208-13. doi: 10.1016/j.tins.2008.02.001. Epub 2008 Mar 6. PMID: 18328577; PMCID: PMC8765194.
• Kelly, M.L.; Collin, S.P.; Hemmi, J.M.; and Lesku, J.A.: “Evidence for Sleep in Sharks and Rays: Behavioural, Physiological, and Evolutionary Considerations,” Brain, Behaviour and Evolution. 2019;94:37-50. doi: 10.1159/000504123

To learn more about the Gulf of Mexico Resilience and Community of Practice, visit our website: https://masgc.org/climate-resilience-community-of-practice/about1

Exact Times:

May 15th: The Embassy Suites,  12:30 pm- 5:00 pm

May 16th: Mote Marine Laboratory (1600 Ken Thompson Parkway),  8:00 am- 5:00 pm (with evening awards banquet and reception)

May 17th: The Embassy Suites Sarasota (202 North Tamiami Trail),   8:00 am -12: 00 pm

And our Host Hotel is: The Embassy Suites Sarasota For those flying in, there is a free hotel shuttle to/from the Sarasota/Bradenton airport. *If you are a federal employee, please contact Tracie Sempier (tracie.sempier@usm.edu) for hotel options that fit within the federal per diem. Registration: $100 (includes lunch and dinner on October 5th as well as snacks and beverages throughout the meeting) *Local government officials can register for free. Please contact Tracie Sempier at tracie.sempier@usm.edu or (228) 818-8829 for more information. We hope to see you there, Armando J. Ubeda

Independientemente de cuándo me contacten, algunas preguntas son más fáciles de responder; preguntas como: ¿Qué es la marea roja? ¿Qué causa la marea roja? O, ¿dónde puedo consultar el estado de la marea roja en Florida? Y existe buena información que cubre este tipo de preguntas, incluido un excelente blog sobre la marea roja, publicado por algunos de mis colegas en Florida Sea Grant.

Sin embargo, pronto, podríamos tener una respuesta para otra pregunta: ¿Hay algo que podamos hacer para controlar la marea roja?

La Dra. Kristy Lewis, profesora de biología en la Universidad de Florida Central, y la Dra. Emily Hall, científica y gerente de uno de los programas de investigación de Mote Marine Laboratory, se encuentran entre un grupo de científicos que prueban en el campo una tecnología de mitigación llamada “floculación de arcilla”. ” Esta técnica utiliza una solución de arcilla para atraer y unir las células de marea roja y hundir los agregados hasta el fondo.

El estudio utiliza una serie de limnocorrales, dispositivos que permiten aislar columnas de agua en el sitio. El grupo coloca limnocorrales en un cuerpo de agua afectado por la marea roja y luego rocía las estructuras con la solución de arcilla. Luego miden el número de celdas de marea roja removidas de la columna de agua, contadas dentro de cada limnocorral.

Para ver rápidamente cómo rocían la solución de arcilla, consulte este video de estudio de floculación de arcilla: Clay flocculation study.

Esta es la primera vez que esta tecnología se prueba en Florida fuera del laboratorio y en un cuerpo de agua afectado activamente por la marea roja. Aunque todavía no tenemos los resultados finales de este estudio, los resultados parecen muy prometedores. Y, con mi papel ayudando a difundir este estudio, quería compartir que esta investigación extremadamente importante está en marcha.

Esperamos tener resultados finales pronto. Por lo tanto, consulte este espacio regularmente para conocer las últimas noticias.

Regardless of when I am contacted, some questions are easier to answer; questions such as: What is red tide? What causes red tide? Or, where can I check the status of red tide in Florida? And there is good information out there covering these types of questions, including a great blog about red tide, published by some of my colleagues at Florida Sea Grant.

Soon, we might have an answer for another question: Is there anything we can do to control red tide?

Dr. Kristy Lewis, assistant professor of biology at the University of Central Florida, and Dr. Emily Hall, senior scientist and program manager with Mote Marine Laboratory, are among a group of scientists testing in the field a mitigation technology called “clay flocculation.” This technique uses a clay solution to attract and bind red tide cells together, and sink the clusters to the bottom.

The study uses a series of limnocorrals, devices that allow isolating columns of water on site. The group places limnocorrals on a body of water affected by red tide and then sprays the structures with the clay solution. They then measure the number of red tide cells removed from the water column, as counted inside each limnocorral.

