Ocean Science Radio is a joint project between Andrew Kornblatt, founder and host of the Online Ocean Symposium, and Naomi Frances Farabaugh of FIU. Previous co-host was Samantha Wishnak, Digital Media Coordinator at Ocean Exploration Trust. The program will focus on and highlight the latest and greatest ocean science stories that the world has to offer.
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May 29, 202636 min
One Team. One Chance. Diving for What Remains.
Featuring Alex Rose, Science Editor, Ocean Geographic Magazine & Co-Founder, Sea Americas
Alex Rose has been part of the Ocean Science Radio family for nearly a decade — you may remember her reporting live from MACNA, the Marine Aquarium Conference of North America, back in 2016. Today she's back, this time in the guest chair, with something considerably bigger on the horizon.
Alex is the Science Editor of Ocean Geographic Magazine, founder of ocean conservation company Blue Ring, an Explorers Club Fellow, a professional violinist, and now co-host and producer of Sea Americas — a cinematic expedition documentary series following the world's largest all-female dive team as they document the most threatened marine sanctuaries across the Americas.
In this conversation, Andrew and Dr. Frances Farabaugh sit down with Alex to talk about what it means to dive with purpose in a moment of accelerating loss — from the functionally extinct reef-building corals of the Florida Keys, to the surprisingly intact reefs of Cuba, to the political headwinds threatening the protected waters these stories depend on. They also dig into the Sea Americas Seed & Spark crowdfunding campaign, the conservation model behind Blue Ring, and what it actually feels like to cry underwater while trying to document a dying reef.
Hope, Alex reminds us, needs to be a verb. Let's actively hope.
Links:
Sea Americas: seaamericas.com
Blue Ring: bluering.blue
Ocean Geographic: ogsociety.org
Mission Blue (Netflix)
Last episode featuring Alex Rose - https://oceanscienceradio.simplecast.com/episodes/macna
March 31, 202645 min
Mining the Deep - Inside the Case for Seabed Extraction
Guest: Oliver Gunasekara, CEO & Co-Founder, Impossible Metals
Website: impossiblemetals.com
Eureka Collection System animation: https://impossiblemetals.com/blog/next-generation-eureka-collection-system-animation-now-available/
Context & Further Reading:
ISA (International Seabed Authority): isa.int
DISCOL experiment — long-term seafloor disturbance study: https://www.discol.de/index.html
IEA Critical Minerals Report (recycling projections): https://www.iea.org/reports/global-critical-minerals-outlook-2025
Our previous episode: Trump Administration Ocean Policy Forum with Dr. Andrew Thaler, Dr. Diva Amon, and Angelo Villagomez
Key Terms:
Polymetallic nodules: Mineral-rich concretions found on the deep seafloor, taking millions of years to form
UNCLOS: United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea
Common Heritage of Mankind: Legal principle that certain global resources belong to all of humanity
ISA: International Seabed Authority — the UN body governing deep seabed mining in international waters
AUV: Autonomous Underwater Vehicle
BGR: German Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources (Bundesanstalt für Geowissenschaften und Rohstoffe)
March 1, 202627 min
Ocean Lovin - Free Baby-Making - Walking Sharks Break the Rules of Reproduction
Episode Description
Making babies is expensive. For pretty much every species on the planet, reproduction is supposed to be the ultimate metabolic investment—a massive energy drain that can make organisms vulnerable to stress, predators, and environmental change. Except there's a small shark walking around the Great Barrier Reef that apparently didn't get the memo.
In this episode of our Ocean Lovin' series, we explore groundbreaking research from James Cook University that's forcing scientists to completely rethink what they know about the costs of reproduction. Epaulette sharks—those amazing little "walking sharks" that can literally stroll across reef flats on their fins—can produce complex egg cases with developing embryos inside without any measurable increase in energy use. Zero. Zilch. Nada. It's like building a house without buying any extra lumber.
