A Colony of Seabird Creates "Halo" to Mark Areas with Fewer Fish Population

According to a new study, a large seabird population on Ascension Island creates a "halo" in areas which fewer fish thrive. Tens of thousands of seabirds of various kinds live on Ascension, a UK Overseas Territory, and their food includes flying fish.

The University of Exeter and the Ascension Island Government have discovered lower flying fish populations up to 150 kilometers (about 90 miles) away from the island, which can only be explained by seabird feeding.

Seabirds (sometimes referred to as marine birds) are birds adapted to live in the sea. While seabirds have a wide range of lifestyles, behaviors, and physiology, they often show dramatic convergent evolution due to similar environmental challenges and food niches. The earliest seabirds appeared during the Cretaceous, while contemporary seabird groups emerged during the Paleogene.

Diet and Physiology

Seabirds, on average, live longer, reproduce later, and have fewer young than other birds, but they devote a lot of time to their offspring. Most species lay their eggs in colonies that range from a few dozen to millions of birds. Many species are known for their extensive yearly migrations, including crossing the equator or even circumnavigating the globe. They eat both above and below the water's surface, and they even eat each other. Seabirds can be highly pelagic, coastal, or spend part of the year totally away from the water.

Living with Humans

These marine birds and humans have a long history together: they have fed hunters, guided fisherman to fishing grounds, and guided sailors to shore. Unfortunately, many species are presently endangered due to human actions, such as oil spills, getting caught in nets, climate change, and extreme weather. The creation of animal refuges and changes to fishing practices are examples of conservation initiatives.

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