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...

Small apes known as crested gibbons are capturing attention with their exuberant dance moves. Researchers believe that this dancing is not just random, but is an intentional action which plays a crucial role in communication among crested gibbons.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-allure-of-gibbon-dances">Allure of gibbon dances</h2>



For anyone who has visited a zoo, the sight of female crested gibbons engrossed in choreographed sequences of twitching movements may be familiar.



Using their rumps, arms, and legs, these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/apes-use-gestures-similar-to-human-body-language/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates perform</a> in a way that's reminiscent of a human dance. 



Crested gibbons are found both in captivity and in the wild, impressing audiences with their eye-catching dance routines.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-the-dance-of-gibbons">Science behind the dance of gibbons</h2>



The dance of the crested gibbons has not attracted significant scientific attention in the past. But now, a study by an international team of researchers has focused on this remarkable behavior.



The research was led by Dr. Kai R. Caspar from the Institute of Cell Biology at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf (<a href="https://www.hhu.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HHU</a>), Dr. Camille Coye from the <a href="http://www.institutnicod.org/?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institut Jean Nicod</a> in Paris, and Professor Dr. Pritty Patel-Grosz from the <a href="https://www.uio.no/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oslo</a> in Norway.



The experts analyzed the sequence of movements, rhythm, and intentionality, as well as the contexts in which these gibbons choose to dance.



"Our examination of video material from various zoos and rescue centers proves that all species of crested gibbons perform these dances. They represent a common and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/playful-teasing-among-apes-suggests-that-humor-has-ancient-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intentional form of visual communication</a>," said Dr. Coye, who led the study.



The researchers noted that the gibbons often check during a performance to see if they are being watched, suggesting a desire to communicate through their dance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dancing-for-communication">Dancing for communication</h2>



The team found that only mature female gibbons dance, primarily as a form of solicitation for copulation. 



However, the dances are not limited to sexual arousal; they also occur in situations related to non-sexual arousal or frustration. Interestingly, when in captivity, the dances are often directed at humans.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="FeEmeoJAzv-3911865-12187" type="single"]</div>



The team noticed a pattern in the dance movements. "They are often organized in groups of up-down or left-right movements and they follow a clear rhythm. The movement sequences may vary in complexity, depending on the individual," explained Dr. Caspar.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gibbon-dance-vs-human-dance">Gibbon dance vs. human dance</h2>



Observing these dances, one can't help but draw parallels between crested gibbon dances and human dances. However, the researchers believe these practices evolved independently, noting that other species of apes do not display this behavior.



While human dances are primarily influenced by culture and are often accompanied by music or song, the researchers believe that the gibbon dances are likely innate. They also found that music or song does not accompany gibbon dances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-benefits-of-gibbon-dances">Evolutionary benefits of gibbon dances</h2>



The evolutionary origins of the crested gibbons' dances may extend beyond mere communication. Experts have proposed that these captivating performances could confer significant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chimpanzees-use-rapid-gestures-in-conversations-like-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary advantages</a>.



By engaging in these displays, female gibbons may be signaling not only their reproductive readiness but also their genetic fitness, thus attracting higher-quality mating partners. 



The clarity and rhythm of the movements might serve as indicators of neurological health and physical vigor, which are attractive traits from an evolutionary perspective. 



This theory suggests that the dances could play a role in sexual selection, similar to the mating displays found in other animal species.



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



Understanding the dances of crested gibbons also holds implications for their conservation. By recognizing and interpreting these behaviors, conservationists can better gauge the well-being and social dynamics of gibbon populations, both in the wild and in captivity.



Behavioral observations can offer insights into the effectiveness of conservation strategies, potentially highlighting the need for enrichment activities that acknowledge the gibbons' natural communicative behaviors. 



Moreover, increased awareness and appreciation of such unique behaviors may bolster public support for gibbon conservation efforts. 



As researchers continue to explore these dances, it enriches our broader understanding of primate behavior and communication, shedding light on the complexities of non-human animal cognition and social structures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-to-watch-the-dance">Where to watch the dance</h2>



This dancing behavior was discovered by chance, but now it is being reported from various zoos, noted Dr. Caspar.



To catch a glimpse of these dancing gibbons, one can visit the Duisburg Zoo or Burgers’ Zoo in Arnhem in the Netherlands, among other locations.



So, the next time you see female crested gibbons swaying in an intriguing dance, remember there's more than meets the eye. This mesmerizing dance is not just an amusing display but also a complex and essential form of communication in the fascinating world of these gibbons.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10329-024-01154-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Primates</a>.



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Amazing video: Crested gibbons communicate with incredible dance moves

Small apes known as crested gibbons are capturing attention with...

In 1898, an encampment of bridge builders on the Tsavo River in Kenya felt tremors of terror. The cause? Two massive and maneless male lions had decided to make the camp their nightly haunt.



This is not about a couple of wandering cats. This is about two fearless, hefty creatures that took the darkness as a shroud to raid tents and drag off victims.



The infamous man-eating lions of Tsavo were said to have killed at least 28 people before Lt. Colonel John Henry Patterson, the civil engineer of the project, put an end to their reign of terror.



These lions weren't forgotten, however. In 1925, Patterson sold their remains to the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago. Fast forward to the present day, these remains have become the subjects of an intriguing study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tsavo-man-eating-lions">Tsavo man-eating lions</h2>



Recently, researchers from the Field Museum collaborated with scientists at the <a href="https://illinois.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign</a> to shed light on some previously unexplored aspects of these lions. 



The experts used microscopy and genomics to identify some of the species the Tsavo man-eaters consumed.



The findings, now published in the journal Current Biology, uncover compelling new details about these maneless <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honoring-the-king-of-the-jungle-on-world-lion-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-hairs-in-lions-teeth">Human hairs in lions' teeth </h2>



The original discovery of the hairs began in the early 1990s by Thomas Gnoske - a collections manager at the Field Museum. While examining the lions' skulls for signs of their dietary habits, Gnoske made several intriguing discoveries.



He was the first to conclude that despite being maneless, these lions were fully grown older adult males. In addition, he uncovered that thousands of broken and compacted hairs had accumulated in their damaged teeth throughout their lifetimes.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="Photo Z94320 courtesy Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/lion_man-eating_teeth-damaged_credit-FMNH-chicago_1s.webp" alt="The lions' teeth were damaged during their lifetimes. Study co-author Thomas Gnoske found thousands of hairs embedded in the exposed cavities of the broken teeth. Credit: Photo Z94320 courtesy Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago" class="wp-image-1947355"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The lions' teeth were damaged during their lifetimes. Study co-author Thomas Gnoske found thousands of hairs embedded in the exposed cavities of the broken teeth. Credit: Photo Z94320 courtesy Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago</figcaption></figure>



In 2001, Gnoske, along with Julian Kerbis Peterhans, a professor at <a href="https://www.roosevelt.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Roosevelt University</a> and Field Museum adjunct curator, first reported on the damaged condition of the lions' teeth and the presence of hairs embedded in the exposed cavities. 



Initial analysis suggested the hairs were from eland, impala, oryx, porcupine, warthog, and zebra.



