Posted on the Voice of America web site

Marine Scientists Find Unknown Sea Creatures

By Paul Sisco

Giant sea spiders, ancient species of bacteria and new starfish living in communities are just some of hundreds of sea creatures that have been discovered by scientists conducting decade-long census of sea life.

Researchers in more than 80 nations are participating in the effort which is funded by governments, foundations and corporations.  

Scientists presented some of their findings at recent conference as the project nears its completion.  

The New York Times featured the editorial, “The Oceans’ Shifting Balance” on December 12th. The editorial focused on how humans are having such an adverse effect on our ocean and how little changes will make great impacts.

The Oceans’ Shifting Balance

New York Times Editorial - December 12, 2008

Most of us understand that what we give off in the form of exhaust — from cars and manufacturing and energy production and burning forests — makes its way into the atmosphere, and is responsible for changes in the global climate. What is less familiar is the fact that the oceans are absorbing as much as a third of the carbon dioxide being emitted into the atmosphere.