Acipenser transmontanus NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of<a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=d55013d210f7439f8ca981b3b73576f2&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i60j69i57j69i60l2j69i59.492j0j4&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS"> North America</a> and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.White sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) is a species of sturgeon in the family Acipenseridae of the order Acipenseriformes. They are an anadromous fish species ranging in the Eastern Pacific; from the Gulf of Alaska to Monterey, California. However, some are landlocked in the Columbia River Drainage, Montana, and Lake Shasta in California, with reported sightings in northern Baja California, Mexico.Actinopterygii (ray-finned fishes) &gt; Acipenseriformes (Sturgeons and paddlefishes) &gt; Acipenseridae (Sturgeons) &gt; Acipenserinae Etymology: : Latin, = sturgeon, 1853 (Ref. 45335); <strong>transmontanus</strong>: The specific name is derived from the Latin <strong>acipenser</strong> (sturgeon), trans (beyond), and montanus (mountain) (Ref. 27436).More on author: Richardson.

Acipenser transmontanus

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Ailuropoda melanoleuca NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/lake-st-clair-of-the-u-s-and-canada/">Canada.</a> NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.The giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca; Chinese: 大熊猫; pinyin: dàxióngmāo), also known as the panda bear or simply the panda, is a bear native to south central China. It is characterised by large, black patches around its eyes, over the ears, and across its round body. The name "giant panda" is sometimes used to distinguish it from the red panda, a neighboring musteloid. Though it belongs to the order Carnivora, the giant panda is a folivore, with bamboo shoots and leaves making up more than 99% of its diet. Giant pandas in the wild will occasionally eat other grasses, wild tubers, or even meat in the form of birds, rodents, or carrion. In captivity, they may receive honey, eggs, fish, yams, shrub leaves, oranges, or bananas along with specially prepared food. The giant panda lives in a few mountain ranges in central China,

Ailuropoda melanoleuca

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Akialoa stejnegeri NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Akialoa stejnegeri ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=6b138ad0f589473792ba23467d420ea8&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i57j69i60l3j0.716j0j9&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.Taxonomic Status: Current Standing: valid Data Quality Indicators: Record Credibility Rating: verified - standards met

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.

The Kauai ʻakialoa was a Hawaiian honeycreeper in the subfamily Carduelinae of the family Fringillidae. It was endemic to the island of Kauai, Hawaii. It became extinct in the 20th century due to introduced avian disease and habitat loss. The Kauai ʻakialoa was about seven and a half inches in length and had a very long downcurved bill, which covered one third of its length. The adult males were bright olive-yellow on top and yellow on the bottom. The throat, breast, and sides of the body were olive-yellow. The females, however. 'Akialoa, Kaua'i 'Akialoa, and Maui-nui 'Akialoa as species. The<strong> Kaua'i 'Akialoa</strong> was the best known of the 'akialoas, persisting on Kaua'i through the 1960s. See Olson and James (1988, 1995) for the naming of this subspecies<strong> stejnegeri</strong> (Wilson) as opposed to "procerus" (Cabanis) recorded in most previous and some current literature (Synonymies). The Kauai ʻakialoa was about seven and a half inches in length and had a very long downcurved bill, which covered one third of its length

Akialoa stejnegeri

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Alasmidonta atropurpurea NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/lake-st-clair-of-the-u-s-and-canada/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=6b138ad0f589473792ba23467d420ea8&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i57j69i60l3j0.716j0j9&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.Alasmidonta atropurpurea, common name Cumberland elktoe, is a species of freshwater mussel, an aquatic bivalve mollusk in the family Unionidae, the river mussels.

Also described by Rafinesque in 1831, has a thin but not fragile shell, whose surface is smooth, somewhat shiny, and covered with greenish rays. Young specimens have a yellowish-brown shell, and the shells of adults are generally black. NatureServe is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.Species Information County observation(s) for <strong>Alasmidonta atropurpurea</strong>. Linked life history provided courtesy of NatureServe Explorer. Records may include both recent and historical observations.

Alasmidonta atropurpurea

Alasmidonta atropurpurea NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Alasmidonta heterodon NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=6b138ad0f589473792ba23467d420ea8&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i57j69i60l3j0.716j0j9&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.The dwarf wedgemussel is an endangered species of freshwater mussel, an aquatic bivalve mollusk in the family Unionidae, the river mussels.The dwarf wedgemussel was federally listed as an endangered species in 1990. The dwarf wedgemussel is a small, freshwater mussel that rarely exceeds 1.5 inches in length. It is the only Atlantic Slope freshwater bivalve (two-shelled) mussel in North America that has two lateral teeth on the right valve, but only one tooth on the left. The outer shell is dark brown or yellowish brown and often exhibits greenish rays in young

Alasmidonta heterodon

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Alasmidonta raveneliana NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/lake-st-clair-of-the-u-s-and-canada/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=6b138ad0f589473792ba23467d420ea8&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i57j69i60l3j0.716j0j9&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.The Appalachian elktoe is a species of freshwater mussel in the family Unionidae, the river mussels. It is native to the United States, where it is known only from North Carolina and Tennessee.The<strong> Alasmidonta raveneliana</strong> (Appalachian elktoe) has a thin, but not fragile, kidney-shaped shell, reaching up to about 3.2 in (8 cm) in length, 1.4 in (3.5 cm) in height, and 1 in (2.5 cm) in width. Juveniles generally have a yellowish-brown periostracum (outer shell surface) while the periostracum of the adults is usually dark brown to greenish-black in color.

Alasmidonta raveneliana

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Alauda razae NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=ac3a31fd59c1443a823a552b0b8ce0fc&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i57j69i60l3j0.736j0j9&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video. The Raso lark is a small passerine bird with a highly restricted range, being found only on Raso islet in the Cape Verde Islands. This critically endangered member of the family Alaudidae lives in very arid terrain, and is considered one of the least known birds in the Western Palaearctic region, due to its remoteness and the lack of much ornithological study on the archipelago as a whole.This species is confined to one very small island, where its population fluctuates in response to rainfall and appears to reach extremely small numbers. Climate change may increase drought in Cape Verde, adding to the likelihood of extinction.

Alauda razae

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Alcelaphus buselaphus swaynei NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and<a href="https://www.earth.com/image/lake-st-clair-of-the-u-s-and-canada/"> Canada.</a> NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=ac3a31fd59c1443a823a552b0b8ce0fc&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i57j69i60l3j0.736j0j9&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.Swayne's hartebeest is an endangered antelope native to Ethiopia. Two of the largest remaining populations are located in Senkelle Swayne's Hartebeest Sanctuary and Maze National Park. It has been extirpated from Somalia. It is named after British officer H. G. C. Swayne.In Ethiopia and Somalia we find the<strong> Alcelaphus buselaphus swaynei</strong> having chocolate brown coloured mantle in the sub adults, before achieving the sexual maturity, that gradually stains of silver, as the hair gets grey hues with the ageing of the animal. t is classified in the genus Alcelaphus and placed in the family Bovidae. In 1979, palaeontologist Elisabeth Vrba supported Sigmoceros as a separate genus for Lichtenstein's hartebeest, a kind of hartebeest, as she assumed it was related to Connochaetes(wildebeest). She had analysed the skull characters of living and extinct species of antelope to make a cladogram, and argued.

