A team in central China has done something simple and bold, they directly dated dinosaur eggs instead of the rocks around them. The eggshell calcite from the Qinglongshan site yielded an age of 85.91 ± 1.74 million years.



This matters because it turns eggs from interesting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-did-dinosaurs-come-from-missing-fossils-hold-the-secret/">fossils</a> into reliable timestamps for life on land during the Late Cretaceous, a time of shifting climates and ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dinosaur-eggshells-dated">Dinosaur eggshells dated</h2>



The fossils come from Qinglongshan in the Yunyang Basin of Hubei Province, where thousands of intact eggs rest in stacked layers with little distortion.&nbsp;



“We show that these dinosaur eggs were deposited roughly 85 million years ago, in the Late Cretaceous period,” said <a href="https://loop.frontiersin.org/people/3140051/overview" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Bi Zhao</a>, from the Hubei Institute of Geosciences (<a href="https://en.cug.edu.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HIG</a>).



The group used carbonate <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/zircon-u-pb-dating" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U-Pb dating</a> on eggshell material, measuring uranium and lead atoms to calculate time since the shell formed. 



In their tests, the radiogenic signal sits in biogenic calcite, the carbonate built by the egg-laying animal, which behaved as a semi-closed system for uranium uptake after burial.



The <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/earth-science/articles/10.3389/feart.2025.1638838/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">analysis</a> relied on <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/materials-science/laser-ablation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">laser ablation</a>, a micro laser that vaporizes pinpoint spots of carbonate which are then analyzed by a mass spectrometer for uranium and lead ratios.&nbsp;



The resulting age is not from ash fall or nearby minerals, it is from the eggshell itself, which frees researchers from indirect age constraints that can mislead if volcanic layers formed earlier or later than the nest horizon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-carbonate-u-pb-works">How carbonate U-Pb works</h2>



Uranium isotopes in carbonates decay into lead at known, constant rates, and the proportion of parent to daughter isotopes reveals elapsed time. 



Cross checks, like repeated spots in different shell areas and agreement between fragments, keep the numbers honest, and the reported uncertainty of ± 1.74 million years reflects instrument precision and sample scatter, not guesswork.



Indirect <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1367912012005019" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">approaches</a> have anchored many Asian egg sites by dating interbedded tuffs, for example zircon based SIMS ages from the Tiantai Basin that bracket egg layers in the Laijia and Chichengshan formations at roughly 96 to 99 million years and 91 to 94 million years. 



That prior dating set a framework that eggshell ages can now refine where ash is missing.



Carbonate geochronology has matured fast, with careful comparisons between uranium thorium and U-Pb techniques on the same samples showing strong consistency over wide timescales. 



That broader look at geochronology <a href="https://gchron.copernicus.org/articles/7/335/2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methods</a> helps explain why a tiny eggshell can carry a credible age.



The study team also separated signals, finding consistent ages from biogenic carbonates, and noisy or unusable signals from late pore filling calcite, a reminder that not all carbonates are equal for keeping time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dinosaur-eggshell-site">Dinosaur eggshell site</h2>



The Qinglongshan reserve preserves egg clutches in red siltstones and sandstones, with many eggs still three dimensional and minimally deformed, a rare condition that helps both taphonomy and dating. 



The sampled clutch belonged to an oblate style of egg typical of the family <a href="https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Dendrobatidae/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dendroolithidae</a>, which is known for highly porous shells.



Those Yunyang eggs have been assigned to Placoolithus tumiaolingensis by <a href="https://www.app.pan.pl/archive/published/app63/app005232018.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">work</a> that cleaned up the taxonomy and emphasized the diagnostic shell microstructure. That classification anchors the site in a broader Chinese record of dendroolithid eggs.



Porous eggshell architecture affects gas exchange and incubation, and the microstructure varies in ways that may reflect nesting style in a semi arid fluvial landscape. 



The new age puts those choices in a tight slice of time, late Coniacian to early Santonian, rather than a vague Late Cretaceous window.



Thousands of eggs across stacked horizons also open the door to building a basin scale timeline where shell ages from different levels track local ecological change, sedimentation rates, and any shifts in the nesting fauna.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/dinosaur-eggs_dating-method_china_credit-Bi-Zhao_1m.jpg"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/dinosaur-eggs_dating-method_china_credit-Bi-Zhao_1s.webp" alt="Egg clutch sampled for chronological studies. Credit Dr. Bi Zhao" class="wp-image-1985991"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Egg clutch sampled for chronological studies. Click image to enlarge. Credit Dr. Bi Zhao</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dinosaur-climate-context">Dinosaur climate context</h2>



Marine records indicate the Late Cretaceous did not stay uniformly hot. 



One North Atlantic sea surface temperature <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24937202/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">record</a> shows a drop of about 7 degrees Celsius (12.6 degrees Fahrenheit), from around 35 degrees to below 28 degrees, between the earliest Campanian and the Maastrichtian.



Independent <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18187651/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evidence</a> from oxygen isotopes suggests brief glaciation episodes punctuated parts of the mid Cretaceous greenhouse, showing that climate could swing even when the world was generally warm. 



Inland Asia would have felt those shifts in precipitation, seasonality, and vegetation.



Pinned ages on terrestrial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaur-extinction-theories-are-challenged-by-new-research/">fossils</a> let scientists ask tighter questions about whether nesting density changed across cooler intervals or whether certain egg types rose or fell with climate. 



The eggshell ages at Qinglongshan now give one fixed point for such tests, and more layers can add the sequence needed to see patterns.



Cause and effect claims are premature at a single site, but a direct eggshell chronology makes it practical to compare neighboring basins and see whether bird and non avian <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-sized-baby-dinosaur-unearthed-after-166-million-years/">dinosaur</a> nesting moved, paused, or persisted during regional climate transitions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-comes-next">What comes next</h2>



The team plans to sample eggs from additional horizons at Qinglongshan, then from basins to the north and south, to build a regional timeline that can be compared with dated marine and volcanic records. 



That will clarify which changes are local quirks and which ones reflect broader environmental forcing across East Asia.



Applying the same protocol to eggs in the Xixia, Jiaolai, and Nanxiong basins would close large age gaps where ash beds are absent. 



Those basins have different egg assemblages, so a uniform clock could test migration ideas and turnover hypotheses without assuming rock ages transfer cleanly between sites.



Direct dinosaur eggshell dating also complements existing zircon frameworks rather than replacing them, since both tools answer different parts of the age question. 



Zircons pin eruptive or depositional moments for ash, while eggshells date the biological event of nesting, and together they can resolve the tempo of life on land.



With better <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mammals-ground-dwellers-survived-the-asteroid-impact-that-killed-the-dinosaurs/">timescales</a>, small details like pore geometry, clutch spacing, and shell thickness will be tied to environmental context, not guesswork. 



That is how a few careful ages can turn a crowded egg hillside into a precise chronicle of Late Cretaceous life in central China.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/earth-science/articles/10.3389/feart.2025.1638838/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Earth Science</a>.



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These dinosaur eggs tell an incredible story from 85 million years ago

A team in central China has done something simple and bold, they directly dated dinosaur eggs instead of the rocks around them. The eggshell calcite from the Qinglongshan site yielded an age of 85.91 ± 1.74 million years. This matters because it turns eggs from interesting fossils into reliable timestamps for life on land during the Late Cretaceous, a time of shifting climates and ecosystems. Dinosaur eggshells dated The fossils come from Qinglongshan in the Yunyang Basin of Hubei Province, where thousands of intact eggs rest in...

In a marine science mystery reminiscent of a game of Clue, researchers from the United States set out to investigate the death of a pregnant porbeagle shark in the open waters southwest of Bermuda. The evidence points to a larger shark, equipped with its deciduous triangular teeth, as the most likely culprit.  



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predation-of-a-porbeagle-shark-nbsp">Predation of a porbeagle shark&nbsp;</h2>



“This is the first documented predation event of a porbeagle shark anywhere in the world,” said Brooke Anderson, the study’s lead author and a former graduate student at <a href="https://www.asu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arizona State University</a>.



