Two iconic dinosaurs - Tyrannosaurus rex and Brachylophosaurus canadensis - have yielded a fresh line of evidence that traces of their original biology can survive for tens of millions of years. 



In new work, researchers at <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Carolina State University</a> identified hemoglobin - the oxygen-carrying protein in blood - and its iron-bearing heme group in bone extracts from both animals.



The finding strengthens a growing body of data showing that certain biomolecules can persist in exceptional fossils. It also clarifies how they change as fossils form.



Researchers have debated and re-examined soft, stretchy tissues from these same specimens for nearly two decades. 



Teams have used high-resolution imaging, antibodies, and protein sequencing to argue that the materials are genuine remnants of dinosaur biology rather than modern contaminants. The latest study adds another tool - and another confirmation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-light-unlocks-dinosaur-chemistry">Light unlocks dinosaur chemistry</h2>



The team turned to <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/resonance-raman-spectroscopy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Resonance Raman (RR) spectroscopy</a>. In this method, laser light is tuned to a molecule’s electronic transitions. This causes only that molecule to “sing” back with a strong signal.



“Raman spectroscopy essentially uses light waves to identify a molecule’s energetic ‘fingerprint,’” said physicist Hans Hallen, the study’s corresponding author. 



“Resonance Raman, which we use here, takes that process one step further by using light already tuned to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seeking-the-origins-of-the-molecule-that-made-the-universe/">molecule</a> of interest - so only that type of molecule will resonate.”



That resonance dramatically boosts the signal from specific bonds - crucial when your targets are rare, damaged molecules embedded in a complex fossil matrix.



“This strong signal allows us to find the needle (hemoglobin remnants) in the haystack (messy fossil) to see how this molecule has changed from the functional living state, revealing the chemical changes molecules undergo in deep time,” Hallen added.



RR spectra from T. rex and Brachylophosaurus extracts showed signatures consistent with heme still bound to globin proteins. In addition, they indicated heme bound to goethite, an iron oxide mineral linked to oxidized iron.



The researchers cross-checked those signals against demineralized modern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-of-a-cretaceous-ostrich-mexidracon-longimanus-with-extremely-long-arms/">ostrich</a> bone and human blood to anchor their interpretations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blood-molecules-traced-to-dinosaurs">Blood molecules traced to dinosaurs</h2>



Because Raman detects bonds rather than whole molecules, skeptics often point out that generic signals could arise from modern microbes or other contaminants. 



That’s where the extra selectivity of RR - and the structural information in the spectra - matters.



“RR identifies both bonds and structure," said paleobiologist Mary Schweitzer, a co-author on the work. 



"We know that heme is there and that it is still bound to hemoglobin protein - contaminants like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reusable-water-bottles-are-breeding-ground-for-strep-and-fecal-bacteria/">bacteria</a> don’t have those specific bonds, so we can say that the molecules are from the animal, or in this case, the dinosaur,”



The team also mapped how those spectral fingerprints shift as hemoglobin decays. After death, the protein breaks down, damaging the heme ring and oxidizing the iron inside it. 



RR data show that goethite forms on that iron, and the heme can bind to the mineral surface.



Tellingly, the researchers observed the early stages of the same degradation pathway in modern samples, suggesting that key steps happen relatively quickly and then stabilize.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dinosaur-blood-survived-fossilization">Dinosaur blood survived fossilization</h2>



Beyond confirming what the molecules are, the spectral changes reveal a plausible route for how they survived. 



Goethite is a bio-related mineral - it often forms in association with biological activity - and the new data hint that it doesn’t just grow near proteins; it can latch onto and stabilize fragments. "We didn’t know that it could bind to and stabilize <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-modified-plant-proteins-to-create-delicious-meat-alternatives/">protein</a> fragments,” Hallen said.



That matters because it shows a mechanism that locks delicate organics in place and protects them during fossilization. 



Researchers already know that heme persists in sediments far older than the age of dinosaurs, but the path from fresh blood to ancient rock has remained murky.



Pinning down the chemistry helps explain why hemoglobin, in particular, shows up as a survivor - and why some fossils preserve molecular vestiges while others do not.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-view-of-fossil-preservation">A new view of fossil preservation</h2>



The study reinforces a shift in paleontology: under the right conditions, original biochemistry can endure deep time, and modern tools can detect and interpret it. 



Instead of a binary “preserved or not,” researchers are piecing together degradation pathways, mineral partnerships, and microenvironments that favor survival.



For dinosaur biology, that means more than just curiosity. Hemoglobin and heme in blood play key roles in metabolism, oxygen transport, and overall physiology. 



Their presence, and the way they degrade, defines how tissues fossilize and what information we can still extract.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/dinosaur-bone_hemoglobin_preserved_NCSU_1m.jpg"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/dinosaur-bone_hemoglobin_preserved_NCSU_1s.webp" alt="Vessels isolated from Tyrannosaurus cortical bone by demineralization in EDTA. Credit: NC State University" class="wp-image-1985867"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vessels isolated from Tyrannosaurus cortical bone by demineralization in EDTA. Click image to enlarge. Credit: NC State University</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blood-chemistry-spans-eons">Blood chemistry spans eons</h2>



For dinosaur fossil science, mineral–organic interactions like heme–goethite may help preserve blood proteins and molecular fragments throughout Earth’s history.



“Heme has been identified in sediments that are much, much older than dinosaurs, so we know that it persists,” Schweitzer noted. 



“Understanding why <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-human-genetics-could-optimize-medical-care/">hemoglobin</a> preserves, and the role that heme plays in the process, is really important if we want to know how these ancient molecules survive through time.”



The upshot is both practical and provocative. Resonance Raman pinpoints specific ancient molecules within messy fossils, and the chemistry it reveals also serves as a preservation roadmap. 



That’s a powerful combination for anyone trying to read life’s oldest diaries written in stone.



The study is published in the <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspa.2025.0175" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society A Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences</a>.



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Hemoglobin and other blood molecules found preserved in dinosaur fossils

Two iconic dinosaurs - Tyrannosaurus rex and Brachylophosaurus canadensis - have yielded a fresh line of evidence that traces of their original biology can survive for tens of millions of years. In new work, researchers at North Carolina State University identified hemoglobin - the oxygen-carrying protein in blood - and its iron-bearing heme group in bone extracts from both animals. The finding strengthens a growing body of data showing that certain biomolecules can persist in exceptional fossils. It also clarifies how they change as fossils form. Researchers...

The Burmese python is a creature that can swallow prey you wouldn’t even dare to imagine. These snakes aren’t native to your backyard unless you live in Southern Florida, where they have largely replaced raccoons, foxes, and bobcats in their diet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extraordinary-python-diet">Extraordinary python diet</h2>



Pythons are known for their ability to make a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/python-gut-regeneration-offers-clues-for-treating-human-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hearty meal</a> out of deer, alligators, and other large creatures.



They consume these animals entirely, with jaws stretchy enough to accommodate a feast seemingly too large for their size.



This extraordinary ability to chow down on such big game is related to the snake's "gape," and guess what? Scientists have recently discovered that this gape is even more spacious than initially thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evaluating-the-burmese-python-gape">Evaluating the Burmese python gape</h2>



Professor Bruce Jayne from the <a href="https://www.uc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cincinnati</a> said measurements of snakes captured in and around Everglades National Park show that the biggest pythons have an even bigger gape than mathematical models would suggest.



Collaborating with researchers Ian Easterling and Ian Bartoszek from the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, Professor Jayne has evaluated some of these mammoth snakes measuring 15, 17, and 19 feet long.



