Podocorynoides minima

<p>A new study suggests that male zebra finches prioritize winning a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/female-zebra-finches-choose-mates-based-on-their-dialects/">mate</a> above all other tasks, and that these intentions are reflected in dopamine-releasing brain cells.</p>



<p>The researchers found that the presence of a potential mate causes the males to drop what they are doing immediately shift their focus.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-priorities">Shifting priorities</h2>



<p>A male zebra finch is often engrossed in a task like finding water or refining the song taught to him by his father. The study shows that these activities quickly take a backseat the moment he perceives the proximity of a female.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study was co-authored by Dr. Vikram Gadagkar, a lead investigator at Columbia’s <a href="https://zuckermaninstitute.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zuckerman Institute</a>, and graduate student Andrea Roeser of Cornell University..</p>



<p>“The males stop worrying about anything else and, for the first time, we have found signs of that re-prioritization in the behavior of specific brain cells,” said Dr. Gadagkar.</p>



<p>“Our findings could help explain what our brains are doing when they shift gears as different opportunities arise and as our priorities change."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dopamine-signals-nbsp">Dopamine signals&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Historically, Dr. Gadagkar and his team have been tracking male zebra finches as they practiced their songs to serenade females.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers found that when a bird made a mistake while rehearsing, there was a notable decline in the dopamine - a chemical signal generated by particular brain cells.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Dopamine seems to function as an internal error signal, helping the bird to realize that it has made a blunder and did not quite replicate the song it had memorized,” said Dr. Gadagkar.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Previously, the researchers had found that when birds get the song right, dopamine production is boosted and acts as an internal reward signal for their good performance.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For the current study, the researchers measured variations in dopamine in situations where a bird must choose between several objectives such as practicing its song, finding water, or pursuing a mate.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-one-track-mind">One-track mind</h2>



<p>The experts discovered that the dopamine error signals, which previously played a role in tasks like finding water or practicing songs, were notably muted when courtship was in the picture.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In addition, the dopamine reward signal was amplified when the bird's song succeeded in fetching return calls from a female.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-evaluation-system-nbsp">Self-evaluation system&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“We think this is the first demonstration of a socially driven shift of dopaminergic error signals,” said Dr. Gadagkar.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The big idea here is that your self-evaluation system, which you're using to learn when you're practicing, might be dialed down or switched off when you're performing and your dopamine system instead becomes primed to receiving social feedback.”&nbsp;&nbsp;<br></p>



<p>“A big question for us now is whether these systems may be widely at play when it comes to learning many kinds of behaviors, including speaking, singing, playing an instrument and all kinds of behaviors where learning depends on internal self evaluations."</p>



<p>“Now I want to know if this same circuitry might be much more general-purpose than anyone previously had thought.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-zebra-finch-courtship-nbsp">More about zebra finch courtship&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Zebra finches, native to the Central Australian grasslands, exhibit unique and fascinating courtship behaviors which are integral for mate selection and bonding.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-male-initiation">Male initiation</h3>



<p>Male zebra finches typically initiate the courtship process. During this phase, the males showcase their vitality and genetic fitness to attract potential female partners. They employ a combination of visual and auditory displays, including brightly colored feathers, dynamic dances, and melodic songs.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-courtship-song">Courtship song</h3>



<p>One of the most distinctive elements in their courtship is the male's song. Each male zebra finch develops a unique song during their juvenile stage, primarily learned from their fathers or other adult males within the vicinity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The courtship song is more complex and structured compared to their regular communication chirps. Males sing to attract females, with each song being distinctive, allowing the females to identify and choose their preferred mates.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dance-display">Dance display</h3>



<p>Apart from singing, male zebra finches also engage in a dance display. They puff up their chests, flutter their wings, and hop around to garner attention from the females.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This dance, paired with their vibrant songs, creates a comprehensive display designed to entice and woo potential mates.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-female-selection">Female selection</h3>



