Hokkaido University’s Post

Diving Bell Spider: Anatomy, Habitat, Bite And Other Facts #science #Animals #Zoology #Insect #Spider #Spiderbite #Divingbellspider #Spiders #science #scicomm #stemeducation #sciencecommunication

I'm happy to have been featured in Emirates Diving Association (EDA)’s June 2024 magazine issue on my work with dolphin skulls at Zayed University, the UAE Dolphin Project. Our article discusses the scientific value of analyzing dead animal bodies, particularly those of wild species. We examine specifically the bottlenose dolphins inhabiting the UAE Gulf coastal waters as recently, morphometric analyses of bottlenose dolphin skulls collected in the northern Indian Ocean detected the presence of two distinct lineages. However, no specimens from the Arabian Gulf were included in these studies. So, which type of bottlenose dolphin is in the Arabian Gulf? Is it different from those inhabiting the neighbouring waters of the Gulf of Oman? And which lineage would it be? Or will it be a completely different one? On this quest, I worked diligently on analyzing a small collection of bottlenose dolphins’ skulls recovered from standings that occurred along the UAE coastline in the past. Moreover, as part of the project, I also visited the Oman Natural History Museum (ONHM) – Ministry of Heritage and Tourism - Sultanate of Oman. Discover all about the research, our work, and our trip to Oman in the article below! Link to full magazine: https://bit.ly/458nngZ Many thanks to Emirates Diving Association (EDA), Ally Landes, Ada Natoli, Caitlin McFarlane, and Bryana Cope. #MarineConservation #Biodiversity #DolphinResearch #Taxonomy #SkullMorphology

Costal Manta Rays (aka "Reef Mantas") are one of two manta species that you can see while diving in Hawaii. Coastal Mantas (Mobula alfredi) are found in nearshore waters, usually where there are concentrations of plankton. And, unlike their pelagic cousins, Coastal Mantas appear to have a home range and don't migrate. In other words, each island (e.g., Maui, Oahu, the Big Island) has its own population with no apparent interaction between groups - at least according to tracking data. Individual mantas can be identified and tracked by unique pigment spots, which are especially prominent over the ventral abdomen.

Fear is an important emotion that reminds us to be alert in the face of danger. However, it can also be counterproductive. Biologist and scuba instructor Dr. Klaus Stiefel discusses the latest neurological research on fear and what it means for divers! - #DAN #alertdiver #divingsafety

Here are some cool facts about Loons: Unique Vocalizations: Loons are known for their haunting calls, which can carry for miles across lakes. Each species has distinct vocalizations used for communication, territory defense, and attracting mates. Striking Red Eyes: One of the most distinctive features of loons is their bright red eyes, which stand out against their black and white plumage. This eye color is not only beautiful but also enhances their ability to see underwater, helping them spot prey while diving. Diving Champions: Loons are excellent divers, capable of plunging up to 200 feet underwater to catch fish and invertebrates. They can hold their breath for up to five minutes while diving. Specialized Feet: Their feet are placed far back on their bodies, which aids in swimming but makes them awkward on land. Loons are almost entirely aquatic and only come ashore for nesting. Beautiful Plumage: During the breeding season, common loons develop striking black and white plumage, making them one of the most visually appealing birds. In winter, they transition to a more subdued grayish color. Strong Parental Care: Both male and female loons share responsibilities in raising their young. The chicks ride on their parents' backs for warmth and protection shortly after hatching. Territorial Birds: Loons are highly territorial, especially during the breeding season. They will aggressively defend their nesting areas from other loons and intruding species. Migratory Patterns: Loons migrate between breeding grounds in northern lakes and wintering areas in coastal waters, often traveling thousands of miles. They can be seen along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts during migration. Longevity: Loons can live for over 20 years in the wild, with some individuals recorded to be even older. They tend to return to the same breeding territory year after year. These fascinating birds play an important role in their ecosystems and are beloved symbols of the northern lakes in North America!

𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗙𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝘅𝘆𝗴𝗲𝗻 𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀, Take a deep breath! That’s right, this week we’re making a dive into InDEPTH’s archive of oxygen stories. We begin with researcher turned tech diver Xavier Vrijdag and his latest work demonstrating that oxygen is likely NOT narcotic in the relevant diving ranges. Stick to nitrogen if you need a buzz. From there, we travel back to the early days of tech diving, to explore our understanding of oxygen limits at the time, with a 1993 article published in aquaCORPS Journal by former and now deceased DAN research director Dr. Richard Vann. We follow it with a two-part oxygen research summary by science writer turned tekkie Reilly Fogarty. Next we examine the status of solid state oxygen sensors, the supposed “holy grail” of oxygen sensing in a report by Ashley Stewart. And then discuss whether oxygen rebreathers, the tool of choice for combat divers, has a place in tech and scientific diving in a story by undersea inventor & entrepreneur Mike Lombardi. His answer is YES! In SOUNDINGS we listen to The Scuba GOAT Podcast where Dr. Simon Mitchell discusses decompression illness (DCI) and hyperbaric treatment—yes, it’s all about the O2! Not surprising, we GO-FOR-THE-GEEK in a pair of articles that explore two new models from Israeli researcher Dr. Ran Arieli and the US Navy’s Dr. Barbara Shykoff that track pulmonary oxygen toxicity, and are candidates to replace the outdated, legacy REPEX method (OTUs) developed by Dr. RW Bill Hamilton in the late 1980s. RIP Dr. Bill. The models are used to actually calculate diver exposures on two BIG dives! Finally, we offer up our recent story on Dr. Rachel Lance’s investigations into the hyperbaric docs from WWII, who’s research served to operationalize early rebreather diving, and consequently helped win the war!  Those are our stories for the week, guaranteed to oxygenate your brain tissues. We hope that you enjoy the exposure. Mind those PO2s! Subscribe to our newsletter: indepthmag.com/subscribe #technicaldiving #CCRdiving #cavediving #wreckdiving #oxygen #diversafety #deco #science #diver #InDEPTH #GetDeeperIntoDiving

Lembeh Strait, North Sulawesi, Indonesia: A Macro Photographer's Paradise Nestled between North Sulawesi and Lembeh Island in Indonesia, the Lembeh Strait is renowned for its unique ecosystem and abundant marine life. Often hailed as a "macro photographer's paradise," it attracts countless divers and underwater photographers each year. What makes Lembeh Strait so special? Its volcanic mud seabed provides a unique habitat for a plethora of unusual creatures. Rich in nutrients from ocean currents, the strait teems with diverse marine life. While visibility might be lower compared to other dive sites, it actually enhances the visibility of tiny organisms. Lembeh Strait is famous for its incredible biodiversity, especially its tiny inhabitants. Divers can encounter a vast array of seahorses in various colors and shapes, making it one of the world's top seahorse diversity hotspots. Colorful nudibranchs, strange frogfish, and a multitude of shrimp species, including cleaner and symbiotic shrimp, are just a few of the many fascinating creatures found here. Diving in Lembeh Strait offers a unique experience. Divers can slowly explore the seabed, searching for tiny creatures and capturing stunning macro photographs. With numerous dive resorts offering a variety of courses and services, Lembeh Strait caters to both novice and experienced divers. Key points to remember when diving in Lembeh Strait: • Low visibility: Adapt to the lower visibility and maintain a safe distance from your dive buddy. • Marine conservation: Avoid touching marine life and damaging coral reefs. • Experienced dive guide: A knowledgeable guide can help you locate rare and interesting creatures. Best time to dive: While diving is possible year-round, the dry season from April to October offers the best conditions with clearer water. • #diving #scuba #scubadiving #divtop #sea #underwater #spearfishing #fishing #ocean #watersports #freediving #oceanic #divingbuoy #divingfloat #divingsurfacemarkerbuoy #divingsausage #scubapro #oceanic #mares #DEMAshow #divingaccessory #divingfin #divingmask #watersports #kayak