The information unveiled was nothing short of startling. The most sizable python had a gape of 26 centimeters (or 10.2 inches), which is significantly larger than the previously recorded 22 centimeters (or 8.7 inches).



Professor Jayne said that at first, this doesn't sound like a significant change - just 18% larger. But the total area of the gape increased by a whopping 40%, he noted.&nbsp;



The largest pythons had a gape circumference of more than 81 centimeters, which is the equivalent of a 32-inch waist on a pair of pants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unbelievable-feasts">Unbelievable feasts </h2>



So, what's the big deal with some extra room? Well, it means <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pythons-can-make-their-heart-stronger-and-we-need-to-know-how/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pythons</a> can devour even larger prey than we realized.



Their astounding ability to swallow is backed by some eye-opening evidence. The researchers found one audacious snake gobbling down a deer weighing 77 pounds - about two-thirds of the snake's weight.



According to Bartoszek, observing this apex invader swallowing a full-sized deer is an unforgettable sight and serves as a stark reminder of the ecological impact of Burmese pythons.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-asian-rainforests-to-florida">From Asian rainforests to Florida</h2>



Interestingly, Burmese pythons aren't native to Florida but hail from the southeast Asian rainforests. They ended up in the Sunshine State due to the pet trade and the irresponsible practices of owners.



The unique anatomical structure of pythons, with a jawbone that's not fused at the front and super-stretchy skin, blesses them with a gobbling power six times that of other similar-sized snakes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secrets-of-python-power">Secrets of python power</h2>



One of the fascinating aspects of studying pythons is the size range within the species; they vary from 24 inches long and 4 ounces at hatching to nearly 20 feet and 200 pounds as adults.



This diverse size range has influenced the researchers to understand better the correlation between the snake's gape, its cranial anatomy, and overall size, thereby getting a grasp of its predatory prowess.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-python-invasion">Consequences of python invasion</h2>



Although Burmese pythons of more than 16 feet are rare, their broader gape and increasing presence are alarming. The collective removal of 770 pythons, all more than 6.5 feet long, weighed over 33,000 pounds. 



If each snake were to consume just one deer as big as they could swallow, that would equal an astonishing 13,000 pounds of prey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-python-population-control">Python population control</h2>



In response to the burgeoning <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/python-meat-is-a-more-sustainable-food-than-chicken-or-beef/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">python population</a>, various innovative control techniques are being tested. One promising approach involves the use of specially trained detector dogs that excel in identifying and tracking the scent of these elusive snakes. 



These canine companions have already proven effective in uncovering hidden pythons in the wild, supporting conservation efforts in restoring the balance of Florida's delicate ecosystems. 



Similarly, advanced technological solutions, including motion-activated trap systems and thermal imaging, are being deployed to further bolster efforts in managing and reducing python numbers. 



These creative methods highlight the increasing necessity of multidisciplinary approaches in battling invasive species.



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



Looking ahead, the future of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diverse-group-of-snakes-has-a-new-evolutionary-tree/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">python research</a> is expected to delve deeper into understanding their ecological impact and finding sustainable solutions to mitigate their spread. 



Continued collaboration between scientists, conservationists, and local communities will be vital in crafting strategies that are both effective and respectful of biological diversity. 



The insights gained from studying Burmese pythons in Florida not only enhance our understanding of invasive species but also inform broader ecological and conservation principles applicable worldwide. 



Ultimately, as research progresses, the balance between preserving local wildlife and managing invasive predators such as pythons will define the success of these conservation efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threat-from-burmese-pythons">Threat from Burmese pythons</h2>



These realities pose significant concerns about the Burmese python's ecological impact, particularly if they spread to other parts of Florida and, potentially, the rest of the American Southeast. 



Their increasing prevalence in various regions across Florida is a glaring testimony to their phenomenal (and frightening) impact on prey populations. 



"That's the tip of the iceberg of this phenomenal impact on prey <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universal-antivenom-to-heal-all-snakebites-is-closer-to-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a> in Florida," Jayne said. "Researchers are trying to get a handle on where the spread might stop."



This leaves us all with some questions - will the Burmese Pythons continue their reign of terror? How can we manage the growing python problem in Florida?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.17161/randa.v31i1.21867">Reptiles &amp; Amphibians</a>.



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Burmese pythons are eating larger animals whole

The Burmese python is a creature that can swallow prey...

In the realm of famous thieves and tricksters from Han Solo to Catwoman, scientists uncovered a new set of unusual suspects - tiny wasps from an understudied genus.



The wasps are not caped vigilantes or gallant galactic rogues, but minuscule marauders in the spotlight thanks to new research from Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences. The experts have named 22 new species of gall wasps.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-rich-tapestry-of-wasp-thieves">A rich tapestry of wasp thieves</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/invasive-wasps-are-expanding-northward-on-the-west-coast/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gall wasps</a> are insects that lead a kleptomaniac-like existence. They inhabit small structures called "galls," which they steal from other wasp species.



In recognition of their thieving ways, scientists named the newly discovered insects after infamous thieves and tricksters from history, mythology, and pop culture.



Consider the wasp known as Prometheus, borrowing its name from the titan in Greek mythology who stole fire from the gods and gave it to mankind. This wasp's vibrant, fiery red coloring made it an ideal candidate for such a legendary name.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-study">Significance of the study</h2>



This research is more than just a fancy naming ceremony for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-insect-decline-what-are-the-causes-and-consequences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insects</a>. Study lead author Louis Nastasi, a doctoral student of entomology at Penn State, emphasized the significance of the team's work.



"By naming these species, we give other researchers an anchor they can carry forward to other studies because now they can identify wasps that were previously unknown," Nastasi said. 



"It provides a base and a tool kit for future work that could help us understand these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wasps-are-undervalued-as-predators-and-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> and their ecosystems more broadly."



The research begins a new chapter in understanding these elusive wasps and offers valuable insights into their biology.



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



The catalyst for the study was a tricky question raised by a separate study on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bee-evolution-occurred-tens-of-millions-of-years-earlier-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution of gall wasps</a>. A team from the <a href="https://uiowa.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Iowa</a> had DNA data from multiple wasps but struggled to identify the exact species.



This led to a collaboration with Nastasi, whose expertise is in species identification, description, and diagnosis.



“I ended up in conversation with Andrew Forbes, who’s the leader of the University of Iowa team, and he told me about the difficulties they were having,” Nastasi said. 



"And since my area of expertise is species identification, description and diagnosis of these tiny wasps, he asked if it would be possible for me to get involved and figure out what exactly is going on.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-new-wasp-thieves">Identifying new wasp thieves</h2>



Nastasi combined biological and molecular information from the team's previous study with his own anatomical and physical characteristic insect analysis. This multi-layered approach led to surprising findings.



"We found that some of the insects thought to be one&nbsp;single species&nbsp;were actually two independent species, and that using only the molecular data did not sufficiently separate them into multiple species," Nastasi said. 



"We had to combine that information with this new morphological analysis, and then by combining those types of data, it allowed us to get a clear vision of what each of these species are."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stories-behind-the-thieving-wasps">Stories behind the thieving wasps </h2>



Once the species were accurately categorized, it was time to christen them with names. The scientists named a wasp with a penchant for thieving Ceroptres selinae after Selina Kyle, also known as Catwoman from DC Comics. 



The experts named a species with a traitorous streak Ceroptres bruti after Marcus Junius Brutus, the infamous betrayer of Julius Caesar. 



A third wasp was named Ceroptres soloi after Hans Solo, the charming rogue and thief from the Star Wars franchise. Nastasi and his team said the naming process itself was creatively stimulating.



"A lot of effort goes into identifying these species and there's a lot of art in choosing a good species name, so it was exciting to exemplify that and really carefully select names for these new species," said Nastasi.