<p>Female zebra finches play a critical role in mate selection. They evaluate the males based on their songs and displays, choosing a partner whose traits are most appealing or suitable for producing offspring.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Females may consider the complexity, volume, and pitch of the male's song, as well as their overall health and vigor, before making a selection.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bond-formation">Bond formation</h3>



<p>Once a female selects a mate, the pair forms a strong bond, often mating for life. This bond is reinforced through mutual grooming, feeding, and coordinated activities. The strong partnership ensures collaborative efforts in building nests, incubating eggs, and raising their offspring.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nesting-behavior">Nesting behavior</h3>



<p>After the courtship and bonding, the pair engage in nesting behaviors. Male zebra finches actively participate in nest-building, collecting materials like twigs and feathers to construct a safe and comfortable environment for their eggs and future chicks.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06580-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Love on the brain: Male zebra finches drop everything to pursue a mate

A new study suggests that male zebra finches prioritize winning...

<p>In a surprising new study, scientists have identified water fleas as a potential solution to the global water crisis.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research suggests that these tiny creatures might be the key to cleaning persistent chemical pollutants from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-report-wastewater-is-a-hidden-solution-to-the-climate-crisis/">wastewater</a>, making it safer for industrial, agricultural, and domestic use.</p>



<p>“This novel nature-inspired technology provides a potentially revolutionary process for sustainably removing persistent chemical pollutants from wastewater," said study lead author Muhammad Abdullahi of the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/index.aspx">University of Birmingham</a>. "By preventing these chemicals from being discharged, we can protect our environment and biodiversity.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-water-crisis">Global water crisis</h2>



<p>The world is currently facing a severe water crisis, which can be attributed to rapid urbanization, booming populations, unsound food production practices, and climate change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Due to these conditions, sustainable water management is urgently needed for the well-being of society, economy, and environment.</p>



<p>However, one of the significant challenges in wastewater management is the inability to effectively remove persistent chemical pollutants from domestic and industrial processes.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wastewater-treatment-nbsp">Wastewater treatment&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Current wastewater treatment methods often fall short, allowing these pollutants to seep into rivers, reservoirs, irrigation systems, and aquifers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This results in the harmful entry of chemicals into the human food chain and water supply, endangering the health of approximately 92 million people annually.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-potential-of-daphnia">The potential of Daphnia</h2>



<p>Daphnia, commonly known as water fleas, may provide us with a remarkable new clean water solution.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In the Birmingham study, the researchers have found a way to use water fleas to remove pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and industrial chemicals from wastewater without producing the harmful byproducts associated with present-day technologies.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Our profound understanding of water flea biology enabled us to pioneer a nature-inspired tertiary wastewater treatment technology. This refines municipal wastewater effluent and safeguards the ecological health of our rivers," said study senior author Professor Luisa Orsini.</p>



<p>“The water flea's remarkable ability to remain dormant for centuries allows scientists to revive dormant populations that endured varying historical pollution pressures. Leveraging this trait, researchers sourced strains with diverse tolerances to chemical pollutants, incorporating them into the technology.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resurrecting-water-fleas">Resurrecting water fleas</h2>



<p>Using specialized technology, the team has successfully integrated populations of water fleas into wastewater treatment plants.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The uniqueness lies in the strain selection – by "resurrecting" water fleas from past environments, the experts have identified strains that have been historically resilient to different pollution pressures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-implications-nbsp">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study reveals the efficiency of four distinct water flea strains in removing a variety of pollutants, such as diclofenac, atrazine, arsenic, and PFOS (industrial chemicals).</p>



<p>“Our technology could improve the quality of wastewater effluent - meeting current and upcoming regulatory requirements to produce reusable water suitable for irrigation, industrial applications, and household use," said study co-author Dr. Mohamed Abdallah.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"By preventing persistent chemicals from entering waterways, we can also prevent environmental pollution.”</p>



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Water fleas may be the solution to our global water crisis

In a surprising new study, scientists have identified water fleas...

