Acaena exigua 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 Canada. 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.<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-surface-slicks-create-superhighway-for-fish/"> Fish</a> and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video. Acaena exigua is an extinct species of flowering plant in the rose family known by the common name liliwai. It was endemic to Hawaii, where it was known from Kauaʻi and west Maui. It had not been seen or collected since 1957 and was feared extinct until 1997, when one plant was discovered in a remote montane bog on <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=maui&amp;cvid=11f593b142284a109c4b71b63cd85874&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">Maui</a>. The plant died in 2000, and the species is now considered extinct.<strong>Acaena exigua</strong> A. Gray var. subtusstrigulosa Bitter: Classification. Click on a scientific name below to expand it in the PLANTS Classification Report. Rank Scientific Name and Common Name; Kingdom: Plantae – Plants Subkingdom: Tracheobionta

Acaena exigua

Acaena exigua NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation...

Astragalus lentiginosus var. coachellae 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 Canada. 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.Astragalus lentiginosus is a species of legume known by the common names spotted locoweed and freckled milkvetch. It is native to western <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=9d9a0a4c5dff44d78078fc35d7f1dc5d&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a>, where it grows in many habitat types. There are a great number of wild varieties of this species, and they vary in appearance. The flower and the fruit of a given individual are generally needed to identify it down to the variety.

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. member of the Fabaceae (pea family), is an annual or short-lived perennial endemic to the<strong> Coachella</strong> Valley, Riverside County in the southern California portion of the western Sonoran desert.<strong> Astragalus lentiginosus var. coachellae</strong> is strongly affiliated with active, stabilized, and shielded sandy substrates

Astragalus lentiginosus var. coachellae

Astragalus lentiginosus var. coachellae NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe...

Astragalus lentiginosus var. piscinensis 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 -- Astragalus lentiginosus var. piscinensis 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=a2805716fa254ddab0ac2db53248d72d&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.Geographic subdivisions for Astragalus lentiginosus var. piscinensis: c SNE (near Bishop, Mono, Inyo cos.). MAP CONTROLS 1. You can change the display of the base map and layers by clicking on the layer.

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.Astragalus lentiginosus is a species of legume known by the common names spotted locoweed and freckled milkvetch. It is native to western North America, where it grows in many habitat types. There are a great number of wild varieties of this species, and they vary in appearance. The flower and the fruit of a given individual are generally needed to identify it down to the variety.

Astragalus lentiginosus var. piscinensis

Astragalus lentiginosus var. piscinensis NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe...

Astragalus magdalenae var. peirsonii 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 Canada. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/changing-ocean-soundscapes-impact-animals-worldwide/">animals</a> too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Astragalus magdalenae var. peirsonii 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=dfd2e924f46c415f803e08b528f071fd&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.<i><b>Astragalus</b></i> is a large genus of over 3,000 species <sup id="cite_ref-powo_3-0" class="reference"></sup> of <a title="Herb" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herb">herbs</a> and small <a title="Shrub" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shrub">shrubs</a>, belonging to the <a title="Legume" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legume">legume</a> family <a title="Fabaceae" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fabaceae">Fabaceae</a> and the <a title="Subfamily" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subfamily">subfamily</a> <a title="Faboideae" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faboideae">Faboideae</a>. It is the <a title="List of the largest genera of flowering plants" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_the_largest_genera_of_flowering_plants">largest genus of plants in terms of described species</a>. <sup id="cite_ref-4" class="reference"></sup>The genus is native to temperate regions of the <a title="Northern Hemisphere" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Hemisphere">Northern Hemisphere</a>. Common names include <b>milkvetch</b> (most species), <b><a title="Locoweed" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Locoweed">locoweed</a></b> (in North America, some species) <sup id="cite_ref-5" class="reference"></sup> and <b>goat's-thorn</b> (<a title="Astragalus gummifer" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astragalus_gummifer"><i>A. gummifer</i></a>, <a title="Astragalus tragacantha" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astragalus_tragacantha"><i>A. tragacantha</i></a>). Some pale-flowered vetches (<i><a title="Vicia" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vicia">Vicia</a></i> spp.) are similar in appearance, but they are more <a title="Vine" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vine">vine</a>-like than <i>Astragalus</i>.

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.

