Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features an astronaut photograph of the Makran coast along the Arabian Sea.



“Several capes and bays appear along the Makran coast - a strip of land along the Gulf of Oman in southeastern Iran and southwestern Pakistan. Nicknamed ‘hammerhead’ capes because of their elongated forms and narrow necks, the headlands are shaped by the region’s plate tectonics, primarily uplift,” said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



“The long curves of the bays’ shorelines show accumulations of sandy sediment. This buildup appears as numerous semi-parallel lines that reveal the locations of past shorelines. These features, known as beach ridges, appear particularly well developed on the north shore of Chabahar Bay at the top of the image.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bays-of-the-makran-coast">Bays of the Makran coast</h2>



NASA noted that scientists have investigated the vulnerability of the bays to the effects of climate change and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-level-rise-will-cost-coastal-cities-over-1-trillion-in-damages/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea level rise</a>.



“The research was conducted in part because the Makran coast experiences high rates of tectonic uplift. The researchers concluded that the harder rocks of the headlands were less vulnerable to wave erosion than the more erodible rocks where the neighboring bays formed. These bays are expected to change shape as waves and currents move sediment.," said NASA.



“The bays’ coastlines might move farther inland as sea level rises and shorelines erode. Or, the coastlines may advance seaward as coastal sediment accumulates over time.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-on-the-coast">Wildlife on the coast </h2>



The Makran coast is known for its rugged terrain, dramatic cliffs, and sandy beaches. The coastal waters support vibrant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sea-mining-has-deadly-consequences-for-marine-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine life</a>. The beaches serve as nesting grounds for green and olive ridley turtles, highlighting their ecological significance.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-could-help-save-mangrove-forests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mangrove</a> forests are prevalent around estuaries and river deltas, offering critical habitats for numerous fish species and birds.



The region is a hotspot for bird watching, including migratory and resident birds like herons, egrets, and flamingos.



Despite the arid, desert-like inland areas, resilient species such as the Arabian Oryx and various reptiles thrive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-concerns-nbsp">Environmental concerns&nbsp;</h2>



The Makran Coast faces several environmental concerns. For example, the arid climate and overuse of land resources have led to issues like desertification.



Habitat destruction and pollution threaten the region's diverse marine life, including endangered species. Unsustainable fishing practices deplete fish stocks and disrupt the marine food chain.



Rising sea levels and increased frequency of extreme weather events impact coastal communities and ecosystems. Mangrove forests on the Makran coast are extremely vulnerable to sea level rise. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-history-of-makran-coast">History of Makran coast</h2>



The Makran region has been historically significant since ancient times. It was part of the ancient Persian Empire and has been mentioned in Greek and Roman texts.



Alexander the Great passed through Makran during his return from India, facing significant hardships due to the harsh environment.



The Makran Coast is situated on major trade routes connecting the Middle East, South Asia, and Central Asia. It was a key area along the ancient Silk Road and hosted important ports that facilitated trade between these regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-hazards">Natural hazards</h2>



The Makran region is seismically active, and there is a potential risk of tsunamis and earthquakes due to the tectonic activity in the area. 



The hilly terrain along parts of the Makran coast makes the region susceptible to landslides, particularly following heavy rains or seismic activity.



The climate is harsh, arid, and hot, with minimal rainfall and high temperatures, especially in the summer.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Makran coast of southeastern Iran

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features smoke streaming over the Atlantic Ocean from a deadly fire outbreak in Portugal. The Copernicus Sentinel-3 image was captured on September 17, 2024.



“Dozens of wildfires are reported throughout the country, mainly in the north. The fires forced the closure of two railway lines and several motorways, including part of the main road between Lisbon and Porto,” said <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-firefighters-stretched-to-the-limit">Firefighters stretched to the limit</h2>



According to a report from NPR, more than 100 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-season-of-2023-redefined-what-is-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a> stretched thousands of firefighters to the limit in northern Portugal on Wednesday, as Prime Minister Luís Montenegro declared a state of calamity.



"We are well aware that these difficult hours are not over yet," Montenegro told the nation. "We have to continue to give everything we have and ask for help from our partners and friends so that we can reinforce the protection of our people and property."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fire-outbreak-in-northern-and-central-portugal-nbsp">Fire outbreak in northern and central Portugal&nbsp;</h2>



The fires have been fueled by dry conditions, strong winds, and high temperatures. The northern and central regions of Portugal, particularly in areas like Aveiro and Albergaria-a-Velha, have been hit hardest by the fire outbreak.&nbsp;



Over 5,000 firefighters were deployed to combat the flames, but the blazes have still managed to consume over 62,000 hectares of land, resulting in the deaths of at least seven people, including firefighters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-widespread-fire-damage-and-evacuations">Widespread fire damage and evacuations</h2>



Residents were forced to evacuate, with many homes and industrial areas destroyed. Roads were also closed due to the encroaching flames and thick <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-is-an-underestimated-threat-to-public-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smoke</a>, severely affecting transportation.



NPR said that while authorities have yet to release figures for property damage or the number of evacuees, Portuguese state broadcaster RTP has shown charred houses in rural villages and local residents trying to battle flames with buckets of water, hoses, and even large tree branches.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-responding-to-the-portugal-fires">Responding to the Portugal fires</h2>



The situation became so severe that Portugal sought assistance from the European Union. Greece, Spain, and France contributed firefighting aircraft, while the European Commission activated its RescEU program to provide additional support.&nbsp;



“The Copernicus Emergency Management Service was activated to help authorities respond to the emergency,” said ESA.



“Using satellite data, the service provides information for emergency response for different types of disasters, including meteorological and geophysical hazards, deliberate and accidental disasters, humanitarian disasters, and for prevention, preparedness, response and recovery activities.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-climate-breakdown">A climate breakdown</h2>



The situation remains critical, although there are signs of improvement as the weather is expected to turn, which could help contain the fires.&nbsp;



The dry conditions which fueled the wildfire outbreak in Portugal coincided with deadly flooding in central Europe. The European Union said that the juxtaposed extreme weather events are proof of a “climate breakdown.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dry-conditions-and-fire-outbreaks-nbsp">Dry conditions and fire outbreaks&nbsp;</h2>



Hot, dry conditions are a key factor in the outbreak and spread of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/twenty-years-of-air-quality-improvement-erased-by-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a>. These conditions create a highly flammable environment where vegetation, like grasses, shrubs, and trees, becomes dry and can easily ignite.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dry-vegetation">Dry vegetation</h3>



When the weather is dry for extended periods, vegetation loses its moisture content and becomes more combustible. Even a small spark can set off a fire in such conditions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-temperatures-nbsp">High temperatures&nbsp;</h3>



Heat intensifies the drying of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increased-co2-is-making-wildfires-more-severe-and-frequent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a> and raises the temperature of the fuel (plants, leaves, etc.), making it easier for it to catch fire and spread. High temperatures also reduce soil moisture, drying out more of the surrounding area.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wind-fans-the-flames">Wind fans the flames </h3>



In dry, hot conditions, winds can carry embers to new locations, causing fires to spread rapidly. Wind also fans the flames, intensifying the heat and increasing the speed of the fire's movement.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-low-humidity">Low humidity</h3>



Dry air, often measured by low humidity levels, exacerbates fire risk. When humidity is low, moisture is drawn out of plants and soil more quickly, further drying the landscape.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lightning-and-human-activity">Lightning and human activity</h3>



In hot, dry conditions, natural causes like lightning can ignite wildfires. However, human activities (campfires, discarded cigarettes, power lines) also play a significant role, particularly in areas that are primed for fire due to these weather patterns.



