Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Typhoon Mawar, also known as "Betty," which is the first typhoon of the season in the northwest Pacific. The intense storm struck Guam and the Philippines before heading toward Taiwan and southern Japan.



"With sustained winds that reached 295 kilometers (185 miles) per hour on May 25, the super typhoon grew to be one of the strongest May storms on record," says NASA.&nbsp;



"The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA’s Aqua satellite acquired this natural-color image of Mawar at 05:20 Universal Time on May 30, 2023. Though the storm appeared to be bearing down on Taiwan, it was in the process of turning north and away from the island."



"After rapidly intensifying between May 24 and 25, Mawar then weakened significantly as it encountered cooler water temperatures and less favorable wind shear conditions as it neared Taiwan."



NASA reports that although Mawar did not strike the Philippines or Taiwan directly, the outer bands of the storm brought heavy rains to northern Luzon and rough seas to the eastern coast of Taiwan.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Typhoon Mawar is one of the strongest May storms on record

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features...

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Messina Strait, a channel in the Mediterranean Sea that separates Sicily and Calabria. The photograph was captured by an astronaut onboard the International Space Station



The Messina Strait is 20 miles long with a depth of 820 feet, and joins the Tyrrhenian Sea to the north and the Ionian Sea to the south.&nbsp;



"Waves that follow the tide from west to east are visible in the right half of the photo. These are caused by internal waves, a process where stratified water layers of changing density and increasing depth horizontally propagate beneath the water surface. The waves are illuminated by sunglint—an optical phenomenon that occurs when sunlight is directly reflected off the water and into a satellite’s sensor, or in this case, the astronaut’s camera," explains NASA.



"Alternating currents, relatively low water temperature, and high levels of phosphorus and nitrogen contribute to the region’s aquatic biodiversity. The strait hosts several deep-sea fish species such as Sloane’s viperfish (a predatory dragonfish) as well as commercially valuable fish like yellowtail and snapper. On the left side of the image, thin, white lines are likely ship wakes, some of which may belong to fishing boats."



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Messina Strait in the Mediterranean Sea

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features an astronaut photograph of the Amazon River in Brazil. This particular stretch of river is located near the port city of Parintins.



"The river is the largest on Earth and allows seagoing ships to reach Parintins even though it is 800 kilometers (500 miles) inland from the Atlantic Ocean," says NASA.



"Seagoing ships can progress 3,600 kilometers (2,200 miles) up the Amazon River - more than halfway across the South American continent - to the port of Iquitos in Peru."&nbsp;



The muddy color of the river is tied to the Andes Mountains, a major source of sediments and mineral nutrients. According to NASA, the sediment erodes from the Andes Mountains located to the west and is carried generally eastward toward the ocean.&nbsp;



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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The lower Amazon River in Brazil

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features an astronaut photograph of the Espíritu Santo Archipelago, a group of islands located in the Gulf of California, also known as the Sea of Cortez, off the eastern coast of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico.&nbsp;



"Sunglint reflects off the water surface, accentuating wave movement, ship wakes, and cloud shadows," said NASA. "The islands appear rust-colored due to previous tectonic and volcanic activity that deposited layers of black lava and pink volcanic ash."



"The Baja Peninsula acts as a natural wind and wave break that protects islands in the Gulf of California from erosion. Slowed erosion has resulted in the preservation of rock shelters and caves."



"Exploration and excavation of these shelters contribute to understanding the geomorphology, geology, and ancient human patterns on the islands. Archeologists have found human artifacts artifacts dating back approximately ten thousand years, providing evidence of human activity on the islands."



The Espíritu Santo Archipelago is part of the Mexican state of Baja California Sur and consists of several islands, the largest and most well-known of which is Isla Espíritu Santo. The other main islands in the archipelago are Isla Partida, Los Islotes, and a few smaller islets.



Espíritu Santo and its surrounding islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, featuring dramatic cliffs, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters. The region is home to a rich diversity of marine life, including sea lions, manta rays, whale sharks, and various species of whales and dolphins. It also supports a variety of bird species, such as blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and pelicans, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.



The Espíritu Santo Archipelago has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a Mexican Protected Natural Area, which helps to preserve its unique ecosystems and biodiversity. Ecotourism is popular in the area, with visitors participating in activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and wildlife watching.



The islands are accessible by boat from the nearby city of La Paz, which is the capital of Baja California Sur. There are numerous tour operators that offer day trips and multi-day excursions to the Espíritu Santo Archipelago, allowing visitors to explore the islands and their remarkable natural features.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Espíritu Santo Archipelago in the Gulf of California

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Dark Canyon Complex, which is a rugged, remote area in southeastern Utah. It's part of the larger Cedar Mesa Plateau and includes both the Dark Canyon Wilderness and Dark Canyon Primitive Area.&nbsp;



These are areas of steep canyons, high plateaus, and rock formations that are characteristic of the Colorado Plateau.



"Deep, meandering canyons cut through the Colorado Plateau in southeastern Utah in this photograph, taken by an astronaut on the International Space Station on April 6, 2023," says NASA.



"These canyons, known as the Dark Canyon complex, have distinctive geology, ecology, and archeology. They are some of the only intact protected canyons in the United States."



"This rugged and remote landscape has been shaped by erosion. Over thousands of years, the Colorado River and smaller tributaries have eroded winding, steep-walled canyons into the sedimentary rock. Dark Canyon - one of seven canyons within the complex - cuts diagonally across the photo."



"Within this canyon, sandstone walls tower up to 3,000 feet, shading visitors from morning and afternoon sun - hence its name. The canyon’s steep walls expose roughly 250 million years of geologic history and contain deposits from the Permian period. Cockleshell and crinoid stem fossils have been found in the area."



The astronaut photograph is provided by the ISS Crew Earth Observations Facility and the Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, Johnson Space Center. The image was taken by a member of the Expedition 69 crew.&nbsp;



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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The Dark Canyon Complex in southeastern Utah

Today's Image of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency </a>&nbsp;features Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, and its surroundings. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission on February 21, 2023.



"Situated some 50 km south of the North Korean border, the metropolitan area of Seoul appears as the grey area in the centre of the image," says ESA.



"The Han River runs through the city, and to the right of the image it can be seen partly covered by ice. It is one of the biggest rivers in the Korean peninsula. It flows westward through Seoul into the Yellow Sea, named so because of the yellowish sand that colours its water."



"Seoul is surrounded by forested mountains, which appear brown in this wintery image. Bukhansan National Park lies just north of the city. The park is like an island, acting as a big green lung for the surrounding urban environment."



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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The city of Seoul, South Korea 

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency...

Badlands National Park&nbsp;(Lakota:&nbsp;Makȟóšiča) is an American&nbsp;national park&nbsp;located in southwestern&nbsp;South Dakota. The park protects 242,756 acres (379.3&nbsp;sq&nbsp;mi; 982.4&nbsp;km2)&nbsp;of sharply&nbsp;eroded&nbsp;buttes&nbsp;and&nbsp;pinnacles, along with the largest undisturbed&nbsp;mixed grass prairie&nbsp;in the United States. The&nbsp;National Park Service&nbsp;manages the park, with the South Unit being co-managed with the&nbsp;Oglala Lakota&nbsp;tribe. The White River Badlands have developed an international reputation as a fossil-rich area. They contain the richest deposits of&nbsp;Oligocene&nbsp;mammals known, providing a glimpse of life in the area 33 million years ago.