Alcelaphus buselaphus swaynei

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Alcelaphus buselaphus tora NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada.</a> NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=35f8c824aab647a19217981e91ae23f2&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i60j69i57j69i60l2j0.1017j0j1&amp;pglt=299&amp;FORM=ANNTA1&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.The tora hartebeest ( Alcelaphus buselaphus tora) is an extremely endangered antelope, native to Eritrea and Ethiopia. It has possibly been extirpated from Sudan. One of the most critically endangered large mammals in the world, it is threatened by poaching and habitat loss.The hartebeest , also known as kongoni, is an African antelope. Eight subspecieshave been described, including two sometimes considered to be independent species. A large antelope, the hartebeest stands just over 1 m (3.3 ft) at the shoulder, and has a typical head-and-body length of 200 to 250 cm (79 to 98 in). The weight ranges from 100 to 200 kg (220 to 440 lb). It has a particularly elongated forehead and oddly shaped horns, short neck, and pointed ears. Its legs, which often have black markings, are unusua…

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.

Alcelaphus buselaphus tora

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Alethe choloensis NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.The Thyolo alethe or Cholo alethe (Chamaetylas choloensis) is an endangered species of bird in the family Muscicapidae. It is found in Malawi and Mozambique. It is named after Thyolo, a nearby town in Malawi. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. It is most threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation, fires, and human activities.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.The Thyolo alethe or Cholo alethe is an endangered species of bird in the family Muscicapidae. It is found in Malawi and Mozambique. It is named after Thyolo, a nearby town in Malawi. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. It is most threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation, fires, and human activities.

Alethe choloensis

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Alligator mississippiensis NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and<a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/"> Canada.</a> NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=35f8c824aab647a19217981e91ae23f2&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i60j69i57j69i60l2j0.1017j0j1&amp;pglt=299&amp;FORM=ANNTA1&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.The American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis), sometimes referred to colloquially as a gator or common alligator, is a large crocodilian reptile native to the Southeastern United States, with a small population in Mexico. It is one of two extant species in the genus Alligator within the family Alligatoridae; it is larger than the only other living alligator species, the Chinese alligator. Adult male American alligators measure 3.4 to 4.6 m (11.2 to 15.1 ft) in length, and can weigh up to 453 kg (999 lb). Females are smaller, measuring 2.6 to 3 m (8.5 to 9.8 ft) in length. The American alligator inhabits freshwater wetlands, such as marshes and cypress swamps from Tamaulipas in Mexico to southeastern and coastal North Carolina. It is distinguished from the sympatric American crocodile by its broader snout

Alligator mississippiensis

Alligator mississippiensis NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Alligator sinensis NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video. The Chinese alligator, also known as the Yangtze alligator, <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=china&amp;cvid=9dff653a5e5d4ba4b3dedded43bb1c17&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59j0l6.701j0j9&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">China</a> alligator, or historically the muddy dragon, is a crocodilian endemic to China. It and the American alligator are the only living species in the genus Alligator of the family Alligatoridae. Dark gray or black in color with a fully armored body, the Chinese alligator grows to 1.5–2.1 metres in length and weighs 36–45 kilograms as an adult. It brumates in burrows in winter and is nocturnal in summer. Mating occurs in early summer, with females most commonly producing 20–30 eggs, which are smaller than those of any other crocodilian.The species is an opportunistic feeder, primarily eating fish and invertebrates. A vocal species, adults bellow during the mating season and young vocalize to communicate with their parents and other juveniles. Captive specimens have reached age 70, and wild specimens can live to over 50.

Alligator sinensis

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Alouatta palliata NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=6b138ad0f589473792ba23467d420ea8&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i57j69i60l3j0.716j0j9&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.The mantled howler, or golden-mantled howling monkey, is a species of howler monkey, a type of New World monkey, from Central and South America. It is one of the monkey species most often seen and heard in the wild in Central America. It takes its "mantled" name from the long guard hairs on its sides.The golden-mantled howler (<strong>Alouatta palliata palliata</strong>) is a subspecies of the mantled howler, A. <strong>palliata</strong>.It ranges throughout much of Central America, in Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica, and possibly Panama. The range limits between the golden-mantled howler and the Ecuadorian mantled howler are not entirely clear. The Ecuadorian mantled howler replaces the golden-mantled howler

Alouatta palliata

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Alouatta pigra NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and<a href="https://www.earth.com/image/lake-st-clair-of-the-u-s-and-canada/"> Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Alouatta pigra ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=6b138ad0f589473792ba23467d420ea8&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i57j69i60l3j0.716j0j9&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video. The Guatemalan black howler, or Yucatan black howler, is a species of howler monkey, a type of New World monkey, from Central America. It is found in Belize, Guatemala and Mexico, in and near the Yucatan Peninsula. It lives in evergreen, semideciduous and lowland rain forests. It is also known as the baboon in Belize, although it is not closely related to the baboons in Africa.

Howler monkeys are among the largest primates in the Neotropics. They can grow to be 22 to 36 inches tall when standing. And, their tails are about the same size in length as their bodies! Male howlers are black, while females are brown. They have prehensile tails that they can use to grab onto branches. They make loud vocalizations to mark their territory, thus earning their name.

Alouatta pigra

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Amazilia luciae NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/lake-st-clair-of-the-u-s-and-canada/">Canada.</a> NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Amazilia luciae ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=6b138ad0f589473792ba23467d420ea8&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i57j69i60l3j0.716j0j9&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.Name Homonyms<strong> Amazilia luciae</strong> (Lawrence, 1868) Common names Amazilia hondureña in Spanish Ariane de Lucy in French Honduran Emerald in English Honduran Emerald in English Honduran Emerald in English

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.The Honduran emerald is a species of hummingbird in the family Trochilidae. This bird is found only in Honduras. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forest and subtropical or tropical dry shrubland.The Honduran Emerald (Amazilia luciae) is a little-known hummingbird in the family of Trochilidae. The bird is endemic to dry forest of Honduras. Honduran Emerald is threatened by habitat loss and deforestation. The hummingbird restricted distribution in dry forest fragments and increasing human pressures on this habitat.

Amazilia luciae

Amazilia luciae NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Amazona arausiaca NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=35f8c824aab647a19217981e91ae23f2&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i60j69i57j69i60l2j0.1017j0j1&amp;pglt=299&amp;FORM=ANNTA1&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.The red-necked amazon, also known as the red-necked parrot, Dominican blue-faced amazon, lesser Dominican amazon, and Jaco parrot, is an amazon parrot endemic to Dominica. It is green, with bright splashes of various colours. Its name is due to the area of red plumage commonly found at its throat.Species Profile. Genus: <strong>Amazona</strong> | Species: <strong>arausiaca</strong> Size: 40cm (15.6 in) Weight: 620g (21.7 oz) Races including nominate: one. Colour Adult: Both adults body colour green, the feathers of the nape, neck, and mantle edged with dusty black; purple/blue face; red foreneck; secondary feathers 1-3 red turning into yellow and tipped with purple/blue, secondary feather 4 yellow tinged with green and .

