Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory </a>&nbsp;features an astronaut photograph of Abu Dhabi, located on the coast of the Persian Gulf.



Abu Dhabi is the capital and the second-most populous city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is also the capital of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, the largest of the UAE's seven emirates.&nbsp;



Abu Dhabi possesses around 9% of the world's proven oil reserves and about 5% of the world's natural gas. Consequently, oil exports have fueled its rapid development and provided substantial wealth.



"Prior to the formation of the UAE in the 1970s, Abu Dhabi was a municipality of less than 62,000 people. The region experienced a rapid population increase over the past five decades due to its role in the petroleum and financial industries, which enabled the city’s population to grow to about 1.5 million people by the early 2020s," said NASA.



The city places a strong emphasis on promoting Emirati culture and heritage. It hosts numerous events, festivals, and has several museums and cultural centers.



"The landscape of the Abu Dhabi emirate is mainly composed of wind-blown sand, mangroves, rocky outcrops, and intertidal flats. The Abu Dhabi Sabkha, visible along the coastline as brown, non-vegetated land, was produced by wind erosion of ancient dunes and the deposition of tidal sediments," said NASA.



"Sabkhas are flat coastal areas that are characteristically high in salt. The abundance of salt in the soil limits the ability of vegetation to develop on the sabkha."



"In contrast to the barren sabkha, green mangrove forests are present along the coastline as well. Mangrove forests are regions of shrubs and trees with dense root systems that protect the intertidal zones from coastal erosion."



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates

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

Today's Image of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features a Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission view of Tutuila, a tropical island in the American Samoa archipelago.



American Samoa is an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the South Pacific Ocean. It consists of five main islands and two atolls. The largest and most populous island is Tutuila, where Pago Pago, the capital city, is situated.



The eastern part of the chain of islands forms the American Samoa, while the western part forms the independent state of Samoa.



Tutuila Island is known for its rugged terrain, lush landscapes, and deep harbors. It's the economic and political center of American Samoa, with the majority of the population residing here. The island's geography features volcanic peaks, with Mount Alava and Matafao Peak being the highest points, offering stunning views and rich biodiversity.



American Samoa as a whole has a unique blend of American and Samoan culture. The territory maintains traditional Samoan customs, making it a fascinating place for cultural studies. The economy primarily revolves around fishing and the services sector, with canned tuna being a significant export.



The National Park of American Samoa, partly located on Tutuila, helps preserve the tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and Samoan culture. This park is unique because it's one of the only national parks in the United States that's leased rather than owned by the government, reflecting the strong communal land traditions of Samoa.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Tutuila in the American Samoa archipelago 

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

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the summit crater of Mount Erebus peeking through the clouds. Erebus is the southernmost active volcano on Earth and the second-highest volcano in Antarctica.



Mount Erebus is situated on Ross Island in the Ross Sea. It was discovered in 1841 by the British explorer Sir James Clark Ross, who named it after his ship, the Erebus.



It stands at an elevation of about 3,794 meters (12,448 feet). It's a stratovolcano, characterized by a conical shape and layers of hardened lava, tephra, and volcanic ash.



Mount Erebus is known for its persistent lava lake, which is visible in the image. "The lake has been active since at least 1972 and is one of only a few long-lived lava lakes on Earth. It constantly churns and occasionally spews bombs of molten rock in Strombolian eruptions," said NASA.



"Geologists want to learn why an active lava lake has persisted here for so long. Recent research suggests one reason could be the magma’s low water content, which makes it less volatile as it approaches the surface."



Due to its unique features, Mount Erebus is an important site for scientific research. Researchers study its geology, unique gas emissions, and microbial life in its extreme environment.



However, the harsh Antarctic climate and its remote location make it a challenging environment for research. Additionally, its volcanic activity poses risks.



The image was captured on November 25,2023 by the OLI-2 (Operational Land Imager-2) on Landsat 9.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Mount Erebus breaks through the clouds

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

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 center 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."



The population of Seoul is over 9 million people, and the metropolitan area, which includes neighboring cities like Incheon and Gyeonggi Province, is one of the most populous in the world.



Seoul is a city where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge technology. It is known for its vibrant cultural scene, extensive history, and rapid economic development. The city's skyline is a blend of modern skyscrapers and traditional palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, showcasing its rich heritage.



Seoul is a hub for education, with several top-ranked universities and research institutes. The city also thrives in technology and innovation - home to global companies like Samsung and LG. Street markets like Myeongdong and Insadong offer a taste of local life and traditional crafts, while districts like Gangnam are famous for their upscale shopping and entertainment.



Seoul's green spaces, like Namsan Park and the Han River Park, provide a refuge from the urban hustle. The city's blend of history, culture, technology, and nature makes it a unique and dynamic metropolis, attracting millions of visitors each year.



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 <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> features a Copernicus Sentinel-2 photograph of the city of Bentiu in South Sudan.