Astragalus magdalenae var. peirsonii

Astragalus magdalenae var. peirsonii NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe...

Astragalus montii 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.bing.com/search?q=canada&amp;cvid=487d8c488f1e41ef8e8d73ea0fa7c961&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">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 --Astragalus montii  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.Astragalus montii is a rare species of flowering plant in the legume family known by the common name heliotrope milkvetch. It is endemic to <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=utah&amp;cvid=450ec5cbd19149e4bdf5802c233ced29&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">Utah</a> in the United States, where there are only three known populations. It is a federally listed threatened species of the United States. This species is often treated as a variety of Astragalus limnocharis.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-surface-slicks-create-superhighway-for-fish/">Fish</a> and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.Plant Symbol = ASLIM Contributed by: USDA NRCS Idaho and Utah Plant Materials Program . Heliotrope milkvetch<strong> (Astragalus</strong> limnocharis . var.<strong> montii).</strong> Photo by Duane Atwood. Uses . There are no known human uses of heliotrope milkvetch. Sheep are known to graze the leaves and stems. Status.

Astragalus montii

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Astragalus osterhoutii 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.bing.com/search?q=canada&amp;cvid=7ce226872fd5423db5919ad118aada0d&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">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.

Astragalus osterhoutii is a rare species of milkvetch known by the common name Osterhout milkvetch. It is endemic to Grand County, <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=colorado&amp;cvid=de8095f429bf47e798564111f755ab72&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">Colorado,</a> where it is known from a few populations in Middle Park, a mountain basin. There are five or six occurrences. It is a federally listed endangered species.This plant has no children Legal Status. Threatened and Endangered Information: This plant is listed by the U.S. federal government or a state. Common names are from state and federal lists.

ITIS Reports -- Astragalus osterhoutii 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=beeaa33b3541445b80dc1a31712d1f93&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.

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Astragalus osterhoutii

Astragalus osterhoutii NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Astragalus phoenix 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 Canada. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/plants-cannot-keep-up-with-rising-co2-levels/">plants</a> and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Astragalus phoenix 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=a2805716fa254ddab0ac2db53248d72d&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS"> North America</a> and the world.

The plant is locally <a title="Endemism" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endemism">endemic</a> to <a title="Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ash_Meadows_National_Wildlife_Refuge">Ash Meadows</a>, a desert <a title="Oasis" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oasis">oasis</a> and <a class="mw-redirect" title="Wildlife refuge" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wildlife_refuge">wildlife refuge</a> in the <a title="Amargosa Desert" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amargosa_Desert">Amargosa Desert</a>.

The habitat is made up of stark, white <a class="mw-redirect" title="Sink (geography)" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sink_(geography)">flats</a> and <a title="Arroyo (creek)" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arroyo_(creek)">washes</a> in a <a title="Wetland" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wetland">wetland</a> area that is fed by seeps and <a class="mw-redirect" title="Spring (hydrosphere)" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spring_(hydrosphere)">springs</a> and undergoes <a title="Evaporation" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evaporation">evaporation</a>, leaving behind a hard mineral crust on the land.<sup id="cite_ref-tnc_1-0" class="reference"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astragalus_phoenix#cite_note-tnc-1">[1]</a></sup>

The plant grows in undisturbed areas of the crust. It can be found at about 13 sites in a seven-by-three-mile range.<sup id="cite_ref-tnc_1-1" class="reference"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astragalus_phoenix#cite_note-tnc-1">[1]</a></sup>

It is one of several rare plants and animals endemic to the Ash Meadows—<a title="Amargosa Valley" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amargosa_Valley">Amargosa Valley</a> area. Other plants occurring in the area include <a title="Distichlis spicata" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distichlis_spicata">saltgrass</a> (<i>Distichlis spicata</i>), <a title="Atriplex confertifolia" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atriplex_confertifolia">shadscale</a> (<i>Atriplex confertifolia</i>), and <a title="Isocoma acradenia" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isocoma_acradenia">alkali goldenbush</a>

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.