For a quick look at how they spray the clay solution, please check this clay flocculation study video.

This is the first time that this technology has been tested in Florida outside the lab and in a body of water actively affected by red tide. Though we do not yet have final results of this study, the results seem very promising. And, with my role helping to get out word of this study, I wanted to share that this extremely important research is underway.

We expect to have final results soon. So, check this space regularly for the latest news.

Actualización: En los próximos días, los Centros de Recuperación de Desastre (DRC por sus siglas en inglés), se abrirán en áreas que fueron afectadas por el huracán Ian. La información sobre muchos de los programas y servicios de asistencia por desastre que se describen a continuación estará disponible en los DRC.

Actualmente, el condado de Lee tiene el primer Centro de Recuperación de Desastre (DRC) abierto proveyendo servicios de FEMA (Agencia Federal de Manejo de Emergencias).

El gobierno federal ya ha creado una página específicamente para los afectados por el huracán Ian. En este sitio web, usted puede ver si califica para asistencia, cómo solicitar asistencia directa si usted fue afectado por el huracán, y también asistencia por pérdida de trabajo por culpa del huracán.

La Administración de Pequeños Negocios de USA (SBA, por sus siglas en inglés) ofrece préstamos de bajo interés para ayudar a las empresas y a los propietarios de viviendas a recuperarse de los desastres.

El Centro de Desarrollo de Pequeñas Empresas de Florida (SBDC, por sus siglas en inglés) tiene una red de oficinas en todo el estado dispuestas a ayudar a las personas afectadas por el huracán Ian. El SBDC puede ayudar a los propietarios de pequeñas empresas a buscar y solicitar asistencia de préstamos por desastre, y desarrollar e implementar estrategias de recuperación diseñadas para mantener su negocio a flote.

El Programa de Préstamos de Emergencia para Pequeñas Empresas de Florida del Departamento de Oportunidades Económicas de Florida proporciona préstamos de capital de trabajo a corto plazo y sin interés, esto es para cerrar la brecha entre el momento en que un desastre afecta a una empresa y cuando una empresa ha obtenido fondos de recuperación a más largo plazo, como préstamos disponibles comercialmente o a nivel federal, reclamos de seguros u otros recursos. El monto máximo del préstamo es de $50,000 con un plazo de un año. Actualmente, los préstamos están disponibles para empresas establecidas antes del 24 de septiembre de 2022, ubicadas en Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Monroe, Orange, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, Condados de Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns y Volusia. Haga clic aquí para obtener más información y para iniciar una aplicación

Los productores de acuicultura que participan en el Programa de Asistencia de Emergencia para Ganado, Abejas y Peces Criados en Granja (ELAP, por sus siglas en inglés) del USDA o en el Programa de Asistencia para Desastres de Cultivo No Asegurados (NAP, por sus siglas en inglés) del USDA pueden ser elegibles para recibir ayuda. Ambos programas son administrados por la Agencia de Servicios Agrícolas (FAS, por sus siglas en inglés) del USDA, y los productores deben comunicarse con su oficina local de la FSA para obtener información sobre cómo hacer un reclamo, en otras palabras, solicitar asistencia.

Varias fuentes están disponibles para los miembros de la industria que necesitan asistencia.
Dado al daño causado por el huracán Ian a sectores de las industrias de pesca y acuicultura de Florida, es probable que el estado de Florida solicite al Departamento de Comercio de los USA que declare un desastre de recursos pesqueros federales en los próximos días. El enlace a continuación proporciona un resumen de los pasos a seguir para hacer una declaración de desastre de pesca, el enlace incluye información sobre qué determina la aprobación de la asistencia, e información sobre la asistencia luego que los fondos han sido asignados si se determina que ha ocurrido un desastre.

Si bien cada desastre y el programa de financiamiento de asistencia asociado son diferentes, el programa de ayuda en caso de desastre implementado después del huracán Michael incluyó financiamiento en forma de pagos directos a los operadores de alquiler/chárter afectados, a acuicultores, a pescadores comerciales y comerciantes mayoristas comerciales, reembolsos para reparaciones de instalaciones no aseguradas, como centros de acopio, puertos y muelles.