Join hosts Andrew Kornblatt and Dr. Frances Farabaugh, along with returning guest co-host Dr. Skylar Bayer, as we dive into this surprising discovery with Professor Jodie Rummer from James Cook University. We'll explore how her team measured something no one had measured before—the metabolic cost of egg-laying in sharks—and what they found challenges fundamental assumptions about reproduction in the ocean.
We'll learn about the "pay as you go" hypothesis, discover why a tiny organ might be working overtime without changing the whole shark's energy budget, and explore what this means for sharks facing climate change. From the controlled environment of the lab to wild populations scattered across the Great Barrier Reef, this research reveals that evolution has equipped some species with surprising tools for survival that we're only beginning to understand.
Content Advisory: This Ocean Lovin' episode deals with mature subjects related to marine reproduction. Please listen to the full episode before sharing with younger audiences.
Featured Guest
Professor Jodie Rummer
Professor of Marine Biology, James Cook University, Australia
Conservation physiologist specializing in sharks and coral reef fishes
Leads shark physiology research team at JCU's Marine and Aquaculture Research Facility
Maintains a breeding colony of epaulette sharks for multi-generational research
Expert in how marine organisms cope with climate change stressors (temperature, ocean acidification, low oxygen)
Key Topics Covered
The Discovery
First direct measurement of metabolic costs of egg-laying in sharks
Completely flat metabolic rate across reproductive cycle—no energy spike
37 trials, nearly 200 eggs, almost 100 reproductive cycles
The Science
How scientists measure metabolic rate through oxygen uptake
The "pay as you go" hypothesis: income breeding vs. stored energy
The nidamental gland paradox: tiny organ, massive output
Blood chemistry and hormone stability during reproduction
Epaulette Shark Biology
One of nine "walking shark" species with modified pectoral fins
Can survive zero oxygen conditions for several hours
Endemic to Great Barrier Reef, living in extreme reef flat environments
Produce two eggs every ~19 days during breeding season
Four-month embryonic development period
Climate Change Implications
Challenging the assumption that "reproduction will be the first thing to go" under stress
Potential resilience in warming oceans—but limits unknown
Effects of elevated temperatures on embryo development and hatchling size
Importance of protecting critical habitats where adaptations can function
Future Research Directions
Testing upper limits of reproductive efficiency under warming
Local adaptation across Great Barrier Reef populations
Immune function in mothers and hatchlings under stress
Applications to other shark species and conservation strategies
Featured Research
Primary Study: Wheeler, C.R., Awruch, C.A., Mandelman, J.W., & Rummer, J.L. (2025). "Assessing the metabolic and physiological costs of oviparity in the epaulette shark (Hemiscyllium ocellatum)." Biology Open, 14(11). DOI: 10.1242/bio.062076
Lead Author: Dr. Carolyn Wheeler (recent JCU PhD graduate)
Resources & Links
Research Institution:
James Cook University Marine and Aquaculture Research Facility, Townsville, Australia
JCU Marine Biology
Conservation Organizations:
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority
IUCN Shark Specialist Group
Press Coverage:
JCU News Release
ScienceDaily Article
Episode Credits
Hosts:
Andrew Kornblatt - Climate and Ocean Communications Specialist, Producer
Dr. Frances Farabaugh - Shark Ecologist, Aquanaut
Guest Co-Host:
Dr. Skylar Bayer - Marine Ecologist (Shellfish Population Dynamics, Fertilization Ecology, Science Communication)
Featured Guest:
Professor Jodie Rummer - James Cook University
February 3, 202628 min
Tending the Tides - Oregon's Mariculture Revolution
90% of seafood consumed on the Oregon coast is imported, while most Oregon-caught seafood gets exported. This week, we explore how that's changing.
We talk with Suzie O'Neill, Kaitlyn Rich, and Jon Bonkoski from Ecotrust, who just launched "Tending the Tides," a podcast about mariculture on the Oregon coast. Learn how oyster farmers became climate sentinels in 2007 when ocean acidification killed their larvae. Discover urchin divers using rock climbing techniques underwater in 50 pounds of lead, and how their catch feeds innovative closed-loop aquaculture systems growing seaweed and sea cucumbers.
