#Krill Strategies

[b2b-marketing-agency]

https://hubpages.com/business/the-role-of-email-marketing-in-lead-generation?done

[makairodonx]

A bonus creature feature made just to end of Spectember 2024! A mother Western Whale-Mole and her calf rise up to the surface of the cold ocean waters surrounding the southern coast of Svarogia to take in a breath of fresh air. Swarming around the giant marine mammals are flocks of two different seabird species that are both endemic to Svarogia: white, ternlike like relatives of hummingbirds and orange-headed, gannet-like relatives of starlings. At 14 to 18 meters long and weighing up to 42 metric tons, the Western Whale-Mole or Aquacondylura orientalis is one of the most common species of the Whale-Moles, a family of giant, aquatic moles that may have evolved from fossorial, pig or cow-sized ancestors millions of years earlier, and it thrives across the seas lying within the planet's Southern Temperate Zone. Western Whale-Moles usually migrate north to the tropics for the lagoons of island chains such as the Strzelecki Archipelago in which they can calve, and the families will soon head further south where shoals of feeder fish or krill have been brought up by the cold, nutrient-righ waters of Potworia's great southern ocean. Like all whale-moles, the Western Whale-Mole usually uses its long, whisker-lined rostrum and clawed flippers, the latter of which are also sometimes used for fighting, to dig up the ocean floor in order to forage for tuna-sized fish and crustaceans, and it is capable of smelling underwater by exhaling large air-bubbles onto any objects or scent-trails and inhaling the bubbles to carry scents back to its nostrills. These same bubbles are also used by individuals gathering together to trap fish or krill in a bubble-net feeding strategy similar to the one used by Earth's humback whales.

[bethanythebogwitch]

Wet Beast Wednesday: krill

The ocean is a huge place and food can be sparse. While the ocean receives plenty of energy in the form of sunlight, that energy needs to be converted into a form animals can consume. This is a job that krill have adopted with gusto. These little shrimpy critters live all over the world and play a vital role in the cycling of energy and nutrients. Krill are among the most common and important marine species, but many people overlook them or think of them as nothing but whale food. let's take a dive into the world of krill to show you that there's more there to appreciate.

(Image: a side view of an antarctic krill. It is a shrimp-like animal divided into a solid cephalothorax and flexible abdomen. On one end of the cephalothorax are the eyes and antennae and on the underside are multiple pairs of thin, feathery legs and gills. Along the segmented abdomen are paddle-like appendages. The tail is fanned out. The body is translucent with spots of red pigment. The cephalothorax looks green due to the presence of algae in the stomach. End ID)

There are 86 known species of krill in the order Euphausiacea. While they look a lot like shrimp or prawns, Euphausiacea is actually a sister group to Decapoda, which contains the shrimp, prawns, and most other crustaceans you've heard of. Krill can be distinguished from shrimp by the gills and number and anatomy of the limbs. Krill are zooplankton, a description which makes many people think they must be microscopic. In fact, plankton just means an organism is carried around by currents and cannot swim against them and has nothing to do with size. Most krill reach 1 to 2 centimeters as adults, but some species can get larger. The largest species, Thysanopoda cornuta, can reach 9.5 cm (3.75 in).

(Image: a swarm of krill in the ocean with so many members, it makes the water look red. End ID)

Krill anatomy is very similar to that of shrimp. Their bodies are divided into a cephalothorax, flexible abdomen, and tail fan. The cephalothorax is a fusion of the head (cephalon) and thorax. On the head are compound eyes, mouth, and antennae. Emerging from the thorax are legs. These legs are alternatively called pereiopods thoracopods, or thoracic legs. This is one of the key areas where krill are different from decapods. Decapods always have 5 pairs of thoracic legs and at least some of them are adapted for moving around on the ocean floor. Krill have a varying number of these legs and none are adapted for seafloor life. Krill spend their entire lives in the water column. Behind the legs are the gills, which are exposed to the water. The abdomen is long and flexible and has appendages called pleopods or swimmeretes that are used to assist in swimming and moving water over the gills. Decapods also have these. Finally is the tail fan, which is used in swimming and is also found in decapods. Krill exoskeletons are typically transparent with a bit of pigment on the top. All but one species of krill are bioluminescent, though its possible that the bioluminescence comes from their food. Krill have gills that are exposed to the water while Decapod gills are inside of their exoskeletons.

(Image: an anatomical diagram of a krill, with different external and internal body parts labeled. End ID. Source)

Krill are primarily filter-feeders that live in all oceans and in the shallow and deep seas. Most species feed on phytoplankton, especially diatoms, while other are omnivores or carnivores that hunt zooplankton and larval fish. The thoracic legs are covered in filamentous structures and will be held out in a formation called the feeding basket. Plankton passing through the basket will get caught and transferred to the mouth. Krill have a simple digestive tract with a two-chambered gut. The first chamber acts as a mill, crushing the hard shells of the diatoms to make digestion easier. Most krill practice diel vertical migration, a common ocean strategy where animals will remain at depth during the day and move closer to the surface at night. Some species remain in the deep sea all their lives. As krill feed, they become heavier and more sluggish and will sink, allowing the hungrier krill. Krill swim and feed in massive swarms.