Es importante tener en cuenta que la declaración de desastre pesquero y el proceso del programa de asistencia de socorro implican múltiples pasos y no brindan socorro a corto plazo (los pagos generalmente ocurren varios años después del desastre). Los miembros de la industria pesquera o acuícola, que necesiten financiamiento inmediato deben buscar otros programas:

• DisasterAssistance.gov
• U.S. Small Business Administration
• Florida Small Business Development Center Network

Compilado por:

Andrew Ropicki, Especialista en Economía de Recursos Marinos, Extensión UF/IFAS Florida Sea Grant
Scott Jackson, Agente Regional ESpecializado, UF/IFAS Extension Bay County, Florida Sea Grant

Versión original de este blog en inglés: https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/bayco/2022/10/03/ian_fishery_disaster/

Algunos ejemplos de cosas que uno necesita saber son cómo asegurar las ventanas de su casa; cómo evitar ser defraudados por contratistas en caso de que su vivienda fuese impactada por un huracán; conocer cuáles son las agencias a las cuales se les puede solicitar ayuda, por ejemplo saber que usted puede aplicar a un préstamo de FEMA (Agencia Federal de Manejo de Emergencias por sus siglas en Ingles), entre otros.

Hay una serie de manuales para aprender cómo prepararse y responder luego de un desastre natural costero en la página web de la  Alianza del Golfo de Mexico (Gulf of Mexico Alliance) para cada uno de los estados en el Golfo de México. Lo mejor de todo es que estos manuales se pueden descargar de forma gratuita. La mayoría están en Ingles, pero hay una version en español para el Estado de Texas. 

https://gulfofmexicoalliance.org/resources/publications/

El manual en español para Texas, es un manual que le explica cómo preparar su vivienda para enfrentar desastres naturales costeros, como el huracán Ian, que no solo afectó viviendas aledañas a la costa sino también comunidades alejadas de la costa. Aunque el manual diga que es para el estado de Texas, la mayor parte de la información es relevante para todos los estados en el Golfo de México, como Florida. De hecho, hay un manual para Florida, en Ingles, que es prácticamente igual a esta  versión  en español que se escribió para el Estado de Texas.

Mientras la versión para Florida en español no esté disponible, le recomiendo que baje la versión de Texas y la de Florida en inglés, así tendrá los números de las agencias estatales locales.

Nunca es tarde para prepararse, y si usted fue recientemente afectado por el huracán Ian, este manual también le será útil.

Well, sort of.

With reptiles and amphibians, yes, the animal’s internal body temperature does vary related to the environment. With fish, though, this is just partially true, as a few species are partially warm-blooded. And among these fish are five species of sharks, all in the Lamnidae family.

Lamnidae: Warm-blooded sharks

Endothermy is the ability of an organism to metabolically produce heat to achieve a stable body temperature. This is a pretty cool evolutionary trait, as organisms that can regulate their temperature are a bit more independent from environmental thermal fluctuations¹.

The Lamnidae is a family of elasmobranchs belonging to the order Lamniformes. Members of this family are also known as isurids, or mackerel sharks². This unique elasmobranch family comprises three genera and five species, including the white shark (Carcharodon carcharias), one of the most recognized and infamous sharks responsible for the highest number of unprovoked and provoked attacks recorded worldwide³. The other members of this family are the longfin mako (Isurus paucus), the shortfin mako (Isurus oxirynchus), the porbeagle (Lamna nasus), and the salmon shark (Lamna ditropis).

Sharks in this family have the unique ability to elevate their internal body temperatures above that of their surrounding environment by re-using some of the heat produced by the muscles they use to swim. This allows these sharks to inhabit colder waters while maintaining higher-intensity and sustained swimming.

How does this work?

These five species of sharks have large masses of red muscle along their sides, in a more anterior position nearer their spines. This allows their bodies to remain rigid and then retain heat generated by the muscle contraction. And that, in turn, creates internal body temperatures that are higher than surrounding waters and can remain fairly stable, even as the sharks move from warm surface waters to colder, deep waters⁴.

The retention of heat is possible due to an arrangement of highly branched blood vessels known as the “rete mirabile,” a Latin phrase meaning “wonderful net.” As arterial, oxygenated blood flows toward the muscles near the core of the body, it passes through the rete mirabile, and the blood runs countercurrent to warm blood leaving the muscles. The oxygenated blood warms as it passes through the rete and travels toward the swimming muscles. So, the heat generated by the activity of the large, swimming, red muscles returns to the muscles themselves, rather than transports via the blood to the gills, preventing heat from being lost to the external environment.