<p>Decreasing biodiversity, particularly in tropical rainforests, has a direct impact on the prevalence of viruses, according to a study led by the <a href="https://www.izw-berlin.de/en/home.html">Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research</a>.</p>



<p>Published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.66550"><em>eLife</em></a>, the research demonstrates that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazon-animals-will-suffer-as-the-rainforest-turns-into-savanna/">rainforest</a> destruction leads to reduced diversity in mosquito species. This paves the way for more resilient mosquito species - and the viruses they carry - to become dominant.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



<p>The researchers set out to investigate how environmental changes, biodiversity loss, and the spread of pathogens may be connected.</p>



<p>The study was led by Professor Sandra Junglen, leader of the Ecology and Evolution of Arboviruses research group at <a href="https://virologie-ccm.charite.de/en/">Charité's Institute of Virology</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-research-was-conducted-nbsp">How the research was conducted&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The research team executed their study in and around Taï National Park in Côte d’Ivoire, encompassing a diverse array of land uses, from untouched rainforests to human settlements.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We identified the species of mosquitoes we had caught and tested them for viral infections,” explained study first author Kyra Hermanns.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Then we looked at how the composition of mosquito species differs across the different land use types, where certain viruses are present, and how prevalent they are.”</p>



<p>In a healthy ecosystem such as a rainforest, many different viruses are present due to the wide variety of animal species - which act as hosts.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-researchers-learned-nbsp">What the researchers learned&nbsp;</h2>



<p>According to Junglen, the team identified 49 virus species, with the majority found in undisturbed habitats. However, certain mosquito species adapted efficiently to cleared areas, bringing along their respective viruses.</p>



<p>"Most of the 49 different virus species were relatively rare in the areas studied. However, nine of them were commonly found in multiple habitats, with the prevalence of five virus species increasing in habitats that had been disturbed and reaching the highest figures in human settlements," said Junglen.</p>



<p>“This means that the clearing of tropical rainforests causes a decrease in the diversity of mosquito species, which changes the composition of host types. Some resilient mosquito species have multiplied very successfully in the cleared areas, bringing their viruses with them," explained the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prevalence-of-viruses-nbsp">Prevalence of viruses&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The composition of a given community of species has a direct effect on the prevalence of viruses: “If one host species is very abundant, it is easier for viruses to spread,” said Junglen.</p>



<p>“All of the viruses we found to be more common were demonstrated to be present in a certain mosquito species."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The viruses belong to different families and have different properties. That means we were able to show for the first time that the spread of the viruses is attributable not to a close genetic relationship, but to the characteristics of their hosts – especially those mosquito species that adapt well to changing environmental conditions in habitats that have been disturbed.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-implications-nbsp">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Although the discovered viruses currently pose no threat to humans, the study sheds light on the dynamics of infectious diseases.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Our study makes clear just how important biodiversity is, and that decreasing biodiversity makes it easier for certain viruses to thrive because it causes their hosts to become more abundant,” said Junglen.</p>



<p>“Previously, these kinds of processes were studied almost exclusively using individual pathogens and individual hosts. Now we have a more complete picture that we can use for further research."</p>



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Biodiversity loss promotes the spread of viruses

Decreasing biodiversity, particularly in tropical rainforests, has a direct impact...