(Image: an antarctic krill balanced on a human finger, to show its size. It is barely longer than the first segment of the finger. End ID)

Krill are a vital part of ocean ecology. Energy is introduced to phytoplankton by the sun and used to produce the energy-storing molecule ATP. Krill eat the phytoplankton and convert that energy into a form larger animals can consume and digest. Whales can't gain energy from phytoplankton, but they can get that energy from krill. Krill are a vital food source for baleen whales, seals and sea lions, fish, squid, and other animals. By eating phytoplankton and then being eaten themselves, krill allow that energy to move through the entire food web. Krill also play a role in moving nutrients and carbon through the ocean. Carbon enters the ocean through runoff and carbon dioxide from the atmosphere entering the surface waters. Phytoplankton take in the carbon dioxide and covert it into forms of carbon that other organisms can use. The krill then eat the plankton, taking the carbon into themselves. Through feces, molted exoskeletons, and dead krill, that carbon can sink into the deep sea, where it can become sequestered in the sea floor. Similarly, nutrients can pass from krill to their predators or into the deep sea through feces and remains. Without krill and other animals filling similar roles, carbon and nutrients would have a much harder time reaching the deep ocean and larger animals wouldn't be able to access the energy stored in phytoplankton.

(Image: a diagram showing the highly complex process by which krill assist in moving carbon through the ocean. End ID. Source)

Being animals with exoskeletons, krill have to molt when they outgrow their current shells. Generally speaking, young krill will molt more often than older ones. Most crustaceans will slow down as they age, with each molt occurring further and further apart. This is not the case with krill, which keep molting at a relatively consistent rate through their lives. some species of krill can also get smaller after a molt instead of always getting bigger. This is used when food is unavailable, reducing the amount of energy the animal needs. Some species have been observed going 9 months between meals. Some species can spontaneously molt as a reaction to threats, leaving behind the empty exoskeleton as a decoy for predators.

(Image: a northern krill. It is similar to the antarctic krill, but with a different arrangement of pigment. End ID)

Krill typically mate seasonally, though some tropical species can mate year-round. A female can produce thousands of eggs, which can make up a third of her body weight during mating season. Being a major prey animal, krill need to reproduce rapidly to keep their populations up. Most species will mate and produce eggs multiple times per mating season. Males approach females and deposit sacs of sperm into their genital openings. The females then produce eggs which can be treated in two ways. Most species will release their eggs into the water column and provide no further care. 29 species instead attach their eggs to a sac held by the rearmost thoracic legs and carry them until the eggs hatch. Some of these species hatch at a more mature stage. Once the eggs hatch, they have to swim upwards to reach the photic zone of the ocean, where photosynthesis can take place. Larvae progress through several developmental stages. Like other crustaceans, they start as a napulus larva, though some sac-brooders will hatvch at the more advanced pseudometanapulus stage. Either way, they progress then to the metanapulus stage. At this stage, they can lo longer subside on yolk and must reach the photic zone and metamorphose into the calyptosis stage, the first stage with a mouth, before starving. The final larval stage is called the furcilia, which passes through a number of molts. During each molt, the abdomen will grow another segment and pair of swimmeretes. After the final furcilia stage, the krill will resemble a small adult. Krill life spans vary baes on species, from less than a year to 10 years, with species in colder water usually living longer. Relatively few krill will die of old age. In the antarctic krill, Euphausia superba, over half the population is eaten every year.

(Image: several stages of krill development form egg to napulus to more advanced larval stages that look like the adult. End ID. Source)

Krill conservation needs vary by species, but in general, they are highly abundant and in little danger of extinction. Krill are among the most abundant animals in the world, with antarctic krill having one of the largest total biomass of any animal. Monitoring the krill population is extremely important because of their importance to the global ecosystem. Krill have been fished commercially for centuries, used as food, bait, supplements, animal feed, and for shrimp paste and fish oil. Most krill fishing takes place around Antarctica as the krill there are highly abundant and seen as cleaner. As the krill fishery grows, more studies need to be done on the impact on the population and the other species that rely on them. Krill are also impacted by global climate change, ocean acidification, and pollution. Krill can ingest microplastics, which can then be passed onto whatever eats them. Krill are keystone species, meaning they are crucial to the health of their environments. If they go, massive parts of the ocean ecosystem will collapse.

(Image: someone holding a pile of dozens of krill in their hands. End ID)

[fantasyfan20]

Silly lil lists for all my Sky OCs

I’ve been yapping to @gala-xyzz and decided to add all da lists for my silly lil childrens :D

I’m so normal about them (spoiler alert, I am not)

IMPORTANT THINGY: In my AU, Theo formed a small military faction of Sky kids to scout Wasteland and survey possible threats. Not sure what to call the faction, but ideas are welcome :D

Kace

- 14 years old

- favorite place in Sky is the Assembly treehouse

- stubborn as all hell

- when he wants something, he WILL get it

- knows nothing of social cues

- also petty

- before he deserted, he got into a yelling match with Theo over which Light creature was the cutest

- stole Theo’s tent for the funnies

- he could hear Theo yelling from across the Graveyard and burst out laughing

- misses banter with Theo after deserting

- hates himself for being so petty and spiteful

- that one short friend with an ungodly amount of attitude

- wonders how someone as pure and sweet as Sofii exists

- helps Raylah organize her archive notes when he eventually gets bored of bothering Finn and Theo

- gives Teri constructive criticism on his plays

- surprisingly good at interior decorating, his nest is very pretty

Theo

- 14 years old

- stubborn and intimidating

- hard to read

- well versed in ancient military strategies of Sky

- has a soft spot for Sofii but will never admit it to anyone but her

- Raylah is convinced he’s secretly clumsy, but he’s never tripped over anything in his life

