Many scientists believe primordial life sprang from geothermal vents in the ocean’s deep trenches. There, a witch’s brew of chemicals, ignited by volcanic infernos in the cold and dark, sparked the creation of organic molecules and proto-cellular forms. Now, meet what evolution has produced: elegant sea creatures that still “hot-tub” at volcanic hot springs—but in the sun-warmed shallows of Sulawesi’s lush reefs. —MJS

In 2007, something started killing oysters on the Oregon Coast. To root out the cause, the usual remedies were tried, but it took a marine scientist to nail the culprit: ocean acidification, which took calcium and carbon out of the water when oysters most need them for shell formation. With special treatment, most of the hatchery beds recovered, but the problem remains. —SJPH

At OrcaLab, Paul Spong and his colleagues have documented killer whales functionally deafened by ships’ noise that obscures the orcas’ own sonar, essential for finding prey. Suddenly, COVID changed all that: shipping all but ceased, creating a baseline of natural sound levels and behaviors. Soon scientists may have evidence to motivate governments to better manage maritime transport, and protect the whales. —MJS

An homage to a tight knit, northern California rural fishing community. Meet the proud and passionate people, who share their personal stories of fortune and misfortune, family, the infectious love they have for their way of life and their strong sense of place. You may be lured to Humboldt County to meet them and offer thanks. —BB