Amazona arausiaca

Amazona arausiaca NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Amazona brasiliensis NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/lake-st-clair-of-the-u-s-and-canada/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=35f8c824aab647a19217981e91ae23f2&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i60j69i57j69i60l2j0.1017j0j1&amp;pglt=299&amp;FORM=ANNTA1&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.The red-tailed amazon, also known as the red-tailed parrot, is a species of parrot in the family Psittacidae. It is endemic to coastal regions in the south-east Brazilian states of São Paulo and Paraná. The bird has been threatened by habitat loss and capture for the wild bird trade, and is a symbol of the efforts to conserve one of the Earth's most biologically diverse ecosystems. Consequently, it is considered Near Threatened by BirdLife International and the IUCN. In 1991–92, the population had fallen below 2000 individuals. Following on-going conservation efforts, a count and estimate from 2015 suggests a population of 9,000–10,000, indicating that this species is recovering from earlier persecution

Amazona brasiliensis

Amazona brasiliensis NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Amazona collaria NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada.</a> NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=35f8c824aab647a19217981e91ae23f2&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i60j69i57j69i60l2j0.1017j0j1&amp;pglt=299&amp;FORM=ANNTA1&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.The Yellow-billed Amazon, also called the Jamaican Amazon, (Amazona collaria) is a species of parrot in the Psittacidae family. It is a predominantly green parrot with a short tail and pink throat and neck.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.The yellow-billed amazon, also called the Jamaican amazon, is a species of parrot in the family Psittacidae. It is a predominantly green parrot with a short tail and pink throat and neck. It is endemic to Jamaica, where its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, subtropical or tropical mangrove forests, subtropical or tropical moist montane forests, plantations, and rural gardens. It is threatened by habitat loss and illegal trapping of wild birds for the pet trade.

Amazona collaria

Amazona collaria NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Amazona guildingii NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/lake-st-clair-of-the-u-s-and-canada/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=35f8c824aab647a19217981e91ae23f2&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i60j69i57j69i60l2j0.1017j0j1&amp;pglt=299&amp;FORM=ANNTA1&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video. The Saint Vincent amazon also known as Saint Vincent parrot, is a large, approximately 40 cm long, multi-colored amazon parrot with a yellowish white, blue and green head, greenish-bronze upperparts plumage, and violet blue-green wings.The bird is a 40 centimetres (16 in) long, mostly green, multi-colored amazon parrot with a yellowish white, blue and green head, greenish-bronze upperparts, grey feet, reddish eye, and violet blue-green wings. Its tail feathers are blue with broad yellow tips. There is a less yellow-brown <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=Morph%20(biology)%20wikipedia&amp;form=WIKIRE">morph</a> and a less common green morph. It has grey feet and reddish eyes. Both sexes are similar. The young has lighter plumage and brown <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=Iris%20(anatomy)%20wikipedia&amp;form=WIKIRE">iris</a>.

Amazona guildingii

Amazona guildingii NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/root-bacteria-protects-plants/">Bacteria</a> that benefit plants are thought to be a critical contributor to crops and ecosystems, but climate change may reduce their numbers, according to a new study by an international team of researchers published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s43016-023-00869-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Food</em></a>.</p>



<p>The collaboration, including Francisco Dini-Andreote, professor of plant science at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pennsylvania State University</a>, characterized the abundances and distributions of plant beneficial bacteria (PBB) from soils collected across the globe. The researchers then modeled how these microbial communities may be impacted by fossil-fuel dependent climate change in the next century.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-second-genome">The second genome</h2>



<p>Leveraging existing data from the <a href="https://earthmicrobiome.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth Microbiome Project</a>, the researchers identified microbes that may provide services to plants such as biocontrol or limiting impacts of pathogens, plant growth promotion, and stress resistance. Such services implicate these bacteria as key components of productive agroecosystems, which primarily yield food.</p>



<p>“Plants are colonized by a diverse set of microbes on and in their roots, leaves and stems,” Dini-Andreote said. “These plant-associated microbiomes represent an extension of the plant metabolic capacity - often termed ‘the second genome of plants.’”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbial-community-patterns">Microbial community patterns</h2>



<p>This notion echoes the hologenome concept, which considers the total set of genes contained by an organism and its associated microbiome to make inferences about organismal health and evolution.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to the researchers, characterizing the biogeography of PBB sets the stage for understanding the variables that govern global microbial community patterns and predicting their future in a rapidly shifting world.</p>



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



<p>The analysis revealed several trends in PBB diversity, including higher levels of diversity and richness in lower latitudes, with the highest concentration in North America and Africa. A total of 396 genera, the taxonomic rank above species level, were identified.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers found that local environmental variables - climate, in particular - were strong predictors of PBB community composition, likely exerting strong influences on PBB distribution. This suggests that climate influences what bacteria are found where and in what proportion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-scenarios-nbsp">Future scenarios&nbsp;</h2>



<p>To investigate how PBB abundances and distributions may change over the next century, the researchers modeled several climate scenarios based on projections from the <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change</a>. </p>



<p>Under the fossil-fueled development scenario, which assumes tripled greenhouse gas emissions by 2075, the model predicted that PBB associated with biocontrol and stress resistance would decline by 0.60 percent in 80 percent of global regions, as opposed to 0.07 percent under a Sustainability scenario.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Under all scenarios, middle-latitude regions are projected to experience steady declines, whereas increases in PBB are anticipated in polar and equatorial regions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-validation-is-needed">Further validation is needed</h2>



<p>Dini-Andreote noted that predictive studies such as this are broadly impactful but cautioned that models are limited and must be experimentally validated. For instance, in controlled settings, plant-soil systems can be exposed to warming or drought conditions, after which researchers can evaluate shifts based on the impact and adaptation of PBB communities relative to controls.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In other words, experimentation is required to know how PBB will be affected under climate-related stress, and what levels of PBB decline will have a critical impact on plant health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-food-insecurity-nbsp">Addressing food insecurity&nbsp;</h2>



<p>In addition to informing community ecology research, the researchers said they hope to spark agricultural innovation and applications for increased food security. But those innovations are unlikely to include soil probiotics to restore diminished PBB.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Dini-Andreote said that such bioinoculants can often have several shortcomings such as requiring continual application. Additionally, only a small fraction, about 5 to 10 percent, of soil microbes can be cultured, which limits the development of full-spectrum probiotics.</p>



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



<p>However, Dini-Andreote offered an alternative. “By advancing our understanding of how these distinct PBB survive in association with plants, for instance in the plant rhizosphere, we can develop strategies to engineer crops to produce compounds that feed these beneficial microbes.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>Through this approach, the researchers suggested, plants could recruit beneficial bacteria with no need for the external input of probiotics. The potential impacts of applications like this are untold, Dini-Andreote said, but underscore the importance of exploring the rapidly advancing frontier of microbiomes.</p>



<p>“This high-profile research is a testament to Dr. Dini-Andreote’s impactful and original research on plant-microbe interactions in a One Health context, spanning soil, plant and human health," Seth Bordenstein, director of the <a href="https://www.huck.psu.edu/institutes-and-centers/microbiome-center" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">One Health Microbiome Center</a> at Penn State. “His vision for plant hologenome studies and integration with global environmental and geographic data is not only driving textbook-level knowledge, but it also raises the alarm on evidence-backed sustainability challenges,” he concluded.</p>



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Beneficial plant bacteria likely to decline due to climate change

Bacteria that benefit plants are thought to be a critical...