For those interested in front-country camping, the park offers two official campgrounds. The&nbsp;Cedar Pass Campground&nbsp;is a paid campground with 96 sites total, some designated for RV camping with electric hookups. Sage Creek Campground&nbsp;is a free, first-come first-serve campground with 22 sites.&nbsp;Motor homes, pull behind trailers, and other recreational vehicles greater than 18 feet in length are prohibited.&nbsp; For those seeking a more rugged camping experience, back-country camping is also available in the park. Back-country camping is permitted anywhere in the park as long as it is 0.5 miles from a road or trail and is not visible from a trail or roadway.

Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Scientists at <a href="https://duke.edu/">Duke University</a> and the University of California, Santa Barbara have identified a climate feedback loop involving widely distributed yet underappreciated microbes like plankton that could quicken the pace of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-affects-ground-squirrels-in-unexpected-ways/">climate change</a>.&nbsp;



However, this discovery comes with a silver lining: a potential early warning sign that might help us brace for the tipping point.



The researchers have been studying microscopic organisms called mixotrophs. These versatile organisms have two metabolic modes, allowing them to photosynthesize like plants or consume food like animals, depending on their environment. Daniel Wieczynski, a postdoctoral associate at Duke and the first author of the study, calls them the "Venus fly traps of the microbial world."



<h2 id="h-using-a-computer-model-to-predict-behavior">Using a computer model to predict behavior</h2>



A computer model was used by the team to demonstrate the potential impact of these tiny organisms on the global climate. The researchers discovered that rising temperatures can cause these creatures to shift from absorbing carbon dioxide - a potent greenhouse gas - to emitting it. This shift results from the effects of global warming on their metabolism.



The release of carbon dioxide could potentially lead to increased temperatures, creating a dangerous positive feedback loop. In this scenario, minor degrees of warming could result in a disproportionate impact, accelerating climate change.



Jean P. Gibert, a senior author of the study from Duke, emphasized the role mixotrophs play in regulating the climate, despite their absence in most climate change models. Mixotrophs are abundant in oceans, lakes, and damp soils, forming a significant part of plankton communities and peatlands ecosystems.



“Mixotrophs can both capture and emit carbon dioxide, they're like ‘switches’ that could either help reduce climate change or make it worse,” explained study co-author Holly Moeller, assistant professor at UC Santa Barbara.



<h2 id="h-how-the-study-was-conducted">How the study was conducted</h2>



To examine how these effects could escalate, a mathematical model was developed. This model predicted how mixotrophs might shift between different modes of metabolism as global warming continues.&nbsp;



The model was run under a temperature range of 19 to 23 degrees Celsius (66-73 degrees Fahrenheit), in line with projected global temperature surges of 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels within the next five years, with the potential to exceed 2 to 4 degrees by century's end.



The model revealed that as temperatures increase, mixotrophs are more likely to consume food rather than rely on photosynthesis, leading to an imbalance in carbon absorption and emission. This could eventually push the microbes past a tipping point, shifting from carbon sink to carbon source and thereby contributing to global warming rather than mitigating it.



The scientists warned that reverting from this tipping point would require a significant decrease in temperatures, more than one degree Celsius, a challenge that highlights the seriousness of the situation.



<h2 id="h-the-research-team-found-a-ray-of-hope-amidst-the-gloom">The research team found a ray of hope amidst the gloom</h2>



However, there's a glimmer of hope. The study suggests that by carefully observing mixotroph abundance, scientists may be able to anticipate this crucial tipping point.&nbsp;



"Right before a tipping point, their abundances suddenly start to fluctuate wildly," Wieczynski said. “If you went out in nature and you saw a sudden change from relatively steady abundances to rapid fluctuations, you would know it’s coming.”



An additional factor identified by the study is nutrient pollution. The researchers found that increased levels of nutrients, like nitrate and phosphate, released from wastewater treatment facilities, farms, and lawns could cause the warning signs of rapid fluctuations to disappear, allowing the tipping point to arrive unannounced.



<h2 id="h-investing-in-early-detection-is-crucial">Investing in early detection is crucial</h2>



While these model predictions require validation through real-world observations, they underscore the importance of investing in early detection.&nbsp;



“Tipping points can be short-lived, and thus hard to catch,” Gibert said. “This paper provides us with a search image, something to look out for, and makes those tipping points -- as fleeting as they may be – more likely to be found.”



The research team is hopeful that these findings can contribute to the broader climate science community and help focus efforts on preventative measures. By understanding the role these tiny mixotrophs play in our climate and detecting these fluctuations early, we may be able to implement solutions before reaching these potentially irreversible tipping points.



The research paper, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1365-2435.14350">Functional Ecology</a>, combines a fascinating look into the world of microbial activity with critical insights into climate change. The researchers’ efforts underline the complexity and interconnectedness of our ecosystem and the urgency of monitoring even the tiniest contributors to our climate.



This important work was made possible through the support of the Simons Foundation (grant number 689265), the National Science Foundation (grant number 1851194), and the U.S. Department of Energy (grant number DE-SC0020362). As the world continues to grapple with climate change, studies like this remind us of the importance of research and the potentially game-changing insights it can provide.



<h2 id="h-more-about-plankton">More about plankton</h2>



Plankton is a broad term used to describe the wide range of tiny organisms that drift within oceans, seas, and other bodies of water. The term "plankton" comes from the Greek for "drifter" or "wanderer." They can't swim against the current, but some can move up and down in the water column.



There are two main types of plankton: phytoplankton and zooplankton.



<h3 id="h-phytoplankton">Phytoplankton</h3>



These are the plant-like members of the plankton community, and they're photosynthetic. They're mostly single-celled organisms like cyanobacteria (formerly called blue-green algae) and diatoms but can also form colonies.&nbsp;



Phytoplankton serve as the base of the aquatic food web, providing an essential ecological function for all aquatic life. In addition, phytoplankton is responsible for producing approximately half of the oxygen on Earth through photosynthesis.



<h3 id="h-zooplankton">Zooplankton</h3>



These are the animal-like members of the plankton community, which range from tiny protozoans to large jellyfish. Zooplankton are generally larger than phytoplankton, and they often feed on phytoplankton. There are many types of zooplankton, including single-celled dinoflagellates, tiny crustaceans like copepods and krill, and the larvae of larger animals such as fish and crabs.



It's also important to mention mixotrophs, organisms that can switch between photosynthesis (like phytoplankton) and predation (like zooplankton) depending on their environment. Some dinoflagellates and other types of plankton fall into this category.



Plankton play an essential role in the carbon cycle. Through photosynthesis, phytoplankton absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and use it to produce carbohydrates for growth. When they die, some of their organic matter sinks to the deep ocean, effectively transferring carbon from the atmosphere to the ocean floor. This process is known as the "biological carbon pump."



<h2 id="h-influence-of-plankton-on-the-environment">Influence of plankton on the environment</h2>



Plankton populations can greatly influence weather patterns and climate. For example, phytoplankton blooms can influence cloud formation, because the particles they release can form nuclei around which water droplets condense to make clouds. In addition, because of their role in the carbon cycle, changes in plankton populations can impact atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, influencing global temperatures and climate.



Plankton populations can also serve as an indicator of environmental changes or disruptions. For example, changes in sea temperature, nutrient availability, or water acidity can all impact plankton populations. Scientists often monitor these populations to understand more about current conditions or future trends in the Earth's climate system.