Astragalus phoenix

Astragalus phoenix NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Astragalus pycnostachyus var. lanosissimus 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/mistastin-lake-in-labrador-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 -- Astragalus pycnostachyus var. lanosissimus 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=84f1e8e9658b4caea7e69e7c7dff2555&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59j69i57j69i59j0j69i60l3.1774j0j9&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world. North America is a continent entirely<strong> within the Northern Hemisphere</strong> and almost all within the Western Hemisphere. It can also be described as the northern subcontinent of the Americas. It is bordered to the north by the Arctic Ocean, to the east by the Atlantic Ocean, to the southeast by South America and the Caribbean Sea, and to the west and south by the Pacific Ocean. Because it is on the North American Tectonic Plate, Greenland is included as part of North America geographically. North America covers an area of about 24,709,000 square kilometers (9,540,000 square miles), about 16.5% of the Earth's land area and about 4.8% of its total surface. North America is the third-largest continent by area, following Asia and Africa, and the fourth by population after Asia, Africa, and Europe

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.

Astragalus pycnostachyus var. lanosissimus

Astragalus pycnostachyus var. lanosissimus NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe...

Astragalus robbinsii var. jesupi NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=animals&amp;cvid=6caf827153ad4fffa27c8d2fea6c064d&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">animals</a> and ecological communtities of the U.S and Canada. 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.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=fish&amp;cvid=43d7a64fc0044595b1795367ad1d7d7a&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">Fish</a> and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.Jesup's milk-vetch, <i>Astragalus robbinsii</i> var. <i>jesupi</i>, is a perennial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-weeds-resistant-herbicides/">herb</a> with featherlike compound leaves; each oblong or elliptical leaflet is only 0.4-0.8 in (1-2 cm long. Several slightly hairy stems, 8-24 in (20-60 cm) tall, grow from a woody rhizome.

Violet to bluish-purple flowers appear in late May or early June. The fruit is a flattened tapered pod. The form of the pod is important in differentiating among the three <a class="interlinked" href="https://www.encyclopedia.com/places/united-states-and-canada/miscellaneous-us-geography/new-england">New England</a> varieties of <i>A. robbinsii</i>. Of the other varieties, <i>A. robbinsii</i> var. <i>robbinsii</i> is now extinct, and var. <i>minor</i> is very rare in <a class="interlinked" href="https://www.encyclopedia.com/places/united-states-and-canada/miscellaneous-us-geography/new-england">New England</a>.Jesup's milk-vetch prefers rocky bluffs along river banks, where it roots securely in silt-filled cracks of calcareous bedrock outcrops. Spring flooding annually scours the rock surfaces, ridding the milk-vetch of its competitor plants and depositing fertile soil. Shade provided by the mature hard-wood trees along the river bank is an important factor in the plant's survival.

Astragalus robbinsii var. jesupi

Astragalus robbinsii var. jesupi NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe...

Astragalus tener var. titi 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 -- Astragalus tener var. titi 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.This is an annual herb producing upright stems up to 30 cm (12 in) tall. The leaves are up to 9 cm (3.5 in) in length and made up of several lance-shaped to oval leaflets.<sup id="cite_ref-1" class="reference"></sup> The <a title="Inflorescence" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inflorescence">inflorescence</a> is a dense cluster of pinkish-purple white-smudged flowers. The fruit is a narrow <a title="Legume" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legume">legume</a> pod up to 5 cm (2.0 in) long and usually containing two smooth seeds.<i><b>Astragalus tener</b></i> is a species of <a title="Astragalus" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astragalus">milkvetch</a> known by the common name <b>alkali milkvetch</b>. It is <a title="Endemism" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endemism">endemic</a> to <a title="California" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California">California</a>, where it grows in both coastal and inland areas such as the <a title="Central Valley (California)" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Valley_(California)">Central Valley</a>, especially in moist places.

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.

Astragalus tener var. titi

Astragalus tener var. titi NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe...

Astragalus tricarinatus 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 <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=animals&amp;cvid=355ecbe7e67844368fb991be5452a786&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">animals</a> 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.It is <a title="" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endemism">endemic</a> to <a title="California" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California">California</a>, where it can be found in the region where the <a title="San Bernardino Mountains" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Bernardino_Mountains">San Bernardino Mountains</a> meet the <a title="Mojave Desert" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mojave_Desert">Mojave Desert</a> and the <a title="Colorado Desert" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colorado_Desert">Colorado Desert</a>. It grows in desert scrub and expanses of rock litter amongst stands of <a title="Yucca brevifolia" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yucca_brevifolia">Joshua trees</a>. The plant is known from only one location and there were twenty individuals remaining there in 1998, when it was federally listed as an <a title="Endangered species" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endangered_species">endangered species</a>.