- had a dream that he saw Tsadi and wonders if it was a prophetic dream from the Megabird

- favorite place in Sky is the Graveyard in Wasteland

- also likes Treasure Reef cuz deep ocean excites him

- managed to bring Sofii to see the giant krill in the Reef once, and Raylah insisted it was a kidnapping (according to him, it was not)

- misses his bestie Kace

- he found Kace at the Assembly treehouse once and tried to talk to him, but got pissed and left when Kace gave him the finger

- will call someone on their bs in the most obnoxious way possible

- would low key burn a whole kingdom for Sofii, but he doesn’t mention it to anybody

- extremely agile/athletic

- can easily sneak up on people, uses it to scare Raylah for the funnies

- will do anything to make Sofii laugh

- wore flowers to a faction meeting once that Sofii had put there and was uncharacteristically enthusiastic

- this boi literally showed everyone these flowers and was like “Look, my best friend made me this flower crown”

- he’s a lil dumb when it comes to social cues

- once Kace is in the group, he’ll be a smartass just to spite him

- he and Kace will push each other around a lot

- whenever he sees Kace hanging out with Sofii, he gets the sudden urge to throw him out a window

Teri

- 13 years old

- everyone’s favorite theater boi

- favorite place in Sky is the village theater in Valley

- loves telling stories and performing

- thought Finn was a weird emo dude when he first met him

- will throw hands with anyone who dares hurt his new friends

- always wears a mask because he has a scar on his face from his first trip to Eden

- the scar has Darkness on it, so it looks cool but also scary

- meets with the Valley elders every now and then to debate about the most effective entertainment mediums

- writes his own plays in hopes of having his friends perform in them

- mostly so his OTPs can manifest

- gets along really well with Finn, they sit on a roof in the Village of Dreams and talk about the most out of pocket things you’ll ever hear

- is insecure about his scar

- loves wearing the Mad Hatter hat cuz he’s a flamboyant boi

- thinks Theo is emo too

- Sofii comes by the theater to help him write plays

- will never turn down an offer for food

- theorizes about ancient kingdom things with Raylah

- secretly very sassy

Finn

- 15 years old

- certified smartass

- trolls people for the funnies

- sarcasm is his greatest weapon

- uses his firework staff to bap people when he thinks they’re being dumb

- his definition of dumb is “when you can’t tell your feelings from your true intentions”

- smart boi and will lord it over you every chance he gets

- Theo tried to recruit him for the mini military faction when it first started, but he said no

- spy for King Resh

- Resh manipulated him into thinking he was worthless and only useful for getting information

- low key traumatized cuz of that

- was friends with Resh before he became king/corrupted

- took the trials in the Cave of Prophecies alongside Alef, but failed

- Resh made Finn his advisor when he became king

- was forced to watch Resh become cold and distant once he started harvesting Dark crystals and Light Creatures

- had no friends until Kace brought him to a group hang out

- only started hanging out with Kace and the others in hopes of getting information for Resh

- got attached to them and ended up giving Resh a resignation letter in the form of a middle finger

- became more empathetic after that

- lets Sofii put flowers in his hair

- shows Sofii constellations when she can’t sleep

- kept up the tradition of bringing people into the group by bringing Teri

- favorite place in Sky is the wind paths

Sofii

- 13 years old

- Raylah found her when she fell from the stars

- loves spending time with Raylah and her other friends

- tends to be shy, but will try to include someone who seems lonely

- favorite places in Sky are Prairie Peaks and Sanctuary Islands

- she and Raylah love hanging out in Sanctuary together

- always wears flowers in her hair

- loves putting flowers in her friends’ hair as well

- takes Raylah stargazing whenever she is sad and overworked from looking at ancient Archives in Vault

- loves playing flute and guitar

- loves giving and receiving hugs

- she met Theo when he heard her playing her flute in Prairie

- loves reading books

- would absolutely hit you with a brick if you hurt Raylah in any way

- puts flowers in Theo’s hair (he will deny that he enjoys it, but she knows he does)

- braided Theo’s hair ONCE and now Raylah will never let it go

- short child with high energy

- scares easily, which Finn and Theo take advantage of pretty often

Raylah

- 15 years old

- household perfectionist

- the mom of the group

- can and will hit you with a shovel if you don’t take care of yourself

- “DID YOU HYDRATE? Damn it, Kace this is why Finn calls you dumb”

- salty in the most chaotic way possible

- likes playing pranks on Theo with Sofii

- scary mom friend

- would drop a building on someone to protect Sofii cuz they’re super close, basically sisters

- if someone touches her stuff, you can bet there’ll be consequences

- move anything even an inch and she will notice

- senses are dialed up to 11 when she’s studying archives in Vault

- enjoys learning about the ancient history of Sky

- cannot play any instruments, but she enjoys hearing Sofii play her flute

- her favorite places in Sky are Starlight Desert and Sanctuary Islands

- also likes ice skating

- will deny it if you ask about the time she tripped and fell on her face while ice skating

[sempiternal-meridians]

🐋 Humpback Whales and Bryde's Whales have highly effective hunting/feeding strategies. The most commonly used method is called the "Bubble Network" (or Bubble-net feeding). The size of the net created can range from three to thirty meters in diameter. It is one of the few surface feeding behaviors that humpback whales are known to engage in. This type of feeding can be done alone or in groups with as many as twenty whales participating at once. 

