Category: In the Media

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Who’s in this Ocean? Tracking Down Species on the Go Using Environmental DNA

The article details the development of a novel method for tracking marine species: the portable eDNA sequencing kit (FeDS), spearheaded by Dr. Cheryl Lewis Ames’s team from Tohoku University. The article explains how the FeDS kit makes the complex process of environmental DNA identification — from water sample collection to species identification — entirely portable and capable of being conducted on-site without an internet connection, thanks to the Nanopore MinION device.

The effectiveness of the FeDS kit was successfully tested in the Florida Keys, where the team not only detected the upside-down jellyfish (Cassiopea) but also identified a remarkable 53 jellyfish species, including two venomous box jellyfish species previously unreported in the area. Dr. Ames envisions incredible practical applications for this technology, such as predicting jellyfish sting risks, much like a ‘weather forecast app’ for swimmers!

This innovative research was published in the esteemed Frontiers in Marine Science journal, underscoring its solid impact and global relevance.

To understand this groundbreaking innovation and how it’s shaping the future of marine life detection, read the full article on Asia Research News:

And to access the original scientific paper that underpins this research, click here:

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Cassiopea upside-down jellyfish in Key Largo mangrove forest waters (Florida Keys, USA)

Video showing footage of Cassiopea upside-down jellyfish in Key Largo mangrove forest waters (Florida Keys, USA). Water samples were taken from this collection site during a jellyfish environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding study by Ames et al. 2021, published in Frontiers of Marine Science. Copyright A.C. Morandini (coauthor on the study) “Fieldable Environmental DNA Sequencing to Assess Jellyfish Biodiversity in Nearshore Waters of the Florida Keys, United States”

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Tracking Down Ocean Species On the Go Using eDNA

An image of the Smithsonian Museum logo

The article highlights the pioneering work of our own Dr. Cheryl Ames and her team in the Florida Keys. They led a crucial study demonstrating the potential of a portable Nanopore sequencer to detect the presence of upside-down jellyfish (Cassiopea xamachana) and other jellyfish species directly in the field! This represents an incredible leap forward, overcoming the challenges of bringing complex DNA analysis from labs into the marine environment.

This technology not only identified Cassiopea jellyfish but also revealed the presence of other species unseen at the time of sampling, such as moon jellyfish and venomous box jellyfish. The potential is vast: from predicting jellyfish sting risks to aiding fisheries management, supporting conservation efforts, and even integrating into autonomous underwater vehicles for comprehensive marine surveys.

This groundbreaking research stems from a foundational scientific paper published in Frontiers in Marine Science, underscoring its impact.

Read the full article on Smithsonian Ocean and dive into the future of species detection:

And for the original scientific paper that underpins this amazing work, access it here:

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These jellyfish can sting without touching you, thanks to ‘mucus grenades’

Imagine encountering a creature that defends itself with unseen projectiles! National Geographic invites you on a journey into the remarkable world of upside-down jellyfish, showcasing Dr. Cheryl Ames’s extraordinary research into their unique defense strategy.

This captivating feature explores how these intriguing invertebrates, Cassiopea spp., can release ‘mucus grenades’ – microscopic, venom-filled structures that pack a potent sting without direct contact. Dr. Cheryl Ames, a marine biologist and associate professor at Tohoku University, provides a fascinating glimpse into the observation of these creatures’ efficiency:

“Then, within 24 hours, the pink cloud will be gone.” (referring to the cloud of zapped brine shrimp after feeding). This observation speaks volumes about the efficacy of their hidden defense system.

National Geographic beautifully illustrates how Dr. Ames’s profound contributions are reshaping our understanding of marine ecosystems and the intricate adaptations within them. It’s truly inspiring to see this deep dive into nature’s secrets featured by such a world-renowned publication, bringing the wonders of the ocean floor to life for millions worldwide.

Explore the National Geographic Story Here

Discover Dr. Ames’s Original Research Paper Here

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Upside-down jellyfish release venom-filled ‘bombs’ in their snot

Mucus produced by these upside-down jellyfish can be seen floating above their frilly arms. (Image credit: Allen Collins and Cheryl Ames)

For years, swimmers have felt a perplexing tingling in waters inhabited by upside-down jellyfish, even without direct contact. Now, Live Science delivers the definitive scientific explanation, thanks to the pivotal research co-led by Dr. Cheryl Ames!

The long-standing question of what causes this ‘stinging water sensation’ has finally been addressed. As Dr. Cheryl Ames, an associate professor of applied marine biology at Tohoku University, explains the initial scientific challenge:

“We knew it had to be something in the mucus.”

Her team’s methodical investigation led to the identification of ‘cassiosomes’ – microscopic, venom-filled structures released by the jellyfish – providing the clear answer.

This compelling Live Science article details the journey of scientific inquiry, highlighting the rigorous process that unveiled nature’s hidden mechanisms. We’re proud to see Dr. Ames’s dedication to solving marine mysteries recognized by Live Science, bringing clarity and understanding to a broader audience.

Explore the Live Science Story Here

Discover Dr. Ames’s Original Research Paper Here

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Upside-down Jellyfish Create ‘Stinging Water’ That Kills Prey by Launching Mucus ‘Grenades’

[This study] began when I and other marine biologists were concerned about the source of ‘stinging water’—an irritating sensation that occurred while in the mangrove forest waters studying upside-down jellyfish, and working together with aquarists at major public aquariums,” Cheryl Ames, an author of the study from Tohoku University, Japan, and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, told Newsweek.

“There were several theories exchanged by fellow marine biologists, and comments posted online by people after experiencing stinging water during snorkeling or swimming in those areas. We wanted to find out the scientific explanation behind the long-standing stinging water puzzle,” she said.

Read the full story here