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.

This is a perennial herb growing in clumps up to about 25 cm (9.8 in) tall. The leaves are up to 20 cm (7.9 in) long and made up of several silvery-green hairy leaflets. The <a title="Inflorescence" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inflorescence">inflorescence</a> holds 5 to 15 cream-colored flowers each about 2 cm (0.79 in) in length.

The fruit is a flat <a title="Legume" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legume">legume</a> pod up to about 4 cm (1.6 in) long. The pod is curved and has three distinct ribs.

Astragalus tricarinatus

Astragalus tricarinatus NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Astrophytum asterias 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/news/blue-butterflies-are-set-to-become-widespread-across-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=a89f77701d234b96b3eaee1307656b94&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59j69i57j0l4j69i60l3.1415j0j9&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world. North America is a continent entirely<strong> within the Northern Hemisphere</strong> and almost all within the Western Hemisphere. It can also be described as the northern subcontinent of the Americas. It is bordered to the north by the Arctic Ocean, to the east by the Atlantic Ocean, to the southeast by South America and the Caribbean Sea, and to the west and south by the Pacific Ocean. Because it is on the North American Tectonic Plate, Greenland is included as part of North America geographically. North America covers an area of about 24,709,000 square kilometers (9,540,000 square miles), about 16.5% of the Earth's land area and about 4.8% of its total surface. North America is the third-largest continent by area, following Asia and Africa, and the fourth by population after Asia, Africa, and Europe.

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.

Astrophytum asterias

Astrophytum asterias NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Atriplex coronata var. notatior 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 Canada. 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 -- Atriplex coronata var. notatior 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.<strong>Atriplex coronata var. notatior</strong> Common Name: San Jacinto Valley crownscale Family: Chenopodiaceae Synonyms: Element Code: PDCHE040C2 Full Name: <strong>Atriplex coronata</strong> Wats. <strong>var</strong>. <strong>notatior</strong> Jeps. USDA PLANTS Symbol: ATCON 2001 Barry Du Bois Biology ; Lifeform: annual herb Blooming Period.

<i>Atriplex coronata</i> is an annual herb producing stiff erect or leaning straw-colored stems up to about 30 centimeters tall. The gray scaly leaves are one or two centimeters long.

The flowers are generally oval shaped. The seeds are just over a millimeter long.rownscale Subordinate Taxa. This plant has no children Legal Status. Threatened and Endangered Information: This plant is listed by the U.S. federal government or a state. Common names are from state and federal lists.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-surface-slicks-create-superhighway-for-fish/">Fish</a> and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.

Atriplex coronata var. notatior

Atriplex coronata var. notatior NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe...

Auerodendron pauciflorum 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 Canada. 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 -- Auerodendron pauciflorum ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/plants-cannot-keep-up-with-rising-co2-levels/">plants</a>, 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.

<i><b>Auerodendron pauciflorum</b></i> is a rare species of <a title="Flowering plant" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flowering_plant">flowering plant</a> in the family <a title="Rhamnaceae" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhamnaceae">Rhamnaceae</a>. One <a title="English language" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/English_language">English language</a> common name is <b>turtlefat</b>.<sup id="cite_ref-2" class="reference"></sup> It is <a title="Endemism" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endemism">endemic</a> to <a title="Puerto Rico" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puerto_Rico">Puerto Rico</a>, where it is known from only one population in <a title="Isabela, Puerto Rico" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isabela,_Puerto_Rico">Isabela</a>. At the time the plant was federally listed as an <a title="Endangered species" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endangered_species">endangered species</a> by the United States in 1994, only ten individual plants were known to exist. <sup id="cite_ref-fed_3-0" class="reference"></sup>By 1997, there were 19 known specimens.<sup id="cite_ref-rec_4-0" class="reference"></sup>