"The country has always experienced a degree of seasonal flooding, which normally recedes in the dry season. However, four consecutive years of incessant flooding have submerged villages, farmlands and roads. In 2023, flood waters reached almost 2 meters in some places," said ESA.



"This false-color image, captured in January 2023, clearly shows the extent of the flooded areas around Bentiu. Information from the mission’s near-infrared channel was used to process this image so water bodies appear in dark blue or black. Sediment in the waters is bright blue, while the vibrant shades of red, mainly bordering rivers, denote vegetation."



According to ESA, the yellowish area in the center of the image is the city of Bentiu - standing out like an island surrounded by floods.&nbsp;



"From Bentiu, the Bahr el-Ghazal River meanders through the inundated floodplain in a northeasterly direction. It can be traced in black in the right of the image flowing through Lake No into the White Nile," said ESA.



"Fed by the White Nile, the large, swampy area running from the centre of the image to the bottom right is the Sudd. It is a network of channels, lakes and swamps and one of Africa’s largest floodplains, providing watering and feeding grounds for many endemic mammals and birds, as well as for large populations of migratory species."



Bentiu is known for its significance in the oil industry. It's the capital of Unity State, an area rich in oil fields, making it a crucial economic hub for South Sudan. However, this wealth in natural resources has also made Bentiu a focal point of conflict, particularly during the South Sudanese Civil War.



The city's history has been shaped by its strategic importance in the region. It has seen significant development in the oil sector, but this has been marred by political and ethnic conflicts. These conflicts have often resulted in severe humanitarian crises, affecting the local population with issues like displacement and shortages of basic necessities.



Despite its challenges, Bentiu is a key player in South Sudan's economy and its future development. The city's role in the oil industry cannot be overstated, and efforts are ongoing to stabilize the region and improve living conditions for its residents.



The city's demographics are diverse, reflecting the ethnic variety of South Sudan, but this diversity has also been a source of tension at times. Efforts towards peace and reconciliation in Bentiu and the wider Unity State are crucial for the long-term stability and prosperity of South Sudan.



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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The city of Bentiu in South Sudan

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Malaspina Glacier in southeastern Alaska. With a size of approximately 1,680 square miles, Malaspina is the world’s largest piedmont glacier. It covers an area larger than the state of Rhode Island.&nbsp;



"To human eyes, glacial ice typically looks white tinged with blue. But in this false-color satellite image, the rippled ice of Alaska’s Malaspina Glacier appears more fiery than frosty," said NASA.



"In this configuration, watery features are displayed in reds, oranges, and yellows; vegetation appears green; and rock is shown in shades of blue."



A piedmont glacier forms when steep valley glaciers spill into flat plains, where they spread out into bulbous, lobate shapes. Malaspina is fed by the Seward Ice Field and other smaller glaciers.&nbsp;



Despite its size, it's relatively thin for a glacier of its magnitude, averaging only about 600 meters (2,000 feet) in thickness.



The Malaspina Glacier is a classic example of a glacier experiencing significant retreat and thinning due to climate change. This has raised concerns about its long-term stability and the broader implications for sea-level rise.&nbsp;



The glacier's meltwater contributes to the Gulf of Alaska, and its changes are closely monitored by scientists.



Most of the Malaspina Glacier is located within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Its visually striking nature, including crevasses and moraines, makes it a subject of interest not only for scientists but also for photographers and nature enthusiasts.&nbsp;



The image was captured on October 27, 2023 by the OLI-2 (Operational Land Imager-2) on Landsat 9.&nbsp;



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Malaspina Glacier in southeastern Alaska 

Big Bend National Park&nbsp;is an American&nbsp;national park&nbsp;located in&nbsp;West Texas, bordering Mexico. The park has national significance as the largest protected area of&nbsp;Chihuahuan Desert&nbsp;topography&nbsp;and&nbsp;ecology&nbsp;in the United States, and was named after a&nbsp;large bend&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Rio Grande/Río Bravo. &nbsp;The park protects more than 1,200 species of plants, more than 450 species of birds, 56 species of reptiles, and 75 species of mammals. Additional park activities include scenic drives, programs led by Big Bend park rangers, and stargazing.



There are&nbsp;four&nbsp;campgrounds in Big Bend National Park. The National Park Service (NPS) operates three developed frontcountry campgrounds that provide drinking water and restroom facilities. In addition, a full hookup RV camping area is operated by the park concessioner, Forever Resorts. Reservations are required for Big Bend National Park Campgrounds. Reservations can be made by visiting&nbsp;recreation.gov. For visitors with rugged vehicles, or the willingness to leave the road behind and backpack into the wild, Big Bend provides options for&nbsp;backcountry camping. A backcountry permit is required for all backcountry camping and river trips.

Big Bend National Park, Texas

A staggering event on October 4-5 in Chicago led to the demise of nearly 1,000 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/window-collisions-are-a-leading-cause-of-bird-mortality/">birds</a>, as they crashed into a brightly lit glass structure. While such extensive bird fatalities are uncommon, artificial light remains a significant and escalating hazard to migratory birds.