From selective breeding programs creating climate-resilient oysters to kelp forests buffering acidification, this episode reveals how Oregon is building regenerative ocean farming that honors Indigenous stewardship, avoids parachute science, and redefines what sustainable food systems look like.
Featuring the Oregon Coastal Mariculture Collaborative's community-led approach to expanding "unfed aquaculture"—oysters and seaweed that grow without any inputs beyond what the ocean provides.
December 30, 202528 min
What We Don't Know About Deep-Sea Mining
What happens when an entire industry rushes forward before science can catch up? In this episode of Ocean Science Radio, we sit down with Dr. Andrew Thaler, deep-sea ecologist and CEO of Blackbeard Biologic, to explore his groundbreaking report for the Convention on Migratory Species that reveals exactly how much we don't know about deep-sea mining's impacts on whales, dolphins, sharks, turtles, and other highly migratory species.
While most deep-sea mining research has focused on the immediate destruction of seafloor ecosystems, Andrew's report exposes a more troubling reality: we have massive knowledge gaps about how mining operations—with their noise, sediment plumes, and habitat disruption—might affect species that travel thousands of miles across interconnected ocean basins. From sea turtles navigating by magnetic fields to whales relying on acoustic communication, these far-reaching impacts remain largely unstudied even as the industry accelerates toward commercial production.
The conversation takes a timely turn as we discuss the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management's controversial Request for Information for mining in U.S. waters off the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Andrew breaks down why this represents a significant shift from international deep-sea mining debates, and what it means that communities near the Mariana Trench—with only a 30-day comment period and no guaranteed revenue sharing—are being asked to accept an industry that science hasn't fully evaluated.
As the Trump administration pushes to fast-track deep-sea mining for critical minerals while international bodies like the CMS urge precaution, this episode asks the essential question: what's at stake when we mine what we haven't studied? Join us for a conversation that bridges cutting-edge marine science, environmental justice, and the real-world policy decisions happening right now in the deep ocean.
November 27, 202542 min
Protecting Half the Planet - The High Seas Treaty Comes Alive
After nearly two decades of negotiations, the world has finally agreed on a framework to protect the high seas - that vast expanse of ocean beyond any nation's control that covers nearly half our planet's surface. On January 17th, 2026, the BBNJ Agreement (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction), commonly known as the High Seas Treaty, officially enters into force, becoming international law.Join us as we explore this historic moment with two experts at the heart of the effort. Jeremy Raguain, who works with the Alliance of Small Island States, shares insights on Africa's leadership in the negotiations and what meaningful capacity building looks like for developing nations. Rebecca Hubbard, Director of the High Seas Alliance, takes us through the coalition-building journey from 2002 to today, explaining the treaty's four pillars: marine protected areas, equitable benefit-sharing from marine genetic resources, environmental impact assessments, and capacity building.This isn't just another international agreement - it's the missing piece that could finally allow us to protect 30% of the ocean by 2030, ensure that benefits from ocean resources flow equitably to all nations, and shift away from "parachute science" toward true partnerships. From small island nations reclaiming their identity as "big ocean states" to the complex work of enforcing protections in the world's most remote waters, this episode explores what becomes possible when the world comes together to protect what belongs to us all.Whether you live on a coast or in a landlocked country, half the oxygen you breathe comes from the ocean. Its health is humanity's health. Discover why this treaty matters for everyone, and what you can do to support its implementation.Featured Guests:Jeremy Raguain, AOSIS Fellowship Director & Ocean Governance SpecialistRebecca Hubbard, Director of the High Seas AllianceEpisode Length: 35-40 minutes
