If you’re a male gray frog trying to find a mate, you’d better have a fast and steady call. That’s what female treefrogs usually go for. But when the crowd gets loud and chaotic, things change. The males that don’t sound all that great? They suddenly have a shot.



In quiet situations where females only hear two males at once, their preferences are clear. They go for the one with the sharper, more rhythmic call. 



But when four or even eight males are calling at once, things get messy. Female choices become unpredictable. This isn’t just a frog issue - it ties into a broader idea that scientists call “choice overload.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-frogs-face-chaos-in-the-chorus">Frogs face chaos in the chorus</h2>



In nature, frogs gather in large, noisy groups called choruses. Picture a shallow pond in spring, with dozens of males calling out at the same time. It’s the frog equivalent of a dating scene in a packed nightclub.



The researchers found that the crowded conditions of these choruses might be too overwhelming for females to reliably pick the best mate. It’s not that they stop caring - it’s that they can’t tell who’s who.



Professor Jessie Tanner of the <a href="https://www.utk.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tennessee, Knoxville</a>, led a team studying how choice overload affects evolution.



“Because female mate choice can drive evolution, our results suggest that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unraveling-the-story-of-early-animal-evolution/">evolution</a> might happen more slowly than we thought before,” she said. 



“Some males that are fairly unattractive could still mate, especially if they take advantage of crowded spaces where females might be less able to discriminate between attractive and unattractive males.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-when-choices-are-too-hard">What happens when choices are too hard?</h2>



The idea of choice overload is pretty common in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/science-behind-predicting-and-changing-human-behavior/">human behavior</a>. You walk into a store to buy toothpaste and face 50 brands. You either freeze, grab something random, or walk away. Same goes for dating apps with endless swiping.



“We wanted to understand how having to make mating decisions in crowded environments, where choice overload could be a problem, might drive the evolution of calls,” Tanner explained. 



“Since males that are chosen by females pass on their genes to the next generation, this mate choice can cause the population to change over time.”



When animals, like people, face too many options, their decision-making can break down. That opens up a chance for less attractive mates to get picked - not because they became more appealing, but because the chooser got overwhelmed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choice-overload-in-other-animals">Choice overload in other animals</h2>



This isn’t just about frogs. Scientists are now looking at how this effect shows up in other animals. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bumblebees-increasingly-stressed-over-the-past-century/">Bumblebees</a>, for instance, are on the list. So are wood roaches.



“Our lab is working to understand how choice overload and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frogs-have-lungs-that-cancel-out-background-noise/">noise</a> may each contribute to the difficulty female treefrogs face in making mating decisions,” Tanner said. 



“We are also working to understand whether this choice overload is something that occurs generally in many different kinds of animals or is more specific to individual species.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simultaneous-cricket-songs">Simultaneous cricket songs </h2>



Tanner, who has a background in both psychology and biology, first got into animal behavior while studying mate choice as an undergrad. She later became interested in sound - especially how it plays into animal communication.



That led to earlier work on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-male-crickets-go-silent-how-females-adapt-and-respond/">crickets</a>. Like treefrogs, male crickets use sound to attract mates. A study on cricket mating showed that noisy environments might either block females from hearing calls or make them too confused to pick. It was hard to tell which was causing the problem.



“During that study, it became clear that our work was consistent with both the possibility that many simultaneous cricket songs created noise that made it hard for females to hear, and the possibility that the females were experiencing choice overload,” Tanner said. “Our current work looks to disentangle those ideas.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-average-becomes-good-enough">When average becomes good enough</h2>



The research adds a new layer to how scientists think about evolution. Normally, stronger signals - like a faster frog call - are expected to win out and spread through the population over time. 



But if crowded conditions keep females from consistently picking the top performers, evolution slows down. Mediocre traits stick around longer.



That changes the math for survival. In nature, being the best isn’t always enough - and sometimes, being just okay is good enough, especially if the crowd’s loud and the choices are many.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2025.0585" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Frogs settle for average mates when dating gets too noisy

If you’re a male gray frog trying to find a mate, you’d better have a fast and steady call. That’s what female treefrogs usually go for. But when the crowd gets loud and chaotic, things change. The males that don’t sound all that great? They suddenly have a shot. In quiet situations where females only hear two males at once, their preferences are clear. They go for the one with the sharper, more rhythmic call. But when four or even eight males are calling at once, things...

Freshwater fish populations near the poles are outperforming their equatorial counterparts due to climate change. 



Warming temperatures are creating new habitats at the poleward edges of their ranges, enabling large-bodied migratory species such as Atlantic salmon to thrive.



In a recent study, researchers from the University of Bristol analyzed a dataset that included over 10,000 time series and more than 600 freshwater fish species. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-are-fish-responding-to-climate-change">How are fish responding to climate change?</h2>



The research highlights a crucial aspect of how animals are responding to climate change, which has driven broad-scale distribution shifts in marine and terrestrial species. 



However, the responses of freshwater species have remained less explored.



"Understanding how the population abundance of freshwater species has responded climatic warming over recent decades is important for predicting how they are likely to be impacted by future conditions," wrote the study authors. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-driven-shift-in-fish-habitats">Climate-driven shift in fish habitats</h2>



"A common <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-oceans-seas-lakes-are-losing-their-ability-to-support-most-types-of-fish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological response</a> to climatic warming in marine and terrestrial habitats is that populations are increasing at the poleward side of species ranges, as new environments are generated, and populations are declining at the equatorward side of species ranges, as conditions become too warm," explained study co-author Professor Martin Genner.



Using a multicontinental database, the researchers linked riverine fish population abundance data from 1958 to 2019 with temperature records. 



The results showed that across sampled locations, water temperatures increased by an average of 0.21 °C (0.38 °F) per decade. This warming aligns with population trends predicted by climate models, particularly in longer time series spanning over 30 years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-species-benefiting-from-warming-waters">Species benefiting from warming waters</h2>



The study found that fish species with specific traits - larger body sizes, higher trophic levels, river-to-sea migratory behaviors, and widespread distributions - exhibited population growth in response to a warming climate.



Examples include brown trout, European perch, and northern pike. These positive trends were more pronounced in cooler, higher-altitude environments, where warming temperatures create favorable conditions.



"These findings indicate that projected future warming will likely lead to widespread shifts in riverine community structure, including abundance declines at the trailing edge of species distributions," noted Professor Genner.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-beyond-climate-change">Looking beyond climate change</h2>



While climate change is a significant factor, the researchers aim to assess its relative importance compared to other stressors, such as pollution, habitat modification, and fisheries. Understanding these interactions could be key to developing effective conservation strategies.



"Our study has shown how warming waters are impacting freshwater river fishes, that are both rich in biodiversity and are traditionally important to cultures across the world," said Professor Genner.



"We hope that shining a light on how climate change can affect freshwater fishes will lead to positive actions to enable their conservation and sustainable use."



Professor Genner added that we need to learn more about how the impacts of climate change can be lessened through conservation strategies, such as habitat restoration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-ecosystems-from-climate-change">Protecting ecosystems from climate change</h2>



This research highlights the urgency of addressing climate change’s effects on freshwater fish and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aquaculture-impacts-wild-fish-much-more-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine ecosystems</a>. 



By identifying species and regions most vulnerable to warming, policymakers and conservationists can prioritize actions to preserve biodiversity and maintain the cultural and ecological roles of freshwater fish. 



Habitat restoration and sustainable management practices may play a critical role in mitigating the impacts of a warming world on these vital ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polar-freshwater-fish">Polar freshwater fish</h2>



Polar freshwater fish are uniquely adapted to survive in some of the harshest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-illuminates-fish-interactions-in-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aquatic environments</a> on Earth.



Species like Arctic char, whitefish, and grayling thrive in cold waters, often below 4°C, where oxygen levels remain high and competition is relatively low compared to temperate zones. These fish exhibit specialized physiological traits, such as antifreeze proteins in their blood, which prevent ice crystals from forming and damaging their tissues.



In addition to their physiological adaptations, many polar freshwater fish display behavioral traits that enhance survival. 



For instance, Arctic char can switch between freshwater and saltwater habitats seasonally, optimizing food availability and breeding success. These migratory behaviors also make them key indicators of ecosystem health, as their movements are closely tied to water temperature and ice cover.



Moreover, polar regions often host fewer species compared to more temperate zones, but these ecosystems are vital for global biodiversity. 



The limited number of species creates a fragile food web, where climate-driven changes in fish populations can have cascading effects on predators like birds and mammals, as well as on human communities that rely on these fish for sustenance and cultural practices.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2410355121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

Climate change is pushing freshwater fish toward the poles

Freshwater fish populations near the poles are outperforming their equatorial...

Since 1970, over half of all sharks and rays have vanished from our oceans, according to a new study. This alarming decline in sharks and rays stems primarily from overfishing, which has pushed these ancient and ecologically critical species to the brink. 



However, researchers offer hope with clear strategies to halt further losses and support recovery efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-scale-of-decline">The scale of decline</h2>



The research highlights that overfishing has caused a 50% decline in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deepwater-desperation-the-race-to-save-sharks-and-rays/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chondrichthyan fishes</a> - a group comprising sharks, rays, and chimeras. This diverse group of over 1,199 different species faces increasing threats despite advances in our understanding of these creatures.



"In addition to intentional targeting and bycatch, the threat to sharks is compounded by habitat degradation, climate change, and pollution," noted Professor Colin Simpfendorfer from <a href="https://www.jcu.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Cook University</a> in Australia.



"The result is over one-third of chondrichthyans now face the threat of extinction."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sharks-and-rays-guardians-of-aquatic-ecosystems">Sharks and rays: Guardians of aquatic ecosystems</h2>



The disappearance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unexpected-discovery-large-sharks-are-hunting-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> and rays threatens the balance of aquatic ecosystems worldwide. 



Lead author Professor Nicholas Dulvy from <a href="https://www.sfu.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Simon Fraser University</a> in Canada notes that population declines began in rivers, estuaries, and coastal waters before spreading to open oceans and deep seas. These marine creatures play vital roles in their environments. 



"Sharks and rays are important predators, and their decline disrupts food webs throughout the ocean," said Dr. Nathan Pacoureau from the European Institute for Marine Studies at <a href="https://brest-universite.fr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brest University</a>, France.



"Larger wide-ranging species connect ecosystems. For example, reef sharks transfer nutrients from deeper waters to coral reefs, helping to sustain those ecosystems. Rays are important foraging animals that mix and oxygenate sediments, influencing marine productivity and carbon storage," explained Pacoureau.



Without these keystone species, aquatic ecosystems could face severe disruption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-overfishing-on-sharks">Impacts of overfishing on sharks</h2>



Overfishing - the practice of catching fish faster than they can reproduce - remains the leading driver of shark and ray declines.



The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (<a href="https://www.fao.org/home/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNFAO</a>) reports that one-third of the world’s fisheries are operating beyond sustainable limits, and the number of overfished stocks has tripled in the last 50 years.



Bycatch, the unintended capture of non-target species, exacerbates the crisis. Sharks and rays frequently end up as unintended victims in nets meant for other fish, which compounds their population losses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recovery-from-overfishing">Recovery from overfishing</h2>



Despite these challenges, the solutions for addressing the decline are straightforward. 



"Nations can reduce the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reef-sharks-are-abandoning-their-homes-due-to-ocean-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinction risk</a> by lowering fishing pressure to sustainable levels, strengthening fisheries governance, and eliminating harmful subsidies," said Professor Simpfendorfer.