In a comprehensive study published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-43046-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>, researchers employed weather radar data to chart bird stopover densities across the U.S. The study revealed that artificial light is a prime factor influencing where birds land during migration. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds-face-multiple-challenges-nbsp">Birds face multiple challenges&nbsp;</h2>



Kyle Horton, an assistant professor at <a href="https://www.colostate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colorado State University</a>’s Department of Fish, Wildlife and Conservation Biology and the study’s lead author, explained that city lights can entice birds into hazardous urban environments.



The challenges for migrating birds in urban areas are manifold, including dangerous building collisions, habitat loss, limited food availability, and threats from humans and predators like cats. Urban parks offer some respite, but they come with their own set of challenges, such as competition for scarce resources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-migration-stopover-hotspots">Migration stopover hotspots</h2>



Migration is fraught with peril for birds, involving extensive travel that can deplete up to half of their body mass. “These stopover locations are the fueling stations,” Horton said. “If they don’t have a good spot to rebuild energy supplies, migration can’t happen."



This study marks the first time migration stopover hotspots across the contiguous United States have been mapped on such a large scale. Understanding these patterns can aid in developing conservation strategies.



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



“Cities pose multiple risks to migrating birds,” explained co-author and <a href="https://msu.edu/">Michigan State University</a> Professor Geoff Henebry. “They also offer resources for the tired birds to rest and refuel."&nbsp;



"Our study is notable in that it combines big data – and a lot of processing – from the weather surveillance radar network with big data from multiple spaceborne sensors to address key questions regarding the influence of urban areas on bird migration.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-dilemma-nbsp">Conservation dilemma&nbsp;</h2>



However, the attraction of birds to cities raises a conservation dilemma: should urban areas be preserved as vital stopover sites, or should efforts be concentrated on reducing urban lighting? Horton is collaborating with various organizations to tackle both issues, but the multifaceted nature of urban lighting presents complexities.



Light pollution not only affects birds but also disrupts human circadian rhythms, contributing to several health issues. “We don’t often think about light as a pollutant, but it checks all the boxes of what pollution is,” Horton said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-migration-forecasts-nbsp">Migration forecasts&nbsp;</h2>



Initiatives like <a href="https://birdcast.info/">BirdCast</a> offer migration forecasts and real-time maps, enabling individuals and cities to minimize artificial light on critical migration nights. Simple measures, such as retrofitting windows with decals and adjusting light brightness and color, can significantly reduce bird collisions.



The tragic incident at Chicago’s McCormick Place Convention Center is a stark reminder of the dangers of light pollution. Public awareness and simple actions, like turning off unnecessary lights, can have an immediate and beneficial impact on bird safety.&nbsp;



“If we turned off all lights tonight, there would be no birds colliding because of lights tonight,” Horton concluded.



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Artificial light is luring birds to their death

A staggering event on October 4-5 in Chicago led to...

Polar,Bear,On,The,Ice,Sniffing,In,The,Air

Polar bears, the majestic icons of the Arctic, are elusive and vulnerable, making their conservation a challenging task. However, a breakthrough in DNA analysis using skin cells shed in their footprints offers new hope for monitoring these endangered species.



This innovative method, developed by a team of international scientists, promises a less invasive and more efficient way to gather essential data on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-confirms-direct-link-between-polar-bear-survival-and-harmful-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polar bear populations</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-polar-bears-with-footprint-dna">Monitoring polar bears with footprint DNA</h2>



Dr. Melanie Lancaster of the World Wide Fund for Nature <a href="https://www.arcticwwf.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Arctic Programme</a> is the senior author of the study. “It is particularly challenging, expensive, and time-consuming to find polar bears in the Arctic, let alone count them and understand how they are coping with climate change,” said Lancaster.



The difficulties in locating and counting these bears, combined with the need to understand their response to climate change, has left a gap in critical data regarding their population size and connectivity.



Inspired by forensic techniques suited for tiny, degraded DNA samples, the scientists developed a method that avoids the physical capture of bears. This method avoids an often stressful and dangerous situation for both the animals and humans. Elisabeth Kruger of the <a href="https://www.worldwildlife.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Wildlife Fund</a>, another author of the article, highlights the significance of this method. 



“Many Inuit express concern about invasive research methods,” said Kruger. “People are concerned about the welfare of the individual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-unravel-the-secrets-of-polar-bear-fur/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polar bear</a> and the health and safety of people who may harvest the bear later. This is one of the reasons we are so excited about new methods like this - the person collecting the sample never needs to even see or be seen by the polar bear.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-edna-from-animal-tracks">eDNA from animal tracks</h2>



A unique aspect of this research involves the use of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/environmental-dna-can-help-monitor-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental DNA</a> (eDNA) found in the snow track footprints of polar bears. Dr. Micaela Hellström of <a href="https://www.mixresearch.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIX Research Sweden AB</a>, the lead author of the study, explains that the tracks contain fresh cells with intact DNA.