Diving for a greater cause! 💙 - Marine species identification, such as nudibranchs, is crucial for marine research as it helps scientists understand biodiversity, ecosystem health, and potential impacts of climate change. - At OceanVibration, we not only offer scuba diving experiences but also actively engage in citizen science initiatives. By educating our divers on identifying and documenting marine species, like nudibranchs, we contribute valuable data to ongoing research projects. - This collaboration between divers and scientists allows us to better protect and conserve marine environments. - Join us at OceanVibration for a unique diving experience that not only explores the wonders of the underwater world but also supports important marine conservation efforts. - #mauritius #mauritiusdiving #mauritiusunderwater #mauritiusexplored #scuba #diving #ocean #oceanlife #marinelife #uwphoto #uwphotography #uwvideo #macrovideo

In one of my previous posts, I mentioned the Prickly Shark. To the best of my knowledge, since the first scuba dives at Cocos Island, perhaps led by Jacques Cousteau in 1970, several resident and pelagic shark species have been documented at Cocos Island. The main list includes the following species: • Scalloped Hammerhead Shark • Whitetip Reef Shark • Silky Shark • Galapagos Shark • Blacktip Shark (Reef and Oceanic) • Tiger Shark • Silvertip Shark • Whale Shark There may have been rare sightings of additional shark species over the years. In 2004, we began exploring the depths of the island beyond the reach of conventional scuba diving. Using the DeepSee submersible, operated by @underseahunter we were able to reach depths of up to 500 meters (approximately 1,500 feet) for the first time. During one of those initial exploratory dives, I encountered the Prickly Shark. As I ascended from a depth of 1,000 feet, following the ocean floor’s contour, I noticed an unusual shape and movement at the edge of my underwater lights. Approaching it with the submersible, I realized I was observing something I had never seen before—the holy grail of shark diving—a previously undocumented deep-water shark! I was able to capture footage using the submersible’s external video camera. Once back at the surface, we immediately reviewed the footage and confirmed that we had documented a new shark species for the first time at Cocos Island. In 2004, we did not have internet access onboard, so we had to wait until we returned to shore to share the footage with scientists who could identify the species. To fully confirm a species, a DNA sample is required. Unfortunately, we did not have the capability to collect one at the time, so the identification was made visually. The Prickly Shark (Echinorhinus cookei) is a known species, found widely throughout the Pacific Ocean. If a DNA sample is ever collected, we might discover that Cocos Island is home to a unique species—which would then give me the privilege of naming it! Image courtesy of Undersea Hunter Group

Lembeh Strait, North Sulawesi, Indonesia: A Macro Photographer's Paradise Nestled between North Sulawesi and Lembeh Island in Indonesia, the Lembeh Strait is renowned for its unique ecosystem and abundant marine life. Often hailed as a "macro photographer's paradise," it attracts countless divers and underwater photographers each year. What makes Lembeh Strait so special? Its volcanic mud seabed provides a unique habitat for a plethora of unusual creatures. Rich in nutrients from ocean currents, the strait teems with diverse marine life. While visibility might be lower compared to other dive sites, it actually enhances the visibility of tiny organisms. Lembeh Strait is famous for its incredible biodiversity, especially its tiny inhabitants. Divers can encounter a vast array of seahorses in various colors and shapes, making it one of the world's top seahorse diversity hotspots. Colorful nudibranchs, strange frogfish, and a multitude of shrimp species, including cleaner and symbiotic shrimp, are just a few of the many fascinating creatures found here. Diving in Lembeh Strait offers a unique experience. Divers can slowly explore the seabed, searching for tiny creatures and capturing stunning macro photographs. With numerous dive resorts offering a variety of courses and services, Lembeh Strait caters to both novice and experienced divers. Key points to remember when diving in Lembeh Strait: • Low visibility: Adapt to the lower visibility and maintain a safe distance from your dive buddy. • Marine conservation: Avoid touching marine life and damaging coral reefs. • Experienced dive guide: A knowledgeable guide can help you locate rare and interesting creatures. Best time to dive: While diving is possible year-round, the dry season from April to October offers the best conditions with clearer water. #diving #scuba #scubadiving #divtop #sea #underwater #spearfishing #fishing #ocean #watersports #freediving #oceanic #divingbuoy #divingfloat #divingsurfacemarkerbuoy #divingsausage #scubapro #oceanic #mares #DEMAshow #divingaccessory #divingfin #divingmask #watersports #kayak