“In one event, the population not only lost a reproductive female that could contribute to population growth, but it also lost all her developing babies. If predation is more widespread than previously thought, there could be major impacts for the porbeagle shark population that is already suffering due to historic overfishing.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-endangered-porbeagle-sharks">Endangered porbeagle sharks</h2>



Porbeagles are formidable sharks found in the Atlantic, South Pacific Ocean, and the Mediterranean. These sharks are large, active, and robustly built, growing up to 3.7 meters in length and weighing as much as 230 kilograms.&nbsp;



They are also long-lived, with lifespans that can reach 30 to even 65 years. Female porbeagles have a slow reproductive cycle, not reaching reproductive maturity until around 13 years old. When they do reproduce, they give birth to an average of four pups every one or two years after a gestation period of eight to nine months.



Due to this slow reproduction rate, porbeagle populations struggle to recover from threats such as overfishing, recreational fishing, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-device-reduces-shark-bycatch-by-electrifying-the-bait/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bycatch</a>, and habitat loss and degradation.&nbsp;



These pressures have led to the porbeagle being listed as endangered in the Northwest Atlantic on the <a href="https://www.iucnredlist.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IUCN Red List of Threatened Species</a>, with populations in the Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean considered critically endangered.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-porbeagles-tagged-off-massachusetts-nbsp">Porbeagles tagged off Massachusetts&nbsp;</h2>



As part of a broader research effort to study shark migration, Anderson and her colleagues tagged porbeagles off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, in 2020 and 2022.&nbsp;



Each shark was fitted with two satellite tags: a fin-mount satellite transmitter and a pop-off satellite archival tag (PSAT).&nbsp;



The fin-mount tag sends the shark’s location to satellites whenever the fin surfaces, while the PSAT records depth and temperature data continuously, storing it until the tag detaches and floats to the surface to transmit its collected data.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-turn-of-events-nbsp">Unexpected turn of events&nbsp;</h2>



One of the tagged porbeagles was a pregnant female measuring 2.2 meters in length. Anderson and her team hoped that tracking this female would provide valuable insights into important habitats for porbeagle mothers and their offspring.



However, an unexpected turn of events occurred. After 158 days, the PSAT began transmitting from an area off Bermuda, indicating that the tag had detached and was floating at the surface.



The transmitted data revealed that this female had spent five months cruising at depths between 100 and 200 meters at night and 600 to 800 meters during the day, in water temperatures ranging from 6.4 to 23.5 °C. Throughout this period, the fin-mount tag had only transmitted once, confirming that the shark had mostly remained underwater.



But then, on March 24, 2021, over the span of four days, the temperature recorded by the PSAT remained consistently around 22 °C at depths between 150 and 600 meters.&nbsp;



This sudden change in data could only mean one thing: the unfortunate porbeagle had been hunted and consumed by a larger predator. The PSAT was likely excreted four days later, which is when it began transmitting again.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-sharks-hunting-each-other">Large sharks hunting each other</h2>



“Two endothermic predator candidates large enough to predate upon mature porbeagles and located within the vicinity and at the time of year of the predation event include the white shark Carcharodon carcharias and shortfin mako Isurus oxyrhinchus,” the authors wrote.



Shortfin mako sharks typically prey on cephalopods, bony fish, smaller sharks, porpoises, sea turtles, and seabirds, while <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-white-sharks-separated-into-three-distinct-groups-that-dont-intermingle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">great white sharks</a> are known to feed on whales, dolphins, seals, and rays.&nbsp;



Of the two suspects, the great white shark is the more likely culprit, as shortfin mako sharks usually exhibit rapid, oscillatory dives between the surface and deeper waters during the day - behavior that was not detected by the PSAT.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-interactions-of-large-predators-nbsp">Complex interactions of large predators&nbsp;</h2>



“The predation of one of our pregnant porbeagles was an unexpected discovery. We often think of large sharks as being apex predators. But with technological advancements, we have started to discover that large predator interactions could be even more complex than previously thought,” Anderson noted.



“We need to continue studying predator interactions to estimate how often large sharks hunt each other. This will help us uncover what cascading impacts these interactions could have on the ecosystem,” she concluded.



This case, while tragic, opens new avenues for understanding the complexities of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/top-marine-predators-may-suffer-massive-habitat-loss-by-2100/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine predator</a>-prey dynamics, particularly among the ocean’s most formidable inhabitants.



The research is detailed in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2024.1406973">Frontiers in Marine Science</a>.



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Unexpected discovery: Large sharks are hunting each other

In a marine science mystery reminiscent of a game of...

Ever heard a high-pitched buzzing sound near your ear in the dark? That's a sign a female mosquito is on a hunt. And no, it's not after your fear. It's after your blood. But for a male mosquito, that same buzz means something entirely different. It's love in the air... or rather, mating season for mosquitoes.



An international team led by researchers at the University of Washington has stumbled upon surprising details about mosquito mating. Spoiler alert: it's not just about romance. These novel findings could give us the upper hand in malaria control strategies and guide the development of precision drone flight technology.



The male Anopheles coluzzii <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquito-habitats-are-expanding-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mosquito</a> is a major culprit in spreading malaria throughout Africa. Let's call him Mr. A. 



Now, for Mr. A, finding a mate isn't just about showing off his six-pack abdomen. It's a game of sounds. The moment he hears the sound of female-specific wingbeats, his rather poor vision gets a boost.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-sounds-of-mosquito-mating">The sounds of mosquito mating </h2>



Though many mosquito species have subpar eyesight, their other senses make up for it. The moment a male mosquito hears the alluring buzz of a female in flight, his eyes "activate," and he starts scanning for a potential partner.



Imagine being in a crowded, busy swarm of eager mosquitoes, all trying to find their soulmate. Even in such chaotic conditions, male <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquitoes-use-thermal-infrared-vision-to-track-and-bite-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mosquitoes</a> can visually lock on to his target. He then speeds up, zipping through the swarm without bumping into any fellow Romeos.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-sound-love-affair">A sound love affair</h2>



"We have discovered this incredibly strong association in male mosquitoes when they seek a mate. They hear the sound of wingbeats at a specific frequency - the kind that females make - and that stimulus engages the visual system," explained study lead author Saumya Gupta, a postdoctoral researcher in biology at <a href="https://www.washington.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UW</a>. 



It's a complex tango between different mosquito sensory systems to create this love connection.



Now, why is this important? The strong link between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquitoes-listen-for-a-specific-buzz-to-find-mates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">males hearing the female-like buzz</a> and moving towards what they think might be the source could open up new possibilities for mosquito control. 



Picture this: a new generation of traps that are specific to the Anopheles mosquitoes, which are the type that spread malaria.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mosquito-mating-and-preventing-malaria">Mosquito mating and preventing malaria </h2>



The unique behavior of male mosquitoes got the attention of study senior author Jeffrey Riffell, a UW professor of biology. He suggests that this sound is so irresistible to males that it causes them to steer towards what they think might be the source, be it a real lady or a mosquito trap.



Understanding the interaction between the senses of mosquitoes in these swarms was a key goal for Gupta, Riffell, and their colleagues from various international universities. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sound-cues-change-male-behavior">Sound cues change male behavior </h2>



The team built a miniature arena - a mosquito flight simulator of sorts - where mosquitoes could see, smell, hear, and beat their wings as if in flight, even though they were tethered and couldn't freely move.



In a series of experiments, the experts found that males changed their behavior based on the sounds they heard. The males moved towards an object when they heard the buzz of a female mosquito, but not when they heard the higher-frequency sound of male wingbeats.



Visual cues also played a role here. If a simulated object appeared more than three body lengths away, the male mosquito wouldn't be interested, even if the sound of lady-love was in the air.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fight-or-flight-in-mosquito-mating">Fight or flight in mosquito mating</h2>



"The resolving power of the mosquito eye is about 1,000-fold less than the resolving power of the human eye. Mosquitoes tend to use vision for more passive behaviors, like avoiding other objects and controlling their position," Riffell explained. 