“The tracks usually contain fresh cells, and the DNA is intact because of the cold ‘storage’ temperature. DNA that has passed the gut is much more degraded and therefore more challenging to work on,” said Hellström.



The team collected snow from individual tracks of Alaskan <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radar-imaging-will-help-protect-polar-bears-from-human-disturbances/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polar bears</a> and Swedish Eurasian lynxes, both in the wild and captivity, as well as from a captive snow leopard. Confirming the accuracy of the genotypes derived from this snow track DNA, additional materials like hair, saliva, and mucus were also sampled. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-footprint-dna-analysis-results">Footprint DNA analysis results</h2>



The researchers sampled 24 wild polar bear tracks and 44 wild <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lynx-habitat-selection-is-heavily-influenced-by-human-disturbance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lynx</a> tracks. They melted and filtered the snow from these tracks to collect environmental DNA, which they then analyzed using microsatellite analysis. 



Despite the low concentrations of DNA in the tracks collected from the wild, they successfully retrieved nuclear DNA from 87.5% of the wild <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-polar-bears-get-traction-on-ice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polar bear</a> tracks and 59.1% of the wild <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lynx-population-in-france-is-on-the-brink-of-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lynx</a> tracks. They managed to genotype 13 of the wild polar bear samples, identifying 12 different individuals.



When focusing on the lynx tracks sampled by trained personnel, the genotyping success rate improved significantly. The scientists retrieved nuclear DNA from 76% of the samples collected by these trained individuals, and they successfully genotyped 24% of these samples.



This non-invasive sampling technique, despite a lower success rate compared to traditional methods, offers considerable advantages. It not only reduces the stress and danger associated with physical capture but also allows for larger sample sizes due to its ease of collection. 



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



The potential of this technique to inform conservation strategies, understand animal populations and behaviors, and manage human-animal conflicts is immense.



Dr. Lancaster expresses hope that this method will be adopted widely by the polar bear research community, involving hunters, volunteers, and Indigenous communities. She says, “We hope this method will be taken up by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-bears-threatened-by-toxic-chemicals-in-melting-sea-ice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polar bear</a> research community, with the involvement of hunters, volunteers, and Indigenous communities, as a new way to collect information on polar bears.”



The team also anticipates the expansion of this technique to other animals living in snowy environments, having already demonstrated its effectiveness with lynx and snow leopards.



In summary, this groundbreaking research in DNA analysis using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-vacuumed-animal-dna-from-a-forest-and-the-results-are-amazing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental DNA</a> from snow tracks and footprints opens a new chapter in wildlife conservation. It promises a more humane, efficient, and inclusive approach to studying and protecting one of the Arctic's most iconic inhabitants, the polar bear, and potentially other species in similar environments.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fcosc.2023.1250996/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Conservation Science</a>.



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Footprint DNA helps scientists monitor elusive animals like polar bears

Polar bears, the majestic icons of the Arctic, are elusive...

The <a href="https://www.un.org/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Nations</a> (UN) has released a critical report which signals an "unprecedented emergency on a planetary scale" due to human-induced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-made-droughts-20-times-more-likely/">droughts</a>. 



The Global Drought Snapshot, launched at <a href="https://www.cop28.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COP28</a> climate talks in the UAE, is a comprehensive analysis of recent drought data over the past two years, emphasizing the escalating crisis of drought worldwide.



The analysis was led by the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), established at the 1992 Earth Summit, along with the UNFCCC and UN CBD.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-silent-devastation-nbsp">Silent devastation&nbsp;</h2>



“Unlike other disasters that attract media attention, droughts happen silently, often going unnoticed and failing to provoke an immediate public and political response," said UNCCD Executive Secretary Ibrahim Thiaw.



"This silent devastation perpetuates a cycle of neglect, leaving affected populations to bear the burden in isolation."&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarming-trends">Alarming trends</h2>



In China, 15–20 percent of the population faces more frequent moderate-to-severe droughts, with drought intensity expected to increase by 80 percent by 2100.



The Horn of Africa has 23 million people severely food insecure, attributed to drought.



The United States experienced severe drought across five percent of its contiguous states in May 2023. The La Plata basin in Brazil–Argentina faced its worst drought in 78 years in 2022, impacting global crop markets.



Europe was hit by its worst drought in 500 years in 2022, affecting an area almost four times the average since 2000.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-agriculture-and-forests">Agriculture and forests</h2>



The report also touches on the severe impact of drought on agriculture and forests, including 70 percent damage to cereal crops in the Mediterranean from 2016–2018.



Consecutive rainfall season failures in the Horn of Africa caused the region’s worst drought in 40 years (with Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia particularly hard hit), contributing to reduced agricultural productivity, food insecurity and high food prices.



There have also been significant losses in grazing land and an expected increase in forest losses in various regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-conditions">Water conditions</h2>



California's Central Valley is facing accelerated groundwater decline and water-quality degradation.



