Web of Life: Exploring Earth's Rich Biodiversity

Species across the globe are threatened by encroaching plastic pollution, and hermit crabs are no different! In the Pacific, these crabs have been observed to use plastic waste such as bottle caps as improvised shells. The natural shells they typically inhabit are targeted by beachcombers who have been over-collecting these precious resources. Hermit crabs rely on shells to protect their soft abdomens, and with no natural options, they have been resorting to using plastic waste. Whilst resourceful from the crabs, exposure to these plastics causes neurological damage and other health concerns in crabs. We conducted the first-ever field study in Okinawa, Japan to document the extent of this problem in the blueberry hermit crab (Coenobita purpureus). The beaches we visited in general lacked natural shells, and a large portion of crabs were living in broken or poorly fitting shells. Join us to hear all about the plight of the resourceful hermit crab and learn what you can do to help!

Beaver's were hunted to extinction in the UK by the mid 1600s but now they are making a comeback. With the success of the Essex Beaver Project in Finchingfield, what have we learned from about the way they manage water and what are the challenges and opportunities ahead now that they have been licensed for release in the wild?

Discover how Seasearch volunteers are uncovering incredible biodiversity finds, like the 81 species found in Arran's no-take zone and the understudied world of Norfolk’s chalk reef. We'll discuss how these discoveries are impacting conservation efforts and how you can contribute to this vital work. Get ready to be amazed by the power of community science!