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



In areas prone to drought, wildfires can be particularly destructive, and as climate change intensifies, hotter and drier weather is becoming more common, increasing wildfire risks globally.



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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More than 100 fires are burning in Portugal

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

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features an astronaut photograph of Fayzabad, a culturally diverse city in the Kokcha River valley of northern Afghanistan. The photo was captured as the International Space Station passed over central Asia.



Fayzabad is the capital of the Badakhshan Province. It is located in a mountainous part of northeastern Afghanistan at an elevation of about 4,000 feet.



“The city is situated along the Kokcha River, which flows northward within a deep river valley surrounded by the Hindu Kush Mountains and eventually discharges into the Amu Darya River,” noted NASA.



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



According to <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, the climate of Fayzabad varies from cold semi-arid to Mediterranean-influenced warm-summer humid continental.



The summer months are warm, with average high temperatures ranging from 77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit.&nbsp;



The winter months are cold, with average low temperatures often dropping below freezing - sometimes reaching as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit.&nbsp;



The region receives moderate precipitation, mostly during the spring and winter. Snowfall is common in winter, adding to the mountainous region's picturesque landscape.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fayzabad-culture">Fayzabad culture</h2>



Historically, Fayzabad has been a center of learning and culture, though its development has been hampered by years of conflict.&nbsp;



Despite these challenges, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-started-cumulative-culture-around-600000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">culture</a> remains a vital component of the region, which is known for its traditional crafts including weaving and embroidery.



Cultural life in Fayzabad is influenced by its predominantly Tajik population, along with other ethnic groups such as Uzbeks and Hazaras. The local cuisine is a blend of traditional Afghan flavors, incorporating ingredients like rice, meat, and a variety of spices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-land-use-changes-nbsp">Land use changes&nbsp;</h2>



“This territory has experienced notable changes in its land use in recent decades, especially with commercial and administrative growth near the airport,” noted NASA.



“Among the changes: a new airstrip built west of the Kokcha River. However, mountains hem in the city and limit how much development is possible.”



“Despite these topographical barriers, some development has spread into hilly areas south of Fayzabad. Green vegetation is mostly confined to mountain valleys, stream channels, and the Kokcha River floodplain.”&nbsp;



“The Kokcha River meanders through the valley, providing a vital water resource for the region. Fields of predominantly wheat and rice cover much of the floodplain, though these flat areas are mixed with residential, industrial, and commercial activity as well.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kokcha-river-nbsp">Kokcha River&nbsp;</h2>



The Kokcha River originates in the Hindu Kush mountains. It stretches approximately 360 kilometers before joining the Amu Darya, one of Central Asia's major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hypoxia-is-a-serious-problem-in-rivers-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rivers</a>.&nbsp;



The Kokcha River traverses rugged terrain, providing vital irrigation for agriculture in the region and supporting local communities' livelihoods.&nbsp;The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-amount-of-water-do-earths-rivers-hold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">river</a> basin features diverse landscapes that include mountainous areas and fertile valleys.&nbsp;



Throughout history, the Kokcha River has played a crucial role in the region's cultural and economic development, serving as a natural resource for the inhabitants and influencing settlement patterns.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Fayzabad and the Kokcha River valley 

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features a plume of Saharan dust pouring off the coast of southern Morocco.



The Sahara Desert is the world's biggest source of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-is-an-understudied-contributor-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">airborne dust</a>. Each year, it releases hundreds of millions of tons of mineral dust that are lifted into the atmosphere and transported across vast distances up to thousands of miles. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saharan-air-layer-nbsp">Saharan Air Layer&nbsp;</h2>



The transport of Saharan dust is primarily driven by the trade winds and atmospheric phenomena such as the Saharan Air Layer (SAL). This dry air mass often accompanies tropical storms across the Atlantic, sometimes even influencing the development and intensity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saharan-dust-can-intensify-hurricanes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hurricanes</a>.&nbsp;



“From late spring to early fall, it is common for the dry, dusty Saharan Air Layer to carry the particles westward across the Atlantic Ocean high in the atmosphere. With different wind patterns in the winter and spring, dust emerging from North Africa can drift over the United Kingdom and western Europe at relatively low altitudes,” said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153246/dust-pours-off-the-moroccan-coast" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



“Saharan Air Layer activity subsides after mid-August, according to NOAA, making it less likely that the plume shown here is bound for a transoceanic journey. Instead, it arcs to the north after blowing out over the ocean. Earlier in the summer, however, several clouds of fine dust from the Sahara reached the United States, creating hazy skies over Texas.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-saharan-dust-nbsp">Impacts of Saharan dust&nbsp;</h2>



Saharan dust plays a crucial role in global climate and environmental systems. For example, Saharan dust can affect weather patterns by absorbing and scattering sunlight, influencing temperature and cloud formation. It also plays a role in fertilizing ecosystems, such as the Amazon rainforest, by providing essential nutrients like iron and phosphorus.&nbsp;



However, Saharan dust also has more complex impacts. It can reduce air quality, leading to respiratory issues in people living downwind of the dust. In addition, the dust impacts <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atmospheric-dust-plays-surprisingly-crucial-role-in-stabilizing-ocean-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a> health by contributing to algae blooms, which can create dead zones in marine environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dust-clouds-and-human-health">Dust clouds and human health</h2>



In a recent study from Texas A&amp;M University, researchers explored the potential health impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sahara-desert-dust-storms-carry-harmful-bacteria-and-fungi-around-the-globe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria and fungi</a> that travel within dust plumes.&nbsp;



The team found traces of several pathogens known to cause disease in humans, as listed by the World Health Organization (WHO).



Study co-author Dr. Daniel Spalink noted that while the DNA of several pathogenic bacteria and fungi were identified in African dust, it is not yet known if they can infect us and make us sick. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-summertime-dust-events">Summertime dust events</h2>



“Scientists are interested in summertime Saharan dust events in part because of the influence they can have on large storm systems. Dry, stable, dust-laden air can inhibit tropical cyclone formation in the North Atlantic. And in a new study, researchers found that dust can modulate the amount of rainfall brought by these storms,” noted NASA.



“Using a machine-learning model based on meteorological data, NASA’s IMERG (Integrated Multi-Satellite Retrievals for GPM) precipitation estimates, and other satellite measurements, the study’s authors found that dust optical depth - a measure of how much light filters through a dusty plume - was a key predictor of rainfall from tropical cyclones.”