Our understanding of these tiny creatures is just beginning and there are many mysteries to uncover. In the future, researchers may take a closer look at the life cycles, biological traits, environment, and thieving strategies of gall wasps.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://mapress.com/zt/article/view/zootaxa.5508.1.1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zootaxa</a>.



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New wasp species named after famous thieves

In the realm of famous thieves and tricksters from Han...

Ever wondered why we humans are so drawn to locking lips? A maelstrom of theories have swirled around this age-old question of when and why humans started to kiss, but the latest theory by Professor Adriano Lameira may give you pause before you lean in for that next peck.



Professor Lameira, an evolutionary psychologist at Warwick University, suggests that our love for kissing dates back to our furry ancestors millions of years ago. 



They used the act of sucking with pursed lips to help remove pests from each other's fur.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-parasite-plucking-to-passionate-kissing">From parasite-plucking to passionate kissing</h2>



It's a long way from lice-plucking to lip-smacking. This journey, according to Lameira, started a few million years ago when the gesture began to signify something more than simply hygienic care.



The humble kiss was no longer just about grooming - it began to turn into an intimate precursor to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-does-love-live-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mating</a>.



Professor Adriano Lameira is a respected figure in the field of evolutionary psychology and his research at <a href="https://warwick.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Warwick University</a> has produced some intriguing hypotheses. 



This latest theory, known as "the groomer's final kiss," adds an unexpected twist to the evolution of human affection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-legacy-of-lice-plucking">Legacy of lice plucking</h2>



In his new study, Professor Lameira views the kiss as another by-product of our fascinating evolutionary past.



Those gentle lip pursing actions were once the frontline in the fight against parasites, dead skin, and debris. Lameira believes that these grooming sessions, which once covered the entire body, gradually became centred around the mouth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-love">Evolution of love</h2>



As our ancestors shed their fuzz and became less hairy, these grooming sessions predictably started shortening. The all-over groom ceased, and only the final mouth-contact stage endured, evolving into what we now recognize as kissing.



Professor Lameira estimates that our ancestors began using this fur-sucking technique around 7 million years ago, about the time they started moving from the treetops to the ground.



The transition required this form of grooming due to the increased exposure to parasites at ground level.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earliest-record-of-kissing">Earliest record of kissing</h2>



Kissing apes emerged roughly 2-4 million years ago when they lost all of their fur. The earliest recorded evidence of kissing can be traced back to texts from Mesopotamia, circa 2500 BC.



From then until now, all forms of kissing evolved from this primordial parasite-removal technique, noted Professor Lameira.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-than-just-romance">More than just romance</h2>



Today, kissing isn't just about romantic or sexual attraction. Kissing on the lips, or as the Romans referred to as the "savium," is just one part of the story.



The exact reasons behind kissing acquiring a sexual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dating-apps-make-it-difficult-to-find-true-love/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">connotation</a> remain more speculative. The correlation between the desire to kiss and sexual urges might need additional research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kissing-is-unique-to-humans">Kissing is unique to humans</h2>



While kissing is a universal human behavior, it's interesting to note that no other members of the animal kingdom engage in this act the way we do. The slight suction movement, the protruding lips - these are uniquely human.



Professor Lameira suggests that the kiss has evolved into a symbol of trust and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/having-a-sense-of-purpose-makes-you-more-likely-to-find-love/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">affiliation</a>. 



"Few natural human signals carry the symbolism and social sanctions of kissing. Evidence supports that kissing isn't a derived signal of affection in humans."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biochemical-processes-in-the-brain">Biochemical processes in the brain</h2>



From the perspective of neurobiology, a kiss triggers a cascade of biochemical processes in the brain. Neurotransmitters like dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin are released, contributing to sensations of pleasure, bonding, and emotional well-being. 



This intricate dance of hormones explains why a kiss can evoke feelings ranging from excitement to tranquility. 



In fact, the act of kissing engages different areas of the brain, tapping into our primal instincts and sophisticated emotions alike. 



Such insights highlight the complex nature of kissing, extending beyond mere cultural tradition to encompass profound physiological impacts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-expression-of-affection">Cultural expression of affection</h2>



Kissing varies greatly across cultures, with some seeing it as a pivotal part of social and relational rituals while others view it differently or do not practice it at all. 



In many Western cultures, a kiss is a common expression of love and friendship. In other regions, such as parts of Asia, kissing in public is often frowned upon or even considered taboo.



In some tribal societies, kissing is an unfamiliar gesture entirely, with affection demonstrated through other means. These cultural perspectives illustrate the rich diversity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/self-compassion-enhances-relationship-satisfaction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human expression</a> and the multiple pathways through which connection and affection can be communicated.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-furry-past-of-the-peck">Furry past of the peck</h2>



So, what do we make of all this? Is kissing a hard-wired primate grooming technique or a symbol of affection? 



According to Professor Lameira, it appears to be a bit of both. "It instead represents a surviving devolved, vestigial form of primate grooming that conserved its ancestral form, context, and function."



What a journey from primitive grooming to becoming an emblem of intimacy in the human world. The tale is as bizarre as it is fascinating.



And who knows, the next time you move in for that age-old manifestation of affection, you might just find yourself thinking about the furry history of the humble kiss.



The study is published in the journal <a class="" href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/evan.22050" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Evolutionary Anthropology</a>.



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Bizarre history of kissing: It wasn't always romantic

Ever wondered why we humans are so drawn to locking...

New research reveals another surprising impact of human activity on the environment: New Zealand's native stoneflies have changed color due to human-induced changes.



The study, recently published in the journal Science, hails from the University of Otago. It reveals without a shadow of a doubt that humans are driving animal evolution.



If you thought that evolution was strictly Mother Nature's domain, think again. Our actions, it appears, have the power to shape the course of evolution.



The study was led by Professor Jon Waters, an expert in the Department of Zoology. He noted that the stonefly has become a different color due to recent deforestation.



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



“In natural forested regions, a native <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-boost-plant-evolution-in-surprising-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> has evolved ‘warning’ colors that mimic those of a poisonous forest species, to trick predators into thinking they are poisonous too," said Professor Waters.



“But the removal of forests since humans arrived has removed the poisonous species. As a result, in deforested regions the mimicking species has abandoned this strategy - as there is nothing to mimic - instead evolving into a different color.”



The game plan takes a drastic turn with humans in the picture. The deforestation that followed human arrival ousted the poisonous species. 



The species that the stoneflies mimicked no longer existed. Faced with this reality, the mimicking species abandoned its old strategy. 



So, in a remarkable demonstration of adaptability, the stoneflies evolved into a different color. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impact-on-stonefly-evolution">Human impact on stonefly evolution</h2>



Have humans been unintentionally shaping the evolutionary trajectory of natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worm-youti-yuanshi-lived-520-million-years-ago-explains-insect-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a>?



Historically speaking, the peppered moth population in the United Kingdom is the most famous example.



Their color change in response to industrial pollution in the 1800s sparked a global interest in the interactions between human activity and evolution. Yet, as Professor Waters notes, even that case has stirred some controversy.



This new stonefly study, on the contrary, provides irrefutable evidence of humans modifying the way native species interact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-interactions-of-species">Ecological interactions of species</h2>



Another co-author of the study, Dr Graham McCulloch, spoke about the impact of humans on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-play-a-much-bigger-role-in-seed-dispersal-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological interactions</a>, noting that our actions have jumbled the ecological interactions between species that evolved over millions of years. However, he remains hopeful.



