Fall Newsletter from NECWA - Read all about it!

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Click HERE to read our Fall NECWA Newsletter.

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The Electric Torpedo Ray of New England

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The Shocking Ray of New England Blog by  Coleman Earner - December 21, 2020 Dead Torpedo Ray in Brewster, MA Torpedo Rays are a genus of rays that are part of the Order  Torpediniformes (electric rays). In reference to local sightings, the most commonly seen torpedo ray in the Cape Cod region is the Atlantic Torpedo ( Torpedo nobiliana ). They are cartilaginous fish (most similar to the structure of sharks and skates) with a flat and rounded disc-like structure. As suggested by their order, torpedo rays are most commonly known for their ability to discharge electricity of up to 220 volts from both pectoral fins (pectoral fins are flat and expanded and fused to the head area) as a self defense mechanism or as a means of capturing prey. Their feeding strategy consists of burying themselves under the sand and waiting for unsuspecting prey to wander by.  Dead Torpedo Ray on a Cape Cod Beach. Torpedo Rays feed mainly on benthic/pelagic fish such as flounders, damselfish, and o...
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Keystone Species: What They Are and Why You Should Care

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Keystone Species: What They Are and Why You Should Care By NECWA Intern Lydia Myers A keystone species is any organism that is irreplaceable in its ecosystem.  These animals, plants, fungi, and other life forms significantly influence their surroundings and the number of other members of their food webs.  A defining feature of keystone species is that though they have a large impact, they’re not incredibly abundant.  Sea otters, African elephants, fig trees and hummingbirds are all examples of keystone species. A kelp forest with otters, and without https://seaotters.com/2013/05/why-are-sea-otters-important-no-sea-otters-no-kelp-forests/ Keystone species are often predators, not prey species.  Their job is to keep other species in check and maintain balance in the ecosystem. Sea otters prey on sea urchins in kelp forests.  Without this interaction, the kelp forests would be completely diminished by the sea urchins.  African elephants, on the othe...
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River Herring Migration at the Wareham Fish Ladder, Middleboro, MA

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River Herring are migrating from their ocean homes to our freshwater rivers and lakes to spawn. This annual spring migration is amazing to see. The Wareham Street Fish Ladder is one of the strongest runs in New England. The fish are funning in full force right now, but things will slow down as we near the end of the spawning run. Hope you can stop by soon to seen and experience this incredible sight of nature. 
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