Naesiotus pachys

<p>The long-held belief that jellyfish are simple creatures with limited cognitive abilities has been dramatically overturned.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A new study from the <a href="https://www.ku.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Copenhagen</a> reveals that Caribbean box jellyfish are far more advanced than previously thought, displaying complex learning abilities despite their rudimentary nervous systems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-so-simple-nbsp">Not so simple&nbsp;</h2>



<p>While jellyfish have inhabited our planet for over 500 million years, their reputation has mostly been that of uncomplicated beings.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This notion has been largely based on their primitive nervous systems, particularly when compared to organisms with advanced centralized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nutrition-for-neurons-the-role-of-breast-milk-in-shaping-our-brains/">brains</a>. The research, however, challenges this perspective.</p>



<p>"It was once presumed that jellyfish can only manage the simplest forms of learning, including habituation – i.e., the ability to get used to a certain stimulation, such as a constant sound or constant touch," said study co-author Professor Anders Garm.</p>



<p>"Now, we see that jellyfish have a much more refined ability to learn, and that they can actually learn from their mistakes. And in doing so, modify their behavior."</p>



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



<p>The focus of this research was the Caribbean box jellyfish, Tripedalia cystophora. Despite having only about a thousand nerve cells, these jellyfish displayed sophisticated learning mechanisms that allowed them to adapt their behavior based on experiences. Remarkably, they achieve this advanced learning at a rate similar to that of fruit flies and mice.</p>



<p>The team's experiments highlighted how these jellyfish use visual contrasts to gauge their distance from mangrove roots, enabling them to avoid potential harm.&nbsp;</p>



<p>What's even more fascinating is their ability to adjust their behavior based on changes in contrast conditions due to various environmental factors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-associative-learning-nbsp">Associative learning&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"Our experiments show that contrast, i.e., how dark the root is in relation to the water, is used by the jellyfish to assess distances to roots, which allows them to swim away at just the right moment. Even more interesting is that the relationship between distance and contrast changes on a daily basis due to rainwater, algae and wave action," said Professor Garm.</p>



<p>"We can see that as each new day of hunting begins, box jellyfish learn from the current contrasts by combining visual impressions and sensations during evasive maneuvers that fail."</p>



<p>"So, despite having a mere one thousand nerve cells – our brains have roughly 100 billion – they can connect temporal convergences of various impressions and learn a connection – or what we call associative learning. And they actually learn about as quickly as advanced animals like fruit flies and mice."</p>



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



<p>This research is redefining our understanding of the capabilities of simple nervous systems. It presents the intriguing idea that advanced learning might have been a fundamental evolutionary advantage from the very inception of nervous systems.</p>



<p>"For fundamental neuroscience, this is pretty big news. It provides a new perspective on what can be done with a simple nervous system. This suggests that advanced learning may have been one of the most important evolutionary benefits of the nervous system from the very beginning," said Garm.</p>



<p>Further studies are now focusing on identifying the specific nerve cells responsible for this learning in jellyfish.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This knowledge could ultimately lead to a broader understanding about memory processes across different species and might even contribute to our comprehension of complex conditions like dementia.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-supermodel-system-nbsp">A supermodel system&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The research team has also shown where the learning is happening in these box jellyfish. This has given them the unique opportunity to study the precise changes that occur in a nerve cell when it is involved in advanced learning.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>"We hope that this can become a supermodel system for looking at cellular processes in the advanced learning of all sorts of animals," said Professor Garm.</p>



<p>"We are now in the process of trying to pinpoint exactly which cells are involved in learning and memory formation. Upon doing so, we will be able to go in and look at what structural and physiological changes occur in the cells as learning takes place."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-how-memory-works-nbsp">Learning how memory works&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Professor Garm said that the team will eventually look for the same mechanisms in other animals, to see if this is how memory works in general.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Understanding something as enigmatic and immensely complex as the brain is in itself an absolutely amazing thing. But there are unimaginably many useful possibilities."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"One major problem in the future will undoubtedly be various forms of dementia. I don’t claim that we are finding the cure for dementia, but if we can gain a better understanding of what memory is, which is a central problem in dementia, we may be able to lay a building block to better understand the disease and perhaps counteract it."</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2023.08.056" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Current Biology</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Jellyfish are capable of more complex learning than ever imagined

The long-held belief that jellyfish are simple creatures with limited...