But when male mosquitoes hear the alluring flight tones of females, they make a surprising set of subtle flight adjustments.



Such visually driven responses could be preparatory maneuvers to avoid an object, the research team concluded. Their observations also suggested that males use close-range visual cues for collision avoidance within swarms.



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



This innovative research on mating could lead to new methods for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bad-news-mosquitoes-prefer-heat-and-thrive-in-the-warming-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mosquito control</a> by capitalizing on how mosquitoes integrate auditory and visual cues. 



Mosquitoes are getting smarter and becoming increasingly resistant to insecticides. So, it's time to outsmart them, and these insights into their mating behavior may be the key.



"Today's measures, like insecticides, are increasingly less effective as mosquitoes evolve resistance," said Riffell. "We need new approaches, like lures or traps, which will draw in mosquitoes with high fidelity."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/abstract/S0960-9822(24)00946-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Mating secrets of mosquitoes may help us gain control of them

Ever heard a high-pitched buzzing sound near your ear in...

Crocodile culling in the Northern Territory (NT) of Australia is a controversial practice aimed at managing the population of saltwater crocodiles, which have been increasing since they were protected by law in 1971. The primary focus of culling is to ensure public safety, particularly in areas where there is a high risk of crocodile attacks on humans.



A new study published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1002/pan3.10693" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">People and Nature</a> reveals that education and community awareness, the removal of problematic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-and-ecology-shaped-250-million-years-of-crocodile-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crocodiles</a>, and the designation of exclusion areas are significantly more effective in reducing saltwater crocodile attacks than widespread culling. 



The research, led by <a href="https://www.cdu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Darwin University</a> (CDU), challenges the notion that culling is a cost-effective or efficient solution to mitigating crocodile attacks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analyzing-the-rate-of-crocodile-attacks-nbsp">Analyzing the rate of crocodile attacks&nbsp;</h2>



The experts examined the correlation between the density of crocodile populations and human populations and the frequency of saltwater crocodile attacks in the Northern Territory over the past 50 years. Data analysis showed that from 1979 to 2022, there were 76 crocodile attacks in the region, with 30% of these attacks resulting in fatalities.



Interestingly, while both crocodile density and the human population continued to rise, the rate of crocodile attacks stabilized from 2009 onwards, with a notable 10% decrease in the frequency of attacks over the following decade.&nbsp;



This trend suggests that the behaviors of Northern Territory residents and tourists around <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-impacts-on-waterways-contribute-to-the-climate-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">waterways</a> have adapted in response to the growing crocodile population, largely due to government-led education programs and efforts to remove problem crocodiles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crocodile-culling-is-not-the-best-strategy-nbsp">Crocodile culling is not the best strategy&nbsp;</h2>



Lead author Cameron Baker, a postdoctoral research fellow at CDU's Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, highlighted the fact that the reduction in attacks correlates with increased awareness and the targeted removal of problem crocodiles.&nbsp;



These strategies have proven to be more effective in reducing attacks than any broad-scale culling program, a method periodically considered in the Northern Territory.



“Our models predicted that the NT crocodile population would have to be reduced by as much as 90% to reduce the crocodile attack frequency by one attack per year,” Baker explained.&nbsp;



“If widespread <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/killing-animals-ecosystem-non-native-culling-harmful-strategy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">culling</a> to reduce density was the prime strategy to reduce crocodile attacks, then the population would need to be driven to very low levels to see any significant reduction. This is because the risk of attacks on humans only decreases once large crocodiles are completely extirpated from an area.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-downside-of-crocodile-culling-nbsp">The downside of crocodile culling&nbsp;</h2>



According to Baker, such extensive culling would not only push the species back into the critically endangered category but would also be prohibitively expensive. Humane culling operations, based on the current Northern Territory crocodile management budget, would cost approximately $975 per crocodile.&nbsp;



“Assuming these operational costs remained constant throughout the culling period, it would cost $87,750,000 to cull 90% of the NT crocodile population humanely, achieving a 48% reduction in crocodile attack frequency,” he said.



In contrast, the Northern Territory Government spent AUD$250,000 on the “Be Crocwise” educational campaign between 2013 and 2016. Since its implementation in 2009, this campaign has contributed to a 10% decrease in crocodile attacks, demonstrating a far more cost-effective approach than culling.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-behavior-and-crocodile-attacks-nbsp">Human behavior and crocodile attacks&nbsp;</h2>



Baker further noted that the data indicated crocodile attacks were influenced by human behavior and activities near water. “Between 2011 and 2021, humans were 363 times more likely to be severely injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident than by a crocodile in the NT,” he said.&nbsp;



“Most victims of crocodile attacks, 90%, were local to the NT. This highlights the importance of modifying human behavior to reduce the risks of attacks by large predators such as crocodiles.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alternative-crocodile-management-methods-nbsp">Alternative crocodile management methods&nbsp;</h2>



Professor Hamish Campbell, who led the study, stressed the need for an evidence-based approach to crocodile management.&nbsp;



“Crocodiles are a danger to humans in North Australia, and this risk needs to be managed. The funds available for crocodile management are limited, and we need to spend these in the most effective manner to reduce crocodile attacks on humans, and the evidence shows that widespread culling is not a cost-effective nor efficient means of doing this,” he said.&nbsp;



“Alternative management methods currently used by the Northern Territory government seem to be working and effective.”



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



Vinay Udyawer from the Australian Institute of Marine Science, who also contributed to the research, noted that the study's findings could inform other predator mitigation strategies.&nbsp;



“The results of this study can be expanded beyond just the management of crocodiles in the Northern Territory,” he said. “It highlights the general ineffectiveness of culling as a primary mitigation tool and the importance of alternative strategies like public education campaigns for managing the risks posed by other large marine predators such as sharks.”



The findings underscore the effectiveness of targeted, evidence-based approaches over broad, less effective measures, offering valuable insights for managing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exploring-the-impacts-of-human-wildlife-interactions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human-wildlife interactions</a> in various contexts.



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Culling is not effective in preventing crocodile attacks 

Crocodile culling in the Northern Territory (NT) of Australia is...

Imagine an epic prehistoric saga, unfolding in what is now northwestern Venezuela, featuring a sea cow as our unfortunate protagonist and a crocodile and a shark as the antagonists. 



This tale is not a figment of our imagination, but a fascinating reality woven by scientists from several esteemed institutions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unearthing-the-prehistoric-tale">Unearthing the prehistoric tale</h2>



The events of this story took place during the Early to Middle Miocene epoch, a period dating from 23 million to 11.6 million years ago. A sea cow, belonging to the extinct genus Culebratherium, found itself at the mercy of a crocodile's attack.



Evidence of this saga is etched on the sea cow's skull. Deep tooth impacts suggest that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crocodile-evolution-was-influenced-by-environmental-factors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crocodile</a> launched the first attack, attempting to grasp the sea cow's snout, likely intending to suffocate it.



Further large incisions indicate the crocodile dragged and tore at the sea cow, executing a "death roll" - a behavior observed in modern crocodiles.



As if being preyed upon by an ancient crocodile wasn't enough, the sea cow's remains were later scavenged by a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiger-shark-genomes-reveal-two-distinct-populations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tiger shark</a>. The discovery of a shark tooth in the sea cow's neck, along with various shark bite marks across the skeleton, solidify this part of the story.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predation-events-in-the-fossil-record">Predation events in the fossil record </h2>



This prehistoric narrative was pieced together by experts from the <a href="https://www.uzh.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Zurich</a> and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, along with researchers from Venezuelan institutes Museo Paleontológico de Urumaco and the Universidad Nacional Experimental Francisco de Miranda.



The findings offer valuable insights into prehistoric predation patterns and the ancient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-seafloor-nutrients-support-the-entire-food-chain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food chain</a>. Aldo Benites-Palomino, the study's lead author from the Department of Paleontology at Zurich, explained that the research highlights the pivotal role of sea cows in the food chain.



