Viruses Are Not Always the Villain

We can thank microbes for moving carbon to the depths of the ocean, but will our changing world mess with their good work? And should we intervene?

Apr 12, 2022 | 2,400 words, about 12 minutes

A Cancer-Quashing Microbe Emerges from the Deep

A species of marine bacteria shows promise for curing a nasty brain cancer.

Aug 31, 2021 | 4,100 words, about 21 minutes

How Aquaculture Is Spreading a Salmon Virus

A genetic analysis of Piscine orthoreovirus shows how it was repeatedly transported from Norwegian salmon farms to aquaculture operations around the world—and on to wild Pacific salmon.

May 26, 2021 | 900 words, about 4 minutes

For a Peek Inside Wisconsin’s Watery Past, Thank the Microbes

Since its discovery in the 1980s, a fossil site in a Milwaukee suburb has borne some of the best-preserved soft-bodied organisms from the Silurian.

May 5, 2021 | 950 words, about 4 minutes

Could Marine Mammals Contract COVID-19?

Scientists say it’s possible.

Sep 17, 2020 | 900 words, about 4 minutes

How Diseases Sweep through the Sea

For marine mammals, viral and bacterial outbreaks are on the rise.

Aug 7, 2020 | 650 words, about 3 minutes

Do Fish Tummy Bugs Dictate Their Diets?

A preliminary study of Florida fish microbes hints at how and why each fish fills a unique ecological role.

Jun 17, 2020 | 650 words, about 3 minutes

Australia’s Plant Virus Sting Operation

In Australia, an experiment shows that honeybees can help scientists spot novel diseases.

Feb 12, 2020 | 600 words, about 3 minutes