This <a title="Shrub" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shrub">shrub</a> is native to the <a title="Tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tropical_and_subtropical_moist_broadleaf_forests">subtropical moist forests</a> on the <a title="Limestone" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Limestone">limestone</a> hills in the northwestern corner of Puerto Rico. It was nearly eliminated due to several forces in its habitat. The land is privately owned and desirable for development with plans for construction of a <a title="Resort" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resort">resort</a> and <a title="Cell site" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cell_site">cell phone towers</a>. <sup id="cite_ref-fed_3-1" class="reference"></sup>The hills are quarried for limestone and <a title="Deforestation" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deforestation">deforestation</a> is ongoing. <sup id="cite_ref-fed_3-2" class="reference"></sup> The plant is already extremely rare, making it vulnerable to extinction from any one event.<sup id="cite_ref-fed_3-3" class="reference"></sup> <a title="Vandalism" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vandalism">Vandalism</a> could significantly reduce the population

Auerodendron pauciflorum

Auerodendron pauciflorum NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Ayenia limitaris 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 Canada. 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 -- Ayenia limitaris 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. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-surface-slicks-create-superhighway-for-fish/">Fish</a> and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.

This is a <a title="Shrub" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shrub">shrub</a> growing up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall. The alternately arranged leaves have hairy heart-shaped blades with toothed edges. The small flowers have pinkish, greenish, or whitish petals. The fruit is a prickly capsule divided into five cells.

The plant's native habitat was made up of <a title="Subtropics" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subtropics">subtropical</a> <a title="Riparian zone" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Riparian_zone">riparian</a> woodland covered in dense thickets in the <a title="Floodplain" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Floodplain">floodplains</a> of the Rio Grande <a title="River delta" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/River_delta">delta</a>. It is probably adapted to periodic <a title="Flood" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flood">flooding</a> in the area, an event that is largely contained and prevented today. <sup id="cite_ref-tnc_1-2" class="reference"></sup><sup id="cite_ref-tex_4-0" class="reference"></sup>Only about 5% of the natural habitat, the Texas ebony-anacua (<i><a title="Ebenopsis ebano" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ebenopsis_ebano">Ebenopsis ebano</a></i>/<i><a title="Ehretia anacua" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ehretia_anacua">Ehretia anacua</a></i>) plant community, remains in this area.<sup id="cite_ref-fed_5-0" class="reference"></sup> the rest has been <a title="Fence" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fence">fenced</a> and fragmented by <a title="Road" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Road">roads</a>, <a title="Canal" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canal">canals</a>, and <a title="Ditch" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ditch">ditches</a>, plowed for <a title="Agriculture" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agriculture">agricultural</a> use, and compacted by herds of <a title="Cattle" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cattle">cattle</a>.<sup id="cite_ref-cpc_3-1" class="reference"></sup> <a title="Introduced species" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Introduced_species">Introduced plant species</a> such as <a title="Megathyrsus maximus" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Megathyrsus_maximus">Guinea grass</a> (<i>Megathyrsus maximus</i>) have taken hold

Ayenia limitaris

Ayenia limitaris NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Baccharis vanessae 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 Canada. 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.<i><b>Baccharis vanessae</b></i> is a rare <a title="California" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California">California</a> species of <a title="Baccharis" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baccharis">baccharis</a> known by the common name <b>Encinitas baccharis</b>. It is native primarily to <a title="San Diego County, California" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Diego_County,_California">San Diego County, California</a>, almost <a class="mw-redirect" title="Endemic" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endemic">endemic</a> to the county except for one population a few miles over the county line in <a class="mw-redirect" title="Riverside County" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Riverside_County">Riverside County</a>. <sup id="cite_ref-1" class="reference"></sup>It is a member of the <a title="Chaparral" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chaparral">chaparral</a> flora. It is a federally listed threatened species. It is present in several sites in <a title="Encinitas, California" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Encinitas,_California">Encinitas</a>, and it is known from other parts of the county from the coastline to the mountains on various substrates. There are perhaps 15 populations remaining, for a total of about 2000 individuals. <sup id="cite_ref-tnc_2-0" class="reference"></sup> Some of the remaining occurrences are on land which may be cleared for development

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.

Baccharis vanessae

Baccharis vanessae NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Banara vanderbiltii 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 Canada. 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.