The Rhine and Yangtze rivers experienced drastic reductions in water levels, impacting shipping and affecting millions.&nbsp;



In southern China, five million people have been affected by record-low water levels in the Yangtze River due to drought and prolonged heat.



On the Mississippi River, a backlog of barges in late 2022 due to low water levels caused $20 billion in supply chain disruptions and other economic damage.&nbsp;&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-dimensions-nbsp">Social dimensions&nbsp;</h2>



The social dimensions are equally concerning, with 85 percent of people affected by droughts living in low- or middle-income countries.



Furthermore, the likelihood of being killed by floods, droughts and storms is 15 times greater in the highly vulnerable regions.&nbsp;



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



The Global Drought Snapshot concludes with a call to action, urging for binding global agreements and proactive measures to mitigate drought impacts.&nbsp;



The report emphasizes the need for nature-based solutions to offset CO2 emissions and agricultural practices that adopt water-efficient technologies.



The experts also stress the importance of respecting the planet's boundaries and ensuring the sustainability of natural hydrological cycles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wake-up-call-nbsp">Wake-up call&nbsp;</h2>



“The Global Drought Snapshot report speaks volumes about the urgency of this crisis and building global resilience to it," said Thiaw.



"With the frequency and severity of drought events increasing, as reservoir levels dwindle and crop yields decline, as we continue to lose biological diversity and famines spread, transformational change is needed.”&nbsp;



“We hope this publication serves as a wake-up call.”



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Global drought crisis: UN warns of unprecedented emergency

The United Nations (UN) has released a critical report which...

The melting of glaciers, rising sea levels, and extreme heat waves are stark reminders of the ongoing climate crisis. Despite the scientific community's consensus on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indisputable-evidence-of-human-caused-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human responsibility</a> for these changes, as reaffirmed by the sixth report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (<a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IPCC</a>), a significant portion of the population remains skeptical, fueled by disinformation campaigns orchestrated by certain vested interests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-combating-climate-change-disinformation">Combating climate change disinformation</h2>



The University of Geneva (<a href="https://www.unige.ch/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNIGE</a>) has taken a novel approach to address this issue by developing and testing six psychological interventions.



A team led by Tobia Spampatti, a PhD Student and Teaching and Research Assistant in the Consumer Decision and Sustainable Behavior Lab (<a href="https://www.cdsb.net/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CDSB Lab</a>), has conducted extensive research involving nearly 7,000 participants across twelve countries. 



The study underscores the persuasive nature of disinformation and the urgent need to counteract it. According to Spampatti, certain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exxons-climate-predictions-were-remarkably-accurate-but-ignored/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">companies</a> and lobbies spreading disinformation over the last 50 years can explain this phenomenon. 



‘‘For instance, these messages can take the form of an unfounded questioning of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenhouse-gas-emissions-reach-another-all-time-high/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scientific consensus</a> or an overestimation of the socio-financial burden of climate policies,’’ says Spampatti. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychological-factors-at-play">Psychological factors at play</h2>



Spampatti and his colleagues have developed a theoretical framework based on the psychology of climate change disinformation. This framework considers various factors, including the source, content, recipients, and psychological aspects influencing the processing of information. 



‘‘As individuals, we do not process <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-climate-change-and-biodiversity-loss-are-one-indivisible-global-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scientific messages</a> as neutral receivers of information, but by weighing them up against our prior beliefs, desired outcomes, emotional ties and socio-cultural and ideological backgrounds. Depending on the configuration of these psychological factors, anti-scientific beliefs can be amplified and become resistant to correction,’’ explains Spampatti.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preventing-climate-change-disinformation">Preventing climate change disinformation</h2>



Based on their findings, the researchers developed six psychological intervention strategies to prevent climate disinformation from influencing people's climate-related beliefs and actions. They tested these strategies on 6,816 participants across twelve countries. 



Each strategy focused on a specific theme: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-warning-systems-are-increasingly-accurate-in-predicting-climate-extremes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scientific consensus</a>, trust in climate scientists, transparent communication, moralizing climate action, accuracy, and positive emotions towards climate action. 



The team divided the participants into eight groups. Six groups each received one of the strategies, one group received disinformation without any preventive measures, and one served as a control group.



For example, the researchers gave the "trust in climate scientists" group verified information to establish the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-become-a-human-rights-issue/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">credibility of IPCC scientists</a>. Similarly, they presented the "transparent communication" group with information highlighting both the advantages and disadvantages of climate mitigation actions. 



Following this, the team exposed each group to twenty instances of false or biased information, including ten related to climate science and ten to climate policy. The UNIGE scientists then assessed the impact of these interventions by gauging the participants' attitudes towards climate mitigation actions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-results-show-great-challenges-ahead">Results show great challenges ahead</h2>



<a href="https://www.unige.ch/fapse/decisionlab/people/tobias-brosch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tobias Brosch</a> is an associate Professor at the CDSB Lab and the final author of the study. He notes the alarming persuasiveness of disinformation. 