Fast forward to the present day, and the recent study has enabled a more in-depth examination of the hairs. The microscopic analysis was conducted by Ogeto Mwebi, a senior research scientist at the National Museums of Kenya; and Nduhiu Gitahi, a researcher at the <a href="https://www.uonbi.ac.ke" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Nairobi</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dna-investigation-of-lions-in-tsavo">DNA investigation of lions in Tsavo</h2>



Alida de Flamingh and Ripan S. Malhi from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign led a genomic investigation of the hairs. They focused on four individual hairs and three clumps extracted from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/steller-sea-lions-threatened-by-rising-mercury-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lions</a>' teeth.



The investigation revealed familiar signs of age-related degradation in the nuclear DNA remnants in the lions' teeth. Once authenticated, de Flamingh geared her focus towards mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA).



This type of DNA is inherited from the mother side and can be used to trace lineage through time. So, why focus on mtDNA? For one, it's more abundant than nuclear DNA in cells and easier to reconstruct in potential prey species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dna-of-tsavo-s-man-eating-lions">DNA of Tsavo's man-eating lions</h2>



The researchers built a database of mtDNA profiles of potential prey species and compared them with the mtDNA profiles obtained from the hairs. 



“We were even able to get DNA from fragments that were shorter than the nail on your pinky finger,” noted de Flamingh.



“Traditionally, when people want to get DNA from hairs, they’ll focus on the follicle, which is going to have a lot of nuclear DNA in it,” Malhi said. “But these were fragments of hair shafts that were more than 100 years old.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lions-dietary-preferences-revealed">Lions' dietary preferences revealed</h2>



Analysis of the hair DNA identified giraffe, human, oryx, waterbuck, wildebeest, and zebra as prey. Interestingly, there were also hairs that originated from other lions.



The findings suggested that the lions were siblings and had consumed at least two giraffes, besides a zebra likely from the Tsavo region.



Surprisingly, there was even wildebeest mtDNA present. This was unexpected, as the nearest wildebeest population during the late 1890s was about 50 miles away. 



In contrast, the absence of buffalo DNA and the presence of only a single buffalo hair was also unexpected. Today, buffalo is the preferred prey for lions in Tsavo.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-history-and-science">Linking history and science</h2>



Perhaps the most moving part of this story is the connection to the past. Julian Kerbis Peterhans mentioned a historic facet to this investigation - a handwritten field journal kept by Colonel Patterson during his time in Tsavo.



Patterson's accounts didn't mention buffalo or indigenous cattle, most likely because these populations were devastated by a viral disease called rinderpest brought to Africa from India in the early 1880s.



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



Beyond the fascinating insights about the Tsavo man-eaters, this research is a leap forward in scientific exploration. 



We now know that we can reconstruct complete mitochondrial genomes from single hair fragments that are over a century old! And, as there are thousands of hairs compacted in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-and-female-lions-have-different-social-strategies-for-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lions</a>' teeth over time, further analyses might help reconstruct their diet over time and perhaps pinpoint when they began preying on humans.



The study, supported by the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is also a testament to the advancements in biotechnology. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-sources-of-knowledge">Unexpected sources of knowledge </h2>



“As biotechnologies advance, there are unexpected sources of knowledge, in this case genomics, that can be used to inform about the past,” said Ripan Malhi.



“Our results inform on the ecology and diet of lions in the past as well as on the impacts of colonization on life and land in this region of Africa.”



With the methodology created in this study, the possibility of getting DNA from hairs in the broken teeth of more ancient carnivores, dating back hundreds to thousands of years ago, is now a reality. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(24)01240-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Disturbing diets of "man-eating" lions from the 19th century discovered

In 1898, an encampment of bridge builders on the Tsavo...

Beneath the vast waters of the Atlantic Ocean lies a secret that's been waiting to be told. Scientists have revealed images of an asteroid impact crater buried 300 meters under the ocean floor, shedding new light on Earth's distant past.



The person behind this remarkable find is Dr. Uisdean Nicholson, a geologist from <a href="https://www.hw.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heriot-Watt University</a> who has dedicated years to studying the Earth's hidden structures. 



While examining the seabed off the coast of Guinea in West Africa, Nicholson and his team spotted an 8.5-mile-wide depression that piqued their curiosity.



His keen eye led to the discovery of the Nadir Crater, a silent witness to a colossal event from 66 million years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3d-imaging-of-nadir-asteroid-crater">3D imaging of Nadir asteroid crater</h2>



High-resolution, 3D seismic data provided by TGS, a global geophysical company, confirmed their suspicions. 



The data proved that an asteroid, estimated to be between 1,476 and 1,640 feet wide, slammed into Earth at the end of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extraordinary-dinosaur-fossils-discovered-from-the-end-of-cretaceous-era/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cretaceous period</a>.



The new images paint a picture of the catastrophic event.



"We can tell it came from about 20–40 degrees to the northeast, because of spiraling thrust-generated ridges surrounding the crater's central peak -- those are only formed following a low-angle oblique impact," Dr. Nicholson explained.



"And we think it would have hit Earth at about 12 miles per second, or 45,000 miles per hour, although we still need to confirm this with a new set of impact models."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happened-after-the-impact">What happened after the impact</h2>



Using the seismic data, the scientists reconstructed the immediate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nuclear-winter-dinosaurs-were-likely-killed-by-dust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aftermath of the collision</a>. 



They observed the formation of an initial bowl-shaped crater, rocks turning into a fluid-like state and flowing upward, and a damage zone covering thousands of square miles. 



An enormous tsunami, over 2,600 feet high, would have raced across the Atlantic as a result.



"There are around 20 confirmed marine craters worldwide, and none of them has been captured in anything close to this level of detail. It's exquisite," said Dr. Nicholson. 



He likened the advancement in imaging to the evolution of ultrasounds, saying, "We've gone from 2D, fuzzy imaging to amazing high-resolution imaging of the Nadir Crater."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-echoes-of-the-dinosaur-killing-impact">Echoes of the dinosaur-killing impact</h2>



Interestingly, the Nadir Crater is the same age as the 125-mile-wide <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-chicxulub-caused-dinosaurs-extinction-event-traced-to-origin-kuiper-belt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chicxulub impact crater</a> in Mexico, which is widely believed to have led to the extinction of the dinosaurs. 



This raises questions about whether Earth was struck by multiple asteroids around the same time.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/nadir-crater_5-mile-wide_map_credit-CEE_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/nadir-crater_5-mile-wide_map_credit-CEE_1s.webp" alt="Map showing location of Nadir Crater and seismic and well dataset. Credit: Communications Earth &amp; Environment (2024)" class="wp-image-1947351"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Map showing location of Nadir Crater and seismic and well dataset. Credit: Communications Earth &amp; Environment (2024)</figcaption></figure>



The team isn't stopping at images. "We've applied to IODP3, which is a new international drilling program, to drill into the seabed and recover cores from the crater," Dr. Nicholson shared. 



"These will give us more information about the shock pressures experienced during impact and the precise age and sequence of events that occurred after this event."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-asteroid-crater-insights">Asteroid crater insights</h2>



Collaborators are buzzing with excitement. 



"3D seismic images of a fully preserved impact crater are a fantastic research opportunity that can allow us to consider how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-equivalent-of-a-blindfolded-full-court-shot-caused-the-dinosaur-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact processes and craters</a> scale with the size of the impactor both for understanding the evolution of the Earth and other worlds," Dr. Sean Gulick from the <a href="https://www.utexas.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Texas</a> at Austin noted.



