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North Carolina Sea Grant
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Ecosystems

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.
image of Atlantic menhaden

Jun 7, 2021

Where Are You Most Likely to Find Juvenile Atlantic Menhaden?

New research shows that many small schools of “the most important fish in the sea” live close together in shallow creek waters.

May 17, 2021

Do Water Snakes Get Thirsty?

New research shows that snakes in watery habitats are sensitive to dehydration.
A man holding a mahi-mahi caught off of Hatteras Island.

May 3, 2021

What Depth and Water Temperature Do Mahi-Mahi Prefer?

Satellite-tagged mahi-mahi spend about 40% of their time near the surface and 95% of their day in water 77 to 84°F. A quick search online reveals that many anglers want…
image: Atlantic cracker.

Apr 5, 2021

What Do Fish Fossils Reveal About Environmental Conditions in North Carolina’s Coastal Plain Several Million Years Ago?

Bladen County was likely a primary nursery area for Atlantic croaker and spot.  

Oct 5, 2020

Does the Type of Habitat Affect Juvenile Fish?

Research shows sportfish generally have higher populations in natural and restored habitats.

Jul 27, 2020

How Diverse Are Temperate Reef Fishes on the Southeast Coast?

Over a three-year period, scientists observed 138 species of fish.

May 25, 2020

Do Artificial Reefs Enhance Fish Habitats?

A new study demonstrates that artificial reefs benefit fish communities.

Apr 27, 2020

Can Insight from Ancient Oysters Provide Solutions for Modern Oyster Management?

The fossil record may suggest keys to protecting the modern-day species.

Jan 13, 2020

Why Should We Protect Coastal Habitats?

Coastal habitats are vital for the state’s important fish species, as well as for fish that migrate along the East Coast.