<p>A recent study conducted in Japan has unveiled an intriguing dimension to sushi beyond its well-known combination of fish and seaweed. Researchers from <a href="https://www.tohoku.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tohoku University</a> have discovered that wasabi, that zesty green condiment traditionally paired with sushi, can significantly enhance both short-term and long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/">memory</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dramatic-change">Dramatic change</h2>



<p>According to Rui Nouchi, the study’s lead researcher and an associate professor at the university’s Institute of Development, Aging, and Cancer, the outcomes, though derived from a relatively small sample of subjects devoid of preexisting health issues, exceeded their initial expectations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We knew from earlier animal studies that wasabi conferred health benefits,” Nouchi said during an interview conducted in northeastern Japan. “But what really surprised us was the dramatic change. The improvement was really substantial.”</p>



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



<p>The principal active constituent within Japanese wasabi is a biochemical compound named 6-MSITC, recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, a rarity in the plant kingdom, as noted by Nouchi.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research, executed as a double-blind, randomized study, featured 72 healthy participants aged between 60 and 80. Half of the participants were administered 100 milligrams of wasabi extract at bedtime, while the remaining half received a placebo.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings-about-wasabi">Key findings about wasabi</h2>



<p>After three months, the group treated with wasabi extract demonstrated significant enhancements in two aspects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive function</a>: working (short-term) memory and the more enduring episodic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flavanols-a-key-to-slowing-age-related-memory-loss-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a>. These improvements were gauged through standardized assessments of language skills, concentration, and the ability to perform simple tasks. </p>



<p>However, there was no observable improvement in other cognitive domains, including inhibitory control (the capacity to maintain focus), executive function, or processing speed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neural-plasticity-nbsp">Neural plasticity&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The subjects who received the wasabi treatment exhibited an average 18 percent surge in their episodic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sleep-improves-memory-formation-and-recall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a> scores, with an overall average score 14 percent higher than the placebo group.</p>



<p>The researchers postulated that 6-MSITC may contribute to a reduction in inflammation and oxidative stress levels within the hippocampus, the region of the brain responsible for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/powerful-connection-between-scent-and-memory-may-help-combat-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory functions</a>, thereby promoting neural plasticity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-verbal-episodic-memory">Verbal episodic memory</h2>



<p>In comparison to the control group, the study reported that individuals who were administered wasabi “showed improved verbal episodic memory performance as well as better performance in associating faces and names, which is often the major memory-related problem in older adults.”</p>



<p>Wasabi belongs to the mustard family of plants, and the piquant paste derived from it garnered esteem in Japan centuries ago due to its antimicrobial properties, making it effective in combating foodborne pathogens such as E-coli and staphylococcus. Furthermore, its distinctive flavor and aroma make it an ideal complement to seafood.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wasabi-as-a-daily-supplement">Wasabi as a daily supplement </h2>



<p>Rui Nouchi, a specialist in dementia prevention, turned to wasabi as a treatment option after experiencing high dropout rates with conventional methods for preserving cognitive health, such as the Mediterranean diet, exercise regimens, and music therapy.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Nouchi reasoned that a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/taking-a-daily-multivitamin-improves-memory-and-slows-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">daily supplement</a> would be more sustainable, particularly for older adults, while delivering greater benefits than other anti-inflammatory and antioxidant spices like ginger and turmeric.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-nbsp">Future research&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Tohoku University research team now has plans to extend their investigations to include individuals from various age groups and explore whether wasabi could potentially slow down cognitive decline in dementia patients.</p>



<p>However, there is a significant caveat to these findings: the piquant paste served at nearly all sushi establishments, even in Japan, is almost certainly an imposter. What is far more prevalent is a convincing imitation, typically composed of ordinary white horseradish dyed green.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-authentic-wasabi-nbsp">Authentic wasabi&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Authentic wasabi, indigenous to Japan, is notoriously challenging to cultivate. The plant necessitates nearly two years to mature and demands precise conditions involving temperature, shade, gravel composition, and water quality. Astonishingly, its production cost per pound can even surpass that of the finest-grade tuna it often accompanies.</p>



<p>Genuine wasabi must be consumed fresh, with the rough rhizome or stem of the plant grated tableside just before consumption. On a positive note, even a small serving of genuine wasabi offers equivalent benefits to the capsule supplements employed in the Tohoku study, delivering 0.8 milligrams of 6-MSITC.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/21/4608" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nutrients</em></a>. </p>



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Wasabi significantly enhances both short-term and long-term memory

A recent study conducted in Japan has unveiled an intriguing...

Carbon,Dioxide,Or,Co2,Is,Colorless,Gas.,Which,Inhaling,This

<p>A new study brings a glimmer of hope in the battle against climate change. The research suggests that the Earth's plants could absorb more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-ancient-plants-affect-atmospheric-co2-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric CO2</a> caused by human activities than previously thought. </p>



<p>This exciting revelation was conducted by the <a href="https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/hie" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment</a> at Western Sydney University and led by Dr. Jürgen Knauer. It comes from advanced ecological modeling techniques, offering a more optimistic outlook on the planet's capacity to combat carbon emissions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-plants-and-co2-interact">How plants and CO2 interact</h2>



<p>Despite these encouraging findings, the environmental scientists behind the study warn against any laxity in global efforts to reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-plants-continue-offsetting-our-carbon-emissions-in-a-warming-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon emissions</a>. </p>



<p>"Plants take up a substantial amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) every year, thereby slowing down the detrimental effects of climate change, but the extent to which they will continue this CO2 uptake into the future has been uncertain,” Dr. Knauer explains. </p>



<p>Knauer continued, “What we found is that a well-established climate model that is used to feed into global climate predictions made by the likes of the <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IPCC</a> predicts stronger and sustained carbon uptake until the end of the 21<sup>st</sup>&nbsp;century when it accounts for the impact of some critical physiological processes that govern how plants conduct photosynthesis."</p>



<p>The research underlines the importance of not only <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/us-cities-are-about-to-get-a-lot-greener-with-1-billion-for-tree-planting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planting more trees</a> but also conserving existing vegetation. However, it emphasizes that this is not a standalone solution but one of the many steps needed to tackle climate change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-climate-models">Enhancing climate models</h2>



<p>The study delves into the complexities of how plants conduct <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-to-life-on-earth-photosynthesis-begins-on-the-quantum-level-with-a-single-photon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis</a>. </p>



<p>"We accounted for aspects like how efficiently carbon dioxide can move through the interior of the leaf, how plants adjust to changes in temperatures, and how plants most economically distribute nutrients in their canopy," explained Dr. Knauer.</p>



<p>Knauer went on to explain that, "These are three really important mechanisms that affect a plant’s ability to ‘fix’ carbon, yet they are commonly ignored in most global models."</p>



<p>This enhanced understanding has allowed for more accurate predictions of vegetation's carbon uptake capabilities, which is critical in the fight against climate change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-photosynthesis-nature-s-climate-mitigator">Photosynthesis: Nature's climate mitigator</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-finally-decoded-the-process-of-photosynthesis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Photosynthesis</a>, the process by which plants convert CO2 into sugars for growth and metabolism, plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change. The study highlights the increasing land carbon sink observed over recent decades, largely driven by increased CO2 uptake by vegetation. </p>



<p>However, the long-term effects of climate change on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-greening-affects-carbon-uptake-by-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation carbon uptake</a>, especially under extreme conditions like droughts and heatwaves, remain a concern.</p>



<p>The research team tested various models under a high-emission climate scenario, assessing global climate change until the end of the 21st century. Models ranged in complexity and the extent to which they accounted for critical plant physiological processes. </p>



