The Haunting Nature of Plastics

A lyrical meditation on our most insidious creation.

Jun 8, 2021 | 5,000 words, about 25 minutes

How a Frenzy for Echinoderms Exposed and Entrenched Inequities in a Fishing Community

In 2011, a covert trade in sea cucumbers exploded on the island nation of Palau, nearly decimating the animal population. Women are still paying the price 10 years later.

May 27, 2021 | 800 words, about 4 minutes

Hitchhiking with Bloodworms

Invasive species are sneaking around the world, nestled in the seaweed used to ship bait worms. An easy solution exists, but the industry is resisting change.

May 18, 2021 | 2,000 words, about 10 minutes

The Bright Side of the Green Crab

In Nova Scotia, a suite of innovative projects has creatively met this invasive species head on.

May 13, 2021 | 2,200 words, about 11 minutes

Making Amends with Makatea

On this French Polynesian island dramatically scarred from mining, locals grapple with whether a new mine will heal or harm the landscape.

May 4, 2021 | 3,100 words, about 15 minutes

Seeing Inside the Newly Discovered Emperor Dumbo Octopus

The discovery of the emperor Dumbo octopus stemmed from the use of nondestructive MRI and CT scans—techniques that could revolutionize taxonomy.

Apr 22, 2021 | 950 words, about 4 minutes

Found, Then Lost, Then Found Again: Scientists Have Rediscovered the Sand Octopus

How Brazilian fishers helped solve the riddle of a long “lost” species.

Apr 8, 2021 | 1,000 words, about 5 minutes

For California Crabbers, Sea Otters Are Not a Threat to Dungeness Catch

New research shows that the Dungeness crab harvest in California is not affected by the resurgence of sea otters.

Mar 31, 2021 | 600 words, about 3 minutes