October 30, 202528 min
Art Meets Ocean - Inside Portland's Revolutionary Cartoon Aquarium
Episode DescriptionWhat happens when you combine marine biology expertise with immersive art? You get the world's only cartoon aquarium—and it's right here in Portland.Join us as we explore the Portland Aquarium, an innovative art installation that's reimagining ocean education. Artist Mike Bennett and marine biologist Chanel Hason have created an experience featuring over 100 hand-painted marine species across six biomes—with zero live animals and maximum imagination.Discover how this unique collaboration addresses real challenges in science communication: How do you show people a blue whale or giant squid when you can't keep them in captivity? How do you bring ocean education to communities without access to traditional aquariums? And how can art become a gateway to marine conservation?From the technical details of getting sea otter tails scientifically accurate to the emotional power of painted seagulls with flapping wings, Mike and Chanel share the story of transforming a vacant downtown Portland space into a hub of creativity, education, and community connection—complete with support for real conservation work through the Elakha Alliance's sea otter reintroduction efforts.Featured GuestsMike Bennett - Portland-based artist and creator of immersive educational installations including the Portland AquariumChanel Hason - Marine biologist and Director of Outreach & Community Relations at Elakha AllianceKey TopicsThe intersection of art and marine science educationAdvantages of artistic representations versus traditional aquariumsScientific accuracy in creative work (yes, sea otter tail length matters!)Bringing ocean education to landlocked communitiesCreating community spaces through immersive artSupporting marine conservation through creative collaborationThe Elakha Alliance's work to reintroduce sea otters to OregonEpisode HighlightsWhy Portland's cartoon aquarium features species you'd never see in a traditional aquarium—like blue whales and giant squidHow Mike's childhood visits to the Baltimore Aquarium inspired a career in immersive animal educationThe viral success of Mike's pandemic-era "A, B, Sea" installation that attracted 1,000+ visitors to his front yardChanel's emotional connection to seeing the first footage of a living giant squidHow the installation transformed a downtown corner from "graffiti and cigarette butts" to "sidewalk chalk and bubbles"The truth about blobfish: why they look so different at the surface versus the deep seaCreating animatronic seagulls and working with composer RAC to bring the installation to lifePlans for a portable version to bring ocean education to schools in landlocked statesMentioned in This EpisodeOrganizations:Elakha Alliance - Working to reintroduce sea otters to the Oregon coastBig Fish Lab at Oregon State UniversityImaginary Planet - Portland animation studioThe Portland AquariumLocation: Broadway & Alder, Downtown Portland, OregonOpen 7 days a weekInstagram: @theportlandaquariumGeneral admission: $14 | Children 2-12: $10 | Under 2: FreeComing Soon: Zoo Aquarium Podcast - Mike and Chanel's upcoming show answering kids' questions about animalsQuote of the Episode"It's the only cartoon aquarium in the world, which I think is really special. And there's a blue whale in the aquarium and some wild deep sea critters that couldn't be held in captivity no matter how you tried." - Chanel HasonWhy This MattersThe Portland Aquarium demonstrates how creative collaboration between artists and scientists can solve real problems in science communication and conservation outreach. By making ocean education accessible, affordable, and imaginative, Mike and Chanel are proving that wonder—and learning—can come in many forms.Ocean Science Radio brings you the latest, greatest, and sometimes deepest stories in the ocean. Hosted by Andrew Kornblatt and Dr. Frances Farabaugh.