Reindeer,Roaming,On,Svalbard,Meadow

<p>The Svalbard reindeer, among all reindeer subspecies, stands out for its high level of inbreeding and notably low genetic diversity.</p>



<p>Around 7,000 to 8,000 years ago, the first <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reindeer-slowing-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reindeers</a> made their journey to Svalbard, likely traversing from Russia via Novaya Zemlya and the islands of Franz Josef Land. Starting perhaps with just a handful, their arrival on the Arctic archipelago might seem a precarious foundation based on evolutionary theory. </p>



<p>High inbreeding rates can lead to an accumulation of damaging genetic mutations which can cause disease and decrease survival rates.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-rapidly-to-extreme-environments">Adapting rapidly to extreme environments</h2>



<p>Nicolas Dussex, a postdoctoral researcher from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology's <a href="https://www.ntnu.edu/inh/department-of-natural-history" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(NTNU) Department of Natural History</a>, studied this phenomenon more closely. Dussex noted that despite these initial challenges, the Svalbard reindeer has not only survived but thrived. Their population now exceeds 20,000 animals. </p>



<p>Dussex highlights their remarkable evolution to adapt to the extreme Arctic conditions. Compared to other northern reindeer and caribou subspecies, they are smaller, have shorter legs, can digest mosses in the absence of lichens, and can adjust their circadian rhythm to suit the drastic seasonal changes of Svalbard.</p>



<p>A collaborative research initiative involving NTNU and other institutions has delved deeper into the genetic makeup of the Svalbard reindeer. By examining genetic samples from 91 reindeer, the study aimed to uncover differences between them and their mainland relatives. </p>



<p>Professor Michael D. Martin, from NTNU’s Department of Natural History, remarked on the valuable insights that can be gleaned from studying such isolated populations, especially considering the Svalbard reindeer's history of near extinction in the early 1900s due to excessive hunting.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-staving-off-extinction-by-inbreeding">Staving off extinction by inbreeding</h2>



<p>This near brush with extinction, resulting in only a few survivors, is termed as a 'bottleneck' in population biology. Such a scenario typically spells doom for a species due to increased inbreeding. </p>



<p>However, this inbreeding might have a silver lining. Known as 'purging', this process can potentially help eliminate harmful mutations. As harmful mutations manifest more rapidly in inbred populations, affected offspring tend to reproduce less, ensuring these damaging genes are less likely to be passed on. Dussex pointed out the paradox that, in the long run, inbreeding can have positive effects.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parallels-found-in-other-animal-species">Parallels found in other animal species</h2>



<p>The research also drew parallels with New Zealand's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-insights-will-help-protect-the-kakapo-parrot/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kakapo parrots</a>, which, after a long period of isolation and inbreeding, showed signs of harmful genetic variants being eradicated from their population.</p>



<p>Brage Bremset Hansen, a senior researcher at NTNU and the <a href="https://www.nina.no/english/Home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Norwegian Institute for Nature Research</a>, emphasized the significance of these findings for population management and broader genetic studies. He cited the good genetic health of the Svalbard reindeer, despite the potential harmful mutations.</p>



<p>However, Dussex shared that there remain unanswered questions regarding the speed at which these mutations are counteracted, either over short spans of centuries or over millennia. This is a research area they're keen to expand upon, utilizing DNA samples from ancient bone remains and antlers.</p>



<p>Moreover, the team is also invested in understanding the beneficial mutations that have allowed the reindeer to thrive in Svalbard's unique environment. Researcher Mathilde Le Moullec has been instrumental in this, gathering most of the bone samples from across Svalbard.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overcoming-speed-of-climate-change">Overcoming speed of climate change</h2>



<p>A looming threat to these reindeers, however, is the accelerating pace of climate change. As Svalbard faces some of the fastest climate change rates worldwide, there's uncertainty over the reindeer's adaptability to the altered conditions. The rapid transformations in snow cover and vegetation could pose significant challenges.</p>



<p>Hansen warned that the adaptability the reindeers showcased after initially colonizing the islands might not extend to the current fast-paced warming. Their diminished genetic variation could be a stumbling block.</p>



<p>This situation could reflect the struggles of many terrestrial animals limited in mobility, as they grapple with the swift and disruptive changes caused by global warming. Yet, Martin remains hopeful, suggesting that this research lays a foundation for a deeper understanding of species adaptation capabilities in ever-shifting environments.</p>