The hunt begins when whales dive under a school of fish or krills (shrimp-like marine invertebrates), emitting high-frequency vocalizations. As the group of whales circle/spiral, they use a team effort to disorient and corral the fish into a "net" of bubbles. One whale will sound a feeding call, at which point all whales simultaneously swim upwards with mouths open to feed on the trapped fish. As the whales swim up to the surface to feed they can hold up to 15,000 gallons of sea water in their mouths. In a single day a humpback whale can consume 3,000 pounds (1.4 metric tons) of fish. 

This feeding technique  demonstrates sophisticated work as a team  and is a fascinating display of natural intelligence.

Source: WeTheAether Instagram

[catboybiologist]

Hey also krill is still an animal, it's just a pelagic shrimp

Humpback whales also eat larger fish and squid, so it's not that different in terms of diet- just feeding strategy.

Sperm whale mimics a spinning diver.

[marekating]

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Market Size, Share, Future Outlook, 2032

Market Overview:

The global omega-3 fatty acids market size is expected to reach USD 2.24 billion by 2028, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.80% during the forecast period. The increasing awareness about the health benefits of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) can have tremendous impact on the omega-3 fatty acids market growth during the forecast period, states Fortune Business Insights in a report titled “Omega-3 Fatty Acids Market, 2021 – 2028.” The market size stood at USD 1.54 billion in 2020 and USD 1.62 billion in 2021.

List of Key Companies in the Market:

Royal DSM N.V. (Netherlands)

Evonik (Germany)

BASF SE (Germany)

Lonza (Switzerland)

Epax (Norway)

Croda International, Plc (U.K.)

Cargill, Inc. (U.S.)

Golden Omega (Chile)

Corbion (Netherlands)

Polaris (U.S.)

Segmentation:

Based on source, the market is classified into concentrates, fish oil, algae oil, krill oil, and other plant sources. Based on application, the market is divided into dietary supplements, functional/fortified foods, infant formulae, pharmaceuticals, and animal feed & pet food. The growing popularity of dietary supplements will boost the segment growth. Geographically, the market is divided into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa.

Report Coverage:

The report presents In-depth information about the challenges, opportunities, and market trends. It has elaborate details regarding the growth drivers and obstacles that the market may come across during the forthcoming years. It offers a list of the crucial factors impacting the market in every region. It has an extensive analysis of the latest trends of the market.

Source: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/omega-3-fatty-acids-market-100248

Drivers & Restraints:

Heavy Investments in R&D to Boost Omega-3 Fatty Acids Market

Continuous technical advancements that improve the delivery and absorption of fatty acids in the body are fueling the market's expansion. Attributed to its bioavailability and variable absorption rate, the manufacture of lipid-based supplements remains a difficult task. Several studies have suggested that many factors might affect the body's ability to absorb omega fatty acids. The market's major companies are pouring money into research & development to create technologies that will boost omega-3 bioavailability in the body. Pharmako Biotechnologies, for example, released a novel AquaCelle self-emulsifying medication delivery system in October 2019.

Furthermore, processing techniques that allow omega-3 to be extracted from new sources will increase demand for the product. Furthermore, attempts to enhance the organoleptic qualities of fatty acids isolated from marine sources are projected to support market expansion in the future years.

However, processing related challenges and organoleptic properties may hinder market growth.

Regional Insights:

Growing Cognizance regarding Fatty Acids' Benefits to Propel Market in North America

In 2020, the market size in North America was USD 0.62 billion. The region is expected to account for the highest omega-3 fatty acids market share in the forthcoming years. The market's strong growth in North America might be due to growing knowledge of polyunsaturated fatty acids' beneficial health benefits. Dietary supplements and functional foods will be in high demand in this area due to the rising prevalence of lifestyle-related health issues, the aging population, hectic lifestyles, and stress factors. Veganism and vegetarianism are becoming more popular in the region, resulting in a surge in demand for omega fatty acids derived from plants. Increased demand for omega fatty acid-containing functional foods and dietary supplements has stemmed from a rising knowledge of the health advantages of polyunsaturated fatty acids among European and South American clients.

Competitive Landscape:

Adoption of Partnership Strategies by Companies to Intensify Market

Attributed to the existence of companies, such as Evonik, BASF SE, Royal DSM N.V., Lonza & Epax, the market structure is relatively consolidated. These large businesses are attempting to consolidate even further by purchasing smaller participants in the market. Partnerships, partnerships, and research and development investments are just a few of the primary measures used by these firms to further expand their market position.

Key Development:

June 2021: OmegaQuant announced the enlargement of its portfolio with the launch of the new Omega-3 Index Test for pets. With this sample collection kit, pet owners can use their veterinarian to measure their pet’s omega-3 status.

[litefacts23]

The Largest Desert in the World: A Surprising Icy Wilderness

When most people hear the word "desert," they imagine vast expanses of golden sand dunes under a blazing sun. While that image applies to many deserts, the largest desert in the world defies this stereotype. In fact, it’s not hot and sandy at all—it’s cold, icy, and located at the southernmost point of our planet. Welcome to the Antarctic Desert.

What Defines a Desert?

Before we dive into what makes Antarctica the largest desert, it's important to understand what qualifies an area as a desert. A desert is not defined by temperature or sand, but by precipitation. Specifically, any region that receives less than 10 inches (25 cm) of rainfall (or equivalent snowfall) annually is considered a desert.

Deserts come in two main types: hot deserts, like the Sahara and the Arabian Desert, and cold deserts, such as those found in the Arctic and Antarctica.