<i><b>Banara vanderbiltii</b></i> is a rare species of <a title="Plant" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plant">plant</a> in the <a title="Salicaceae" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salicaceae">willow family</a> known by the common name <b>palo de ramon</b>. It is <a title="Endemism" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endemism">endemic</a> to <a title="Puerto Rico" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puerto_Rico">Puerto Rico</a>, where there are fewer than 20 known individuals left in the wild.<sup id="cite_ref-cpc_2-0" class="reference"></sup> At the time it was listed as an <a title="Endangered species" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endangered_species">endangered species</a> of the United States in 1987, there were only six plants remaining.<sup id="cite_ref-fed_3-0" class="reference"></sup>

This is an evergreen <a title="Shrub" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shrub">shrub</a> which can grow up to 9 meters tall, bearing rough-textured hairy leaves up to 12 centimeters long by 4 wide.<sup id="cite_ref-rec_4-0" class="reference"></sup> The flowers are yellow and have many <a title="Stamen" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stamen">stamens</a>. The red-purple fruits provide food for birds, including the <a title="Bananaquit" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bananaquit">bananaquit</a> (<i>Coereba flaveola</i>) and the <a title="Western spindalis" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_spindalis">western spindalis</a> (<i>Spindalis zena</i>).<sup id="cite_ref-cpc_2-1" class="reference"></sup>

The shrub grows in moist forests on <a title="Limestone" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Limestone">limestone</a> substrates. Its habitat has been subject to <a title="Deforestation" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deforestation">deforestation</a>, the main cause of its rarity.<sup id="cite_ref-cpc_2-2" class="reference"></sup><sup id="cite_ref-fed_3-1" class="reference"></sup> Land is cleared for <a title="Agriculture" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agriculture">agriculture</a>, including <a title="Coffee" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coffee">coffee</a> <a title="Plantation" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plantation">plantations</a>, and <a title="Livestock" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Livestock">livestock</a> are <a title="Grazing" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grazing">grazed</a> in the area. <sup id="cite_ref-cpc_2-3" class="reference"></sup><a title="Military exercise" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Military_exercise">Military exercises</a> have also occurred nearby, with sections of the forest being trampled.<sup id="cite_ref-cpc_2-4" class="reference"></sup>

The plant was known to occur near <a title="San Juan, Puerto Rico" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Juan,_Puerto_Rico">San Juan</a> long ago, but these occurrences have long since been <a title="Local extinction" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Local_extinction">extirpated</a> by urban development.<sup id="cite_ref-fed_3-2" class="reference"></sup> It now occurs only in one area along the northwestern coast, with one tiny population located near <a title="Cayey, Puerto Rico" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cayey,_Puerto_Rico">Cayey</a> and a second, smaller one near <a title="Bayamón, Puerto Rico" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bayam%C3%B3n,_Puerto_Rico">Bayamón</a>

Banara vanderbiltii

Banara vanderbiltii NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Baptisia arachnifera 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.<i><b>Baptisia arachnifera</b></i>, commonly known as <b>hairy rattleweed</b>, <b>cobwebby wild indigo</b>, <b>hairy wild indigo</b>, and <b>hairy false indigo</b>, is an endangered species of flowering <a title="Plant" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plant">plant</a> in the legume family. Its native habitat is limited to sandy soils in pinewoods along the <a title="Coastal plain" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coastal_plain">coastal plain</a> of the <a title="U.S. state" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/U.S._state">U.S. state</a> of <a title="Georgia (U.S. state)" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Georgia_(U.S._state)">Georgia</a>.

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.<i>Baptisia arachnifera</i> is a <a class="mw-redirect" title="Perennial" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perennial">perennial</a> that grows to a height of forty to eighty centimeters and is "covered with grayish-white, cobwebby hairs".<sup id="cite_ref-PPG_2-1" class="reference"></sup> Blue-green, simple <a title="Leaf" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leaf">leaves</a> are alternate and <a class="mw-redirect" title="Leaf shape" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leaf_shape">heart-shaped</a>. <sup id="cite_ref-PPG_2-2" class="reference"></sup>They range in size from 2–6 cm long by 1.5–5 cm wide

Baptisia arachnifera

Baptisia arachnifera NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Berberis nevinii 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 Canada. 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 -- Berberis nevinii 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.

<i><b>Mahonia nevinii</b></i> (syn. <i><b>Berberis nevinii, Odostemon nevinii</b></i><sup id="cite_ref-1" class="reference"></sup>, known by the common name <b>Nevin's barberry</b>, is a species of flowering shrub in the <a title="Berberidaceae" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berberidaceae">barberry family</a>.

