Hey Gang,
December’s winner of the Swarovski Dolphin worth $245.00 Value is Shelley Sanders. The winner needs to contact us and go to the contest page to claim their prize. Also, don’t forget to sign up for this month’s contest, Melissa & Doug Plush Stuffed Dolphin worth $49.
< Enter Now >

I hope you are this month’s winner! < No Obligation, Enter Today!>
God Bless,
John

Have you ever considered the life of a Mother dolphin when expecting a new born?

Did you know that over the course of pregnancy, a female dolphins belly will grow until her girth increases about 50 percent?

How does this affect her in her everyday struggle to survive and provide a future for her baby?

Dr Shawn R. Noren a marine biologist at the University of California, Santa Cruz, sets out to find out just that in his article Different Strokes with a Baby on Board.

The biggest impact of such a find is the aerodynamic drag from the added weight, which essentially slows her down, and makes her more susceptible to attack from predators, or even rival dolphins.

Even More alarming is the fact that pregnant dolphins have a much harder time diving to catch their food, as their added weight hinders them.

One of the most amazing points made by Dr. Noren is that pregnant dolphins also swim differently, making shorter but more frequent strokes. And the growing fetus stretches out the mother’s muscles, probably making it more difficult for her to thrust her tail up and down.

Bottom line, sometimes its amazing to know just how much we have in common with these incredibly selfless animals, their trials and problems are similar to the adversities that normal women face during a pregnancy, but the indomitable spirit of a mother never fails, and they find a way for themselves and their new born babies.

I really hope you enjoyed this article,

We would love to hear from you and consider your opinions and thoughts on the article.

Until next time, wishing you all a  God Bless day… Tarek

Sometimes you have to really think hard about all the mysteries of nature, the things in life that are actually unanswered by science. Science of course is there to rationalize and simplify what would otherwise seem as a miracle to the common eye. Yet here we find one of the few exceptions to the rule.  A dolphins regenerative ability is one such mystery of nature that still evades the complete grasp of scientific knowledge and understanding. How does a dolphin when bitten ferociously by a great white, not bleed to death, not hemorrhage, not catch infection and at the same time heals very quickly.

How are there internal defense systems so sophisticated and is it possible for us to replicate their advanced healing system in human beings? These are the pressing questions in the world of Marine Biology today.

This article describes in detail the findings of several scientists and marine biologists, that have researched the phenomena and have attempted to shed some light on the issue with empirical evidence. Their answers to each of the phenomenon is intriguing and logical.  Dr Zasloff from teh George Town University Medical Center explains that when it comes to blood loss from a shark bite, less blood leaves the dolphin due to a internal valve mechanism that is triggered when dolphins plunge into deeper depths. Zasloff explains that this valve opens and closes just as normally as we breathe air, however he alludes to the fact that dolphins can control this valve just like we can control our breathing to a small extent, which allows them to channel their blood loss and make it significantly less that it ought to be once bitten.

Another point made within the article describes  how Dolphins have their own  naturally made antibodies that fight off infection upon severe trauma.  According to Zasloff “It’s most likely that the dolphin stores its own antimicrobial compound and releases it when an injury occurs,” Zasloff predicts. “This action could control and prevent microbial infection while at the same time prevent decomposition around the animal’s injury.”

Finally with respect to their rapid regeneration of skin and healing of the wound Zasloff attributes this to sophisticated internal micro-bodies that would similarly take effect in embryonic situations. Zasloff explains, “The repair of a gaping wound to an appearance that is near normal requires the ability of the injured animal to knit newly formed tissues with the existing fabric of adipocytes, collagen and elastic fibers,” he explains. “The dolphin’s healing is similar to how mammalian fetuses are able to heal in the womb.”

Wow, absolutely amazing, this of course is only the tip of the ice berg to what most marine biologists have found and continue to find each day. It just goes to show how much dolphins have left to bestow unto mankind. They are truly magnificent creatures and possibly one of the few remaining enigmas of biology and science; that promise to expand and brighten the horizons of modern medical advancements for human kind.