"We see pristine impact craters on airless bodies like the moon, but don't have subsurface structural information," Dr. Veronica Bray of the University of Arizona added.



"On the Earth, that is reversed: We have structural data from seismics, field mapping and drill cores, but the craters are usually very eroded at the surface. The new 3D seismic imaging of Nadir gives us both. It's a startlingly good look at an impact crater!"



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-asteroid-threats-today-the-case-of-bennu">Asteroid threats today: The case of Bennu</h2>



While ancient impacts are fascinating, they also serve as a reminder of potential dangers lurking in space. 



The asteroid Bennu, roughly 1,300 feet in diameter, is considered the most hazardous object in near-Earth orbit. 



According to NASA scientists, its total impact probability through the year 2300 is about 1 in 1,750 (or 0.057%).



They've also pinpointed September 24, 2182, as the most significant single date for a potential impact, with a probability of 1 in 2,700 (or about 0.037%). 



It's a sobering thought that events like the one that created the Nadir Crater could happen again.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preparing-for-the-future-by-studying-the-past">Preparing for the future by studying the past</h2>



Dr. Nicholson pointed out, "The closest humans have come to seeing something like this is the 1908 Tunguska event, when a 50-meter asteroid entered Earth's atmosphere and exploded in the skies above Siberia."



The data from the Nadir Crater offers an unprecedented chance to study impact craters in detail. 



"The new 3D seismic data across the whole Nadir Crater is an unprecedented opportunity to test impact crater hypotheses, develop new models of crater formation in the marine environment and understand the consequences of such an event," he said.



This discovery doesn't just peel back layers of sediment, it also peels back layers of time. By exploring the Nadir Crater, scientists hope to unlock secrets about Earth's past and better prepare for future asteroid encounters.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01700-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a>.



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Two massive asteroids may have killed the dinosaurs, not just one

Beneath the vast waters of the Atlantic Ocean lies a...

Seed dispersers are becoming a scarce resource in Europe. A new study reveals that nearly one third of the region's plant species faces an unsettling future due to the decreasing numbers of these essential creatures.



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.uc.pt/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Coimbra</a>, <a href="https://international.au.dk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aarhus University</a>, and the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a> teamed up to explore the world of plant propagation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dwindling-numbers-of-seed-dispersers">Dwindling numbers of seed dispersers</h2>



Many plants depend on animals - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-increase-forest-recovery-by-dispersing-seeds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a>, mammals, reptiles, or insects - to carry their seeds across the landscape, helping them reduce competition and expand their territory.



However, a notable decline in the number of common seed dispersers has raised the question: what impact might this have on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-plants-disperse-their-seeds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> that rely on them? 



The experts have unearthed some alarming information. Published in the journal Science, the findings present a daunting outlook for European plant species.



By establishing a comprehensive seed dispersal network spread across Europe, and comparing it with the population numbers of dispersers, the researchers were able to identify major challenges that European plant life is presently confronting.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symbiotic-relationships-between-plants-and-animals">Symbiotic relationships between plants and animals </h2>



The team dug deep into extensive literature, searching for instances of interactions between plants and their European <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-it-comes-to-seed-survival-trees-have-friends-and-enemies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal dispersers</a>. 



This process led them to identify an astonishing 592 species of plants native to Europe, all of which appear to have evolved alongside their designated seed dispersed. 



Further investigation revealed a list of 398 animals known to disperse seeds, many of whom do so for more than one plant type. 



To add perspective to their findings, the experts compiled over 5,000 pairings of plants and their respective dispersers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-threatened-seed-dispersers">Impact of threatened seed dispersers </h2>



Moving on to the animals, the study made another chilling revelation. Roughly one third of the dispersers identified were classified as threatened or dwindling.



And, as anticipated, the researchers concluded that the same proportion of plant species in Europe could also be experiencing similar declines or even <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increasing-plant-extinction-threatens-the-future-of-medicine-and-human-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">face extinction</a>.



Looking forward, there is a dire need to observe and research changes in ecosystems across Europe, especially transformations already occurring due to the shortages of dispersed. 



Furthermore, in-depth exploration of plant and disperser pairs, particularly involving rare species, remains crucial not just in Europe, but in other regions worldwide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-seed-disperser-decline">Consequences of seed disperser decline</h2>



The decline in seed dispersers doesn’t only affect the plants that rely on them - it has ripple effects across entire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biodiversity-loss-can-lead-to-total-ecosystem-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a>.



As plants struggle to reproduce, other creatures - from herbivores and pollinators to predators - could face shortages of food and habitat.



This cascading effect could disrupt delicate ecological balances, leading to a decline in biodiversity that extends far beyond plants and seed dispersers alone.



The researchers warn that the loss of plant diversity can result in the degradation of soil quality and reduced resilience against climate change.



Plants are essential for capturing carbon, regulating water, and stabilizing soil. If they decline, it could worsen the environmental challenges that Europe and the world are already facing.



Recognizing these ripple effects highlights just how urgent it is to focus conservation efforts on protecting seed dispersers and the plants that depend on them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reversing-the-trend">Reversing the trend</h2>



In light of these findings, conservationists are emphasizing the need for targeted action. Protecting existing habitats and restoring areas where seed dispersers thrive are key strategies to halt the decline.



Governments and environmental organizations are called upon to implement policies that preserve biodiversity and promote the recovery of endangered disperser species. 



This may involve creating wildlife corridors, reducing habitat fragmentation, and regulating land use to minimize the impact on critical ecosystems.



Public awareness and community involvement are also important. Engaging local communities in conservation efforts and educating them on the importance of seed dispersers can build strong community backing for biodiversity protection.



Reversing the trend will require collaboration across borders, as well as a renewed commitment to safeguarding the intricate relationships that allow Europe’s plant life to flourish.



By investing in these efforts, Europe can help ensure a future where both its plants and the creatures that sustain them thrive together.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.ado1464" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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One third of Europe's plants at risk due to decline in seed dispersers

Seed dispersers are becoming a scarce resource in Europe. A...

Have you ever stopped to consider the moon's earthly influence on humans and wildlife? Sure, we're familiar with its role in tides, but it's far from just a celestial object that adorns our night sky.



In a recent twist, a study has found something surprising. The research reveals a startling 45.8 percent spike in wildlife-vehicle collisions during full moon nights.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-collisions-during-full-moon">Wildlife collisions during full moon</h2>



Kentaro Iio, a former Texas A&amp;M student, together with Dr. Dominique Lord, a faculty member in the Zachry <a href="https://engineering.tamu.edu/civil/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering</a>, dug into a decade's worth of Texas collision data.&nbsp;



By comparing full-moon nights to new-moon nights and the respective <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-wildlife-overlap-is-rapidly-rising-across-the-globe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a>-vehicle collisions, they found that non-wildlife collisions during the same timeframes showed no significant change.



This research highlights the importance of being extra careful while driving on full moon nights. It also gives policymakers food for thought about potential improvements to transportation policy and infrastructure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-full-moon-s-impact-on-wildlife">Full moon's impact on wildlife</h2>



"I compared really dark nights without moon illumination (new moon) to really dark nights with the full moon illumination," Iio said. 