This plant is <a title="Endemism" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endemism">endemic</a> to <a title="Southern California" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southern_California">southern California</a>, where it is known from very few occurrences in the riparian areas of <a title="Chaparral" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chaparral">chaparral</a> in inland canyons and foothills. It is a California state and United States federally listed <a title="Endangered species" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endangered_species">endangered species</a>, since 1987 <sup id="cite_ref-Cal_Listing_2-0" class="reference"></sup>and 1998, <sup id="cite_ref-FederalRegister_3-0" class="reference"></sup><sup id="cite_ref-ESA_Listing&quot;_4-0" class="reference"></sup> respectively. There are thought to be about 500 individuals remaining, with half of those being naturally occurring <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/plants-cannot-keep-up-with-rising-co2-levels/">plants</a>.<sup id="cite_ref-cpc_5-0" class="reference"></sup> It is also cultivated in gardens and parks as an ornamental and barrier plant

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.

Berberis nevinii

Berberis nevinii NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

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,...

<p>A new study led by Henry Häkkinen from the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a> highlights a critical ecological issue. The researchers predict that naturalized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-many-invasive-plant-species-are-in-the-world/">species</a>, those that are not native but have established themselves in new locations, possess the potential to spread even further into suitable habitats globally.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study explores the dynamics of how naturalized species, including plants, birds, and mammals, have managed to extend their reach beyond their native regions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-drives-species-invasions">What drives species invasions?</h2>



<p>"Understanding and predicting the spread of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/economic-time-bomb-costs-of-invasive-species-are-greatly-underestimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">introduced species</a> is one of the key conservation and ecological challenges of the 21st century," wrote the study authors.</p>



<p>"However, we know little about what causes the introduced range of some species to increase rapidly, while other species remain in small, isolated populations years after establishing self-sustaining populations."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"This major gap in our understanding prevents us from understanding how much of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/invasive-species-plants-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invasive spread</a> is due to characteristics of the invader or the invaded environment." </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-imminent-threat-of-naturalized-species">Imminent threat of naturalized species</h2>



<p>The researchers said the most imminent threat is posed by the many thousands of species that are naturalized outside their native range and may <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biological-hazard-soil-on-sea-freight-loaded-with-invasive-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">continue to spread</a> much more widely. "However, there is a surprising lack of attention paid to the potential spread of already-naturalized species." </p>



<p>"Without understanding what has affected the spread of these species historically, we can assess neither which species are likely to spread further nor the geographic regions that will be most affected."</p>



<p>Focusing on 833 naturalized plants, birds, and mammals, the researchers have identified the terrestrial areas most susceptible to future colonization by these species. Their findings highlight North America, Eastern Europe, and Australia as particularly vulnerable regions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study reveals a significant potential for the further spread of naturalized birds in North America, mammals in Eastern Europe, and plants in both these regions as well as in Australia.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-spread-of-naturalized-species">Potential spread of naturalized species</h2>



<p>"The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unseen-crisis-37000-alien-species-have-been-introduced-by-human-activities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential spread</a> of naturalized species appears greatest in regions that are already heavily invaded, i.e., North America, Australia, and Europe. However, already-naturalized species also threaten areas of the world thought of as less invaded," wrote the study authors.</p>



<p>"In South America and Southern Africa around 200 regionally naturalized plants have the potential to spread widely - a number comparable to that in Australia and China, which have historically borne the brunt of biological invasions."</p>



<p>"Nonetheless, the potential for regionally naturalized species to spread in sub-Saharan Africa and the north of South America is lower than one would expect from the globally high numbers of species naturalized there. This is potentially encouraging given the recent increases in regional trade and transportation infrastructure in these regions that could increasingly facilitate the spread of naturalized species."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-delay-in-expansion-nbsp">Delay in expansion&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Despite having ample opportunities to expand, many of these species have not yet colonized all areas with a compatible climate. This delay in expansion suggests that some introduced species may not become problematic immediately but could pose risks after a lag period.</p>



<p>"Nearly all species we studied have yet to expand throughout most of the areas that are climatically suitable for them, within the biogeographic regions where they have naturalized. This is despite substantial time to invade: 25% have been established for over 150 years," noted the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invasional-meltdown">Invasional meltdown</h2>