I certainly hope you enjoyed this article, please let us know what you think about it.

Did you guys know before reading this that dolphins were so resilient against attacks and did you know they had such a sophisticated internal recovery system? Have you ever considered getting up close and personal with a dolphin, maybe even swimming with the dolphins?

Hope to hear from you soon,

Until next time,
God Bless,
Tarek

This has indeed, as they say, been a long time coming , many of you have asked for more information on the possible careers involving Marine Wild Life and other sub related fields, like how to get involved, the best fields to enter, the most in demand and how to start. Well today we are going to be addressing these questions, but realize that what you read here is just a sample of what is out there, and that in fact this will just be a small summary and acquisition of the possible marine careers available and in demand now and in the near future.

Its interesting to note that the field of Marine Biology is extremely popular and coveted in today’s pool of possible career paths, many are enamored with the idea of interacting and studying live dolphins in the wild and learning their mysteries and secrets.   Unfortunately the truth of most marine biologists in the field to study marine mammals like dolphins, porpoises and Whales, is that these career paths are extremely competitive due to the immense volume of students vying for limited positions in the few organizations willing to hire them. This in tandem with the reality that most of these desired careers working with dolphins are actually done in a simple lab with tissue samples of dolphins, not real dolphins in the wild.

However this is no reason to be discouraged, there are literally countless possibilities of careers in the general field of Marine Biology and this is specifically attributed to the fact that anyone can literally study anything in the Biosphere, and become specialized in that field. Whether it be studying individual clams in the Arctic or perhaps studying all species of clams and their reaction to global climate shifts and pretty much everything in between. However some fields obviously are in more demand than others, a field covering how the excrement of turtles and sea life affect the ecosystem around them may not be as desirable as studying the puffer fish and developing potential anti-venom; it does not mean that the field does not exist for it. So now that you have a better understanding of the scope of how wide you can really go with Marine Biology, lets take some time and break down some of the major sister fields and related sub fields that all play a vital relationship to the overall success and cohesion of the Marine community.

In Marine Biology specifically there are important sub fields to consider, here we will list the ones that are currently hot on the market and in demand, those include, Biotechnology or related biomedical field that mostly involve utilizing the natural drugs and venom’s of marine life to combat popular problems especially in the shipping industry.

Molecular Biology is another hot field, that utilizes as it insinuates microscopic lifeforms like protozoa and other single celled organisms  to create and devise new possible solution’s, to diseases, like improved antibodies and antibiotics and a stringer medical core.

Aqua Culture, environmental biology and toxicology are all related sub fields that have very similar ties with respect to observing the environment and determine problem solving factors to common problems like overpopulation, toxicity in the water and much more. All of these have practical applications in real life and all of these listed so far are in demand for the new wave of college graduates hunting for a potential marine related job.

Some other great fields to consider that are closely linked with Marine Biology include Oceanography, Ocean Engineering, Coastal Engineering, and much more. As said before this is just a taste of what is available and what is to come. For more information regarding potential Marine Careers and how to get involved. Here is a website you need to check out for more information <  CLICK HERE >.  This site will give you a solid understanding of what is currently being offered and its opportunities while explaining in great detail how each of these related fields interact and serve society.

I do hope you guys enjoyed this post,  there is truly an almost limitless amount of options for someone considering the fascinating and unique field of Marine Biology  and hopefully with more inspired and dedicated students and soon to be scientists working hard, we can be hopeful that the world will indeed be a better place.

So what did you guys think about this blog, was it helpful, did you feel you got a descent ide of the different fields and possibilities?  What potential careers might you consider if you were in the Marine field? Have you ever gone swimming with the dolphins and felt inspired to study them? As always eager to hear your responses, until next time

God Bless,

Tarek

There are few organizations as reputable and prestigious as IMATA with respect to Marine preservation. Better known as the International Marine Animal Trainers association, their purpose is to provide opportunities for marine animal trainers to exchange and disseminate current knowledge, research and training information in both professional and social settings.