"This study is important because it shows that, at least for some of our native species, there is the possibility of adapting to the environmental changes caused by humans, even when the change is rapid," said Dr. McCulloch.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stoneflies-link-to-humans">Stoneflies' link to humans</h2>



The revelation about stoneflies is merely a fragment of a much larger tapestry of ecological change influenced by human presence.



Ecosystems are intricate webs where changes to one species can ripple across the network. The displacement or transformation of native species reverberates through the trophic levels, sometimes manifesting in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-happening-too-fast-for-some-species-to-adapt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unforeseen ways</a>. 



The disappearance of the poisonous species in New Zealand's forests not only impacted the stoneflies but potentially affected other organisms within this microhabitat, altering food sources, predator-prey dynamics, and even pollination processes. 



Such interconnected consequences prompt us to reflect on the broader responsibilities entwined with our interventions in natural habitats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-of-stoneflies">Conservation of stoneflies</h2>



The ability of the stoneflies to evolve quickly in response to anthropogenic pressures provides a practical insight into conservation strategies. By understanding the inherent adaptability within species, conservationists can develop initiatives that support this resilience. 



Encouraging the preservation of genetic diversity is fundamental, as it equips species with the tools to navigate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nighttime-buzz-insect-activity-increases-by-31-4-at-night/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental changes</a>. 



Moreover, conservation efforts might also focus on facilitating natural adaptation processes by maintaining or restoring habitats that allow species the ecological room to maneuver and adapt. 



Dr. McCulloch and his team advocate for informed ecological interventions and policy-making that not only mitigate damage but actively encourage the natural capacity for adaptation. 



The research highlights the need for an adaptive management approach that responds to the dynamic changes unfolding in ecosystems worldwide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predictability-amidst-unpredictability">Predictability amidst unpredictability</h2>



The most fascinating aspect of this study, however, lies in the patterns it reveals. The stoneflies in different parts of the species' range have undergone similar changes due to human activity. 



They have adopted a similar strategy in response to deforestation. This surprising parallel suggests that evolution can be a predictable process, despite its unpredictable reputation.



It's evident from the <a href="https://www.otago.ac.nz" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Otago</a> study that human actions are leaving an indelible imprint on the natural world. Yet, as the adaptability of the New Zealand stoneflies suggests, nature has quite a few tricks up its sleeve. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.ado5331" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Insects are changing color to adapt to human destruction

New research reveals another surprising impact of human activity on...

Humans stand tall and walk with a sense of achievement, but this ability took millions of years to develop. Our ancient ancestors crawled like reptiles before evolving into our upright posture. What caused this posture evolution?



Dr. Peter Bishop and Professor Stephanie Pierce from Harvard are using computer simulations and fossils to share their findings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-to-upright-posture">Evolution to upright posture</h2>



It would be a simple and straightforward tale if our ancestors just one day decided to stand up straight and never look back. But <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mammal-evolution-kicked-off-with-daring-experiments/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a>, the researchers discovered, is far from a linear journey.



After scrutinizing the biomechanics of various modern species and eight exemplary fossil species spanning 300 million years, they found dynamics that are more thrilling than a sci-fi movie.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-journey-to-modern-posture">The journey to modern posture</h2>



In order to make sense of the evolutionary changes in posture, our researchers took a closer look at some modern analogs, including the sprawled tegu lizard, semi-upright alligator, and upright greyhound. 



In their own words, understanding how current creatures move and stand offers a fascinating glimpse into how posture <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-mammals-have-evolved-over-66-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolved over time</a>.



Moving from the present to the past, the researchers cast their eyes on eight fossil species from four continents, each representing a different epoch.



From the tiny proto-mammal Megazostrodon to the mammoth Ophiacodon, they used advanced digital biomechanical models to unravel the secrets of locomotion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-locomotion-of-species"> Locomotion of species</h2>



“By first studying these modern species, we greatly improved our understanding of how an animal’s anatomy relates to the way it stands and moves,” said Bishop. 



“We could then put it into an evolutionary context of how posture and gait actually changed from early synapsids through to modern mammals.” Dr. Bishop noted that the amount of force that a limb can apply to the ground is a critical determinant of locomotor performance in animals.



“If you cannot produce sufficient force in a given direction when it’s needed, you won’t be able to run as fast, turn as quickly, or worse still, you could well fall over.”



To better understand the factors behind mammals posture evolution, the researchers utilized a three-dimensional "feasible force space" that encapsulates the overall performance of a limb.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transition-to-upright-posture">Transition to upright posture</h2>



Armed with this biomechanical data, Dr. Bishop and Professor Pierce from <a href="https://oeb.harvard.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard's Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology</a> discovered that the evolutionary transition to an upright posture was a rollercoaster ride. 



Instead of a simple progression from sprawling to upright, they found that locomotor performance peaked and dipped over millions of years. 



Some ancient species showed flexibility. They were able to switch between more sprawled or upright postures, like today's versatile alligators and crocodiles.



These findings help to clarify some peculiarities seen in fossils. For example, they may explain why many early mammal ancestors had asymmetric hands, feet, and limb joints, traits more associated with sprawling postures.



The experts noted that, unlike modern placentals and marsupials found lying on their side, early mammal ancestors were often found in a splayed pose.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-in-reverse">Evolution in reverse</h2>



“The picture is emerging that the full complement of quintessentially therian traits was assembled over a complex and prolonged period, with the full suite attained relatively late in synapsid history,” said Professor Pierce.



Furthermore, the study hints at evolution's susceptibility to chance events and mass extinctions.



For example, the Permian-Triassic mass extinction - a catastrophe that eliminated 90% of life - seemingly influenced the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jaw-dropping-mammal-evolution-discovery-fills-in-more-blanks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary path</a> of synapsids and forced a postural shift back towards sprawled poses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-the-footprints-of-ancient-creatures">Tracing the footprints of ancient creatures </h2>



The research examines how the footprints of ancient creatures provide compelling evidence of posture evolution. 



Footprint fossils, with their preserved stride lengths and toe arrangements, act as historical snapshots of prehistoric locomotion. 



By analyzing these prints, Dr. Bishop and Professor Pierce could draw conclusions about the gait and stance of extinct species. They discovered that some primordial footprints resembled those of both semi-upright and upright creatures, hinting at a transitional phase. 



This intersection between skeletal analysis and ichnology - the study of trace fossils - offers a richer, more nuanced view of the evolutionary journey to upright posture, revealing how our forebears literally left their mark on the planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-studies-of-posture-evolution">Future studies of posture evolution</h2>



Understanding the nuances of postural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mammals-evolved-similar-inner-ears-despite-different-ancestry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a> contributes significantly to modern scientific and medical research.



Insights gained from these evolutionary studies can inform the development of advanced prosthetics and robotics, as the principles of biomechanical efficiency and adaptability seen in nature can inspire innovative design solutions. 



Furthermore, exploring the evolutionary trajectory of posture provides critical lessons concerning the adaptability of life in the face of climate change and environmental upheaval.



As we confront modern challenges, these studies serve as a reminder of the resilience embedded in life's history, offering guidance on how species might continue to adapt in an ever-changing world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-posture-evolution">New perspective on posture evolution</h2>



Unraveling the intricacies of how mammals came to stand upright has been a massive challenge. Thanks to advances in computing power and digital modeling, scientists like Dr. Bishop and Professor Pierce are offering fresh insights into this ancient mystery. 



As the researchers assert, the evolution of posture in mammals was far from a linear journey.



Their findings hint at a complex and fascinating history of evolutionary adaptation - and remind us just why we humans are quite extraordinary creatures.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adr2722" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Mammal evolution: The long journey from sprawling to upright posture

Humans stand tall and walk with a sense of achievement,...

When you walk past a garden, it is easy to appreciate the burst of colors and fragrant aroma of blooming flowers.