Antarctica: The World’s Largest Desert

The Antarctic Desert spans approximately 14 million square kilometers (5.4 million square miles), making it the largest desert on Earth by far. This icy expanse covers the entire continent of Antarctica and is almost entirely covered in ice sheets that contain around 70% of the world’s fresh water.

Despite its thick ice cover, Antarctica receives very little precipitation—averaging about 2 inches (50 mm) of water equivalent per year, mostly as snow. Some regions of the continent, particularly the interior, receive even less, making them some of the driest places on Earth.

The Harsh Climate of Antarctica

Antarctica is the coldest and windiest place on the planet. Temperatures in the interior can plunge below -80°C (-112°F) during winter. Even in the summer months, the temperatures rarely rise above freezing except along the coast.

The extreme cold and dryness create an environment that is inhospitable to most life. While animals like penguins, seals, and certain birds thrive along the coasts, the interior of Antarctica is largely barren.

Comparing Antarctica to Other Deserts

Here’s how Antarctica compares to other major deserts around the world:

Desert

Type

Size (approx.)

Location

Antarctic Desert

Cold

14 million km²

Antarctica

Arctic Desert

Cold

13.9 million km²

Arctic region

Sahara Desert

Hot

9.2 million km²

North Africa

Arabian Desert

Hot

2.3 million km²

Middle East

Gobi Desert

Cold

1.3 million km²

Mongolia and China

As shown above, the Antarctic Desert is significantly larger than even the vast Sahara Desert.

Why Antarctica Matters

Even though it’s a frozen desert, Antarctica plays a vital role in the health of our planet. Its ice sheets reflect sunlight, helping regulate the Earth’s temperature. The continent also acts as a sensitive indicator of climate change. As global temperatures rise, Antarctic ice is melting at an accelerated rate, contributing to rising sea levels.

Moreover, Antarctica is protected by international agreements such as the Antarctic Treaty, which designates the continent for peaceful, scientific exploration and bans military activity.

Life in the Largest Desert

Despite its harsh conditions, life does exist in Antarctica. Microorganisms such as extremophiles survive in the most unexpected places, including beneath glaciers and in ice-covered lakes. The coasts support a surprisingly rich ecosystem, including:

Penguins (like Emperor and Adelie penguins)

Seals (such as Weddell and leopard seals)

Seabirds (including skuas and petrels)

Krill, the small crustaceans that form the base of the Antarctic food web

These species are well-adapted to the extreme cold and have evolved unique strategies to survive.

Myths and Misconceptions

One of the most common misconceptions is that the Sahara Desert is the largest desert in the world. While it is the largest hot desert, it ranks third overall in terms of size. The Arctic Desert comes in second, followed by the Sahara.

Another myth is that deserts must be sandy. In reality, some deserts are rocky, icy, or covered in salt flats. It’s not the landscape that defines a desert—it’s the lack of moisture.

Visiting Antarctica

Though remote and challenging to access, Antarctica is a destination for scientific researchers and adventure tourists alike. Expeditions typically leave from South America and are only possible during the summer months (November to March), when conditions are least severe.

Tourism is strictly regulated to preserve the fragile environment, but those who make the journey often describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The stunning ice formations, wildlife, and sense of untouched wilderness are unparalleled.

Conclusion

The largest desert in the world is not a sun-baked expanse of sand, but a frigid, silent continent of ice. The Antarctic Desert challenges our ideas of what a desert looks like and plays a crucial role in our planet’s environmental stability. Understanding Antarctica’s significance helps highlight the diverse and unexpected features of Earth’s ecosystems—and reminds us of the importance of protecting them.

[literaturereviewhelp]

The objective of this literature review is to compare four articles about fluoride, based on their writing styles and quality levels. These articles are listed as below. 1. Peckham and Awofeso’s (2014) “Water Fluoridation: A Critical Review of the Physiological Effects of Ingested Fluoride as a Public Health Intervention” 2. Ling et al.’s (2013) “Evaluation of the Toxicity of Fluorine in Antarctic Krill on Soft Tissues of Wistar Rats” 3. Jetti et al.’s (2014) “Neuroprotective effect of Ascorbic acid and Ginkgo biloba against Fluoride caused Neurotoxicity” 4. Choi et al.’s (2012) “Developmental Fluoride Neurotoxicity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis” The literature review also aims to evaluate the validity and reliability of the information. With these purposes at the backdrop, the literature review memo will provide a comparative summary of the articles in order to determine the important skills of scientific research. Expectedly, the literature review will help to evaluate the scientific writing style followed in the selected articles. Additionally, as the literature review attempts to evaluate the evidences established in order understand the topic being discussed, i.e. side-effects of Fluorine, relevant knowledge from selected articles could be gathered. Furthermore, through the literature review memo, the choices and applications of the words could be understood better, especially in relation to the framing of scientific research. Simultaneously, the literature review memo also assisted in understanding the pattern of writing and strategies in the selection of languages during the framing of scientific research. Analysis: Comparing the sources Writing style One of the parameters to compare the selected articles in this literature review is the writing style followed by the authors. Considering this particular parameter, Stephen Peckham and Niyi Awofeso, authors of the article “Water Fluoridation: A Critical Review of the Physiological Effects of Ingested Fluoride as a Public Health Intervention”, have applied present indefinite tense and present perfect tense throughout the article; for example ― “Fluorine is the world’s 13th most abundant element and constitutes 0.08% of the Earth crust” (Peckham and Awofeso, 2014). The authors hardly applied past tense while describing preceding occurrences. Both the authors have applied passive voice sentences in order to express their thoughts, as can be observed with reference to their statement ― “Despite this community water fluoridation is endorsed by the World Health Authority, the US Public Health Agency, and most dental and public health organisations as a safe and effective method of reducing dental decay (i.e., caries), a major global public health problem affecting 60–90% of schoolchildren and the vast majority of adults” (Peckham and Awofeso, 2014). On the other hand, Ling et al. (2013), in the article titled “Evaluation of the Toxicity of Fluorine in Antarctic Krill on Soft Tissues of Wistar Rats”, have attempted to inform audiences about the toxicity of fluorine in Antarctic krill. Considering the writing style followed by the authors in this article, it can be observed apparently that the authors have applied the present perfect tense and past indefinite tense in their discussion. At the same time, the authors have applied present perfect continuous tense ever rarely while describing preceding occurrences; for examples ― “body weight and viscera coefficients for kidney did not change significantly even after six months of treatment with F at 200 mg∙kg-1” and “Many recent studies have focused on the F in Antarctic krill, but the issue of F toxicity has been controversial” (Ling et al., 2013, p. 128). The review also makes it evident that the authors have used active voice sentences in order to express their thoughts, as in the sentence ― “The body weight of the rats and the viscera coefficients were considered as general indices for toxicity” (Ling et al., 2013, p. 131). Comparing with the above-reviewed two articles with Jetti et al. (2014), it can be observed that in this article titled, “Neuroprotective effect of Ascorbic acid and Ginkgo biloba against Fluoride caused Neurotoxicity”, the authors have used the present indefinite, present perfect continuous tense in order to present the article before the audience, as they state ― “With this background the present study was undertaken to investigate the structural changes in the various regions of the brain following fluoride exposure, to investigate the protective effect of ascorbic acid and Ginkgo biloba on the structural changes caused by fluoride exposure” (Jetti et al., 2014, p. 32). Read the full article

