This research develops electrostatic artificial muscles for underwater robots inspired by the movement of fish and sharks. Unlike noisy propeller-driven systems, these soft actuators enable quieter, more efficient swimming that minimises disturbance to marine ecosystems, offering a promising alternative for environmental monitoring, reef surveys, and underwater infrastructure inspection.
This research investigates the diversity and behaviour of zooplankton around Rangitāhua, Aotearoa New Zealand. By combining microscopy and underwater acoustics, it identifies species and tracks their daily vertical migrations. The findings will improve understanding of marine ecosystems, climate change impacts, and support Ngāti Kuri's stewardship of this culturally significant region.
This research examines how different sea turtle species uniquely shape marine ecosystems through their feeding behaviors. Studying green, loggerhead, and Kemp’s ridley turtles along Florida’s Gulf Coast, the work reveals species-specific ecological functions involving seagrass grazing, sediment mixing, and food web interactions that contribute to ecosystem resilience and coastal conservation.
This research reveals how deep-sea squid evolved camera-type eyes tuned to bioluminescent light. The giant squid Taningia has visual pigments matched to its own yellow-green glow, allowing long-distance communication while staying hidden from predators. Understanding squid visual sensitivity can guide safer deep-sea exploration using lighting that avoids harming marine animals.