Beyond their visual appeal, gardens offer a peaceful retreat for people seeking a connection with nature. 



Gardens do more than please our senses. According to a recent study, they serve as lifelines for vital pollinators, especially when farmland nectar is scarce.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-gardens-in-nature">The role of gardens in nature</h2>



Researchers at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a> uncovered an interesting phenomenon. They discovered that gardens aren’t just decorative spaces. They are essential sources of nourishment for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollinators-are-not-just-attracted-to-plants-by-scent-but-also-by-humidity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a>.



These natural patches provide an abundance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honeybees-carrying-nectar-avoid-overheating-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nectar</a> - a vital pollinator lifeline during early spring and late summer when there is less farmland nectar.



During these crucial times, gardens meet 50% to 95% of a pollinator’s nectar needs. This highlights the importance of gardens in rural and urban areas. They help maintain healthy populations of bees, flies, butterflies, and other pollinators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-are-gardens-good-for-pollinators">Why are gardens good for pollinators?</h2>



Study lead author Dr. Thomas Timberlake is a senior research associate in Bristol’s&nbsp;School of Biological Sciences.



"It’s well known that gardens and urban areas can be great places for pollinators like bees, flies, and butterflies. In fact, past research shows that cities often have more types and numbers of pollinators than farming areas," said Dr. Timberlake. 



"There's also evidence that pollinator populations are healthier in rural areas when they're close to small towns or villages, so we know gardens are good for pollinators, but we don't fully understand why."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gardens-a-steady-source-of-nectar">Gardens: A steady source of nectar</h2>



The team set out to explore what makes gardens vital havens for pollinators. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-majority-of-global-farmland-is-at-risk-of-pesticide-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Farmland</a> offers high quantities of nectar but lacks stability and continuity. 



Gardens contribute less than 15 percent of the total nectar in rural areas, but their constant supply makes them invaluable pollinator food sources.



In the UK, more than 90 percent of farmland lies within one kilometer of a garden, which greatly extends the reach of the benefits that gardens have to offer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-individuals-can-make-a-difference">Individuals can make a difference </h2>



The study drives home a message of responsibility and hope. 



"Many people feel powerless when it comes to fighting biodiversity loss, thinking it's too big of a problem to tackle on their own. But our study shows that individual citizens can make a big difference," said Dr. Timberlake.



By maintaining a pollinator-friendly garden with flowers blooming throughout the year, especially in early spring and late summer, anyone can support pollinators.



This individual effort resonates beyond the gardens' fences and benefits ecosystems at large.



“People can support pollinators in their gardens and surrounding farmland by simply making sure their garden has pollinator-friendly flowers blooming throughout the year - especially in early spring and late summer, when pollinators are hungriest,” noted Dr. Timberlake.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-pollinator-conservation">The future of pollinator conservation</h2>



The team aims to explore specific plants that fill the nectar void during seasonal hunger gaps, and if gardens should be incorporated into future environmental stewardship programs.



If scientists find that gardens benefit pollinators more than just in farmland habitats, it paves the way for more pollinator-friendly gardens in rural areas. With millions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gardeners-can-make-small-changes-to-benefit-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gardeners</a> in the UK, the potential for individual action is massive.



"For the 27 million gardeners in the UK, this study highlights just how important their gardens can be in helping to reverse the decline of pollinators," said Dr. Timberlake.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-gardens-and-pollinator-conservation">Urban gardens and pollinator conservation</h2>



With urban areas expanding, gardens are essential for pollinator conservation. In cities with scarce natural habitats, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-gardens-provide-a-reliable-food-supply-for-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban gardens</a> provide green spaces that support biodiversity.



Research indicates that pollinators thrive in urban environments with gardens filled with flowering plants that offer nectar throughout the year.



These green pockets are stepping stones for pollinators, helping species like bees and butterflies traverse the concrete landscape.



By promoting the creation of pollinator-friendly gardens, urban residents contribute to building a network of habitats that enhance the beauty of their surroundings while ensuring the survival of pollinators.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2024.1523" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a>.



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Gardens help pollinators survive seasonal food shortages

When you walk past a garden, it is easy to...

A recent study led by the University of Mississippi has made significant strides in understanding animal emotions through an innovative approach.&nbsp;



Partnering with researchers from the United Kingdom, the experts focused on how vocalizations from domestic chicks can indicate stress levels, potentially offering new ways to improve animal welfare in the poultry industry.&nbsp;



The findings reveal insights that could benefit not only animals but also human mental health research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chick-vocalizations-and-animal-welfare">Chick vocalizations and animal welfare</h2>



The study's core experiment was simple yet revealing: placing one <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chicks-can-identify-an-object-just-by-touching-it-even-in-the-dark/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chick</a> in a box by itself and another in a box with a mirror. 



The chick that could see its reflection believed it was not alone and emitted calm calls, while the solitary chick produced louder, higher-pitched sounds - an indicator of anxiety-like states.&nbsp;



The team used advanced acoustic equipment to measure the changes in the quality of these vocalizations, aiming to link them to stress levels.



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



The results of this study have broader implications for improving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-welfare-biggest-concern-people-making-food-choices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">welfare</a> practices in the meat and egg production industry. 



According to co-author Kenneth Sufka, a professor of psychology and pharmacology at the <a href="https://olemiss.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Mississippi</a>, monitoring the stress of animals like chickens, swine, and cattle through their vocalizations could be a valuable tool for ensuring humane conditions in commercial facilities. 



“Is this a worthwhile thing, to be thinking about using acoustics to monitor animal welfare in these production facilities? I think so,” Sufka said, highlighting the potential for this method to be applied in practical settings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-emotions-in-animals">Studying emotions in animals</h2>



Lead author Sarah Collins, an associate professor of animal behavior at the <a href="https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Plymouth</a>, emphasized the importance of the findings in understanding animal sentience.



“This is more evidence of animal sentience - the ability to experience feelings,” she said. The ability to assess how stressed an animal is through vocal cues could allow for more precise measures of their welfare.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-stress-in-chick-peeps">Measuring stress in chick peeps</h2>



Beyond animal welfare, this research offers a noninvasive and cost-effective method for studying anxiety-like states in animals other than chicks. 



Traditional methods of assessing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-eats-away-our-brains-cognitive-defenses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> involve capturing animals, taking blood samples, and measuring corticosterone, a stress hormone - a process that can itself induce stress. 



Sufka points out the advantage of their method: “That itself is stressful - to capture, restrain, collect, release. This, we think, is a better way.”



This approach is particularly relevant for testing medications intended for human use.&nbsp;



Since chicks are often used in early stages of research for anxiety and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-adult-depression-linked-to-worse-memory-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a> medications, being able to accurately measure their stress levels could lead to more effective treatments. 



“To claim that an anti-anxiety drug is alleviating an anxiety-like state, this chick or mouse or rat has to have an anxiety state similar to yours,” Sufka said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ethical-questions-about-animal-welfare-nbsp">Ethical questions about animal welfare&nbsp;</h2>



The research also touches on deeper ethical questions regarding the emotional capacities of animals and their rights.&nbsp;



Historically, animals have been considered less emotionally complex than humans, leading to a perception that they have fewer needs.&nbsp;



However, the recent findings suggest that animals like chickens do experience negative emotional states.&nbsp;



“My argument is that all of the work that we have done to-date shows the similarities between this avian model and human anxiety and depressive states makes a very strong argument that these animals do have negative emotional states,” Sufka explained.



“If that's true, then ethically it follows that we are absolutely obligated to be worried about animal welfare and provide for the best living conditions possible.”&nbsp;



This perspective underscores the importance of ensuring that animals under human care live in conditions that support their well-being.



