Ecosystems

Nov 29, 2021

What Causes Anglers to Leave Behind Less Fishing Line and Other Litter?

A first-of-its-kind study in Patagonia reveals that anglers will litter less when they understand how their activities affect the environment.

A beach seine for sampling small fish from shore

Nov 1, 2021

Are Red Drum Gone With the Wind?

A new study looked at several environmental factors and how they affected the numbers of red drum in coastal NC waters.

Oct 18, 2021

Does Oyster Farming Benefit Other Aquatic Animals?

A new study reveals that certain types of oyster farming support comparable or greater rates of predatory feeding than natural oyster reefs.

Oct 11, 2021

What Affects the Success of Divers When They Try to Remove Lionfish?

Experience — and time of day — are key factors influencing the effectiveness of lionfish removal.

Oct 4, 2021

What’s the Status of American Eels in North Carolina’s Tidal Creeks?

Scientists looked at whether development on tidal creek terrain affected the survival rate of yellow-phase American eels.

Sep 27, 2021

How Can We Increase the Numbers of Fish on Artificial Reefs?

Research shows that adding “prey refuge bags” to artificial reefs improves fish populations — and it even raises the chances that anglers will have success.

Sep 13, 2021

How Do Hurricanes Affect Coral Reef Fish?

Underwater sounds can provide important clues about the ecological health of a reef fish community.

A summer flounder recently caught on a wooden dock

Sep 6, 2021

Ready for a Pop Quiz on Southern Flounder?

The latest science from North Carolina researchers is required reading.

Aug 9, 2021

Does Restricting Fishing Activity Actually Benefit Reef Fish?

New science explores the effectiveness of marine protected areas.

Chesapeake Bay oyster reef image via NOAA.

Jun 14, 2021

Does Protecting Oyster Reefs Benefit Other Marine Organisms?

Creating no-harvest zones on oyster reefs helps the fish -- and crustaceans living on the reefs, too.