"If you include other lunar phases in the analysis, they appear on the horizon at different times each day, making it more difficult for true apples-to-apples comparisons."



Interestingly, this isn't an isolated finding. Other studies conducted in areas such as Spain, Canada and Lithuania reflect similar trends.&nbsp;



"Although the illumination is better, it's still nighttime," said Dr. Lord. "When you drive at night, I'm not sure the illumination from the various perspectives is so much greater compared to daytime."



Although, the suggested explanations vary in each case. Iio and Lord believe the rise in wildlife-vehicle collisions is likely tied a mix of elements, like driver fatigue and increased wildlife activity at night, that play their parts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-city-lights-and-rural-routes">City lights and rural routes</h2>



The study's data was also broken down to illuminate rural and urban areas. Interestingly enough, the capital area of Texas was the only one with a lower relative risk of wildlife-vehicle collisions during a full moon, although the difference wasn't significant.&nbsp;



"Rural areas tended to have higher collision ratios concerning the&nbsp;full moon&nbsp;than&nbsp;urban areas," Iio said.



Despite the study's compelling findings, several areas remain unexplored. For instance, the study didn't identify the types of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-day-using-technology-to-protect-our-natural-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a> involved or account for variations in illumination intensity over the years.&nbsp;



However, incoming studies could fill these gaps and provide a more comprehensive picture.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-collision-prevention-during-full-moon">Wildlife collision prevention during full moon</h2>



Let's not forget, each statistic represents a real-life incident. Hence, potential improvements like increased lighting in rural areas, wildlife warning reflectors or boosted emergency services during full moon nights could save lives.&nbsp;



As technological advancements continue to reshape our world, emerging innovations hold promise in mitigating wildlife-vehicle collisions. For instance, smart road technology integrates sensors and cameras that can detect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-adversity-reduces-life-expectancy-of-most-mammals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife presence</a>, alerting drivers in real-time.&nbsp;



Additionally, advances in vehicle technology, such as automatic braking systems and enhanced night vision capabilities, are playing crucial roles in preventing accidents.&nbsp;



Harnessing these innovations, combined with data-driven approaches, can provide a more robust defense against collision-related incidents on full moon nights and beyond.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-animal-behavior">Understanding animal behavior</h2>



A key component to addressing wildlife-vehicle collisions during full moon nights involves a deeper understanding of animal behavior in different environmental contexts. 



Wildlife activity often escalates during nights illuminated by the full moon, as animals capitalize on the increased visibility for foraging and social interactions. This behavior can vary significantly based on species and local ecological conditions.



By studying these patterns, researchers can develop targeted strategies to mitigate collision risks, such as timing vehicle alerts or implementing seasonal warning systems to correspond with periods of heightened wildlife movement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-awareness-and-education">Public awareness and education</h2>



Beyond technology and data, public awareness and education are critical in reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemists-could-be-key-to-prevent-animal-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a>-vehicle collisions during full moon. 



Educating drivers about the specific risks and challenges posed by driving during full moon nights can empower them to make informed decisions. 



Campaigns aimed at highlighting the importance of slowing down in high-risk areas and adopting defensive driving techniques can be particularly effective. 



Furthermore, involving community stakeholders in these educational efforts can foster a collaborative approach to problem-solving, encouraging local initiatives that tailor preventive measures to specific regional needs.



Ultimately, the Texas A&amp;M study has opened our eyes to an often overlooked realm - how the moon indirectly influences daily lives of humans and wildlife.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1361920924003432?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment</a>.



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Wildlife-vehicle collisions surge during full moon nights

Have you ever stopped to consider the moon's earthly influence...

Most flowering plants rely on animals for pollination, and in tropical regions, over 90% of plant species are pollinated by animals. 



On the Caribbean island of Dominica, researchers have discovered a specific mutualistic relationship between two species of heliconia plants (Heliconia bihai and H. caribaea) and their primary hummingbird pollinator, the purple-throated carib (Eulampis jugularis).&nbsp;



This relationship is so specialized that it has been frequently cited in scientific literature as an example of plant-pollinator co-dependence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-hurricane-maria-nbsp">Impacts of Hurricane Maria&nbsp;</h2>



When Hurricane Maria, a Category 5 storm with sustained winds exceeding 250 kilometers per hour, devastated the region in 2017, it wiped out 75% of the entire E. jugularis population. 



This led scientists to fear that the two heliconia species might face extinction due to the loss of their primary pollinator.



However, a recent paper published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/nph.19938" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a> reveals that other birds have stepped in to pollinate these heliconia plants. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evidence-of-a-resilient-ecosystem-nbsp">Evidence of a resilient ecosystem&nbsp;</h2>



Study co-author Fernando Gonçalves is an expert at the <a href="https://www.cbioclima.org/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Research on Biodiversity Dynamics and Climate Change</a> and a postdoctoral researcher affiliated with Jordi Bascompte’s laboratory at the <a href="https://www.uzh.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Zurich</a> (UZH) in Switzerland.



“In 2022 we studied the region in great detail, analyzing bird-heliconia visitation types and rates, as well as pollen deposition and transportation patterns,” said Gonçalves.



“Our findings pointed to drastic changes: other hummingbird species and also the Bananaquit (Coereba flaveola) had begun to visit and pollinate heliconia flowers at similar rates to E. jugularis or even higher.”



According to Gonçalves, the analysis suggested that the decline in the population of E. jugularis resulted in a breakdown of the competitive exclusion of other species and allowed other birds to become effective pollinators.&nbsp;



“We concluded that specialized pollination systems can become generalized after natural disturbances such as hurricanes, showing that the ecosystem was resilient.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-hummingbird-pollination">Monitoring hummingbird pollination</h2>



The researchers used mist nets to capture birds near the heliconia <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-that-90-of-flowering-plant-species-rely-on-animal-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> and sampled pollen from their beaks and feathers using a special jelly. 



They also set up cameras to monitor the birds visiting the plants and inspected flower stigmas to measure pollen deposition after visits.



“E. jugularis is highly territorial and aggressive. When the population was large, no other bird species could get near the heliconias, but once the population had been reduced to only a quarter of its original size, there weren’t enough individuals to keep other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hummingbirds-have-an-amazing-sense-of-touch-for-precise-navigation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hummingbird</a> species and the Bananaquit away from the plants,” explained Gonçalves.



“These new pollinators are generalists. They collect pollen from several plant species. And the Bananaquit feeds on fruit.”



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



This discovery is significant for two main reasons. First, it had been thought that only E. jugularis could pollinate H. bihai and H. caribaea because the shape of their flowers fits the size and curvature of the hummingbird’s beak.&nbsp;



Female E. jugularis, with their long, curved beaks, are the primary pollinators of H. bihai, while both male and female birds pollinate H. caribaea, despite males having shorter and straighter beaks.



Second, the findings demonstrate that species extinction and ecosystem dynamics are more complex than often assumed. 