<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-dogs-have-exceptional-learning-capacities/">Dogs</a> may be baffled by our slang and colloquial expressions, but their capacity to grasp human feelings and even parts of our language is remarkable.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Those who love dogs realize that these furry companions offer more than just playing fetch and pleading for snacks. They have evolved into compassionate confidants and crucial contributors to the emotional health of their owners.</p>



<p>Recently, the language tutoring company <a href="https://preply.com/">Preply</a> conducted a survey involving more than 1,000 dog owners in America to delve deeper into the interaction between humans and dogs, unveiling the complexities of their communication skills and ways of connecting with humans.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-insights-from-the-survey-nbsp">Key insights from the survey&nbsp;</h2>



<ol>
<li>The typical American dog comprehends 18 words used by humans.</li>



<li>For one in three owners, dogs are more emotionally attuned to them than their partners.</li>



<li>77 percent of those surveyed feel their dogs truly listen to them.</li>



<li>Beyond basic commands, the word “love” tops the list of human words understood by dogs.</li>



<li>Around one-third of owners note their dogs’ excitement during FaceTime calls.</li>
</ol>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-recognizing-human-language-nbsp">Dogs recognizing human language&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The survey revealed that the average dog in America understands 18 words, a vocabulary extending beyond the usual commands. Interestingly, “love” and “happy” are among the recognized words, indicating dogs’ awareness of affectionate and positive terms.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These findings add another layer to our comprehension of dogs’ cognitive abilities, suggesting that a profound emotional connection exists between dogs and humans.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A substantial 66 percent of those surveyed perceive their dogs more as humans than pets, showcasing the familial status of dogs in households.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-top-ten-words">Top ten words</h2>



<p>Here are the top 10 words that the dogs recognize (excluding widely used commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “outside” etc.):</p>



<ol>
<li>Love</li>



<li>Car</li>



<li>Cookie</li>



<li>Bye-bye</li>



<li>Baby</li>



<li>Grandma</li>



<li>Home&nbsp;</li>



<li>Ice cream</li>



<li>TV</li>



<li>Happy</li>
</ol>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-communication-beyond-words-nbsp">Communication beyond words&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The essence of communication is deeply rooted in the desire for connection, which is evident in the interactions between dogs and their owners.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The survey demonstrates that communication transcends words, fostering a deep emotional understanding, acknowledged by both dog owners and language enthusiasts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feeling-understood-by-canine-companions-nbsp">Feeling understood by canine companions&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study reveals that dogs serve as empathetic listeners, with nearly half of the owners conversing with their dogs multiple times daily.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The frequency of these dialogues varies across genders and generations, but the outcome remains consistent – 77 percent of owners feel emotionally heard by their dogs. This indicates that dogs offer not just companionship but genuine emotional support.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unparalleled-emotional-understanding">Unparalleled emotional understanding</h2>



<p>The emotional rapport between dogs and humans is clearly unique, with dogs often providing more comfort than human partners.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A notable proportion of both male and female dog owners feel more understood by their dogs than their partners, emphasizing the extraordinary empathetic nature of our four-legged friends.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shared-interests-and-technological-interaction">Shared interests and technological interaction</h2>



<p>The survey also suggests that dogs are attuned to their owners’ interests and technological habits.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A considerable number of dogs exhibit excitement during video calls and react positively to social media sounds, showcasing their connection to our emotional states and experiences, even in the digital realm.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-active-participants-in-communication-nbsp">Active participants in communication&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Thus, the relationship between humans and dogs is significantly influenced by both spoken and emotional language.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Despite their inability to articulate human words or understand our colloquialisms, dogs respond to our emotions and expressions, proving they are active participants in communication rather than just passive recipients of our words.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These findings shed new light on how communication extends beyond spoken language, and could be applied in better understanding how humans learn new languages and devising novel approaches to teach linguistic skills.</p>



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Typical American dog knows 18 words, and love is at the top of the list

Dogs may be baffled by our slang and colloquial expressions,...