"We found that the protective effect of our strategies is small and disappears after the second exposure to disinformation," says Brosch. "Climate disinformation used in this study has a negative influence on people’s belief in climate change and their sustainable behavior.’’



According to the study, climate change disinformation persuades extremely effectively, apparently more than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/media-coverage-of-climate-change-fails-to-inspire-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scientific information</a> does. Only the 'accuracy' group, whom the researchers asked to think deeply about the accuracy of online information, demonstrated a slight advantage.



Tobia Spampatti concludes, "Research in this field is still in its infancy. We are going to continue our work and look for more effective forms of intervention." 



In summary, the urgency to combat climate change disinformation is paramount, as it hinders the implementation of crucial climate change mitigation measures. This research from UNIGE represents a crucial step in understanding and addressing the complex issue of climate change disinformation.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-023-01736-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Human Behavior</a>.



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Why disinformation is a persistent scourge in the battle against climate change

The melting of glaciers, rising sea levels, and extreme heat...

In late 2017, the Thomas Fire in Santa Barbara County became one of the most destructive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canadian-wildfires-of-2023-were-a-global-environmental-setback/">wildfires</a> in California's history. The fire led to the unprecedented closure of classes at <a href="https://www.ucsb.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Santa Barbara</a> and widespread use of N95 masks. 



This catastrophic event, however, presented a unique opportunity for scientists at the university. Huge amounts of wildfire ash had settled into the oceans, and the experts wanted to investigate what effect it might have on marine life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significant-discovery-nbsp">Significant discovery&nbsp;</h2>



The team embarked on a mission to understand the effects of wildfire ash on ocean ecosystems - a subject that has been relatively unexplored compared to freshwater systems.



The researchers made a significant discovery: wildfire ash can actually fertilize marine ecosystems. This is in stark contrast to its toxic effects in freshwater environments.&nbsp;



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



The team, led by Tanika Ladd, had to rapidly adapt their pre-planned expedition. "With a research cruise already on the calendar, the team jumped on the opportunity to investigate. “We planned this out in just a few weeks,” said Ladd.



“The fire broke out Dec. 4; our cruise was scheduled to go out on Dec. 17, and this clearly wasn’t in our plans for all of the cruise prep before the fire started.” The group quickly pivoted the entire cruise itinerary. Senior scientists sent off a flurry of grant applications, and the team revised the schedule a couple weeks before setting sail."



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



Study co-author Eleanor Arrington collected ash samples from car windshields across Santa Barbara, creating a saltwater solution with the ash and then filtering out solid particles.&nbsp;



This solution was added to seawater cultures, which were incubated on deck of the research vessel. 



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



The team's measurements indicated a significant increase in particulate organic carbon in samples with added ash leachate, suggesting enhanced plankton growth and increased carbon drawdown from the atmosphere through photosynthesis.



Further analysis showed that the ash was enriching the seawater with key nutrients like nitrate, nitrite, ammonium, and silicic acid, which are essential for the growth of phytoplankton such as diatoms.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potentially-toxic-metals">Potentially toxic metals</h2>



The ash also introduced metals like copper and iron to the seawater. While essential in small quantities, these metals can be toxic at higher concentrations in freshwater ecosystems.&nbsp;



However, the vastness of the ocean dilutes these elements, reducing their potential harm.



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



This study sheds light on the complex interactions between terrestrial and marine ecosystems, particularly in the context of increasing wildfires.&nbsp;



The nutrients carried by wildfire ash into the ocean may boost primary production in coastal areas, especially in nutrient-limited regions like the Santa Barbara Channel.&nbsp;



"Coastal ecosystems may have increased primary production during these wildfires, but we need to know what this actually means on a global scale," said Ladd.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2023.1817" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a>.



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Wildfire ash fertilizes the ocean and boosts marine life

In late 2017, the Thomas Fire in Santa Barbara County...

The year 2023 has been a hallmark of climatic extremes, with scorching <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-may-have-an-unknown-accomplice-driving-record-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heatwaves</a> during the summer and autumn raising alarm bells worldwide. As we approach winter, the looming question is whether we are on the brink of experiencing the warmest winter ever recorded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prelude-to-an-unprecedented-warm-winter">Prelude to an unprecedented warm winter</h2>



The period from June to October 2023 saw the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insanely-record-breaking-heat-has-even-shocked-climate-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global average temperature</a> surpassing the 1991-2020 average by a staggering 0.57℃. 



Notably, August and September broke all <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blistering-heat-of-july-2023-broke-records-across-the-globe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">historical records</a>, exceeding average temperatures by 0.62℃ and 0.69℃, respectively. These figures eclipsed the previous records set in 2016, signifying a consistent trend in global warming.