<p>The full study was published at <a href="https://www.cell.com/iscience/fulltext/S2589-0042(23)01888-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iScience</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-inbreeding">More about inbreeding</h2>



<p>Inbreeding, the mating of close relatives, is a phenomenon observed throughout the animal kingdom. It profoundly influences species' genetic diversity and evolutionary trajectory. </p>



<p>Inbreeding acts as a double-edged sword. It can both accentuate detrimental mutations and, paradoxically, can lead to the purging of these harmful alleles from the gene pool. This then enhances a species' adaptation and survival.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Biodiversity Crisis</h3>



<p>Inbreeding typically occurs when populations become isolated or decrease in size, leading to reduced genetic diversity. It increases homozygosity, whereby offspring inherit identical alleles from both parents. </p>



<p>This genetic similarity often brings recessive, harmful mutations to the forefront, causing a range of genetic disorders and decreasing overall fitness and survival rates. </p>



<p>Many species, including the cheetah and the giant panda, are witnessing the detrimental impacts of inbreeding. This is due to their shrinking, isolated populations, and habitat loss. Reduced genetic diversity makes these species more susceptible to diseases and decreases their ability to adapt to environmental changes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Purging and beneficial mutations</h3>



<p>Conversely, inbreeding can also be a mechanism for genetic refinement. As harmful mutations become more pronounced, individuals carrying these mutations are less likely to reproduce, gradually eliminating these deleterious alleles from the population. </p>



<p>As mentioned previously, this process is known as 'purging' and can theoretically lead to more robust populations in the long run. Instances of inbreeding, such as seen in the Svalbard reindeer, illustrate how isolated populations can survive and even thrive despite high levels of inbreeding. They owe their survival to the elimination of harmful genetic variants over time.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Adaptive evolution</h3>



<p>Inbreeding may also expedite the fixation of beneficial mutations within a population, thereby fostering adaptive evolution. </p>



<p>When beneficial alleles arise, inbreeding can help spread these favorable traits quickly throughout the population. This allows the species to adapt more rapidly to their environment. </p>



<p>This is particularly significant in isolated or newly established populations, where rapid adaptation can be crucial for survival.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Inbreeding management</h3>



<p>Recognizing the complex impacts of inbreeding is vital for conservation efforts and biodiversity management. Scientists actively study inbreeding patterns and their consequences to devise strategies for maintaining genetic diversity within endangered populations. </p>



<p>In many cases, interventions like translocations are utilized to introduce new genetic material into inbred populations. This process enhances their genetic health and adaptive potential. </p>



<p>Zoos and wildlife conservation programs often employ careful breeding strategies to prevent inbreeding depression and maintain the genetic vigor of endangered species.</p>



<p>In summary, inbreeding plays a complex, dual role in the animal kingdom. While it often leads to a decline in genetic diversity and can bring harmful mutations to the forefront, it also provides a pathway for the elimination of these deleterious alleles and the amplification of beneficial ones, fostering adaptive evolution. </p>



<p>A nuanced understanding of inbreeding and its impacts is crucial for the effective conservation and management of biodiversity in a rapidly changing world.</p>



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Inbreeding can actually be beneficial for some species in the long run

The Svalbard reindeer, among all reindeer subspecies, stands out for...

<p>In a study recently published by <a href="https://www.colostate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colorado State University</a>, scientists have found that earthworms play a substantial role in the global production of grains and legumes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to the research, earthworms contribute to 6.5% of the worldwide grain yield, which is roughly equivalent to the annual cereal grain production of Russia, the fourth-largest producer globally.</p>



<p>“This is the first effort that I’m aware of that’s trying to take one piece of soil biodiversity and say, ‘OK, this is the value of it; this is what it’s giving us on a global scale,’” said study lead author Dr. Steven Fonte.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earthworms-boost-plant-productivity-nbsp">Earthworms boost plant productivity&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Earthworms promote healthy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-diversity-increases-carbon-storage-in-forest-soils/">soils</a> in different ways. They enhance soil structure, optimize water retention, and enrich the soil by churning organic matter, making essential nutrients more accessible to plants.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In fact, the presence of earthworms has been linked to a surge in plant productivity by an estimated 25 percent.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



