This is an LA Times Studios podcast.

Hi, I'm Angelica Coronado at LA Times Studios.

Here are some of the top headlines from the Los Angeles Times.

The Sia de Mala Bank in the Indian Ocean is one of the most important places on Earth

that almost no one knows about.

Reporter Ian Urbina reveals that this huge underwater seagrass field is a crucial carbon sink

and a biodiversity hotspot.

The size of Switzerland, this bank is a safe haven for turtles, sharks, and even blue whales,

but it's being destroyed, as unregulated and unchecked industrial fishing fleets are tearing through this ecological treasure.

Seagrass absorbs carbon 35 times faster than rainforests, protects coastlines, and provides homes for endangered species.

Yet bottom trawlers and shark finners are decimating it, while seabed miners eye its resources.

Scientists warn that if nothing is done, this critical marine ecosystem could be lost forever. A recent study has some alarming results about firefighters exposed to the Palisades and

Eaton fires.

Salvador Hernandez reports that they had lead and mercury levels in their blood that are much

higher than safe limits.

These fires burned homes, cars, and chemicals, leaving toxins in the air that crept into

their bodies. The findings are part of a longer-term LA fire health study that will look into the

dangers first responders face with prolonged exposure to these toxins. Firefighters often risk exposure

to chemicals, but typically only for a few hours, instead of the days spent fighting the recent fires.

Researchers are hopeful the results will help improve safety measures and the gear used in battling fires in the future.

Apple is expanding further into Culver City with a massive new office complex.

Reporters Roger Vincent and Wendy Lee say the tech giant is charging full speed ahead,

...