[ebelal56-blog]

Humpback Whales Are Gentle Giants Of The Ocean World

The humpback whale, a creature of immense grace and power, captures the imagination of those who are fortunate enough to witness its majesty. With their long pectoral fins that stretch like wings and their acrobatic displays that seem to defy gravity, these gentle giants embody the spirit of the ocean. Their scientific name, Megaptera novaeangliae, translates to "big-winged New Englander," a nod to the region where they were first studied. But their story transcends geography, echoing across the vastness of the world's oceans. Humpback whales are renowned for their remarkable migrations, traveling thousands of miles each year between feeding and breeding grounds. In the summer months, they feast in nutrient-rich cold waters, where krill and small fish abound. Their feeding technique, known as bubble-net feeding, showcases their intelligence and cooperation. A group of humpbacks will work together, creating a spiral of bubbles that corrals their prey into a tight ball. With synchronized precision, they lunge through the surface, mouths agape, capturing their meal in a spectacular display of teamwork. This behavior not only highlights their social nature but also their adaptability, as they have been observed using different hunting strategies depending on the availability of food. As winter approaches, these magnificent creatures embark on a journey to warmer waters, where they breed and give birth. The migration can cover distances of up to 16,000 miles, making it one of the longest migrations of any mammal. Along the way, they face numerous challenges, from navigating treacherous waters to avoiding predators and human-made obstacles. Yet, despite these hazards, humpbacks are resilient, their instinctual drive guiding them through the vast blue expanse. One of the most captivating aspects of humpback whales is their song. Male humpbacks are known for their complex vocalizations, which can last for hours and travel great distances underwater. These songs are not mere sounds; they are a form of communication, a way for males to attract females and assert their presence. The melodies change over time, evolving with each season, creating a dynamic auditory tapestry that resonates through the ocean. Researchers have studied these songs extensively, uncovering patterns and structures that hint at a rich cultural life beneath the waves. Each population has its own distinct song, suggesting that humpbacks may have regional dialects, further emphasizing the complexity of their social interactions.

[rayiehome]

The Ultimate Guide to Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Benefits, Sources, and How to Optimize Your Intake

BEST OMEGA3 PRODUCT NOW ON AMAZON

Omega-3 fatty acids are among the most studied and celebrated nutrients in the world of health and wellness. From boosting heart health to sharpening brain function, these essential fats are non-negotiable for optimal well-being. But what exactly are omega-3s, how do they work, and how can you ensure you’re getting enough? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the science, benefits, and practical strategies to harness the power of omega-3s—whether through diet, supplements, or a mix of both.

What Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?

Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs) that serve as building blocks for cell membranes, hormones, and signaling molecules. Unlike saturated fats, which are linked to heart disease, omega-3s are anti-inflammatory and critical for bodily functions. Since the body can’t produce them on its own, they must come from food or supplements.

The 3 Key Types of Omega-3s

EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid): Found in fatty fish, EPA reduces inflammation, supports cardiovascular health, and may ease joint pain.

DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid): Vital for brain development and vision, DHA is concentrated in the brain and retina.

ALA (Alpha-Linolenic Acid): A plant-based omega-3 in flaxseeds and walnuts, ALA converts minimally to EPA and DHA (just 5–10%).

Top Health Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

1. Heart Health: Your Cardiovascular Shield

Omega-3s are proven to lower triglycerides, reduce blood pressure, and prevent plaque buildup in arteries. A landmark study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that consuming 850 mg/day of EPA and DHA slashes stroke risk by 28% and heart failure by 8%. For optimal results, pair omega-3s with natural vitamin E to enhance absorption.

Tip: Aim for 2–3 servings of fatty fish (like salmon or mackerel) weekly.