Image Credit: Daniel J. Wieczynski, Duke University



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Rising temperatures may flip plankton into carbon emitters

Scientists at Duke University and the University of California, Santa...

The adage "You are what you eat" has never rung more true. The foods we consume shape our health and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hibernation-may-be-key-to-extraordinary-longevity-in-bats/">longevity</a>, echoing through the course of our lives.&nbsp;



A direct correlation exists between nutritional needs associated with age and our metabolic health. In essence, our age-specific nutritional balance significantly influences our overall wellness.



Indeed, nutrition that aligns perfectly with our age can sustain our metabolic health, leading to a superior health span - the portion of our life unmarred by disease - and eventually lengthening our lifespan. Previous research has indicated that altering nutritional interventions with diverse calorie and protein intake can bolster the health and lifespan of rodents and primates.



Moreover, the latest research has drawn links between dietary macronutrients - proteins, carbohydrates, fats - and cardio-metabolic health and aging in mice. But the enigma persists: what is the precise amount of protein we should eat to maintain metabolic health?



<h2 id="h-how-the-research-team-solved-the-puzzle">How the research team solved the puzzle</h2>



A study published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11357-023-00797-3">GeroScience</a> attempts to solve this puzzle. Led by Professor Yoshitaka Kondo from <a href="https://www.waseda.jp/top/en">Waseda University</a>, a research team delved into the dietary protein quantity required to boost metabolic health in mice advancing in age.



The researchers gathered young (6 months old) and middle-aged (16 months old) male C57BL/6NCr mice for their investigation. They nourished these rodents with isocaloric diets encompassing variable protein content (5 to 45 %) over a two-month span.&nbsp;



The effect of diverse protein diets was then evaluated based on skeletal muscle weight, liver and plasma lipid profiles, and self-organizing map (SOM) cluster analysis of plasma amino acid profiles.



"The optimal balance of macronutrients for ideal health outcomes may vary across different life stages," explained Kondo. "Previous studies show the possibility of minimizing age-specific mortality throughout life by changing the ratio of dietary protein to carbohydrates during approach to old age in mice. However, the amount of protein that should be consumed to maintain metabolic health while approaching old age is still unclear.”



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-learned">What the researchers learned</h2>



The observations were riveting. A low-protein diet culminated in the development of a mild fatty liver, with elevated levels of hepatic lipids in middle-aged mice compared to their younger counterparts.&nbsp;



On the other hand, a diet with moderate protein resulted in diminished blood glucose concentrations and lipid levels in both liver and plasma. These results signified that a moderate-protein diet (25% and 35%) kept mice - both young and middle-aged - in a metabolically healthier state.



The researchers further scrutinized the impact of varying protein diets on plasma amino acid concentrations in mice of both age brackets. They discovered that the plasma concentration of individual amino acids fluctuated with age and varying dietary protein content.&nbsp;



This revelation was further substantiated using SOM analysis of the plasma amino acids. Additionally, the plasma amino acid profiles, as revealed through SOM analysis, displayed a correlation between differing protein intake and the varying quantities of hepatic triglycerides and cholesterol levels.



"Protein requirements change through the course of life, being higher in younger reproductive mice, reducing through middle age, and rising again in older mice as protein efficiency declines. The same pattern is likely to be observed in humans," said Kondo.



"Therefore, it could be assumed that increasing daily protein intake in meals could promote metabolic health of people. Moreover, ideal dietary macronutrient balance at each life stage could also extend health span.”



<h2 id="h-the-secret-has-been-under-your-nose-the-entire-time">The secret has been under your nose the entire time</h2>



Summing it up, the study presents the fascinating proposition that the secret to a long, healthy life might be hidden in our plates - in balanced servings of protein, to be precise. With dietary moderation and age-specific nutrition as guiding principles, maintaining metabolic health might be an achievable feat.



The breakthrough understanding that the optimal balance of dietary protein can minimize age-specific mortality provides an encouraging blueprint for future research in this field. As our understanding deepens, we can hope to see more precise dietary recommendations for different stages of life.



For now, the takeaway message from Kondo and his team's study is clear: a balanced diet with moderate amounts of protein could indeed be a critical key to unlocking a long, healthy life. So, remember, the next time you plan your meal, a dash of protein might just add years to your life.



<h2 id="h-more-about-anti-aging-research">More about anti-aging research</h2>



Anti-aging research is a broad and rapidly expanding field focused on understanding the biological mechanisms that lead to aging and developing interventions to slow down or even reverse these processes. The aim is to extend both lifespan (how long we live) and healthspan (how long we live without disease).



<h3 id="h-telomeres">Telomeres</h3>



One significant area of anti-aging research is the study of telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of our chromosomes. Every time a cell divides, its telomeres shorten, and when they become too short, the cell can no longer divide and becomes senescent or dies. Researchers are studying ways to extend the length of telomeres or delay their shortening to promote cellular health and longevity.



<h3 id="h-aging-at-the-molecular-level">Aging at the molecular level&nbsp;</h3>



Another important area of research involves studying the biology of aging at a molecular level. This includes investigating the roles of specific genes and proteins in aging, exploring how DNA damage and repair affect aging, and how cellular processes such as autophagy (the process by which cells remove and recycle their own components) contribute to aging.



<h3 id="h-reducing-calories">Reducing calories</h3>



Caloric restriction (reducing daily calorie intake without causing malnutrition) has been shown in multiple organisms, from yeast to primates, to extend lifespan. The mechanisms are not entirely understood, but they may involve changes in metabolism and stress responses. There's also ongoing research into developing drugs that could mimic the effects of caloric restriction without the need for reduced food intake.



<h3 id="h-ability-of-cells-to-divide-senescence">Ability of cells to divide (senescence)</h3>



Furthermore, research into senescence - the state in which cells lose their ability to divide and function correctly - is another promising area. Senescent cells accumulate with age and are thought to contribute to aging by causing inflammation and tissue dysfunction. Drugs that can selectively eliminate these senescent cells (known as senolytics) or rejuvenate them are currently under study.



<h3 id="h-age-related-disease">Age-related disease</h3>



Age-related diseases, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, heart disease, and cancer, are also a significant focus of anti-aging research. By understanding how these diseases develop and progress, researchers hope to develop preventative measures and treatments to extend healthspan.



<h3 id="h-lifestyle-factors">Lifestyle factors</h3>



Lastly, research on lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and sleep is essential. These factors have been shown to significantly influence lifespan and healthspan, and researchers are interested in understanding why and how these factors have such profound effects on aging.



It's important to note that while this research is incredibly promising, aging is a complex process involving many interconnected biological systems. Therefore, it's unlikely that there will be a "silver bullet" for aging. Instead, anti-aging research will likely lead to a range of interventions that can be used together to extend healthspan and lifespan.



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Eat well, live longer: A dash of protein could add years to your life

The adage "You are what you eat" has never rung...

Codfish have been telling a story of rapid evolution, reshaped by human activity more swiftly than previously assumed, reveals a cutting-edge study led by <a href="https://www.rutgers.edu/">Rutgers University</a>.



This evolutionary tale, illuminated during the latter half of the twentieth century, signifies the impact of human-driven overfishing. The findings suggest that evolutionary changes, once thought to span millions of years, can be catalyzed within mere decades.&nbsp;



The report, sharing the first genomic evidence of such accelerated evolution in Atlantic cod, has recently been published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2022.0190">Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences</a>.