The destruction caused by Hurricane Maria disrupted the long-standing co-adaptation between the heliconias and their hummingbird pollinators, allowing other birds to take over.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crucial-insights-into-resilient-ecosystems">Crucial insights into resilient ecosystems</h2>



This suggests that evolutionary processes may not always follow a strict, linear path and can shift in unpredictable ways, especially in the context of the current climate crisis, where extreme events such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-causes-the-rapid-intensification-of-hurricanes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hurricanes</a>, droughts, and floods are becoming more frequent, and species are at greater risk of extinction.



“If no other mass destructions occur on Dominica, we believe the two species of heliconia and E. jugularis may reestablish their exclusive mutualism in 15 to 20 years or so. The population of E. jugularis will have grown again, and there will be plenty of individuals defending their territory,” Gonçalves said.&nbsp;



His team is continuing to conduct research in the area to test this hypothesis and assess how natural events affect evolutionary behaviors in other species. “We’re on the lookout for hurricanes in the region so we can go back there and investigate the consequences.”



This study provides crucial insights into the resilience and adaptability of ecosystems following natural disasters and raises new questions about how species interactions evolve in response to environmental changes.



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Ecosystems are more resilient than expected after natural disasters 

Most flowering plants rely on animals for pollination, and in...

The human-driven extinction of hundreds of bird species over the past 130,000 years has led to a significant depletion in avian functional diversity, according to a new study.



But what does the term "functional diversity" mean? Simply, it refers to the various roles and functions that birds undertake within their environment. From pest control to pollination, our feathered friends play a critical part in maintaining a healthy planet.



The study further reveals that this extinction wave eradicated approximately 3 billion years of unique evolutionary history. That's like cutting off a limb from the tree of life, noted the researchers. But what does this mean for us?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-layers-of-bird-extinction">Layers of bird extinction</h2>



While it's true that humans have been <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-species-extinctions-are-far-more-impactful-than-we-realized/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chipping away at the richness of species</a> for centuries, the knock-on effects of these extinctions are less understood.



Recent research led by the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Birmingham</a> sheds light on the severe implications of the ongoing biodiversity crisis and the need to recognize the environmental roles we're losing due to extinction.



Remember the Dodo? Or the more recent Kaua'i ōō songbird declared extinct in 2023? Scientists have verified at least 600 bird species lost due to human interference since the Late Pleistocene when modern humans began to disperse globally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-loss-of-functional-diversity">Loss of functional diversity </h2>



Dr. Tom Matthews from the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Birmingham</a> is the lead author of the study.



"The sheer number of bird species that have become extinct is of course a big part of the extinction crisis but what we also need to focus on is that every species has a job or function within the environment and therefore plays a really important role in its ecosystem," said Dr. Matthews.



From insects-eating birds controlling pests to scavenger birds recycling dead matter - these are just some of the functions birds perform in their respective ecosystems.



Some birds like hummingbirds are important pollinators. When they go <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-was-the-cause-of-earths-largest-mass-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinct</a>, these valuable contributions (the functional diversity) go with them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cascading-impacts-of-bird-extinction">Cascading impacts of bird extinction </h2>



With the extinction of bird species, we're losing more than just unique creatures. 



The researchers found that the scale of human-induced bird extinctions has led to a loss of approximately 3 billion years of unique evolutionary history and 7% of global avian functional diversity - a significantly larger amount than suggested by the number of extinctions alone.



These losses may trigger a domino effect, leading to reduced flower pollination, weakened seed dispersal, an upsurge in pest populations, and disease outbreaks due to reduced consumption of carrion.



Moreover, the shrinking global bird population might hamper the ability of many plant species to adapt to current and future climate changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-public-awareness">Importance of public awareness</h2>



To truly address the crisis of bird extinction and its broader ecological impact, we must first tackle the knowledge gap surrounding biodiversity. Many people remain unaware of the complex ecological functions that birds fulfill and the implications of their loss. 



Public education and widespread dissemination of scientific findings are crucial in transforming how we approach biodiversity conservation. 



Informative campaigns and community engagement can foster an understanding of how interconnected our survival is with the natural world, prompting more support for conservation efforts. 



As awareness grows, so too does the potential for policy change and increased funding for conservation projects aimed at preserving our planet's natural heritage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reversing-the-course">Reversing the course</h2>



In response to this crisis, scientists and conservationists are developing innovative strategies to halt further extinctions and restore avian biodiversity. Habitat restoration and the creation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/endangered-birds-moving-area-where-giant-moa-pachyornis-australis-went-extinct/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird-friendly environments</a> are critical components of these efforts. 



Policies that protect critical habitats from development and pollution are essential, as well as the restoration of degraded environments to support bird populations.



Additionally, breeding programs and wildlife corridors can encourage the reintroduction and dispersal of endangered bird species across regions. 



Technology also plays a significant role, with advancements in data collection and analysis helping identify priority areas for conservation. 



Collaborative international efforts are required to address the global nature of this crisis, emphasizing that a diverse and thriving avian population is vital for the health of our planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-and-restoration">Conservation and restoration</h2>



“These results are a timely reminder that the current extinction crisis is not just about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/endangered-birds-moving-area-where-giant-moa-pachyornis-australis-went-extinct/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> numbers," said Dr. Matthews.



"By identifying declines in avian functional and phylogenetic diversity driven by human actions, our findings highlight the urgent need to understand and predict the impacts of past anthropogenic extinctions on ecosystem function in order to prepare for the magnitude of expected future loss from the projected 1,000 bird species that are expected to die out completely over the next two centuries."



"This information is vital for setting effective targets for global conservation strategies, as well as ecosystem restoration and rewilding efforts.”&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adk7898" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Bird extinctions shatter the harmonious balance of nature

The human-driven extinction of hundreds of bird species over the...

Cast your mind back to the year 1988. The Koster archipelago, a cluster of islands off the Swedish west coast near Norway, suffered a harsh attack from a significant bloom of toxic algae. This occurrence left an indelible mark on the marine snail populations residing in these islands - driving an impact on their evolution, and pushing them to near extinction.



But why should this matter to anyone but marine biologists or environmentalists? Well, this unfortunate turn of events would provide an opportunity to observe the fascinating process of evolution in real-time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decades-long-experiment-with-snails">Decades-long experiment with snails</h2>



The Koster islands and the encompassing rocky islets known as skerries were habitats for dense and diverse populations of marine snails, specifically the species Littorina saxatilis. 



While the snail populations bounced back on the larger islands within two to four years, the populations on smaller skerries couldn't recover from this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pest-control-product-nemaslug-could-harm-beneficial-snails/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">catastrophic event</a>.



Kerstin Johannesson, a marine ecologist at the <a href="https://www.gu.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Gothenburg</a>, Sweden, saw an opportunity amidst this disaster. In 1992, she reintroduced the L. saxatilis snails to their original skerry habitat, thus initiating an experiment with profound implications that researchers could witness over three decades later.



Ultimately, the experiment enabled an international team led by the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (<a href="https://ista.ac.at/en/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ISTA</a>) to observe and predict evolution of snails in real-time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-snails-evolved-to-fit-their-environment">Snails evolved to fit their environment </h2>



The marine snail species L. saxatilis is spread across the North Atlantic shores. Evolved to adapt to their environment, these snails exhibit differences in size, shell shape, shell color, and behavior. 



The two distinct types that develop, most prominently known as the Crab- and Wave-ecotype, are particularly intriguing. The Wave snails tend to be smaller, with thin shells of unique colors and patterns, a large and rounded aperture, and bold behavior. 