September 30, 202516 min
Waste(d) on Ocean Science Radio
What happens after you flush? Most of us don't think about it—but maybe we should. In this eye-opening episode, we dive into one of the ocean's biggest but least discussed threats: wastewater pollution.Join us as we talk with Jos Hill, Program Director for The Nature Conservancy's Wastewater Pollution Program and creator of the groundbreaking podcast "waste(d)water." Jos reveals the shocking scale of this crisis: 80% of wastewater worldwide is inadequately treated, 58% of coral reefs are exposed to wastewater pollution, and wastewater accounts for a staggering 40% of coastal nutrient pollution—nearly as much as agriculture.Discover how even highly treated wastewater can devastate marine ecosystems, why coral disease outbreaks in the Florida Keys have been traced back to human gut pathogens, and how nutrient-rich wastewater is making coral reefs more vulnerable to marine heat waves and climate change.But this isn't just doom and gloom—Jos shares inspiring recovery stories from Kaneohe Bay in Hawaii and Tampa Bay in Florida, proving that when pollution is addressed, ecosystems can bounce back. Learn about innovative nature-based solutions, including treatment gardens that clean water while growing food for coastal communities.From the intersection of wastewater pollution and social justice to practical steps you can take in your own community, this conversation breaks the taboo around a topic that affects every person on the planet. As Jos reminds us: everyone goes to the toilet, so this issue is relevant to everyone.It's time to start talking about the dirty secret of ocean pollution—because we can't solve problems we won't discuss.Featured Guest: Jos Hill, Program Director, Wastewater Pollution Program, The Nature ConservancyLearn more: Check out the waste(d)water podcast and follow @wastedwaterpod wherever you listen to podcasts.
July 31, 202523 min
RHODY's Great Lakes Adventure - ROV Technology Meets Shipwreck Archaeology
Dive into the freshwater frontier of ocean exploration as we explore how a revolutionary compact ROV is transforming underwater archaeology in the Great Lakes. Join us for the incredible story of the first comprehensive survey of shipwrecks in Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary, where cutting-edge technology meets centuries-old maritime history.Discover how RHODY - a nimble, acrobatic underwater robot that can be transported in the back of a truck - recently surveyed 17 shipwrecks with unprecedented detail. From 3D photorealistic models created with gaming technology to students piloting sophisticated ROVs using Xbox controllers, this expedition is redefining what's possible in ocean exploration.Hear the thrilling tale of Susanna Maycut, a student who made maritime history during a midnight shift, discovering a previously unknown shipwreck while processing sonar data for the first time. Learn how this expedition democratized ocean exploration by prioritizing student involvement, connecting with 15 classrooms in real-time, and even enabling a paralyzed student to pilot the ROV remotely from his home.This episode showcases how modern ocean science is becoming more accessible, inclusive, and community-connected. From the spooky beauty of century-old shipwrecks preserved in Lake Ontario's cold waters to the practical applications of emergency response and archaeological documentation, RHODY represents the future of underwater exploration.Whether you're fascinated by maritime archaeology, excited about technological innovation, or inspired by student-led discovery, this episode proves that some of our most incredible adventures are waiting right in our own backyard waters.Guests:Adam Soule - Professor, University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Oceanography & Executive Director, NOAA Ocean Exploration Cooperative InstituteHolly Pettus - Project Manager, Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute & Deputy Expedition Leader, Lake Ontario Expedition
July 1, 202521 min
They Might Be Giants - The Ocean Viruses Bigger Than Bacteria
Forget everything you think you know about viruses. In the ocean, there are viral giants so large they were mistaken for bacteria for decades – and they're rewriting the rules of marine ecology.Join us as we explore the fascinating world of giant viruses with Benjamin Minch, a PhD student at the University of Miami who has discovered over 230 previously unknown viral genomes using a revolutionary computational tool called BEREN. These microscopic monsters can hijack photosynthesis, manipulate their hosts like puppet masters, and dramatically reshape ocean food webs.Giant viruses are up to 100 times larger than common viruses, with genomes rivaling those of bacteria. Some enhance their hosts' superpowers – boosting photosynthesis and metabolism – before turning infected cells into viral factories. Others cause victims to clump together and sink as marine snow, playing crucial roles in carbon sequestration and climate regulation.From the Baltic Sea's viral treasure trove to practical applications like predicting harmful algal blooms, this episode explores how invisible giants influence everything from ocean food webs to global nutrient cycles. Discover why the ocean's biggest players might also be its smallest.Links:BEREN tool: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2024.10.09.617401v1Ben's research publications: https://idsc.miami.edu/pegasus-powered-giant-virus-study-yields-publicly-shared-bioinformatics-tool/
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