<h2 id="h-breaking-new-ground-with-modern-technology">Breaking new ground with modern technology</h2>



"We broke new ground," explained study senior author Malin Pinsky. Leveraging modern technology, the researchers unearthed the genetic code of codfish caught over a century ago, unveiling subtle genetic shifts.&nbsp;



Pinsky, an associate professor in the Department of Ecology, Evolution and Natural Resources at Rutgers School of Environmental and Biological Sciences (SEBS), emphasizes that these new techniques played a pivotal role in the discovery.



By the turn of the 20th century, many overfished cod seemed to have cultivated a survival edge. They matured at a younger age, and their smaller size made them less noticeable to fishing efforts, thus increasing their chances of reproducing before capture. The researchers, in their quest to understand this apparent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crocodile-evolution-was-influenced-by-environmental-factors/">evolution</a>, searched for key gene mutations, but this proved fruitless.



<h2 id="h-small-setback-spawned-a-new-approach">Small setback spawned a new approach</h2>



Undaunted by initial setbacks, the team adopted a different approach. They theorized that if changes were spread across a multitude of genes, rather than confined to a select few, their analysis might yield different results. Driven by this hypothesis, and empowered by novel technology, the team discovered the intricate genetic dance of the codfish.



"We have now been able to demonstrate that many genes throughout the genome did shift in the same way in cod from both sides of the Atlantic Ocean over the past 100 years," said study first author Brendan Reid.



This indicates that, rather than an isolated genetic aberration, small changes in numerous genes triggered the cod's evolution. Reid, a postdoctoral associate at SEBS, considers this finding a first of its kind for any overfished species.



Renowned for their mild flavor and flaky flesh, Atlantic cod inhabit the deep-sea regions of the North Atlantic. They have been a staple ingredient in traditional dishes like fish and chips, and their livers are used to produce vitamin-rich cod liver oil. However, during the 1990s, decades of unrelenting overfishing pushed their population down to just 1% of historical levels.



<h2 id="h-a-new-hope-in-the-fight-against-overfishing">A new hope in the fight against overfishing</h2>



Commercial fishing practices underwent a radical transformation in the 1970s, with powerful trawlers equipped with sophisticated radar and sonar systems. These technologies expanded fishing reach, both in terms of depth and duration.&nbsp;



Unfortunately, this resulted in accelerated depletion of cod stocks, culminating in the fishery's collapse and, as the Rutgers research suggests, the cod's swift evolution.



This research brings not just fascinating insights but also glimmers of hope for the beleaguered codfish. Their population, which has been slowly recovering since fishing pressure lessened, could potentially regain its former glory.



"Since evolution in response to fishing happened through lots of small changes in many genes rather than large changes in one or two genes, and cod have maintained most of their genetic diversity, it will be easier for cod to evolve back towards their previous pattern of slower growth at large sizes,” said Reid.



The scientist also notes encouraging signs in the cod population, suggesting the possibility of a return to previous growth patterns and, with proper management, the restoration of a sustainable fishery.



This research, a testament to international collaboration, also included contributions from Bastiaan Star of the University of Oslo in Norway.



<h2 id="h-more-about-overfishing">More about overfishing</h2>



Overfishing, or the practice of depleting a fish population to below its natural ability to reproduce and replenish, has far-reaching implications for both the environment and humanity. Its impacts are numerous and interconnected, affecting ecosystems, economies, and global food security.



<h3 id="h-ecosystem-disruption">Ecosystem Disruption</h3>



Overfishing is one of the primary threats to ocean biodiversity. The removal of a significant number of a particular fish species can unbalance the marine ecosystem.&nbsp;



Predatory fish like sharks, tuna, and cod, which are often targeted by commercial fishing, play crucial roles in maintaining the balance of marine life. Their decline can trigger a cascading effect through the food chain, allowing other species to become overly abundant and destabilizing the marine ecosystem.&nbsp;



For instance, the decline in large predator fish can lead to an overabundance of smaller fish or invertebrates, which can then over-consume vegetation and other smaller organisms, disrupting the balance of the ecosystem.



<h3 id="h-loss-of-livelihood">Loss of Livelihood</h3>



Overfishing not only affects the health of our oceans but also the livelihood of millions of people. According to the United Nations, over 3 billion people depend on marine and coastal biodiversity for their livelihoods.&nbsp;



When fish stocks collapse, the fishing industry - including all those involved in the supply chain, such as boat operators, processors, sellers, and other associated jobs - can be severely impacted. In many developing countries, where alternatives for income are limited, the effects can be particularly devastating.



<h3 id="h-threat-to-food-security">Threat to Food Security</h3>



Fish is a crucial source of protein and nutrition for billions of people around the world. Overfishing threatens this vital food source, particularly in poorer countries where people are more dependent on fish for dietary needs.&nbsp;



As per the Food and Agriculture Organization, fish provide more than 20 percent of animal protein for about 3.2 billion people. Depleting fish stocks can thus pose a serious risk to global food security.



<h3 id="h-harm-to-coral-reefs">Harm to Coral Reefs</h3>



Overfishing can also harm coral reefs, which are critical habitats for many fish species. Certain types of fishing, such as blast or cyanide fishing, directly destroy coral habitats. Also, the removal of herbivorous fish can lead to the unchecked growth of algae, which can smother coral reefs and disrupt the ecosystem's balance.



<h3 id="h-economic-implications">Economic Implications</h3>



Overfishing can have significant economic repercussions. The World Bank estimates that the mismanagement of fisheries results in an annual loss of $83 billion globally. Ensuring sustainable fishing practices can thus lead to economic benefits as well as ecological ones.



In summary, overfishing is a pressing global issue that extends beyond just the depletion of fish stocks. It has wide-reaching impacts on the marine ecosystem, global economies, and human livelihoods and food security.&nbsp;



Addressing overfishing requires coordinated global efforts to implement sustainable fishing practices, enforce regulatory measures, and raise awareness about the importance of preserving marine biodiversity.



—-



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Fish evolution takes place in decades - not millions of years

Codfish have been telling a story of rapid evolution, reshaped...

A groundbreaking study from the <a href="https://asm.org/">American Society for Microbiology</a> reveals that domestic cats can play an instrumental role in the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-plant-virus-could-help-cure-cancer/">virus</a> responsible for COVID-19. In fact, our feline companions can not only contract the virus but also spread it to other cats and even contaminate their environment.



This study, published in the journal <a href="https://journals.asm.org/journal/spectrum">Microbiology Spectrum</a>, offers vital insights into the potential risks associated with cats infected with the virus.



"In practice, after introduction of SARS-CoV-2 in our household, we should see our cat as part of the family regarding virus transmission," said study co-author Professor Wim van der Poel.



<h2 id="h-how-the-research-was-conducted">How the research was conducted</h2>



To understand the risks related to COVID-19 infection from cats, Professor Van der Poel and his team conducted an extensive study. They tested 16 cats, which were exposed to the virus in several ways.&nbsp;



Some cats were directly exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus obtained from a human patient naturally infected with COVID-19. Other cats were exposed indirectly, either through contact with a directly exposed cat or through exposure in a pen where an infected cat was housed.



Throughout the study, the researchers closely monitored the cats and carried out regular testing. They collected nasal and oropharyngeal samples, along with blood samples.&nbsp;



The team also gathered environmental samples from the pens. All samples were subsequently tested for SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, the blood samples were scrutinized for SARS-CoV-2 antibody development.



