Issue 55 - December 2019
Floating plastics pervade Pacific fish populations, larval fish are eating our trash
By Jennifer Lynch
Numerous larval fish species. Credit: Jonathan Whitney, NOAA Fisheries.
Researchers from Hawai‘i Pacific University, NOAA, and other agencies release study that includes evidence ‘fish are dominated by plastics’
A new study on the Pacific Ocean’s floating trash indicates not only a significant accumulation of microplastics in the Hawaiian Islands, but that larval fish are eating the debris.
The research, conducted in partnership with Hawaiʻi Pacific University’s Center for Marine Debris Research (CMDR), centered on waters off the Kona coastline of Hawaiʻi Island. The area is found to accumulate microplastic pollution at a rate higher than the North Pacific Garbage Patch itself, and the larval fish living in this nursery habitat are eating the trash that surrounds them.
Larval flying fish (top) and triggerfish (bottom) with ingested plastics zoomed in. Dime shown for scale. Credit: Jonathan Whitney, NOAA Fisheries.
The findings are published in the journal, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) sampled surface waters near West Hawaiʻi using plankton tows with the intention of learning about the larval fish community in that nursery habitat. It was no surprise that the researchers found young fish of many different types, including species that are gathered for commercial or recreational fisheries and that also play vital roles in ecosystems, such as Hawaiian coral reefs.
“But we were shocked to find that so many of our samples were dominated by plastics,” said Jonathan Whitney, a marine ecologist for NOAA and co-lead of the study. Within the slicks—small-scale convergence zones that look like ribbons of smooth water—plastic particles outnumbered larval fish seven to one. The concentration of plastic per square kilometer in the surface water slicks off of West Hawai‘i was eight times greater than in the North Pacific Garbage Patch.
A scribbled filefish, about 50 days old and two inches long, surrounded by plastics. Sample taken in a surface slick in the coastal waters of Hawaii Island. Credit: Photograph courtesy of David Liittschwager
“The North Pacific Garbage Patch is known as one of the most plastic-polluted marine waters on earth. It is deeply concerning that concentrations in these hotspots in Hawai‘i exceed those in the Garbage Patch,” said Jennifer Lynch, research biologist with the National Institute of Standards and Technology and co-director of the HPU CMDR.
Numerous larval billfish sampled in surface slicks off Hawaii Island were found to have ingested plastics. Credit: Jonathan Whitney, NOAA Fisheries.
HPU’s CMDR determined the chemical composition of the plastic found in the tows, outside of the fish, to be mostly polyethylene and polypropylene. Next, the researchers dissected the digestive tracts of the tiny fish under a microscope.
“We found tiny plastic pieces in the stomachs of commercially targeted pelagic species, including swordfish and mahi-mahi, as well as in coral reef species like triggerfish,” said Whitney. Most of the particles were microfibers.
Lynch identified the chemical composition of the fibers to prove that they were man-made. Two different types of chemical spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared and Raman, revealed that some were polyester, nylon, or rayon, and most were dyed cellulose, which could come from cotton fabric.
“The fact that larval fish are surrounded by and ingesting non-nutritious toxin-laden plastics, at their most vulnerable life-history stage, is cause for alarm,” explained Jamison Gove, a research oceanographer for NOAA and co-lead of the study.
A variety of shapes, sizes, and colors of plastics sampled in a surface slick, collected in just one 500 m surface plankton tow. Credit: Photograph courtesy of David Liittschwager
“The multiple, disturbing discoveries in this study spotlight the negative impact humans are having on our planet. We can make changes to reduce our impact, and these changes are needed now,” said Lynch.
The CMDR’s goal is to help eliminate plastic waste from the ocean, and the team is deeply committed to diving into this issue, right here in Hawaiʻi. The Center continues to strive to move conversations forward about creating a trash-free ocean environment while investigating the impacts of marine debris and distributing the knowledge of clean ocean awareness initiatives and stewardship.
The publication is titled “Prey-size plastics are invading larval fish nurseries” and is published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
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Conservation Photography
Madeira, Portugal, a photo series.