The researchers concluded that smaller amounts of dust particles promote the formation of rain clouds, while the sunlight-blocking effects of large dust clouds ultimately suppress precipitation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saharan-dust-storms">Saharan dust storms</h2>



Dust storms in the Sahara Desert are some of the most far-reaching in the world. These storms, also known as haboobs, occur when strong winds lift large quantities of sand and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-impacts-dust-levels-on-a-global-scale/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dust</a> from the desert's surface into the atmosphere.&nbsp;



Saharan dust storms vary in intensity, with some being relatively mild while others are severe, reducing visibility to almost zero and creating hazardous conditions. They often happen in the spring and early summer when the temperature difference between the desert and the surrounding regions creates strong pressure gradients, fueling powerful winds.



Ultimately, these dust storms are a natural part of life. They shape the landscape over time by eroding rock formations and redistributing sand dunes. Despite their destructive potential, they are also a reminder of the dynamic and interconnected nature of Earth's climate systems.



The image was captured on August 24, 2024 by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the Suomi NPP satellite.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Saharan dust launches off the Moroccan coast

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a false-color radar depiction of central Ethiopia.



According to ESA, the photograph is a blend of multiple Sentinel-1 images from spring, summer and autumn 2023, which have been overlaid to create this single image.



“Radar images capture surface texture rather than reflected light so they are naturally black and white but here images from each season have been assigned a different color: red, green and blue respectively,” explained <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“When the images are combined, the different colors reveal variations that occurred in the different seasons.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rugged-terrain-of-central-ethiopia-nbsp">Rugged terrain of central Ethiopia&nbsp;</h2>



ESA noted that Ethiopia’s terrain is one of the most rugged in Africa. The landscape is primarily characterized by highlands and plateaus.&nbsp;



The Ethiopian Highlands, also known as the Roof of Africa, dominate this region and include some of the highest peaks in Africa, such as Ras Dashen. The terrain features steep escarpments, deep valleys, and numerous rivers.&nbsp;



The central part of the country is also home to the Great Rift Valley, which runs through Ethiopia and includes a series of lakes and volcanic mountains. This region's varied topography contributes to its rich biodiversity and distinct climate zones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lakes-of-central-ethiopia-nbsp">Lakes of central Ethiopia&nbsp;</h2>



According to ESA, water bodies appear dark in this image because flat water surfaces reflect the radar signal away from the satellite. “The various colors visible in some lakes are due either to the changing surface currents and sediments from rivers or to variations in water level.”



Lake Ziway is one of the largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/africas-flamingos-at-risk-due-to-rising-lake-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lakes</a> in the region. It is located about 160 kilometers south of Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia.&nbsp;



The lake is known for its rich bird diversity, including large populations of pelicans, cormorants, and herons. Lake Ziway also supports local fishing communities.



Lake Shala is the deepest lake in the Ethiopian Rift Valley and is known for its volcanic origins. It has a maximum depth of 266 meters and is surrounded by hot springs and steep, rocky cliffs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-of-central-ethiopia-nbsp">Climate of central Ethiopia&nbsp;</h2>



Central Ethiopia features a diverse climate, primarily influenced by its elevation and geographical location within the tropics.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-highland-climate">Highland climate</h3>



Much of central Ethiopia consists of highlands, with elevations ranging from 1,500 to over 3,000 meters above sea level. These highlands experience a temperate climate, with cooler <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/temperatures-in-africa-are-rising-above-levels-that-rhinoceros-can-tolerate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a> compared to the lowlands.&nbsp;



The average temperatures range from 50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. The higher elevations, such as those found in the Ethiopian Highlands, can experience temperatures that are close to freezing at night.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rainy-seasons">Rainy seasons</h3>



Central Ethiopia has two main rainy seasons. The primary rainy season, known as the "Kiremt," occurs from June to September and brings the majority of the annual rainfall.&nbsp;



The "Belg," or short rainy season, occurs from March to May. The rainfall during these periods supports agriculture, which is a key part of the region's economy.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dry-season">Dry season</h3>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/africas-wet-forests-have-seen-an-alarming-rise-in-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dry season</a>, known as the "Bega," spans from October to February.&nbsp;During this time, the region experiences significantly less rainfall, and the weather tends to be sunny and dry. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-culture-of-central-ethiopia-nbsp">Culture of central Ethiopia&nbsp;</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-not-the-only-animals-that-create-their-own-culture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">culture</a> of central Ethiopia is a dynamic blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. This culture is characterized by a strong sense of community and a profound connection to the region's historical and spiritual roots.



The Amhara people have played a significant role in the cultural and political life of central Ethiopia. The Amhara are known for their rich heritage, which includes the Amharic language, a Semitic tongue that serves as one of the country's official languages.



Orthodox Christianity is a key aspect of central Ethiopian culture, particularly among the Amhara and other highland communities.&nbsp;



This part of East Africa is also known for its traditional music and dance, which reflect the region's historical depth and cultural diversity.&nbsp;



The cuisine of central Ethiopia is another significant cultural aspect, with injera (a spongy flatbread made from teff) being a staple food.&nbsp;Injera is typically served with a variety of stews (wats) and salads.



The communal eating experience, where meals are shared from a single large plate, emphasizes the importance of community and togetherness.



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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The vibrant seasons of central Ethiopia

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features NGC 6744 - a large, barred spiral galaxy located approximately 30 million light-years away in the constellation Pavo.&nbsp;



The galaxy is often considered a close analog to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uma3-u1-faintest-star-system-found-orbiting-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> due to its similar structure and size, spanning about 175,000 light-years across.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-euclid-space-mission-nbsp">Euclid space mission&nbsp;</h2>



The image was captured by the <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Euclid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Euclid</a> space telescope. NGC 6744 stands out as a prime example of the galaxies currently forming the majority of stars in the nearby universe, making it an ideal subject for study with the Euclid mission.&nbsp;



Euclid’s extensive field-of-view allows it to capture the entire galaxy, showcasing not only its large-scale spiral structure but also revealing intricate details on smaller scales across various wavelengths. These details include feather-like dust lanes, known as “spurs,” emerging from the spiral arms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-ngc-6744">Star formation in NGC 6744</h2>



Euclid's observations enable scientists to count individual stars within NGC 6744, trace the distribution of stars and dust throughout the galaxy, and map the dust associated with the gas that fuels the development of new stars. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Star formation</a> is a key process in the growth of galaxies, making these studies crucial for understanding galaxy evolution.



Researchers are utilizing Euclid’s data to explore the relationship between dust, gas, and star formation; to map the distribution of different stellar populations and identify regions of active star formation; and to investigate the underlying physics of spiral galaxy structures.&nbsp;



Spiral arms play a significant role in star formation by compressing gas, yet the precise mechanisms behind this process are still unclear. The presence of “spurs” along NGC 6744’s spiral arms offers valuable insights into the dynamics of star formation within these structures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-new-dwarf-galaxies-nbsp">Discovering new dwarf galaxies&nbsp;</h2>



Additionally, Euclid's dataset will help scientists identify clusters of old stars (globular clusters) and discover new dwarf galaxies around NGC 6744. Remarkably, Euclid has already identified a new dwarf satellite galaxy of NGC 6744 - a surprising discovery given that the galaxy has been studied extensively.