In contrast, the Crab snails are noticeably larger, possess thicker shells without patterns, a smaller and more elongated aperture, and exhibit wary behavior due to their predator-filled environment.



Remarkably, the Koster archipelago served as a home to both these types of L. saxatilis. Following the deadly algae bloom, Wave snails perished, leaving the shores desolate. 



However, Crab snails were still abundant nearby. Capitalizing on this proximity, Johannesson decided to reintroduce the Crab snails to the wave snail’s old abode in 1992.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-snails-reclaim-lost-traits-through-evolution">Snails reclaim lost traits through evolution</h2>



Johannesson's decision turned out to be a masterstroke. With the snails churning out one to two generations every year, scientists could witness the Crab snails adapt to their new environment in real-time. 



“Our colleagues saw evidence of the snails’ adaptation already within the first decade of the experiment,” said Diego Garcia Castillo, a graduate student in the <a href="https://ista.ac.at/en/research/barton-group/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barton Group at ISTA</a> and a leading author of the study.



“Over the experiment’s 30 years, we were able to predict robustly what the snails will look like and which genetic regions will be implicated. The transformation was both rapid and dramatic."



But this evolution and transformation wasn't a case of the snails developing their traits from scratch. Some of the genetic diversity was already available in the starting Crab population, though at low prevalence. These findings indicate that access to a large gene pool can hasten the process of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/slugs-and-snails-prefer-los-angeles-city-life-over-rural-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-diversity-in-snail-evolution">Genetic diversity in snail evolution</h2>



Over the duration of the experiment, the team examined the snails' phenotype, individual gene variabilities, and larger genetic changes that affect entire regions of the chromosomes called "chromosomal inversions."



They observed a rapid selection of traits already present at a low frequency in the transplanted Crab snail population, which may be further bolstered by gene flow from neighboring Wave snails.



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



This research on snail evolution opens a window into understanding how species can adapt to modern environmental challenges such as pollution and climate change. Not all species have access to large gene pools, and evolving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deadly-snail-venom-possible-key-to-improving-diabetes-medicine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new traits</a> from scratch is slow. 



Anja Marie Westram, a former postdoc at ISTA, now a researcher at Nord University, expressed her hope for the future. "Perhaps this research helps convince people to protect a range of natural habitats so that species do not lose their genetic variation."



Fast forward to the present day, and the snails Johannesson brought to the skerry in 1992 now have a thriving population of around 1,000 individuals. These humble snails, once victims of an environmental catastrophe, are now helping us understand the wonders of nature and evolution.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adp2102" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Snails defy death and revive through evolution

Cast your mind back to the year 1988. The Koster...

Researchers have recently unlocked new insights into how the red milkweed beetle thrives on toxic plants, shedding light on the ecological, evolutionary, and potential economic impacts of insect-plant interactions.&nbsp;



While the relationship between the red milkweed beetle and milkweed plants has been studied for nearly 150 years, scientists have now taken a major step forward by sequencing the beetle’s genome and examining genes tied to plant-feeding and other biological traits.



The research was conducted by Rich Adams from the <a href="https://aaes.uada.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station</a>, in collaboration with colleagues from the <a href="https://www.memphis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Memphis</a> and the <a href="https://www.uwosh.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Wisconsin Oshkosh</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-red-milkweed-beetle-genome">Red milkweed beetle genome</h2>



The researchers set out to sequence and assemble the entire genome of the red milkweed beetle (Tetraopes tetrophthalmus), a host-specialist.&nbsp;



The research allowed them to compare the genome of this beetle with that of the Asian long-horned beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis), a host-generalist and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/growing-threat-of-invasive-species-requires-immediate-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invasive species</a> that feeds on a variety of important trees.



“From a biological standpoint, there is a lot of correspondence that suggests that longstanding interactions between milkweed beetles and their toxic milkweed hosts should influence the biology of both interacting partners,” explained Adams.&nbsp;



“But, to date, no one has assembled a milkweed beetle genome, which opens the door for targeting a lot of interesting questions at the interface between insect and plant.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-co-evolution-of-plants-and-insects">Co-evolution of plants and insects</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milkweed-gardens-are-needed-to-save-monarch-butterflies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milkweeds</a> and milkweed beetles have long been valuable models for studying ecology, evolution, developmental biology, and the biochemistry of toxins. They have also provided compelling evidence of co-evolution between insect and plant species. 



The timing of their evolutionary histories aligns, meaning that milkweed plants and their beetle counterparts evolved in tandem.



In their research, the team found that the red milkweed beetle has an expansion of genes from the ABC transport family, which may allow the beetles to feed on the toxic milkweed and sequester the plant's toxins within their tissues.&nbsp;



Milkweed plants are well-known for producing toxic latex cocktails that affect the balance of sodium, calcium, and potassium necessary for heart function.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-safe-interactions-with-a-toxic-plant">Safe interactions with a toxic plant</h2>



Adams emphasized that the genome analysis offers important insights into how the beetle has evolved to safely interact with its toxic host plants.



“Milkweeds produce a particularly nasty type of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monarch-caterpillars-turn-milkweed-toxin-into-a-survival-tool/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toxin</a> called cardiac glycosides alongside other types of toxins that come with it,” Adams said. 



“For many insects that eat it, the toxin will block their sodium-potassium pumps. But this beetle developed a way to not only resist the toxin, but also sequester it, hold on to it, to keep the beetles themselves safe from would-be predators.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-specialized-diet-of-milkweed-beetles">Specialized diet of milkweed beetles</h2>



The experts also discovered variations in genes responsible for the beetle's sense of smell, taste, and the metabolic enzymes needed to break down plant cell walls.&nbsp;



This new understanding provides a fresh perspective for studying how beetles, particularly long-horned beetles and other plant-eating insects, have specialized their diets over time.



The findings could have significant applications in agriculture and forestry, particularly for managing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urgent-need-to-protect-earths-forests-from-non-native-pests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pests</a>. 



By identifying the genetic factors that allow agricultural and forestry pests to successfully feed on plants and evade control measures, researchers can develop better pest management strategies.



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



Most animals capable of digesting woody plant material rely on gut microbes to help break down plant cell walls. However, many plant-eating beetles do not need these microbes.&nbsp;



Instead, they have evolved their own mechanisms, often acquiring the ability to break down plant material through horizontal gene transfers from microbes.



Adams pointed out that examining the diversity of proteins encoded within beetle genomes can provide valuable insights into the genomic basis of beetle biology, evolution, and interactions with plants.&nbsp;



“Nature has made an incredible diversity of genes and genomes already out there that we have not yet deciphered,” said Adams.&nbsp;



“Understanding this diversity holds great promise for informing agriculture, forestry, and human health. Herbivorous beetles would have a difficult time feeding on plants without their metabolic enzymes, because they can’t eat effectively without them.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-milkweed-beetles-sense-their-environment">How milkweed beetles sense their environment </h2>



In addition to studying the beetle’s genomic DNA, the team collected RNA from both male and female beetle antennae to explore how the beetles use chemosensation - the ability to detect chemical signals in their environment - to find mates and food.



