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Spongin is a type of collagenous protein that serves as a structural component in the skeleton of certain sponges. It is a key element in the anatomy of glass sponges and other sponge species, providing them with flexibility and strength. Unlike the siliceous (silica-based) spicules found in some sponges, spongin is organic and helps to maintain the sponge's shape and integrity.

The Stable Ocean Hypothesis is a scientific concept related to the stability and regulation of Earth's climate through oceanic processes. It posits that during certain geological periods, the ocean's physical and chemical properties, such as temperature, salinity, and circulation patterns, are maintained in a stable state, which in turn has significant implications for global climate, marine ecosystems, and atmospheric conditions.

In marine biology, "substrate" refers to the surface or material on or in which organisms live, grow, and obtain their nutrients. This can include a variety of types of surfaces, such as: 1. **Natural substrates**: These can be sandy, rocky, muddy, or even organic materials like decaying plant matter. The characteristics of these natural substrates can greatly influence the types of organisms that can thrive in a particular habitat.

Tagging of Pacific predators refers to research and conservation efforts aimed at tracking and studying the behavior, movements, and population dynamics of various predatory species in the Pacific Ocean. This can include sharks, tuna, sea lions, and other apex predators that play a vital role in marine ecosystems. Researchers typically use various types of tagging methods, such as: 1. **Acoustic Tags**: These tags emit sound signals and can be detected by underwater receivers.

In biology, "test" can refer to several different concepts depending on the context: 1. **Test (invertebrate structure)**: In the context of certain marine organisms, such as echinoderms and some protozoans, a "test" refers to a hard or protective outer covering or shell. For example, the tests of foraminifera are the shells made of calcium carbonate that these organisms use for protection and buoyancy in aquatic environments.

Teuthology is the scientific study of cephalopods, which are a class of mollusks that include squids, octopuses, cuttlefish, and nautiluses. The word "teuthology" is derived from the Greek words "teuthis," meaning squid, and "logos," meaning study or discourse. Researchers in this field focus on various aspects of cephalopods, including their biology, behavior, ecology, evolution, and physiology.

The Underwater Association typically refers to organizations or groups that are involved in activities related to underwater exploration, conservation, or sports. These can include scuba diving, marine biology, underwater photography, and environmental advocacy aimed at protecting underwater ecosystems. However, there might also be specific organizations or clubs with that exact name or similar variations in various regions, focusing on various aspects of underwater activities.

The United States Marine Mammal Program is a program typically managed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) under the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). Its primary focus is the conservation and management of marine mammal populations, including species such as whales, dolphins, seals, and sea lions. The program involves research, monitoring, habitat protection, and collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of marine mammal populations and their habitats.

The USA Marine Biological Institute, commonly referred to as the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL), is a research institution focused on marine biology and related fields. It is located in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, and is renowned for its contributions to biological research, particularly in the areas of marine sciences, ecology, and biomedical research. The MBL is noted for its collaborative research environment and has a long history of scientific discovery, dating back to its founding in 1888.

The Western Society of Naturalists (WSN) is a professional organization that focuses on promoting the study and conservation of natural history, particularly in the western United States and adjacent regions. Founded in 1923, the society provides a platform for researchers, educators, and students to share their work, discuss findings, and collaborate on issues related to ecology, biodiversity, and conservation. The WSN hosts annual meetings where members can present research, network, and attend workshops.