"Our findings constitute one of the few records documenting multiple predators over a single prey, and as such provide a glimpse of food chain networks in this region during the Miocene," said Benites-Palomino.



Verifying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fear-of-predators-can-damage-prey-as-much-as-predation-itself/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predation</a> events in the fossil record can be challenging. “While evidence of food chain interactions are not scarce in the fossil record, they are mostly represented by fragmentary fossils exhibiting marks of ambiguous significance," explained Benites-Palomino.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peculiar-sea-cow-remains">Peculiar sea cow remains</h2>



The fossils were uncovered in outcrops of the Early to Middle Miocene Agua Clara Formation, south of the city of Coro, Venezuela. Among the remains, experts discovered a partial skull and eighteen associated vertebrae.



The fossil site is intriguing due to its location - just 100 kilometers away from previous fossil finds. Professor Marcelo R Sanchez-Villagra described the discovery as “remarkable.”



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/sea-cow_ancient_crocodile-attack_illustration_credit-Jaime-Bran-Sarmiento_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/sea-cow_ancient_crocodile-attack_illustration_credit-Jaime-Bran-Sarmiento_1s.jpg" alt="Illustration of a sea cow being attacked by a crocodile. Credit to Jaime Bran Sarmiento" class="wp-image-1943435"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Illustration of a sea cow being attacked by a crocodile. Credit to Jaime Bran Sarmiento</figcaption></figure>



Upon hearing rumors of unusual "rocks" from a local farmer, Sanchez-Villagra and his team decided to investigate. The researchers unearthed sea cow remains that were incredibly unusual in appearance.



“Initially, we were unfamiliar with the site’s geology, and the first fossils we unearthed were parts of skulls," said Sanchez-Villagra.



“It took us some time to determine what they were - sea cow skulls, which are quite peculiar in appearance. By consulting geological maps and examining the sediments at the new locality, we were able to determine the age of the rocks in which the fossils were found.”



The meticulous work of preparing and restoring the cranial elements took several months, further solidifying the significance of this exciting find.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-prehistoric-marine-ecosystems">Insights into prehistoric marine ecosystems</h2>



The discovery of this prehistoric interaction not only sheds light on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/danger-zones-climate-change-is-altering-predator-prey-dynamics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predator-prey dynamics</a> but also provides crucial insights into the marine ecosystems of the Miocene epoch. 



During this period, the region that is now northwestern Venezuela was submerged under shallow seas, creating a vibrant habitat teeming with diverse marine life. 



These waters supported a rich tapestry of organisms, ranging from small invertebrates to large marine mammals like the sea cow.



By studying the fossilized remains and the environmental context in which they were found, scientists can reconstruct ancient ecosystems and better understand the ecological roles of different species. 



The behaviors observed, such as the crocodile's death roll and the shark scavenging, highlight the complex interactions that occurred in these prehistoric seas. 



The research emphasizes the importance of apex predators in shaping the structure and dynamics of marine food webs, a concept that remains relevant in studying modern ecosystems.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02724634.2024.2381505" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology</a>.



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Prehistoric sea cow fossils show it was dinner for a crocodile and a shark

Imagine an epic prehistoric saga, unfolding in what is now...

Did you know that every bird nest you spot in a tree is a unique form of artwork? And imagine this, the creators of these delicate constructions are our very own feathered friends. 



The nests are a manifestation of the birds' ingenuity and survival instincts, and proof of nature's boundless creativity. 



Recent research has focused on one fascinating species - the white-browed sparrow weavers - and their distinctive nest-building practices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-nests-of-sparrow-weavers">Unique nests of sparrow weavers</h2>



In the sweeping vistas of the Kalahari Desert, where the air is dry, and conditions harsh, thrives a species of bird known for their distinctive nest building abilities. Enter the white-browed sparrow weavers.&nbsp;



A team of biologists from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of St Andrews</a>&nbsp;set out on a two-year expedition to observe the nest-building behaviors of these hardy birds.



Birds, like humans, have their unique styles, whether it's singing or foraging. But the sparrow weavers stand out because they have an exclusive nest-building style. The research team captured hours of footage of these birds, collectively creating over 450 nests.



The nests were painstakingly built using grass and were all single-occupancy, making the observational opportunities plentiful.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-nest-passed-down-through-generations">A nest passed down through generations</h2>



All the groups that the researchers observed lived in the same general area with similar&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rebellious-birds-use-anti-bird-spikes-to-build-their-nests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat conditions</a>&nbsp;and had identical genetic makeup.&nbsp;



Yet, the nests they built were strikingly different from each other. Some groups built short and thick nests with minimal embellishment, while others chose long, complicated entrance and exit pathways.&nbsp;



These differences couldn't be chalked up to natural variables such as wind or temperature, leading the researchers to believe that these styles were passed down across generations.



Moreover, with no change in habitat or environmental conditions, the sparrow weaver groups retained their unique styles over the years.&nbsp;



This remarkable consistency suggests a behavior that's transmitted across generations but isn't genetically encoded. It's a thread that ties the past to the future, a story told from one generation to the next.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nest-building-behavior-of-sparrow-weavers">Nest-building behavior of sparrow weavers </h2>



An intriguing aspect of the white-browed sparrow weavers' nest-building behavior is the influence of their social structures. 



Unlike many bird species that exhibit solitary nesting habits, sparrow weavers often collaborate in groups, which significantly impacts their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/termites-are-natures-architects-building-well-ventilated-nests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">architectural choices</a>. 



The research indicated that within these cooperative groups, the roles in nest building were not only shared but also varied by individual proficiency. Certain birds, for instance, might excel at weaving while others were adept at gathering materials.&nbsp;



This collaboration creates a dynamic learning environment, whereby younger birds observe and emulate their more experienced counterparts, leading to an informal education in nest construction techniques that adds to the distinct styles observed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-challenges-faced-by-weavers">Environmental challenges faced by weavers</h2>



The design and structure of nests also reflect the environmental challenges the sparrow weavers face in the Kalahari. These birds must contend with not only the scarcity of materials but also ongoing threats from predators and the harsh elements.&nbsp;



As a result, their nesting strategies are not only artistic but also practical and adaptive. The researchers noted that nests with elaborate entrances and exits often correlated with higher survival rates, as these designs provided birds with immediate camouflage and evasion opportunities.&nbsp;



This adaptability to their environment underscores an essential principle of natural selection: the need for efficiency in survival intricately woven into the very fabric of their creative expression.



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



The intrigue surrounding the white-browed sparrow weavers extends beyond their remarkable nest-building practices; it also highlights the importance of human observation in understanding avian behavior.



The meticulous research highlights how dedicated observation can yield insights into the complexities of avian life. Through the lens of modern technology, such as high-definition cameras and drones, researchers are able to capture behaviors that may go unnoticed in casual observation.



This technology not only enhances our understanding of these birds but also promotes a deeper appreciation for biodiversity and the intricate web of life that surrounds us. 



By promoting a connection between scientists and the natural world, the research advocates for conservation efforts and encourages citizen science participation, ultimately benefiting both the sparrow weavers and the ecosystems they inhabit.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-dynamics-of-sparrow-weavers">Social dynamics of sparrow weavers </h2>



The study paints a vivid picture of avian life in the wild. It sheds light on the incredibly sophisticated group dynamics among birds and opens up fascinating questions about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-are-fishing-cats-raiding-bird-nests-in-the-treetops/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal behavior</a>.&nbsp;



Is it possible that these little birds have their own culture? Can we call these nest-building styles an avian "tradition"?



The white-browed sparrow weavers, with their unique nest-building styles, show us that nature is full of surprises if we just take the time to observe. What other secrets do these little architects hide? Only time, and further exploration will tell.



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adn2573" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Weaver birds build strikingly unique nests

Did you know that every bird nest you spot in...

In the chilly waters off the western Antarctic Peninsula, scientists have made a thrilling discovery: a new species of Antarctic dragonfish, Akarotaxis gouldae.