Why is this important?

All species in this family are oceanic pelagic sharks, seating at the top of the oceanic food web. They are among the most active oceanic apex predators⁵, playing important ecological roles in maintaining healthy oceanic ecosystems⁶. Part of their predatory success could definitely be attributed to their capacity to partially produced heat.

Featured image by Serhii – stock.adobe.com

References

1. Wang, X., Qu, M., Liu, Y., Schneider, R. F., Song, Y., Chen, Zhang, S., (2022). “Genomic basis of evolutionary adaptation in a warm-blooded fish. The Innovation,” 3(1), 100185.
2. Castro, JI (2011). “The sharks of North America.” Oxford University Press, Inc.
3. International Shark Attack File (2021). www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/shark-attacks
4. Helfman, GS, Collette, BB, Facey, DE, Bowen, BW, (2009) .”The Diversity of Fishes: Biology, Evolution, and Ecology” (Second Edition). Wiley-Blackwell
5. Shadwick, RE, (2005). “How Tunas and Lamnid Sharks Swim: An Evolutionary Convergence.” American Scientist. 93:524 – 531
6. Myers, RA, Baum, JK, Shepherd, TD, Powers, SP, Peterson, CH, (2007). “Cascading Effects of the Loss of Apex Predatory Sharks from a Coastal Ocean.” Science. 315:1846-1850

To learn more about the Gulf of Mexico Resilience and Community of Practice, visit our website: https://masgc.org/climate-resilience-community-of-practice/about1

Exact Times:

October 4th: Selby Public Library (1331 1st Street), 1:00 pm- 5:00 pm
October 5th: Mote Marine Laboratory (1600 Ken Thompson Parkway) 8:00 am- 5:00 pm (with evening awards banquet and reception)
October 6th: The Embassy Suites Sarasota (202 North Tamiami Trail) 8:00 am -12: 00 pm

And our Host Hotel is: The Embassy Suites Sarasota

For those flying in, there is a free hotel shuttle to/from the Sarasota/Bradenton airport.
*If you are a federal employee, please contact Tracie Sempier (tracie.sempier@usm.edu) for hotel options that fit within the federal per diem.

Registration: $100 (includes lunch and dinner on October 5th as well as snacks and beverages throughout the meeting) *Local government officials can register for free. Please contact Tracie Sempier at tracie.sempier@usm.edu or (228) 818-8829 for more information.

We hope to see you there, Libby Carnahan and Armando J. Ubeda

There are many reasons why, but one of the main reasons is that people are eager to learn more about these fascinating creatures. So, in addition to my presentations, I decided to start “Shark Bits,” a series of blog posts highlighting cool facts about sharks and rays. Of course, if you have a question, you can submit your shark question any time using this form, and I will answer it in a blog post.

Thank you, and I hope you enjoy the first edition of “Shark Bits.”

Shark Reproduction

The earliest shark fossil record dates back to the early Devonian Period, around 410 million years ago. That is about 200 million years before the earliest dinosaurs walked the earth. Since then, sharks have been through many evolutionary adaptations, which have helped them become some of the most successful fishes in the ocean. Among those remarkable adaptations that have contributed to their survival and evolutionary success are their reproductive adaptations. One of these prodigious adaptations is internal fertilization.

Fertilization is the union of a sperm nucleus, of paternal origin, with an egg nucleus, of maternal origin, to form the primary nucleus of an embryo. In other words, fertilization is the process of fertilizing an egg produced by a female animal or plant, involving the fusion of male and female gametes to give rise to a new individual organism.

The vast majority of bony fishes, such as groupers, snappers, and snook, rely on external fertilization. That means that sperm and eggs are released into the external environment, and fertilization does not occur inside the female. One big disadvantage of external fertilization is that a large number of gametes (eggs and sperm) are wasted and left unfertilized. Also, the chances of fertilization are reduced by environmental factors and predators, to the point that eggs and sperm might never come into contact.

All elasmobranchs—cartilaginous fishes, including all sharks and rays—developed internal fertilization, which occurs inside the female reproductive tract. One of the main advantages of this advanced reproductive adaptation is that the fertilized egg is protected from predators and harsh environments, increasing the survival of the fertilized egg.

