Whale shark shipping collisions may increase as the ocean warms

Global warming could increase the threat posed to whale sharks from large ships, according to a new study published in Nature Climate Change. Researchers from the Marine Biological Association (MBA) and University of Southampton predict that increased ocean temperatures will see this already endangered species driven into new habitats crossed by busy shipping lanes. The … Read more

Seawater Life Support Project Shortlisted for Two Prestigious IET Awards

The collaborative Seawater Life Support Project has been shortlisted for two prestigious awards by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). These accolades are in recognition of contributions to engineering excellence and sustainability, as well as a commitment to collaborative innovation within the sector. The nominated project was undertaken for Marine Biological Association (MBA) and … Read more

Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom – A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation

The Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom (JMBA) has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1887. For over a century, JMBA has been at the forefront of marine biology research, publishing groundbreaking studies and discoveries that have contributed significantly to the field. With a focus on the marine … Read more

Empowering Student Members with new bursaries

Two Marine Biological Association (MBA) Members were awarded prestigious bursaries to attend the European Coral Reef Symposium (ECRS). PhD student Judith Camps-Castella who studies Marine Biodiversity at the University of Barcelona and Marine Science Masters student Ana Ferreira Coelho from the University of Plymouth had the opportunity to network and enhance their marine skillsets at … Read more

Study reveals decline in foundation species due to summertime Marine Heatwaves

Researchers have found compelling evidence that intense, summertime Marine Heatwaves play a significant role in the decline of vital marine species. Marine heatwaves are periods of abnormally high seawater temperatures that are unusual for a particular season and region. These extreme weather events can become stressful for marine life, affecting their ability to grow, reproduce … Read more

Pioneering water intake line will enhance research and support flourishing marine life in Plymouth Sound

We are pleased to announce the successful deployment of the Seawater Life Support, an innovative system that connects the Marine Biological Association’s (MBA) Research Aquarium to the sea. The new 27- metre-long intake line which has a lifespan of up to 30 years, is a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for supporting marine life in … Read more

British shellfish and seaweed farms could provide valuable habitats for coastal fish species, according to new research

Shellfish and seaweed farming offer potentially sustainable food sources and are increasingly recognised for their additional environmental benefits, but research into their value for fish populations is currently lacking. Researchers from the Marine Biological Association (MBA) and the University of Exeter teamed up to determine whether these aquaculture sites help or hinder fish abundance and … Read more

MBA Staff Spotlight: Dr Cordelia Roberts

Dr Cordelia Roberts is a Post-doctoral Research Assistant in Marine Microbial Ecology and Biogeochemistry, and previously completed an MRes and PhD at the Marine Biological Association (MBA). As a researcher Cordelia is interested in looking at dead, dying and faecal material in the ocean (similar to leaf litter on land) which form sinking and suspended … Read more

Small but mighty – study highlights the abundance and importance of the ocean’s tiniest inhabitants

New research sheds light on tiny plankton, which can make up more than 70% of the plankton biomass found in the ocean. Tiny plankton – measuring less than 20µm (or 0.02mm) in diameter – make up the majority of plankton in the ocean and play a critical role in the planet’s health, according to new … Read more

Five years of innovation supported by the Marine Business Technology Centre

Since 2018, the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) provided £2.5M to the Marine Business Technology Centre (MBTC) in Devon. This has accelerated the development of marine innovation. It was originally introduced to provide support for businesses in Devon and Plymouth to develop and test new marine technology and thereby support long-term innovation and growth in … Read more