The discovery of this "Banded Dragonfish" highlights both the hidden depths of biodiversity and the fragile state of the Antarctic ecosystem. The species was identified by researchers at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) at William &amp; Mary.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-akarotaxis-gouldae">Akarotaxis gouldae</h2>



The discovery of Akarotaxis gouldae began when larval specimens, initially assumed to be Akarotaxis nudiceps, were collected during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zooplankton-are-rapidly-escalating-the-threat-of-nanoplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">zooplankton</a> trawling missions off the Antarctic coast.



Upon comparing their DNA with Akarotaxis nudiceps specimens from collections at institutions like VIMS, <a href="https://www.yale.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yale University</a>, and the <a href="https://www.mnhn.fr/fr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle</a> in Paris, significant genetic differences became apparent. 



The experts were able to confirm that these specimens belonged to a <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Akarotaxis-gouldae_antarctic-dragonfish_new-species_specimens_credit-andrew-corso_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">previously unrecognized species</a>.



Study lead author Andrew Corso conducted the research during his PhD studies at VIMS under the guidance of advisors Eric Hilton and Deborah Steinberg. Corso emphasized the importance of genetic testing in modern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-in-insect-taxonomy-threatened-by-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">taxonomy</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Akarotaxis-gouldae_antarctic-dragonfish_new-species_science-boat_credit-andrew-corso_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Akarotaxis-gouldae_antarctic-dragonfish_new-species_science-boat_credit-andrew-corso_1s.jpg" alt="Akarotaxis gouldae, a newly discovered species of Antarctic dragonfish, was named in honor of the recently decomissioned Antarctic research supply vessel Laurence M. Gould. Credit: Andrew Corso" class="wp-image-1943441"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Akarotaxis gouldae, a newly discovered species of Antarctic dragonfish, was named in honor of the recently decomissioned Antarctic research supply vessel Laurence M. Gould. Credit: Andrew Corso</figcaption></figure>



“In the world of fish taxonomy, it’s becoming common to distinguish species with genetics alone. Genetic testing is an extremely valuable tool, but our discovery highlights the importance of early life stage morphology and natural history collections like those at <a href="https://www.vims.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VIMS</a> and other institutions,” said Corso.



Subsequent morphological analysis of adult Akarotaxis gouldae samples from ichthyology collections worldwide confirmed these genetic findings. 



“There are two distinct bands on the sides of adult Akarotaxis gouldae that are not present on Akarotaxis nudiceps, so we were surprised that the species already existed in collections but had been previously overlooked,” noted Corso.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-empowering-insights-from-genetic-testing">Empowering insights from genetic testing</h2>



Through time-calibrated phylogeny, Corso and his colleague Thomas Desvignes from the University of Oregon’s <a href="https://ion.uoregon.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Neuroscience</a> estimated that Akarotaxis gouldae diverged as a separate species approximately 780,000 years ago, when the Southern Ocean was predominantly covered in glaciers.



“We hypothesize that a population of dragonfishes may have become isolated within deep trenches under glaciers, surviving on food pushed in by the moving ice," Corso explained.



Once the glaciers retreated, this subpopulation had become distinct enough to be reproductively incompatible with Akarotaxis nudiceps."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecology-of-antarctic-dragonfish">Ecology of Antarctic dragonfish</h2>



Despite their crucial ecological role, much remains unknown about Antarctic dragonfish. These species, including Akarotaxis gouldae, inhabit the deep, remote waters of the Southern Ocean.



The dragonfish species exhibit unique behaviors like nest guarding in shallower coastal waters, and their offspring remain closer to the surface during the larval stage.



Examination of female dragonfish ovaries has shown limited reproductive capacity, and larval sampling suggests that Akarotaxis gouldae is confined to the waters around the western Antarctic Peninsula.



“Akarotaxis gouldae appear to have one of the smallest ranges of any fish endemic to the Southern Ocean,” said Corso. 



“This limited range combined with their low reproductive capacity and the presence of early life stages in shallower waters suggest that this is a vulnerable species that could be impacted by the krill fishery.”



These dragonfish serve as a vital food source for many Antarctic species, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emperor-penguins-will-not-survive-the-current-rate-of-sea-ice-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">penguins</a>, whose populations are already under threat from changing environmental conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-akarotaxis-gouldae-honors-a-scientific-legacy">Akarotaxis gouldae honors a scientific legacy</h2>



The naming of Akarotaxis gouldae honors the legacy of the ARSV Laurence M. Gould, a vessel that significantly contributed to Antarctic research for over two decades.



The vessel’s decommissioning marked a shift in the U.S. Antarctic Program's priorities, highlighting the ongoing need for support and resources to continue studying the region's unique <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-ocean-day-a-unified-approach-to-protect-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>. 



“To me, the loss of the ARSV Laurence M. Gould marks a setback in the scientific study of the Antarctic region. Antarctica is warming faster than anywhere in the Southern Hemisphere, and there is untold biodiversity in the region that we’re only beginning to understand," Corso concluded.



"By naming this fish after the ship, we hope to honor its scientific contributions while also bringing attention to the need for additional resources to study this unique <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/overfishing-and-habitat-degradation-have-devastated-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem</a>."



This discovery emphasizes the urgent need to protect fragile ecosystems and the invaluable biodiversity they support.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://mapress.com/zt/article/view/zootaxa.5501.2.3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zootaxa</a>.



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New dragonfish species reveals the fragility of the Antarctic ecosystem

In the chilly waters off the western Antarctic Peninsula, scientists...

Butterfly wings are to the eye what symphonies are to the ear. Now, an international research team has uncovered an intriguing, genetic mechanism contributing to the vibrant and intricate patterns we see on butterfly wings. 



Their discovery? It is an RNA molecule that plays a key role in determining the distribution of black pigment on butterfly wings. And here's the surprise twist - it's not a protein, as we previously thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-code-of-butterfly-wings">Genetic code of butterfly wings</h2>



The study was led by Luca Livraghi, a postdoctoral scientist at George Washington University and the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a>.



Researchers have been intrigued for centuries by how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-learn-about-butterflies-day-an-enchanting-world-awaits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterflies</a> can generate the breathtakingly beautiful patterns and colors on their wings.



The genetic code in the cells of developing butterfly wings actually dictates the specific arrangement of color on the wing's scales - like the arrangement of colored pixels to form a digital image. Decoding this could pave the way to understanding how our genes construct our anatomy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proteins-are-not-the-only-players">Proteins are not the only players</h2>



Scientists have long known that protein-coding genes are pivotal in these processes. But when it comes to black pigments, this research paints a different landscape altogether. 



The team discovered that a gene producing an RNA molecule - not a protein - controlled where dark pigments were made during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-butterfly-migration-sparked-by-a-surge-in-vegetation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterfly</a> metamorphosis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rna-influence-on-butterfly-wing-patterns">RNA influence on butterfly wing patterns</h2>



"What we found was astonishing," said Livraghi. "This RNA molecule directly influences where the black pigment appears on the wings, shaping the butterfly's color patterns in a way we hadn't anticipated." 



Through examining the RNA molecule's activity, researchers found a perfect correlation between where the RNA was expressed and where the black scales formed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-evolutionary-paintbrush">An evolutionary paintbrush</h2>



"It is truly an evolutionary paintbrush in this sense, and a creative one, judging by its effects in several species," said Arnaud Martin, associate professor of biology at <a href="https://www.gwu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">George Washington University</a>. 



The team, in their curious endeavors, examined the newly discovered RNA in several other butterflies, diverging in evolutionary history around 80 million years ago. The result? The RNA had evolved to control new placements in the patterns of dark pigments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-rna-in-butterfly-wing-diversity">Role of RNA in butterfly wing diversity</h2>



"The consistent results obtained from CRISPR mutants in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-love-pretty-butterflies-and-that-complicates-data-for-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">several species</a> really demonstrate that this RNA gene is not a recent invention, but a key ancestral mechanism to control wing pattern diversity," noted Riccardo Papa, professor of biology at the <a href="https://www.uprrp.edu/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Puerto Rico</a>.