CLASPERS

For internal fertilization to occur, though, a mechanism for injecting the sperm into the female reproductive system must exist. Sharks and rays have developed copulatory organs, known as claspers. These intromittent organs (or, specialized external organs) are elongated modifications of the pelvic fins.

Claspers are present in all male sharks and rays, and absent in all female sharks and rays. Therefore, by looking at the ventral region of a shark or a ray—in other words, its underside—you can tell if you are viewing a female or male shark.

The use of claspers in elasmobranchs influences their reproductive success. And, the retention of fertilized eggs by females opens the door for other advanced reproductive strategies displayed by some elasmobranchs. One such strategy is viviparity, or the retention and growth of the fertilized egg within the maternal body until the newborn is capable of independent existence.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post, and are ready for more “Shark Bits.” At the least, now you know how to tell a female shark from a male shark, which might help to impress your friends next time you visit your local aquarium or go on your next diving trip.

Featured image by Nautilus Creative – stock.adobe.com

Cada año, hay un tema para el Día Mundial de los Océanos. El tema de este año es “revitalización: acción colectiva por el océano”. Este tema reconoce que las personas de todo el mundo deben trabajar juntas para proteger nuestros océanos, y debemos actuar ahora; después de todo, los océanos producen al menos la mitad del oxígeno del mundo, alimentan a miles de millones de personas, contribuyen a la economía mundial y albergan la mayor biodiversidad de la Tierra.

Por lo tanto, los desafío a que me acompañen a revitalizar nuestros océanos siendo parte de la solución a un problema global; el problema de los desechos marinos, especialmente el problema de la contaminación plástica. Los plásticos son la forma más común de desechos marinos.

Los desechos marinos se definen como cualquier material sólido persistente que se fabrica o procesa y directa o indirectamente, intencionalmente o no, se desecha o se abandona en el medio ambiente marino o en los Grandes Lagos. En otras palabras, productos creados por nosotros que terminan en los océanos.

Entre los impactos de los desechos marinos se encuentran los daños a los hábitats, las pérdidas económicas, los daños a la infraestructura, los peligros para la navegación, la facilitación del transporte de especies invasoras y los impactos negativos en la salud humana y la vida silvestre.

La buena noticia es que hay muchas cosas que puedes hacer desde donde estás para ayudar y ser parte de la solución. Cosas que puedes poner en práctica en casa, en la escuela, en la tienda, en el agua y en la costa, y que marcarán una gran diferencia en nuestros esfuerzos para ayudar a nuestros océanos y ayudarnos a nosotros mismos.

Feliz día mundial de los océanos. Di no a los productos de plástico de un solo uso. Haz tu parte. Y disfruta de los océanos.

Every year, there is a theme for World Ocean Day. This year’s theme is “revitalization: collective action for the ocean.” This theme recognizes that people around the globe need to work together to protect our oceans. And we should be on it; after all, the oceans produce at least half of the world’s oxygen, feed billions of people, contribute to the world economy, and host the most biodiversity on Earth.

Therefore, I am challenging you to join me to help revitalize our oceans by being part of the solution to a global problem; the problem of marine debris, especially the problem of plastic pollution. Plastics are the most common form of marine debris.

Marine debris is defined as any persistent solid material that is manufactured or processed and directly or indirectly, intentionally or unintentionally, disposed of or abandoned in the marine environment or the Great Lakes. In other words, products created by us that end up in the oceans.

Among the impacts of marine debris are damage to habitats, economic loss, damage to infrastructure, navigation hazards, facilitation of transport of invasive species, and negative impacts on human health and wildlife.

The great news is that there are many things that you can do from where you are to help and take action. Things that you can put into action at home, at school, at the store, on the water, and the shore, and that will make a big difference in our efforts to help our oceans, and to help ourselves.

Happy World Oceans Day. Say no to single-use plastic products. Do your part. And, enjoy the oceans.

En Florida, en 2020, según el Informe estadístico de accidentes de navegación en de la Comisión de Conservación de Vida Silvestre y Pesca de Florida (FWC), 70 personas perdieron la vida en accidentes de navegación, y Florida fue el estado con el mayor número de muertes; el segundo fue Texas con 55, seguido de California con 33.