<p>The results consistently showed that more complex models, incorporating current understanding of plant physiology, projected stronger increases in global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deserts-as-carbon-sinks-study-reveals-potential-for-greening-arid-regions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation carbon uptake</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-modeling-plants-and-co2">Climate modeling, plants, and CO2</h2>



<p>Silvia Caldararu is an Assistant Professor at Trinity’s <a href="https://naturalscience.tcd.ie/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Natural Sciences</a> and a contributor to the study. She contextualizes the findings, saying, "Because the majority of terrestrial biosphere models used to assess the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/boreal-and-temperate-forests-have-emerged-as-the-main-carbon-sinks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global carbon sink</a> are located at the lower end of this complexity range, accounting only partially for these mechanisms or ignoring them altogether, it is likely that we are currently underestimating climate change effects on vegetation as well as its resilience to changes in climate."</p>



<p>Caldararu continued, "We often think about climate models as being all about physics, but biology plays a huge role and it is something that we really need to account for."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-nature-based-solutions">Implications for nature-based solutions</h2>



<p>The study suggests that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-based-solutions-city-greening-reduces-carbon-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature-based solutions</a> to climate change, such as reforestation and afforestation, could be more impactful and sustainable than previously thought.</p>



<p>According to Silvia Caldararu, “These kinds of predictions have implications for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-savannas-have-a-hidden-weapon-against-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature-based solutions</a> to climate change such as reforestation and afforestation and how much carbon such initiatives can take up."</p>



<p>The team's findings suggest these approaches could have a larger impact in mitigating climate change and over a longer time period than we thought.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Caldararu cautions, however, that these measures cannot replace the urgent need to reduce emissions across all sectors. “Simply <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/initiatives-to-plant-billions-of-trees-threatened-by-seedling-undersupply/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planting trees</a> will not solve all our problems.&nbsp;We absolutely need to cut down emissions from all sectors. Trees alone cannot offer humanity a get out of jail free card,”&nbsp;says Caldararu.</p>



<p>In summary, this research marks a significant step in understanding the role of vegetation in mitigating climate change. It provides an optimistic perspective on the planet's ability to absorb CO2 but simultaneously serves as a reminder that this is not a panacea. </p>



<p>Concerted efforts in emission reductions, alongside nature-based solutions, remain paramount in addressing the global climate crisis.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adh9444" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science</em> <em>Advances</em></a>.</p>



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Plants are absorbing more human-produced carbon dioxide than expected

A new study brings a glimmer of hope in the...

<p>Researchers at <a href="https://nau.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northern Arizona University</a> have shared new details about the resilience of coast redwoods, particularly their recovery from severe <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canadian-fires-have-released-a-billion-tons-of-carbon-dioxide/">fires</a>. </p>



<p>The study was focused on the CZU Lightning Complex Fire, a devastating event in August of 2020. In California's Big Basin State Park, the fire burned thousands of acres of redwoods - including some that were over 1,500 years old.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resilient-redwoods-nbsp">Resilient redwoods&nbsp;</h2>



<p>A team from NAU’s Center for Ecosystem Science and Society (Ecoss) and the School of Informatics, Computing, and Cyber Systems (SICCS) meticulously examined the aftermath of the CZU Lightning Complex Fire.</p>



<p>The researchers found that many of the trees that were initially believed to be dead were actually far from it. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remarkable-survival-strategy-nbsp">Remarkable survival strategy&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The redwoods, known for storing massive amounts of carbon, had utilized these reserves to fuel new growth. Remarkably, new leaves sprouted from buried buds, dormant for centuries, signaling the start of the forest's regeneration.</p>



<p>This incredible discovery opens up questions about the survival strategies of other long-lived plants and their adaptation to severe environmental stresses.</p>



<p>“It remains to be determined if redwood’s old reserves and ancient cell lines are an exception in the plant kingdom or an exceptional example of an insurance strategy common to long-lived plants,” said study co-author Professor George Koch.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-carbon-reserves-nbsp">Ancient carbon reserves&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The researchers used computer modeling to analyze the age of the carbon reserves in these ancient trees. The results were astonishing: some trees used carbon reserves that were decades or perhaps even a century old.</p>



<p>The team’s updated models showed that the redwoods’ reserves included carbon captured 50 to 100 years ago.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>“As far as we know, these are some of the oldest carbon reserves ever measured,” said study lead author Professor Drew Peltier.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Sugars photosynthesized perhaps 100 years ago were used to grow new leaves in 2021. Although coast redwood is clearly a superlative species, it is likely that other long-lived trees also harbor carbon reserves that are much older than previously recognized.”</p>



<p>“This study was really exciting for us because we used measurements at the atomic level - counting the amount of carbon-14 relative to carbon-12 - to understand what these sprouts, which start as tiny green shoots, are telling us about the growth strategy of these enormous trees, among the largest living organisms on earth,” said study co-author Professor Andrew Richardson.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forest-recovery">Forest recovery</h2>



<p>Despite the optimism, the study also brings to light the harsh reality of forest recovery. Many redwoods and other tree species in Big Basin did not survive the fire. </p>



<p>The researchers noted that, although the coast redwood demonstrates exceptional resprouting capabilities, it might take centuries for the Big Basin forest ecosystem to fully recover.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41477-023-01581-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Plants</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Rising from the ashes: How some redwoods recover from fire

Researchers at Northern Arizona University have shared new details about...

<p>In an era where sustainable agriculture and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-solutions-for-the-climate-and-biodiversity-crisis/">biodiversity</a> are critical, a new study from India has demonstrated the power of integrating flowers into farming practices. </p>



<p>The study shows that floral interventions can enhance bee populations and biodiversity while boosting crop yields and benefiting the environment.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research was conducted in South India by a team from the University of Reading and the M S Swaminathan Research Foundation.</p>



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



<p>The study was focused on the Moringa crop, which is known for its high nutritional value. Moringa is mainly cultivated in South India.</p>



<p>The researchers noted that Moringa plays a major role in the rural economy. "The moringa global market was worth USD 5.5 billion in 2018 and projected to increase to USD 10 billion by 2025."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-background-of-the-research-nbsp">Background of the research&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"Pollination is one of the most important ecosystem services provided by nature, which is crucial for global food security and human nutritional health," wrote the study authors.</p>



<p>"About 75% of the food crops around the globe benefit from pollination by animal pollinators; this figure increases in the tropics, where ~94% of tropical crops benefit from animal pollinators."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Despite the advances in agricultural technology, the increasing pressure on farming to meet human food and energy needs over the last century has resulted in a rise of intensive but environmentally detrimental farming."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-floral-interventions-nbsp">Floral interventions&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The researchers set out to investigate the effectiveness of floral interventions in boosting pollination across 24 moringa orchards.</p>



<p>"We hypothesise that moringa fields with floral interventions have a greater abundance and diversity of flower visitors on crop compared with the moringa fields without such floral interventions," wrote the study authors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insect-pollinators-nbsp">Insect pollinators&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Working with farmers, they planted marigold flowers and red gram crops alongside Moringa trees. This strategy led to a significant increase in the abundance and diversity of flower-visiting insects, particularly bees.</p>



<p>"Planting wildflowers on agricultural land is a tried and tested method seen in many arable fields and orchards in the UK and across Europe. This farming technique is known to boost insect pollinator numbers," said Dr. Deepa Senapathi from the University of Reading.</p>