The sampling process was meticulous and spanned three weeks, starting from the day the cats were directly exposed to the virus. The team took nasal and oropharyngeal samples three times during this period.&nbsp;



Similarly, they collected oral and rectal samples 15 times. The goal was to evaluate both direct and indirect transmissions of SARS-CoV-2 between the cats.



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-learned">What the researchers learned</h2>



The team found that cats are indeed susceptible to SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, infected cats can efficiently transmit the virus to their peers and contaminate their environment. While the environment can potentially be infectious, this infectiousness rapidly decays over time.



"SARS-CoV-2 transmission between cats is efficient and can be sustained," said Professor Van der Poel. "Infections of cats via exposure to a SARS-CoV-2-contaminated environment cannot be discounted if cats are exposed shortly after contamination."



The team discovered that the average duration of infectiousness was slightly more than one-third of a day. This duration was estimated based on the periods when the virus was detected in the cats' excreta, including oral/nasal fluid or feces.



To ensure the safety of all involved, Van der Poel noted that the team did not expose humans to the infectious cats. "Our animal handlers were always fully protected."&nbsp;



Yet, he cautioned that we should consider the risk of transmission from our pets: "We must assume that cat owners can be infected by SARS-CoV-2 infected cats since these cats excrete infectious virus."



Moving forward, the research team plans to further investigate SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility in different animal species and delve deeper into the risks associated with virus transmission.



<h2 id="h-more-about-animals-and-covid-19">More about animals and COVID-19</h2>



Research has shown that SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, has the ability to infect various animal species, not just humans.



Many of the earliest reported cases of COVID-19 were linked to a seafood market in Wuhan, China, which also sold live wild animals, suggesting a possible zoonotic origin. In fact, SARS-CoV-2 is part of a larger family of coronaviruses known to cause diseases in a range of mammals and birds.&nbsp;



The exact pathway of transmission to humans remains under investigation, but the virus is believed to have originated in bats and may have passed to humans through another species.



<h3 id="h-other-animals-that-can-be-infected">Other animals that can be infected</h3>



Several animals, including household pets such as cats and dogs, have been reported to be infected with SARS-CoV-2, mostly after close contact with people with COVID-19.&nbsp;



In addition to domestic animals, the virus has also been found in farmed mink, and these animals appear to be particularly susceptible to the virus. There have been instances of mink transmitting the virus back to humans, highlighting the potential for a feedback loop of transmission between humans and animals.



Experiments have shown that a variety of animals can be infected with the virus in a laboratory setting, including ferrets, hamsters, and monkeys. This research has helped scientists understand how the virus spreads and impacts different species, aiding in the development of vaccines and treatments.



Zoos have also reported infections in animals. For example, lions and tigers at the Bronx Zoo in New York were confirmed to have COVID-19 in April 2020, likely infected by a caretaker. And gorillas at the San Diego Zoo tested positive for the virus in January 2021.



<h3 id="h-transmission-animal-human-of-covid-19-can-go-both-ways">Transmission animal/human of COVID-19 can go both ways</h3>



The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains that the risk of animals spreading SARS-CoV-2 to people is considered to be low, and the primary mode of transmission is human-to-human through respiratory droplets. However, it is recommended that people with COVID-19 limit contact with pets and other animals until more is known about the virus.



On the other side of the equation, there is concern about humans transmitting the virus to wildlife, particularly to species that are already endangered. This could introduce a new disease threat and potentially decimate populations that are already vulnerable.&nbsp;



For example, great apes share 98 percent of their DNA with humans and are known to be susceptible to human respiratory illnesses, hence there's concern about the potential impact of COVID-19 on these species.



Research into how SARS-CoV-2 affects animals and the potential for transmission between humans and animals is ongoing. It's a critical part of the puzzle in understanding this virus and managing the pandemic.



—-



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Shock discovery: Cats play a role in spreading COVID-19

A groundbreaking study from the American Society for Microbiology reveals...

Aerial,Drone,Top,View,Photo,Of,Small,Exotic,Atoll,Island

Today, <a href="https://www.science.org/journal/sciadv">Science Advances</a> published a groundbreaking study demonstrating that large-scale, offshore, fully-protected marine areas, often referred to as MPAs, are critical for preserving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predators-help-prevent-biodiversity-loss/">biodiversity</a> without posing detrimental effects on the fishing industry or food security.&nbsp;



The study unveils the evidence drawn from the first-ever “before and after” assessment of the impact on the fishing industry from establishing Mexico’s Revillagigedo National Park.



The research team, composed of US and Mexican scientists, discovered that the industrial fishing sector in Mexico experienced no economic losses five years after the creation of the park, even with a comprehensive fishing ban within the MPA.&nbsp;



This counters the common fears among fishermen and provides a reassuring response to the doubts raised by the Mexican industrial fishing lobby when the park was proposed. They argued that such a ban would negatively affect their catches and raise costs.



<h2 id="h-where-the-study-was-done">Where the study was done</h2>



Revillagigedo National Park, established in 2017, is also known as the "Galápagos of Mexico." Ranking as the world's 13th largest MPA, it stands as one of the few marine areas where all damaging human activities, including fishing, are strictly prohibited.&nbsp;



This stringent protection aims to aid the recovery of marine populations in the region, which hosts a diverse array of marine life. It shelters not only a significant aggregation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-activities-threaten-australian-tiger-sharks/">sharks</a>, manta rays, tuna, humpback whales, and five species of sea turtles, but also more than 300 species of fish, 36 of which are uniquely found within these waters.



Study co-author Enric Sala is an Explorer in Residence at the National Geographic Society and founder of Pristine Seas. He commented: "This study, utilizing satellite tracking of fishing vessels and artificial intelligence (AI), shows that the fishing industry’s concerns are unfounded."&nbsp;



Sala stressed that even the largest MPAs, which protect entire ecosystems and thousands of marine species, don't impinge upon the fishing industry's targeted species. "The larger the MPA, the larger the benefits."



<h2 id="h-how-the-research-team-conducted-the-study">How the research team conducted the study</h2>



The study was undertaken by researchers from several institutions: the Mexican Center for Marine Biodiversity, <a href="https://scripps.ucsd.edu/">UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography</a>, the Institute of Americas' Gulf of California Marine Program, and the National Geographic Society.&nbsp;



The experts scrutinized the behavior and productivity of the Mexican industrial fishing sector both before and five years after the introduction of North America's largest fully protected MPA, the Revillagigedo National Park.



The researchers harnessed various data sources to conduct their study: satellite tracking data, fish catch records from the Mexican Fisheries Commission, and cutting-edge AI tools from the Allen Institute for AI's Skylight platform. The ultimate objective was to determine if the creation of the MPA led to a reduction in fishing within the protected area, altered fishing catches, and caused the expansion of fishing into a larger area, which could consequently negatively affect marine biodiversity.



Dr. Fabio Favoretto, a postdoctoral scholar at Scripps Institution of Oceanography and lead author of the study, underlined the importance of satellite tracking devices and AI monitoring platforms in demonstrating compliance from the fishing industry.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-results-of-the-study">Results of the study</h2>



The data revealed that the Revillagigedo National Park's creation didn't have any adverse effects on the Mexican industrial fleet's catches or compel them to expand their fishing territories.



Additionally, the team employed machine learning to detect patterns associated with vessels. The satellite data analyzed were collected from GPS devices installed on approximately 2,000 fishing vessels.&nbsp;



The Skylight platform revealed only sporadic incidents of illegal fishing within the MPA after its establishment in 2017, emphasizing the potency of technology in protecting the 147,000 square kilometers of waters within the park’s boundary.