Some regions have already made progress. Countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States, and parts of Europe and South Africa have implemented science-based limits on fishing catches. 



These measures include efforts to reduce bycatch and protect critical habitats, thus offering a glimmer of hope for chondrichthyan recovery.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-sharks-and-rays-from-overfishing">Protecting sharks and rays from overfishing</h2>



The study highlights the urgency of collective action to safeguard these ancient species. Science-driven policies and international cooperation are vital to ensuring sharks and rays do not slip further toward extinction. 



By addressing overfishing and habitat degradation for sharks, humanity can help restore balance to marine ecosystems and protect these vital guardians of the ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-sharks-and-rays">More about sharks and rays</h2>



Sharks and rays belong to the group of cartilaginous fishes, known scientifically as Chondrichthyes. 



Unlike bony fishes, their skeletons consist entirely of cartilage, making them lighter and more flexible. This evolutionary adaptation has helped them dominate aquatic ecosystems for over 400 million years.



Sharks, ranging from the tiny dwarf lantern shark to the massive whale shark, exhibit incredible diversity. Rays, their flat-bodied relatives, thrive in environments from shallow waters to the deep ocean floors.



Their unique physiology, including electrosensory systems, allows them to detect prey hidden under sand or at great distances from them.



Reproductive strategies among these species are equally fascinating. Some, like the great white shark, give birth to live young, while others, such as skates, lay egg cases commonly called "mermaids' purses." These long gestation periods and low offspring numbers make them highly vulnerable to overfishing and habitat changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-significance-in-coastal-communities">Cultural significance in coastal communities </h2>



Beyond their ecological importance, sharks and rays hold significant cultural importance in many coastal communities around the world, often symbolizing power, protection, and the balance of nature.



Sharks and rays are also a major component of traditional diets in these communities, highlighting the need to balance conservation with livelihoods that are dependent on sustainable fishing.



The research was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adn1477">Science</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Overfishing has caused a 50% decline in sharks and rays

Since 1970, over half of all sharks and rays have...

Researchers have recently revealed new insights into how brittle stars can reversibly adjust the pliability of their tissues. This discovery could ultimately pave the way for innovative biomaterials with applications in human health.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-materials-for-regenerative-medicine-nbsp">New materials for regenerative medicine&nbsp;</h2>



The study, led by Denis Jacob Machado, an assistant professor at the <a href="https://www.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill</a>, and Vladimir Mashanov, staff scientist at the <a href="https://school.wakehealth.edu/research/institutes-and-centers/wake-forest-institute-for-regenerative-medicine" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine</a>, focuses on mutable collagenous tissue (MCT) and the molecular mechanisms enabling these transformations.



The findings, detailed in an article published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s12864-024-10926-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMC Genomics</a>, reveal 16 potential MCT modulator genes.&nbsp;



This work marks a significant step toward understanding how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-stars-may-actually-be-walking-heads-with-no-bodies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">echinoderms</a> rapidly and dramatically modify their collagenous tissue, a process that could inspire new materials for regenerative medicine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-brittle-stars-respond-to-threats">How brittle stars respond to threats</h2>



The researchers utilized cutting-edge methods, including transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and RNA sequencing, to study Ophiomastix wendtii, a brittle star known for its remarkable ability to alter its tissue properties.&nbsp;



“We’re uncovering the precise instructions that DNA sends to the cell - what it’s saying, when it’s saying it, and in what quantities,” said Machado. He compared this process to decoding commands from a ship’s captain that direct the crew to accomplish specific tasks.



This advanced analysis provides insights into how echinoderms such as brittle stars adapt their tissues to environmental stressors.&nbsp;



These animals can shed body parts or modify tissue rigidity in response to threats, offering a fascinating model for studying MCT and its potential biomedical applications.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brittle-stars-and-tissue-adaptation">Brittle stars and tissue adaptation</h2>



Echinoderms like brittle stars and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-cucumbers-protect-coral-reefs-from-disease-and-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea cucumbers</a> possess a unique ability to rapidly adapt their collagenous tissues. This capability allows them to detach limbs to escape predators or withstand environmental changes.&nbsp;



The research team focused on juxtaligamental cells (JLCs), which play a critical role in controlling MCT. By comparing tissue regions rich in JLCs to areas without them, the experts identified key genomic relationships and isolated the role of these cells in regulating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-dinosaur-collagen-survived-the-test-of-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">collagen</a> transformations.



The study highlights how brittle stars, as non-model organisms, present unique challenges for research. They lack the standardized protocols available for mice and other common model organisms, requiring researchers to develop innovative approaches.&nbsp;



Despite these hurdles, their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brittle-stars-have-no-brain-but-still-manage-to-learn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unique biology</a> makes them an ideal subject for studying tissue adaptability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paving-the-way-for-smart-biomaterials">Paving the way for smart biomaterials</h2>



One of the study’s most exciting outcomes is its potential to inspire the development of dynamic biomaterials.&nbsp;



The researchers have already filed a provisional patent for a collagen-based biomaterial capable of changing its pliability. Machado envisions this material as a “collagen matrix that can change its pliability to become as soft or rigid as we want.”&nbsp;



Such a material could revolutionize medicine, serving as a rapid-response surgical adhesive or even “gelatinous origami” to replace traditional stents.



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



The research revealed 16 candidate genes that regulate MCT, offering a roadmap for future investigations.&nbsp;



Using advanced techniques like in situ hybridization (ISH) and RNA interference (RNAi), the team plans to explore how turning off these genes affects tissue pliability.&nbsp;



“Confirming the role of the identified candidate genes in controlling MCT tensile strength will open up a wide range of new possibilities for both fundamental biology and biomedicine,” the researchers said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gene-expression-in-various-tissues">Gene expression in various tissues</h2>



The study represents a fusion of disciplines, combining bioinformatics, advanced microscopy, and biological experimentation.&nbsp;



The team, which includes experts from UNC Charlotte and Wake Forest, worked collaboratively to design experiments and analyze data. First author Reyhaneh Nouri, a Ph.D. student in UNC Charlotte's Department of Bioinformatics and Genomics, played a key role in the project.



The researchers examined gene expression in different tissue regions of the brittle star, focusing on the inner arm core, which is rich in JLCs. They compared these findings to regions like the stomach, which lacks JLCs, providing a detailed map of how specific genes influence tissue adaptation.&nbsp;



The study offers the first attempt to identify echinoderm-specific MCT genes using advanced sequencing and gene expression analysis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transforming-medicine-with-biomaterials">Transforming medicine with biomaterials</h2>



The implications of this research extend far beyond brittle star biology. Understanding the molecular mechanisms behind MCT could lead to transformative advancements in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.&nbsp;



The potential applications include faster <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healing-chronic-wounds-with-gold-and-red-wine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wound healing</a>, advanced surgical adhesives, and innovative materials for organ repair.



The researchers emphasized the importance of their findings for future innovation.&nbsp;



They noted that the evolution and molecular mechanisms of the echinoderm MCT could inform the design of new collagen-based biomaterials with dynamic, tunable mechanical properties for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-vision-for-the-future">A vision for the future</h2>



This study lays the groundwork for future research into MCT and its regulation. By identifying the genes responsible for tissue pliability, the team aims to develop biomaterials that can adapt to different conditions, offering unprecedented flexibility and functionality in medical applications.



“It starts with you daring to look into something completely new without knowing if it’s going to work or not,” said Machado, highlighting the innovative spirit driving their work.&nbsp;



With continued research and collaboration, these findings could revolutionize medicine, unlocking new possibilities for treating injuries, repairing tissues, and advancing human health.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Secrets of brittle star tissue could transform regenerative medicine

Researchers have recently revealed new insights into how brittle stars...

"Man's best friend" takes on a new meaning in the field of medicine. Recent research findings suggest that dogs can effectively sniff out bladder cancer in other canines.



This discovery comes from a study conducted by researchers at the University of Bristol.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-training-dogs-for-cancer-detection">Training dogs for cancer detection</h2>



Three specially trained dogs - Kizzy, a chocolate working cocker spaniel; Jobi, a black cocker spaniel; and Marlow, a black Labrador - played a central role in the study.



The dogs had prior experience detecting human bladder and prostate cancers and were retrained by Medical Detection Dogs (MDD) to identify canine urothelial carcinoma (UC), a common type of bladder cancer in dogs.



The training process involved teaching the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-dog-day-honoring-mans-best-friend/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> to sniff urine samples attached to metal stands in MDD’s training room. The dogs displayed indication behaviors - such as sitting, staring, or standing - to signal cancer-positive samples.



Rewards included food and play, which kept the training engaging for these canines.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-sniffing-out-cancer">Dogs sniffing out cancer</h2>



The findings reveal that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-and-dogs-were-bonding-much-earlier-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">canine</a> bladder cancer emits a distinct smell that trained dogs can detect non-invasively. 



The detection rate reached up to 90% sensitivity (the rate at which the dogs correctly identified cancer-positive samples), and up to 95% specificity, meaning they accurately ignored cancer-free samples. 



These results highlight the remarkable accuracy of this method.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-of-traditional-diagnosis">Challenges of traditional diagnosis</h2>



Bladder cancer accounts for nearly 2% of all reported canine cancers, with about one in four dogs developing cancer in their lifetime. 



Urothelial carcinoma often mimics symptoms of other urinary tract disorders, like infections or bladder stones, making diagnosis challenging. 



Additionally, traditional diagnostic methods like urine sampling via cystocentesis carry risks, such as tumor seeding, and definitive diagnosis requires invasive biopsy procedures. 



These factors can delay treatment, leaving the disease to progress.



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



"We are delighted that [the dogs] were so successful at finding the odor of bladder cancer as it is a difficult disease to diagnose using traditional methods and unpleasant and intrusive for canine patients," noted Claire Guest, CEO and Co-Founder of Medical Detection Dogs.



 "There is great potential value in a new, early, cheap, rapid, and non-invasive diagnostic test which could lead to opportunities for earlier intervention."



The study also suggests that these trained <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chernobyl-dogs-are-rapidly-evolving-in-strange-ways-due-to-nuclear-radiation-exposure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> could provide a faster, more comfortable alternative to traditional diagnostics. 



This could enable earlier treatment for affected dogs, improving outcomes and quality of life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-are-highly-effective-for-cancer-diagnosis">Dogs are highly effective for cancer diagnosis</h2>



"This study adds to the growing body of evidence which shows dogs are highly effective at detecting odors from changes linked to health in both humans and canines," noted Dr. Nicola Rooney from <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/vet-school/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bristol Veterinary School</a>.



"The dogs involved with the study demonstrated a sensitivity superior to cytology of a free catch sample and similar to the BRAF test," added Isabelle Desmas-Bazelle, who led the study at <a href="https://www.vetspecialists.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Davies Veterinary Specialists</a>.



It suggests cancer cells have a unique odor pattern, possibly via secretion of volatile organic chemicals. 



"This exciting research could lead to the development of an electronic nose as an additional diagnostic test for UC," added Desmas-Bazelle, highlighting the potential for technological advancements. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-non-invasive-cancer-detection">Non-invasive cancer detection</h2>



This study identifies the potential of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-feel-our-emotions-through-our-heart-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> as more than companions. Their exceptional olfactory abilities could transform veterinary diagnostics.



While traditional methods remain crucial, integrating canine detection and advancements like electronic noses could revolutionize how we diagnose and treat diseases like urothelial carcinoma in dogs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-and-disease-detection">Dogs and disease detection</h2>



Dogs have shown incredible potential in detecting various diseases apart from cancer.



