Learning Resources
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Splashing Into the Science of Sea Turtle Conservation
6:00 PM — finally. Time to wake up. Headlamp. Check. Waterproof shoes. Check. Field journal. Let’s go. Meeting at the field station, we huddle under the overhang with our trusty stray dog sidekicks. Rocky, a charismatic mutt, greets us, tail wagging, excited for a long night at the beach. After swatting away what seems like a million mosquitos, we grab our gear and head to the beach. As the lightning strikes light the sky and illuminate our path, we make our way through overgrown grass and scattered driftwood. Amidst the stark juxtaposition of crashing waves and soft drizzling rain, a round and glistening mass of light emerges from the water,…
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Aquarium-Keeping: Diving Into the Science and Art
Aquariums are windows into a whole new world—one full of water and opportunity. Some people like to build fortresses and cities in the popular videogame Minecraft, while others like to build real-life worlds. No matter how daunting aquarium building may seem, it’s a hobby with a niche for everyone. With just a basic understanding of biology and a splash of creativity, you too can delve into the world of aquarium-keeping. At its core, being an aquarist means understanding the nitrogen cycle and basic fish behavior. However, you may be wondering, what, in fact, is the nitrogen cycle? Cycle of Life Well, the nitrogen cycle is just a fancy way of…
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5 Productive Activities For Aspiring Marine Biologists This Summer
Summer is a time to kick back and relax, relish the good weather, and get caught up on those nitpicking tasks you’ve pushed off all year long. However, it’s also an opportune time to get ahead as a student. Whether that be taking summer classes or starting a summer internship, you now have some time to focus on some career-making moves. To excel in your career while also enhancing your marine biology knowledge and summer experience, consider these 5 summer activities. 1. Catch Up On the Documentaries You’ve Been Meaning to Watch No matter where you turn, it seems like everyone is talking about that one documentary with the octopus.…
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Overfishing: Facts You Ought to Know and How to Help
Amidst the environmental challenges in our ocean today, overfishing poses a major problem to the integrity of our ecosystems and economies. When fish stocks decline, we all suffer. For people across the globe, fishing is not only essential for food, but it is also essential for income. When fisheries are in peril, the livelihoods of entire communities and the fishermen providing for these communities are at risk. Therefore, it is imperative to understand the consequences of overfishing and advocate for sustainable practices. To learn more about the causes of overfishing and solutions for ending overfishing, read this beginner’s guide. Overfishing Causes According to the World Wildlife Fund, overfishing occurs when…
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Coral Bleaching: The Basics You Need to Know
Returning to your favorite snorkel spot, you stumble upon decaying white coral—a devastating result of coral bleaching. What used to be a radiant reef full of colorful coral and fish is now washed out, depleted, and lonely. No fish in sight anymore. But, what exactly is coral bleaching? And, what causes it? Most importantly, how can we prevent this from happening? For many, corals are one of the most awe-inspiring and majestic aspects of the ocean. When I was younger, snorkeling along the coral reefs in Hawai’i greatly impacted my decision to be a marine biologist. Full of life, coral reefs teem with biodiversity, beauty, and fascinating discoveries. To learn…
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A Beginner’s Guide to the Plastic Pollution Plaguing Our Oceans
Across all corners of the world, plastic pollution plagues streams, rivers, and oceans. In many ways, it’s simply because everything’s connected. For instance, one piece of trash, no matter the size, can embark on a road trip from one side of the Earth to the other using waterways. Strolling along the beach, you may find a brightly-colored shell—only to realize that it’s, in fact, a long-lost plastic bottle cap. Here lies a mere symptom of the ocean plastic crisis; this is only the surface of a much bigger problem. To truly grapple with ocean plastic pollution, you’ll have to dive deeper, maybe even to the abyssal depths of the ocean.…
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Easy Marine Biology Experiments and At-Home Activities For Every Budget
With at-home marine biology experiments, anyone can be a scientist, no matter the budget or expertise. For instance, many picture a scientist wearing a lab coat and goggles, but anyone—even someone lounging on a couch in pajamas—can engage in science. All you need is curiosity, questions, and a desire to learn. Are you an aspiring marine biologist? Trying to save money while also investing in education? Maybe you’re a parent trying to get your child more involved in science? Dive into marine biology with these experiments and activities all while sticking to your budget. If you’d like to learn about majoring in marine biology, check out this article. Disclaimer: For…
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The Ultimate Guide To Learning Marine Biology From Home For FREE
Learning marine biology from home can be surprisingly easy with all the free resources online today. Whether you’re a student, a researcher, or just an ocean enthusiast, there a variety of lectures, podcasts, readings, and videos to guide you in your learning. Covid-19 has transformed the way people learn. Because of these vast changes in education, it’s imperative to explore online tools. Between Covid-19 Netflix binges and online toilet paper shopping, brush up on your marine biology with this ultimate at-home marine biology guide. Check out the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s ‘Learning at Home’ To help people engage with marine biology, the Monterey Bay Aquarium offers free online classes and activities.…
