Tag Archives: florida

Two Coral Species in Florida Declared ‘Functionally Extinct’

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Midlers mentioned that no other Atlantic species reaches such dimensions or establishes extensive lattices.

“They are the sole species capable of creating a genuine 3D structure,” she stated.

To the north, around Miami and Broward counties, some remnants of corals exist. However, researchers believe a revival is highly improbable. Corals reproduce by emitting eggs and sperm that mingle in the water, but ocean currents hinder the movement of these reproductive cells southward, according to Canning.

While the study zooms in on Florida, the 2023 heatwave significantly affected elkhorn and staghorn corals throughout the Caribbean, as reported by external researchers.

Stacey Williams, the scientific director of ISER Caribe—a nonprofit dedicated to coral restoration—mentioned that nearly all elkhorn corals in southern Puerto Rico perished due to the extreme heat. Following that, the 2024 heat wave harmed some northern colonies that had demonstrated greater resilience. Her organization aims to “biobank coral species” by collecting living fragments.

In Florida, the 2023 heat wave jeopardized a long-term restoration effort for elkhorn and staghorn corals, including areas where coral coverage had improved after four years of focused interventions. Approximately fourfold.

The study suggests that importing heat-resistant corals from elsewhere may be the only viable option moving forward.

In the future, scientists might explore gene-editing corals to enhance their heat resistance, although this concept necessitates more research and careful examination, as noted by Midlers.

Recently, the International Union for Conservation of Nature approved further investigation into the potential of gene-editing tools to safeguard wildlife populations, a subject that generates significant bioethical debate.

“It’s a possibility being considered because everything is on the table,” Midlers remarked.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Treasure Hunter Claims Recovery of $1 Million in Coins from Spanish Shipwreck off Florida Coast

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Over 1,000 gold and silver coins, valued at roughly $1 million, have been retrieved from an 18th-century shipwreck located off the coast of Florida, as reported by the Shipwreck Salvage Company.

The company, 1715 Fleet Queens Jewels, LLC, stated in a news release that it recovered the coins in July from the renowned Treasure Coast region in southeastern Florida.

This discovery is part of an estimated $400 million worth of gold, silver, and gems that were lost by the Spanish fleet during the hurricane of 1715.

“The find represents more than just treasure; it tells a story,” said Sal Guttuso, the company’s operations director, in a statement. “Every coin connects us to the lives and work of those who navigated the seas during the Spanish Empire’s Golden Age.”

Over 1,000 silver coins have been discovered from a shipwreck site in Vero Beach, Florida.
1715 Fleet – Queen’s Jewels, LLC

“Finding over 1,000 coins in one excavation is indeed rare and remarkable,” he noted.

The prized assets of the 1715 fleet included coins from Spanish colonies in Mexico, Peru, and Bolivia. Many of these coins still exhibit clear dates and mint marks, making them significant to historians and collectors alike.

“The condition of these coins indicates they likely originated from a single chest or a portion of the ship that dispersed when the hurricane struck,” the news release clarified.

During a call on Thursday, Guttuso mentioned that he discovered coins concentrated in various areas beneath the sand, indicating they were likely housed in some kind of container.

“I believe they were probably stored in wooden boxes,” he theorized.

He also revealed that he found a Royal Lead Seal inscribed with the impression of King Philip II of Spain, who reigned during the mid- to late-1500s.

“We can reasonably speculate that this lead seal may have belonged to a prominent family,” he noted. “It likely associated with important documents that may have granted ownership of land or rights.”

Fragments and gems from a golden chain were also retrieved.
1715 Fleet – Queen Jewels, LLC
Gold artifacts were also found in Vero Beach, Florida.
1715 Fleet – Queen Jewels, LLC

The Queen’s Jewels of the 1715 Fleet claims exclusive salvage rights to the wreck of the Treasure Fleet but stated that the recovered coins will undergo meticulous conservation before being publicly displayed, with plans for exhibition at a local museum.

“Each discovery contributes to piecing together the narratives of those connected to the 1715 fleet,” Guttuso remarked. “We are dedicated to preserving and researching these artifacts, enabling future generations to recognize their historical importance.”

Requests for comments on the findings were not immediately returned by the US District Court of Florida or by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s office.

Matt Raviet

Matt Lavietes is a reporter for NBC News.

Christian Santana I contributed.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

The Rising Threat of Carnivorous Bacteria in Florida and Louisiana

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The number of fatalities linked to “carnivorous” bacteria is increasing along the southeast coast of the US. Five individuals in Florida, Four in Louisiana, and One in the Outer Banks have succumbed this year to infections that can lead to necrotic wounds.