For instance, trained dogs can identify diabetes by sensing hypoglycemic episodes through changes in a person’s scent. Similarly, they can detect the presence of malaria by sniffing worn socks from infected individuals. 



Dogs have also demonstrated the ability to identify neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and certain bacterial infections like Clostridium difficile.



These skills rely on their acute olfactory senses, which can detect volatile organic compounds associated with different diseases. 



Their application in real-world medical diagnostics is growing, and provides a non-invasive and rapid method to detect conditions that often require complex testing.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://veterinaryoncology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s44356-024-00012-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Veterinary Oncology</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Trained dogs can detect cancer in other dogs, as well as in people

"Man's best friend" takes on a new meaning in the...

At the age of 74, parenting can be quite the adventure. But for one venerable albatross named Wisdom, it seems the journey is just beginning anew. 



Surprisingly, Wisdom is now in the process of becoming a mother yet again - a feat that sets her apart as the oldest known bird in the world to breed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-windy-home-of-the-oldest-bird">Windy home of the oldest bird</h2>



The scene takes place on Midway Atoll, near Hawaii. Each year, this location brims with the arrival of multitudes of spectacular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-are-moving-north-and-breeding-earlier-in-a-changing-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seabirds</a> known as Laysan albatrosses.



Among them has been Wisdom, returning annually to nest. For decades, she was inseparable from her partner. They were monogamous, much like the rest of their kind. Over the course of her life, Wisdom has laid over 50 eggs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wisdom-s-new-lease-on-life">Wisdom's new lease on life</h2>



In an unexpected turn of events, Wisdom's partner sadly vanished. Unfazed by this change, the elderly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strong-winds-make-it-difficult-for-albatrosses-to-feed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">albatross</a> adapted and started to court other males. 



Wisdom's current visit to the atoll was marked by her laying another egg, and she has a new partner with whom to share the incubation duties.



"We are optimistic that the egg will hatch," expressed Jonathan Plissner, a supervisory wildlife biologist at <a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/midway-atoll" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wisdom-the-world-s-oldest-breeding-bird">Wisdom: The world's oldest breeding bird</h2>



This new chapter in Wisdom's life was beautifully captured in photographs and video by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.



They depict the excited parents-to-be, seemingly communicating with their egg, before the male takes over incubation duty.



Tagged and identified back in 1956 when she was laying her first egg at the refuge, Wisdom was no less than five years old at the time - the age at which Laysan albatrosses reach sexual maturity.



Taking these facts into account, it is clear that Wisdom is at least 74 years old.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-incredible-life-cycle-of-albatrosses">Incredible life cycle of albatrosses</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/albatrosses-use-infrasound-for-long-distance-navigation-study-reveals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Albatrosses</a> have long been central to seafaring lore, and were famously featured in Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner."



These majestic birds symbolize freedom, endurance, and the mysterious connection between nature and sailors. Today, the story of Wisdom, the world’s oldest known wild bird, adds a modern layer to their legendary status.



At over 70 years old, Wisdom continues to defy the odds, returning each year to raise chicks and inspire awe. Her resilience highlights the incredible life cycle of albatrosses and serves as a reminder of the need to protect these iconic birds and their ocean habitats for future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-love-and-challenges-of-albatrosses">Life, love, and challenges of albatrosses</h2>



Laysan albatrosses are named after Laysan Island, one of their primary nesting sites within the Hawaiian Archipelago.



These birds exhibit incredible site fidelity, often returning to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oldest-known-wild-albatross-mother/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">breed</a> at the exact location where they were hatched. The species plays a critical role in the marine ecosystem, acting as indicators of ocean health due to their reliance on marine food sources like squid and fish.



These albatrosses are known for their elaborate courtship dances, which involve a series of coordinated movements, calls, and gestures. The ritual helps strengthen the bond between mating pairs. 



Laysan albatrosses also possess a unique adaptation - a specialized gland located above their eyes that helps them excrete excess salt from the seawater they drink, thus enabling them to thrive in their marine habitat.



Despite their resilience, Laysan albatross populations face threats from plastic pollution, longline fishing, and invasive predators at nesting sites. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-extinctions-shatter-the-harmonious-balance-of-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Conservation efforts</a>, such as habitat restoration and reducing bycatch in fishing operations, are crucial for ensuring their survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extraordinary-journeys-of-albatrosses">Extraordinary journeys of albatrosses</h2>



Laysan albatrosses are quite remarkable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shrinking-sea-ice-makes-it-harder-for-seabirds-to-find-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creatures</a>. They have a wingspan stretching up to 80 inches and can travel over 930 miles in search of food.



Not only that, there are over a dozen species of albatross spanning locations from the Southern Hemisphere to the North Pacific Ocean.



Birds' lifespans can differ considerably based on their species. The smaller ones tend to reach only two to three years in age, whereas seabirds such as albatrosses and penguins can live up to 40 or 50 years.



Wisdom's age, however, surpasses all of these, making her an exceptional figure in the natural world.



Image Credit: Keegan Rankin/USFWS



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

World’s oldest wild bird is expecting again at 74

At the age of 74, parenting can be quite the...

Friendships are a cornerstone of human social dynamics, often influenced by shared personalities and mutual interests. However, how animals like buffalos choose their companions remains less understood. 



A new study by researchers at City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) sheds light on this question. The team examined a unique free-ranging feral population of water buffalo on Lantau Island in Hong Kong.



The findings reveal that spatial proximity is a strong indicator of buffalo friendships, influenced by certain shared personality traits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-buffalo-friendships-and-personalities">Buffalo friendships and personalities</h2>



"Our research provides evidence that friendships among water <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-animal-day-2024-building-a-legacy-of-compassion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">buffalo</a> can form among individuals with similar behaviors. These findings offer valuable insights into the evolution of friendships," said Dr. Debottam Bhattacharjee, a Postdoc in CityUHK’s <a href="https://www.cityu.edu.hk/ph/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health</a>.



"Personalities and social relationships will be potentially important for understanding how buffalo use their habitats during different seasons (wet and dry) of the year with fluctuating food resources."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-buffalo-friends-and-spatial-associations">Buffalo friends and spatial associations </h2>



The study reveals that female buffalo with similar personalities tend to exhibit higher spatial associations. These individuals spend more time in close proximity during activities like foraging, collective movement, and resting.



The observational studies focused on female buffalo who displayed similar personality traits. These traits, described as repeatable behavioral variables, included social tension, vigilance, and general dominance.



Professor Alan McElligott, a co-author of the study and an expert on animal behavior and welfare at CityUHK, explained how these traits were assessed:



<ul>
<li>Social tension:&nbsp;How buffalo approached and avoided each other.</li>



<li>Vigilance:&nbsp;How they sat and moved around.</li>



<li>General dominance:&nbsp;How they responded to others in the herd.</li>
</ul>



These traits were predictive of the duration and quality of their interactions, offering significant insights into the formation and maintenance of buffalo <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-friendships-social-bonds-evolve-over-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">friendships</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-animal-well-being">Improving animal well-being</h2>



The implications of this research extend beyond academic curiosity. Studies have shown that strong social associations correlate with better health, well-being, and survival rates. 



This study contributes to the growing body of evidence that human-like friendships can occur in various species. Like human relationships, these animal friendships can be stable, enduring, and transcend kinship bonds.



The researchers emphasize the importance of studying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/old-and-wise-animals-are-essential-for-the-survival-of-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social bonds</a> in feral buffalo for two reasons. 



First, previous research - mostly conducted in captivity - has highlighted buffalo’s social complexity, marked by affiliated behaviors and dominance hierarchies.



Second, understanding these behaviors in natural settings provides valuable insights for improving the welfare and health of buffalo populations.



"Moreover, understanding social behaviors and friendships of group living animals like buffalo improves welfare with broader implications for maintaining optimal health of those within the wider population," noted Professor Kate Flay from CityUHK’s <a href="https://www.cityu.edu.hk/pg/department/vcs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences</a>.



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



The study highlights the importance of investigating preferential social bonds among feral buffalo. According to the CityUHK scientists, this research has implications for conservation and welfare strategies.



By examining how close social relationships affect buffalo populations, researchers can develop more sustainable approaches to animal welfare and conservation, especially for species facing threats.



The findings also suggest that these insights might apply to other species, paving the way for a deeper understanding of social dynamics in animals.



The major takeaway? Friendships in the animal kingdom are not just fascinating but also crucial for survival and ecological balance. The buffalo of Lantau Island are more than just majestic creatures; they are a testament to the power of connection in the wild.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-buffalo-friendships">Benefits of buffalo friendships</h2>



The formation of buffalo friendships extends beyond personality traits to include environmental and seasonal factors. 



Some studies have noted that access to shared resources, such as water and shade, often dictated which buffalo spent time together. In drought-prone periods, buffalo formed stronger bonds with those who exhibited cooperative behaviors, such as sharing resting spots or water access.



Interestingly, younger buffalo were observed mimicking the social patterns of older, more dominant individuals, suggesting that friendship behaviors might also have a learned component. This learning could play a role in how buffalo integrate into their herds and establish their social standing.



Another noteworthy aspect is the role of vocal communication. While the study primarily focused on spatial proximity, field observations revealed that buffalo frequently used low-frequency calls to maintain contact with their preferred companions when separated by distance. These calls helped reinforce bonds and facilitated regrouping.



The influence of predators also shaped buffalo friendships. Herd members who maintained strong friendships were more likely to engage in collective vigilance, enhancing their chances of detecting and escaping threats. This highlights the adaptive advantages of forming close <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/older-griffon-vultures-have-fewer-friends-with-stronger-bonds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social bonds</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/iscience/fulltext/S2589-0042(24)02644-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iScience</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Buffalos build friendships based on similar personality traits

Friendships are a cornerstone of human social dynamics, often influenced...

The plague, in its historical context, has been a merciless killer. In the mid-1300s, it was famously known as the “Black Death,” which took the lives of nearly 50 million Europeans.



Today, the United States has an average of seven human plague cases annually, thanks to advancements in sanitation, public health measures, and antibiotics.



However, the plague still continues to haunt prairie dogs and other rodents, especially in the western half of the United States.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rodents-carriers-of-the-plague">Rodents: Carriers of the plague</h2>



Over time, scientists have been uncovering the role that animals, primarily <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-rodent-borne-diseases-spill-over-into-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rodents</a>, play in disease transmission. Recently, researchers at the <a href="https://missouri.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Missouri</a> made a breakthrough in understanding the mode of disease spread. 



The research was led by Deborah Anderson, a professor in Mizzou’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Her team discovered the disturbing mode of transmission -&nbsp;from&nbsp;mother&nbsp;flea to offspring.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animals-impacted-by-the-plague">Animals impacted by the plague</h2>



Animals, specifically <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bald-eagles-dont-only-eat-fish-as-prairie-dogs-will-attest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prairie dogs</a>, have been significantly impacted by the plague. Entire colonies have been decimated, which consequently affects the broader ecosystem.



For instance, the black-footed ferret, one of the most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/its-now-or-never-for-madagascars-endangered-mammals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endangered mammals</a> globally, experienced an 80% population decline in 2009 due to the plague. Prairie dogs are their primary food source.



