Stories
The Foundation Blog
Stories from the National Marine Sanctuary System — conservation, science, community, and the people who care for America's public waters.
All stories
243 posts · showing 193–216
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Creature Feature: Northern Elephant Seals
One of the largest and most unique species of seal in the world, this week’s creature feature is none other than the Northern Elephant Seal! Appearance A species of phocid (true) seal, northern elephant seals are quite unique in their appearance and behavior. This species is not named for its size but for the distinct, […]
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Creature Feature: Spiny Lobster
Spiny lobsters are crustaceans like crabs, shrimp, and even krill. They can be identified by their hard, bumpy exoskeleton.
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Shark Fun Facts
Need to brush up on some shark facts for your next lightning round of ocean trivia? We’ve got you covered! Anatomy – Sharks don’t have bones. They are a subspecies of fish known as elasmobranchs, which is a family including sharks, rays,
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Creature Feature: Gray whale
The world’s longest migrating mammal and one of the world’s 13 species of great whales, this week’s Creature Feature is none other than the gray whale! Appearance The gray whale is characterized by its patchy discoloration, lack of distin
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What is Blue Carbon?
Blue carbon is the term used to describe the carbon captured by our oceans and waterways. See how this helps protect our planet against climate change.
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Creature Feature: North Atlantic Right Whale | NMSF
One of the world’s most endangered marine mammals, a dramatic change in reproduction habits has scientists concerned about the future of this species.
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Celebrating Stellwagen Bank & Hawaiian Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuaries
Both established on November 4, 1992, they recently celebrated their 26th anniversaries as protected sites, providing a safe habitat for species.
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Manatees
Manatees are one of only a few species of water-born mammals. See how manatees play a critical part in our ocean ecosystems.
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Creepy, Crawly, and Slimy: Invertebrates in the National Marine Sanctuary System
While they may look strange or gross, invertebrates, animals without true backbones, are essential to healthy marine environments and food webs. Learn more!
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Reducing Risk in Coastal Communities
By: Taylor Berry, Development and Office Coordinator Healthy coastlines are vital to trade and tourism economies in the United States, especially in port cities. In fact, almost 40% of the United States population lives in coastal countie
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Celebrating 46 Years of the National Marine Sanctuaries Act
On October 23, 1972 the National Marine Sanctuaries Act became law. 46 years later, the National Marine Sanctuary System protects 15 wondrous sites.
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Giant Pacific Octopus
The Giant Pacific Octopus can reach up to 16 feet long & 110 pounds, making it the largest species of octopus. Learn more here.
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Are You Smarter Than An Octopus?
You have probably heard that octopuses are thought to be one of the most intelligent animals in the world, but what does that mean?
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Marine Mammals of Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary | NMSF
Over 36 species of marine mammals pass through or reside in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary in California. Learn more here.
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Creature Feature: Lionfish
Lionfish have gone from being exotic home aquarium fishes to invaders of marine sanctuaries in the US. Learn more about these beautiful marine creatures.
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What Makes Manta Rays and Stingrays Different? – NMSF
Manta Rays and Stingrays are members of the Chondrichthyes class. Although related, they have several differences setting them apart.
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Goliath Grouper – Habitat, Diet, and Reproduction | NMSF
Goliath groupers can weigh up to 800 pounds, and certainly live up to their name! This gentle giant is most often found in the Florida Keys.
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Scalloped Hammerhead Sharks – Facts and Conservation | Endangered
The Eastern Pacific and Eastern Atlantic DPS populations of scalloped hammerhead sharks are endangered under the Endangered Species Act.
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Capitol Hill Ocean Week 2018
Capitol Hill Ocean Week 2018, the nation’s premier ocean policy conference, took place June 5-7 in Washington, DC. Read about plenaries and outcomes here.
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New Legislation Introduced to Fight Ocean Acidification
The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation applauds Congressional efforts to prioritize sound science and collaboration to address ocean acidification.
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Plastic Pollution: One of Ocean Conservation’s Grand Challenges
More than 300 million tons of plastic is produced each year, and as much as 7 million tons of plastic end up in oceans every year.
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Laysan Albatross – The Heavy Hawaiian Seabird | NMSF
Large, heavy seabirds, the Laysan Albatross can fly great distances with short wing strokes and a long period of graceful soaring.
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The Marine Mammal Protection Act Helps Protect Species
Marine mammals are sources of international significance. The Marine Mammal Act prevents populations from falling below sustainable levels.
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Spiny Dogfish – Habitat and Management
They hunt in packs, and their spines are venomous. They will attack other sea creatures twice their size. Learn more about the Spiny Dogfish.