"This RNA molecule evidently plays a crucial role in the evolution of wing patterns. Who knows what other phenomena biologists might've missed because they weren't paying attention to the genome's dark matter?" concluded Joe Hanly, a postdoctoral scientist and visiting fellow at GW.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-assumptions-about-genetic-regulation">Assumptions about genetic regulation</h2>



The research fundamentally challenges our long-standing assumptions about genetic regulation. It throws open new avenues of exploration in studying how visible traits evolve in animals.



The genetic mechanism of butterfly wing patterns might seem like a specific niche in the scientific sphere, but its implications reach far and wide in the realm of biology.



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



The revelations stemming from this study not only illuminate the enigmatic processes behind butterfly coloration but also pave the way for a broader understanding of genetics in other species. 



As researchers continue to investigate the role of RNA in butterfly wing patterns, it is likely that similar genetic mechanisms exist across the animal kingdom. 



Future inquiries may focus on the possibility of RNA's influence in other phenotypic traits, providing fresh insights into evolutionary biology and genetics. 



This newfound appreciation for RNA as a functional player in developmental processes of butterflies compels scientists to reconsider their methodologies and assumptions, potentially leading to transformative discoveries across diverse biological fields.



So, the next time you admire a butterfly's wings, remember there's more than meets the eye. There's an intriguing genetic mechanism at play, dominated by an RNA molecule that's defining patterns of dark pigment. Talk about nature having a sense of sublime artistry!



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2403326121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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How do butterfly wings acquire their breathtaking colors?

Butterfly wings are to the eye what symphonies are to...

In our quest to understand the intrepid and often overlooked secrets of the animate wonderland we inhabit, we occasionally stumble upon a wonder that brings a new perspective to life. Enter the globular springtail, scientifically known as Dicyrtomina minuta, a tiny creature that is outdoing everyone in the field of jumps.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-springtail-s-acrobatic-jumps">The springtail’s acrobatic jumps</h2>



Globular springtails are, at most, a couple millimeters in length. They do not possess the ability to fly, bite, or sting. But, they can jump. 



Surprising as it may sound, the sprightly springtail is an expert at avoiding predators, merely by jumping. By the time you blink, they are airborne and out of sight.



So, how do <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-springtails-and-why-would-humans-not-exist-without-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">springtails</a> do it? They don't just bob up and down, like a bouncing basketball; instead, they flip through the air, executing the fastest known backflips on Earth.



Dr. Adrian Smith is a professor of biology at <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Carolina State University</a> and head of the Evolutionary Biology and Behavior Research Lab at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. Describing the spectacle, Dr. Smith compared the springtails' jump to the iconic spin of Sonic the Hedgehog.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="cD9gRN8hS6-3828870-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-hunt-for-the-globular-springtail">The hunt for the globular springtail</h2>



The process of studying these little jumping virtuosos was a rewarding adventure in itself. Dr. Smith's expedition to find globular springtails was relatively straightforward – he single-handedly located and recruited his research subjects by sifting through leaf litter in his own backyard. The main challenge lay in capturing their lightning-fast jumps on camera.



“Globular springtails jump so fast that you can’t see it in real time,” noted Dr. Smith. “If you try to film the jump with a regular camera, the springtail will appear in one frame, then vanish. When you look at the picture closely, you can see faint vapor trail curlicues left behind where it flipped through the one frame.”



Overcoming this challenge required the use of cameras capable of shooting a staggering 40,000 frames per second. Dr. Smith then stimulated the springtails into jumping by either shining a light on them or lightly prodding them with an artist's paintbrush.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-mechanics-of-the-jumping-springtail">The mechanics of the jumping springtail</h2>



Interestingly, globular springtails don't rely on their legs to jump; instead, they use an appendage called a furca that folds up underneath their abdomen. 



The furca is tipped with a tiny, forked structure. When the springtails jump, the furca flips down, pushing against the ground, and catapults them into a sequence of breathtakingly rapid backflips.



The springtails can launch themselves over 60 millimeters into the air - more than 60 times their own body length - and they typically travel up and backward instead of forward.



Jacob Harrison, a postdoctoral researcher at the Georgia Institute of Technology, pointed out that this lack of forward movement suggests jumping is mainly an escape tactic, not a form of general locomotion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mastering-a-rough-landing">Mastering a rough landing</h2>



The landing strategies of the globular springtail further provide insight into their unique <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insect-flight-is-powered-by-an-extraordinary-structure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">locomotion</a>. A common way of landing is by tumbling chaotically, very much like bouncing to a stop. 



Alternatively, they use a sticky forked tube, known as a collophore, which they can push out of their bodies to grapple a surface or halt their momentum. These findings offer a clear perspective on the flight and landing dynamics of the remarkable globular springtail.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impossibly-spectacular-performance">Impossibly spectacular performance </h2>



“This is the first time anyone has done a complete description of the globular springtail’s jumping performance measures, and what they do is almost impossibly spectacular,” said Dr. Smith. “This is a great example of how we can find incredible, and largely undescribed, organisms living all around us.”



The study shows us that our world still harbors many unsung heroes and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-leaf-eating-insects-have-a-huge-impact-on-forests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fascinating phenomena</a> waiting to be discovered.



In essence, the globular springtail's extraordinary performances, unique behaviors, and understudied status make it a promising candidate for further research. 



So, the next time you take a casual stroll in your garden or park, remember, there might be tiny creatures around you, ready to backflip their way into the record books.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/iob/article/6/1/obae029/7742965" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Integrative Organismal Biology</a>.



Video Credit: Ant Lab



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Tiny backyard bugs perform the fastest backflips on the planet

In our quest to understand the intrepid and often overlooked...

Looking back at the Cretaceous period, one cannot help but marvel at the dominance of the hadrosaurs, often referred to as duck-billed dinosaurs. The most advanced herbivores of their time, hadrosaurs, with their formidable teeth, were anything but passive eaters. New research reveals that these colossal creatures went through average teeth every two months, all thanks to their voracious appetite for plants. They may have had hundreds of thousands of teeth throughout their lifetime.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-embarking-on-a-jurassic-journey">Embarking on a Jurassic journey</h2>



To comprehend the dietary dynamics of these herbivores, we need to navigate back in time and trace the evolutionary trajectory of the ornithopods - a group of dinosaurs that encompassed the likes of Iguanodon, Hypsilophodon, rare rhabdodontids, and, of course, the hadrosaurs.



These plant-eating machines, comparable to modern-day cows and sheep in their feeding frenzy, first made their appearance in the Middle Jurassic. By the time the Cretaceous period took over, they were the reigning herbivores across vast <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-dinosaur-comptonatus-chasei-most-complete-discovered-unique-traits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">swathes of the world</a>.



The journey of hadrosaurs is much like a small start-up company evolving into a multinational corporation. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hadrosaurs-used-teeth-as-tools">Hadrosaurs used teeth as tools</h2>



The research was led by Dr. Attila Ősi from <a href="https://www.elte.hu/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eötvös Loránd University</a> in Hungary. She highlights the drastic changes in the teeth and jaws of ornithopods during their evolution. 



The Iguanodon, an early member of the group, took over 200 days to form their teeth and consumed at least the same amount of time to wear them down through chewing.



Fast forward to the end of the Cretaceous, and we see that hadrosaurs gnawed through their teeth in merely 50 days.



Clearly, the later ornithopods were binge-eating on tough plants that rapidly eroded their teeth. They needed to deploy reinforcements, building up reserves of teeth in their skulls to prevent themselves from going hungry. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-herbivory-harder-than-it-looks">Herbivory: Harder than it looks</h2>



Being a vegetarian isn’t an easy job, especially if you’re a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaur-teeth-reveal-their-eating-habits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur</a>. While meat dissipates easily in the gut, plants are composed of tough fibers and complex carbohydrates that are a bit more challenging to digest. 