With Euclid’s detailed observations, scientists are gaining a deeper understanding of the processes shaping galaxies, providing essential clues to the evolution and appearance of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universes-expansion-rate-hubble-tension-puzzles-astronomers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-ngc-6744">More about NGC 6744</h2>



NGC 6744's disk is rich in star-forming regions and contains numerous young, bright blue stars. The galaxy's nucleus is slightly elongated and has a bar structure, which influences the motion of the stars and gas within it.&nbsp;



The spiral arms of NGC 6744 are well-defined and extend outward, wrapping around the central bar. Additionally, NGC 6744 has a smaller companion galaxy, NGC 6744A, which is interacting with it, adding to the complexity and interest of this distant system.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiral-galaxies">Spiral galaxies</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-mesmerizing-beauty-of-spiral-galaxies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spiral galaxies</a> are one of the most common types of galaxies in the universe, characterized by their distinct, spiral-shaped structure.&nbsp;



The galaxies typically consist of a flat, rotating disk containing stars, gas, and dust, along with a central concentration of stars known as the bulge. This bulge is often surrounded by a halo of older stars.&nbsp;



The spiral arms, which extend from the central bulge, are regions of active star formation and are rich in young, hot stars, giving them a bright, bluish appearance.&nbsp;



These arms are also sites where interstellar gas and dust are concentrated, leading to the formation of new stars.&nbsp;



Spiral galaxies are classified into different types based on the tightness of their spirals and the size of their central bulge, with classifications ranging from tightly wound arms in Sa galaxies to more loosely wound arms in Sc galaxies. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, our home galaxy, is a prime example of a spiral galaxy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-pavo">The constellation Pavo</h2>



Pavo, which means "peacock" in Latin, is a constellation in the southern sky. It was named by the Dutch astronomer Petrus Plancius in the late 16th century, based on observations made during the Dutch explorations of the southern hemisphere. 



Pavo is one of the 12 constellations created by Plancius from the records of explorers Pieter Dirkszoon Keyser and Frederick de Houtman. 



The constellation is known for its distinctive shape, resembling a peacock with a long, curved tail. Pavo is not visible from most of the northern hemisphere, but it can be seen from the southern hemisphere, particularly during the winter months.



The constellation contains several interesting celestial objects, including the star Peacock, also known as Alpha Pavonis, which is the brightest star in the constellation. This star is a blue-white subgiant located about 179 light-years from Earth.



Image Credit: <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>/Euclid/Euclid Consortium/NASA&nbsp;



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Spiral galaxy NGC 6744 in the constellation Pavo

This Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the city of Timbuktu in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/dust-storm-in-the-sahara-desert/">Sahara Desert</a>. Timbuktu in the Sahara Desert is so remote that two long roads are the only reliable ways to access the city. In medieval times, however, Timbuktu served as a major trading hub where people met to exchange salt, gold, and ivory.

Timbuktu in the Sahara Desert

For years, scientists thought they had a good grasp on what happens when a molecule of water meets air. You know, the stuff we read in textbooks? Turns out, we’ve been wrong. 



A group of researchers discovered that the molecules at the surface of salt water organize themselves in a way that’s totally different than we ever thought.



Dr. Yair Litman from the <a href="https://www.ch.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry</a> led the team, and this revelation shakes up some long-held beliefs in climate science. 



It might sound like just another science experiment, but this one has real-world implications, especially when it comes to understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-weaker-ocean-will-release-more-carbon-into-the-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">how our atmosphere works</a> and how to mitigate human impacts on the planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemistry-at-the-surface-of-water-molecules">Chemistry at the surface of water molecules</h2>



When we think about where important chemical reactions happen, we might not immediately picture the surface of the ocean or a glass of salt water. But that’s exactly where critical interactions take place, especially when water meets air. 



Think of it: the evaporation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-induced-changes-in-ocean-salinity-threaten-biodiversity-and-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean water affects our climate</a>, drives weather patterns, and even influences the chemistry of the air we breathe. It’s a big deal.



For years, the science community has been trying to get a handle on exactly what happens at that surface, particularly how ions -- those tiny charged particles in salt -- behave when they hang out at the water’s edge. 



Are they neatly lined up? Do they play nice with water molecules? Well, until now, it was all pretty much guesswork. The exact behavior of ions at the water-air interface has been hotly debated.



That’s where Litman’s team, along with Dr. Kuo-Yang Chiang from the <a href="https://www.mpg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute</a>, comes in. Their study, published in Nature Chemistry, changes the game. 



By combining cutting-edge technology with advanced simulations, they’ve shown that water molecules at the surface of salt water don’t behave the way we’ve always thought. And yes, this is big news.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-at-the-surface-of-water-molecules">Looking at the surface of water molecules</h2>



The traditional view, found in most textbooks, was simple: ions, which are either positively or negatively charged, line up at the surface and organize water molecules in one direction. But according to this new research, that’s not how things work at all.



The team used a more advanced form of a technique called vibrational sum-frequency generation (<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sum_frequency_generation_spectroscopy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VSFG</a>). In the past, VSFG allowed scientists to look at molecular vibrations on the surface of water. 



But it had a flaw -- it couldn’t tell whether these vibrations were positive or negative, which made it hard to interpret what was really going on. Kind of like trying to figure out a conversation by only hearing half of it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trying-a-different-technique">Trying a different technique</h2>



That’s where heterodyne-detected (HD)-VSFG came into play. This technique takes things a step further, allowing the team to not only measure the vibrations but also figure out their direction. 



The result? They discovered that ions at the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ancient-ocean-water-shaped-early-life-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surface of salt water</a> don’t just form a single layer and organize water molecules in one direction. 



Instead, ions organize water molecules both up and down, flipping the textbook model on its head.



“Our work demonstrates that the surface of simple electrolyte solutions has a different ion distribution than previously thought,” Litman explained. 



“At the very top, there are a few layers of pure water, followed by an ion-rich layer, and then the bulk salt solution.”



This means that, rather than ions neatly lining up and orienting water molecules in one direction, they create a much more complex and dynamic environment. 



It’s like discovering that your once-quiet neighborhood is actually buzzing with activity behind closed doors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-this-matter">Why does this matter?</h2>



If you’re thinking, “Okay, but why should I care how ions behave at the surface of water?” The answer lies in how this discovery affects <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weather-in-dry-regions-isnt-behaving-as-climate-models-predict/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric science</a>. 



The surface of water -- especially ocean water -- is where a lot of important reactions take place. Evaporation, cloud formation, and even how pollutants break down in the atmosphere all hinge on these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aerosol-formation-earths-lower-atmosphere-soas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water-air interfaces</a>.



When we don’t fully understand how ions behave at the water’s surface, we can’t make accurate models for climate science. And in a world where understanding climate is crucial, having an accurate model is everything.



Dr. Kuo-Yang Chiang from the Max Planck Institute adds that this research not only deepens our understanding of liquid interfaces but could also be applied to other fields. 



"This paper shows that combining high-level HD-VSFG with simulations is an invaluable tool that will contribute to the molecular-level understanding of liquid interfaces."



In other words, this important revelation could help scientists develop better technologies for things like batteries and energy storage. 