The ongoing spread of the plague by rodents amplifies the need for expanded research in this field to safeguard both animal and human lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-infectious-disease-research">Infectious disease research </h2>



Following 9/11, federal funding was directed toward the development of bioterrorism defense research facilities within public universities. As a result, the Laboratory for Infectious Disease Research (LIDR) was built on Mizzou’s campus.



This state-of-the-art facility features a Biosecurity Level 3 classification, making Mizzou one of only 12 universities equipped to safely investigate treatable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-heightens-risk-of-most-infectious-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pathogenic diseases</a>.



Anderson noted that few places could support her infectious disease research as well as Mizzou does.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-need-for-continued-plague-research">The need for continued plague research</h2>



Mizzou’s commitment to combating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-remains-a-global-health-emergency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global health</a> challenges is demonstrated by their cutting-edge research.



The symbiotic relationship between the health of people, animals, and the environment is at the core of Mizzou’s research philosophy. 



This approach, known as One Health, places importance on the study of animals, given that it can help minimize human exposure to infectious diseases. 



For example, the more we understand about the plague-transmission habits of fleas, the better equipped we are to monitor the well-being of wildlife ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-safe-research-environment">A safe research environment</h2>



The safe execution of this research was made possible by Mizzou's stringent safety protocols at the LIDR. The environment encourages researchers to think broadly and take on societal challenges securely.



Anderson expressed gratitude for being able to work with bacteria safely and advocated for continued dedication to such research.



Overall, through the invaluable discoveries made by Deborah Anderson and her team at Mizzou, we continue to decode the intricacies of the plague, helping protect both humans and wildlife.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ripple-effect-of-the-plague-on-ecosystems">Ripple effect of the plague on ecosystems</h2>



The impact of the plague extends far beyond individual animals or species, triggering cascading effects across entire ecosystems.



Prairie dogs, often seen as key species in their habitats, play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of grassland ecosystems. When colonies are decimated by the plague, the consequences reverberate through the food chain.



Predators like the black-footed ferret rely heavily on prairie dogs not only as a primary food source but also for shelter within their burrows. 



The loss of prairie dog populations disrupts this interdependence, further endangering ferrets and impacting other species that share the habitat.



In addition, the reduction of prairie dog activity influences plant growth, soil composition, and overall biodiversity within these regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-safeguarding-the-balance-of-ecosystems">Safeguarding the balance of ecosystems</h2>



Research into plague transmission helps safeguard this delicate balance, ensuring that ecosystems remain resilient against such biological disruptions.



Through deeper understanding and proactive management of disease dynamics, researchers can not only prevent outbreaks but also promote a healthier co-existence between humans, animals, and the environments they inhabit.



This broader ecological perspective highlights the importance of studying diseases like the plague from a holistic standpoint, tying together conservation, public health, and environmental sustainability.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51668-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

The modern-day plague: Rodents, fleas, and their impact on wildlife

The plague, in its historical context, has been a merciless...

The discovery of a unique relationship between insects and plants has solved a longstanding mystery. For over a century, botanists have wondered how the tiny seeds of Balanophora were dispersed, and who the pollinators were - considering their less-than-attractive appearance and yeasty smell.



Researchers at Kobe University have revealed that insect species, such as ants and crickets, can both pollinate and disperse seeds for plants. This highlights the remarkable role that insects play in our ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-balanophora-s-reproduction">Mystery of Balanophora’s reproduction</h2>



Deep within the moist, shaded understories of the subtropical forests of Shimoshima Island in Japan, parasitic plants known as Balanophora thrive. 



These plants, which depend on the roots of other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-boost-plant-evolution-in-surprising-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> for sustenance, have puzzled botanists. Among them, Balanophora subcupularis stands out for its dull colors and yeasty smell, contrasting with its bright red relatives that attract birds and mammals for seed dispersal.



Traditionally, researchers suggested that these plants relied on wind to disperse their seeds. However, the windless nature of these forest understories made this hypothesis unlikely. 



Moreover, the mechanisms of pollination for B. subcupularis remained unclear, as its unremarkable appearance seemed to dissuade typical pollinators like bees.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-relying-on-insects-for-pollination">Plants relying on insects for pollination</h2>



<a href="https://www.kobe-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe University</a> botanist Suetsugu Kenji, who specializes in understanding the interactions between parasitic plants&nbsp;and their surrounding ecosystems, took on the challenge of uncovering the secrets of B. subcupularis.



Suetsugu and his team dedicated over 100 hours to observing the plants and capturing tens of thousands of automated nighttime photographs during the flowering and fruiting stages. 



These observations were complemented by animal exclusion experiments and seed feeding trials to confirm which animals contributed to pollination and seed dispersal.



The results, published in two consecutive papers in the journal&nbsp;Ecology, revealed a surprising truth: ants and camel crickets are the primary pollinators of B. subcupularis. These insects, drawn by the plant’s pollen and nectar, also consume the fleshy seed-bearing leaves, effectively dispersing its seeds.



"It is well known that many plants rely on insects for pollination, although it’s rare for ants and crickets. Also, many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/herbicides-are-disrupting-plant-insect-interactions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> use birds and mammals to distribute their fruits, and again it’s very unusual that crickets or other tiny arthropods take over this role," noted Suetsugu.



"Even more striking, it is very rare for the same animal to perform both functions, and it is unique that the same invertebrates do so."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insects-dual-role-in-plant-pollination">Insects' dual role in plant pollination</h2>



Suetsugu believes the dual role of ants and crickets is influenced by ecological factors. 



"B. subcupularis blooms late in the year when many typical pollinators, such as bees, are less active. In addition, our study site is a small island at the northern edge of the plant’s distribution, which might contribute to the scarcity of pollinators and seed dispersers," explained Suetsugu.



The insects’ involvement in both pollination and seed dispersal likely evolved due to these environmental constraints, where traditional agents like birds, mammals, and bees are scarce. This rare adaptation underscores the resilience and ingenuity of nature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-plant-insect-relationships">Significance of plant-insect relationships</h2>



The findings extend beyond the reproduction of B. subcupularis. 



"This underscores the importance of invertebrates in plant reproduction and encourages us to look deeper into how these relationships evolve and what environmental factors drive such unique adaptations. More practically, our findings also contribute to conservation strategies for rare and endangered plants like Balanophora subcupularis," Suetsugu noted.



"Understanding their reliance on specific invertebrates for both pollination and seed dispersal helps inform habitat preservation efforts and the management of invertebrate populations, which are crucial for these plants’ survival."



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



This remarkable research on plant and insect interaction illuminates the intricate and often overlooked roles of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-leaf-eating-insects-have-a-huge-impact-on-forests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invertebrates in ecosystems</a>.



The study calls for greater attention to the conservation of such species, which play vital roles in maintaining biodiversity. By protecting the habitats and populations of these tiny but significant creatures, we can ensure the survival of plants like B. subcupularis and the ecosystems they support.



The story of ants and crickets aiding Balanophora subcupularis highlights a rare and remarkable partnership, providing a glimpse into nature’s adaptability and interconnectedness. 



As researchers like Suetsugu continue to unveil these secrets, the importance of conserving even the smallest actors in our ecosystems becomes undeniably clear.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ecy.4465" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology</a>.



Image Credit: Hashiwaki Hiromu



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

Parasitic plant has some unlikely allies for pollination and seed dispersal

The discovery of a unique relationship between insects and plants...

Animals, much like humans, accumulate knowledge and wisdom as they age. A growing body of research highlights the profound impact that older animals have on their groups and ecosystems. 



However, human activities, especially hunting and fishing, are threatening this invaluable resource, pushing many species toward instability and decline.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animals-that-defy-time">Animals that defy time</h2>



Some species achieve astonishing lifespans. Bigmouth buffalo fish can live up to 127 years, Greenland sharks can reach 392 years, and certain sponges live for over 10,000 years.



These extended lifespans allow the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-conservation-day-2024-saving-species-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creatures</a> to gather knowledge about their environments and pass it on to younger generations.



In a recent paper published in&nbsp;the journal Science, researchers noted that Earth's old animals are in a state of decline.



The analysis, which was based on data from over 9,000 peer-reviewed papers, warns that the few animals reaching old age are often targeted due to their size, unique features, or reproductive potential.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-longevity-conservation-for-old-animals">Longevity conservation for old animals</h2>



Eliminating the largest and most experienced animals has significant consequences for social structures and group survival. Keller Kopf, lead researcher and ecologist at <a href="https://www.cdu.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Darwin University</a>, advocates for "longevity conservation," which emphasizes protecting older individuals. 



"That simplistic idea about old individuals not being important for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-animal-day-2024-building-a-legacy-of-compassion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a>, or for environments, is really not the full story," said Kopf.



He and his co-authors argue that old animals play vital roles in biodiversity and ecosystem health, and therefore need targeted protection policies and management strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-knowledge-in-animal-populations">Cultural knowledge in animal populations</h2>



Older animals often act as reservoirs of cultural knowledge, maintaining stability within their groups. 



Older female elephants, for example, possess a "social memory" that helps identify friends and foes, detect dangers like lions, and guide the group to water sources during droughts. Similarly, postmenopausal orcas excel at locating salmon for their pods.



The removal of older individuals destabilizes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-got-their-colors-150-million-years-before-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a>. This loss of cultural transmission explains why some fish populations fail to recover, even after fishing bans are implemented.



"The trouble is once culture is lost, it is very hard to regain," said Kopf.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grandmother-hypothesis-and-group-stability">Grandmother hypothesis and group stability</h2>



Older mammals often contribute significantly to the survival of their offspring and subsequent generations - a phenomenon known as the "grandmother hypothesis."



While their reproductive output declines with age, their knowledge and assistance in raising young bolster group success. 



For instance, deep-sea corals, which can live for thousands of years, provide critical habitats for marine life. Furthermore, older birds often ensure better care for their offspring.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fisheries-and-collapse-of-collective-memory">Fisheries and collapse of collective memory</h2>



The targeting of older fish in fisheries has dire consequences for species survival. Culum Brown, a fish biologist at Macquarie University, emphasizes that older fish carry essential cultural knowledge. 



"The key thing here is that many important behaviors, such as migration to breeding and feeding grounds, are transmitted socially in lots of species of fish," said Brown.



"Imagine a fish swimming around in the ocean. The chances of finding the best feeding or breeding locations by chance is virtually zero." Losing older fish disrupts these learned behaviors, leading to potential population collapse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wisdom-and-social-learning-in-conservation">Wisdom and social learning in conservation</h2>



Kopf’s research underscores the importance of "cultural transmission" in animals. This concept acknowledges that animals possess culture and that older individuals transmit critical social learning. 



The accumulated knowledge of older individuals, such as where to locate scarce resources or find shelter, becomes irreplaceable in challenging environments.



More conservationists now recognize the need to preserve social learning and cultural knowledge within animal populations. 



"A term that has definitely pretty much only been used for people in the past is ‘wisdom,’ and we’ve used that term - wise - in the title (of the study)," said Kopf. This wisdom, stored in older animals, often holds the key to a species’ survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tragic-loss-of-wisdom-and-experience">Tragic loss of wisdom and experience </h2>



Hunting practices that target older animals exacerbate species’ vulnerabilities.



For instance, older elephants, which play pivotal roles in group dynamics, are systematically hunted for their large tusks and trophy value. 



This loss impacts not just the individuals but also the social fabric of their groups.



Kopf’s findings on the importance of older animals offer a poignant reflection on human society. "It’s made me think a lot more about how we don’t value older people in our society," he noted. 