It calls for teeth to lead the charge, breaking open plants and cutting them into smaller pieces for gut bacteria to disintegrate more efficiently.



“Across a herbivore's life, its teeth gradually wear down," explained study co-author Professor Paul Barrett. The constant wear and tear eventually led to the end of the tooth and subsequently the end of the animal, at least in the case of some mammals.



However, reptiles appear to have dodged this dental dilemma by continually producing new teeth. As a result, dinosaur teeth have become the holy grail for researchers delving into early animal evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transformation-of-ornithopod-chompers">Transformation of ornithopod chompers</h2>



The study focused extensively on the teeth and jaws of ornithopods, the planet’s most advanced herbivores in their time. Examination of well-preserved skulls offers a glimpse into the transformation of the dinosaurs' skulls, with increasingly complex features best suited for plant-eating.



“At the start, they had single rows of fairly simple teeth with limited wear, probably because these dinosaurs focused on fruits and softer plants," said Professor Paul.



These early ornithopods evolved into hadrosaurs with numerous teeth, a large blade-like edge on one side, and ridges on the other. This unique structure ensured sharp teeth as they ground against each other.



The evolution of ornithopods also marked new ways of jaw movement, allowing them to grind plants down even further. Their bodies grew larger to house more extensive guts better suited to release nutrients from plants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-hadrosaur-teeth">Mystery of hadrosaur teeth</h2>



So what triggered this evolution of tough teeth? Scientists believe that the diet of dinosaurs was dictated by the kind of plants available. One theory suggests that the rise of flowering plants might have influenced their dietary preferences. 



Microscopic wear patterns on teeth indicate changes in the type of plants consumed by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/incredibly-unusual-dinosaur-unearthed-in-mississippi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaurs</a> over time. Could the emergence of flowers be the reason? 



"While it is suspicious that the flowering plants start to diversify around this time, they were still pretty uncommon at the time," noted Professor Paul.



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



With their study on ornithopods completed, the team aims to extend their research to other herbivorous dinosaurs, like the ankylosaurs or the horned dinosaurs. Unveiling the dietary preferences and subsequent evolution of these creatures could help us better understand why they thrived during their time. 



"If we can find out what changes herbivores were going through at the time, it will give us a much better chance of understanding the place of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaur-with-huge-blade-like-horns-discovered-in-montana/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaurs</a> in the ecosystems of the Mesozoic Era," said Dr. Attila.



The teeth of dinosaurs offer a fascinating window into the world of the Cretaceous period, unraveling the mysterious ways in which these creatures evolved and thrived.



So, the next time you're biting into your favorite plant-based snack, spare a thought for the complex evolutionary processes that enabled us and our ancient ancestors to enjoy our greens. Who knew teeth could tell such compelling tales?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51697-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Some plant-eating dinosaurs chewed through thousands of teeth

Looking back at the Cretaceous period, one cannot help but...

The Leibniz Center for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT) has taken coral reef research to a whole new level. Dr. Julian Lilkendey and an international team of dedicated researchers have combined innovative AI technologies with stereo-video technology to study the movements of reef fish in the Red Sea with startling precision.



But how does this marvel work? Well, imagine a camera that can capture the tiniest detail and AI that paints every aspect of a 3D moving image.



This revolutionary technique takes us beyond the conventional two-dimensional observations, allowing for an in-depth study of the reef and its inhabitants. Just as we peel an onion layer by layer, these researchers are peeling back the mysteries of the sea.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="mZgUie5TWE-3827453-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-surgeonfish-story">The surgeonfish story</h2>



Diving deeper into this fascinating study, two species of surgeonfish became the stars. The team noticed some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-coral-reef-fish-survive-in-the-worlds-warmest-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intriguing behavior</a>.&nbsp;



The Brown surgeonfish seemed to prefer feasting on algae that grew on dead corals, while the Yellowtail tang was fond of a more varied palate, munching on algae found on sedimentary rock, coral rubble, and sand.



The researchers didn't stop at just observations. They used this advanced set up to estimate the energy expenditure of these fish as they moved and foraged around their natural habitat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-and-coral-reef-fish">AI and coral reef fish</h2>



What makes this research possible? AI. Dr. Julian Lilkendey described the advanced technologies used for the study. 



The team used YOLOv5 (You Only Look Once version 5), a real-time object detection neural network. Tuned with additional background images from the Red Sea, the AI was able to recognize and classify the fish species.



But the real challenge lay in training the AI model for species recognition. With limited specific training images, the team turned to the citizen science website iNaturalist for publicly accessible photos. The results were spectacular.



Next, they used the DeepSORT (Simple Online and Realtime Tracking with a Deep Association Metric) algorithm for 3D data acquisition. This impressive algorithm generates detailed 3D movement patterns of the fish, even when they sometimes disappear or are obscured by other objects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tales-of-coral-reefs-using-ai">Tales of coral reefs using AI</h2>



All this high-tech research isn't for naught. The findings have given us unique insights into the role of surgeonfish and their importance in maintaining the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-reveal-the-health-of-coral-reefs-in-real-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological balance of our coral reefs</a>.&nbsp;



"The Brown surgeonfish demonstrated specialized feeding behavior, preferring certain algae growing on specific substrates, in contrast to the generalized feeding behavior of the Yellowtail tang," said Dr. Lilkendey.



"Despite their low biomass, both species significantly contribute to reef grazing, using the energy obtained from food with similar efficiency in their movements."



Dr. Lilkendey also noted that changes in the feeding behavior and energy expenditure of surgeonfish could directly impact the health and biodiversity of the entire reef ecosystem.



The sophisticated methodological approach employed by the researchers has significantly enhanced their ability to explore the intricate dynamics of fish behavior and energy flows in aquatic ecosystems. 



By utilizing advanced techniques and innovative models, they can analyze various factors influencing fish interactions and energy transfer within their habitats. 



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



The methods used for the study are not only providing deeper insights into behavioral <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restored-coral-reefs-can-bounce-back-in-just-four-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">patterns</a> but are also facilitating the creation of "Energy Seascapes."



This concept allows scientists to visualize and understand the spatial distribution of energy resources in marine environments, ultimately contributing to more effective conservation strategies and sustainable management of fish populations. The implications of this research could reshape our understanding of marine ecology.



The findings are nothing short of revolutionary. They're our ticket to understanding how energy is absorbed, transformed, and distributed within the reef. And this wealth of knowledge? It's invaluable for developing health indicators and formulating novel protective measures for our reefs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-in-ai-and-reef-fish-research">What’s next in AI and reef fish research?</h2>



With this new research methodology, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reefs-in-some-parts-of-the-world-actually-benefit-from-warming-el-nino-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">possibilities are endless</a>. We're no longer just spectators, we're part of the scene, witnessing the lives of these fish, understanding their movements and behavior, and the energy they expend. 



It's a lens into the future, a chance to get a closer look at the ecological makeup of our underwater world.



So, what can we expect to discover next? Only time will tell. What matters most, though, is how we use this knowledge to protect the fragile balance of our planet's ecosystems.



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ece3.11070" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology and Evolution</a>.



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AI illuminates fish interactions in coral reefs

The Leibniz Center for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT) has taken...

Vultures, much like humans, tend to prefer the comfort and security of familiarity as they age, seeking out predictable routines and long-standing relationships that provide a sense of stability. 



This shift towards regularity and consistent social circles reflects a natural inclination to rely on known resources and trusted companions, minimizing risks and conserving energy.



New research published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences sheds light on this phenomenon among Griffon vultures. 



The study reveals that young Griffon vultures are far more nomadic and socially adventurous, frequently moving between different sleeping sites and engaging with numerous companions. 



This exploratory behavior allows younger vultures to gather critical information about food sources and potential threats, aiding their survival in the unpredictable landscapes they inhabit.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-young-vultures-the-nomadic-phase">Young vultures: The Nomadic phase</h2>



“What we found was as they age, their loyalty to certain roost sites increases,” said Noa Pinter-Wollman, a professor of ecology and evolutionary biology at <a href="https://www.ucla.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCLA</a> and co-author of the study. 



