Photo by Padre Island Madre
A 2-Minute Radio Feature with Harte Research Institute Director of Community Engagement Jace Tunnell
What is that?
Where did that come from?
Those are the questions beachgoers ask every day along the Gulf Coast when they encounter strange marine life or unexpected debris washed ashore.
The Beachcombing Report answers those questions.
Hosted by Jace Tunnell, this 2-minute radio feature explores fascinating finds from Texas beaches and connects them to the bigger story of Gulf ecology, ocean health, and coastal communities.
Each segment blends:
- A compelling real-world discovery
- Clear, engaging science
- Timely environmental context
- A sense of curiosity and wonder

Octopus Rescue
Jace rescues a cold-stunned octopus on a Texas beach after a cold front.

Sponge Crabs
Find out why sponge crabs are such an amazing species and why finding them is a surprise for many beachcombers.

Box Jellyfish
The Texas coast is full of surprises and Jace Tunnell found on when he spotted an Atlantic box jellyfish.
For more episodes
About the Host
Jace Tunnell is the Director of Community Engagement at the Harte Research Institute at Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi. He specializes in translating marine science into stories that connect people to the coast. Through field discoveries and public engagement, he helps listeners better understand the dynamic ecosystems of the Gulf.