This neglect of older generations results in a loss of wisdom and experience that could benefit humanity. "What is that doing for the modern world?” said Kopf.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-path-forward">The path forward</h2>



Longevity conservation could provide a solution. This approach involves targeted policies to protect older individuals, recognizing their role in maintaining biodiversity and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-and-possibly-even-insects-have-emotions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem</a> services. 



By prioritizing these efforts, we can safeguard not just individual species but the intricate webs of knowledge and survival strategies they sustain.



Protecting older animals is not just about preserving the past. It is a step toward ensuring the future stability and richness of life on Earth. 



As researchers continue to reveal the critical roles of older animals, it becomes clear that their survival is intertwined with our planet’s ecological health.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.ado2705" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



----

'Old and wise' animals are essential for the survival of species

Animals, much like humans, accumulate knowledge and wisdom as they...

Clothing is more than just fabric and fashion -- our clothes tell stories about who we are as humans, where we've been, and how we've adapted over time. 



But when did our human ancestors first decide that we needed to cover up and wear clothes? 



This question has puzzled scientists for years. David Reed, associate curator of mammals at the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Museum of Natural History</a>, has been digging into this mystery by studying an unlikely source: lice.



Reed's work focuses on these tiny parasites that have been our unwelcome companions for thousands of years. 



"We wanted to find another method for pinpointing when humans might have first started wearing clothing," Reed said. 



"Because they are so well adapted to clothing, we know that body lice or clothing lice almost certainly didn’t exist until clothing came about in humans."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lousy-clues-hidden-in-our-hair">Lousy clues hidden in our hair</h2>



By examining the DNA of modern human lice, Reed and his team have calculated that we started wearing clothes about 170,000 years ago. 



This was a significant technological leap that allowed our ancestors to migrate out of Africa into colder climates. 



"It’s just interesting to think that humans were able to survive in Africa for hundreds of thousands of years without clothing and without body hair," Reed noted. 



"And that it wasn’t until they had clothing that modern humans were then moving out of Africa into other parts of the world."



This research, funded by the National Science Foundation (<a href="https://www.nsf.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NSF</a>), suggests that there was a substantial period when humans roamed the African continent without the warmth of body hair or the protection of garments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lice-humans-and-the-first-clothes">Lice, humans, and the first clothes</h2>



Lice are more than just a nuisance; they're evolutionary markers. Unlike many parasites, lice stick closely to their hosts over long periods. 



This host-parasite relationship allows scientists like Reed to trace changes in human history based on changes in lice populations. 



"We use these lice as a marker, if you will, as a marker of their host’s evolutionary history," he explained.



Interestingly, the study shows that we began wearing clothes around 70,000 years before venturing into colder regions -- a move that started about 100,000 years ago. 



This gap implies that clothing wasn't just a response to colder climates but perhaps a development that had other social or practical motivations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-humans-got-cold-too">Early humans got cold, too</h2>



Back in 2003, geneticist Mark Stoneking from the <a href="https://www.mpg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute</a> estimated that clothing use began around 107,000 years ago. 



Reed's study, however, includes new data and refined calculation methods, offering a different perspective. 



"The new result from this lice study is an unexpectedly early date for clothing, much older than the earliest solid archaeological evidence, but it makes sense," noted Ian Gilligan, a lecturer at <a href="https://www.anu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Australian National University</a>.



The timing of clothing's emergence seems to align with the harsh conditions of the Ice Ages. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disastrous-climate-changes-of-the-last-ice-age-could-happen-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Last Ice Age</a> occurred about 120,000 years ago, but Gilligan suggests that humans started bundling up during the preceding Ice Age, around 180,000 years ago. 



With modern humans appearing about 200,000 years ago, this period was crucial for developing technologies that would ensure our survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-first-humans-needed-clothes-to-survive">First humans needed clothes to survive</h2>



Clothing wasn't the only advancement that helped our ancestors thrive. Reed pointed out that other innovations played a role. 



"The things that may have made us much more successful in that endeavor hundreds of thousands of years later were technologies like the controlled use of fire, the ability to use clothing, new hunting strategies, and new stone tools," he said.



One of the challenges in studying ancient clothing is the lack of physical evidence. Early garments wouldn't have survived millennia buried in the earth. 



Direct evidence like eyed needles only appeared about 40,000 years ago, and tools suitable for scraping animal hides date back to about 780,000 years ago. 



Reed's lice research fills in the gaps, offering a biological clue where archaeological evidence is scarce.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lice-aren-t-often-seen-as-heroes">Lice aren't often seen as heroes</h2>



Collecting lice samples from around the world, including places like homeless shelters and health clinics, was essential for the study's success. 



These parasites provide a unique dataset that can be applied across various fields, from medicine to ecology. 



"It gives the opportunity to study host-switching and invading new hosts, which has everything to do with diseases that do the same thing, like emerging infectious diseases that affect humans," Reed explained.



"From an evolutionary standpoint, it’s interesting to learn about the evolutionary histories of a mammal and its parasite that are so intertwined, so interconnected over vast, long time scales. They just generate such interesting evolutionary questions," he continued.



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



To sum it all up, by examining lice, Reed and his team found clues about when our early human ancestors first decided to wear clothes.



This was a pivotal moment in Earth history that allowed humans to migrate around the globe and adapt to new environments and extreme weather.



If our distant relatives hadn't figured out how to create and wear clothes roughly 170,000 years ago, chances are the species would not have survived, and we wouldn't be here today reading this article.



This fun but important research highlights the fact that humans have always been resourceful, even the very first ones. 



The incremental survival steps they took during the Last Ice Age led to the complex societies we have today. Whether that's a good thing, or a bad thing, will be left open for discussion on another day.



-----



Study co-authors were Melissa Toups, previously with UF and now at Indiana University, Andrew Kitchen, formerly with UF and presently at The Pennsylvania State University, and Jessica Light of Texas A&amp;M University. The researchers completed the five-year project with the help of Reed’s NSF Faculty Early Career Development Award, which is granted to researchers who exemplify the teacher-researcher role.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/mbe/article/28/1/29/984822" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Molecular Biology and Evolution</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

When did early humans first start wearing clothes, and why?

Clothing is more than just fabric and fashion -- our...

Scientists have made a fascinating discovery that rewrites our understanding of early American survival. For the first time, direct evidence shows that ancient Americans, specifically the Clovis people, relied heavily on mammoths and other large animals for food.



This new information about the diet of these early people not only indicates how they expanded across the Americas but also sheds light on the extinction of large, Ice Age animals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-were-the-clovis-people">Who were the Clovis people?</h2>



The Clovis people arrived in North America around 13,000 years ago, likely via the Bering Land Bridge. 



Known for their unique, fluted projectile points, they weren’t just hunters but also <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-used-interesting-technique-hunt-big-animals-clovis-points/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expert toolmakers</a> who used scrapers and blades for diverse survival needs.



Once considered the first inhabitants of the Americas, the Clovis people have now been relegated to a different status as older, pre-Clovis sites have been discovered. 



The decline of the Clovis culture, which is also linked to megafaunal extinctions, suggests that environmental changes and overhunting were involved.



However, their influence persisted and impacted later cultures, with their tools and strategies becoming foundational for subsequent Paleo-Indian populations in North America.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-of-ancient-americans">Diet of ancient Americans</h2>



The study, recently featured in the journal Science Advances, used stable isotope analysis to understand the diet of a Clovis mother from a 13,000-year-old burial site in Montana. 



Before this, researchers inferred <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/homo-juluensis-new-human-species-vanished-just-fifty-thousand-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prehistoric</a> diets by studying tools or animal remains. 



Now, for the first time, scientists have been able to analyze the food consumed by the Clovis people directly, thus offering a more complete picture of their lives.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/mammoth-hunt_ancient-humans_clovis-site_credit-Eric-Carlson_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/mammoth-hunt_ancient-humans_clovis-site_credit-Eric-Carlson_1s.webp" alt="An artist’s reconstruction of Clovis life 13,000 years ago shows the Anzick-1 infant with his mother consuming mammoth meat near a hearth. Another individual crafts tools, including dart projectile points and atlatls. A mammoth butchery area is visible nearby. The scene is inspired by the La Prele mammoth site in Wyoming and set against the Montana landscape where the Anzick burial was discovered. Credit: Eric Carlson" class="wp-image-1952744"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An artist’s reconstruction of Clovis life 13,000 years ago shows the Anzick-1 infant with his mother consuming mammoth meat near a hearth. Another individual crafts tools, including dart projectile points and atlatls. A mammoth butchery area is visible nearby. The scene is inspired by the La Prele mammoth site in Wyoming and set against the Montana landscape where the Anzick burial was discovered. Credit: Eric Carlson</figcaption></figure>



The findings strongly suggest that the Clovis people specialized in hunting large mammals instead of focusing on smaller animals or plants. 



These ancient humans lived in North America when mammoths roamed across both northern Asia and the Americas. 



Mammoths, being abundant and migratory, provided a stable source of fat and protein for the humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-mammoths-in-clovis-expansion">Role of mammoths in Clovis expansion</h2>



"The focus on mammoths helps explain how Clovis people could spread throughout North America and into South America in just a few hundred years," explained co-lead author James Chatters from <a href="https://www.mcmaster.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McMaster University</a>.



This reliance on mammoths allowed the ancient Americans to expand rapidly, as they did not need to depend on local, unpredictable food sources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clovis-technology-and-mammoths">Clovis technology and mammoths</h2>



The study also revealed an interesting link between Clovis technology and their diet.



"What's striking to me is that this confirms a lot of data from other sites. For example, the animal parts left at Clovis sites are dominated by megafauna, and the projectile points are large, affixed to darts, which were efficient distance weapons," said Ben Potter, co-lead author and archaeology professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (<a href="https://www.uaf.edu/uaf/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UAF</a>).



This hunting technology was critical to the Clovis <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-did-early-humans-first-start-wearing-clothes-and-why-parasites-lice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifestyle</a>, enabling them to target massive, dangerous animals like mammoths from a safe distance. 



"Hunting mammoths provided a flexible way of life. It allowed the Clovis people to move into new areas without having to rely on smaller, localized game, which could vary significantly from one region to the next," Potter noted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mammoth-diet-of-ancient-americans">Mammoth diet of ancient Americans </h2>



The research team was able to estimate the Clovis diet by analyzing isotopic data from earlier studies of Anzick-1, an 18-month-old Clovis child. Adjustments for nursing helped researchers model the mother’s diet. 



"Isotopes provide a chemical fingerprint of a consumer's diet and can be compared with those from potential diet items to estimate the proportional contribution of different diet items," explained Mat Wooller, the director of the Alaska Stable Isotope facility at UAF.



The isotopic fingerprint revealed that mammoths made up around 40% of the diet of the Clovis mother, while other large animals, like elk and bison, made up the rest. 



Surprisingly, small mammals contributed very little to her diet. When researchers compared her diet with that of other carnivores from the same era, including American lions and wolves, they found it most closely resembled that of the scimitar cat (Homotherium serum), a specialist mammoth predator.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-ice-age-extinctions">Implications for Ice Age extinctions</h2>



These findings also have implications for understanding the extinction of large animals from the Ice Age. Environmental changes reduced habitats for megafauna, which may have increased their vulnerability to human hunters.



"If the climate is changing in a way that reduces the suitable habitat for some of these megafauna, then it makes them potentially more susceptible to human predation. These people were very effective hunters," noted Potter.



"You had the combination of a highly sophisticated hunting culture - with skills honed over 10,000 years in Eurasia - meeting naïve populations of megafauna under environmental stress," said Chatters.