And who knows, maybe it’ll even help us better understand how to manage some of the environmental issues we’re facing today.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technique-has-far-reaching-applications">Technique has far-reaching applications</h2>



The implications of this study don’t stop at atmospheric science. Mischa Bonn, head of the Molecular Spectroscopy department at the Max Planck Institute, believes that this discovery could pave the way for a deeper understanding of other interfaces, like those found in batteries. 



"These types of interfaces occur everywhere on the planet, so studying them not only helps our fundamental understanding but can also lead to better devices and technologies," Bonn explained.



If we can get a better grip on how molecules behave on the surface of salt water, it could improve our understanding of how they behave on the surface of a solid material, too. That’s huge for anyone working on improving batteries or other energy storage solutions.



This is one of those discoveries where the impact might not be immediately obvious, but down the road, it could change everything -- from how we build devices to how we think about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-disinformation-is-a-persistent-scourge-in-the-battle-against-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate science</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-applications-of-this-water-molecule-discovery">Applications of this water molecule discovery</h2>



To sum it all up, the findings from Dr. Litman’s team are just the beginning. Their discovery challenges decades of assumptions about water and ions, and it opens the door to a whole new area of research. 



The next steps? Applying these techniques to even more complex systems, like the interactions between water and solids, which could help us understand everything from pollution to clean energy.



It’s rare that a scientific discovery completely rewrites what we thought we knew. But when it does, it’s a reminder that science is always evolving. 



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41557-023-01416-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Chemistry</a>.



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Water molecule discovery will force textbooks to be rewritten

For years, scientists thought they had a good grasp on...

A recent study presents a new curve of global mean surface temperature, revealing that Earth's temperature has varied more than previously thought over much of the Phanerozoic Eon -- a period marked by the diversification of life, colonization of land, and multiple mass extinctions. 



The curve also confirms that Earth's temperature is strongly correlated with the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-temperature-of-earth-s-past">Studying the temperature of Earth's past</h2>



The Phanerozoic Eon began approximately 540 million years ago with the Cambrian Explosion, a time when complex, hard-shelled organisms first appeared in the fossil record.&nbsp;



Although researchers can create simulations dating back to this era, the temperature curve in the study focuses on the last 485 million years due to limited geological temperature data from earlier periods.



“It's hard to find rocks that are that old and have temperature indicators preserved in them - even at 485 million years ago we don't have that many. We were limited with how far back we could go,” said study co-author Jessica Tierney, a paleoclimatologist at the <a href="https://www.arizona.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arizona</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-developing-the-temperature-curve">Developing the temperature curve</h2>



The researchers developed the temperature curve using an approach called data assimilation. This method allowed them to combine data from the geologic record and climate models to create a more cohesive understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-climate-change-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient climates</a>.



“This method was originally developed for weather forecasting,” said Emily Judd, lead author of the paper and a former postdoctoral researcher at the <a href="https://naturalhistory.si.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History</a> and the University of Arizona. 



“Instead of using it to forecast future weather, here we're using it to hindcast ancient climates.”



Refining scientists' understanding of how Earth's temperature has fluctuated over time provides crucial context for understanding modern climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-way-back-to-predict-the-future">Looking way back to predict the future</h2>



Study co-author Scott Wing is a co-author on the paper and a curator of paleobotany at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.&nbsp;



“If you're studying the last couple of million years, you won't find anything that looks like what we expect in 2100 or 2500,” said Wing.



“You need to go back even further to periods when the Earth was really warm, because that's the only way we're going to get a better understanding of how the climate might change in the future.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-co2-is-the-biggest-driver-of-temperature-nbsp">CO2 is the biggest driver of temperature&nbsp;</h2>



The new curve reveals that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-global-temperature-exceeded-2c-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a> varied more significantly during the past 485 million years than previously thought.&nbsp;



Over this period, global temperatures ranged from 52 to 97 degrees Fahrenheit. Periods of extreme heat were most often linked to elevated levels of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.



“This research illustrates clearly that carbon dioxide is the dominant control on global temperatures across geological time,” Tierney said. “When CO₂ is low, the temperature is cold; when CO₂ is high, the temperature is warm.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapidly-warming-temperatures-on-earth">Rapidly warming temperatures on Earth</h2>



The findings also show that Earth's current global temperature of 59 degrees Fahrenheit is cooler than it has been over much of the Phanerozoic.&nbsp;



However, greenhouse gas emissions from human-caused climate change are currently warming the planet at a much faster rate than even the fastest warming events of that eon, the researchers say.&nbsp;



This rapid warming poses risks to species and ecosystems worldwide and is causing a swift rise in sea levels. Some other episodes of rapid climate change during the Phanerozoic have sparked mass <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greater-temperature-changes-linked-to-worse-extinction-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinctions</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-evolved-in-a-colder-climate">Humans evolved in a colder climate</h2>



Rapidly moving toward a warmer climate could spell danger for humans, who have mostly lived within a 10-degree Fahrenheit range for global temperatures, compared to the 45-degree span over the last 485 million years.



“Our entire species evolved to an 'ice house' climate, which doesn't reflect most of geological history,” noted Tierney. 



“We are changing the climate into a place that is really out of context for humans. The planet has been and can be warmer - but humans and animals can't adapt that fast.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-global-temperature-across-the-phanerozoic-nbsp">Earth's global temperature across the Phanerozoic&nbsp;</h2>



The collaboration between Tierney and researchers at the Smithsonian began in 2018. 



The team aimed to provide museum visitors with a curve that charted Earth's global temperature across the Phanerozoic, which began around 540 million years ago and continues into the present day.



The researchers collected more than 150,000 estimates of ancient temperatures calculated from five different chemical indicators preserved in fossilized shells and other types of ancient organic matter.&nbsp;



Their colleagues at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a> created over 850 model simulations of what Earth's climate could have looked like at different periods in the distant past, based on continental positions and atmospheric composition.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accurate-curve-of-earth-s-temperature-variation">Accurate curve of Earth's temperature variation</h2>



By combining these two lines of evidence, the team created the most accurate curve of how Earth's temperature has varied over the past 485 million years.



Another significant finding from the study pertains to climate sensitivity, a metric of how much the climate warms with the doubling of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-news-plants-are-absorbing-more-human-produced-co2-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a>.



“We found that carbon dioxide and temperature are not only really closely related, but related in the same way across 485 million years. We don't see that the climate is more sensitive when it's hot or cold,” Tierney concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.adk3705" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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How Earth’s temperature has changed over the past 500 million years

A recent study presents a new curve of global mean...

Few things are more frustrating for parents than dealing with children who are picky eaters, especially when mealtime turns into a daily battle. 



The reluctance to try new foods, the constant refusal of vegetables, or even an unwavering preference for just a few meals can leave parents desperate for solutions.



But what if the root of this problem isn't solely about parenting strategies or the types of food offered at home? What if it's largely about something parents have no control over - genetics?



A breakthrough study, conducted by three prestigious institutions - <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University College London</a> (UCL), <a href="https://www.kcl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">King’s College London</a>, and the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leeds</a> - has shed new light on the subject of food fussiness in children.



The research reveals that genetic factors play a much more critical role in picky eating than previously thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-research-backed-by-twin-studies">Research backed by twin studies</h2>



The research focused on twin children in England and Wales, ranging in age from 16 months to 13 years, allowing the team to track <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/picky-eating-habits-in-childhood-have-lingering-effects-in-adulthood/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eating habits</a> over time.