The remarkable heat experienced in 2023 can be partially attributed to the reemergence of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellite-detects-early-warning-signs-of-an-el-nino-event/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">El Niño</a> phenomenon, which returned after a seven-year hiatus. This natural event, coupled with ongoing global warming, has been a key driver in the series of temperature records shattered this year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-projecting-2023-24-winter-temperatures">Projecting 2023/24 winter temperatures</h2>



In an attempt to forecast the upcoming winter trends for 2023/24, the Short-Term Climate Prediction Team at the <a href="http://english.iap.cas.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Atmospheric Physics</a>, Chinese Academy of Sciences, utilized advanced climate prediction systems to analyze <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2023-2024_winter-weather-prediction_Credit-Zhang_1medium.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global climate anomalies</a>. 



Their research anticipates the maturation of a moderate to strong <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-temperatures-hit-a-record-high-this-week-with-the-worst-heat-still-to-come/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eastern Pacific El Niño</a>, significantly influencing the winter climates of East Asia and North America.



The study underscores the combined impact of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forecasters-warn-of-weather-chaos-as-el-nino-arrives-early/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">El Niño</a> event and the long-term global warming trend. It predicts that regions in the mid-low latitudes of Eurasia and most parts of the Americas are likely to experience an exceptionally warm winter, with a 95% probability of setting new historical temperature records. 



In China, surface temperatures might surpass double the typical temperatures, potentially marking the highest winter temperature record since 1991.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-external-forcings">The role of external forcings</h2>



Understanding climate systems involves not only internal variability but also external forcings. The consecutive La Niña occurrences from 2020 to 2022, which momentarily delayed global warming, underscore the significance of such external factors. For instance, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/australian-bushfires-triggered-rare-multi-year-la-nina/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2019 Australian wildfires</a> have been linked to triggering multi-year La Niñas.



The mechanism behind this involves <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exploring-the-climate-warming-effects-of-wildfire-soot/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfire aerosols</a> creating low clouds over the Southern Ocean, leading to reduced sea surface temperatures and favoring La Niña occurrences. 



Similarly, research by <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s00376-023-3254-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zhou &amp; Liu (2023)</a> from <a href="https://www.sysu.edu.cn/sysuen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sun Yat-sen University</a> indicates that past volcanic eruptions in the Southern Hemisphere frequently led to multi-year La Niña events, confirming the influence of Southern Ocean cooling on global climate patterns.



In summary, as we brace for the 2023/24 winter, the culmination of these climatic factors paints a picture of a potentially historic warm winter. This phenomenon serves as a stark reminder of the intricate interplay between natural events and human-induced climate change, urging continued research and proactive measures to address the escalating climate crisis.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00376-023-3330-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Advances in Atmospheric Sciences</a>.



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Prediction: This winter will be the warmest in recorded history

The year 2023 has been a hallmark of climatic extremes,...

Exoplanet,Planet,Lit,By,An,Alien,Sun,(3d,Illustration,,Elements

The discovery of a planet that is far too massive for its sun is challenging our existing theories on solar system formation, according to researchers at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a>.



The experts discovered the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-earth-like-planet-may-be-hiding-just-beyond-neptune/">planet</a>, which is over 13 times heavier than Earth, circling an "ultracool" star that is notably nine times less massive than the sun.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unprecedented-discovery-nbsp">Unprecedented discovery&nbsp;</h2>



The remarkable finding introduces the heaviest known planet in a close orbit around one of the universe's smallest and coldest stars, an ultracool <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronomers-have-found-a-planet-that-could-support-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dwarf star</a>. This marks the first instance of a massive planet orbiting a star of such low mass.



“This discovery really drives home the point of just how little we know about the universe,” said study co-author Suvrath Mahadevan. “We wouldn’t expect a planet this heavy around such a low-mass star to exist.”



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-planet-formation-nbsp">Rethinking planet formation&nbsp;</h2>



Mahadevan elaborated on the conventional understanding of stars and planets' formation, highlighting the role of remaining gas and dust after a star's formation in developing planets.&nbsp;



“The planet-forming disk around the low-mass star LHS 3154 is not expected to have enough solid mass to make this planet,” said Mahadevan. “But it’s out there, so now we need to reexamine our understanding of how planets and stars form.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitable-zone-planet-finder">Habitable Zone Planet Finder</h2>



The detection of LHS 3154b was made possible by the Habitable Zone Planet Finder (<a href="https://hpf.psu.edu/what-is-hpf/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HPF</a>), an astronomical spectrograph constructed at Penn State by a team led by Mahadevan. 