Beautiful,Mandrill,Portrait,Closeup,,Baboon,Monkey,With,Colorful,Face,And

<p>In an intriguing new study, researchers from the University of Bristol explored the correlation between the color vision and coloration of primates. </p>



<p>Contrary to popular belief, the study reveals that primate species with superior color vision are not necessarily more likely to exhibit red skin or fur coloration. This disrupts longstanding assumptions, suggesting the need for more nuanced explorations into the evolution of color in primates.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-redefining-the-colorful-paradigm-in-primates">Redefining the colorful paradigm in primates</h2>



<p>Historically, the vividness of primates' skin and fur has been linked to their enhanced color vision. The prevalent belief postulated that the enhanced ability to discern colors, particularly in distinguishing between red and green, has facilitated the evolution of vivid color traits in primates, enabling them to communicate effectively regarding fertility or social rank within their species. </p>



<p>This advanced color visual system is generally considered to have evolved primarily to spot ripe red fruits or nutritious young red leaves among foliage easily. However, this new research has challenged this perspective, exploring the relationship between the color visual system and coloration in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/south-african-primates-face-multiple-threats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a> more thoroughly.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-the-spectrum">Investigating the spectrum</h2>



<p>Lead author Robert MacDonald and his team methodically analyzed various <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-primate-genome-project-reveals-hidden-evolutionary-secrets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primate species</a>, categorizing them based on their colorful traits, such as red skin on the genital region or face and red-orange fur on different parts of the body. </p>



<p>The researchers juxtaposed this color information with each species’ color visual ability, while considering factors such as diurnal or nocturnal lifestyles and the size of the social groups they inhabit. The central inquiry revolved around whether species with advanced color vision were more likely to have red coloration, with control for other potential influencing factors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-the-findings">Implications of the findings</h2>



<p>MacDonald’s findings cast a shadow on the hitherto accepted notions about the evolution of color in primates, asserting that superior color vision does not necessarily correlate with colorful skin or fur. </p>



<p>“The fact that we didn't find that species with better color vision are more likely to be colorful contradicts some long-held assumptions,” states MacDonald, hinting at a potential reshaping of understanding about what colorful red skin or fur is used for in individual species.</p>



<p>This development underscores that while substantial research has investigated primate coloration, the community still lacks a comprehensive understanding of the pressures that have shaped the evolution of color in humanity’s closest relatives. </p>



<p>As MacDonald and his team dissected the association between color vision and coloration, it became evident that the utility of red skin or red-orange fur may pertain more to social communication across various primate species, even those with less developed color vision.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-relevance-of-colorful-primate-study">Broader relevance of colorful primate study</h2>



<p>While primates, compared to other mammals, are exceptions in exhibiting vibrant colorations, the varied hues within primate species serve crucial communicative roles, signaling diverse biological and social information. </p>



<p>Thus, red coloration in the primate world might have evolved not merely as a product of enhanced color vision but rather as a multifunctional tool, serving crucial roles in interspecies communication, which could be unrelated to their ability to perceive color.</p>



<p>The revelation that species with enhanced color vision are not more colorful contradicts widely held beliefs about the relationship between color vision and coloration in primates, and it calls for deeper explorations into the evolutionary pressures and benefits that have driven the development of color in these species.</p>



<p>This research, anchored by Robert MacDonald from the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a> and published in the <a href="https://academic.oup.com/biolinnean/advance-article/doi/10.1093/biolinnean/blad089/7269140" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biological Journal of the Linnean Society</a>, unravels a novel perspective on the relation between color vision and coloration in primates, severing the perceived direct link between enhanced color vision and the development of vibrant red traits. </p>



<p>These new insights necessitate a revisit and reevaluation of existing theories, promoting a deeper understanding of the role and evolution of color within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baboons-sacrifice-sleep-to-meet-lifes-daily-demands/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primate</a> species, shedding light on the myriad unknown facets of our colorful closest relatives in the animal kingdom.</p>



<p>---</p>



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Colorful primates, oddly enough, don't have great color vision

In an intriguing new study, researchers from the University of...