This mix of experienced hunters and vulnerable prey may have accelerated the extinction of animals like the mammoth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaboration-with-indigenous-communities">Collaboration with Indigenous communities</h2>



Another important aspect of this research on ancient Americans' reliance on mammoths is its emphasis on ethical collaboration with Indigenous communities. 



Potter and Chatters actively engaged with Native Americans in Montana and Wyoming to address their concerns and interests.



"It is important and ethical to consult with Indigenous peoples on questions relating to their heritage,” said the researchers.



The team worked closely with Shane Doyle, executive director of Yellowstone Peoples, who consulted tribal representatives throughout Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho. 



"The response has been one of appreciative consideration and inclusion," noted Doyle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptability-and-hunting-skills-of-early-americans">Adaptability and hunting skills of early Americans</h2>



"I congratulate the team for their astounding discovery about the lifeways of Clovis-era Native people and thank them for being tribally inclusive and respectful throughout their research," said Doyle. 



"This study reshapes our understanding of how Indigenous people across America thrived by hunting one of the most dangerous and dominant animals of the day, the mammoth."



This study not only highlights the incredible adaptability and hunting skills of the Clovis people but also stresses the importance of consulting with Indigenous communities in research involving their ancestors. 



It enriches our understanding of how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stone-tool-flint-discovery-challenges-theory-of-human-cultural-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early humans</a> shaped the environment and their role in the extinction of some of the most iconic creatures of the Ice Age.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adr3814" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Mammoths fed and clothed early Americans, resulting in their extinction

Scientists have made a fascinating discovery that rewrites our understanding...

Next time you spot a Norway rat scurrying around in Central Europe, remember, it's not technically a local. Non-native species, often introduced by humans, are causing a significant decline in indigenous species, globally.



They have been implicated in a colossal 60 percent of worldwide species extinctions in recent years. A new study shows that some non-native species are now endangered in their homeland, and would benefit from conservation measures to protect them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effect-of-globalization-on-species-distribution">Effect of globalization on species distribution</h2>



This intriguing find comes from a collaboration of biologists from the University of Vienna and La Sapienza University in Rome. 



The study, published in the journal Conservation Letters, examines the paradoxical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-conservation-day-2024-saving-species-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> predicaments posed by non-native species.



Our increasingly interconnected world has caused many animal and plant species to migrate to new areas. These invasive species can endanger local species by introducing competition or new diseases. Interestingly, though, some of these invasive species are facing extinction in their native homes. 



This presents a compelling paradox, and prompts questions about whether we should protect or control non-native populations of endangered species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extent-of-the-paradox">Extent of the paradox</h2>



The recent study explores how widespread this conservation paradox is among non-native mammal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-we-failing-the-worlds-most-threatened-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a>. Worldwide, humans have introduced 230 mammal species to new regions.



"We were very surprised by this high number, as we assumed that invasive species are also common in their area of origin," noted study lead author Lisa Tedeschi from <a href="https://www.uniroma1.it/en/pagina-strutturale/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">La Sapienza University</a> and the <a href="https://www.univie.ac.at/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vienna</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-saviors-foreign-territories">Unexpected saviors: Foreign territories</h2>



The study details interesting instances where invasive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-extinctions-shatter-the-harmonious-balance-of-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> have flourished outside their native lands. 



For example, the crested macaque and wild rabbit both face severe declines in their original habitats whereas, in new territories, their numbers have remained stable or even increased. This finding implies that invasive populations could potentially rescue these endangered species from extinction in their homelands.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-globalization-in-nature-conservation">Role of globalization in nature conservation</h2>



The study raises valid questions about the current methods for assessing global extinction risks. Often, non-native populations are not considered in these assessments. 



However, the researchers argue that including these populations could improve the threat assessment for some species. 



Franz Essl, a biodiversity researcher from the University of Vienna, states that this could decrease the global extinction risk for 22 percent of the analyzed species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protection-efforts-for-non-native-species">Protection efforts for non-native species</h2>



While recognizing the value of non-native populations in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-know-far-less-about-four-footed-animals-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> conservation, the study also warns of potential downsides. Diverting attention towards such populations could reduce protection efforts for native ranges which may be more threatened. 



Plus, these species could negatively impact the local flora and fauna of their new range. Franz Essl concludes that the future may see more species threatened in their native ranges but thriving in new areas.



Thus, the tricky task of striking a balance between the benefits and risks of non-native populations needs to be addressed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-non-native-species-are-not-always-invasive">Non-native species are not always invasive </h2>



Non-native species are not always considered invasive. In some cases, they integrate into ecosystems without causing significant harm. 



For example, certain plants and animals introduced centuries ago have become naturalized, contributing to biodiversity and even serving as critical resources for local wildlife. The distinction between invasive and non-invasive alien species is vital for targeted conservation efforts.



Additionally, non-native species are often unintentionally introduced through human activities such as trade, tourism, and transportation. 



For instance, the zebra mussel, native to Eastern Europe, spread across North America by hitching rides on ships. Once such species are established, controlling them can be costly and challenging, often requiring coordinated international efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-types-of-non-native-species">Different types of non-native species</h2>



While many discussions focus on mammals, non-native species include a wide range of organisms such as birds, insects, and plants.



Non-native plants like kudzu in the United States can outcompete native flora, while insect species, such as the emerald ash borer, have devastated tree populations in North America. These examples highlight the need for comprehensive management strategies across multiple species and ecosystems.



Climate change further complicates the issue, as shifting temperatures and habitats can make regions more hospitable to different types of non-native species.



This can exacerbate their spread, introducing new risks to ecosystems that are already under stress. Understanding the interplay between climate change and non-native species is critical for future conservation policies.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://conbio.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/conl.13069" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Conservation Letters</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



----

How non-native species are saving themselves from extinction

Next time you spot a Norway rat scurrying around in...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that scientists never expected.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-waters-beneath-ancient-craters">Hidden waters beneath ancient craters</h2>



Scientists have made a startling discovery that challenges everything we thought we knew about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturn-moon-mimas-has-remarkably-young-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saturn's moon Mimas</a>. Beneath the heavily cratered surface that earned it the nickname "Death Star" lies a global ocean that formed just 5 to 15 million years ago—a remarkably young age by cosmic standards.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cassini-data-reveals-orbital-secrets">Cassini data reveals orbital secrets</h2>



The discovery, led by Dr. Valéry Lainey of the <a href="https://observatoiredeparis.psl.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Observatoire de Paris</a>, emerged from careful analysis of <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>'s Cassini spacecraft data. By studying subtle irregularities in Mimas's orbit around Saturn, researchers detected the gravitational signature of liquid water hidden 20 to 30 kilometers beneath the moon's icy shell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unlikely-ocean-world">An unlikely ocean world</h2>



At only 400 kilometers in diameter, Mimas seemed like the least likely candidate to harbor a subsurface ocean. Unlike other ocean moons such as Europa and Enceladus, which show clear surface signs of internal activity, Mimas displays no obvious hints of the liquid water beneath its ancient, crater-scarred exterior.



"Mimas is a small moon, and its heavily cratered surface gave no hint of the hidden ocean beneath," explained Dr. Nick Cooper from <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a>, a study co-author.



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



The ocean's recent formation makes Mimas a prime target for studying how oceans develop and potentially support life. This discovery adds another member to the exclusive club of ocean worlds in our solar system, each offering unique insights into the conditions necessary for habitability.



The research, published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a> journal, demonstrates how advanced orbital analysis can reveal hidden features of celestial bodies, opening new possibilities for understanding ocean formation throughout the cosmos.



—–



Like what you saw and read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—–



Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.



—–

Scientists discover unexpected young ocean on Saturn's cratered moon Mimas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ 'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE
</div></figure>



On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop and sunlight barely penetrates through the polar winter. It was here, however, that an international team of scientists found <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predatory-worms-were-terror-beasts-half-a-billion-years-ago/#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evidence of sea monsters</a> that would change our understanding of ocean life in the past.



This video captures the discovery of Timorebestia fossils that had been hidden for more than 500 million years in the Sirius Passet formation. The "terror beasts," as they are called, are a hidden chapter in the evolutionary history of <a href="https://www.earth.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a>, showing that sophisticated predator-prey interactions occurred much earlier than previously envisioned.



Dr. Jakob Vinther and his research team at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>, in collaboration with researchers at the <a href="https://eng.kopri.re.kr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Korean Polar Research Institute</a>, braved extreme weather conditions at 82.5 north latitude to locate these giant creatures. Using sophisticated electron microprobe analysis, they revealed the detailed anatomy of the animals, including their muscle and nerve tissues.



The find upsets the traditional timeline of sea predators. Although we've long appreciated that Cambrian oceans were at one time ruled by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWI3-UgA3_o&amp;list=PL1QLQMW9MWDwpkFOnvgAmu7wT6rZmYqdJ&amp;index=19" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arthropods</a>, these discoveries indicate that relatives of arrow worms were first to dominate the seas. These worms were building sophisticated food webs several million years before other predator groups arose.



Each fossil is a story of ancient hunger, with fossil stomach contents revealing these meter-long beasts dined on heavily armored arthropods regularly, cementing their place as the ocean's first apex predators.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">New York is the site of the world's oldest forest.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-385-million-year-old-trees-discovered">385-million-year-old trees discovered</h2>



Scientists have uncovered something extraordinary just two hours north of New York City. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-oldest-forest-discovered-close-to-new-york-city/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">world's oldest forest</a>, dating back 385 million years, offers a window into how Earth's first complex forests shaped our planet's atmosphere.



Located near <a href="https://townofcairo.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cairo, New York</a>, in Greene County, these weren't merely primitive plants struggling to survive. These were sophisticated trees with root systems remarkably similar to modern forests. This ancient woodland predates dinosaurs by 140 million years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cairo-forest-discovery">The Cairo forest discovery</h2>



385 million years ago, upstate New York was a tropical paradise near the equator. Thanks to continental drift, this ancient forest has traveled thousands of miles to its current location.



The fossil forest sits in an abandoned quarry, roughly half the size of a football field. This represents just a slice of what was likely a massive forest system stretching from New York into Pennsylvania.



Charles Ver Straeten, curator of sedimentary rocks at the <a href="https://www.nysm.nysed.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York State Museum</a>, made the discovery in 2009. While scouting the former highway department property, his trained eye spotted wandering patterns in the stone that looked like marine features.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionary-age-and-preservation">Revolutionary age and preservation</h2>



The site contains 385-million-year-old rocks with fossilized woody roots forming horizontal patterns up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) wide. As Christopher Berry, a paleobotanist at Cardiff University, explains: "You are walking through the roots of ancient trees."



This discovery pushes back advanced tree evolution by millions of years. The research, published in <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a> in December 2019, fundamentally changes our understanding of when complex forests first emerged.



Researchers believe a massive flood buried the forest floor, creating perfect fossilization conditions. Over millions of years, sediment hardened into rock, preserving these root patterns like nature's time capsule.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-archaeopteris-the-first-modern-tree">Meet Archaeopteris: the first modern tree</h2>



The star of this ancient forest is Archaeopteris – not to be confused with the feathered dinosaur Archaeopteryx. This tree was far older and more revolutionary.



William Stein from <a href="https://www.binghamton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Binghamton University</a> describes the roots as "strikingly modern, essentially what you'd see outside in my yard right now." These weren't simple root systems you'd expect from ancient plants.