“Young vultures check out many different roosts but in middle age, they start going repeatedly to the same places.” 



Younger vultures tend to avoid the most popular roosts, possibly feeling intimidated by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/older-blue-tits-have-a-mating-advantage-that-involves-cheating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">older birds</a> or avoiding potential conflict, reminiscent of an avian version of “Hey you kids, get off my lawn.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-middle-age-stronger-bonds">Middle age: Stronger bonds</h2>



The study highlights that, similar to humans, older Griffon vultures form fewer but <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strong-social-bonds-promote-healthy-behaviors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stronger social bonds</a>, prioritizing quality over quantity in their relationships.



As they age, Griffon vultures also establish specific movement routines, preferring to return to the same familiar roosts and consistently associating with the same social circles.



The predictable patterns reflect their desire for stability and the benefits that come with established territories and social structures. This behavior is closely linked to their accumulated knowledge about food resources and environmental conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-patterns-of-griffon-vultures">Life patterns of griffon vultures</h2>



Griffon vultures, scientifically known as Gyps fulvus, inhabit the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and India. With impressive wingspans reaching up to 9 feet, they are much larger than North American turkey vultures and even bigger than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bald-eagles-dont-only-eat-fish-as-prairie-dogs-will-attest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bald eagles</a>. 



Their diet primarily consists of animal carcasses, which are unpredictable and often fleeting. 



Roosting sites become vital "information hubs" where vultures can signal to others about food availability, forming friendships that enhance their survival chances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-griffon-vultures-over-time">Tracking griffon vultures over time</h2>



The researchers aimed to understand how Griffon vultures' movement patterns and social behaviors evolve throughout their lives. 



By analyzing GPS data from 142 individually tagged birds in Israel over a 15-year period, they cross-referenced the vultures’ ages with their movement and social interactions at roost sites. 



The study revealed that young vultures are highly exploratory, rarely staying in the same place for two consecutive nights.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-exploration-to-familiarity">From exploration to familiarity</h2>



“When they are old, from the age of 10 onward, they no longer have the energy to be ‘out and about’ and return consistently to the same site,” said corresponding author Orr Spiegel from <a href="https://english.tau.ac.il/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tel Aviv University</a>. 



As vultures aged, their social interactions also shifted, with the strength of their bonds with non-close friends declining. 



Older vultures increasingly preferred the company of a few close friends and exhibited more predictable movement patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-behavioral-shifts">Understanding behavioral shifts</h2>



This long-term study, tracking the same vultures over nearly 12 consecutive years, provides insights into behavioral changes in aging birds. 



The findings support similar observations in other species, where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genetic-ties-influence-the-social-behavior-of-aging-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging animals</a> exhibit greater fidelity to familiar sites and routines and become more selective in their social relationships. 



These behavioral shifts offer valuable insights into how animal populations navigate their environments and interact with their peers, aiding in developing better <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/effective-conservation-efforts-key-to-saving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> strategies.



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



“It looks like they just get set in their ways,” noted Pinter-Wollman. “They’ve gathered information over the years, and they might as well use it. Carcasses are hard to come by, and roosts are information hubs.”



For Griffon vultures, this might involve protecting essential roosting sites and using knowledge of their social dynamics to mitigate threats like poisoning.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2407298121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Older griffon vultures have fewer friends with stronger bonds

Vultures, much like humans, tend to prefer the comfort and...

Once upon a time, a destructive “tag-team” of natural forces triggered catastrophic mass marine extinctions that reshaped the course of evolution on Earth, paving the way for new forms of life.



This powerful duo wasn't made up of marauding warriors or mythical monsters but rather the elemental forces of nature we still encounter today: land and sea.



Acting in deadly harmony, these powerful elements transformed marine life, disrupted entire ecosystems, and altered the planet's history forever.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mass-extinction-events-of-marine-species">Mass extinction events of marine species</h2>



In a recent study, researchers led by the <a href="https://www.southampton.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southampton</a> present startling new explanations for these drastic events.



The scientists have shed new light on an age-old enigma: the sequence of traumatic environmental crises known as oceanic anoxic events that occurred between 185 and 85 million years ago.



During these events, the oceans were dangerously low on dissolved oxygen, throwing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/overfishing-and-habitat-degradation-have-devastated-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine ecosystems</a> into turmoil and leading to mass extinctions of marine species.



"Oceanic anoxic events (OAEs) are transient perturbations to the global carbon cycle, during which large regions of the oceans are depleted in dissolved oxygen," noted the researchers.



"The resulting euxinic (anoxic and sulfidic) waters are highly toxic, leading to biological turnover events and, in extreme cases, mass extinctions of marine biota."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-triggers-for-the-extinction-events">Triggers for the extinction events</h2>



"Oceanic anoxic events were like hitting the reset button on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ecosystems-classified-for-the-first-time-across-the-entire-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet’s ecosystems</a>. The challenge was understanding which geological forces hit the button," said study lead author Professor Tom Gernon.



The study was an international effort, bringing together minds from universities in Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, and the United States.



The researchers set out to investigate how ocean chemistry was altered by the impact of tectonic shifts during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-were-not-the-only-animals-that-grew-fast-during-the-mesozoic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mesozoic era</a>, often known as the age of the dinosaurs.



The Mesozoic era marked the disintegration of Gondwana, a once vast landmass that dinosaurs claimed as their dominion.



"The Mesozoic era witnessed the breakup of this landmass, in turn bringing intense volcanic activity worldwide. As tectonic plates shifted and new seafloors formed, large amounts of phosphorus, a nutrient essential for life, were released from weathering volcanic rocks into the oceans," explained Professor Gernon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-land-sea-and-mass-marine-extinctions">Land, sea, and mass marine extinctions</h2>



According to Professor Gernon, the team found evidence of multiple pulses of chemical weathering on both the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-seafloor-nutrients-support-the-entire-food-chain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seafloor</a> and continents, which alternately disrupted the oceans. "It’s like a geological tag-team," he added.



The timing of these weathering pulses eerily lined up with most oceanic anoxic events.



The researchers propose that the weathering-triggered influx of phosphorus to the ocean acted like a natural fertilizer, boosting the growth of marine organisms. But this seemingly beneficial fertilization had a disastrous flip side.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-widespread-oxygen-depletion">Widespread oxygen depletion </h2>



The surge in biological activity resulted in large amounts of organic matter sinking to the ocean floor, consuming significant quantities of oxygen in their wake. 



This led to vast regions of the oceans becoming oxygen-depleted or anoxic, effectively becoming "dead zones" where most marine life could not survive.



“The anoxic events typically lasted around one to two million years and had profound impacts on marine ecosystems, the legacy of which even felt today," said study co-author Professor Benjamin Mills.



These events also led to the accumulation of organic matter-rich rocks, which today form the largest source of commercial oil and gas reserves globally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-echoes-in-today-s-oceans">Echoes in today's oceans</h2>



This mass extinction study not only offers answers to historical biological upheaval but also shines a spotlight on the dire effects of nutrient overloading in contemporary marine environments.



There is a haunting parallel with human activities today that have reduced oceanic oxygen levels by about two percent, causing a significant expansion in anoxic water masses.



“Studying geological events offers valuable insights that can help us grasp how the Earth may respond to future climatic and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-plants-thrive-under-environmental-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental stresses</a>," said Professor Gernon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-deadly-symbiosis">A deadly symbiosis</h2>



Ultimately, the research illuminates a potent connection between Earth’s solid interior and its surface environment and biosphere, especially during periods of tectonic and climatic upheaval.



“It’s remarkable how a chain of events within the Earth can impact the surface, often with devastating effects," noted the researchers. "Tearing continents apart can have profound repercussions for the course of evolution."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01496-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>.



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What caused marine mass extinctions millions of years ago?

Once upon a time, a destructive “tag-team” of natural forces...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



—–



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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







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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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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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