Contradicting the Mexican fishing industry's initial concern of losing 20 percent of their tuna and other pelagic catches the study provided convincing evidence that large, fully-protected MPAs can encourage a more sustainable and equitable use of the ocean without causing severe economic repercussions to the fishing industry.



Professor Octavio Aburto, co-author of the study and a marine biology expert at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, affirmed these findings. "Any argument to the contrary were just assumptions - this study provides the data to show that negative impacts to fishing do not exist," said Aburto.



He hopes this research will spark productive conversations with the fishing industry, ultimately leading to improved fish stocks and better protection of biodiversity.



<h2 id="h-safeguarding-biodiversity">Safeguarding biodiversity</h2>



This research comes at a crucial juncture when nations are considering how to achieve the global goal set forth at the UN Global Biodiversity Conference (COP15) in December 2022, to protect and conserve at least 30% of the ocean by 2030. Furthermore, just last month, United Nations members agreed on a legally-binding instrument to safeguard biodiversity in international waters beyond national jurisdictions.



"If the world is serious about protecting the natural world - our life support system - we need to drastically increase ocean protection," said Sala. "The clock is ticking until 2030."



The world's oceanic biodiversity, threatened by human activities such as overfishing, is rapidly diminishing, creating potential risks to food security, health, and the environment. By swiftly establishing marine protected areas in strategic ocean areas, the world can collectively secure more than 80 percent of the habitats of endangered species, a considerable leap from a current coverage of less than two percent.



Amid these global conversations, this study offers empirical evidence that large-scale MPAs within countries’ Exclusive Economic Zones can aid in reaching global conservation goals without compromising fisheries’ interests or a nation’s food security assurance.



<h2 id="h-hope-for-the-future">Hope for the future</h2>



The results challenge the long-held belief, propagated by the industrial fishing lobby, that ocean protection damages fisheries. Instead, the study suggests new avenues to rejuvenate the industry that is currently struggling due to overfishing and the impacts of global warming.&nbsp;



"Some argue that closing areas to fishing hurts fishing interests. But the worst enemy of fishing is overfishing and bad management - not protected areas," said Sala.&nbsp;



The findings of this study promise to enrich discussions in Mexico and elsewhere. Catalina López-Sagástegui, a co-author of the study and a researcher at the Institute of Americas, believes that "access to data and technology is improving our collective understanding of marine ecosystems health, which allows us to design and implement MPAs that help restore the health and resilience of marine ecosystems, benefiting fisheries in the long term."



Even those not directly involved in the study, like Dr. Reniel Cabral of James Cook University in Australia, concur with the study's findings. "It’s simple: When overfishing and other damaging activities cease, marine life bounces back. Target species and large predators come back, and entire ecosystems are restored within MPAs. With time, the ocean can heal itself and again provide services to humankind," said Dr. Cabral.



“MPAs are the most effective tool we have for protecting the health and diversity of our oceans," said Sala. "Our study helps to dispel the myth put forward by the industrial fishing lobby that MPAs harm them.”



Funding for the study was provided by Oceans 5 and the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation, underscoring their commitment to understanding and protecting our oceans. As the study's findings make clear, protecting our oceans is not just about safeguarding marine life, it's also about ensuring a sustainable future for our fishing industry, and ultimately, for us all.



<h2 id="h-more-about-marine-protected-areas-mpas">More about Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)</h2>



Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are designated regions in the oceans or seas where human activities are more tightly regulated than in the surrounding waters to protect the natural or cultural resources contained within.&nbsp;



These resources can include various types of marine life, such as fish, crustaceans, and coral reefs, or even archaeological sites like shipwrecks.



<h3 id="h-benefits-of-mpas">Benefits of MPAs&nbsp;</h3>



<h4 id="h-protecting-biodiversity">Protecting Biodiversity&nbsp;</h4>



MPAs can help preserve diverse ecosystems and marine species, many of which are threatened or endangered.



<h4 id="h-maintaining-ecological-processes">Maintaining Ecological Processes</h4>



They protect the ecological processes necessary for the survival of marine life, like breeding and feeding.



<h4 id="h-supporting-fisheries">Supporting Fisheries</h4>



MPAs can improve the health of fish populations, leading to increased fish numbers and sizes, which can spill over into surrounding fishing areas.



<h4 id="h-safeguarding-cultural-heritage">Safeguarding Cultural Heritage</h4>



MPAs may protect culturally important sites and traditional fishing grounds.



<h4 id="h-enabling-scientific-research">Enabling Scientific Research</h4>



They offer opportunities for scientific research and monitoring of marine ecosystems and biodiversity.



<h4 id="h-enhancing-tourism">Enhancing Tourism</h4>



Well-managed MPAs can attract tourists for wildlife watching, snorkeling, and scuba diving, thus benefiting local economies.



There are various types of MPAs with different levels of protection. Some allow sustainable fishing and other non-extractive activities, while others, known as "no-take" zones or marine reserves, ban all forms of extraction, including fishing and mining.



The percentage of the world's oceans covered by MPAs is still far from the international target set in the Convention on Biological Diversity's Aichi Biodiversity Targets, and the newer 30x30 campaign, which aim to protect 30% of the Earth's land and sea areas by 2030. It is crucial to continue expanding and managing MPAs effectively to safeguard our oceans' health and biodiversity.



—-



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Large ocean sanctuaries do not impact regional fishing industries

Today, Science Advances published a groundbreaking study demonstrating that large-scale,...

In a striking revelation, a survey has unearthed a new facet of how the COVID-19 lockdowns have tampered with our collective consciousness. Participants asked to remember the timing of significant events from 2021 showcased a high rate of errors.&nbsp;



These surprising insights spring from a study conducted by Daria Pawlak and Arash Sahraie of the University of Aberdeen, UK. Their findings have been published in the open-access journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0278250">PLOS ONE</a>.



Remembering past events often poses a challenge, especially as time marches on. Yet, our perception of time is not an isolated phenomenon. It's intertwined with our actions and emotions.&nbsp;



The unique circumstances created by the COVID-19 lockdowns have had a profound effect on both. Social isolation dictated by the lockdowns changed our daily routines, often throwing our emotions into a whirlpool. Earlier research has already hinted at the pandemic's influence in causing distortions in people's perception of time.



<h2 id="h-mysterious-link-between-time-perception-and-the-pandemic">Mysterious link between time perception and the pandemic</h2>



The intriguing link between the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pets-and-owners-had-complex-relationships-during-the-pandemic/">pandemic</a> and time perception, backed by clinical reports of patients struggling to create accurate timelines of their medical history, inspired Pawlak and Sahraie. They embarked on a journey to delve deeper into the pandemic's effect on our sense of time.



In May 2022, Pawlak and Sahraie conducted an online survey. They presented 277 participants with questions about the year of several memorable recent events, such as the finalization of Brexit or Meghan Markle's entry into the British royal family. The study also examined factors related to mental health, including levels of boredom, depression, and resilience.



Not surprisingly, participants found it harder to accurately recall events from the distant past. However, what emerged as an unexpected trend was their struggle to remember events from 2021 - a mere year before the survey.&nbsp;



In fact, their recollection of 2021 was as flawed as their memories of events from three to four years prior. The year of the lockdown seemed to have blurred in their memories, leaving them grappling to pinpoint events accurately.