A stunning collection of photos from Madeira, Portugal that is going to make you want to book a trip for the New Year. The food and culture are just the tip of the iceberg. From fog-drenched mountain forests to sprawling coastline formations these are sights to behold from land and sea.
Who are you going to bring on your holiday in Portugal?
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Issue 55 - December 2019
SEVENSEAS Travel Magazine – December 2019 – Issue 55
Taking the Plunge Against Plastic
Do you like being out of your comfort zone? Last March, I went on the most extraordinary trip and I was totally out of my comfort zone. I scuba dived in the most remote area of our planet to create awareness on plastic pollution. Read more…
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How An Exotic Invasion In The Everglades Has Its Fans Worried
Burmese pythons and their battles with alligators get the headlines, but those large reptiles that came from Southeast Asia as part of the exotic-pet trade aren’t the only invasive species wreaking havoc on the Florida Everglades. Read more…
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Madeira has a Carnaval you will not want to miss
Not that anyone needs a reason to go to Portugal in February anymore – but one good reason is Carnaval, a four-day celebration beginning February 19, 2020. Parades and pageants have been part of Carnaval celebrations throughout Portugal for centuries. But in Funchal, the warm and sunny capital of Madeira, Carnaval festivities are a big deal. Read more…
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Keep Winter Cold with Chesapeake Climate Action Network
A report released last month by the World Meteorological Organization revealed that greenhouse gases have risen to an all-time high of 407.8 parts per million. That means that for every one million molecules of gas in the atmosphere, nearly 408 were carbon dioxide. Read more…
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White sharks are forming communities to feed on baby seals
White sharks are forming communities to feed on baby seals in the Great Australian Bight, which is at odds to their reputation of being solitary creatures. Read more…
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Taiwan by Bike: a Nine Day Journey Across the Island
On this new cycling tour of Taiwan, guests will bike the length of the country, from the northern capital, Taipei, to the southern tip. Read more…
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eyecandyLab and Adidas Launch Retail AR Experience to Reveal the Environmental Impact of Plastic Usage
eyecandylab and Adidas are proud to announce their pilot project has launched at the Adidas flagship store at Champs Elysees in Paris. Read more…
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An Intro to Madeira, Portugal’s Other Island Chain
So much has been written about the Azores. But then, there is Madeira a wonderful destination that has a warm year-round climate, dramatic volcanic landscapes, world-class wines, incredible hiking, a wide mix of lodging and so much more. Read more…
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Taking The Stress Out of Responsible Travel
As we’re all getting used to leading more eco-friendly lives and getting to grips with the do’s and don’ts of living responsibly, there is one big part of our lives that we’re all struggling to make more eco-friendly: travel. Read more…
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The ISS hosted 2019 Founders to honour SeaKeeper of the Year
The International SeaKeepers Society hosted its 2019 Founders Event, a maritime masquerade to honor Amos Nachoum as the 2019 SeaKeeper of the Year Award Recipient, 2019 NextGen Awardee, Katherine Zacarian, and the 2018-19 DISCOVERY Yacht Fleet. Read more…
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Interested in advertising, contributing an article, or becoming a donor?
