Issue 55 - December 2019
Microplastics on the menu of manta rays and whale sharks
By Elitza Germanov, Marine Megafauna Foundation
Manta plankton trawling microplastics Indonesia – Elitza Germanov, Marine Megafauna Foundation
Plastics pollute Indonesian feeding grounds of plankton-feeding ocean giants
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.
Microplastics in manta poo (c) Elitza Germanov et al 2019
Marine biologists from the Marine Megafauna Foundation, Murdoch University (Australia) Udayana University (Indonesia), estimated the amount of plastic particles present in the waters off Nusa Penida (Bali), Komodo National Park and East Java in Indonesia and, based on that, calculated how many pieces reef manta rays and whale sharks might be ingesting. These shark species sieve nutrient-rich water through their gills as they swim.
As manta rays and whale sharks spend a lot of time feeding in inshore surface waters where trash commonly aggregates, the researchers used a plankton net to trawl for plastics in the top 50 cm of the water column. They also counted any debris visible at the surface from the boat.
Lead author Elitza Germanov, a researcher at the Marine Megafauna Foundation and PhD candidate at Murdoch University, said:
“With time, plastics break down into smaller pieces called microplastics that large marine filter feeders might accidentally scoop up because they float among their prey.”
Manta with plastic in Indonesia – Elitza Germanov, Marine Megafauna Foundation
“Manta rays and whale sharks can ingest microplastics directly from polluted water or indirectly through the contaminated plankton they feed on,” she adds.
The collaborative study, which is published today in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science, found that reef manta rays may ingest up to 63 pieces of plastic per hour of feeding in Nusa Penida and Komodo National Park. Whale sharks, which seasonally aggregate in Java, could be ingesting up to 137 pieces per hour.
Thin and bendable films from single-use bags and wrappers as well as hard fragments were the most prevalent plastics (over 50% combined). Of all plastic recorded, around 80% were small pieces of less than 5mm, so-called microplastics.
Sampling Indonesia – Marine Megafauna Foundation
Manta ray poo and vomit also tested positive for plastics, which means that plastics are easily ingested when filter feeding and likely expose the animals to toxic chemicals and pollutants found in plastics while in their digestive system. These toxic substances can accumulate over decades and alter the hormones that regulate an animal’s metabolism, growth and development, and reproductive functions. Larger plastic particles can block nutrient absorption and cause damage to the digestive tract of animals.
Neil Loneragan, Professor of Marine Ecology and Conservation at Murdoch University said: “It is difficult to assess how much plastic manta rays and whale sharks actually ingest because conventional methods used to study animal diets, such as stomach analysis, are unsuitable for threatened species like these.”
Manta rays and whale sharks are globally threatened species facing extreme pressures from overfishing. They are often caught incidentally in nets or become entangled in fishing lines.
Indonesia is currently ranked as the second worst plastic polluter in the world and many neighbouring countries within the Coral Triangle are among the top 10. This study found that plastic abundance was up to 44 times higher during the rainy season, with the largest seasonal effect observed in Nusa Penida.
Left: Microplastics in manta poo
Right: counting microplastics
(c) Elitza Germanov et al 2019
Dr. I. Gede Hedrawan, an Indonesian plastics researcher from Bali’s Udayana University and an author on this study, said: “The seasonal variability in plastic pollution shows what a difference it would make to clean up river beds before the rainy season begins.” Local authorities could also prohibit any waste disposal in areas around water sources.
“We welcome Bali’s recent ban on single-use plastic bags, straws and take away containers, although the law is yet to reach its full effect and spread to smaller businesses,” he says.
Photo identification of manta in Indonesia – Elitza Germanov, Marine Megafauna Foundation
It is vital to understand the effects of microplastic pollution on ocean giants since nearly half of the mobulid rays, two thirds of filter-feeding sharks and over one quarter of baleen whales are listed by the IUCN as globally threatened species and are prioritized for conservation. Previous studies found that baleen whales may swallow microplastic particles in the thousands every day.
“We now know that, through exposure to toxic substances, plastic contamination has the potential to further reduce the population numbers of these threatened animals because they reproduce slowly and have few offspring throughout their lives,” Germanov concluded.
As plastic production is projected to increase globally, future research should focus on coastal regions where pollution overlaps with the critical feeding and breeding grounds of these ocean giants. Many areas such as the Nusa Penida Marine Protected Area and Komodo National Park are biodiversity hotspots with significant marine tourism.
The field research was supported by the Ocean Park Conservation Foundation, PADI Foundation, Foundation FortUna, Mantahari Oceancare, Arenui Boutique Liveaboard, Current Junkies Liveaboard, Happy Days yacht, Scuba Junkie Komodo, and Wunderpus Liveaboard, and was carried out under a RisTek-Dikti (Indonesian Ministry of Research) permit.
The study by Elitza Germanov et al., titled ‘Microplastics on the menu: Plastics pollute Indonesian manta ray and whale shark feeding grounds’ is published in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science on 19 November 2019 and will be available here: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2019.00679/full
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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?
By Adam Śmigielski
By Tanner Larson
By Alex Meier
By Said Karlsson
By Maria Lupan
By Justas Samalius
By Chris Slupski
By Reiseuhu
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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