In addition, IMATA maintains a positive public image by preparing its members to act as ambassadors of the marine animal community. In Fact this is a primary reason for the upcoming 2011 Official IMATA conference. The date of this conference is Sun, 18 – Fri, 23 September 2011. Held at the equally well known and seasoned Miami Sea aquarium this coming September, It is a golden opportunity for the Marine community to interact and discuss knowledge, finding and information over the last year, and determine what new policy and changes should be made to the organization.

So if you want to expand your horizons and do more then just swimming with the dolphins, then you should consider attending this event. This upcoming event should be one to remember as it has a wide range of activities, guest speakers and events for all the members to participate in. Some of the main highlights include the world renowned Wyland marine life artist, who will talk about his work, his conservation fund, and will even paint live on stage. His artwork will also be auctioned off during the Live Art Auction later in the week. There will also be a Panel of experts to discuss “Education Messaging in Animal Programs and Shows”. There are also 2 nights of career night, where potential students studying in the arts can be interviewed and present their resumes among experts for review. There will also be a very fun and exciting Test Swim activity, where some of the best professionals will interact and experience an actual Swim Test run with marine wildlife.

Starting from the early 1970’s and starting with only 15 trainers and specialists IMATA has grown exponentially since those times to now house over 1000 members and have had 36 successful Annual Conferences. Without question this organization has benefited and continues to benefit the international marine community and this years conference is poised to be as good as ever, its definitely not one that any marine trainer should miss. On a final note the 2011 IMATA conference and in general the IMATA organozation is actively looking for sponsors to aid them with their research and development including costs to sustain the actual conference. They have already rallied very popular sponsors such as Sea World, Dolphin Quest, Miami Sea Aquarium, Dolphin Connection and many more. If you would like to find out more about the Imata conference visit their conference page Here to learn more about details and upcoming events.

I’m eager to hear what you guys think about this great organization, do you think this IMATA conference will be a great success?  have you guys ever heard of IMATA would you ever consider being a member? We would love to hear your feedback and opinions.  Until next time.

God Bless,

Tarek

It is interesting in today’s world with all the turmoil and confusion, to see any glimmers of hope on the horizon.  Something on the positive end that stops and makes you think wow, that is amazing, in a good way. Well, this is in fact one of those stories.

The overall mystery and mystique of the dolphins still fascinates scientists and zoologists to this day. You would be astounded to know how much we still don’t know about dolphins, and further impressed by the sheer amount we learn each and every day. Dr Michael Zasloff is a testament to that statement in many ways, as he published his finding on the resistance of dolphins to infections and overall severe trauma to their bodies.

Dr Zasloff asks “how is it possible that a dolphin swimming in the ocean can survive a ferocious shark bite and not succumb to its arduous effects, the blood lost, the blood trauma and overall infection and disease from the bite.”  Instead research currently shows that dolphins have an unusually high tolerance to pain and also heal wounds at impossibly level of efficiency. What causes this? How is this done?  Can humans learn from this and possibly apply this knowledge to our modern reservoir of science and technology.

To read Dr. Zasloff findings, go to this Article

In the end, this is ground breaking research can open the windows to limitless possibilities with respect to utilizing and harnessing the magnificent abilities of these wondrous creatures. Most of all we can safely say we know a little more about these cute cuddly and loveable creatures than we did before.  Who knows what mysteries lie ahead. But one thing is for sure, they will be full of excitement and adventure.

So what do you guys think, do you think there is more to learn about dolphins? Do you believe that we can use what we learn from dolphins to better our society and overall civilization?  I know I do, cant wait to hear from you all.

God Bless,
Tarek

This young dolphin enthusiast did some real swimming the dolphins. She had the opportunity to perform with the dolphins at an Ocean Park in Taiwan, the Far East.