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



Sufka’s research opens the door to new methods of understanding and improving the lives of animals, both in agricultural settings and in research environments.&nbsp;



By providing a clearer picture of how animals like chicks experience stress, this study could shape future standards of care and deepen our understanding of the emotional lives of animals.&nbsp;



The implications extend beyond barns and laboratories, touching on the fundamental ways we relate to the animals around us and the ethical responsibilities that follow.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2024.106359" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Applied Behaviour Science</a>.



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Chick emotions shed new light on animal welfare

A recent study led by the University of Mississippi has...

While insects like stink bugs and mosquitoes might not be liked by many people, they play an essential role in maintaining the balance of Earth's ecosystems. 



E.O. Wilson, a renowned biologist, once emphasized their importance by stating that if insects were to vanish, the environment would collapse. 



However, scientists have recently observed a decline in insect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-insect-decline-what-are-the-causes-and-consequences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a>, with numbers dropping by 2-3% annually, alongside shifts in their behavior. 



This decline has driven researchers to explore potential causes, including habitat loss, climate change, and the effects of chemicals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effects-of-agrochemicals-on-insects">Effects of agrochemicals on insects</h2>



A study led by researchers from the <a href="https://www.embl.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Molecular Biology Laboratory</a> (EMBL) sought to understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pesticides-travel-far-and-wide-endangering-aquatic-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pesticides</a>, herbicides, and other agrochemicals influence insect populations. 



Using more than 1,000 chemical compounds from EMBL’s unique chemical library, they systematically exposed fruit fly larvae to assess changes in their development, behavior, and survival throughout their life cycle.



The research revealed that 57% of the tested chemicals significantly altered fruit fly larvae behavior, even when the doses were not lethal. At higher exposure levels, the long-term survival of the flies was further compromised.&nbsp;



“We found that when we exposed larvae to very low doses of chemicals, the exposure caused widespread changes in physiological processes that are at the heart of how they develop and behave,” said lead author Lautaro Gandara, a postdoctoral fellow at EMBL.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-temperatures-chemicals-and-insects-nbsp">Rising temperatures, chemicals, and insects&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers also examined the effects of rising temperatures on these changes, simulating global warming trends.



To assess the influence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insect-size-shaped-by-predators-and-temperature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature</a>, the team gradually increased the growing environment's temperature, starting at 25°C (77°F) and raising it to 29°C (84.2°F). At this higher temperature, they observed a more pronounced impact on the larvae. 



“Further, we mixed some of the most commonly detected airborne chemicals, at ecologically relevant doses, again exposing fruit flies from when they first hatched. We then saw a much stronger effect,” said senior author Justin Crocker, a biologist at EMBL.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neurological-and-physiological-disruptions-nbsp">Neurological and physiological disruptions&nbsp;</h2>



These effects included a 60% reduction in egg-laying rates and the emergence of altered behaviors like “hunching.”



Hunching, where larvae curl their bodies excessively, can indicate stress or toxicity and may point to underlying neurological or physiological disruptions.&nbsp;



“On the surface, hunching may seem inconsequential, but even small changes in behavior can impact fitness if they adversely affect feeding, mating, and migration,” Crocker explained.&nbsp;



While the connection between hunching and reduced egg-laying remains unclear, it is likely that larvae preoccupied with such behaviors would struggle to thrive in the wild.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-impact-on-insect-behavior-nbsp">Chemical impact on insect behavior&nbsp;</h2>



The study involved collaboration with several scientists, including Jean-Baptiste Masson and François Laurent from the <a href="https://www.pasteur.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pasteur Institute</a>, who provided AI-based tools to analyze behavioral changes. 



Additional partners included <a href="https://www.heidelberg-university-hospital.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heidelberg University Hospital</a> and <a href="https://www.gwu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">George Washington University</a>, where the experiments were expanded to mosquitoes and Painted Lady butterflies. 



These efforts helped confirm that similar patterns emerged across different insect species, reinforcing the study’s conclusions.



“Insects - even those that can seem like pests - are critical to the planet. They pollinate the plants we eat and they’re an important part of the food web,” Gandara noted.&nbsp;



The research sheds light on how even low doses of chemicals can have significant impacts on insect behavior and survival. This deeper understanding provides a clearer picture of the challenges insects face and the factors contributing to their decline.



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



The study’s findings have significant implications for understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/groundwater-plays-critical-role-ecosystem-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem health</a> and balance. 



As insect populations dwindle, genetic diversity decreases, making it harder for species to adapt to environmental changes. This threatens not only food webs but also the resilience of ecosystems against future challenges.



“The positive aspect to this work is that we have new knowledge about which chemicals can cause certain molecular changes and associated behavioral and developmental changes,” Crocker said.&nbsp;



This knowledge could inform regulatory practices and industrial approaches that better protect both human health and the environment.&nbsp;



By understanding the subtle but crucial ways chemicals affect insects, scientists can help create a more balanced approach to pesticide use, aiming for practices that support the health of these vital creatures.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.ado0251" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Chemicals are changing insects in subtle yet deadly ways

While insects like stink bugs and mosquitoes might not be...

When you think of devoted helpers in the bird kingdom, it's the females who are likely to nab the attention. It seems female birds are hard-wired to nurture and provide, not just for their own brood but also for their family groups. 



However, males take a different flight path - their focus often lies elsewhere; they are the seekers and explorers, busy scouting for opportunities to expand and create new homes, according to a new study on birds and their families.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-family-dynamics-of-birds">Family dynamics of birds</h2>



Did you know that the white-browed sparrow weavers, a species of bird residing in the arid Kalahari desert, live in family groups where only a dominant pair breeds? 



The offspring, more so the female ones, help feed the young nestlings. This extraordinary family dynamic led scientists at the Centre for Ecology and Conservation at the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a> to investigate why one sex would invest more in family care than the other.



“Female sparrow-weaver helpers contribute more to cooperative nestling care than males and also stay for longer in their family groups than males,” said Dr Pablo Capilla-Lasheras, who led the study during his PhD at Exeter and now works at the Swiss Ornithological Institute.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-behavior-and-family-care">Bird behavior and family care </h2>



The scientists wanted to get to the bottom of why such discrepancies in cooperation arose across the animal kingdom. The prevailing hypothesis was simple - the sex that lives longer within its family group cooperates more since they benefit more from mutual aid over time. 



For instance, the sex residing the longest in the family group might receive more assistance from the family members they have cared for previously. The sex that departs sooner may not get the same support.



However, after extensive research spanning over a decade, which included monitoring the birds' cooperative behaviors and tracking their movements, the team learned that this might not be the case.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-male-birds-abandon-families">Male birds abandon families</h2>



“Our findings point instead to an alternative explanation that has attracted much less attention,” said Dr. Andrew Young, who leads the Kalahari sparrow-weaver project.



“Instead, males appear to help less because they spend more time prospecting for opportunities to live and breed elsewhere, and these efforts trade-off against their investments in cooperation at home.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolving-through-trade-offs">Evolving through trade-offs</h2>



According to the findings, the team proposes this "dispersal trade-off hypothesis" might be a more universal explanation for the evolution of sex differences in cooperation across <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/female-birds-need-a-male-hormone-for-sexual-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal societies</a>.



This contradicts the more widely acknowledged view that the longer you stay, the more you'll benefit from having helped out.



It seems that the fundamental challenge that all organisms face is a simple one – there is never enough time or energy to do everything well at once. However, overcoming these trade-offs is what propels evolution forward.