This large-scale examination, funded by MQ Mental Health Research, offers a unique window into how eating habits develop and persist.



Surprisingly, the researchers found that food fussiness levels remained fairly constant over the years, with a notable peak around the age of seven.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-factors-influencing-picky-eaters">Key factors influencing picky eaters</h2>



The genetic links to picky eating turned out to be even stronger than expected. At just 16 months, genetic differences accounted for 60% of the variation in food fussiness.



This number increased to over 74% between the ages of three and 13, suggesting that as children grow older, genetics become an even more dominant factor.



Environmental factors, such as the types of food offered at home, had a significant impact during toddlerhood but became less influential as unique experiences - like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co-workers-influence-our-healthy-and-unhealthy-food-choices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social interactions</a> and school environments - began to shape children’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-behavior-is-influenced-by-the-unconscious-mind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eating behaviors</a> in later years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-picky-eating-is-not-a-choice">Picky eating is not a choice</h2>



Dr. Zeynep Nas, an expert in UCL's Behavioural Science &amp; Health department, emphasized that food fussiness is not just a phase that children outgrow.



“Our study shows that fussy eating is largely innate and may follow a persistent trajectory," noted Dr. Nas.



This finding offers reassurance to parents who might otherwise blame themselves for their child’s picky eating habits, highlighting that fussiness is, in many cases, a natural part of a child’s development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-food-preferences">Understanding food preferences</h2>



The research team used data from the UCL-led Gemini study, which involved 2,400 sets of twins. 



By comparing fussy eating behaviors between identical twins, who share 100% of their genes, and non-identical twins, who share only 50%, the researchers found a much stronger genetic influence in identical twins. 



The findings highlight how deeply ingrained food preferences can be, as they are shaped significantly by genetic factors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-influence-on-picky-eaters">Environmental influence on picky eaters </h2>



Professor Clare Llewellyn from UCL noted that while genetics play the largest role, the environment, particularly during the toddler years, should not be disregarded.



Shared environmental factors - such as eating together as a family - were influential in the early years but became less impactful as children grew older and began forming their own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/food-choices-have-a-major-impact-on-your-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food preferences</a> based on individual experiences and peer interactions.



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



Although the study had some limitations, including a lack of ethnic and socio-economic diversity, it provides critical insights into how food fussiness develops.



Dr. Alison Fildes from the University of Leeds reminded parents that although <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegetarians-have-different-health-outcomes-due-to-genetics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetics</a> strongly influence food fussiness, it doesn’t mean these eating habits are permanent. 



Parents can continue to offer a variety of foods throughout their children’s development, though peers and social settings may have a greater influence as they grow into adolescence.



The revelation that food fussiness is largely genetic could offer some comfort to parents who have long wondered whether their child’s picky eating is a result of their actions. 



However, despite the genetic predispositions, encouraging a wide range of food remains important in helping children develop healthier and more diverse eating habits.



The study is published in the <a href="https://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcpp.14053" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry</a>.



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Don't blame the picky eater - food fussiness is mainly genetic

Few things are more frustrating for parents than dealing with...

Iron is a crucial micronutrient for life, playing an essential role in processes such as respiration, photosynthesis, and DNA synthesis. 



In modern oceans, iron availability is often limited, meaning that increasing the supply of iron can boost carbon fixation by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/phytoplankton-resilient-nutrient-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phytoplankton</a>, which in turn influences the global climate.



Iron enters oceans and land ecosystems through rivers, melting glaciers, hydrothermal vents, and especially wind. However, not all iron forms are “bioreactive,” meaning not all forms are readily available for organisms to absorb.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bioreactive-iron-in-saharan-dust-nbsp">Bioreactive iron in Saharan dust&nbsp;</h2>



“Here we show that iron bound to dust from the Sahara blown westward over the Atlantic has properties that change with the distance traveled: the greater this distance, the more bioreactive the iron,” said co-author Jeremy Owens, an associate professor at <a href="https://www.fsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida State University</a>. 



“This relationship suggests that chemical processes in the atmosphere convert less bioreactive iron to more accessible forms.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-cores-from-the-atlantic-seafloor">Studying cores from the Atlantic seafloor</h2>



Owens and his team analyzed bioreactive and total iron content from drill cores collected at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean by the <a href="https://www.iodp.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Ocean Discovery Program</a> (IODP) and its predecessors. 



The mission of this program is to deepen our understanding of climate change, oceanic conditions, geological processes, and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-clues-about-the-origins-of-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">origin of life</a>. 



The researchers selected four cores, varying in their proximity to the Sahara-Sahel Dust Corridor, which stretches from Mauritania to Chad and is a significant source of dust-bound iron.



The two closest cores were located approximately 200 km and 500 km west of northwestern Mauritania. The third was from the mid-Atlantic, while the fourth was around 500 km east of Florida.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-iron-levels-over-120-000-years">Iron levels over 120,000 years</h2>



The experts studied the upper 60 to 200 meters of these cores, which represent deposits spanning the last 120,000 years, covering the period since the previous interglacial.



Using a plasma-mass spectrometer, the team measured total iron concentrations and iron isotope levels in the cores. These isotope readings matched the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saharan-dust-can-intensify-hurricanes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dust</a> originating from the Sahara.



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



Additionally, the researchers used chemical reactions to identify iron present in the form of various minerals, such as iron carbonate, goethite, hematite, magnetite, and pyrite. 



While these minerals are not bioreactive, they likely formed from more bioreactive iron through geochemical processes on the seafloor.



“Rather than focusing on the total iron content as previous studies had done, we measured iron that can dissolve easily in the ocean, and which can be accessed by marine organisms for their metabolic pathways,” said Owens.



“Only a fraction of total iron in sediment is bioavailable, but that fraction could change during transport of the iron away from its original source. We aimed to explore those relationships.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saharan-dust-and-ocean-life">Saharan dust and ocean life</h2>



The study’s results revealed that the proportion of bioreactive iron was lower in the westernmost cores compared to the easternmost ones.&nbsp;



This indicated that a significant amount of bioreactive iron had been lost during transport, presumably consumed by organisms in the water before reaching the seafloor.



“Our results suggest that during long-distance atmospheric transport, the mineral properties of originally non-bioreactive dust-bound iron change, making it more bioreactive. This iron then gets taken up by phytoplankton, before it can reach the bottom,” said senior author Timothy Lyons, a professor at the <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California at Riverside</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dust-bound-iron-supports-ocean-life">Dust-bound iron supports ocean life</h2>



According to Professor Lyons, the team concluded that Saharan dust which reaches regions like the Amazonian basin and the Bahamas may contain iron that is particularly soluble and available to ocean life



This is due to the great distance from North Africa, and thus a longer exposure to atmospheric chemical processes.



“The transported iron seems to be stimulating biological processes much in the same way that iron fertilization can impact life in the oceans and on continents,” said Professor Lyons.



“This study is a proof of concept confirming that dust-bound iron can have a major impact on life at vast distances from its source.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2024.1428621" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Marine Science</a>.