“Learning more about chemosensory biology - how an organism senses its environment, like sensing a host plant or reproductive partner - has broad relevance for understanding insect-plant interactions, which is intensively relevant to agriculture and forestry,” Adams explained.



The team’s RNA profiling provided the first transcriptomic resource for Tetraopes, offering new insights into the genes that are expressed in specific tissues or cells.&nbsp;



As Adams noted, while DNA provides the gene sequence, RNA allows researchers to gain a clearer picture of how genes are expressed and how often a particular gene is activated.



This research opens new doors to understanding specialized plant-feeding in beetles and could eventually help in developing pest control strategies to protect crops and forests from invasive species.



The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/jhered/esae049" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Heredity</a>.



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How does the milkweed beetle safely feed on a toxic plant?

Researchers have recently unlocked new insights into how the red...

Let's dive into a world that speaks a language of its own, one of "smiles" and mirrored facial expressions, captured in the playful banter of bottlenose dolphins. 



A recent study reveals that these playful creatures utilize an "open-mouth" expression, akin to a human smile, as their way of signaling fun during social play.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unveiling-of-the-dolphin-smile">Unveiling of the dolphin smile</h2>



There's a new conversation happening about the exclusive "open mouth" display of bottlenose <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dolphins-and-whales-got-new-backbones-for-life-in-the-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dolphins</a>.



As part of their playful antics, dolphins expertly utilize this display when they are within the field of view of their frisky counterparts.



What's more, when a dolphin perceives a fellow dolphin's open-mouth smile, it reciprocates with its own smile at least 33% of the time.



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



The research was led by Dr. Elisabetta Palagi, an evolutionary biologist at the <a href="https://www.unipi.it/index.php/english" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Pisa</a>.



Through her extensive research, Dr. Palagi found that dolphins tend to mirror each other's expressions. The frequency of this mimicking behavior is not random but rather a specific response to the visual cue of an open-mouth display.



"Open-mouth signals and rapid mimicry appear repeatedly across the mammal family tree, which suggests that visual communication has played a crucial role in shaping complex social interactions, not only in dolphins but in many species over time," said Dr. Palagi.



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



Taking a deep dive into the past, Dr. Palagi highlighted that the open-mouth gesture likely evolved from the action of biting.



The action was gradually diluted to leave only the intention to bite, without any actual contact. This open-mouth gesture, she explained, is a universal symbol of playfulness seen across social carnivores, monkeys, and even in human laughter.



It behaves as an effective signal to defuse possible confrontation, by clearly indicating intentions of fun rather than conflict. Thus, the dolphins' playfulness, which includes acrobatics, surfing, and playfighting, is not misconstrued as aggression.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dolphins-smiling-for-each-other">Dolphins smiling for each other</h2>



The research also revealed that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-dolphins-who-play-with-others-become-successful-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dolphins</a> frequently use the open mouth expression when playing with other dolphins, but don't appear to use this form of communication when playing with humans or even by themselves.



In essence, the smile is a social cue primarily used in inter-species interactions. This was confirmed through meticulous observation of captive bottlenose dolphins.



Only one open mouth event was recorded during solitary play, while a substantial 1,288 open mouth events were recorded during social play sessions. As many as 92% of these events occurred during dolphin-dolphin play sessions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environment-s-role-in-dolphin-communication">Environment's role in dolphin communication</h2>



In further exploration of dolphin behavior and their expressive smiles, it becomes evident that the environment plays a pivotal role in the manifestation of these social cues.



The aquatic realm, with its propensity for sound to travel farther and clearer underwater, complements the visual signals dolphins employ. 



Spatial awareness and group dynamics are heavily influenced by the environments dolphins inhabit, such as open ocean or coastal areas, impacting their communication strategies. 



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



Understanding the specifics of dolphin communication can profoundly impact how humans engage with these intelligent marine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orcas-have-hunting-and-eating-habits-that-we-never-imagined/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mammals</a>.



With rising interest in dolphin-assisted therapy and ecotourism, comprehending dolphins' social cues becomes paramount to fostering ethical interactions. 



Humans must be cognizant of interpreting dolphin behaviors correctly to avoid misunderstanding playful gestures as signs of distress or vice versa. 



By respecting these natural communication channels and recognizing the boundaries of interspecies interactions, humans can ensure both the welfare of dolphins and the enrichment of their own experience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mimicry-or-chance">Mimicry or chance?</h2>



Can it be that dolphins are simply mimicking each other's open mouth expressions like smiling by mere chance? 



"This doesn’t explain why the probability of mimicking another dolphin’s open mouth within 1 second is 13 times higher when the receiver actually sees the original expression," said Dr. Palagi.



Research indicates that this rate of mimicry in dolphins aligns with behavior seen in certain carnivores like meerkats and sun bears, further solidifying the premise of intentional communication.



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



While our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mammals-evolved-similar-inner-ears-despite-different-ancestry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dolphin communication</a> has been broadened, it's clear there's still a lot we don't know. 



Future research is needed to explore the realm of eye-tracking to understand how dolphins see their world. Studies may also investigate the possible role of vocalizations and tactile signals during playful interactions.



"Dolphins have developed one of the most intricate vocal systems in the animal world, but sound can also expose them to predators or eavesdroppers," noted study co-author and zoologist Livio Favaro. 



"When dolphins play together, a mix of whistling and visual cues helps them cooperate and achieve goals, a strategy particularly useful during social play when they’re less on guard for predators."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/iscience/fulltext/S2589-0042(24)02191-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iScience</a>



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Dolphins 'smile' at each other when they play to avoid confusion

Let's dive into a world that speaks a language of...

Temperature is a key factor in determining where species can thrive and whether they are at risk from climate change.&nbsp;



While much research has focused on how heat tolerance affects survival, less attention has been paid to how thermal traits influence reproduction, which is directly connected to extinction risk.&nbsp;



Now, a team of researchers in the United States has explored whether male dragonflies with dark wing coloration, used as a sexual signal during mating, are more resistant to heat.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reproductive-traits-and-heat-tolerance-nbsp">Reproductive traits and heat tolerance&nbsp;</h2>



The findings, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fetho.2024.1447637" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Ethology</a>, provide new insights into the link between reproductive traits and heat tolerance.



“We show that dragonfly species that have evolved dark breeding coloration on their wings have also evolved the ability to tolerate high temperatures,” said lead author Noah Leith, a biologist at the University of Pittsburgh.&nbsp;



“This finding paves the way for a whole new field of research exploring interactions between thermal traits and sexual signals.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wing-coloration-and-mate-selection">Wing coloration and mate selection</h2>



In many animals, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragonflies-hunt-perfectly-even-in-extreme-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dragonflies</a>, sexual signals like wing coloration play an important role in attracting mates, identifying species for reproduction, and deciding when to retreat from mating contests. However, these dark wing ornaments come with a downside.&nbsp;



Dark colors absorb more heat, raising the dragonflies' body temperature, which can result in physiological stress or cause males to abandon their reproductive territories.