Portrait,Of,A,Male,Bull,White,Rhino,Grazing,In,Kruger

<p>World Rhino Day, <a href="https://www.worldrhinoday.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">celebrated annually</a> on September 22nd, is a global event initiated to generate awareness about the five species of rhinoceros and the myriad of challenges they face. </p>



<p>This special day is pivotal to garnering public support for the conservation of these iconic, yet endangered animals. Rhinos, with their prehistoric appearance and gentle demeanors, are vital components of their ecosystems, contributing to landscape resilience and biodiversity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historical-background-of-world-rhino-day">Historical background of World Rhino Day</h2>



<p>World Rhino Day was first announced by WWF-South Africa in 2010. The day was chosen to enable NGOs, zoos, rhino sanctuaries, and concerned individuals to celebrate rhinos in their distinct manner, highlighting the diverse issues related to their survival. </p>



<p>Since then, it has evolved into a global phenomenon. Various events, activities, and campaigns dedicated to the conservation of rhino species take place around the world.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-species-of-rhinoceros">Species of rhinoceros</h2>



<p>Rhinos belong to the family Rhinocerotidae and are classified into five species, each with unique characteristics and habitats.</p>



<ol type="1" start="1">
<li>White Rhino: Divided into Northern and Southern subspecies, they are the largest of the rhino species.<br></li>



<li>Black Rhino: Smaller than the white rhino, with a prehensile lip adapted for grasping leaves and twigs.<br></li>



<li>Greater One-Horned Rhino: Found in the Indian subcontinent, recognized by a single black horn and armored skin.<br></li>



<li>Sumatran Rhino: The smallest species, living in dense forest habitats in Malaysia and Indonesia.<br></li>



<li>Javan Rhino: The most threatened species with less than 70 individuals remaining. They are primarily found in Ujung Kulon National Park in Java, Indonesia.</li>
</ol>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-importance-of-rhinos">The importance of rhinos</h2>



<p>Rhinos play a crucial ecological role as umbrella and keystone species. This means that their survival benefits numerous other species and contributes to ecosystem balance. </p>



<p>They facilitate nutrient cycling through their dung, promoting plant diversity, and support the survival of other herbivores by modifying vegetation structure. This, in turn, influences the whole ecological web, including predators, scavengers, and decomposers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-to-rhino-survival">Challenges to rhino survival</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-poaching">Poaching</h3>



<p>Rhinos face relentless threats primarily from poaching, driven by the demand for their horns. Rhino horn, composed of keratin (the same material as human hair and nails), is erroneously believed to have medicinal properties in some cultures. This falsehood makes it extremely valuable on the black market.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitat-loss">Habitat loss</h3>



<p>Loss of habitat due to agricultural expansion, human settlements, and infrastructural development further jeopardizes rhino populations by fragmenting and isolating habitats. These unfortunate human-induced circumstances make it challenging for rhinos to access resources and mates.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change">Climate change</h3>



<p>Climate change exacerbates these challenges by altering the availability of food and water and by influencing the range and behavior of other species in the ecosystem. This can have cascading effects on rhino populations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-efforts-and-awareness">Conservation efforts and awareness</h2>



<p>World Rhino Day serves as a platform to underscore the urgent need for concerted global efforts to conserve rhinos. Numerous organizations and individuals collaborate to raise awareness about rhino conservation, undertake fund-raising activities, and work on the ground to protect rhinos from poaching and habitat loss.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anti-poaching-initiatives">Anti-poaching initiatives</h2>



<p>Strategies such as strict law enforcement, community engagement, and advanced technologies like drone surveillance and tracking devices are deployed to combat poaching.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitat-management-and-restoration">Habitat management and restoration</h2>



<p>Conservationists work on habitat management and restoration projects to ensure rhinos have the necessary environments to thrive. These efforts focus on reducing human-wildlife conflict and securing migratory routes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breeding-and-rehabilitation-programs">Breeding and rehabilitation programs</h2>