<p>The experts also identified the key factors influencing the spread of naturalized species. They found that a species' introduction history, its dispersal capabilities, and the presence of suitable habitats are more critical in determining its spread than its preferred habitat or interactions with local species. This insight is vital for understanding and predicting the movement of non-native species.</p>



<p>A concerning finding of the study is the concept of "invasional meltdown." This phenomenon occurs when multiple introduced species collectively amplify their impact and ability to establish themselves in a new environment, potentially leading to devastating ecological consequences.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While many of the species that were studied have a minimal impact on their own, their collective effect could be significantly more harmful.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-implications-of-naturalized-species">Future implications of naturalized species</h2>



<p>“Species invasions can devastate biodiversity, agriculture, and livelihoods, so it’s worrying that so many naturalized species seem poised to spread further," wrote the researchers.</p>



<p>"But there is a glimmer of hope that invasions are much more limited than they could be – ecosystems may be holding off invaders better than we expected, and good management could help stem the spread.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://journals.plos.org/plosbiology/article?id=10.1371/journal.pbio.3002361" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>PLoS Biology</em></a>.</p>



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Invasive naturalized species will continue to spread globally

A new study led by Henry Häkkinen from the University...

White,Summer,Daisies,Reaching,Towards,Blue,Sky

<p>In a remarkable fusion of biology and engineering, the team led by Prof Christian Fankhauser at the <a href="https://www.unil.ch/central/en/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Lausanne</a> (UNIL), in collaboration with <a href="https://www.epfl.ch/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EPFL</a>, has made a significant breakthrough in understanding how plants perceive light. </p>



<p>This study reveals how plants, devoid of visual organs, determine the source of light using the unique optical properties at the air-water interface within their tissues.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-phototropism-in-plants">Phototropism in plants</h2>



<p>Phototropism, the orientation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-talk-to-plants-using-light-based-messaging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> towards light, is a critical phenomenon for their survival. As Prof Fankhauser explains, "The majority of living organisms (micro-organisms, plants and animals) have the ability to determine the origin of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-why-plants-have-a-burst-of-activity-at-dawn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light source</a>, even in the absence of a sight organ comparable to the eye." </p>



<p>This ability is crucial for plants to optimally position their organs for maximum <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-light-affects-seasonal-rhythms-of-plants-in-the-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sunlight exposure</a>, facilitating efficient <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>, the process by which they convert light energy into chemical energy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-light-detection-mechanism">Light detection mechanism</h2>



<p>The key to this discovery was the observation of a mutant variety of <em>Arabidopsis thaliana</em>, a model plant species, with a uniquely transparent stem. Prof Fankhauser's team, in conjunction with DrSc. Andreas Schüler and the UNIL's Electron Microscopy Centre, found that the normal, milky appearance of plant stems is due to air-filled channels in their tissues. </p>



<p>In contrast, the mutant plants had these channels filled with water, giving them a translucent appearance. These channels, it turns out, are crucial for establishing a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-can-control-plants-using-nothing-but-light/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light gradient</a> within the plant, a mechanism previously unknown.</p>



<p>Martina Legris, a postdoctoral fellow in Prof Fankhauser's group, sheds light on the underlying science. She clarifies, “More specifically, air and water have different refractive indices. This leads to light scattering as it passes through the seedling." </p>



<p>This scattering of light, akin to the formation of rainbows, enables the plant to 'read' the light gradient and determine the light source's direction.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-phototropism">Broader implications of phototropism</h2>



<p>This fascinating research elucidates a novel mechanism for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/light-and-temperature-collaborate-to-boost-plant-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light perception</a> in plants, and also provides insights into the formation and functions of air-filled intercellular channels. These channels are known to aid in gas exchange and offer resistance to hypoxia during flooding. </p>



<p>Understanding their development from embryonic stages to adulthood remains an area ripe for exploration. The genetic resources utilized in this study promise to further our understanding of these intricate structures.</p>



<p>In summary, the collaborative efforts of UNIL and EPFL have unveiled a fascinating aspect of plant biology, opening new avenues in our understanding of plant physiology and their interaction with the environment. This study not only enriches our scientific knowledge but also underscores the importance of interdisciplinary research in unraveling the complexities of nature.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adh9384" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a></em>.</p>



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How plants know where to find the light

In a remarkable fusion of biology and engineering, the team...

Endangered plants