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FEATURE ARTICLE: INTERVIEW WITH DR. LORI MARINO
Written by Hannah Peterson
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On February 9th, we had the wonderful opportunity to interview Dr. Lori Marino. Dr. Marino is a neuroscientist who has specialized in animal intelligence and behavior, including that of whales and dolphins. She has also focused on marine mammal captivity issues and has authored a number of works in addition to appearing in films and TV programs.
Much of our conversation with Dr. Marino had to do with a whale sanctuary in Nova Scotia that she is helping develop, as we thought this interview would be fitting with World Whale Day that occurred on February 20th. View the interview linked below and check out The Whale Sanctuary Project to learn more about this impressive project that will help provide a safe home for whales that are unable to live in the wild.
We greatly appreciated Dr. Marino's willingness to do this interview and learned a lot about the issues facing whales!
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Click to watch the interview!
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SPOTLIGHT HABITAT: THE MIDNIGHT (BATHYPELAGIC) ZONE
Written by Hannah Peterson
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The Midnight Zone, also known as the Bathypelagic Zone, occupies the space from about 3,280 feet deep to about 13,135 feet deep. There is no sunlight, and any light produced comes from bioluminescent fish. No photosynthesis can occur, so no plants will be found. This zone also has very high water pressure. The Midnight Zone is home to sperm whales that travel down to feed as well as algae, tripod fish, mussels, vampire squid, and anglerfish. The fish of the Midnight Zone are unique and highly adapted, as well as being rare in research and museum collections. These fish need to be able to thrive in darkness, high pressure, distance from the surface, and cold temperatures. One adaptation some fish have is bioluminescent “lures” that they use to attract prey rather than having to swim and find it. These fish also tend to be darker in color to not attract predators to themselves. Additionally, the silence of the Midnight Zone gives fish the ability to listen and detect both prey and predators. While the Midnight Zone is a challenge to study due to the depths and harsh conditions, researchers aim to expand on their knowledge of this intriguing ocean zone.
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SPOTLIGHT SPECIES: VAMPIRE SQUID
Written by Kiyas Kousoulas
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Despite its threatening appearance and sinister name, the Vampire Squid is quite a peaceful creature. Dwelling at about 2,000 to 3,000 feet below the surface, the Vampire Squid lives in the heart of the Midnight Zone. Here it gently floats along, waiting to eat small particles and organisms that cross its path. The Vampire Squid has a soft and bendy body that is about the size of a football. Its body, webbed arms, and tentacles are a blood red color, which assists in scaring off predators. When its color isn’t threatening enough, Vampire Squids are capable of releasing a glowing mucus from tips of their arms to confuse predators. This special glowing mucus is a form of bioluminescence and is also used as a way to attract potential mates in the darkness of the Midnight Zone. Due to the difficulty of exploring this lightless habitat, not much is known about Vampire Squid and its behaviors. As our ability to explore continues to grow, we will hopefully be able to unravel more mysteries about the Vampire Squid and the other creatures that inhabit such an interesting and spooky place.
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Illustration by Eve Feldman
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International Mother Language Day
February 21st was International Mother Language Day. While this is often thought of in terms of humans and their native languages as well as the diversity in how people speak and communicate, we can also consider this day in terms of the creatures of the sea and how they communicate. For example, there are the songs of humpback whales and the clicks of dolphins. It is interesting to consider the verbal communications of the many interesting ocean species and how their voices travel through the water. While we should always appreciate the many languages of humans, we should also appreciate those of all the other creatures of the world.
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International Day of Action for Rivers
On March 14th, we celebrate the rivers across the globe. One this day, diverse communities join to spread the message that rivers matter. Check out the International Rivers website to learn more!
Global Recycling Day
March 18th is Global Recycling Day where we can recognize the importance of recycling and waste management for a sustainable future. Learn more and nominate your recycling hero at the event's website.
World Water Day
On March 22nd, we celebrate World Water Day by considering the impacts of water on our everyday lives. The theme for 2021 is "Groundwater - Making the Invisible Visible." Groundwater serves many important roles, despite the fact that we don't see or think about it on a regular basis. What will you do this year to take action for world water? Check out the World Water Day website to join into this year's conversation.
International Seal Day
Celebrate the seals on March 22nd! Species including the Bearded Seal, Guadalupe Fur Seal, Hawaiian Monk Seal, and Ringed Seal are endangered and in need of protection. Take some time to consider how you can help the seals on International Seal Day. Learn more here!
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OPPORTUNITIES AT AEON FOR OCEAN
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Are you interested in joining our team and helping to contribute to ocean conservation? We are currently looking to fill the following positions:
- Comic Illustrator
- Social Media Associate
- Graphic Designer
- Publishing Associate
- Director of Technology
- Director of Human Resources
- Director of Operations
More information can be found on our Volunteer Opportunities page.
Interested applicants can apply directly on our website using the link above.
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KRILL2WHALE PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT
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What is Krill2Whale?
Krill2Whale (K2W) is a program focused on educating kids about marine life and oceans so they can then share that information with other children in both casual and formal presentation settings. The goal is to spread awareness on the importance of the marine ecosystem and to increase involvement in activities to save our oceans.
How does K2W benefit kids?
Not only will new K2W Ambassadors join a group of inspiring kids, make new friends, and learn about marine life, but they will also learn valuable life skills like public speaking, leadership, and planning. The K2W Ambassadors will be given the opportunity to present a 30-45 minute interactive presentation at schools and libraries and help organize events for their communities.
How can my child join?
Head to aeonforocean.org/krill2whale for more information. If you'd like to join, click “Join me” in the “Become a K2W Ambassador” section and complete the form. If you have further questions about the program, please send an email to info@aeonforocean.org.
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