Según las estadísticas de la Guardia Costera de EE. UU. del año 2020, el ahogamiento fue la causa de muerte en el 75 % de todas las muertes en accidentes de navegación. De esas víctimas, el 86% por ciento no usaba sus chalecos salvavidas, y dos tercios de las víctimas de ahogamiento se consideraban buenos nadadores.

Por lo tanto, UNA COSA que todos los navegantes pueden hacer para evitar fatalidades es usar sus chalecos salvavidas ya que los accidentes pueden ocurrir en cualquier momento. Pero no basta con llevar un chaleco salvavidas; necesitas llevar el chaleco salvavidas adecuado. Y para eso, necesitas seguir estos pasos sencillos:

1) Asegúrese de que el chaleco salvavidas esté aprobado por la Guardia Costera de EE. UU. Todos los chalecos salvavidas que hayan sido aprobados por la Guardia Costera de los EE. UU.

lo indicarán en la etiqueta impresa en el interior del chaleco salvavidas.

2) Debe usar el chaleco salvavidas adecuado para la actividad correcta. Hay chalecos salvavidas que en forma de faja alojan un chaleco inflable y estos son utilizados por las personas que navegan remando de pie sobre tablas. Hay chalecos salvavidas para pescadores y tripulantes de embarcaciones con motores fuera de borda diseñados en forma de tirantes, incluso algunos de estos chalecos se inflan automáticamente al hacer contacto directo con el agua, hay chalecos salvavidas para embarcaciones personales y para deportes acuáticos que proveen flotabilidad todo el tiempo, hay chalecos salvavidas diseñados especialmente para niños, incluso hay chalecos salvavidas para mascotas.

3) Los chalecos salvavidas deben quedar bien. No querrás que tu chaleco salvavidas sea demasiado grande o demasiado pequeño.

4) Su chaleco salvavidas debe estar en buenas condiciones. Los chalecos salvavidas con roturas, pedazos rotos o pérdida de flotabilidad deben desecharse y reemplazarse. Los chalecos salvavidas no tienen fecha de vencimiento; pero su estado dependerá de lo bien que los cuides.

Otros recursos:

Para obtener más información sobre las estadísticas de accidentes de navegación en Florida, siga este enlace: https://myfwc.com/boating/safety-education/accidents/

Para obtener más información sobre cómo cuidar su chaleco salvavidas, siga este enlace: https://www.boatus.org/life-jackets/care/

Para obtener más información sobre cómo leer la etiqueta de su chaleco salvavidas, siga este enlace: https://safeboatingcampaign.com/news/new-life-jacket-labels/

Feliz semana nacional de navegación segura, use su chaleco salvavidas, y nos vemos en el agua.

In Florida, in 2020, according to Florida Boating Accident Statistical Report by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 70 people lost their lives in boating accidents, and Florida was the state with the highest number of fatalities; the second was Texas with 55, followed by California with 33.

According to 2020 U.S. Coast Guard Statistics, drowning was the reported cause of death in 75% percent of all boating fatalities. Of those victims, 86% percent were not wearing their life jackets, and two-thirds of drowning victims were considered good swimmers.

Therefore, ONE THING that all boaters can do to prevent fatalities is to wear their life jackets since accidents can happen at any moment. But just wearing a life jacket is not enough; you

need to wear the right life jacket. And for that, you need to follow these simple steps:

1) Be sure the life jacket is U.S. Coast Guard-approved. All life jackets that have been approved by the U.S. Coast Guard will indicate that in the label printed on the inside of the life jacket.

2) You should wear the right life jacket for the right activity. There are life jackets for standup paddlers with belt-pack inflatable, or life jackets for anglers and open motor boats with suspender inflatable, or personal water crafts and water sports life jackets that are inherently buoyant, or life jacket designed especially for children, and even life jackets for pets.

3) Life jackets should fit just right. You do not want your life jacket too large or too small.

4) Your life jacket should be in good condition. Life jackets with a tear, broken pieces, or buoyancy loss should be disposed and replaced. Life jackets do not have expiration date; but their condition will depend on how good their owners take care of them.

Other resources:

For more information about boating accidents statistics in Florida, please follow this link: https://myfwc.com/boating/safety-education/accidents/

For more information about how to care for your life jacket, please follow this link: https://www.boatus.org/life-jackets/care/

For more information about how to read your life jacket label, please follow this link: https://safeboatingcampaign.com/news/new-life-jacket-labels/

Happy national safe boating week, wear your life jacket, and see you in the water.