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Saharan dust supports ocean life far from the desert

Iron is a crucial micronutrient for life, playing an essential...

A new study suggests that residing in under-resourced neighborhoods with limited access to affordable and nutritious foods during critical periods, such as pregnancy or early childhood, significantly raises the risk of developing obesity.



Childhood obesity is not just a short-term issue; it often has far-reaching consequences, contributing to a higher likelihood of obesity in adulthood and increasing the risk for chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.



Limited access to healthy foods in early childhood often lead to severe obesity that persists into adolescence - a stage where lifestyle habits become more ingrained and harder to change.



Addressing this issue early on could be key to reducing the overall prevalence of obesity later in life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overlooked-early-stages-of-life">Overlooked early stages of life</h2>



While previous research has established a clear connection between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/food-insecurity-increases-cognitive-decline-in-older-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food insecurity</a> and obesity in adults, early life stages have often been overlooked despite their crucial role in shaping long-term health trajectories.



The study, led by investigators from the <a href="https://www.harvardpilgrim.org/public/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute</a>, sheds light on how early life stages can shape health outcomes for children.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-impact-of-food-insecurity">The impact of food insecurity</h2>



Study lead author Dr. Izzuddin Aris is an assistant professor of population medicine at Harvard Medical School.



“Understanding how experiencing food insecurity during these formative years impacts subsequent child obesity is essential," said Dr. Aris.



"By unraveling the mechanisms and identifying risk factors linking neighborhood <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-diets-linked-to-education-and-food-access/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food access</a> and obesity in children, we can develop targeted preventive strategies that may mitigate chronic conditions in the future.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neighborhoods-and-childhood-obesity-risk">Neighborhoods and childhood obesity risk</h2>



The research team examined data from over 28,000 children across the U.S., drawn from 55 birth cohorts participating in the NIH’s Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) program. 



This comprehensive dataset allowed the researchers to explore the complex relationships between neighborhood environments and childhood health outcomes on a national scale.



The experts found that neighborhoods classified as low-income-low-food-access - where the nearest supermarket is more than half a mile away in urban areas or over 10 miles away in rural regions - present significant barriers to accessing healthy and affordable food options.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-influence-of-environmental-factors">Powerful influence of environmental factors</h2>



Limited access to nutritious food in these areas can make it challenging for families to provide <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeding-children-healthy-diets-can-be-very-challenging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">balanced diets</a>, contributing to poor health outcomes.



The study revealed a striking correlation: residing in these under-resourced areas during pregnancy was associated with a more than 50% higher risk of obesity and severe obesity from childhood to adolescence. 



The findings are concerning. The research emphasizes the powerful influence that early environmental factors, like food access, can have on a child’s long-term health trajectory, setting the stage for future health risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategic-interventions-are-needed">Strategic interventions are needed</h2>



Dr. Aris emphasized the importance of strategic interventions to address this growing issue, noting that proactive steps must be taken to mitigate the long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/severe-childhood-obesity-can-cut-life-expectancy-in-half/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health consequences of childhood obesity</a>. 



Without targeted efforts, the cycle of food insecurity and obesity may persist, disproportionately affecting children in under-resourced communities and placing them at a higher risk for chronic conditions later in life.



“Our findings support a focus on investments or strategies to improve healthful food access in early life," said Dr. Aris.



"This includes incentivizing new supermarkets in existing low-income-low-food-access neighborhoods, providing healthy-choice pantries, and improving access to healthier food choices in small retail corner and convenience stores."



"Such investments could play a crucial role in preventing child obesity and promoting healthier communities.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-concern-of-childhood-obesity">Growing concern of childhood obesity</h2>



Childhood obesity is an escalating public health issue with profound implications. According to recent statistics, nearly one in five children in the U.S. is affected by obesity, and the rates continue to rise.



Obesity in childhood often leads to a cascade of long-term health complications, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and joint issues. 



Beyond physical health, obesity can also impact mental health, leading to low self-esteem, depression, and social isolation.



The findings from this study further highlight the critical need to address environmental and social factors, such as food access, to combat childhood obesity. 



By focusing on early interventions and improving access to healthy food options, we can not only reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obesity-now-affects-more-than-a-billion-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity rates</a> but also cultivate healthier, more resilient communities.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/article-abstract/2823466" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Pediatrics</a>.



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Neighborhood food access linked to childhood obesity risk

A new study suggests that residing in under-resourced neighborhoods with...

A recent scientific breakthrough reveals the profound influence of human breast milk on the health of an infant. In a nutshell, our body's most natural nourishment for newborns, breast milk, is found to have a protective effect against asthma by shaping the baby's microbiome during the first year of life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mother-s-milk-natural-pacemaker-for-infants">Mother's milk: Natural pacemaker for infants</h2>



You might wonder why breast milk is a big deal. Well, the answer lies in our body's complex community of microorganisms, known as the microbiome. 



A recent study led by NYU Langone Health and the <a href="https://umanitoba.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Manitoba</a> shows that breastfeeding for more than three months supports the gradual maturation of the microbiome in the infant's digestive system and nasal cavity. 



Stopping breastfeeding before this period disrupts this development process, leading to a higher risk of preschool asthma.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breast-milk-and-the-microbiome">Breast milk and the microbiome</h2>



Human breast <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/engineered-gmo-plants-make-baby-formula-healthy-as-breast-milk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">milk</a> isn't just about nutrition. It is also about promoting the right microbes in the infant's gut and nasal cavity. 



Some components in breast milk, like complex sugars called human milk oligosaccharides, can only be broken down with the help of certain microbes. 



This gives a leg-up to these microbes over others, creating a specialized microbiome environment within the infant.



Early weaning from breast milk, on the other hand, leads to a different set of microbes thriving, ones that help digest formula components.



These microbes eventually colonize all babies, but their early arrival is linked to an increased risk of asthma.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breast-milk-for-asthma-prevention">Breast milk for asthma prevention</h2>



Study co-senior investigator Dr. Liat Shenhav is an assistant professor at <a href="https://med.nyu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NYU Grossman School of Medicine</a> in the Institute for Systems Genetics and the Department of Microbiology.



“Just as a pacemaker regulates the rhythm of the heart, breastfeeding and human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thc-from-cannabis-use-lingers-breast-milk-new-mothers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">milk</a> set the pace and sequence for microbial colonization in the infant’s gut and nasal cavity, ensuring that this process occurs in an orderly and timely manner,” said Dr. Shenhav. 



“Healthy microbiome development is not only about having the right microbes. They also need to arrive in the right order at the right time."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbiome-asthma-and-breast-milk">Microbiome, asthma, and breast milk</h2>



This is the part where science gets interesting. Breastfed children had a later appearance of a bacterial species called Ruminococcus gnavus in their guts compared to formula-fed babies. 



This bacterium is related to the production of molecules called short-chain fatty acids, and the formation and breakdown of the amino acid tryptophan.



Both of these processes have ties to immune system regulation and disruption, including an increased asthma risk.