The culprit, the bacterium Vibrio vulnificus, thrives in warm seawater. According to the state health department, Florida has reported 16 cases so far this year. Louisiana has reported 17 cases, exceeding last year’s average. North Carolina has recorded seven incidents, confirmed by its Department of Health and Human Services, while Mississippi has filed three lawsuits this year, as per the state’s health department.

The initial fatalities in Florida were documented in Bay County along the Gulf Coast, as well as Hillsboro County and regions in Broward and St. John’s Counties, located just south of Jacksonville in southeastern Florida.

Bacteria can enter the body through skin wounds, resulting in tissue necrosis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, vibrio vulnificus can also be contracted via the consumption of contaminated food, particularly raw oysters. The exact means of infection for those in Florida remains unclear.

As reported by the CDC, approximately one in five individuals infected with Vibrio vulnificus will die.

Antalpreet Jutt, a professor of engineering at the University of Florida, noted that while infections are still relatively rare, “something feels off this year.” Nevertheless, he mentioned the uncertainty around the reasons behind the spike in infections.

“This is definitely not normal,” Jutt expressed. “We haven’t encountered this many cases early in the summer in quite some time.”

Jutt explained that cases of Vibrio vulnificus tend to rise following hurricanes. Last year, Florida registered a total of 82 cases, potentially worsened by an “extremely active” hurricane season when bacteria can persist in floodwaters.

“This year, it seems there are a higher number of pathogens than usual,” he remarked.

The current hurricane season is still projected to be above average as the US enters its peak period, as reported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Jutt’s research group is examining why there are elevated concentrations of plankton and chlorophyll (indicators of Vibrio) throughout the Florida panhandle, which he describes as a concerning trend.

What is Vibrio vulnificus?

Rita Colwell, a microbiology professor at the University of Maryland, states that Vibrio vulnificus is one of over 200 species of Vibrio bacteria.

Most Vibrio infections are not harmful to humans, according to Jutt. Some may only impact marine life.

However, Vibrio bacteria are responsible for around 80,000 infections annually, as reported by the Cleveland Clinic. The majority of these cases are gastrointestinal, with only 100-200 cases arising from Vibrio vulnificus. Other Vibrio species, such as Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio alginolyticus, are more commonly associated with stomach illnesses, while another, Vibrio cholerae, is known to cause cholera.

Vibrio bacteria are primarily found along the southeastern coast of the United States, favoring warmer waters, but are also present on the west coast. With rising sea temperatures, cases have increasingly been reported further north, including areas in New York, Connecticut, and parts of Maryland, Jutt noted.

Who is at risk?

Dr. Norman Beatty, an infectious disease specialist at the University of Florida Health, mentioned that spending time in salty or brackish waters can lead to Vibrio bacteria infiltrating open wounds. Most cases he has encountered are associated with extended exposure to the water, though even short contact can be sufficient.

Visible symptoms of infection can develop within hours, including redness, swelling, and the formation of “bull” blisters. This site can become painful. If the infection progresses, it may enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to sepsis, which can be fatal. According to the CDC, symptoms of sepsis include fever, chills, and dangerously low blood pressure.

Jutt mentioned that individuals with cirrhosis, weakened immune systems, and those over 65 are particularly vulnerable to infections.

Infections caused by Vibrio vulnificus can be treated with antibiotics.

How to prevent Vibrio infection

Beatty advises covering any open wounds before entering the ocean, noting that even waterproof band-aids can be effective.

Individuals who suspect they have an infection should seek immediate medical attention, Beatty cautioned. Delays can significantly increase the risk of severe complications compared to milder cases.

“Late presentations to healthcare are why many individuals suffer more serious consequences than others,” he stated. “Those who seek treatment shortly after the onset of symptoms, and are given antibiotics promptly, are likely to fare better and avoid severe complications.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Hurricane Risks in Florida Are Growing: Challenges in Securing Flood Insurance

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The threat of hurricanes in Florida is increasing, driven by anthropogenic climate change that warms our atmosphere and elevates sea surface temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico. Warmer conditions retain moisture, enhance hurricane intensity, and create more powerful storms, making Florida more susceptible to storm-related damage. During Hurricane Helen, extreme rainfall surged by 10%, with some regions in Florida receiving up to 26.95 inches of rainfall.

Jeremy Porter, a climate risk expert at the First Street Foundation, points out that soaring insurance costs reflect the significant effects of climate change in West Florida, where areas like Fort Myers Beach are grappling with recurring losses and expensive recovery efforts.

