How Commercial Fishing Affects Sea Otters: Impacts on Mortality and Coastal Ecosystems

Commercial fishing harms sea otters by causing entanglement in gear, resulting in injury and starvation. Sea otters play a vital role in restoring kelp forests. Their growing populations can impact fisheries, shellfish harvest, abalone, and sea urchin levels. It is crucial to balance otter recovery with fishing practices for ecological and economic stability. Furthermore, commercial … Read more

Why Do My Fish Keep Resting on the Bottom? Common Causes and Expert Solutions

Fish may rest on the bottom for several reasons. Poor water quality, high ammonia levels, overcrowding, and stress can affect their behavior. Swim bladder disorder and parasites may also cause this issue. Test your water regularly. Ensure good tank conditions and perform regular water changes to keep your fish healthy. Additionally, illness can lead to … Read more

How Come Lionfish Spines Don’t Kill Barracudas? Predator-Prey Dynamics Explained

Barracudas avoid lionfish because of their spines, which contain venom and neurotoxic proteins. However, barracudas can eat lionfish when needed. Cooking lionfish removes the venom, making it safe to eat. Therefore, barracudas do not experience fatal harm from an encounter with lionfish. Barracudas are fast and agile hunters. They often approach lionfish from behind, where … Read more

Fishing Tournament Weights: How Accurate Are They and Their Impact on Bass Dispersal?

Fishing tournaments determine winners based on the total weight of fish caught. Tournament anglers use a livewell to transport fish to weigh-ins. Many tournaments promote fish survival with a release policy. Average fish weight can vary by event. Strict rules prevent cheating, ensuring fair competition and protecting bass populations. Inaccurate weight measurements can mislead biologists … Read more

Testing Ancient Lakes: How to Analyze Predatory Fish Using Evolutionary Methods

To test for predatory fish in ancient lakes, analyze geological layers for fish fossils. Look for predatory species like Diplomystus. Examine pelvic structures in the fossils, especially in sticklebacks. These findings offer insights into the lake’s ecological history and the evolution of fish. Evolutionary methods are essential in this analysis. They help scientists understand how … Read more