Through tracking the changes in the infants' microbiomes and their mothers' breastfeeding habits, the researchers were able to identify breastfeeding duration as a crucial determinant of the child's microbial makeup. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuable-insights-through-machine-learning">Valuable insights through machine learning</h2>



The team also created a machine-learning model that predicted asthma years in advance based on these microbial patterns and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-triggers-the-release-of-breast-milk-in-mothers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">milk components</a>. The primary way breastfeeding reduces asthma risk, they found, is through shaping the infant's microbiome.



“The algorithms we developed provide valuable insights into microbial dynamics during an infant’s first year of life and how these microbes interacted with the infant,” said Dr. Shenhav.



These insights allowed the team to move beyond identifying associations, enhancing their ability to make predictions and explore causal relationships.



“Our research highlights the profound impact of breastfeeding on the infant microbiome and breastfeeding’s essential role in supporting respiratory health,” Shenhav explained.



By uncovering the mechanisms behind the protective effects of breast milk, as demonstrated in this study, scientists aim to inform national guidelines on breastfeeding and weaning from breast milk in a data-driven manner.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-milestone-in-infant-health-research">Milestone in infant health research</h2>



The research has been supported through a variety of grants and programs, including the National Institutes of Health and the <a href="https://www.chairs-chaires.gc.ca/home-accueil-eng.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Canada Research Chair Program</a>.



The study was a part of the CHILD Cohort Study, which has been studying the same 3,500 Canadian children at different life stages, starting from the womb and stretching into adolescence.



The tireless efforts of a large, dedicated group of investigators from various institutions have made this research possible. 



The experts have provided valuable insights into the complex dynamics of the microbiome in an infant's first year of life, showing us how important mother's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nutrition-for-neurons-the-role-of-breast-milk-in-shaping-our-brains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">milk</a> are for respiratory health and asthma prevention.



This is a reminder that sometimes, the most natural solutions are the most effective ones.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/cell/fulltext/S0092-8674(24)00782-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell</a>.



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Breast milk is crucial for microbiome development in babies

A recent scientific breakthrough reveals the profound influence of human...

Ecologists have long sought to understand the dietary habits of different animal species. In a recent study, researchers have explored the puzzling question of how competing herbivores in Yellowstone National Park, which feed on grasses, wildflowers, and trees, manage to find enough food to survive the winter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hunting-strategies-of-yellowstone-s-herbivores-nbsp">Hunting strategies of Yellowstone’s herbivores&nbsp;</h2>



Over a two-year period, using advanced molecular biology tools and GPS tracking data, the research team was able to identify not only what herbivores in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-tourism-generates-over-1-megaton-carbon-annually/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yellowstone</a> consume, but also the strategies they use to find food throughout the year.



“In Yellowstone, we know vegetation changes across seasons, but until now, we didn’t know how these seasonal changes influenced what animals eat or how they sustained themselves when options were limited,” said lead author Bethan Littleford-Colquhoun, a postdoctoral research associate at <a href="https://www.brown.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brown University</a>.&nbsp;



“It turns out that while species eat similar categories of food, their diets differ from one another in cryptic and nuanced ways. And an animal’s body size plays an important role in how this is achieved.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fluctuating-food-supplies">Fluctuating food supplies</h2>



For years, ecologists have debated how wildlife should cope with fluctuations in their food supplies, explained co-author Tyler Kartzinel, an associate professor of ecology, evolution, and organismal biology at Brown.



Some experts propose that animals should diversify their diets to cater to their preferences when they have more choices in summer, Kartzinel said.&nbsp;



Others suggest that animals are more likely to diversify what they eat during challenging periods, like winter, when competition for food is fierce, and they might have to settle for less desirable options.



“These opposing predictions couldn’t both be true, so it wasn’t at all clear how Yellowstone's assemblage of herbivore species - with such a diversity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-foraging-behavior-changing-climate-warming-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">foraging behaviors</a> - could succeed in finding enough food throughout the year,” Kartzinel said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-the-behavior-of-competing-animals">Tracking the behavior of competing animals</h2>



To investigate, the researchers used two years of GPS tracking and dietary DNA data to explore how dietary variation changes during times of resource scarcity and abundance for five of Yellowstone’s most iconic species: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-influences-the-movement-of-plains-bison/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bison</a>, elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and pronghorn antelope.



Staff at Yellowstone tracked the animals, while researchers at Brown, including many undergraduate students supervised by Littleford-Colquhoun, analyzed fecal samples using a sophisticated molecular technique called metabarcoding. This method helped determine what foods the animals had eaten.



The study revealed that all species took advantage of the seasonal abundance of wildflowers in summer. However, in winter, each species focused its foraging efforts on the specific plant types it was best suited to compete for.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feeding-behaviors-are-linked-to-animal-size-nbsp">Feeding behaviors are linked to animal size&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers also found that feeding behaviors were linked to the animal's body size. Smaller species, like deer and sheep, spread out across summer meadows, significantly broadening their diets before gathering in sheltered valleys to survive the winter on leftover vegetation.&nbsp;



In contrast, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forest-biodiversity-benefits-from-large-herbivores-like-elephants-and-moose/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">larger animals</a>, such as bison, displayed the opposite behavior: in winter, their size allowed them to avoid competing for dwindling resources, so they ventured into deep snow to access food reserves that were out of reach for smaller species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-competing-animals-are-surprisingly-adaptable">Competing animals are surprisingly adaptable</h2>



“The study showed that these species can feed far more adaptably than anyone had previously assumed,” Littleford-Colquhoun said.&nbsp;



“All species switch the ways they search for food, but the opportunities an individual bison has to fuel its migration or survive a hard winter might only work for it because it’s big. Meanwhile, other species might need to group together for protection in winter because they’re small.”



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



So, should animals diversify their diets in summer or winter? According to Kartzinel, the answer depends on the species.



“Because of the variety of ways animals behaved in our study, we learned that both hypotheses about how animals fuel their migrations were right, but in different ways and at different times,” Kartzinel said.&nbsp;



“So the question that biologists should have been bickering about for the past generation shouldn't have been, ‘Which foraging strategy is right?’ but rather, ‘When does each strategy work best for a given group of animals?’”



Kartzinel hopes that these more refined insights into foraging behaviors will encourage scientists to adopt a more tailored approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildlife-conservation-can-help-stabilize-the-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife conservation</a>.



“If we want to help wildlife populations thrive, we should be maintaining a diversity of habitats and plant resources across their migratory corridors so that many animals, each with their own preferences, personalities and needs, can find what's best to fuel their journey,” Kartzinel concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsos.240136" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Society Open Science</a>.



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How do competing animals manage to find enough food?

Ecologists have long sought to understand the dietary habits of...

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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

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" 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> (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

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" 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 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

[sendtonews key="iuA5mpp3jv-1641775-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

Umnak Island is seen here in the Image of the Day taken by the <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory.</a> Umnak Island is the third largest in the Aleutian Island chain. The Island is covered in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanoes-erupt-next/">volcanoes</a>, including Mount Okmok on its northern end, which erupted in 2008.

Umnak Island in the Aleutian Islands

Autumn foliage in <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/southern-maine-usa/">Maine</a> is featured here in today’s Image of the Day from the <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a>. It’s that time of year again when the leaves change colors before falling off for the winter. Here in Baxter State Park can be seen a beautiful array of reds, oranges, tans, and greens.