Here is note and photos from her.

My name is Jamilya,i’m 18years old..and i’m the member of juvenile picked team of the Republic of Kazakhstan and have sport category of “Candidate of master of sport of the Republic of Kazakhstan (synchronized swimming)” and i had experience in Taiwan 2008-2010 – “Ocean world”(with dolphins and sea lines). Here are some photos. I hope you like it.

Looks like she had fun and has a lot of talent in the water.
Thanks for the photos.
God Bless,
John

It might be odd to think about, an original  true pink dolphin. Most of us can picture in our minds a regular lovable and cute dolphin in its shiny, somewhat beige reflective coat, that glimmers beautifully in the sunlight as the water rolls of its skin. But  if i was to tell you there is a place on Earth that do shelter pink dolphins, you might believe me to be crazy. How can there be a Pink Dolphin? I mean really, is this some young girls fantasy, as she pictures a beautiful pink dolphin in her head and attempts to draw one on paper?

No my friends this is the real deal and we have the pictures and  the video playback to back it up. However the story of the pink dolphins, is one of diminishing returns, especially in regards to their future habitat and in fact their future existence.

According to a story done by CNN, the beauty of this dolphin swimming around the seas of Honk Kong, The Indo Pacific Hump back Dolphins, according to scientists,  turn pink due to what they call internal heating, somehow in an effort to adapt to their environment and the cold waters, they actually develop a pinkish hue in their skin pigmentation that we interpret as pink.

Dispite this adaptation to their surroundings, the true point of the
CNN video story is the ever decreasing habitat of the Pink Dolphins. Each year as Honk Kong expands its commercial prowess, it also expands and detracts from the increasingly limited waters of the Pink Dolphins. This is due to new Harbors, bridges, boating and other commercial activities that require more of the Pink Dolphin natural habitat.

Another major challenge to the continued longevity of the  over 2500 dolphins in the area  is the pollution. Honk Kong dumps approximately 400 000 cubic meters of  pollution each day. The equivalent, as the video says, to 4000 truck loads of  sewage. A major health concern not only to the dolphins but the entire ecosystem of the area.

If we are to maintain the existence of these beloved and amazing creatures, we must take adequate steps to ensure the safety of the environment and most importantly to secure the safety of the animals that dwell within. < Watch this Video>

As always we do hope you enjoyed our article, please let us know what you think. We are eager to receive your feed back.

Until Next time,     God Bless,
Tarek

Hey there,
Many of you have heard about the new baby dolphin that was born at the Baltimore Aquarium.  This new baby Dolphin is swimming around with its mother and nursing regularly.  As you can imagine, the staff of the aquarium is really busy watching this baby and hoping and praying that it survives.

Here is a video and article from the Baltimore Sun that is really interesting and you should see and read….

With little ones to consider — to say nothing of their sensitive mothers — the usually boisterous dolphin show, known for splashing and shrieking, has turned into a quiet zone, with hushed music, fewer visitors allowed in at a time and a video documenting dolphin births substituting for most of the noisy acrobatics.

Though showing off baby animals is a no-brainer at most zoos, a surefire visitor magnet, the aquarium is keeping its dolphin calves out of the public eye — but showing them off all the same. With the survival rate of dolphin calves less than one in three and many babies not making it to their first birthday, the aquarium is hoping the short-term shushing, and limiting access to the cuteness to just a glimpse for now, will lead to healthier dolphins. Go to < Read More >

Did you watch the video? It’s really cool because you will see the birth of this new baby dolphin and its informational too.  What did you think of the video and article? Anything you thought was interesting?
God Bless,
John

Just got back from a Chicago Trip and visited the famous Shedd Aquarium there.  Do you believe there are dolphins in Chicago? Yes, the Shedd Aquarium has pacific ocean dolphins and much more.

If you want to read my story of my experience at the aquarium…

< Shedd Aquarium Story >

Has anyone been there and can add to my story?
God Bless,
John