<h2 id="h-another-disturbing-correlation-discovered">Another disturbing correlation discovered</h2>



Alongside these intriguing findings, Pawlak and Sahraie discovered a correlation between errors in timing and mental health. Participants who misremembered event timings were also more likely to have experienced heightened levels of depression, anxiety, and physical mental demands during the lockdowns.&nbsp;



Interestingly, these individuals showcased lesser resilience. However, no significant correlation emerged between timeline accuracy and boredom. The results mirror previous observations made with prison inmates. This led the authors to propose a theory.&nbsp;



Accurate recollection of event timing, they argue, requires "anchoring" life events. These could be occasions like birthday celebrations or vacations, events noticeably absent during the lockdown. This lack of distinctive markers, they suggest, might have contributed to the collective disorientation in remembering the timing of significant 2021 events.



“Our paper reports on altered timescapes during the pandemic. In a landscape, if features are not clearly discernible, it is harder to place objects/yourself in relation to other features," said the researchers.



"Restrictions imposed during the pandemic have impoverished our timescape, affecting the perception of event timelines. We can recall that events happened, we just don’t remember when."



<h2 id="h-more-about-the-covid-19-pandemic">More about the COVID-19 pandemic</h2>



The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has been a global health crisis of unprecedented scale since its emergence in late 2019.



Originating in Wuhan, China, the virus swiftly spread worldwide. It was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) in March 2020. The virus primarily spreads through respiratory droplets, transmitted when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also survive on surfaces for varying amounts of time, leading to indirect transmission.



COVID-19 symptoms range from mild to severe and can result in death, particularly in older individuals and those with underlying health conditions. Symptoms typically include fever, cough, loss of taste or smell, and difficulty breathing. However, a significant number of infected individuals remain asymptomatic, unknowingly contributing to the virus's spread.



Globally, governments implemented varying degrees of public health measures to curb the virus's spread. These included quarantines, travel restrictions, mask mandates, social distancing measures, and in many cases, complete lockdowns. These measures significantly impacted every aspect of life, leading to an international economic slowdown, disruptions in education, and an increase in mental health issues.



Scientific and medical communities worldwide worked at unprecedented speed to understand the virus and develop treatments and vaccines. By early 2021, multiple vaccines had received emergency use authorizations, and vaccination campaigns began worldwide. These vaccines have proven highly effective in preventing severe illness and death, though challenges remain, such as vaccine distribution equity and the emergence of new virus variants.



The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of global health security, exposed weaknesses in health systems worldwide, and underscored the need for international cooperation in tackling health crises. The virus continues to evolve, and dealing with its ongoing effects remains a global challenge.



—-



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The COVID-19 pandemic blurred our memories

In a striking revelation, a survey has unearthed a new...

Deep down, we all have that burning sense of curiosity, that insatiable urge to explore the unknown. But how does this curiosity manifest in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/adults-are-more-compassionate-when-children-are-nearby/">children</a> compared to our closest animal relatives, the great apes? The answer may surprise you.



Researchers Alejandro Sánchez-Amaro of the <a href="https://www.eva.mpg.de/index/">Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology</a> and Federico Rossano of the <a href="https://ucsd.edu/">University of California San Diego</a> have recently published their findings in the open-access journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0285946">PLOS ONE</a>.&nbsp;



This study marks the first direct comparison between human children and great apes regarding their propensity for exploration and risk-taking.



<h2 id="h-how-the-study-was-conducted">How the study was conducted</h2>



The investigation centered around a series of ingenious experiments involving rewards hidden under upturned cups. Children, chimpanzees, gorillas, bonobos, and orangutans were all presented with the same choice.



In each case, two cups were presented to the subjects. One cup, transparent, held a small reward visible to the participant - grapes for the apes, stickers for the children. The second cup was opaque, effectively concealing a larger reward. The test was designed to see whether the subjects would opt for the sure thing or take a gamble on the hidden, potentially greater, reward.



Children showed an outstanding inclination to explore the unknown, with 85 and 77 percent of them choosing the opaque cup at least once in the fourth and fifth trials, respectively. The apes, in contrast, were more cautious, with only 24 percent choosing the mysterious cup in the third trial.



However, when researchers briefly revealed the hidden reward and allowed participants a second chance at their choice, the playing field leveled somewhat. An overwhelming majority of both children and apes, over 88%, chose the opaque cup with the more substantial reward.



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-learned">What the researchers learned</h2>



The researchers observed that, although children seemed naturally more drawn to uncertainty and exploration, apes could learn the potential benefits of such behavior and adapt. In essence, the apes' decision-making became more adventurous after gaining awareness of the possible rewards of risk-taking.



"This study is the first to compare curiosity in human children and great apes using the same experimental set-up," said Sánchez-Amaro and Rossano. They believe the results imply that children may be inherently more inclined to explore the unknown, or perhaps they are simply less risk-averse than great apes.&nbsp;



However, they note, "after learning about the rewards of exploring uncertainty, apes quickly applied this knowledge to future scenarios."



This study offers an exciting glimpse into the cognitive parallels and differences between humans and our evolutionary cousins, and the potential role of curiosity in survival and learning. It reinforces the idea that exploration and risk-taking, tempered by learning and experience, are shared traits that span across our evolutionary family tree.



“In this comparative set of studies, we explored whether children and non-human great apes would be curious to forego a visible benefit under a transparent cup to explore an uncertain option under an opaque cup," said the researchers. "We found that children were more likely to explore the uncertain option than the great apes when no other information was available."&nbsp;



"Only after we unveiled the content of alternative opaque cups, which yielded better outcomes than the visible options during an intervention phase, did apes quickly overcome their initial risk aversion towards uncertain options. Children continued engaging in some level of exploration to diversify their options.”



<h2 id="h-the-evolutionary-benefits-of-curiosity">The evolutionary benefits of curiosity</h2>



Curiosity, the drive to seek out and explore new environments, is an integral part of many creatures' behavioral repertoire. But why has evolution favored this trait? How has curiosity provided a survival advantage to organisms across various species? Let's delve a little deeper.



<h3 id="h-knowledge-and-learning">Knowledge and Learning</h3>



Curiosity fuels learning and the acquisition of knowledge. It drives organisms to explore their surroundings, understand cause-and-effect relationships, and learn about the potential dangers and opportunities that exist. This continual process of learning helps creatures to adapt better to their environments, survive, and reproduce. In humans, our advanced cognitive abilities allow us to build on this knowledge over generations, leading to the development of complex societies and technologies.



<h3 id="h-resource-discovery">Resource Discovery</h3>



Curiosity can lead organisms to discover new resources. This might include finding new sources of food or better habitats. For example, an animal's curiosity might lead it to explore a new territory, where it discovers abundant food or a safer nesting place. This aspect of curiosity can be particularly beneficial in changing environments or when resources are scarce.



<h3 id="h-problem-solving">Problem-Solving</h3>



Curiosity is a key driver in problem-solving, a critical skill for survival in many species. It encourages individuals to experiment with different solutions when faced with challenges. Curious animals, including humans, tend to be better problem-solvers as they explore different strategies and learn from their experiences.



<h3 id="h-social-bonding">Social Bonding</h3>



Curiosity about others can lead to social bonding and improved group dynamics. In many social species, including humans, individuals show curiosity about each other. This can lead to stronger social bonds, improved cooperation, and better group cohesion, all of which can enhance survival.



<h3 id="h-innovation-and-evolution">Innovation and Evolution</h3>



On a larger scale, curiosity can lead to innovation and evolution. By driving organisms to explore and experiment, it can lead to the development of new behaviors, technologies, and ways of life. These can then spread through populations and drive evolutionary change.



