(FISH DISCOVERY) A new study suggests that fish are an important link in the evolution of land animals. The research focuses on how fish can control their movements both in water and on land, and how their jumping skills might have made them the first terrestrial dwellers. Read on for evidence of why we might have evolved from these acrobatic fish. — Global Animal
(PIRANHAS) Most scientists keep their distance in studying these flesh-eating carnivores, but recently, several curious biologists dove into murky waters to understand the aggressive sounds of red-bellied piranhas. Three sequential barking patterns were interpreted during these experiments, with all being warnings to other fish. Do these grumpy piranhas have any more to say? Read on…—Global Animal
(SEA LION) WASHINGTON — Last Wednesday, federal legislators passed a bill that would make it easier to kill California sea lions in the Columbia River. While fishermen regularly try to deter the sea lions from eating salmon by shooting them with rubber bullets and scaring them off with flares or by boat, this bill will allow permit holders to kill up to 10 sea lions per year. Supporters of the legislation claim that the sea lions are an invasive, unnatural threat to the region’s salmon populations. Critics, on the other hand, believe that killing sea lions would hardly benefit salmon numbers as last year sea lions consumed a mere 1.4 percent of the salmon population. Read on to learn more about this controversial new bill and its potential effects. — Global Animal
(FREEWAY SEA LION) CALIFORNIA — On Saturday, a sea lion crossed eight lanes of traffic on Highway 101 near Burlingame. The sea lion was rescued after she exited at Broadway, and veterinarians later discovered a gunshot wound in her jaw. She’s okay for now, but she may not fully recover. Fishermen often illegally shoot near sea lions to keep them away from fish, but instances of sea lions being shot and killed are increasing. Read on for more about the sea lion referred to as Broadway Bound and the dangers facing these animals. — Global Animal
(ANIMAL FACTS) Have you ever wondered how fish communicate? Or why sometimes you just can’t shake those pesky mosquitoes? There are so many things that we still don’t know about the animal kingdom, but we learn new, fun, and weird animal facts all the time. Check out these amazing animal facts, and share some trivia of your own in the comments! — Global Animal
(PET CARE) — How can you tell that your aquarium is a happy home for your pet fish? A recent study suggests that most fish in tanks are unhappy. The study looks at how tank size and the complexity of the environment can either reduce or increase aggression in fish. Read on for tips on how to help keep your underwater friends friendly. — Global Animal
(ANIMAL INTELLIGENCE) AUSTRALIA — Intelligence has often been a trait reserved for animals. However, new evidence suggests that our underwater friends have some tricks – and some tools – up their sleeves. The Tusk fish, a large species of fish found in the Great Barrier Reef, was photographed smashing a shell against a rock on the ocean floor, a clear example of tool use, scientists say. Earlier studies have already proven that fish feel pain. See how this Tusk fish finding is forcing scientists to reevaluate the intelligence and presence of tool use in underwater species. — Global Animal
(ENDANGERED SALMON) OREGON — U.S. District Judge Redden ruled against the continuation of the current salmon conservation plan in the Northwestern United States. Redden stated that the plan needs to implement more action to adhere to the Endangered Species Act and called the current plan vague and ambiguous. The current plan will remain in place until 2013. Learn more about salmon conservation efforts here. — Global Animal
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