2. Brain Power: Fuel for Your Mind

DHA makes up 30% of brain fat, crucial for memory, focus, and mood. Studies show omega-3s can delay dementia onset and reduce Alzheimer’s-related plaque. Pregnant women are advised to prioritize DHA for fetal brain development.

Example: A 2020 meta-analysis linked omega-3 supplementation to a 20% lower risk of cognitive decline in older adults.

3. Joint and Muscle Health: Move with Ease

Omega-3s combat inflammation in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. A Nutrition Journal study found that participants taking fish oil reported 30% less joint pain and improved mobility. Athletes also benefit: omega-3s reduce post-exercise soreness by lowering pro-inflammatory cytokines.

4. Vision Protection: See Clearly

DHA is a major component of the retina. Diets rich in omega-3s lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness.

5. Mental Health: Lift Your Mood

Omega-3s increase serotonin production, easing depression and anxiety. A Molecular Psychiatry review noted that EPA supplementation significantly reduced depressive symptoms, especially in postpartum women.

Best Sources of Omega-3s

Marine Sources (EPA/DHA)

Fatty fish: Salmon, mackerel, sardines (1,000–2,000 mg per 3-ounce serving)

Algae oil: Vegan-friendly DHA source (200–300 mg per capsule)

Plant Sources (ALA)

Flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts (2,500 mg ALA per tablespoon of flaxseed oil)

Supplements

Fish oil: Look for 1,000 mg combined EPA/DHA daily.

Krill oil: Better absorbed due to phospholipid structure.

Algae oil: Ideal for vegans (check for 300+ mg DHA per dose).

Pro Tip: Choose supplements in triglyceride form (not ethyl ester) for 70% better absorption.

How Much Omega-3 Do You Need?

Population

Daily Recommendation

Adults

250–500 mg EPA/DHA

Pregnant Women

500–1,000 mg DHA

Heart Health

1,000–4,000 mg EPA/DHA

Note: The FDA caps safe intake at 3,000 mg/day unless supervised by a doctor.

The Omega-3 Index: Are You Deficient?

The omega-3 index measures EPA/DHA in red blood cells. Optimal levels (8–12%) correlate with:

35% lower risk of heart disease

50% reduced Alzheimer’s risk

Most people fall short due to low fish intake. Test kits are available online, or ask your doctor for a blood test.

Omega-3 Controversies and Considerations

The Omega-6 Problem

Modern diets skew heavily toward omega-6 fats (found in vegetable oils and processed foods), creating a 10:1 to 30:1 ratio with omega-3s. This imbalance fuels inflammation. Fix it by:

Cutting processed snacks

Using olive oil instead of soybean oil

Eating more fatty fish

Supplement Risks

Atrial fibrillation: High doses (4,000+ mg/day) may increase risk in heart patients. Stick to 1,000–2,000 mg unless advised otherwise.

Oxidation: Store fish oil in the fridge and check for rancidity (fishy burps = red flag).

Vegan Omega-3 Hacks

Plant-based diets often lack EPA/DHA. Boost levels by:

Taking algae oil supplements (200–300 mg DHA daily).

Pairing ALA-rich foods (walnuts, flaxseeds) with vitamin C (bell peppers, citrus) to enhance conversion.

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Final Takeaway

Omega-3 fatty acids are a cornerstone of long-term health. Prioritize fatty fish, consider supplements if needed, and monitor your omega-3 index to stay in the optimal range. Whether you’re protecting your heart, sharpening your mind, or easing joint pain, these mighty fats deliver transformative benefits.

[misanthropemom]

More harping about Banks and overdraft fees:

They have started selling the threat of an overdraft as a thing that they don't do to people. That is because it is illegal. They are not "looking out for the little guy", they are not giving you some wiggle room, they are trying to use any strategy they can come up with to trick you into making a mistake that will cost you lots of money.

Commercial Banks are like whales, and all the small people who keep their money in those Banks are like krill, and like whales they just need to scoop up enough of it to add up to thousands and thousands and millions of dollars. Dicks. Don't fall for it.

[nuadox]

Tool-making humpback whales: New study reveals complex bubble-net hunting techniques critical for survival

- By Nuadox Crew -

A new study published in Royal Society Open Science uncovers that humpback whales are among the few animals that both create and use tools, adding them to a rare group of species with this capability.

Previously known for their use of "bubble-nets" to hunt, these whales have now been observed manipulating these nets in sophisticated ways to maximize their food intake in Alaska. The research, conducted by the Marine Mammal Research Program (MMRP) at the University of Hawaiʻi and the Alaska Whale Foundation (AWF), demonstrates that solitary humpback whales craft complex bubble patterns, forming nets with internal rings to trap krill, tiny shrimp-like creatures. By controlling details like the number, size, and depth of the rings, whales can capture up to seven times more prey in a single dive without expending extra energy.

The study employed advanced research tools, including drones and non-invasive suction-cup tags, to monitor the whales' movements both above and below water. This research was challenging due to the remote location in Southeast Alaska and the difficulty of studying marine mammals, but the collaboration with AWF was crucial to the study's success.

Understanding these unique foraging behaviors is vital for conservation, as the whales’ survival depends on their ability to capture enough food during summer and fall in Alaska. The insights gained from this research could improve targeted conservation strategies, particularly in the protection of critical feeding grounds. As humpback whales face threats from habitat degradation, climate change, and pollution, their behavioral flexibility and ingenuity may be key to their survival in changing ocean environments. This study opens the door for further exploration of humpback whale behaviors, offering a richer understanding of their energetic needs and adaptability.