55 Issues, readership in 174 countries, 22,000 subscribers, over 30,000 monthly visitors…and growing. Read more…
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Virtual Reality Turns 360-Year-Old Shipwreck into Sunken Treasure
Flinders University PhD candidate John McCarthy has constructed a virtual reality dive of the Dutch trading vessel Melckmeyt, which sunk off an Icelandic atoll on October 16, 1659. The well-preserved ship was discovered near Flatey Island in 1992 and in 2016 University of Iceland maritime archaeologist Kevin Martin conducted a highly detailed 3D survey of the wreck. Read more…
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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: Freitag Bags
If you are in search of a new bag this holiday season you HAVE to check out Freitag. Totally unique, durable, and upcycled. They make a perfect gift and we have been using them at SEVENSEAS Media for years. See more…
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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: Field Notes National Parks Edition
Great idea for a holiday gift, and one where 5% gets donated back! Field Notes’ National Parks edition, the fourth set of which was just released. See more…
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Madeira, Portugal, a photo series
From fog-drenched mountain forests to sprawling coastline formations these are sights to behold from land and sea. See more…
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Floating plastics pervade Pacific fish populations, larval fish are eating our trash
A new study on the Pacific Ocean’s floating trash indicates not only a significant accumulation of microplastics in the Hawaiian Islands, but that larval fish are eating the debris. Read more…
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Microplastics on the menu of manta rays and whale sharks
Plastic pollution has a tremendous impact on marine life – and reef manta rays and whale sharks are not spared from it. These large filter-feeders swallow hundreds to thousands of cubic meters of plankton-filled water every day, and with it, tiny plastic pieces from broken down carrier bags and single-use packaging, a new study has found. Read more…
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Court Rules in Key Case to Protect One of Earth’s Rarest Whales
A federal court has ruled that federal fisheries managers failed to protect critically endangered North Atlantic right whales when opening nearly 3,000 square miles of previously protected New England marine waters to dangerous fishing gear. Read more…
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Boxer Crabs Use Sea Anemones Like Pom-Poms – Jack’s December Photograph
Boxer crabs feed sea anemones in exchange for defense from danger — serving as a prominent example of symbiosis in the animal kingdom. Lybia tessellata is a tiny crustacean native to the tropical Indo-Pacific Ocean. These crabs are usually patterned with pink, brown, or yellow and reach about an inch in width. Read more…
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The World Beneath
“My work has taken me all over the globe and introduced me to coral reefs in twenty-three countries,” writes Dr. Richard Smith. “I have seen fish that wouldn’t even stretch across a dime and others that are longer than two city buses”. Read more…
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SEVENSEAS FEATURED TRAVEL
Below are a few of our favorite tour centers and operators. Be sure to mention SEVENSEAS Media for special rates and discounts when making your inquiry.
Susan Bruce Travel
We’ve been traveling, advising clients, and planning trips across the globe for over 30 years. We help you explore amazing places and people — from mountain sanctuaries in Bhutan to the jungles of Peru. Learn more…
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Oceanic Society Expeditions.
A selection of expeditions and volunteer vacations for our travellers that will further the mission to conserve marine wildlife and habitats. More info.
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Alelí Tours Puerto Rico 
Alelí Tours is a small-scale ecotourism business located in La Parguera, southwest Puerto Rico. More info.
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Isla Mar Research Expeditions – Field Courses in Puerto Rico
A field course coordination company in Puerto Rico that specializes in organizing and hosting island ecology (marine/terrestrial) themed courses. More info.
Marine Megafauna Foundation
Our mission is to save threatened marine life using pioneering research, education, and sustainable conservation solutions, working towards a world where marine life and humans thrive together. Read more… More info.
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Bangkok Photo Tours.
We visit traditional sights but focus on markets, street art, and local food. All camera forward and environmentally sensitive. More info.
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Pangaea Ocean Sailing Expedition
Panex is opening up sailing expeditions for guest crew. This is an unique opportunity to go sailing, cross an ocean, and be a part of something bigger. More info.
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SEE Turtles
…protect endangered turtles throughout Latin America and the world by supporting community-based conservation efforts through ecotourism, education, and Billion Baby Turtles. More info.
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Ever dream of swimming with humpback whales? Now you can.
If you are interested in swimming with or photographing humpback whales Karim guides… More info.
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Loggerhead Marinelife Center.
Imagine roaming some of the world’s most beautiful ecosystems. Gorgeous vistas, affordable travel and amazing memories; immersing yourself in the sounds of nature. More info.
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Pete Oxford Expeditions.
We offer unique, small group expeditions for travelers and photographers to remote and pristine destinations and cultures around the world. More info.
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Alnitak Conservation in Action on Volunteer Expeditions
Alnitak is a grassroots marine science organization dedicated to the conservation of biodiversity in our oceans. From May through to October, we run expeditions to survey the rich waters in the Balearic Sea, inviting any ocean enthusiasts to join us on board. Our expeditions take place in the stunning Cabrera National Park and the Menorca Biosphere Reserve. Read more…
Issue 55 - December 2019
Keep Winter Cold with Chesapeake Climate Action Network
By Kevin Majoros
A report released last month by the World Meteorological Organization revealed that greenhouse gases have risen to an all-time high of 407.8 parts per million. That means that for every one million molecules of gas in the atmosphere, nearly 408 were carbon dioxide.