<p>“We worked with farmers in South India to design the best co-flowering crops and boost the numbers of native bees and other insect pollinators visiting the moringa orchards.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remarkable-results">Remarkable results</h2>



<p>The researchers found that orchards with co-flowering crops experienced a 50% increase in flower visitor numbers and a 33% boost in diversity compared to those without these crops. This led to larger Moringa pods and a 30% increase in harvestable fruits.</p>



<p>“Greater yields and higher quality fruit will translate to a healthier and better food supply for smallholder communities," said Dr. Senapathi.</p>



<p>"The farming communities can also use the red gram as a protein source in their diets and receive extra income from selling the marigold flowers.”&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>India, with its vast array of economically and nutritionally valuable crops like mango and moringa, stands to benefit immensely from improved pollination services. However, intensive farming and habitat loss have severely impacted biodiversity, including native pollinators.</p>



<p>Smallholder farmers, who rely on native pollinators, are often the most affected by these ecological challenges. The research demonstrates how they can enhance yields while adopting more sustainable land management practices.</p>



<p>The study is part of the TROPICAL project, funded by the UKRI’s Global Challenges Research Fund. This project aims to apply UK-based research to tropical regions where crops depend heavily on pollinators.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.14532" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Journal of Applied Ecology</em></a>.</p>



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Floral interventions on farms boost pollinators and crop yields

In an era where sustainable agriculture and biodiversity are critical,...

Vegan,Lentil,Burgers,With,Kale,And,Tomato,Sauce,On,A

<p>A recent analysis from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pcrm.org/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine</a> highlights the benefits of replacing animal products with plant-based foods.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This analysis, which expands on a previous study by the same committee, emphasizes the significant impact of plant-based diets on weight loss, cholesterol, fat intake, and fiber intake in overweight adults.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-insights-on-plant-based-foods">Key insights on plant-based foods</h2>



<p>The most significant finding is that both healthy and unhealthy plant-based foods contribute to weight loss when they replace animal products in the diet.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This conclusion is significant because it underscores the potential of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diets-are-proven-better-for-human-and-environmental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-based</a> diet, regardless of the specific type of plant-based foods consumed, in managing weight and improving overall health.</p>



<p>“While a low-fat vegan diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and beans is the gold standard for weight loss and improved health, the good news is that a plant-based diet that eliminates <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-meat-diets-have-four-times-the-environmental-impacts-of-vegan-diets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal products</a> and minimizes the consumption of oil can help with weight loss in people who are overweight,” said study co-author Dr. Hana Kahleova, director of clinical research at the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-study-was-conducted">How the study was conducted</h2>



<p>This analysis is a secondary examination of a prior study that involved 244 overweight adults. The participants were divided into two groups. One group followed a low-fat <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegan-diet-reduces-arthritis-pain-and-inflammation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegan diet</a>, and the other made no changes to their diet. Notably, the study imposed no restrictions on calorie intake, and the researchers did not give participants specific instructions on diet quality.</p>



<p>The study authors used three different indexes to assess plant-based diet adherence: the plant-based diet index (PDI), the healthful plant-based diet index (hPDI), and the unhealthful plant-based diet index (uPDI).&nbsp;</p>



<p>The PDI measures general adherence to a plant-based diet, the hPDI emphasizes fruits, vegetables, grains, and beans, while the uPDI includes more refined grains and fruit juices. Higher scores on these indexes correlate with greater consumption of plant-based foods and reduced consumption of animal products.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-based-foods-show-promising-results">Plant-based foods show promising results</h2>



<p>The results revealed that after 16 weeks, participants on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-environmental-impacts-of-various-diets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegan diet</a> showed increased scores in all three indexes. This increase significantly correlated with participants losing an average of about 13 pounds, mainly from reduced fat mass and visceral fat.</p>



<p>Factors contributing to this weight loss included increased consumption of whole grains and legumes, and reduced consumption of meat, vegetable oil, and sweets. The control group showed no change in their index scores.</p>



<p>Overall, the analysis provides strong evidence that eating plant-based foods is effective for weight management and health improvement, regardless of the specific type of plant-based foods consumed. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-best-plant-based-foods-for-weight-loss">Best plant-based foods for weight loss</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/is-a-plant-based-diet-healthy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plant-based</a> foods are excellent for weight loss as they're typically lower in calories and higher in fiber and nutrients. Here's a description of some effective plant-based foods for weight loss:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-legumes">Legumes</h3>



<p>Beans, lentils, and peas are great sources of protein and fiber, which can keep you feeling full and satisfied. They're also low in fat and calories.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whole-grains">Whole grains</h3>



<p>Foods like quinoa, brown rice, barley, and whole wheat are rich in fiber. They take longer to digest, which helps in maintaining steady blood sugar levels and keeping you full longer.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leafy-greens">Leafy greens</h3>



<p>Spinach, kale, collards, and other greens are incredibly low in calories but high in fiber and essential nutrients. They add bulk to meals without adding many calories.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nuts-and-seeds">Nuts and seeds</h3>



<p>While higher in calories, nuts and seeds like almonds, chia seeds, and flaxseeds provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They should be eaten in moderation.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fruits">Fruits</h3>



<p>Berries, apples, pears, and other fruits are high in fiber and natural sugars, satisfying sweet cravings in a healthier way. They're also full of vitamins and antioxidants.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vegetables">Vegetables</h3>



<p>Non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and bell peppers are low in calories but high in fiber and nutrients, making them perfect for weight loss diets.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tofu-and-yempeh">Tofu and yempeh</h3>



<p>These soy-based products are high in protein and fiber, yet low in calories. They can be great meat substitutes in various dishes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-avocado">Avocado</h3>



<p>Rich in healthy fats and fiber, avocados can help you feel full and satisfied. However, they are calorie-dense, so portion control is key.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mushrooms">Mushrooms</h3>



<p>Low in calories and high in flavor, mushrooms can be a satisfying substitute for meat in many dishes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-herbs-and-spices">Herbs and spices</h3>



<p>Using herbs and spices like turmeric, ginger, and garlic can add flavor without calories, helping to make plant-based meals more satisfying and enjoyable.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41430-023-01371-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>European Journal of Clinical Nutrition</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Plant-based foods are great for weight loss, regardless of the type

A recent analysis from the&nbsp;Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine highlights...

<p>The escalating crisis of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-deforestation-crisis-how-can-we-stop-massive-forest-losses/">deforestation</a> in Mexico, primarily fueled by the US’ soaring demand for avocados, is a concern that <a href="https://cri.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate Rights International</a> (CRI) squarely attributes to the inaction of both US and Mexican federal governments, as well as local authorities in Michoacán and Jalisco. </p>



<p>Despite having the capacity to intervene, these governmental bodies have failed to take effective measures, according to CRI.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-corruption">Corruption</h2>



<p>In a recent <a href="https://cri.org/reports/unholy-guacamole/">report</a> CRI identifies two key issues at the heart of local environmental authorities’ failure: corruption and violence. In Michoacán, for instance, the State Prosecutor’s Office’s unit tasked with investigating avocado-related deforestation is reportedly plagued by corruption.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This situation allows those responsible for deforestation to operate with impunity, mocking the powerlessness of the forest commission, as per a forest official’s statement.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-violence-and-threats">Violence and threats</h2>



<p>Additionally, any resistance to avocado growers is often met with violence or threats, effectively silencing both governmental authorities and local communities who have tried to hold these growers accountable. The situation is further complicated as criminal syndicates vie for a share in this lucrative industry, valued at billions of dollars annually.</p>