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



The insights from this study offer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-extinctions-shatter-the-harmonious-balance-of-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">valuable implications for conservationists</a> aiming to protect social bird species. Understanding the innate behaviors that drive males and females differently can aid in crafting strategies to maintain and support sustainable populations. 



For example, if certain male birds are particularly prone to dispersal, creating corridors or safe passes to facilitate their movement may prevent habitat fragmentation and ensure genetic diversity in families. 



Concurrently, supporting the female role in nurturing and resource distribution within the group could enhance the survival odds for new generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behavior-of-bird-families">Behavior of bird families</h2>



The findings of this research open avenues for broader applications beyond the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-are-moving-north-and-breeding-earlier-in-a-changing-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">avian world</a>, offering a foundational perspective on how sex-specific roles could influence social structures in diverse animal societies. 



The dispersal trade-off hypothesis can prompt new investigations into species where familial cooperation and individual dispersion play pivotal roles in survival and reproduction.



By analyzing these patterns, biologists can better comprehend the balance between cooperation and independence required for thriving animal communities, with potential lessons applicable to human social dynamics as well. 



Insight into these mechanisms of cooperation and dispersal can provide profound understanding into the strategies animals employ in the natural world, guiding future studies on evolutionary biology and ecology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-acts-in-birds">Balancing acts in birds</h2>



As we fly to the end of our discussion, we see that in the bird world, as in ours, there are fascinating balances between family duties, ambition, and opportunity. 



Female birds lean towards nurturing their family, while males are driven to explore and seek out new breeding opportunities. In the end, it is a balancing act that keeps life diverse and species evolving.



It makes us wonder, are these differences merely the result of bird instincts, or could they be part of a broader spectrum of survival strategies shared across the animal kingdom?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosbiology/article?id=10.1371/journal.pbio.3002859" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLoS Biology</a>.



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Female birds commit to caring for young; males abandon family life

When you think of devoted helpers in the bird kingdom,...

Have you ever wondered why animals engage in group hunting only to divide the spoils later? Turns out, there's more to it than just the thrill of the chase.



A research team from the Cluster of Excellence Science of Intelligence (SCIoI) embarked on an aquatic adventure to answer this question.



In collaboration with experts at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (HU Berlin) and the Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB), the team dived into the ocean off the coast of Mexico to observe the striped marlin's hunting strategies in nature's wildest theater.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-the-catch">What's the catch?</h2>



Interestingly enough, it all boils down to the speed of the prey. The faster the prey school flees, the higher the capture rate.



Why? Because as the school scurries away at a high pace, individual fish are more likely to break away from the pack. And these lonesome <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unexpected-discovery-large-sharks-are-hunting-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish</a> are nothing less than easy pickings for the non-attacking marlins.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advantage-of-group-hunting">Advantage of group hunting</h2>



On dry land, there is evidence showing that predators have a higher success rate when they chase groups of prey - targeting the slower, weaker animals that fall behind. The question was whether this strategy applies to the open ocean.



“Little is known on this topic for predators that hunt in groups in the open sea, as it is difficult to record the attack and capture rates of several predators together with the positions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/does-hunting-fishing-connect-humans-with-nature-or-reinforce-superiority-complex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators and prey</a>,” explained&nbsp;Professor Jens Krause, a behavioral ecologist and co-first author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-speed-in-group-hunting">Need for speed in group hunting</h2>



Meet the striped marlin (Kajikia audax), one of the ocean's most epic hunters. These behemoths, armed with spear-like mouth appendages, are renowned for their cooperative hunting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orcas-have-hunting-and-eating-habits-that-we-never-imagined/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">strategy</a> to round up schools of small fish.



Using intricate underwater and aerial photography, the research team took to the seas, observing the marlins' movements while hunting approximately 30 kilometers off the coast of northern Mexico.



The experts collected data on the attack and capture rates during different states of the prey school's movements.



The researchers found that chasing schools of prey at high speed resulted in a greater number of isolated targets for the marlins. The likelihood of a fish breaking away from the school was directly associated with the speed of the school.



An increase of just 0.1 meters per second in the school's speed boosted the probability of isolation by a whopping 18 percent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-group-cohesion-among-prey">Group cohesion among prey</h2>



Understanding the dynamics of group cohesion among prey is crucial to comprehending the hunting success of predators like the striped marlin. 



In schools of fish, cohesion serves as a defense mechanism, decreasing the likelihood of any individual being singled out. This collective movement disrupts predator-promoting strategies, creating a bewildering spectacle of flashes and turns. 



However, as marlins capitalized on disorder within the ranks, it raises intriguing questions about the nexus of cooperation and competition within both predator and prey communities. 



The marlin's ability to exploit breaks in cohesion demonstrates nature's intricate checks and balances, where equilibrium often dictates survival and success.



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



The work led by <a href="https://www.scienceofintelligence.de" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SCIoI</a>, <a href="https://www.hu-berlin.de/de" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HU Berlin</a>, and <a href="https://www.igb-berlin.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IGB</a> delivers vital implications for understanding marine ecosystems and the role of apex predators like the striped marlin. 



By highlighting the importance of water dynamics and prey behavior in shaping predator-prey interactions, this research sheds light on the delicate balance of aquatic food webs. 



The findings emphasize the interconnectedness within marine ecosystems and highlight the potential impacts of environmental changes on predator efficacy and prey vulnerability. 



As climate change alters ocean temperatures and currents, continued exploration of these dynamics is essential to predict and mitigate future ecological shifts, ensuring the health and resilience of marine biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advantage-of-rapid-group-hunting">Advantage of rapid group hunting </h2>



The marlins' group hunting strategy doesn't necessarily mean every marlin has to actively chase the school. Fish that become isolated from the school are quickly snapped up by nearby marlins. 



According to Korbinian Pacher, a behavioral biologist and co-first author of the study, the research clearly shows the advantage of rapid group hunting for predatory fish.



“The rapid movement of the swarm of prey makes it easier to isolate and catch individual fish. This significantly increases the hunting success of the group of marlins,” noted Pacher. 



Dr Matthew J. Hansen, who led the study, said that another interesting aspect of group hunting at high speed is that in this form of hunting, prey also falls to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-animal-day-2024-building-a-legacy-of-compassion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> that are not actively attacking the prey school.



"This effect probably favors group hunting in striped marlins and may be a principle that applies to many large predatory fish in the open sea that join together to hunt schooling fish," concluded Dr. Hansen. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1365-2435.14638" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Functional Ecology</a>.



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Striped marlin demonstrate the advantages of group hunting

Have you ever wondered why animals engage in group hunting...

Enigmas of life are often hidden in unexpected places, and the python offers a fascinating glimpse into the mysteries of human physiology. Surprisingly, we can find answers to human intestinal regeneration by studying the remarkable pythons.



Let's unravel the intriguing connection between the regenerative abilities of boas, pythons, and the human digestive system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intestinal-regeneration-humans-and-pythons">Intestinal regeneration, humans, and pythons</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toxic-chemicals-from-food-production-pass-into-the-human-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human body</a> is a marvel of nature, constantly replenishing itself. A prime example of this is the lining of our intestines. Our bodies regularly repair and replace it to keep up with our dietary needs. 



This turnover of cells is driven by stem cells that originate in the tiny pits scattered throughout our intestine known as intestinal crypts.



However, the same mechanism doesn't apply to all creatures. A case in point is infrequently feeding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/move-over-burmese-pythons-these-snakes-are-the-true-eating-champions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snakes</a> like boas and pythons. These creatures don't have intestinal crypts but display a considerable degree of intestinal regeneration.



