The 2023 California Estuarine Research Society (CAERS) Conference occurred in Costa Mesa, CA from April 21-22, 2023. USC Sea Grant was a proud sponsor and participant in the event, including supporting the attendance of four students from undergraduate and graduate schools across Northern and Southern California and supporting the plenary speaker, Dr. Octavio Aburto.

Students in the UC San Diego California Students Public Interest Research Group Chapter gathered on March 2 to rally and spread awareness for increasing ocean protection within California. The advocates gathered on campus near the Sun God statue to bid farewell to fellow colleagues heading to Sacramento the following day for an environmental lobbying conference.

An underwater photographer has captured what can only be described as an undersea tornado of swirling fish seen mesmerizing divers off Mexico's coast.

Thousands of fish banded together to produce the churning mass of eyes, mouths and fins on the bottom of the Sea of Cortez’s Cabo Pulmo National Park in what photographer and scientist Octavio Aburto calls a natural though extremely rare phenomenon.

Scientists at the University of California, San Diego are studying sediments to uncover insights into carbon storage. Sedimentary environments, such as ocean floors and lake beds, have the potential to store significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2). By analyzing sediment cores from various locations, researchers aim to understand the processes involved in carbon storage and improve carbon capture and storage (CCS) strategies. The findings could contribute to more effective approaches for mitigating climate change and developing sustainable carbon sinks.

State leaders gathered in La Jolla to discuss the success of a decade of marine protection efforts. The article showcases Aburto's expertise and contributions to the field, emphasizing his research on marine conservation and the importance of preserving marine ecosystems. As a renowned expert, Aburto's insights and findings are instrumental in shaping policies and strategies for marine protection. The article underlines his invaluable role in advancing our understanding of marine ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices for a healthier ocean environment.

The 100,000-year-old forest shows that seas have been dozens of feet higher than today, a warning of how much they could rise with climate change.

In an article published in Phys Org by UCSD, the impact of a study co-authored by Octavio Aburto-Oropeza is revealed. Inland, along the banks of the San Pedro Martir River, and over a hundred miles away from the coastline and ocean, there is a mangrove ecosystem. The work of a variety of scientists, many from different disciplines, revealed the secrets of this surprising "lost world." It was found to be an ancient coastal lagoon ecosystem once located along the coasts of the Gulf of Mexico over 100,000 years ago, during the last interglacial period. It reveals changes that occurred in the Mexican tropics during this time period and thus gives us a snapshot of our probable future as we move toward a world with melting ice caps, warmer temperatures, and rising sea levels. This research shows the importance of science communication, of working together, and demonstrates the real world conservation impact that science can have. This area was once almost deforested, and it remains to be threatened, but this study reveals the necessity of its future protection by Tabasco and Mexico's environmental administrations and acts as a warning of the severe impact that will be faced by climate change if we don't take action now.

The surprising value of the country’s dive tourism industry gives another reason to protect its marine ecosystems.

The gulf’s sardine fishery has collapsed four times in the past 30 years, and researchers in California worry about the future of the sardine industry.

This captivating article explores the challenges faced by traditional fishermen in an evolving ocean environment. It delves into the impacts of climate change, overfishing, pollution, and shifting marine ecosystems on the livelihoods of these fishermen who rely on time-honored fishing techniques and knowledge. It provides a thought-provoking narrative that sheds light on the struggles encountered by these fishermen as they navigate a rapidly changing ocean. This insightful piece offers valuable insights for researchers at the Aburto Lab as they study marine ecosystems and work towards sustainable solutions for the future.

Octavio Aburto and other Mexican ecologists want to preserve the pristine reefs of the Isla Marías penal colony.

Cuba’s sustainable farming practices could provide a recipe for restoring struggling coral reefs around the world.