Some fossilized roots are six inches (15 centimeters) in diameter, forming 36-foot-wide (11-meter) patterns. These giants grew up to 65 feet (20 meters) tall with five-foot-diameter (1.5-meter) trunks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-changing-impact">Climate-changing impact</h2>



These trees fundamentally changed Earth's environment. Kevin Boyce, a Stanford University geoscientist, explains how their deep roots triggered "weathering," chemical reactions that pulled carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.



This process dropped atmospheric CO2 levels from 10-15 times higher than today to roughly modern concentrations. These ancient trees helped create atmospheric conditions that made complex life possible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-forest-ecosystem">Ancient forest ecosystem</h2>



The forest was remarkably diverse. Scientists identified Eospermatopteris, palm tree-like plants with short roots that reached 30 feet (9 meters) tall but lacked woody structure. The forest also housed cladoxylopsids and a mysterious third species still being studied.



All reproduced through spores rather than seeds – millions of years before seeds evolved. This tropical environment had no grass, flowers, or flying insects, just towering trees creating Earth's first complex forest canopy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-significance">Scientific significance</h2>



Before this finding, the Gilboa forest, located 25 miles (40 kilometers) away, held the "oldest forest" title. Cairo's trees are 2-3 million years older, showing that complex forest ecosystems developed much faster than scientists believed possible.



Patricia Gensel, a <a href="https://www.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Carolina</a> paleobotanist, notes: "The size of those root systems is really changing the picture. Even 20 years ago, researchers assumed trees with such complex root systems didn't evolve so early."



The Cairo site presents three unique root systems, suggesting Devonian period forests were diverse ecosystems with different trees occupying different environmental niches, much like today's forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-preservation-efforts">Modern preservation efforts</h2>



In 2022, New York State Senator Michelle Hinchey secured a $170,000 grant for the town of Cairo to construct specialized fencing around the fossil forest site. The town plans to conduct a feasibility study exploring the possibility of creating an educational center and working lab on-site.



Joe Hasenkopf, chair of the Cairo Planning Board, hopes to partner with educational institutions to create a research facility serving scientists, students, and the public.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-for-today-s-climate">Lessons for today's climate</h2>



Why does a 385-million-year-old forest matter today? It shows how dramatically forests can change Earth's climate. These ancient woodlands created the atmospheric conditions supporting complex life.



Understanding how prehistoric forests transformed the planet helps us appreciate modern forests' critical role in addressing climate change. Forests remain Earth's most effective carbon capture systems.



These prehistoric trees changed Earth's atmosphere by pulling massive amounts of carbon dioxide from the air. As we face modern climate challenges, this ancient forest reminds us of trees' incredible power to transform our planet's environment.



The next time you walk through a forest, remember you're experiencing an ecosystem whose blueprint was established 385 million years ago in upstate New York. These ancient pioneers didn't just survive – they thrived and changed the world forever.



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ New York is the site of the world's oldest...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Acid rain and a crisis solved.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-don-t-we-ever-hear-about-acid-rain-anymore-the-environmental-crisis-that-was-solved">Why don't we ever hear about "acid rain" anymore? The environmental crisis that was solved</h2>



Remember the 1980s when acid rain dominated headlines? Dire warnings about rain eating buildings, killing fish, and destroying forests filled every news cycle. Then, almost like magic, acid rain vanished from public discourse. What happened? Did we actually solve one of the late 20th century's most pressing environmental challenges?



The answer might surprise you. Unlike many environmental issues that drag on indefinitely, acid rain represents one of modern history's most successful ecological recovery stories. It's a tale of science, politics, and technology working together to tackle what seemed impossible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What was acid rain?</h2>



Acid rain isn't regular rain having a bad day – it's precipitation that became significantly more acidic due to air pollution. When power plants, factories, and vehicles burn fossil fuels, they release sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The science behind it</h2>



Think of acid rain as nature's chemistry experiment gone wrong. These compounds react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form sulfuric and nitric acids. When mixed with water vapor in clouds, they create precipitation with dangerously low pH levels.



While clean rain has a pH of about 5.6, acid rain could drop as low as 4.2 to 4.4 – roughly as acidic as tomato juice or coffee. According to US Geological Survey documentation, Scottish chemist Angus Smith first coined "acid rain" in 1872, but it didn't become a household phrase until the 1960s and 1970s when Swedish scientist Svante Odén documented its devastating effects on Scandinavian lakes and European forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The crisis at its peak</h2>



During the height of public concern, environmental damage was both widespread and visible. This wasn't some abstract future threat – people could see destruction happening in real-time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Environmental devastation</h2>



The most dramatic impacts were impossible to ignore. Research documented by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation shows that in the Adirondack Mountains, more than 200 lakes became so acidic they couldn't support fish life. The Adirondack Council reports that 409 lakes once supported brook trout, but many lost their fish populations due to acid rain.



By 1976, when scientists cataloged all acidified lakes in the Adirondack Park, researchers found that half of the lakes over 2,000 feet above sea level had no fish, according to studies published in environmental journals. The acidification process worked like a slow-motion disaster. As acid rain fell into watersheds, it gradually lowered pH levels. Fish couldn't survive in acidic water, and their food sources died off too.



Trees at high elevations showed stress directly linked to acid rain. It weakened them by leaching nutrients and making them susceptible to disease. Historical records show Germany's Black Forest saw nearly half its trees damaged by the mid-1980s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Economic impact</h2>



Acid rain wasn't just environmental – it was expensive. Acidic precipitation corroded infrastructure, buildings, and monuments. Historic stone structures deteriorated at accelerated rates. Tourism suffered as lakes became fishless and forests declined. EPA economic analyses from the period documented repair costs mounting into billions annually.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The solution: government action and technology</h2>



Transformation from crisis to success required unprecedented cooperation between governments, industries, and environmental groups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Clean Air Act of 1990</h2>



The turning point came with the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, signed by President George H.W. Bush. This represented a fundamentally new approach to environmental regulation, as documented in EPA historical records.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cap-and-trade success</h2>



Instead of mandating specific technologies, the 1990 amendments introduced something revolutionary: a cap-and-trade system for sulfur dioxide emissions. EPA program documentation shows this market-based approach set overall limits but allowed companies to trade emission allowances.



The genius was harnessing market forces to find cost-effective pollution reduction. Companies reducing emissions cheaply could sell excess allowances to those facing higher costs. Research published in environmental economics journals and EPA progress reports shows this resulted in dramatic SO2 reduction at a fraction of projected costs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Technology advances</h2>



Policy provided the framework, but technology made reductions possible. Studies in atmospheric science journals document the widespread adoption of flue gas desulfurization systems ("scrubbers") that removed sulfur dioxide before it reached the atmosphere. By the 2000s, new installations could remove over 95% of SO2 emissions, according to EPA technical reports.



The push coincided with cleaner energy development. Natural gas produces fewer sulfur compounds than coal. Wind and solar, emerging in the 1990s, captured growing market share, reducing reliance on high-sulfur coal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-we-don-t-hear-about-it-today">Why we don't hear about it today</h2>



Why did acid rain disappear from headlines? Simple: the problem was largely solved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Success doesn't make news</h2>



There's an old journalism saying: "If it bleeds, it leads." Environmental success stories don't generate urgency like crisis reporting. Media attention shifted to other challenges: climate change, plastic pollution, and biodiversity loss. There's only so much environmental anxiety the public can absorb, and newer concerns replaced acid rain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mission accomplished</h2>



The primary reason is beautifully simple: interventions worked. EPA monitoring data shows sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990. Academic research published in environmental science journals confirms pH levels in formerly affected areas returned closer to normal. This represents one of history's most dramatic environmental recoveries. Studies by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation show fishless lakes now support healthy populations. Forests recovered, and building damage slowed dramatically.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-it-really-gone">Is it really gone?</h2>



The crisis is largely resolved, but monitoring data shows the problem isn't completely eliminated – it's managed to acceptable levels. Some areas still experience occasional events during high pollution periods. International environmental research indicates that rapidly industrializing Asian countries face similar problems to what we experienced decades ago, though they're implementing successful strategies.



EPA research shows nitrogen oxide emissions proved more challenging than sulfur dioxide, coming from vehicles and mobile sources. Climate science studies suggest changing weather patterns add complexity to how acid rain forms and falls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What this teaches us</h2>



The acid rain experience proves that seemingly intractable environmental problems can be solved with scientific understanding, political will, and technological innovation. Environmental monitoring data shows recovery speed was remarkable – within a decade, measurable improvements appeared in air quality and ecosystem health.



Success came from bipartisan support across party lines. Policy analysis studies show the market-based approach appealed to those preferring economic incentives while achieving environmental goals. This support created lasting policy surviving political changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h2>



Acid rain's disappearance from public consciousness represents environmental science's greatest success stories. Through effective regulation, technological innovation, and international cooperation, we transformed an overwhelming crisis into a manageable challenge.



Today's silence isn't because we forgot – it's because we solved it. The 1990 Clean Air Act, combined with technology and energy market changes, reduced acid rain emissions over 90%, according to comprehensive EPA data analysis.



This success offers hope for current challenges. It proves complex problems can be solved when science, policy, and technology work together. As we face climate change and plastic pollution, acid rain reminds us that dramatic positive change is possible.



Next time someone asks whether environmental regulations work, remember acid rain. It's proof that sometimes, we get it right.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



Sources: This article draws from EPA official documentation and progress reports, peer-reviewed research published in environmental and atmospheric science journals, historical data from the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation records, US Geological Survey publications, policy analysis studies, and environmental monitoring data collected over three decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>



1. Is acid rain completely gone? No, but EPA monitoring shows it's reduced to manageable levels. US sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990, making acid rain much less severe than the 1980s crisis.



2. How long did solving take? Environmental monitoring data shows significant improvements began within 5-10 years of 1990s emission controls. Full ecosystem recovery took longer – some areas need 20-30 years for complete recovery.



3. What made the solution successful? Clear scientific understanding, visible damage motivating action, bipartisan support, available technology, and innovative market-based policies like cap-and-trade.



4. Do other countries have acid rain problems? Yes, particularly rapidly industrializing Asian countries. However, international environmental research shows many implement similar successful control strategies.



5. Could acid rain return? Potentially, if regulations weaken or we return to high-sulfur coal without controls, though effects would take years to become severe according to environmental projections.



6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"? The United States Environmental Protection Agency produced a wonderful teacher's guide for ages 14 and under that you can find on the EPA website here: <a href="https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf</a>



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

The environmental problem we actually solved

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk Acid rain and a crisis solved. Why don't we...

Fresh,Radish,Harvest,On,Soil,In,Garden.

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex
</div></figure>







Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving fall garden, and this guide lays out the best vegetables and herbs to plant now for a fruitful autumn harvest. 



Fast-growing leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, kale, and arugula perform especially well in the waning summer heat, with harvests beginning as soon as 30 days. 



These cool-season crops relish the transition into fall, offering repeated yields with cut-and-come-again methods.



Root vegetables like radishes, carrots, and beets also excel during this period. Radishes deliver satisfaction in under a month, while carrots and beets mature in about two months. Employing succession planting ensures a continuous stream of produce deep into the cooler months. 



For a boost of fresh flavor, herbs like cilantro, basil, dill, and chervil are excellent picks. These heat-loving varieties flourish in July’s warmth and are harvest-ready in about 30 days, especially when sown continuously.



Gardeners in zones 6 through 9 can benefit from planting bush beans and snap peas, which don’t require trellising and are ideal for compact plots. 