“In recent decades, we’ve been catching up with the reality of climate risks that weren’t adequately reflected in risk modeling. Now, as we reassess, premium costs are rising rapidly, impacting people’s household budgets,” Porter noted.

Due to a scarcity of home insurance options, residents are increasingly opting for coverage through Citizens Insurance Property Corp., a state-supported non-profit insurer in Florida.

Porter anticipates that by 2055, home insurance premiums in the Tampa Metro region could soar by 213% because of hurricane risks. Climate-related threats are similarly disrupting insurance markets in other states; for instance, Sacramento, California, may see a 137% rise due to heightened wildfire risks.

Porter also mentioned that declining home prices in Florida could influence insurance costs and accessibility. If property values fall below a certain threshold, insurers exposed to hurricane risks may view this as a warning sign, leading to increased scrutiny and potential hikes in premiums during the underwriting process.

Zillow data indicates that the value of homes in Fort Myers Beach has decreased by approximately $200,000 from pre-pandemic levels, with around 86% of last year’s sales reflecting this price drop.

Before Hurricane Ian, the average home value on Sanibel Island, a favored destination in Lee County, stood at nearly $1.3 million. Today, it has plummeted to $868,000, with 93% of homes having sold at reduced prices.

Joan Krempner, a part-time resident of Fort Myers Beach since 2016, stated that selling her home is not financially feasible after substantial rebuilding costs following Hurricane Ian. With few alternatives but to remain in Fort Myers Beach, Krempner expresses concern about the long-term implications of climate change on the community’s future.

“We must face that this is a long-term issue. The critical question is whether people want to keep investing in Fort Myers Beach,” Krempner remarked. “If there hasn’t been a hurricane in 30 years, the risk seems worthwhile for living in paradise. But if three major hurricanes strike within 18 months, doubt creeps in.”

Jacki Liszak, president and CEO of the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce, asserts that Fort Myers Beach remains an attractive place to live and visit, highlighting community efforts toward resilient architecture and the construction of homes above flood levels.

“Homes must be built strong and elevated,” Liszak emphasized. “This is beneficial. People are already here, and they’ll continue to come. They cherish this lifestyle—it’s truly a beautiful part of the world.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Meet the Individual Linked to Four Deaths from Carnivorous Bacteria in Florida

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This year, four individuals in Florida have succumbed to a bacterial infection that can lead to “carnivorous” wounds, as reported by the State Health Department this month.

The culprit is the bacterium Vibrio vulnificus, which flourishes in warm seawater. The fatalities occurred in counties along the Gulf Coast, stretching from Bay County to Hillsboro County, encompassing much of Florida’s coastline.

According to the state health department, Florida has recorded 11 instances of Vibrio vulnificus this year. The bacteria can infiltrate the body through open skin wounds, leading to tissue death, as noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Additionally, consumption of contaminated food, especially raw oysters, can also result in infection. The exact means of infection for those affected in Florida remain unclear.

The CDC indicates that approximately one in five individuals infected with Vibrio vulnificus will die.

Antacarit Jutra, an engineering professor at the University of Florida, is investigating Vibrio bacteria and mentions that while infections are relatively uncommon, instances tend to rise following hurricanes. Last year, Florida reported a total of 82 cases, likely exacerbated by a “very active” hurricane season.

What is Vibrio vulnificus?

Rita Colwell, a microbiology professor at the University of Maryland, states that Vibrio vulnificus is among over 200 species of Vibrio bacteria.

Most Vibrio infections do not pose a threat to humans, Jutra notes. Some may only affect other animals.

Vibrio bacteria result in roughly 80,000 infections annually, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Most cases are gastrointestinal, with only 100-200 attributed to Vibrio vulnificus. Other Vibrio species, like Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio alginolyticus, usually cause gastrointestinal diseases, while Vibrio cholerae is responsible for cholera-related diarrhea.

Vibrio bacteria typically inhabit the southeastern coast of the United States where warm waters are prevalent, but they are also found along the west coast. As ocean temperatures rise, more cases have emerged further north in recent years, including areas like New York, Connecticut, and parts of Maryland, according to Jutla.

Who is at risk?

Dr. Norman Beatty, an infectious disease physician at the University of Florida Health, points out that Vibrio bacteria can enter through open wounds after exposure to salty or brackish water. While most cases he has encountered are linked to prolonged exposure, even short bouts can be sufficient.