Una forma de medir la igualdad de género es observar la brecha de género global. La brecha de género es la diferencia entre mujeres y hombres que se refleja en los logros sociales, políticos, intelectuales, culturales o económicos. El Foro Económico Mundial utiliza el Índice Global de Brecha de Género para medir la brecha entre mujeres y hombres en cuatro áreas clave: salud, educación, economía y política.

Según el Informe Global de Brecha de Género de 2021 del Foro Económico Mundial, a nivel mundial, la distancia promedio completada hacia la paridad (es decir, qué tan cerca se alinean los datos de hombres y mujeres) es del 68%. La brecha de género en el empoderamiento político es la más grande de las cuatro áreas, solamente se ha podido reducir esa brecha en un 22%. Le sigue la participación y oportunidades económicas con el 58% de esa brecha cerrada. La brecha de género tanto en el logro educativo como en la salud/supervivencia está casi cerrada, en un 95 %. Con base en estas medidas y la tasa actual de progreso, el Foro Económico Mundial estimó que tomará casi 136 años cerrar la brecha de género en todo el mundo. Impactante, ¿no?

La buena noticia es que esto es solo una estimación basada en el ritmo actual de progreso. Podemos hacer más como individuos, como sociedad y como país. Todos podemos ser parte de la solución. Sería genial si, al menos durante la vida de mis hijas, la brecha entre mujeres y hombres se cerrara por completo en las cuatro áreas clave medidas por el Foro Económico Mundial.

Únase a mí para celebrar el Día Internacional de la Mujer y apoyar el tema declarado por las Naciones Unidas de este año: “igualdad de género para un mañana sostenible”. Me gustaría celebrar las grandes contribuciones que otros agentes de extensión de UF/IFAS, especialmente mujeres, han hecho hacia la sostenibilidad y la adaptación climática.

Y si desea obtener más información sobre el Día Internacional de la Mujer y las cosas que podría hacer para reducir la brecha entre mujeres y hombres, visite el sitio web del Día de la Mujer de las Naciones Unidas.

It came out from above the canopy of some pine trees along Interstate 75, gliding, almost motionless compared to the cars driving underneath. The bird disappeared quickly, but I knew right away what it was. The black-and-white colors and the deeply forked tail gave it away. It was my first swallow-tailed kite (Elanoides forficatus) of 2022 in Florida.

Between February and September, swallow-tailed kites are not uncommon in Florida. But for four months of the year, this elegant bird of prey is pretty much gone. By early September, the majority of swallow-tailed kites migrate south, crossing the Caribbean, on their way to South America, and some migrate around the Gulf of Mexico.

The swallow-tailed kite comes to Florida to breed. Courtship may involve aerial chases by both sexes, which can be quite a display of aerial acrobatics since swallow-tail kites are excellent fliers. And it is either soaring or gliding over tree canopies where you tend to see them more often.

This bird flight is so beautiful that even the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) uses the drawing of a flying swallow-tailed kite on its “Great Florida Birding Trail” signs.

When ready to nest, swallow-tail kites will pick tall trees in or near open woodland; typically, pine trees taller than 60 feet. Both parents will care and feed the young for about six weeks after hatching from the egg (between one and three per nest), until the offspring are ready to fly away from their nest. (Watch a Florida Museum video of parents feeding two 14-days-old juvenile swallow-tailed kites)

In Florida, the greatest threat to swallow-tailed kites is habitat destruction. FWC noted that in South Florida, due to loss of nesting habitat, these birds are often forced to nest in unstable Australian pines* where nests fail due to wind. Once kites leave Florida, major threats are also habitat destruction of stopovers (area where birds pause during their migration route) and wintering grounds.

And just like the swallow-tailed kite, there are other magnificent and interesting species of birds that are not permanent residents of our state. So, if you live here or are just visiting, make sure that you visit and go out birding during different times of the year so you can enjoy the great diversity of birds species that we have in Florida.

Perhaps this blog might inspire you to go outside and and visit your local parks. And, do not forget to look up. You might just see a swallow-tailed kite.

* For more information about Australian pines, and other invasive species of trees, please follow this link.