<p>Sanctuaries and conservation areas facilitate breeding programs, reintroduction, and rehabilitation efforts to enhance genetic diversity and increase population sizes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-education-and-advocacy-on-world-rhino-day">Education and advocacy on World Rhino Day</h2>



<p>World Rhino Day is an opportunity for educational institutions, NGOs, and activists to disseminate information on the significance of rhinos and engage the public in conservation activities. The involvement of local communities is particularly crucial, as their support can greatly contribute to the protection of rhinos and their habitats.</p>



<p>In summary, World Rhino Day symbolizes a global unity in the pursuit of preserving the five species of rhinos. This day serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to protect and conserve these majestic animals and their habitats, enabling them to play their crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. </p>



<p>The ongoing dedication to rhino conservation, supported by heightened awareness and reinforced regulations, is vital to ensure the survival of rhinos for future generations. By celebrating World Rhino Day, we reaffirm our commitment to biodiversity and take a step closer to a world where both humans and wildlife coexist harmoniously.</p>



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World Rhino Day: Celebrating and protecting the magnificent rhinoceros

World Rhino Day, celebrated annually on September 22nd, is a...

Adult,Cuckoo,Male,Perched,On,Branch

<p>Climate change is reshaping bird habitats and populations across the United Kingdom, presenting both challenges and opportunities for native and migratory species. </p>



<p>Scientists note that this environmental shift is producing "winners and losers" among bird populations, impacting not only the avian residents but also the bird-watching community in Britain.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-new-sightings-the-winners">Rising new sightings: The winners</h2>



<p>According to a recent report by the BBC, bird enthusiasts in the UK are witnessing unprecedented sightings of non-native species, such as the black-winged stilts and bee-eaters -- migrants previously seldom seen on British shores. </p>



<p>Bird species like reed warblers are leveraging the extended, warmer summers to increase their progeny, while others like the Cetti's warbler, which colonized the UK decades ago, are progressively extending their range north.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diminishing-native-species-the-losers">Diminishing native species: The losers</h2>



<p>Conversely, the shifting climate is posing significant threats to species like cuckoos and willow warblers, which are experiencing sharp declines in Southern Britain. Dr. Dave Leech, the Head of Ringing at the <a href="https://www.bto.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Trust for Ornithology</a>, spoke to the BBC about the precarious plight of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cuckoos-are-unable-to-change-their-migrations-in-response-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cuckoos</a>, stating their populations are in "free fall." </p>



<p>The changing climate is reducing the availability of food, impeding these birds' ability to refuel before their strenuous journey back over the Sahara to over-winter in Africa. The worry is that future generations might miss out on the distinctive calls of cuckoos, a sound once synonymous with British wildlife.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-multi-faceted-pressure-on-bird-populations">Multi-faceted pressure on bird populations</h2>



<p>The precarious balance of the avian ecosystem in the UK is not solely attributed to climate change. Loss of natural habitats like meadows and hedgerows, combined with the usage of pesticides, has led to a decline in nearly half of all bird species in the country. </p>



<p>The British Trust for Ornithology reports a substantial decrease in the number of wild birds in Britain, witnessing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/half-of-all-uk-bird-species-are-in-a-state-of-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a drop of 73 million</a> since 1970.</p>



<p>Dr. Leech emphasizes that the changing climate is particularly impactful for migratory birds, which are grappling with extreme weather conditions across various continents, affecting their breeding, wintering, and migrational paths that span thousands of kilometers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategic-monitoring-and-mitigation">Strategic monitoring and mitigation</h2>



<p>The continuous efforts of bird ringers and volunteers have been instrumental in monitoring these changes in bird populations, providing valuable insights into their decline. </p>



<p>Peter, a seasoned bird ringer from Gloucestershire, points out to the BBC that climate change, predominantly driven by human activities, will result in alterations in the avian landscape. While some <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/the-12-endangered-birds-most-at-risk-of-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species may disappear</a>, others could become commonplace, shifting the avian biodiversity of the region.</p>



<p>Collecting and analyzing ringing data is crucial for devising effective mitigation strategies against the adverse effects of climate change on bird species. Understanding these shifts will enable more informed conservation strategies, aiming to preserve the rich and diverse bird life in the UK.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-and-conserving-bird-populations">Preserving and conserving bird populations</h2>