Image: Infographic illustrating the features of the bubble-net: Humpback whales can adjust the number of rings in the net and the distance between bubbles in the inner and outer rings to effectively concentrate prey and prevent their escape. Credit: Marine Mammal Research Program, UHM/ SOEST.

Read more at University of Hawaii at Manoa/SciTechDaily

Scientific paper: “Solitary humpback whales manufacture bubble-nets as tools to increase prey intake” by A. Szabo, L. Bejder, H. Warick, M. van Aswegen, A. S. Friedlaender, J. Goldbogen, J. M. Kendall-Bar, E. M. Leunissen, M. Angot and W. T. Gough, 1 August 2024, Royal Society Open Science.

DOI: 10.1098/rsos.240328

Other recent news

Eco-Friendly Cooling: A new cooling device developed by HKUST has shattered performance records, achieving a 75 K temperature lift.

AI in Healthcare: An AI system named AINU has been developed to detect cancer and viral infections with nanoscale precision.

Health: Research from Korea indicates that SGLT-2 inhibitors, a class of diabetes drugs, may also help in battling dementia.

[teapartycrasher]

As a cosmic horror reader I understand The fear and fascination of large and extreme life from outer space, but I feel like evolution on our own planet has shown that being a gigantic monster is not a sustainable strategy. The legacy of the dinosaurs survived into the present world by shrinking and becoming the modern avians, specializing in about 10,000 different ways to eat nuts or small bugs. The largest animal on Earth, the blue whale, satisfies its nutritional needs by filter feeding through clouds of krill for 4 months and then spends the rest of the year living off of fat stores.

Basically what I'm saying is that if Cthulhu were real he would probably just eat bugs that feed off of algae and sleep 10 months out of the year to conserve his calories

[skretting2024]

Optimizing Murrel Nutrition: A Guide for Farmers and Aquafeed Producers

The murrel, sometimes called the snakehead fish, is becoming more and more common in aquaculture because of its strong character and high market value. Comprehending the eating patterns and nutritional needs of murrel is essential for farmers to optimize development, well-being, and financial gains.

Food Specifications for Murrel Fish that are carnivores and have a huge appetite are murrels. They mostly eat smaller fish, frogs, insects, and crustaceans in the wild. As they get bigger, their eating patterns alter: - In the fry stage, newly hatched murrels consume small aquatic insects and zooplankton. - Stage of fingerlings: As they get bigger, they move on to larger prey, such as shrimp and small fish. - Stage adult: Once they reach adulthood, murrels become opportunistic predators, eating a wide range of prey such as fish, amphibians, and even small animals or birds that fall into the water.

Nutritional Requirement A balanced diet that satisfies their unique nutritional requirements is necessary for murrel to flourish in aquaculture settings: - Protein: Because they are carnivores, murrels need a lot of protein. For optimum growth, their diets must contain 40–45% crude protein. - Lipids: For energy and necessary fatty acids, murrel need to consume 10-12% of their diet in lipids. - Carbs: Although they are not necessary, they can be added in small amounts(15–25%), freeing up protein for development. - Minerals and vitamins: A full range of minerals and vitamins is required for healthy development, immunological response, and overall well-being in Murrel Nutrition. Aquafeed Optimization for Murrel The following should be taken into account by farmers and aquafeed producers in order to achieve these nutritional requirements: - High-quality protein sources: To reach the required protein content, mix fish meal, poultry by-product meal, and plant-based proteins such as soybean meal. - Necessary amino acids: Make sure the feed has the proper amounts of each essential amino acid, especially lysine, methionine, and threonine. - Lipid sources: To supply vital fatty acids and energy, include fish oil and vegetable oils. - Complete vitamin and mineral premixes: To avoid deficiencies, add these supplements. - Agents: Use natural stimulants such as fish or krill to increase appetite and absorption. Skretting's Path to Murrel Nutrition Skretting, a global aquafeed manufacturer, has developed a diet designed to meet the nutritional requirements of murrel. Its research strategy focuses on: 1. Making the most of protein-to-energy ratios during the life cycle of a murrel. 2. Including sustainable and alternate sources of protein without compromising growth performance. 3. Improving feed digestibility to boost absorption of nutrients and cut down on waste. 4. Preparing wholesome meals that support immune system health and stress tolerance Feeding Techniques for Farmers In order to optimize the advantages of premium aquafeed, producers had to employ efficient feeding methods: Feeding frequency: Provide several little meals instead of one or two substantial feedings over the day. Monitoring and adjusting: Keep a close eye on feeding behavior and modify feeds according to fish appetite, size, and water temperature. Feed management: To preserve nutritional quality and avoid contamination, use appropriate feed storage practices. Water quality: Keep the parameters as good as possible because low quality might have an impact on feed intake and nutrient usage. In summary Successful aquaculture requires an understanding of murrel eating behavior and nutritional needs. Farmers may encourage healthy development, enhance feed conversion ratios, and eventually boost profitability by feeding their animals a well-balanced diet tailored to their individual needs. Working along with trustworthy aquafeed manufacturers like Skretting may assist in guaranteeing that murrel have the nourishment they require to flourish in aquaculture environments. Ongoing nutritional research and development for murrels will be essential to enhancing murrel feed formulations and farming techniques as the aquaculture sector develops. Farmers can maintain the healthy growth of this lucrative aquaculture species and maximize murrel production by keeping up with the newest developments in aquafeed technology.