Our Mississippi Home

Whale Sharks Along The Coast? Searching for the World’s Largest Fish

Published

2 years ago

August 2, 2023

www.ourmshome.com – University of Southern Mississippi – 2023-08-02 09:10:21

SUMMARY: Whale sharks, despite their name, are actually fish and not sharks. They have gills and do not have teeth like other sharks. They feed on plankton and fish eggs to maintain their large size. The University of Southern Mississippi has been conducting research on whale shark biology in the northern Gulf of Mexico since 2003. They have found that these creatures are present in the Gulf on a routine basis, with most encounters being solitary and some involving aggregations of up to 200 individuals. The public’s involvement has been crucial in the success of the research. The recent sightings of whale sharks in nearshore waters along the Florida panhandle are unusual and driven by changes in water temperature. Research efforts involve tagging the animals with satellite tags to monitor their long-term movements. The public can help by reporting sightings and providing information on the encounter, estimated size, and behavior of the whale shark.

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Our Mississippi Home

The Other Passionflower | Our Mississippi Home

Published

1 day ago

July 5, 2025

Staff Editor

ourmshome.com – Mark W. LaSalle, Ph.D. – 2025-07-05 14:00:00

SUMMARY: Yellow Passionflower (Passiflora lutea) is a delicate, smaller-flowered vine compared to its purple relative, Passiflora incarnata, yet it adds elegant beauty to landscapes. Its flowers, arranged along the vine’s long petioles, appear to float and feature dramatic structures inspired by Christian symbolism. Both species are native to the southeastern U.S. and support butterflies like the Gulf Fritillary and Variegated Fritillary. The vine also serves as a host for various insects and the rare Anthemurgus passiflorae bee, studied by Applied Community Ecology. Easy to grow, Yellow Passionflower attracts wildlife, enriches ecosystems, and thrives in home gardens despite occasional butterfly herbivory.

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Our Mississippi Home

Why Mississippians Love Independence Day

Published

3 days ago

July 3, 2025

Staff Editor

ourmshome.com – Allyson Alford – 2025-07-03 14:00:00

SUMMARY: In Mississippi, the Fourth of July is a deeply personal celebration blending patriotism, family, faith, and tradition. It centers on family gatherings—backyard cookouts, reunions, and church services that honor freedom and faith together. Food is essential, featuring smoked ribs and banana pudding, while fireworks light up small towns and front porches. Local parades with handmade floats showcase community pride, reflecting a heartfelt connection to country and home. Beyond festivities, many Mississippians pause to reflect on freedom’s meaning and ongoing work for progress. The holiday embodies unity, gratitude, and hope, making it a cherished, annually celebrated occasion.

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Our Mississippi Home

Mississippi Magic in July: Where to Watch Fireworks in 2025

Published

4 days ago

July 2, 2025

Staff Editor

ourmshome.com – Meredith Biesinger – 2025-07-02 09:00:00

SUMMARY: Mississippi’s 2025 Fourth of July celebrations promise vibrant, family-friendly fireworks across the state. Coastal towns include Biloxi’s Big Fireworks Show on July 4, Gulfport’s beachside display on July 5, and Ocean Springs’ festivities on July 3. In Central Mississippi, Jackson hosts the Pepsi Pops Fireworks on July 3, Brandon’s patriotic festival is on July 4, and Flowood’s Red, White & Blues Festival kicks off on June 28. Northern Mississippi features Oxford’s Freedom Fest and Tupelo’s All-American Celebration both on July 4. Delta and Western Mississippi, along with South Mississippi & Pine Belt, offer riverfront and park fireworks from July 3-4. Celebrate with light and Southern charm!

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