A massive tsunami sparked by the huge Tōhoku earthquake in 2011 sent nearly 300 living Japanese coastal marine species on a six-year journey across the Pacific Ocean, leading to a transoceanic migration that has no known historical precedent.
These species, which include mollusks, fish, parasites, and more, have been found residing in Hawaii, Midway Atoll, and parts of the West Coast, from Alaska to California. Some may eventually disrupt pre-existing ecosystems, raising concerns over invasive species.
While the tsunami was a natural event, the migration has been aided by humans, since these species were able to hitch a ride across the ocean on non-biodegradable debris, such as plastics. Read more...
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