Jellies Reveal Clever Mode of Transport, Even in Absence of Brains

Medicine & Technology Jan 24, 2015

Without fins or bones capable of paddling, in terms of appearances, jellyfish may seem like mere drifters of the sea. But even in spite of their major deficits, including the absence of a heart and brains, these invertebrates have an incredible talent for swimming. So much so that no other creature under the sea can quite compete in terms of efficiency and skills. Though their tactics have long been misunderstood, a new study adds to the working knowledge that these brainless creatures are far more clever than we give them credit for.

VIDEO—Jellyfish Reveal A Knack for Global Positioning & Swimming in New Study

Jan 24, 2015

While jellyfish may seem like an innocuous marine species, most commonly known for their ability to sting, a new study published in the journal Current Biology reveals that the little gelatinous creatures are actually quite efficient in traversing waves, and can also detect the direction of ocean currents to effectively swim against them. Like a character straight out of Oz, without a heart, bones and even a brain, these little creatures may seem like their helpless in the wild but they’re proving that they can swim against the currents life brings them.

The Secret Behind The Cone Snail's Lethal Venom―Insulin

Jan 20, 2015

Cone snails are one of the ocean's most lethal, efficient predators. Able to immobilize captured prey within a matter of seconds, its venom contains one unusually potent compound―hypoglycemic-inducing insulin.

Megalodon Sharks became extinct 2.6 million years ago

Oct 27, 2014

The blue whale currently holds the distinction of being the largest marine animal on earth. Its gargantuan size also makes it the biggest animal in the world. But did you know that whales pale in comparison to this marine predator that saw its existence more than 3 million years ago? In fact, whales are said to have been this predator's main dish--a logical conclusion given its hefty size, 7-inch teeth, and deadly, massive bite.

UN Messenger of Peace Donates Millions Towards Ocean Conservation—Leonardo DiCaprio

Oct 19, 2014

Well, it appears that even after a controversial display last month at the United Nation’s (UN) Climate Summit held in New York City, renowned actor and environmental activist Leonardo DiCaprio is using more than his words to cause a change: he’s putting his money where his mouth is.

New Research Started After Rare Beaked Whale Washed Ashore Near Sydney

Oct 16, 2014

When a whale washes ashore, researchers and government agencies are usually the first on scene to assess the causes of death. However, when a rare beaked whale washed ashore in Australia earlier this week, Tuesday Oct. 14, researchers were eager to get to the scene for an entirely different reason — the opportunity to learn something about a deep diving mammal we know so little about.