<p>In summary, the interplay between climate change and avian species is unveiling a new pattern in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-populations-are-declining-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird sightings</a> in the UK. While this shift might excite bird lovers with the presence of new species, the decline of traditional inhabitants like the cuckoo raises concerns about the long-term impacts on the biodiversity of the region. </p>



<p>The proactive role of bird ringers, scientists, and volunteers is essential in monitoring and mitigating the repercussions of these environmental shifts, ensuring the sustenance of diverse bird species for future generations to experience and enjoy.</p>



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Bird populations in the UK are being decimated by climate change

Climate change is reshaping bird habitats and populations across the...

<p>Researchers unearthed a new species of tarantula exhibiting a vibrant electric blue coloration, nestled within the enigmatic landscapes of Thailand’s mangrove forests. This exciting discovery unfolded in the Phang-Nga province and is the inaugural record of a tarantula species dwelling in Thai mangrove ecosystems.</p>



<p>Dr. Narin Chomphuphuang and his research ensemble, accompanied by local wildlife aficionado and YouTuber <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwahnsJVPWodYOLoTQl3q6A" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JoCho Sippawat</a>, embarked on this trailblazing expedition following the revelation of Taksinus bambus -- the first <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/four-new-tarantula-species-discovered-in-colombia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tarantula</a> known to inhabit bamboo stalks, in Thailand. Their quest was driven by the zeal to delve deeper into the secretive world of these arachnids.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-encounter-with-the-vibrant-creature">Encounter with the vibrant creature</h2>



<p>The distinctive <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/spider_Chilobrachys-natanicharum_Yuranan-Nanthaisong_2medium.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electric blue</a> of the tarantula immediately distinguished it from its peers, its color acting as a beacon in the dense, dark green foliage. </p>



<p>Narin explained, “The first specimen we found was on a tree in the mangrove forest. These tarantulas inhabit hollow trees, presenting a challenge in catching them, as one needs to climb trees and lure them out of complex hollows amidst humid and slippery conditions.”</p>



<p>The expedition meticulously maneuvered through the terrain in the evenings and nocturnal hours during low tide, overcoming obstacles to collect two specimens, showcasing the tarantula’s elusive nature.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-symphony-of-colors">A symphony of colors</h2>



<p>The electric blue tarantula, it was discovered, doesn’t owe its striking coloration to pigments, but rather to the intricate nanostructures within their hair, manipulating light to craft the illustrious blue hue, sometimes revealing an enchanting violet tint, creating a mesmerizing iridescent effect. </p>



<p>The mechanism to appear blue necessitates the absorption of minimal energy while reflecting high-energy blue light, making blue one of the most scarce and fascinating colors in nature.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-prior-commercial-appearance">A prior commercial appearance</h2>



<p>Before its scientific documentation, this species had been seen in commercial tarantula markets as the "Chilobrachys sp. Electric Blue Tarantula," however, without any records of its distinctive attributes or its natural surroundings.</p>



<p>Dr. Narin elucidated the adaptability of the electric blue tarantula, explaining, “These tarantulas can flourish in both arboreal and terrestrial environments in evergreen forests but are confined to tree hollows in mangrove forests due to tidal activities.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-naming-the-new-tarantula-species">Naming the new tarantula species</h2>



<p>The scientific designation, <em>Chilobrachys natanicharum</em>, resulted from an auction campaign, with Nichada Properties Co., Ltd., Thailand, emerging victorious, proposing a blend of the names of company executives Mr. Natakorn Changrew and Ms. Nichada Changrew. </p>



<p>The proceeds from the auction have been channeled to bolster the education of Lahu children in Thailand and to aid impoverished cancer patients. The Lahu people, an indigenous tribe known for their rich culture and traditions, face stark educational disparities due to financial constraints. </p>



<p>Similarly, many cancer sufferers grapple with economic adversities, hindering their access to quality medical care. The donation aims to bridge these gaps and extend support to those in dire need.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-concerns-over-habitat-destruction">Concerns over habitat destruction</h2>