<p>The consequences of such resistance can be severe, with instances of kidnapping and even murder of community group members reported.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drastic-measures-nbsp">Drastic measures&nbsp;</h2>



<p>CRI criticizes the US government for its role, highlighting that it “routinely certifies illegally deforested orchards to export to US consumers.” This lack of adequate action from the authorities meant to safeguard the land and communities has led some locals to take drastic measures.</p>



<p>In Cherán, Michoacán, frustrated residents ousted the local government in 2011 due to rampant illegal logging and violence, establishing their own governance and police force to enforce anti-deforestation laws. Michoacán eventually acknowledged the authority of this self-established government.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-avocado-imports-nbsp">Avocado imports&nbsp;</h2>



<p>CRI emphasizes that localized responses alone are insufficient to tackle such pervasive problems. In its report, CRI outlines several recommendations, including a call for both the Mexican and US governments to enforce deforestation and avocado cultivation laws effectively. One key proposal is for the US to ban the import of avocados cultivated on illegally deforested land.</p>



<p>Despite these recommendations, as recently as last year, the US sanctioned avocado imports from Jalisco without implementing deforestation safeguards.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deteriorating-situation">Deteriorating situation</h2>



<p>CRI warns that if decisive action is not taken soon, the situation will continue to deteriorate, especially given the ever-increasing American appetite for avocados.</p>



<p>“Urgently enacting and implementing such regulations and policies is essential to averting climate catastrophe, and to protecting the rights of populations where the commodities are produced,” officials from CRI concluded.</p>



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America's demand for avocados linked to escalating crisis in Mexico

The escalating crisis of deforestation in Mexico, primarily fueled by...

<p>Scientists at the <a href="https://www.bath.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bath</a> have achieved a breakthrough by harnessing the "super power" of a tropical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honey-bees-are-very-loyal-to-their-flower-patches/">flower</a>, potentially revolutionizing the pharmaceutical industry's approach to drug development. </p>



<p>The research, inspired by nature, focuses on creating more stable and effective drugs using a technique derived from Oldenlandia affinis, a small purple flower.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seeking-more-effective-drugs">Seeking more effective drugs</h2>



<p>Traditionally, drug treatments target disease-related proteins to block their activity, either alleviating symptoms or curing the disease. However, the conventional method using small molecules has limitations, especially in blocking protein interactions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The pharmaceutical industry is now exploring the use of small proteins called peptides, which could lead to improved drug discovery.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-drug-candidates-nbsp">New drug candidates&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The challenge with peptides and proteins as drug candidates is their structural vulnerability. They tend to unravel, are sensitive to high temperatures, and have difficulty penetrating cells, where many significant drug targets reside.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The University of Bath team has developed a novel solution to these issues. The technique involves creating "cyclic" proteins and peptides by joining their start and end points. This process enhances their stability against heat and chemicals and facilitates easier cell penetration.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>The experts utilized the enzyme OaAEP1 from Oldenlandia affinis, modifying it and integrating it into bacterial cells for mass production. This process simultaneously joins the proteins' ends in a single step.</p>



<p>While plants can naturally cyclicize proteins, it's a slow and low-yielding process. Chemical cyclization is an alternative but involves multiple steps and toxic solvents.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-insights">Key insights</h2>



<p>The bacterial system introduced by the Bath team is a significant improvement. This approach offers higher yields, uses sustainable biologically-friendly reagents, and simplifies the process, making it cheaper and greener.</p>



<p>To demonstrate their method's efficacy, the researchers applied their bacterial OaAEP1 technology to a protein called DHFR. They found that linking its head and tail ends increased its temperature resistance while maintaining its normal function.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-significance">Study significance</h2>



<p>Professor Jody Mason from the University of Bath’s Department of Life Sciences highlighted the significance of this discovery.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Proteins and peptides are generally quite sensitive to heat, but cyclisation makes them much more robust," said Professor Mason. “The Oldenlandia plant naturally makes cyclic proteins as part of a defence mechanism to deter predators."</p>



<p>“So we’ve harnessed this flower super power by modifying OaAEP1 and combining it with existing bacterial protein-producing technology to create a really powerful tool that will help the drug discovery industry.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exciting-potential-applications-nbsp">Exciting potential applications&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Dr. Simon Tang, a research associate in the University of Bath Department of Life Sciences, explained that proteins and peptides are very promising as drug candidates, but a significant bottleneck for the development of new therapeutic treatments is producing enough of the stuff to reach patients without incurring an astronomical cost.</p>



<p>“Our new process lets the bacteria do all the work – the result is it’s also cleaner and greener, and because it has fewer steps, it is a lot simpler to do," said Dr. Tang.</p>



<p>“We’re really excited about the potential applications of this, not only for the pharmaceutical industry but other industries such as the food industry, detergent industry, in biotechnology, and in bioenergy production.”</p>



<p>The researchers have filed a patent for the technique. The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1021/jacsau.3c00591" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Journal of the American Chemical Society Gold</em></a>.</p>



<p>Image Credit: Peter Warren</p>



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'Super power' of a tropical flower will improve drug discovery

Scientists at the University of Bath have achieved a breakthrough...

<p>Scientists have uncovered a crucial connection between ocean oxygen levels and one of the most catastrophic marine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-predict-a-new-mass-extinction-that-will-wipe-out-humans-and-all-mammals/">extinction events</a> in Earth’s history.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research not only illuminates our understanding of past global changes but also issues a stark warning about the current fragility of marine ecosystems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-triassic-jurassic-mass-extinction">Triassic–Jurassic mass extinction</h2>



<p>The study was focused on the Triassic–Jurassic mass extinction, which occurred approximately 200 million years ago. This event is among the Earth's major mass extinctions, periods characterized by significant global ecosystem collapses and widespread species extinctions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Historically, these events have been closely associated with global environmental disturbances, frequently resulting in reduced oxygen levels (anoxia) in oceanic waters.</p>



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



<p>A common hypothesis has been that greater extents of ocean deoxygenation would naturally lead to larger scale extinctions. However, the current study challenges this assumption by demonstrating that the level of euxinia (an extreme form of deoxygenation) during the Triassic–Jurassic extinction was similar to what we observe today.</p>



<p>The research team, including experts from Royal Holloway (UK), <a href="https://www.tcd.ie/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trinity College Dublin</a> (Ireland), and Utrecht University (Netherlands), analyzed chemical data extracted from ancient mudstone deposits in Northern Ireland and Germany.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-insights-nbsp">Critical insights&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The results of the analysis highlight the role of anoxia in the marine extinctions during this period. The study also reveals a surprising limitation in the global extent of extreme deoxygenation at the time.</p>



<p>The experts found a correlation between increased extinction rates and spikes in deoxygenation across shallow marine environments along European continental margins.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cautionary-tale-nbsp">Cautionary tale&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Upon further investigation, the team determined that the global extent of extreme deoxygenation was rather limited, and similar to the present day.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research serves as a cautionary tale about the current state of our oceans, suggesting that they may be more vulnerable than previously thought.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study of past global change events is invaluable in understanding the consequences of modern climate change, as well as in predicting and possibly mitigating future ecosystem tipping points.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cascading-impacts">Cascading impacts</h2>



