Mexico bans dolphin shows in historic win for animal welfare

In a unanimous 99–0 vote, Mexico has banned dolphin shows and captive breeding of marine mammals. Within 18 months, dolphinariums must shut down and relocate dolphins to seaside sanctuaries. Known as the “Ley Mincho,” the law is named after a dolphin injured during a performance, and positions Mexico among the world leaders in ending captivity for whales and dolphins. (Source: Mexican Senate)

Billions of sea stars lost… but hope remains!

Researchers have identified Vibrio pectenicida as the cause of Sea Star Wasting Disease. This outbreak has affected over 20 species and nearly wiped out sunflower sea stars along the US Pacific coast since 2013. Thanks to this discovery, conservation groups are now breeding Sunflower Stars in captivity and preparing to reintroduce them, helping restore this vital predator and the kelp forests it supports. (Source: Mongabay)

Corals can pass heat resistance to their offspring

Some coral species—especially rice corals—can pass on their ability to resist heat. Their offspring are better equipped to handle thermal stress, a key factor in coral bleaching. This discovery suggests an epigenetic mechanism that may allow corals to adapt to warming oceans, opening possibilities for strengthening reef resilience through selective breeding.(Source: Phys.org)

Protected kelp forests bounce back faster

A 40-year study shows kelp forests inside marine protected areas (MPAs) recover faster from marine heatwaves than unprotected ones. By safeguarding predators, MPAs help control sea urchins and keep ecosystems in balance—proof that strong protection makes the ocean more resilient. (Source: British Ecological Society)

Meet Mobula yarae: a new manta ray discovered!

Scientists have joyfully announced the discovery of a brand new species of manta ray called Mobula yarae. This exciting find marks it as the third known manta ray species in the world. The species is lovingly named after Yara, a mystical mermaid-like spirit from Brazilian mythology. (Source: Smithsonian Mag)

This season in the Med, the crew of our vessel the Sea Eagle has:

-> Pulled up over 25,000 illegal octopus traps
-> Removed more than 200,000 meters of deadly line
-> Saved countless octopuses from a cruel fate

These efforts give octopus populations a fighting chance to survive in one of the most overfished seas in the world.

Protect our oceans with Sea Shepherd Global

Learn, be inspired, and share these stories widely. Awareness fuels action, and action is what keeps the ocean alive!