<p>The research was conducted by Dr. Fonte, Professor Nathan Mueller, and Marian Hsieh, a doctoral student at CSU.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team arrived at these figures by analyzing various data, including maps that highlight earthworm abundance, soil attributes, fertilizer usage, and crop yields.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grain-production-nbsp">Grain production&nbsp;</h2>



<p>One particularly fascinating revelation was the pronounced influence of earthworms in the grain production of the global south.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Earthworms contribute to 10 percent of the grain yield in Sub-Saharan Africa and eight percent in Latin America and the Caribbean.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earthworm-contribution">Earthworm contribution</h2>



<p>It’s likely the earthworms contributed more in those areas because farmers there tend to have less access to fertilizer and pesticides, explained Dr. Fonte.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Instead, they rely more on earthworm-rich organic matter like manure and crop residues, which help stimulate the beneficial effect earthworms have on plants. “Earthworms are contributing a lot in these areas where we have fewer chemical inputs."&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-soil-biodiversity-nbsp">Soil biodiversity&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Dr. Fonte noted that soil biodiversity has historically been undervalued, and he hopes this work will bring more attention to how healthy soils can have positive, tangible impacts on crops.  &nbsp;</p>



<p> “If we manage our soils in a more sustainable way, we can better harness or leverage this biodiversity and produce more sustainable agroecosystems,” said Dr. Fonte. “This work highlights that potential.” &nbsp;</p>



<p>Dr. Fonte also noted that other recent research has shown that soils contain as much as half the world’s biodiversity, a significant increase from previous estimates of approximately 25 percent.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Soils are just such an intricate habitat,” he said. “But there’s really been very few efforts to understand what that biodiversity means to our global crop yields.”  &nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-implications-nbsp">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



<p>According to Dr. Fonte, insights from this study could also have implications in future efforts to mitigate drought and erosion. For example, he said, earthworms can improve soil porosity, aiding in the beneficial capture and retention of water.  </p>



<p>The researchers emphasized that they are not advocating for anyone to transplant earthworms into places they do not already exist.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Dr. Fonte hopes this work shows how improved management of soil biology in places where earthworms already call home has the potential to enhance agricultural productivity and reduce our reliance on agrochemicals. He said the study marks an important first step.</p>



<p> </p>



<p>“Soils are still this huge, big black box that we don’t fully understand,” said Dr. Fonte. “This work helps show that there’s a lot of opportunity that we’re just kind of ignoring. There are probably other soil organisms that are even more important, especially microbial communities.” &nbsp;</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-41286-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Earthworms are important drivers of global food production

In a study recently published by Colorado State University, scientists...

<p>In a new report from the <a href="https://www.ewg.org/">Environmental Working Group</a> (EWG), researchers have proposed a compelling concept: humans can act as a crucial benchmark for understanding the repercussions of the toxic "forever chemicals" known as PFAS on wildlife.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-human-connection">The human connection</h2>



<p>PFAS, due to their persistent nature, do not just affect humans but also a broad spectrum of species worldwide.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Dr. David Andrews, a senior scientist at EWG, emphasized that humans act as an "early warning system" to comprehend how these chemicals might influence wildlife in their natural habitats.</p>



<p>“PFAS pollution is not just a problem for humans,” said Dr. Andrews. “It’s a problem for species across the globe. This new paper delves into how humans serve as an early warning system for understanding how PFAS may impact other living creatures in the environment.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forever-chemicals">Forever chemicals</h2>



<p>Studies have associated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/single-fish-serving-may-contain-a-month-of-forever-chemicals/">forever chemicals</a> with a number of adverse effects in both humans and laboratory animals.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These range from immune system damage, reproductive and fetal development disruptions, hormone imbalances, to heightened cancer risks.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-data-collection">Data collection</h2>



