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Scientists examine a weather phenomenon central to the lives of billions from multiple angles.

China's island cities: Treasure or trouble for Asia?

Although submarine canyons are internationally recognized as sensitive ecosystems and reported to be biological hotspots, regional studies are required to validate this consensus. To this end, hydrographic and benthic biodiversity data were collected during three cruises (2016-2017) to provide insights on the benthic patterns within South African canyon and non-canyon offshore areas. A total of 25 stations, sampled at 200-1000 m depth range, form the basis of the multivariate analysis. Diversity gradients were calculated and then differences were compared across substrate types and depth zones represented within 12 canyon and 13 non-canyon stations. Significant differences in both substrate and depth were evident, despite measures being highly variable. This observation of varying diversity in different substrates is in line with previous studies. No clear pattern was observed for species diversity (delta+). However, non-canyon stations overall showed a higher diversity in comparison to canyon stations. A notable peak in diversity is observed in canyon areas in the 401-500 m depth zone. Species richness followed an opposing pattern, as it decreased with depth and was consistently higher in canyon areas. These results align with the well-defined influence of depth-related variables on the distribution of taxonomic groups and the substrate available, at various scales. The eutrophic characteristic of the Benguela region may have attributed to the insignificant diversity differences between canyon and non-canyon stations. To assess the benthic species structure in canyon and non-canyon areas, we converted the 108 benthic species into a gamma+ matrix. We then modelled the biological response to predictor variables (substrate and depth). Although the canyon and non-canyon areas have an overlapping species composition, the main effects (canyon vs. non-canyon, depth, and substrate) showed significant differences. Thirteen species were characteristic of canyon areas, whilst

Tsunami Waves Amplified by Buildings.

EU Naval Force can confirm that the Malaysian flagged Motor Vessel MV Albedo, held by armed pirates at an anchorage close to the Somali Coast, has sunk in rough seas.

Mangrove forests around the Indo-Pacific region could be submerged by 2070, according to international research published today.

Mangrove forests around the Indo-Pacific region could be submerged by 2070, according to international research published today.

World sea piracy falls to lowest level since 2008.

Greenpeace activists target destructive fishing in Indian Ocean - in pictures.

Greenpeace activists target destructive fishing in Indian Ocean - in pictures.

New ocean model simulations could refine the search area.

Thank you for not visiting: tourist hotspots that have done a Koh Tachai.

Search for MH370 likely to end by August.

Search for MH370 likely to end by August.

Oceanographers offer clues to Malaysian airlines crash.

Final sweep for MH370 sea search.