Symptoms of infection may appear within just a few hours, including redness, swelling, and “bull” blisters at the site, which can be quite painful. If left untreated, the infection may spread into the bloodstream and lead to sepsis, which can be fatal. Symptoms of sepsis encompass fever, chills, and severe hypotension, as per the CDC.

Individuals with cirrhosis, weakened immune systems, and those over 65 years old are at the highest risk of infection, according to Jutla.

Antibiotics can effectively treat Vibrio vulnificus infections.

How to prevent vibrio infection

Beatty advises covering any open wounds before entering the ocean, noting that even waterproof band-aids can be effective.

If anyone suspects they have an infection, they should seek medical attention immediately, as delays can lead to severe complications.

“Late presentations to healthcare are often the reason some individuals experience more serious consequences than others,” he explains. “Those who present early with signs and symptoms of infection and receive antibiotics on the same day tend to fare better and avoid severe complications.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

“Invasive Termites from Florida Have the Potential to Spread Globally”

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Egg mass containing invasive adult termites Coptotermes gestroi

T Chouvenc, UF/IFAS

Florida’s latest termites offer a unique two-for-one deal, but there’s no celebration for them. Two species of invasive wood-eating insects have interbred, resulting in hybrid colonies that can produce extraordinarily resilient termites, posing a threat to both buildings and forests.

The results are “intriguing and unexpected,” notes Edouard Duquesne, a researcher at the Free University of Brussels, who was not part of the study. “The viable hybrids of these species could have a significantly broad geographic range, leading to highly invasive termites capable of causing severe damage.”

Since 2010, termite infestations have resulted in $40 billion in annual losses, with around 80% attributed to the Coptotermes genus. The Formosan subterranean termites (Coptotermes formosanus) have invaded many warm temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, while their Asian counterpart, Coptotermes gestroi, has expanded from Southeast Asia to tropical areas worldwide. Since the late 1990s, both species have overlapped in southern Florida, according to Thomas Chouvenc at the University of Florida.

In 2015, Chouvenc and his team demonstrated that these two species could produce hybrid offspring in controlled environments. By 2021, Chouvenc discovered alates—winged termites that establish new colonies—with characteristics merging those of the Formosan and the smaller, darker Asian species. These hybrids were identified in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and were confirmed through genetic testing. A hybrid nest was also found in a local park adjacent to the marina.

In 2024, the existence of wild hybrids was validated by Taiwanese researchers, confirming that these species have coexisted for a century in southern Florida.

“It’s only a matter of time before we see hybridization and the establishment of hybrid populations wherever these two species coexist,” warns Chouvenc.

Researchers have also observed that first-generation hybrid females can mate with males from either parent species. Chouvenc expresses concern that gene flow between the species could lead to the emergence of a termite population that thrives in a wider range of environmental conditions, including temperature variations. The proximity of these termites to a busy port heightens the risk that such hybrids could be transported globally.

“We [humans] didn’t pay enough attention, and as a result, we’ve allowed these termites to spread,” Chouvenc added.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Rocket explosion by SpaceX causes flight delays at Florida airport due to debris concerns

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A huge explosion of a SpaceX rocket above South Florida caused major disruptions for an air traveler due to unexpected delays.

The failure of the SpaceX mission led to the FAA grounding air traffic around Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Orlando, citing concerns about “space-fired debris.”

“After years of traveling, this is a first,” expressed a Facebook user who goes by the name of Rappeck. Executive Peck was flying to South America but had to divert to Miami.

The flight pilot informed passengers that a space rocket had exploded during flight, causing debris to fall along their path. They reassured the passengers that they were safe but needed to circle back to Miami.

Peck shared, “We eventually had to return to Miami. It’s unbelievable. We’ve faced delays due to weather, mechanical issues, and even unruly passengers, but never because of a rocket explosion.”

Jesse Winans, a traveler en route from Costa Rica to Charlotte, found himself in an unexpected layover in Fort Lauderdale along with other passengers.

“They are trying to manage the situation with customers, but I anticipate a long process to reach our destination,” complained the frustrated traveler to NBC South Florida.

Debris from a SpaceX rocket above the Bahamas on Thursday.
John Ward

SpaceX previously experienced a similar accident in January and has pledged to learn from this latest incident.

The company stated Thursday night in a released statement, “We will analyze data from today’s flight tests to better understand the root causes. Success stems from our learnings, and today’s flights provide more insight to enhance Starship’s reliability.”

Elon Musk summed it up more succinctly with his statement: “Rocket science is hard.”


David K. Lee

Senior Breaking News Reporter

Brian Hamacher of NBC South Florida and Sarah Mahidri contributed.

Source: www.nbcnews.com