“We see time and time again that animals will put their lives on the line to reproduce, even if it means encountering potentially lethal temperatures,” Leith said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wing-coloration-and-heat-stress">Wing coloration and heat stress</h2>



To investigate, the researchers analyzed 14 species of dragonflies living in tropical climates and five species from temperate regions.&nbsp;



They discovered that species with dark, heat-absorbing wing coloration had evolved to withstand higher <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/at-what-point-does-heat-stress-become-dangerous/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat stress</a> before reaching their critical thermal limits.&nbsp;



“This enhanced ability to tolerate high body temperatures is likely crucial for shaping how dragonflies may respond to the changing climates of the future,” Leith explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-wings-increase-body-temperature">Dark wings increase body temperature</h2>



The researchers found that dark wing ornaments can increase a dragonfly's body temperature by 1°C to 2°C, which is approximately the same as the increase in thermal tolerance observed in species with dark wing patterns.&nbsp;



The tropical species Tauriphila argo, also known as the arch-tipped glider, was found to have the highest heat tolerance among the species studied.&nbsp;



This dragonfly has very dark wing patches near its core body, which absorbs more heat. Overall, the pattern of co-evolution between dark coloration and heat tolerance was even stronger in tropical species, where high temperatures are a constant challenge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-heat-tolerance-nbsp">Evolution of heat tolerance&nbsp;</h2>



Previous research has shown that rising global temperatures are causing some dragonfly species to evolve with less wing coloration. 



However, the new findings suggest that even if these species lose some of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragonfly-wing-colors-driven-by-climate-and-sexual-selection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coloration</a> due to climate pressures, they will retain their ability to withstand hotter temperatures because they have already evolved this trait.



This study is one of the first to test whether thermal tolerance co-evolves with reproductive traits.&nbsp;



“Our finding is particularly exciting because dark sexual coloration has evolved over and over across the tree of life and causes a wide variety of other animals to absorb extra heat too - from reptiles to lions and fruit flies,” Leith said.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surviving-in-a-warming-world-nbsp">Surviving in a warming world&nbsp;</h2>



This discovery highlights how evolutionary adaptations in response to reproductive needs may also help species survive in a warming world.



In the context of rapid global warming, being able to predict which species are vulnerable to extinction is crucial for preserving biodiversity. The researchers emphasize the importance of examining not just survival traits, but reproductive traits as well, to get a more comprehensive understanding of how animals respond to environmental <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-earths-temperature-has-changed-over-500-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changes</a>.&nbsp;



“Looking at vulnerability in only one aspect of animals' lives is insufficient. We need a more nuanced understanding of how animals respond to changing environments as whole, complex organisms, in which their reproductive traits might influence their chances of surviving a heat wave, and vice versa,” Leith said.



Although the study analyzed 19 species, the researchers point out that there are thousands of dragonfly species worldwide. Future research could explore whether similar patterns exist across other species and types of animals.&nbsp;



“It would be fantastic to someday test if heat tolerance co-evolves with sexual traits across life on Earth,” Leith concluded.



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Wing coloration helps dragonflies withstand heat

Temperature is a key factor in determining where species can...

They say hindsight is 20/20, and while the theory of ecological speciation - the idea that new species emerge due to ecological changes - makes sense in retrospect, it has been challenging to demonstrate experimentally.&nbsp;



However, a recent study published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.adj4478" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a> by biologists from the <a href="https://www.umass.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Massachusetts Amherst</a> has managed to achieve this. 



The researchers identified a critical link between ecology and speciation in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/darwins-finches-reveal-how-one-species-becomes-many/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Darwin’s finches</a>, the iconic birds of the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finch-beaks-in-changing-environments-nbsp">Finch beaks in changing environments&nbsp;</h2>



Previous work had established that the finches' beaks adapt to changing environments, and these changes influence how they sing. But until now, no one had experimentally shown that such adaptations could drive the formation of new species.



The new research demonstrates how changes in finch beaks, driven by environmental factors, also alter their songs, which in turn affects how the birds recognize their own species - a crucial factor in the speciation process.&nbsp;



“I started working with these birds 25 years ago,” said Jeffrey Podos, a professor of biology at UMass Amherst and the study’s senior author.&nbsp;



“In my very first publication on the finches, back in 2001, I showed that changes in the beaks of Darwin’s finches lead to changes in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-songs-human-speech-common-vocal-genetic-origin-syrinx/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">songs</a> they sing, and I speculated that, because Darwin’s finches use songs to attract mates, then song changes related to beak evolution could perhaps catalyze ecological speciation.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-formation-of-new-species">Formation of new species</h2>



However, Podos lacked direct experimental evidence to support his hypothesis that environmentally driven changes to beak shape were pushing the finches toward the formation of new species.&nbsp;



The difficulty lies in the fact that speciation is a historical process, making it incredibly hard to observe in real-time. “Catching it as it happens,” Podos said, “would be like catching lightning in a bottle.”



To overcome this challenge, Podos devised a clever experiment based on simulations, aided by leads from decades of research on Darwin’s finches.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-closer-look-at-changing-finch-beaks-nbsp">A closer look at changing finch beaks&nbsp;</h2>



Scientists already knew that finch beaks either evolve to become strong enough to crush tough seeds or remain more delicate to facilitate intricate song patterns.&nbsp;



“It takes serious motor performance to sing an intricate song, like that of the swamp sparrow,” Podos explained. “And a big, powerful beak is just too clunky to manage the movements required.”



Thanks to the wealth of data gathered by the wider biological community about how finch beaks change in response to environmental pressures, Podos realized he could model future beak changes.&nbsp;



He chose drought as the ecological driver for his study because droughts tend to select for finches with thicker beaks.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simulating-songs-of-future-finches">Simulating songs of future finches</h2>



Podos also knew he could predict how these thicker-beaked finches would sing after successive drought events and simulate the songs of these future finches. "Essentially, we engineered the calls of future finches,” Podos said.



In general, thicker beaks produce slower songs with a narrower range of frequencies. Each successive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-extreme-weather-events-are-escalating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drought</a> is predicted to result in thicker beaks, which in turn would further slow down the songs and reduce their bandwidth. 



Armed with this knowledge, Podos and his team simulated the calls of future finches based on these beak changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-shifts-and-finch-responses">Environmental shifts and finch responses</h2>



Next, the researchers played these modified calls to a specific population of Darwin’s medium ground finches to see how they responded.&nbsp;



“We found that there were no changes in the finches’ responses to our modified calls even when the simulated songs had changed by the equivalent of three drought events,” said Katie M. Schroeder, co-author of the study and a former doctoral student of Podos.&nbsp;



“But by six drought events, the songs had changed so much that the finches barely responded at all.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connection-between-finch-beaks-and-songs-nbsp">Connection between finch beaks and songs&nbsp;</h2>



This result suggests that because of the connection between beak shape and song, Darwin’s medium ground finches could potentially evolve into a new species after experiencing six major droughts on the Galápagos Islands.



“Our research is not a conceptual revolution, but it is an empirical, experimental confirmation of ecological speciation and its plausibility,” Podos explained.



This study provides critical evidence that ecological factors, such as droughts that alter beak shape, can indeed drive the emergence of new species by changing how birds communicate and recognize one another.&nbsp;



The findings offer a compelling experimental demonstration of ecological speciation in action, shedding new light on the mechanisms that contribute to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/maps-of-bird-populations-can-help-protect-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>, particularly in iconic species like Darwin's finches.



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Finch beaks and bird songs: A new story of evolution

They say hindsight is 20/20, and while the theory of...

<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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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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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