Maturing in 50–60 days, they’re a smart choice for quick, protein-rich harvests. For those in hotter regions, heat-tolerant crops such as okra and southern peas provide reliable yields and thrive in scorching conditions.



This guide emphasizes more than crop selection—it highlights the importance of timing, soil preparation, and ongoing sowing techniques. 



With thoughtful planning and attention to regional climate needs, even late-summer gardeners can enjoy fresh salads, hearty stews, and the satisfaction of a robust, homegrown harvest well into fall.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



-----

What to plant in your garden in mid-July

https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving...

Green,Ecoduct,Over,An,Empty,Highway,During,Sunset.

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU
</div></figure>



A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that wildlife tunnels significantly reduce amphibian road mortality during seasonal migrations. 



Frogs and salamanders often cross roads to reach breeding ponds each spring, but many are killed by vehicles. 



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.uvm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vermont</a>, in collaboration with local citizens and the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, installed two underpass tunnels in 2015. 



Over a 12-year monitoring period, they observed an 80.2% reduction in amphibian deaths, and up to 94% for non-climbing species like salamanders. 



The study used a before-after-control-impact design and documented more than 5,200 amphibians, highlighting the tunnels’ effectiveness even in nearby buffer zones.



Funded at $342,397 - far cheaper than wildlife crossings for large mammals - the project showcased the power of community-led conservation.



Local groups initiated the effort after observing mass amphibian deaths. Wildlife cameras later captured over 2,200 amphibians using a tunnel in just one spring, along with other species like raccoons and bobcats, indicating wider ecosystem benefits.



This marks the first peer-reviewed, long-term data set in the northeastern U.S. confirming amphibian-specific underpasses work. 



The study urges transportation departments to incorporate these designs into road planning and highlights how community action, thoughtful infrastructure, and persistence can make a real difference for biodiversity.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1617138125000780" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal for Nature Conservation</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that...

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing it with probiotics and prebiotics, aiming to create a treat that satisfies cravings while supporting gut health. 



The challenge lies in maintaining chocolate's beloved texture and flavor while adding health benefits.



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



Probiotics - beneficial microbes that balance gut bacteria and aid digestion - are typically fragile and can be destroyed by stomach acid or processing. 



Prebiotics act as food for these microbes, helping them thrive. Together, they form "synbiotics," a powerful health combination.



Researchers Smriti Gaur and Shubhi Singh from India's Jaypee Institute of Information Technology took an innovative approach, using natural prebiotics like corn and honey instead of complex processing methods. 



They created five chocolate varieties: a control and four synbiotic versions containing different combinations of prebiotics, probiotics (Lactobacillus strains), and flavor enhancers (cinnamon or orange).



Laboratory simulations of human digestion showed the probiotics remained viable for over five hours, suggesting they could survive long enough to benefit gut health.



Taste tests were positive, with researchers particularly enjoying the orange-flavored variety, describing it as having "vibrant citrus notes" complementing the "rich cocoa" with a "luxurious" texture.



This research represents just the beginning. With further refinement of strains, textures, and flavors, chocolate could evolve beyond mere indulgence to become a functional food that nourishes while it delights.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsfoodscitech.4c00741" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Food Science &amp; Technology</a>.

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing...

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> explores the ability of salt to transform the way that foods and beverages taste. Salt is known to cover up undesirable flavors, such as bitterness in coffee or beer, but how exactly does sodium chloride change the taste of other compounds?



One previous study showed that, not only does salt suppress bitterness, but also enhances sweetness and sourness. Another study revealed that bitterness reduction by salt seems to be happening at the tongue receptor level as well as in the brain.&nbsp;



While it is known that salt taste is mediated by the presence of sodium channels in the form of taste buds, experts believe that there is also an unknown receptor responsible for how we taste salt that has not yet been identified.&nbsp;



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



---



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.

How does salt makes things taste better?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Santiago, the capital city of Chile. The city is located in the center of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, which has a population of about eight million people.&nbsp;



'The weather of Santiago resembles the Mediterranean climate with dry and warm summers with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (from October to March) and cool and humid winters that can drop to 0°C (from April to September)."



"The city lies in the centre of the country’s central valley around 80 km from the Pacific Ocean to the west and borders Argentina to the east. A tiny part of Argentina is visible in the top-right corner of the image where the mountain crest of the Andes Mountains acts as a divider between the two countries," says ESA.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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.

Santiago, Chile in South America

[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Spiral,Galaxy,,Illustration,Of,Milky,Way

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"]</div>



Astronomers at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/">Johns Hopkins University</a> have created an interactive map of the universe, including the actual position and real colors of 200,000 galaxies. The map allows the public to access data that was previously only available to scientists.



The map was developed using data collected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. For over two decades, a telescope in New Mexico was aimed at slightly different locations to capture the night sky.&nbsp;



"Growing up I was very inspired by astronomy pictures, stars, nebulae and galaxies, and now it's our time to create a new type of picture to inspire people," said map creator Brice Ménard, a professor at Johns Hopkins. "Astrophysicists around the world have been analyzing this data for years, leading to thousands of scientific papers and discoveries. But nobody took the time to create a map that is beautiful, scientifically accurate, and accessible to people who are not scientists. Our goal here is to show everybody what the universe really looks like."



"In this map, we are just a speck at the very bottom, just one pixel. And when I say we, I mean our galaxy, the Milky Way which has billions of stars and planets. We are used to seeing astronomical pictures showing one galaxy here, one galaxy there or perhaps a group of galaxies. But what this map shows is a very, very different scale."



"From this speck at the bottom, we are able to map out galaxies across the entire universe, and that says something about the power of science."



The <a href="https://mapoftheuniverse.net/">interactive map</a> is available online, where it can be downloaded for free.



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



---



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.

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"] Astronomers at Johns Hopkins University have created...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"]</div>



Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features northwest Lesotho in South Africa.



According to ESA, Lesotho is the only nation in the world that lies completely above 1,000 m in elevation. The country is famous for its tall mountains and narrow valleys, and is known as Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky."



Out of a population of around two million people, about 80 percent live in rural areas. More than 75 percent of these people are engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-have-a-global-impact-on-agriculture/">agriculture</a>, including rainfed cereal production and animal grazing.&nbsp;



ESA reports that the country’s agricultural system faces a growing number of issues, with climate-related vulnerabilities such as drought, floods and extreme temperatures occurring more frequently. 



Diamonds are amongst the minerals found in the mountains. Indeed, Lesotho can truly be called the Kingdom in the Sky. Beautiful, culturally rich, safe, affordable, and easily accessible from Durban and Johannesburg, mountainous Lesotho is a vastly underrated travel destination. the Kingdom of Lesotho (Sotho: 'Muso oa Lesotho) is an enclaved country in southern Africa. It is just over 30,000 km2 (11,583 sq mi) in size and has a population of around 2 million.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



---



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



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.

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"] Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland. Beyond its pub culture, Dublin is known as a modern culinary destination and a UNESCO City of Literature.



"Dublin is located near the midpoint of Ireland’s east coast in the province of Leinster. The city, which covers an area of around 115 square kilometers, is bordered by the Dublin Mountains, a low mountain range to the south, and is surrounded by flat farmland to the north and west," says ESA.



"The city straddles the River Liffey, which rises in the Wicklow Mountains and flows around 80 kilometers eastwards through the city of Dublin, in which it is canalised and bordered with quays. It then empties into Dublin Bay, an arm of the Irish Sea."



Dublin has an abundance of green spaces, including one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city. Phoenix Park, which was originally formed as a royal hunting park in the 1660s, includes 707 hectares of green space.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



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.

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.



"Together with the provinces of Huesca and Teruel, Zaragoza formed the old kingdom of Aragon. Its capital, also called Zaragoza (not visible in this image) is home to around half of Aragon’s population," says ESA.



"The Ebro River can be seen winding its way through the province from west to east in this image. Between its source in the Cantabrian Mountains in the northwest and its delta on the Mediterranean coast, the Ebro River is fed by more than 200 tributaries as it flows 910 km across much of northern Spain."



Since rainfall is very scarce in this region, irrigation in the Ebro basin is critically important. In the valleys surrounding the Ebro River, many fields are used for growing crops such as corn, wheat, and barley.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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.

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> reveals the evolution of the Columbia Glacier in southeastern Alaska. Columbia is among the fastest shrinking glaciers in the world, and the video documents its rapid retreat over the years.&nbsp;



Columbia Glacier is a large, multi-branched calving glacier that flows out of the Chugach Mountains to the Prince William Sound.&nbsp;



According to USGS, Columbia had a long history of stability prior to 1980, with a length 41 miles, and small, short-lived advances or retreats.



In the years since 1980, however, satellite images have captured Columbia’s alarming retreat. By using false-color images, scientists can distinguish between snow and ice, open water, vegetation, and rocky debris on the glacier’s surface.



The series of false-color images featured in today's video were acquired over the span of 35 years. You can see that by 2021, the glacier’s main branch had retreated about 15 miles from its initial position.



The Columbia Glacier has also lost more than 50 percent of its volume, mostly due to calving. <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/nasa-reveals-3d-visual-of-an-atmospheric-river/">NASA</a> reports that while climate change likely started the retreat, mechanical processes kept the disintegration going.



The NASA images are provided by Jesse Allen, Robert Simmon, Joshua Stevens, and Lauren Dauphin using data from Landsat satellites, from the U.S. Geological Survey, and data from MODIS on NASA’s Terra satellite. The structure of Columbia’s moraine played a large role in the stability of the glacier before 1980. 



Like other tidewater glaciers, the Columbia built up a moraine over time, and the mixture of ice and rock functioned like a dam keeping out the sea. It was supported on one end by the shoreline and by the underwater terminal moraine at the other.



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio



---



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.

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the Pyrenees Mountains, which form a natural boundary between France and Spain in southwest Europe.



The mountain range is 430 kilometers in length. It stretches from the Mediterranean Sea on the east to the Atlantic Ocean on the west.



At an elevation of 3404 meters, Pico de Aneto is the highest mountain peak in the Pyrenees, and the third-highest peak in Spain. Pico de Aneto is located in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, which spans more than 82,000 acres.&nbsp;



"Geological studies have revealed that the Pyrenees Mountains have been around for longer than the Alps, with their sediments first deposited in coastal basins during the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras," reports ESA.



"The entire mountain range formed due to the upwelling of large sedimentary rocks by the collision of the Iberian and the Eurasian plate around 100 to 150 million years ago, followed by intense erosion from ice and water."



The western Pyrenees receive more precipitation due to moisture blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean. The mountain range contains many lakes, several small glaciers, and some of the highest waterfalls in Europe.



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



---



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.

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes two exoplanets that are orbiting a star 218 light-years away. A team of researchers led by the University of Montreal has found evidence that these planets are "water worlds."



The experts used data from NASA’s Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes. They discovered that exoplanets Kepler-138 c and Kepler-138 could be composed largely of water.



"We previously thought that planets that were a bit larger than Earth were big balls of metal and rock, like scaled-up versions of Earth, and that's why we called them super-Earths," explained study co-author Björn Benneke.&nbsp;



"However, we have now shown that these two planets, Kepler-138 c and d, are quite different in nature and that a big fraction of their entire volume is likely composed of water. It is the best evidence yet for water worlds, a type of planet that was theorized by astronomers to exist for a long time."



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and Leah Hustak (STScI)



---



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.

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

News coming your way