<p>“Scientists have long suspected that ocean deoxygenation plays an important role in the disturbance of marine ecosystems, which can lead to the extinction of species in marine environments," said study co-author Professor Micha Ruhl.</p>



<p>"The study of past time intervals of extreme environmental change indeed shows this to be the case, which teaches us important lessons about potential tipping points in local, as well as global ecosystems in response to climatic forcing."</p>



<p>“Crucially however, the current findings show that even when the global extent of deoxygenation is similar to the present day, the local development of anoxic conditions and subsequent locally increased extinction rates can cascade in widespread or global ecosystem collapse and extinctions, even in areas where deoxygenation did not occur."&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-assessing-ecosystem-stability-nbsp">Assessing ecosystem stability&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Professor Ruhl said the research shows that global marine ecosystems become vulnerable, even when only local environments along the edges of the continents are disturbed.</p>



<p>"Understanding such processes is of paramount importance for assessing present day ecosystem stability, and associated food supply, especially in a world where marine deoxygenation is projected to significantly increase in response to global warming and increased nutrient run-off from continents.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41561-023-01303-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Geoscience</em></a></p>



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Today's ocean oxygen levels may have cascading impacts

Scientists have uncovered a crucial connection between ocean oxygen levels...

<p>A recent study led by <a href="https://wsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Washington State University</a> reveals that the majority of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-use-strongly-linked-to-mental-disorders-in-a-new-study/">cannabis</a> users have stopped using conventional over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription sleep aids, favoring cannabis instead.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study, which involved 1,255 cannabis users, found that more than 80% of participants no longer used traditional sleep aids like melatonin and benzodiazepines.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fast-acting-and-effective-nbsp">Fast-acting and effective&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Cannabis users had a strong preference for inhaling high-THC marijuana by smoking joints or vaporizing flower. These methods are known to be fast-acting and effective in alleviating difficulties in falling asleep.</p>



<p>Interestingly, the researchers also found that about half of the respondents preferred cannabis strains containing both CBD and the terpene myrcene.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-myrcene-nbsp">Benefits of myrcene&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Myrcene, found in hops, basil, and other plants, is known for its potential sleep-promoting properties.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Study senior author Professor Carrie Cuttler noted that cannabis users seem to have independently discovered the benefits of myrcene for sleep.</p>



<p>“One of the findings that surprised me was the fact that people are seeking the terpene myrcene in cannabis to assist with sleep,” said Cuttler. “There is some evidence in the scientific literature to support that myrcene may help to promote sleep, so cannabis users seemed to have figured that out on their own.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-insights">Key insights</h2>



<p>The research, conducted by Cuttler and psychology doctoral student Amanda Stueber, relied on self-reported data provided by Strainprint®, a Canada-based medical technology company.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The data revealed that cannabis users generally experienced more positive morning outcomes, such as feeling refreshed and focused, with fewer instances of headaches and nausea, compared to when they used traditional sleep aids.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, cannabis users also reported feeling sleepier and experiencing mood changes, anxiety, dry mouth, and red eyes more frequently than with other sleep aids.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-use-for-sleep">Cannabis use for sleep</h2>



<p>Cuttler pointed out that cannabis use for sleep was perceived as more advantageous than OTC medications or prescription sleep aids.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Unlike long-acting sedatives and alcohol, cannabis did not result in a "hangover" effect, though some lingering effects like sleepiness were reported.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-duration">Sleep duration</h2>



<p>The study further indicates that over 60% of participants achieved the recommended six to eight hours of sleep when using cannabis alone.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This is a stark contrast to the less than 20% who reported the same sleep duration while using a prescription or OTC sleep aid, or combining cannabis with such aids.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Only 33.8% of participants used cannabis edibles, and 14.1% opted for THC-containing capsules for sleep, possibly due to their delayed onset compared to inhalation methods.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-limitation">Study limitation</h2>



<p>Cuttler cautions that the study has limitations, including a strong selection bias towards individuals already using cannabis for perceived benefits.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Not everyone is going to find that cannabis helps with their sleep and future research needs to employ more objective sleep measures to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the effects of cannabis for sleep,” said Cuttler.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.37349/emed.2023.00171" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Exploration of Medicine</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Most cannabis users no longer need conventional sleep aids

A recent study led by Washington State University reveals that...

<p>A study conducted by a collaborative team from Lancaster University, <a href="https://www.bangor.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bangor University</a>, and the University of British Columbia sheds new light on the extensive benefits of secondary forests.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Naturally regrown forests, also known as secondary forests, play a critical role in the connectivity of old-growth forest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shrinking-koala-habitats-face-an-escalating-threat-of-bushfires/">habitats</a>. They can also help to shield other plants and wildlife from the harsh effects of climate change.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forest-restoration-nbsp">Forest restoration&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"Restoration of forests across the globe would make a crucial contribution to achieving global climate change mitigation, with the growth of secondary forests on deforested land in the moist tropics fundamental to success," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Although tropical secondary forests (defined here as forest growing on previously cleared land) store less carbon than old-growth forests, they rapidly remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forest-fragmentation-nbsp">Forest fragmentation&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The research emphasizes the significant impact of secondary forests in mitigating the effects of forest fragmentation in the Amazon, an area crucial for global biodiversity conservation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Secondary forests cover just 190,000 km2 of the Amazon but connect more than 2 million isolated fragments of old-growth forest, prominent amongst the world’s most important habitats for biodiversity conservation," said study co-author Professor John Healey.</p>



<p>"The secondary forests are helping maintain connectivity for patches of old-growth forest that are too small to support long-term viable populations of rare species.”</p>



<p>These connections are vital for the survival of rare species that rely on extensive, undisturbed habitats.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-buffering-nbsp">Climate buffering&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"Secondary forests are buffering as much as 41% of old-growth forest edges, potentially shielding them from negative edge effects such as hotter temperatures and wind," said study lead author Charlotte Smith.</p>



<p>"Proximity to old-growth forests can also help the rate of biodiversity and biomass recovery in secondary forests. It is positive that 94% of secondary forests were connected to old-growth forest. However, may old-growth forest remnants are small and degraded patches, so only 57% of secondary forest was connected to an area of extensive, structurally-intact old-growth.”</p>



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



<p>Professor Healey says the research provides powerful new evidence of the importance of managing forests at the landscape scale.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Promoting forest restoration through secondary forests located next to old-growth forest remnants can play a vital role in both conserving biodiversity in these remnants and the rate of biodiversity recovery in the secondary forests themselves.”</p>



<p>The team notes that more research is needed to improve our understanding of the mechanisms driving variation in forest recovery and the potential benefits of secondary forest as buffers so that we can refine current estimates of forest carbon stocks and habitat provision.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-un-decade-on-ecosystem-restoration-nbsp">UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study underscores the importance of secondary forests in the broader context of the climate crisis and the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. This global initiative, spanning from 2021 to 2030, aims to halt the degradation of ecosystems and restore them to achieve global environmental goals.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration calls for a collective effort from governments, businesses, civil society, and individuals.</p>



<p>The primary objective is to revitalize millions of hectares of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The restoration efforts encompass a wide range of ecosystems, including forests, farmlands, cities, wetlands, and oceans. These endeavors are crucial for combating climate change, enhancing food security, providing clean water, and halting biodiversity loss.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1088/1748-9326/ad039e" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Environmental Research Letters</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Secondary forests reconnect fragmented habitats

A study conducted by a collaborative team from Lancaster University,...

Endangered animals