<p>Notably, EWG’s research methods allow for the collection of data without causing harm to animals, especially the endangered ones.</p>



<p>Ken Cook, president of EWG, emphasized their 25-year battle against PFAS contamination.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“EWG researchers have analyzed scientific studies, conducted our own investigations, and plotted where people are exposed to toxic PFAS,” said Cook.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Now we’ve shown that humans might signal how these toxic chemicals affect the bodies of polluted animals in almost every corner of the world.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-crisis">Global crisis</h2>



<p>Endangered animals, already grappling with challenges like pollution, habitat erosion, and exploitation, now face the menace of PFAS. The global impact of the PFAS crisis is substantial.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The PFAS crisis is global,” said Dr. Alexis Temkin, a toxicologist at EWG. “Like humans, wildlife are exposed to multiple PFAS at a time, through the diet, air, water and soil, highlighting the need to tackle these persistent and toxic chemicals as a class.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-threats-nbsp">Wildlife threats&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Recent studies have shown alarming effects of PFAS on species like the North Carolina alligators and sea turtles in the north Pacific.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research on alligators showed that elevated levels of PFAS were associated with higher occurrences of skin lesions, as well as wounds that did not heal properly and became infected.</p>



<p>The study on sea turtles demonstrated that animals are vulnerable to the effects of PFAS exposure at every stage, from their eggs to immune systems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pfas-wildlife-map">PFAS wildlife map</h2>



<p>EWG's updated wildlife map, capturing over 200 peer-reviewed studies, now documents more than 120 unique PFAS compounds found in 625 animal species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The interactive map showcases a variety of animals, from amphibians and fish to large mammals like polar bears.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The wildlife map is not an exhaustive catalog of all animal studies but mostly those published in the past few years," said Dr. Andrews.</p>



<p>"PFAS are ubiquitous, and this first-of-its-kind map clearly captures the extent to which PFAS have contaminated wildlife around the globe."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lingering-effects-nbsp">Lingering effects&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The persistence of PFAS in the body and environment is troubling. With these chemicals found in almost everyone, including infants, the health implications cannot be ignored.&nbsp;</p>



<p>PFAS exposure has been connected to various health issues in humans, such as weakened immune systems and heightened cancer risks.</p>



<p>PFAS's widespread use, found in consumer goods ranging from cosmetics and food packaging to firefighting foams, underscores the massive challenge of addressing this contamination.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-call-for-action">Call for action</h2>



<p>Dr. Tasha Stoiber, a senior scientist at EWG, warns that current methods of PFAS disposal might lead to even more pollution, with the consequences echoing throughout the food chain. She calls for immediate action to halt all non-essential PFAS applications.</p>



<p>“Our research found that the most common methods we have for getting rid of PFAS may end up leading to further pollution,” said Dr. Stoiber.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“And we can expect that contamination to ripple through the food chain, potentially affecting even more species, including humans."&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Our choice is either to keep polluting the planet or take immediate action to stop all nonessential uses of PFAS."&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-industrial-pollution">Industrial pollution</h2>



<p>According to the experts, considering the health risks associated with PFAS exposure, it is important to try to minimize exposure wherever possible.</p>



<p>“We need to accelerate - not delay - efforts to turn off the tap of PFAS pollution from industrial sources,” said Scott Faber, EWG’s senior vice president for government affairs.</p>



<p>“For decades, polluters have with impunity dumped as much PFAS as they wanted into our air, rivers, streams, lakes and bays."</p>



<p>“The Biden Environmental Protection Agency must move faster and not rely on cash-strapped state regulators to turn off the tap.”</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165939"><em>Science of The Total Environment</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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PFAS crisis: Humans are an early warning system for wildlife impacts

In a new report from the Environmental Working Group (EWG),...

