Fresh Science

Smoke from fires raging through tropical forests near coastal reefs can cause an algal bloom capable of killing virtually all coral and fish for hundreds of kilometres, according to new research by Australian National University scientists.

Puberty blues: goby fish choose their sex to find a mate New research on the Great Barrier Reef has revealed that some young reef fish can choose when they mature and which sex they want to be when they grow up.

An Adelaide researcher has used kelp to demonstrate a principle of importance to planners and conservationists-that the best way to maintain rare species when habitats are broken up and destroyed is to ensure neighbouring patches are as close together as possible.

In a world-first, research has used sophisticated time-lapse video microscope techniques to watch the sex lives of red seaweed in action. “Until now, no one knew what exactly happens when these seaweeds become sexy,” says University of Melbourne researcher, Dr Sarah Wilson. “Despite the fact that red seaweed is worth hundreds of millions of dollars…