It's important to note, however, that like many traits, curiosity comes with trade-offs. While it can lead to learning and the discovery of new resources, it can also expose an individual to risks. Too much curiosity can lead to wasted time, energy, or even danger if a curious individual exposes themselves to unnecessary risks. Therefore, a balance of curiosity and caution is often the most advantageous approach.



Overall, curiosity has been a major driver of survival, learning, and evolution in numerous species. As a result, it remains a fascinating area of study for scientists seeking to understand animal and human behavior.



—-



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Are children more curious than apes? Yes, and no, finds new study

Deep down, we all have that burning sense of curiosity,...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Nushagak Bay, a large estuary in southwest Alaska. Nushagak runs mainly north to south and exits in Bristol Bay, a large body of water in the Bering Sea.



"The bay is primarily fed by the Nushagak River, which begins in the Alaska Range and flows southwest approximately 450 km. The bay is also fed by several additional rivers including the Wood, Igushik, Snake and Weary rivers," says ESA.



"The dark colors of the Nushagak River are most likely due to tannins or lignins (chemical substances found in plants). Tannins and lignins from roots, leaves, seeds, bark and soil can leach into the water and give it a brown or even black colour. The sediments then flow southwards where it is mixed with the bluer waters of the bay."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> (ACS) reveals that proteins on flu viruses are actually flexible, tilting and waving in a “breath-like” motion. According to the experts, these proteins could be used to better defend against the flu.



"The main antigenic targets of influenza virus are two surface glycoproteins, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Whereas the structural and dynamical properties of both glycoproteins have been studied previously, the understanding of their plasticity in the whole-virion context is fragmented," wrote the researchers.



To investigate, the team conducted detailed simulations of the influenza A H1N1 virion, or the swine flu. The experts concluded that the visualizations show many new vulnerable states of flu viruses, which could improve future vaccines and antiviral drugs.



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Lake Trasimeno, which is located west of Perugia in central Italy. It is the fourth largest lake in the country. While Trasimeno’s water level varies, it has a maximum depth of approximately six meters.&nbsp;



"In this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image, captured on 6 August 2022, the lake’s emerald green colour is likely due to the presence of phytoplankton. Streaks in the water, particularly visible in the west, indicate the presence of soil and sediments which have been stirred up by winds. Dark colored waters in the southern part of the lake indicate a presence of submerged and floating macrophytes (aquatic plants) as well as algae," says ESA.



"Surrounded by hills on three sides, Trasimeno is subject to heavy storms created by winds, especially from the north and west. There are three islets in the lake: Maggiore, Minore and Polvese (the largest). The lake’s shores are sparsely inhabited with only two popular villages: Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno."



"Italy is experiencing its worst drought in 70 years which has affected drinking water supplies, hydroelectric power and agricultural production. High temperatures, hot winds and lack of rainfall are the main causes of drought in the Umbrian region which saw Lake Trasimeno’s drop 1.3 m, reaching the limit of the hydrometric zero in July 2022."



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes a new self-powered nanosensor that can instantly detect mercury contamination with the tap of a finger.&nbsp;



The oxidized form of mercury can be harmful when it is ingested through contaminated water or food. This makes it necessary for experts to develop sensors that can quickly and accurately detect the presence of mercury.&nbsp;



Zong-Hong Lin and colleagues have now created a triboelectric nanosensor (TENS) that can detect mercury by simply by touching a sample. According to the researchers, their TENS could serve as the basis for similar devices to safely and remotely monitor other pollutants.



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Kainji Lake, a reservoir on the Niger River.



In 1968, Kainji Lake was created by the construction of the Kainji Dam. The Niger River, the third longest in Africa, enters the lake in the north.&nbsp;



According to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-in-the-american-west-are-a-lifesaving-resource-for-birds/">ESA</a>, the creation of the lake submerged Foge Island and the town of Bussa and permanently flooded other riverine settlements, leaving around 50,000 people displaced.&nbsp;



Large parts of Foge Island are temporarily exposed during low water tides, and the land is often used by migrating fishermen. Kainji Dam is a dam across the Niger River in Niger State of Central Nigeria. 



Wild mammals occur at relatively low densities due to illegal hunting. Lake Kainji has suffered a dramatic decline as a fishery due to the high numbers of artisanal and subsistence fisherfolk using the lake. It has been suggested that a period of closure, together with controlled fishing rights may help improve fish stocks.



Kainji Lake National Park is the oldest of its kind in Nigeria. The park contains three distinct areas: a part of the Kainji Lake, the Borgu Game Reserve to the west of the lake, and the Zugurma Game Reserve to the southeast. The park is home to around 65 mammal species, 350 bird species, and 30 species of reptiles and amphibians. 



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.igb.illinois.edu/">Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology</a> reveals how scientists can modify common crops like soybean, rice, and wheat to protect them from heat stress.



“We need to double crop production by 2050 to feed a growing global population, and not only are we not on track to do that, but climate change is further complicating things,” said Amanda Cavanagh, a lecturer at the University of Essex. 



The study is part of Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE), an international research project that aims to develop food crops that turn the sun’s energy into food more efficiently.



“Using an engineering approach we designed multiple alternative metabolic pathways to photorespiration. Testing them in the field showed increases in productivity which led Amanda to significantly move the project forward by showing our engineered plants can withstand pretty extreme temperature stress,” said study co-author and RIPE researcher Paul South.&nbsp;



“As the climate changes and temperature stresses increase the pressure on our global food supply, farmers will need every tool available including engineering approaches like the synthetic biology used here to maintain safe and productive harvests.”



The experts tested plants modified to have more efficient photorespiration to see if they were better adapted to warmer temperatures.&nbsp;



The team found that the engineered plants produced 26 percent more biomass than the wild-type plants exposed to the same temperatures, and had 15 percent less yield loss under the higher temperatures.



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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Assateague Island is a 37-mile (60 km) long barrier island located off the eastern coast of the Delmarva Peninsula facing the Atlantic Ocean. The northern two-thirds of the island is in Maryland while the southern third is in Virginia. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/assateague-island-national-seashore-maryland-2/">Maryland</a> section contains the majority of Assateague Island National Seashore and Assateague State Park. The Virginia section contains Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and a one-mile stretch of land containing the lifeguarded recreational beach and interpretive facilities managed by the National Park Service (or NPS). It is best known for its herds of feral horses, pristine beaches and the Assateague Lighthouse. The island also contains numerous marshes, bays, and coves, including Toms Cove.



Camping is available only in the Maryland district of Assateague Island. Reservations are required from March 15 through November 15. Campsite reservations are available six months in advance.&nbsp; Oceanside Drive-in:&nbsp;Tents, trailers and recreational vehicles (no hookups). Sites have a picnic table and a fire ring.&nbsp;Oceanside Walk-in:&nbsp;Tent-only sites, located 100-200 feet from centralized parking areas. Sites have a picnic table and a fire ring. Walk-in sites are closed from November 16 through March 14. Bayside Drive-in:&nbsp;Tents, trailers and recreational vehicles (no hookups). Sites have a picnic table and a fire ring. A Drive-In "Generator-Free Zone" is located in Bayside B Loop. Horse Camp:&nbsp;There are 2 campsites for horse camping available October 16 through April 14. Each site accommodates up to 6 people and 6 horses.&nbsp;Assateague has two oceanside and four bayside camping areas in Maryland for visitors who wish to backpack or paddle the island.