This instrument is particularly adept at identifying planets around ultracool stars, where conditions might be favorable for liquid water, a crucial ingredient for life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lhs-3154-and-ultracool-stars">LHS 3154 and ultracool stars</h2>



“Think about it like the star is a campfire. The more the fire cools down, the closer you’ll need to get to that fire to stay warm,” said Mahadevan.&nbsp;



“The same is true for planets. If the star is colder, then a planet will need to be closer to that star if it is going to be warm enough to contain liquid water. If a planet has a close enough orbit to its ultracool star, we can detect it by seeing a very subtle change in the color of the star’s spectra or light as it is tugged on by an orbiting planet.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hobby-eberly-telescope">Hobby-Eberly Telescope</h2>



The HPF, located at the <a href="https://mcdonaldobservatory.org/research/telescopes/HET" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hobby-Eberly Telescope</a> at the McDonald Observatory in Texas, has been instrumental in this discovery, as noted by Guðmundur Stefánsson, NASA Sagan Fellow in Astrophysics at <a href="https://www.princeton.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Princeton University</a> and lead author of the paper. 



“Making the discovery with HPF was extra special, as it is a new instrument that we designed, developed and built from the ground-up for the purpose of looking at the uncharted planet population around the lowest mass stars,” said Stefánsson.&nbsp;



“Now we are reaping the rewards, learning new and unexpected aspects of this exciting population of planets orbiting some of the most nearby stars.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exceeding-expectations-nbsp">Exceeding expectations&nbsp;</h2>



The instrument has already yielded critical information in the discovery and confirmation of new planets, Stefánsson explained, but the discovery of the massive planet LHS 3154b exceeded all expectations.



“Based on current survey work with the HPF and other instruments, an object like the one we discovered is likely extremely rare, so detecting it has been really exciting,” said study co-author Megan Delamer, astronomy graduate student at Penn State. “Our current theories of planet formation have trouble accounting for what we’re seeing."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insights-on-lhs-3154">New insights on LHS 3154</h2>



The study suggests that the dust-mass and dust-to-gas ratio in the disks surrounding young stars like LHS 3154 would have to be significantly higher than previously observed to account for the formation of such a massive planet.



“What we have discovered provides an extreme test case for all existing planet formation theories,” Mahadevan said. “This is exactly what we built HPF to do, to discover how the most common stars in our galaxy form planets — and to find those planets.”



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



As mentioned above, ultracool dwarf stars are a fascinating and important category of stellar objects in the universe. They are characterized by their relatively low temperatures and small sizes. This detailed report will explore the characteristics, discovery, importance, and challenges related to ultracool dwarf stars.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-characteristics-of-ultracool-dwarf-stars">Characteristics of ultracool dwarf stars</h3>



Temperature and Size: Ultracool dwarfs are among the coolest stars, with surface temperatures below approximately 2,700 Kelvin. This temperature range is significantly lower than that of more common stars like the Sun. In terms of size, they are typically smaller than our Sun, often not much larger than the planet Jupiter.



Spectral Classification: These stars are classified at the end of the spectral classification system, which includes L, T, and Y dwarfs. Each class has distinct spectral features: L dwarfs show strong metal hydride absorption and faint or absent titanium oxide, T dwarfs exhibit methane features in their spectra, and Y dwarfs, the coolest of the group, have atmospheres similar to gas giants with water-vapor and ammonia-based clouds.



Luminosity: Ultracool dwarfs are very dim in visible light but are more luminous in the infrared spectrum. This low luminosity makes them challenging to detect with traditional optical telescopes.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovery-and-observation">Discovery and observation</h3>



Detection Methods: Ultracool dwarfs are primarily discovered using infrared surveys, as they emit most of their energy in the infrared range. Space telescopes like the Hubble Space Telescope and the Spitzer Space Telescope have been instrumental in their discovery.



Recent Discoveries: Over the past few decades, numerous ultracool dwarfs have been identified,. Notably, the nearest star system to the Sun, Proxima Centauri, includes an ultracool dwarf. Also, LHS 3154, which we discussed previously in this article, is also an ultracool dwarf star.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-in-astronomy">Importance in astronomy</h3>



Study of Brown Dwarfs and Planetary Mass Objects: Ultracool dwarfs bridge the gap between the hottest planets and the coolest stars. Studying them helps astronomers understand the transition from a star-like object to a planet-like one.



Search for Exoplanets: These stars are excellent targets for the search for exoplanets, especially Earth-sized planets, due to their small size and lower luminosity which makes it easier to detect planets orbiting them.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-future-research">Challenges and future research</h3>



Detection Challenges: Due to their faintness in visible light, ultracool dwarfs are difficult to observe. Advancements in infrared astronomy are crucial for their study.



Atmospheric Studies: Understanding the atmospheres of these stars, which can include complex chemistry and cloud formation, is a key area of ongoing research.



Formation and Evolution: There is ongoing research into how ultracool dwarfs form and evolve over time. This research contributes to the broader understanding of stellar evolution.



In summary, ultracool dwarf stars like LHS 3154, with their unique properties and the challenges they present, continue to be a subject of intense study in astronomy. They offer insights into the complex processes of star and planet formation and are key to our understanding of the diverse nature of celestial objects in our universe.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.abo0233" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Massive habitable planet discovered that is too big for its star, baffling astronomers

The discovery of a planet that is far too massive...

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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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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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

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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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

[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Carl...

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.