species identification
species identification on World Data Ocean: a running collection of 5 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on species identification in some way — the news, the analysis, the deep dives, and the occasional surprise find. A Global Hub for Ocean Intelligence 4 World Data Ocean is a centralized digital platform where researchers, scientists, and ocean enthusiasts converge to explore, analyze, and… New stories are added to this page as we find them, so check back if you want to keep up with what is happening around species identification, or subscribe to the RSS feed to get them as soon as they are published. Browse the collection below, or head back to the homepage to see everything World Data Ocean is covering right now.
Machine learning, eDNA and citizen science in monitoring and assessing biodiversity and invasive alien species at sea
Emerging technologies are revolutionizing marine biodiversity and invasive alien species monitoring. This research, presented at a recent summer school, details the integration of machine learning, citizen science, and environmental DNA (eDNA) alongside remote sensing and drones. Machine learning, utilizing frameworks like Essential Biodiversity Variables (EBVs), enables efficient species identification and global data synthesis. Initiatives like iNaturalist exemplify the power of citizen science combined with AI validation.
What kind of fish(?) is this? North shore Massachusetts
This intriguing specimen, discovered in the rocky intertidal zone off the North Shore of Massachusetts, presents a fascinating identification challenge. While initial searches suggested a flounder, the observed size and morphology warrant further investigation. This small, palm-sized fish represents a valuable opportunity to expand our ocean intelligence—a sentiment echoed in discussions like those surrounding sea creature identification off Ustica Island, as detailed in a related article. We invite expert analysis to definitively classify this unique find and contribute to a broader understanding of coastal biodiversity.
Galapagos Fur Seal or Sea Lion (Ecuador)?
The Galapagos fur seal ( *Arctocephalus galapagoensis*) is a unique species endemic to the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. Often confused with sea lions, fur seals are smaller and possess denser fur, an adaptation for the cooler waters they inhabit. Distinguishing features include a smaller head relative to body size and a less boisterous demeanor compared to their sea lion counterparts. Identifying these animals can be tricky, as highlighted in similar identification requests—like our recent discussion on marine wildlife in Costa Rica.
I found what ever this is in The Cook Islands, Rarotonga
A fascinating discovery has been reported from Rarotonga, Cook Islands—a specimen resembling the Spanish Dancer Sea Slug nudibranch, though unfortunately appearing deceased. /u/Jackasaurus_Rex17’s observation sparks curiosity, and we're eager to assist in identification. The possibility of a four-legged sea star, a notably rare occurrence, adds further intrigue to this find. For those interested in unique marine life, our article on the Solenostomus snuffleupagus, a similarly intriguing discovery, offers further exploration of oceanic biodiversity.
![[ID] Sharks in Raja Ampat](https://preview.redd.it/5p6gp62jzvbh1.jpeg?width=640&crop=smart&auto=webp&s=e43cd306bf5b86d657fca7fe1dab3d0865d50099)
[ID] Sharks in Raja Ampat
A fascinating observation from Raja Ampat highlights the complex interactions within marine ecosystems. A snorkeler documented an encounter with four small sharks exhibiting behavior suggestive of following dolphins or sailfish. Initial identification leaned toward grey reef sharks, though the absence of a dorsal fin edge distinguishes them. Discussion centers on whether these are silvertip sharks. This sighting underscores the importance of continued ocean observation and data collection, similar to our recent exploration of unidentified marine life found in Maceió, Brazil.