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North Carolina Sea Grant
NC Sea Grant Logo Hook, Line and Science

Dave Shaw

image: white grunt.

Dec 8, 2025

Where, when, and why do white grunts live off the Carolinas?

Scientists document long-term patterns of a fish most popular with children and beginners.
image: humpback whale underwater.

Nov 24, 2025

Would a humpback whale pass a basic human eye test?

Some whale species may see the world differently than we assumed.
image: blue crabs.

Nov 10, 2025

Why is North Carolina’s blue crab population declining?

Scientists look at clues from times before and after the decrease began. 
image: red drum.

Oct 27, 2025

Does pharmaceutical pollution pose a risk to red drum?

A new study of Florida estuaries reveals potential impacts on the health of the species.
image: Anglers identify signs of barotrauma on a red snapper.

Oct 13, 2025

How does deep hooking affect red snapper survival?

Jaw-hooked red snapper and deep-hooked red snapper respond differently after release.
image: canned tuna.

Sep 29, 2025

Which seafood contains the most mercury?

A new study highlights mercury concentrations in common products.
image: Oyster replenishment.

Sep 15, 2025

What strategies help revive public oyster grounds?

Rotating harvests and replenishing shells help oyster reefs recover, while still supporting fishing.
image: Otolith cross-section.

Sep 2, 2025

How old is that fish — and why does it matter?

NOAA Fisheries scientists can estimate a fish’s age by analyzing ear bones, scales, or spines.
image: juvenile stone crab.

Aug 11, 2025

How does claw harvesting affect stone crabs?

Harvesting stone crab claws can weaken their nutritional health and raise parasite levels.
image: Ship passing through Panama Canal.

Jul 14, 2025

What happens when oceans connect?

Expansion of the Panama Canal reshapes local ecosystems.