December 1 - 15, 2007

Mon., 12/03       Ocean as global radiator: The ocean keeps the planet operating at a safe and stable temperature, much like the radiator in your car.    

Tue., 12/04       The invisible polluter: There is more to water pollution than oil spills and industrial waste. Airborne pollutants also contribute.       

Wed., 12/05       Venus fly traps of the deep: The Venus flytrap is a plant that catches and digests small, unsuspecting insects.  In a similar manner, one ocean plant snatches and eats small animals in the ocean.          

Thu., 12/06       Sea urchin increase: High demand for sea urchins has tipped the balance of nature in the Gulf of Maine.

Fri., 12/07          A good taboo: Certain native cultural practices actually protect delicate coral reefs.              

Mon., 12/10       Fast growth at deep vents: Deep in the ocean are two different environments, both home to a wealth of animals.      

Tue., 12/11        Harbor seals: One scientist who studies harbor seal vocalizations has discovered a large number of their most interesting interactions take place underwater.

Wed., 12/12       Beluga blues: While most belugas live in Arctic waters, a few live in the St. Lawrence River in Canada.          

Thurs., 12/13    Salty snack for whales: Whales don’t drink salty ocean water; they filter it in order to “catch” their meal.        

Fri., 12/14         Fish switch sex: The tiny fish called the blue head wrasse can change from female to male, a change scientists believe is caused by hormonal triggers in the brain.