Of the measured gases, carbon dioxide contributes the most to global warming and is absorbed by the oceans, lowering their pH and devastating marine life. The gas concentrations are driven by fossil fuel combustion, agriculture activities, and industrial sources. They are expected to continue to rise in the future.
The Chesapeake Climate Action Network has been fighting global warming in Maryland, Virginia and Washington D.C. since 2002 and has built a powerful and diverse network to inspire action regionally, nationally and in countries around the world.
Old Beach Farmers Market Chesapeake Climate Climate Change Climate Tesla
Starting a Conversation through Grassroots Efforts
Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN) organizes, educates and mobilizes communities and has led the charge to climate and clean energy victories in the Chesapeake region.
“The distance between what we (the population) know about climate change and what we do about climate change is huge,” says CCAN founder and director Mike Tidwell. “We try to contribute to, and if necessary, force a public debate on a variety of topics including global warming, clean energy, sea-level rise on coastal communities and environmental justice.”
Through their growing network of allies, they have helped pass strong renewable electricity laws in Maryland and D.C., a carbon cap in Virginia and greenhouse gas reduction legislation in Maryland.
Their grassroots resistance and litigation have also helped to keep at bay fracked-gas pipelines, a coal-fired power plant, and new oil train terminals. They have also worked with groups nationwide to push for a fair and effective carbon cap policy on Capitol Hill.
Taking on the Responsibility of Protecting the Planet
Mike Tidwell
Mike Tidwell grew up in Memphis and considers himself lucky to have had parents who shared their love of the outdoors with him. He had always wanted to be a journalist and was content with his career in that field.
In 1989 he read the book, The End of Nature by Bill McKibben, which would be the spark that would lead to his eventual life path.
“It rocked my world and completely changed the course of my life. I spent a decade in denial, not for a lack of understanding of the greenhouse effect, but that it wasn’t going to affect me or my family,” Tidwell says. “I was mad that no one was taking action, but I wasn’t taking action either. It took me a while to find the courage to step forward.”
While building his own self-awareness, Tidwell’s personal alarm was set off by the January 2001 United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change which painted a disturbing future for the planet.
“I could no longer look my son in the eye, and I needed to walk away from a career that I loved,” says Tidwell. “It’s one thing to take responsibility for yourself and your family, but protecting the planet is a completely different responsibility. There is a learning curve in persuading people to change their habits or change how they vote. It’s exhausting but incredibly rewarding.”
CCAN to host the 15th Annual “KeepWinterCold” Polar Bear Plunge
GoFundme Charity National Harbor Maryland Chesapeake Climate Polar Plunge
The plunge is a fundraiser for CCAN and an opportunity to connect to new people on the importance of raising awareness on global warming. They will splash into the cold waters of the Potomac River at National Harbor in Oxon Hill, MD on January 25, 2020.
The focal point of the community event is to continue the discussion on climate change and raise support for action to avert climate disruption, and damage to our ecosystems, marine life, and human communities.
“We take pride in being an organization that isn’t driven by philanthropic organizations and the event helps us to maintain the independence to be ourselves,” Tidwell says. “The Plunge inspires people and gives them a peak life experience. It is a perfect way for us to really talk about climate change.”
A Drowning Man Never Stops Kicking
Tidwell refers to himself as a climatarian. His diet involves choosing his food based on their carbon footprint. For him, that means no meat or fish. He is also a proponent for a carbon tax on industries that are damaging our ecosystems.
He points to the many advances we have already seen regarding changing our ways and worries whether we will get there fast enough to stop the climate crisis. One thing he maintains is hope.
“I am hopeful – you can’t do this work without hope. I can visualize a world where there is energy decarbonization, interlocking windmill farms, solar panels on buildings and plant-based agriculture. It’s a world where humanity has overcome its worst impulses and acted to fix the damage. It’s a vision that keeps me going and it is what I am fighting for. It is a great privilege to wake up every day and have the opportunity to work towards that goal.”
Follow Chesapeake Climate Action Network online.
Support their campaigns on Facebook.
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