<p>A recent study on Caribbean parrots has revealed that species believed to be unique to specific islands were once more prevalent and varied than previously thought.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research helps to explain why parrots, particularly those on islands, have become the globe's most endangered bird group.</p>



<p>"Humans did not arrive on most of the world’s islands until relatively recently, making islands favorable places for disentangling the timing and magnitude of natural and anthropogenic impacts on species diversity and distributions," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Here, we focus on Amazona parrots in the Caribbean, which have close relationships with humans."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-the-survivors">Protecting the survivors</h2>



<p>In 1492, during Christopher Columbus' maiden journey to the Caribbean, parrot flocks were so abundant that they reportedly "obscured the sun."&nbsp;</p>



<p>But today, over half of the Caribbean parrot species, ranging from macaws to parrotlets, are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-quarter-of-earths-species-may-be-extinct-by-2010/">extinct</a>. The task of conserving the surviving species has been hindered by the limited knowledge of their historical distributions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“People have always been obsessed with parrots,” said study lead author Jessica Oswald, a senior biologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Forensics Lab.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Indigenous peoples have moved parrots across continents and between islands for thousands of years. Later, European colonists continued that practice, and we’re still moving them around today.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unclear-origins">Unclear origins</h2>



<p>According to the researchers, centuries of trade have made it difficult to know how parrots wound up where they are now. Half of the 24 parrot species that currently live in the Caribbean were introduced from other areas, and it’s unclear whether native parrots evolved on the islands they inhabit or were similarly transported there.</p>



<p>“There are records of parrots being kept in homes, where they were valued for their feathers and, in some cases, potentially as a source of food,” said study senior author Michelle LeFebvre from the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/">Florida Museum of Natural History</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-fossil-species">Identifying fossil species</h2>



<p>Parrots are often discovered at archaeological sites, and they have a remarkable fossil record in the Caribbean.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Previously, the fragmented nature of these remains made it impossible to identify the fossil species. But now, recent advancements in DNA technology have made it possible.&nbsp;</p>



<p>David Steadman, a retired curator of ornithology, collaborated with Oswald, who successfully sequenced DNA from a 2,500-year-old extinct Caribbean bird.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“For me, the single most satisfying thing about this project is we can use fossils in ways that weren’t even imaginable when they came out of the ground,” said Steadman.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-sequencing">Genetic sequencing</h2>



<p>Using genetic sequencing methods, the experts established connections between extinct flightless Caribbean birds and those in Africa and New Zealand.</p>



<p>The research focused mainly on the Cuban and Hispaniolan parrots of the Amazona genus.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While the Cuban parrot species currently thrives in select areas of the Caribbean, the Hispaniolan species faces potential extinction, restricted to its namesake island.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-extinctions-nbsp">Dark extinctions&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The DNA analysis led to some surprising revelations. For example, fossils from Bahamian sites previously assumed to belong to the more prevalent Cuban parrots were actually from Hispaniolan parrots.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This suggests that Hispaniolan parrots once ranged through the Bahamas before humans reached the islands.</p>



<p>“One of the striking things about this study is the discovery of what could be considered dark extinctions,” LeFebvre said. “We’re learning about diversity we didn’t even know existed until we took a closer look at museum specimens.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-human-factor">The human factor</h2>



<p>The study also illuminates the human role in species distribution. According to Oswald, knowing where species once thrived is the first step to conserving what’s left of their diversity.</p>



<p>“We have to think about what we consider to be natural,” she said. “People have been altering the natural world for thousands of years, and species that we think are endemic to certain areas might be the product of recent range loss due to humans."</p>



<p>"It takes paleontologists, archaeologists, evolutionary biologists and museum scientists all working together to really understand the long-term role of humans on diversity change.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2301128120"><em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em></a>.</p>



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Humans have relocated Caribbean parrots for thousands of years

A recent study on Caribbean parrots has revealed that species...

Podocorynoides minima

Taxonomic tree: