Discovery of Largest Coral in the Pacific Ocean

The largest coral ever recorded has been discovered in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, spanning about 111 feet wide, 104 feet long, and 18 feet high. Estimated to be 300 to 500 years old, this mega coral provides essential habitat for various marine species but faces threats from overfishing and global warming.

Sunfish Sighting at Santa Cruz’s Cowell Beach

Surfers at Santa Cruz’s Cowell Beach encountered a sunfish, the world’s largest bony fish, which is common in the area and primarily forages for jellyfish. The sighting drew surprise and awe on social media, and the sunfish plays a vital role in the ocean food web.

SpaceX Rocket Launches from Vandenberg Space Force Base

SpaceX plans to increase rocket launches from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County, raising concerns from neighbors and environmental groups about the impact on marine life. The U.S. Space Force plans to triple the number of launches by 2026, with most of them conducted by SpaceX.

Impact of Overfishing and Climate Change on Fish Size

Fish are shrinking in size due to overfishing and climate change, which threatens the food supply of over 3 billion people who rely on seafood. Scientists found that warm water tanks result in smaller trout compared to those raised in colder water.

Whale Conservation and Vessel Safety

The U.S. Coast Guard is testing a new system to reduce whale strikes by vessels in the waters around Seattle.