A new blog series I'm doing - a monthly roundup of positive ocean & marine biology news - from conservation wins, stories of hope, to weird and wonderful discoveries. Why? Because there's still plenty of good making waves out there!
Good Tides Only: October 2025
This month, we saw progress all across the planet - from Indigenous-led conservation efforts creating the world’s first multi-nation Ocean Reserve in the Southern Pacific Ocean, to new protections for the ocean’s mysterious twilight zone. Beavers are returning to Portugal’s rivers, Bamboo Sharks are helping coral reefs recover in Thailand, and Green Sea Turtles are finally bouncing back from the brink of extinction. Spain has also expanded its marine protected areas, and ocean researchers have even discovered 30 new deep-sea species - including a carnivorous “death-ball” sponge (just in time for Halloween).
Let’s dive in! 🌊✨
World's First Indigenous-led Ocean Reserve a Step Closer to Reality
The world’s first Indigenous-led marine protected area is one step closer to reality! The Melanesian Ocean Reserve will unite traditional knowledge and modern science to safeguard six million square kilometers of ocean across the Pacific - all governed by Indigenous leadership.
Protecting the Ocean’s Twilight Zone
Global conservationists have taken the first big step to protect the ocean’s mysterious “twilight zone” - the mesopelagic layer deep beneath the waves. A new motion calls for caution and science-based care before mining or fishing in these crucial ecosystems.
Beavers Return to Portugal
For the first time in over 500 years, beavers have returned to Portugal! Their comeback is helping restore rivers, wetlands, and entire ecosystems - a hopeful sign of nature’s resilience and the power of rewilding.
Green Sea Turtles Bounce Back!
A huge conservation win: green sea turtles are no longer classified as endangered! Decades of global protection efforts have paid off, moving the species to “least concern” on the IUCN Red List for the first time in decades.
Shark Reef Restoration in Thailand
Bamboo sharks are helping bring coral reefs back to life in Thailand’s Andaman Sea! Conservationists are breeding and releasing these gentle predators to naturally restore balance and boost reef health - with over 200 sharks already thriving.
Spain Expands Marine Protection
Spain just created six new marine protected areas, adding over 17,000 km² of safeguarded ocean! This milestone brings the country closer to protecting 25% of its waters by 2025 - a major leap for marine biodiversity.
Spooky Science: New Deep-Sea Discoveries
Just in time for Halloween, scientists discovered 30 new deep-sea species - including a carnivorous “death-ball” sponge and eerie “zombie worms.” Proof that the ocean still holds some wild (and wonderfully weird) surprises.
