08 Sep 2026
Photo by Juanma Ciemente Alloza More than 40 species of shark live in British waters, yet scientists know remarkably little about most of them. A new three-year research project, led by Dr Lucy Hawkes and Dr Matthew Witt at the University of Exeter, aims to close that gap for three of the most vulnerable: […]
01 Sep 2026
Photo by Ray Harrington Atlantic bluefin tuna have recolonised the waters off north-east England for the first time in around 60 years, in a moment researchers are calling a genuine conservation success, albeit one with caveats. The milestone came in two stages: a historic catch off Whitby in mid-August, followed by a University of […]
25 Aug 2026
Photo by Pratik Patil Fishing nets remain the most likely cause of death for common dolphins that strand on the Cornish coast, according to a seven-year post-mortem review that has prompted renewed calls for wider access to acoustic deterrent devices. The study, carried out by the University of Exeter, Cornwall Wildlife Trust and the Cornwall […]
21 Jul 2026
Photo Credit: AdobeStock A team led by the University of Exeter has been awarded £939,434 by Natural England to run one of the most detailed investigations yet in English waters into three of the country’s most vulnerable shark species. The three-year project, which will run from July 2026 to March 2029, will focus on […]
18 May 2026
Photo by Jacqueline Heron Wray A new study of Scotland’s South Arran Marine Protected Area has found that nearly a decade of protection from bottom trawling and dredging has produced striking ecological recovery, with highly protected seabeds recording around three times the abundance of marine life and twice as many species compared with nearby […]
16 Sep 2025
Photo by Stepan Ivanov A new study using baited underwater cameras has revealed the richness of marine life around the Isles of Scilly, highlighting the benefits of strong protection and well-managed fisheries. The University of Exeter, working with the Isles of Scilly Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority and Natural England, found “vibrant marine life” including […]