Without a meal for weeks, their intestines shrink and become practically non-functional. Within 48 hours of feeding, though, their intestines radically regenerate, more than doubling in mass and reforming the cells and structures necessary for food digestion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regeneration-ability-of-pythons">Regeneration ability of pythons</h2>



A team of scientists from <a href="https://www.uta.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The University of Texas at Arlington</a>, <a href="https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UT Southwestern Medical Center</a>, and <a href="https://www.ua.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the University of Alabama</a> embarked on an intriguing journey to uncover how these massive snakes accomplish this feat. 



They focused on understanding the intestinal regeneration process in pythons hoping that this would provide valuable insights into human gastrointestinal diseases like diabetes, celiac disease, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-with-pet-dogs-have-a-lower-risk-of-crohns-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Crohn's disease</a>, and cancer.



The researchers used single-cell RNA sequencing to investigate. The key discovery was that pythons use conserved pathways similar to those found in humans but trigger them uniquely.



The study further revealed that the signaling pathways directing python regeneration bear significant resemblance to the ones seen in humans after undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery for weight loss and type 2 diabetes treatment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shedding-light-on-best4-cells">Shedding light on BEST4+ cells</h2>



The researchers also highlighted the significance of a particular intestinal cell type called BEST4+ cells.



These cells, present in both pythons and humans but absent in commonly studied mammals like mice, are powerful orchestrators of the initial phases of regeneration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zooming-out-to-the-bigger-picture">Zooming out to the bigger picture</h2>



The findings unearthed in this study have profound implications for understanding intestinal physiology across varied species, including humans. 



They offer a fresh perspective on the intersections between intestinal regeneration and the body's metabolic adjustments in response to changes like nutrient availability and stress. 



These insights may ultimately lead to novel therapeutic approaches for treating intestinal or metabolic diseases.



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



In the end, the question remains, can studying snakes boost our comprehension of human health? According to the scientists, the answer is a resounding "yes."



By expanding our knowledge about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-humans-have-shockingly-different-digestive-systems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digestive functions</a> in different creatures, we gain a broader understanding of the evolutionary design of these vital body functions. 



This knowledge will shape our perception of the human body with the ultimate aim of enhancing the treatment and prevention of many common human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-tool-detects-changes-in-gut-health-to-help-prevent-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digestive disorders</a>.



The world within us is intricate and incredibly dynamic. As we explore into it, aided by unexpected allies like pythons, we continue to unravel intriguing stories that could illuminate the path to healthier lives for millions around the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harnessing-python-regeneration">Harnessing python regeneration </h2>



The potential for translating python intestinal regeneration into human medical treatments is an exciting frontier. 



By understanding how pythons regenerate their intestines so rapidly and efficiently, researchers believe this knowledge can be applied to develop new therapies for gastrointestinal disorders.



The unique pathways activated during python regeneration may hold the key to stimulating similar processes in humans, allowing for faster recovery from injuries or surgeries.



Furthermore, the discovery of BEST4+ cells, which play a critical role in both python and human regeneration, opens the door to targeted therapies that could harness these cells’ natural regenerative powers. 



By exploring these biological parallels, scientists hope to one day engineer treatments that can mimic the extraordinary healing abilities found in the animal kingdom, ultimately improving human health.



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Python gut regeneration offers clues for treating human diseases

Enigmas of life are often hidden in unexpected places, and...

Coral reefs are the ocean's vibrant underwater cities, and they face a growing crisis. These ecosystems support countless marine species and over a billion human lives. 



Overfishing, irresponsible tourism, coastal construction, nutrient runoff, and climate change are all threats to coral reefs.



However, hope is not lost. In a recent study, scientists used the sounds of healthy reefs to coax new coral species into existence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reef-sounds-and-coral-restoration">Reef sounds and coral restoration</h2>



Scientists at the <a href="https://www.whoi.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution</a> discovered the sounds of a flourishing reef inspire a new generation of coral life. Their research focused on golfball <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-superhighway-connects-remote-coral-reefs-seychelles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral larvae</a>, tiny organisms that signal the birth of new corals.



The sounds of the reef draw the larvae and they choose to settle and grow in these areas.



“Acoustic enrichment is continuing to show promise as a technique to enhance coral settlement rates,” said Nadège Aoki, a doctoral candidate at the institution.



This technique worked on two coral species and indicates potential as a broad-based tool for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restored-coral-reefs-can-bounce-back-in-just-four-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reef restoration</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-the-language-of-corals">Decoding the language of corals</h2>



The underwater journey of a coral larvae is fascinating. Searching for the perfect place to mature into adulthood, the tiny organisms drift through the ocean. They use cues from chemicals, light, and sound to choose their new home.



A <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-coral-reefs-crackle-with-the-sounds-of-busy-inhabitants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthy coral reef</a> is a symphony of purrs and grunts from fish, along with the persistent crackle of snapping shrimp. It is music to a coral larva's ears.



On the other hand, a sick, silent reef signals the organisms to keep searching.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-draw-of-healthy-reef-sounds">The draw of healthy reef sounds </h2>



In an experiment in the summer of 2022, Aoki and her team collected golfball coral larvae from the U.S. Virgin Islands.



The scientists divided the larvae and placed them in two quiet, sandy bays. One bay had a solar-powered speaker playing the sounds of a nearby healthy reef. 



After 24 hours, about 30 percent of the larvae exposed to the sounds settled and began to grow. After 48 hours, the settlement rates were around 73 to 85 percent.



Despite the experiment's small scale, a similar tank-based experiment echoed the results. 



Golfball coral larvae showed significantly higher settlement rates when exposed to healthy reef sounds during their first 36 hours. After this window, the settling rate remained the same regardless of the sound cues.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crunch-time-for-coral-settlement">Crunch time for coral settlement</h2>



Senior author and marine biologist Aran Mooney explained the time-sensitivity of this process. “Acoustic enrichment worked for 36 hours or so. After that, they seem desperate to settle, and healthy cues become less important.”



Golfball corals have a short window of opportunity in their larval stage. Without the resources to float around for weeks, they settle within 8 to 36 hours of being released into the water.



Early on, sound cues play a crucial role. As time runs out, they settle anywhere.



“We’re getting at some of the nuances of coral biology,” Aoki said. “There’s a huge range of reproductive strategies that corals use, and different species have different larval periods. We’re opening up this broad range of questions about how responsiveness to sound will vary between species.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-symphony-for-coral-reef-restoration">A symphony for coral reef restoration</h2>



The researchers also noted corals responded to auditory cues in tanks where sound reflections, aerators, and water filters make acoustics less ideal. This discovery simplified the process of getting corals to reproduce and settle in land-based <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-nurseries-need-protection-equal-to-that-of-established-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nurseries</a>.



There is no single solution suitable for all coral species worldwide. Aoki and her team believe acoustic enrichment combined with an understanding of local ecology and coral biology can be an effective tool for restoration.



“Finding a second species settling in response to sound shows that this isn’t just a one-off, and maybe we can really scale this up,” Mooney said. 



“But we can’t just throw a speaker over the side of a boat and think it’s going to work. We have to know the system and it has to be integrated with other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unexpected-coral-adaptations-challenge-conservation-plans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> and restoration efforts.”



In the quest to protect and restore the ocean’s coral reefs, the solution might lie not in our hands, but in our ears as the tiny organisms listen to the symphony of life produced by reefs.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.aip.org/asa/jel/article/4/10/107701/3317630/Replayed-reef-sounds-induce-settlement-of-Favia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JASA Express Letters</a>.



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Healthy reef sounds inspire coral larvae growth

Coral reefs are the ocean's vibrant underwater cities, and they...

<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.



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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.



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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.



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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>



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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.



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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>.



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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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<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;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

[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...

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.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



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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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



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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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;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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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;



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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"

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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;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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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



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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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



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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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)



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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