<p>Dr. Narin emphasized the indispensability of taxonomy in research, from resolving everyday queries about species names to undertaking pivotal conservation research to thwart species extinction. He underscored its critical role in advancing knowledge and fostering conservation efforts.</p>



<p>The looming menace of deforestation imperils mangrove forests and their unique inhabitants like the electric blue tarantula—one of the world’s rarest. This discovery brings forth pertinent questions about humanity's inadvertent role in habitat destruction and the subsequent displacement of these exceptional species, prompting reflections on conservation imperatives.</p>



<p>This discovery, a beacon of Thailand’s rich biodiversity, has not only expanded the realms of arachnological knowledge but has also sparked crucial conversations about ecological conservation, habitat preservation, and the proactive roles that can be played to shield these extraordinary creatures from extinction.</p>



<p>The study was published in the <a href="https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/106278/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">journal ZooKeys</a>.</p>



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Electric blue tarantula discovered in a Thai mangrove forest

Researchers unearthed a new species of tarantula exhibiting a vibrant...

<p>A new study published by <a href="https://global.oup.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxford University Press</a> uncovers the evolutionary adaptations in bats that may explain their extraordinary capability to ward off <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-increases-risk-of-fatal-bacterial-infections/">infections</a> and resist cancer. This discovery, believed to be associated with bats' rapid evolution, may have promising implications for cancer research.</p>



<p>Bats have long fascinated scientists due to their unique attributes. Not only are they the only mammals capable of sustained flight, but they also boast long lifespans, remarkably low cancer rates, and incredibly robust immune systems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Furthermore, it is widely believed that bats played a pivotal role in the emergence of the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus. Their peculiar ability to tolerate various viral infections possibly arises from distinct features in their innate immune response.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-human-health-nbsp">Implications for human health&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The implications of understanding bats are far-reaching, especially for human health. Gaining insights into the bat immune system's mechanisms that enable it to withstand viral infections might pave the way for better strategies in preventing zoonotic disease transmissions to humans.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Furthermore, by comparing the genomic data of bats to other mammals more susceptible to cancer, researchers could unearth new knowledge about cancer's origins and its intricate relationship with immunity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While mice remain a primary organism for experimental studies due to their ease of manipulation, they lack many attributes relevant to human diseases. In contrast, bats offer a more comprehensive perspective.</p>



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



<p>"The ability of bats to tolerate viral infections may stem from unusual features of their innate immune response. Together, these adaptations make bats a powerful system for investigating a wide variety of genotype-to-phenotype relationships, including several with implications for human health," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"For example, by better understanding the mechanisms of the bat immune system that allow them to tolerate viral infections, researchers may be better able to prevent zoonotic outbreaks."</p>



<p>"In addition, comparative genomic analyses of bats and cancer-susceptible mammals may shed new light on the causes of cancer and links between cancer and immunity."</p>



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



<p>For their investigation, the researchers used the Oxford Nanopore Technologies long-read platform, along with bat samples from the American Museum of Natural History in Belize. The genomes of two bat species, the Jamaican fruit bat and the Mesoamerican mustached bat, were sequenced.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team conducted an extensive comparative genomic analysis involving various bats and other mammals.</p>



<p>"Our comparative genomic analysis of these genome sequences, which have been released as a public resource, provides several new insights into unique features of innate immune response and cancer resistance in bats," said the researchers.</p>



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



<p>The scientists identified genetic modifications in six DNA repair-related proteins in bats.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Furthermore, 46 proteins related to cancer suppression were found to be altered in bats. These modified genes related to cancer were present over two times more in bats than in other mammals.</p>



<p>“By generating these new bat genomes and comparing them to other mammals we continue to find extraordinary new adaptations in antiviral and anticancer genes,” said study lead author Armin Scheben.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“These investigations are the first step towards translating research on the unique biology of bats into insights relevant to understanding and treating aging and diseases, such as cancer, in humans.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/gbe/evad148" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Genome Biology and Evolution</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Unique biology of bats may hold secrets of cancer resistance

A new study published by Oxford University Press uncovers the...

Naesiotus pachys

Taxonomic tree: