Portrait,Of,A,Wild,Octopus,Under,Water.

The octopus is a creature that continues to surprise scientists and inspire engineers. With eight arms that move in ways no human limb can, it demonstrates flexibility and control that seem almost otherworldly. 



Each arm bends, twists, elongates, and shortens with unmatched precision, enabling these animals to hunt, hide, and explore with ease. 



Researchers hope that unlocking the secrets of these movements may guide the design of flexible robotic arms capable of lifesaving missions.



Imagine a robotic arm slipping through rubble after a building collapse, delivering food or medicine to someone trapped below. 



This vision has motivated scientists to study octopus arms in detail - both in the laboratory and in their natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-dumbo-octopus-species-carnarvon-flapjack-discovered-in-very-deep-ocean-waters/">environment</a>.



Until recently, most studies were limited to tanks, where behaviors may not reflect the complexity of life in the wild. That gap is now being addressed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-octopus-intelligence">Understanding octopus intelligence</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/octopuses-could-dominate-earth-if-humans-vanish/">Octopuses</a> are some of the most intelligent invertebrates on Earth. Unlike most animals without backbones, they can solve puzzles, open jars, and even escape from aquariums by remembering routes back to the ocean. 



Their brains are incredibly complex, with about 500 million neurons - similar to a dog. What makes them even more fascinating is that two-thirds of those neurons are in their arms. 



This means each arm can sense, move, and even make decisions on its own while still communicating with the central brain. It’s like having eight mini-brains working together with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/octopuses-are-tricked-by-the-rubber-hand-illusion-like-humans-suggesting-self-awareness/">one big brain</a>.



Their intelligence also shows up in how they hunt and survive. Octopuses use tools, like carrying coconut shells to hide inside when threatened, and they can change color and texture in an instant to camouflage perfectly against rocks or coral. 



They’ve been observed watching other animals and learning from them, which is rare in the animal kingdom.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flexible-octopus-arms-inspire-robotics">Flexible octopus arms inspire robotics</h2>



A new study from the <a href="https://www.mbl.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Biological Laboratory</a> in Woods Hole and Florida Atlantic University has provided the most comprehensive analysis of octopus arm movements in natural habitats. 



Researchers recorded 25 wild octopuses in six locations, ranging from the Caribbean to Spain. The footage captured thousands of arm movements across a variety of behaviors, including foraging, locomotion, and even defense.



“I’ve been trying for a long time to work out the natural behavior of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sea-octopus-footage-could-revolutionize-flexible-robot-design-eyeris/">cephalopods</a> in their natural habitat,” said MBL Senior Scientist Roger Hanlon, who led the project. 



“Studying and recording octopus behavior from wild octopuses in the field gave us the opportunity to analyze a larger behavioral repertoire and further understand how they use their arms to achieve such complex behaviors,” added Chelsea Bennice, research fellow at <a href="https://www.fau.eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FAU</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-guided-by-touch-not-sight">Guided by touch, not sight</h2>



Octopuses rely heavily on touch, guided by sensory organs in their arm suckers. “The octopus is a very tactile animal - it’s more tactile than visual,” said Hanlon. 



Each of their nearly 100 suckers per arm contains chemosensory-tactile receptors, combining functions similar to the human nose, lips, and tongue.



Finding octopuses to observe was not simple. Their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-squid-power-their-amazing-camouflage-abilities/">camouflage</a> skills make them almost invisible in coral reefs or sandy seabeds. Divers often relied on clues like discarded shells and food debris near their dens.



Once located, octopuses emerged briefly from hiding, offering precious opportunities to record their natural actions.



These moments revealed unique hunting strategies, arm movements, and subtle interactions with their environment otherwise impossible to witness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-arm-mechanics-of-octopuses">Complex arm mechanics of octopuses</h2>



The researchers identified 12 distinct arm actions across 15 behaviors, built from four fundamental deformations: shortening, elongating, bending, and torsion. They discovered a pattern of specialization within each arm. 



For instance, elongation and shortening were most common near the base, while bending occurred more at the tips. 



This functional partitioning allows octopuses to combine motions across arms for tasks like crawling, probing reef crevices, or launching sudden prey attacks.



“These are the actions that make up the whole complex of octopus <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/octopuses-and-squids-defy-the-slow-pace-of-evolution/">behaviors</a>,” said study co-author Kendra Buresch. 



In the wild, researchers observed octopuses using different combinations of arm actions - sometimes relying on a single arm for tasks like grabbing food, and other times coordinating multiple arms for behaviors such as crawling or launching a parachute attack.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behavior-that-guides-technology">Behavior that guides technology</h2>



The findings go beyond understanding animal behavior. With nearly 7,000 observed arm deformations, the study highlights an extraordinary degree of control and flexibility. 



This knowledge may inform robotics research, where engineers seek to design soft, adaptable arms capable of both precise and exploratory tasks.



“Understanding these natural behaviors not only deepens our knowledge of octopus biology but also opens exciting new avenues in fields like neuroscience, animal behavior, and even soft robotics inspired by these remarkable creatures,” Bennice said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-in-flexibility-and-change">Lessons in flexibility and change</h2>



From the ocean floor to robotics labs, octopuses continue to inspire, offering lessons in both biology and technology. 



Their flexible arms not only influence the design of machines that could navigate disaster zones or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-deep-sea-crustacean-species-discovered-in-the-bahamas/">deep-sea environments</a>, but also remind us how problem-solving in nature often leads to solutions with real-world applications.



Beyond robotics, their adaptability symbolizes the broader principle that survival depends on innovation and change, a message equally relevant to ecosystems, human health, and future technologies.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-10674-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Octopus arms are probably the most complex and flexible structures in nature

The octopus is a creature that continues to surprise scientists and inspire engineers. With eight arms that move in ways no human limb can, it demonstrates flexibility and control that seem almost otherworldly. Each arm bends, twists, elongates, and shortens with unmatched precision, enabling these animals to hunt, hide, and explore with ease. Researchers hope that unlocking the secrets of these movements may guide the design of flexible robotic arms capable of lifesaving missions. Imagine a robotic arm slipping through rubble after a building collapse, delivering food...

Life on Earth was once ruled by the small, single-celled organisms swimming in the vast oceans. For an epoch, these tiny powerhouses were the kings and queens of the world, dominating for well over a billion years. Then came the period known as "Snowball Earth" that changed everything.



The reign of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cyanobacteria-may-shed-new-light-on-the-history-of-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">single-celled organisms</a> was seemingly endless, until Snowball Earth turned all known models of life upside down, roughly 700 million years ago.



This icy era was no ordinary winter. The entire globe was ensnared in such <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-was-a-giant-snowball-700-million-years-ago-and-now-scientists-know-why/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme glaciation conditions</a> that even the equator may have been blanketed in ice. 



However, it was during this frigid epoch that a marvel of evolution occurred -- the birth of multicellular organisms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-multicellular-life-and-the-oxygen-paradox">Multicellular life and the oxygen paradox</h2>



One of the biggest enigmas in biology is the sudden emergence and dominance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossils-capture-a-turning-point-in-the-evolution-of-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multicellular life</a>. Imagine a world where single-celled eukaryotes (organisms with intricate cells containing a nucleus) were the unrivaled rulers. 



Then, in the wink of a geological eye, multicellular life blossomed amid the frosty reign of Snowball Earth. The prevailing theory suggests that oxygen levels had to reach a critical point before single cells could band together, forming multicellular colonies. 



However, this theory falls short of explaining why the ancestors of today's animals, plants, and fungi all popped up simultaneously during this icy epoch.



The answer to this billion-year-old riddle has led researchers to delve deeper into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snowball-earth-may-not-have-been-frozen-solid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unique conditions</a> of Snowball Earth. 



One such scientist is William Crockett, a former Undergraduate Complexity Researcher at <a href="https://www.santafe.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Santa Fe Institute</a>, who put forward a compelling new model.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-snowball-earth-and-the-viscosity-factor">Snowball Earth and the viscosity factor</h2>



Crockett's study sheds light on the Snowball Earth mystery. The research team suggests that the physical conditions during this icy period, such as the increased viscosity of the oceans and scarcity of resources, might have led to the rise of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannibalism-cellular-level-common-across-various-life-forms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multicellular life</a>.



During this glaciated period, oceans were choked with ice, inhibiting sunlight, and hindering photosynthesis. These conditions led to a significant reduction in nutrients, creating a struggle for survival. 



According to the study, larger organisms, capable of filtering more water and seizing scarce resources, would have had a significant edge over their smaller, single-celled counterparts.



Crockett observes, "It seems almost counterintuitive that these really harsh conditions, this frozen planet, could actually select for larger, more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rewrite-the-textbooks-life-on-earth-did-not-arise-due-to-increased-oxygen-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complex organisms</a>, rather than causing species to go extinct or reduce in size."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-survival-of-the-largest-early-animals-thrive">Survival of the largest: Early animals thrive</h2>



By developing scaling theories, the researchers modeled how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organisms-called-protosterol-biota-lived-1-6-billion-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">different organisms</a> would have fared during these harsh conditions. 



The findings indicated that early ancestors of animals, similar to modern-day swimming algae that consume prey instead of relying on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-to-life-on-earth-photosynthesis-begins-on-the-quantum-level-with-a-single-photon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis</a>, would have prospered in this freezing environment. 



In stark contrast, single-celled organisms that depend on diffusion for movement and feeding, such as bacteria, may have shrunk in size. 



These findings highlight the selective pressure of environmental conditions during Snowball Earth, favoring larger, more complex organisms, and paving the way for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-exist-today-ediacaran-period-earth-weak-magnetic-field/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multicellular life’s emergence</a>.



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



The melting of Snowball Earth’s icy grip marked a new era for the newly evolved multicellular organisms. Liberated from the icy world's constraints, they diversified, leading to the wide variety of life we see today.



"The world is different after Snowball Earth because there's a new form of life on the planet," explains SFI Professor Christopher Kempes, the senior author of the study. 



"Our research suggests that these pivotal moments in Earth's history are not random occurrences, but rather predictable outcomes of planetary evolution." 



By understanding these patterns, scientists can gain insight into the fundamental processes that shape life's journey from simple beginnings to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rna-world-unraveling-mysteries-life-origin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complex ecosystems</a> and even intelligent civilizations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-snowball-earth-scavenger-hunt">Snowball Earth scavenger hunt</h2>



The study provides a new framework for interpreting Earth's past, offering hypotheses for ancestor organism features to hunt for in the fossil record. 



The team also believes their work could aid in the search for extraterrestrial life, helping identify conditions that might foster complex organisms' emergence <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-life-may-exist-on-one-of-jupiters-moons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">on other planets</a>.



The period of Snowball Earth was undoubtedly a time of extreme hardship, but it also served as a catalyst for life's greatest innovation: the transition from single cells to complex, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weak-magnetic-field-may-have-set-the-stage-for-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multicellular organisms</a>.



In unearthing the secrets of this ancient era, we better appreciate the resilience and adaptability of life on Earth, gaining insight into the transformative forces that have sculpted our planet’s rich tapestry of biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-snowball-earth-shaped-multicellular-life">How Snowball Earth shaped multicellular life</h2>



In summary, this remarkable research opens a new window into understanding the complex journey from single-celled organisms to the diverse, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ecosystem-behavior-earth-first-sea-creatures-stirring-water-drove-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multicellular life</a> that fills our world today. 



It is a story of survival, adaptation, and ultimately, evolution, shaped by the most inhospitable conditions our planet has ever experienced during a period of time known as Snowball Earth. 



In the face of adversity, life finds a way to thrive and diversify, which indeed is the greatest wonder of evolution.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2023.2767" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Past 'Snowball Earth' conditions drove evolution of complex multicellular life

Life on Earth was once ruled by the small, single-celled...

Tree mortality in the Amazon rainforest is a critical issue with significant ecological, climatic, and economic implications. The Amazon, often referred to as the "lungs of the Earth," plays a vital role in sequestering carbon dioxide, thereby regulating global climate. However, various factors are contributing to an alarming rate of tree mortality in this vast rainforest.



Amazon tree mortality is driven by increasing droughts, extreme weather events, and deforestation. The dying trees, which absorb carbon through photosynthesis when they are living, release carbon into the atmosphere during their decay. Rising tree mortality may turn the rainforest from a carbon sink to a carbon source.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fragile-carbon-and-biodiversity-reserves-nbsp">Fragile carbon and biodiversity reserves&nbsp;</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-rainforest-is-approaching-widespread-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon rainforest</a> is home to an enormous variety of plants and animals, and plays a crucial role in managing the effects of climate change by storing massive amounts of carbon, while helping regulate temperatures and rainfall regionally as well as globally.



By employing models which predict <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-identify-the-cause-of-tree-mortality-in-the-amazon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree mortality</a> and the subsequent changes in carbon balance, a new study published in the journal Earth's Future has found that some regions of the Amazon rainforest might pass a tipping point by the middle of this century.



“The Amazon rainforest biome is a crucial concern due to its vast yet fragile carbon and biodiversity reserves. Intact Amazon forests hold more than 20% of terrestrial species, house 100 billion tons of carbon, absorb atmospheric CO2, and regulate regional and continental climates by recycling moisture,” the authors wrote.&nbsp;



“Despite these critical functions, the stability and spatial continuity of the forest are threatened by climate extreme events such as droughts and storms, widespread <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coordinated-efforts-needed-to-slow-deforestation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deforestation</a> in the South, East, and South-West regions, as well as forest degradation in adjacent areas.”



According to the researchers, these factors increase the risk of reaching a tipping point, where intact forests may transition to carbon sources and even collapse within a few decades.&nbsp;



“As a result, it is crucial to reduce uncertainties and better understand the likelihood of such a tipping point, and take mitigative actions to preserve the health and resilience of the Amazon rainforest.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simulating-tree-mortality-in-the-amazon">Simulating tree mortality in the Amazon</h2>



The experts used ORCHIDEE-CAN-NHA, a groundbreaking land surface model, to simulate Amazon tree death and regrowth in the face of droughts. This model was calibrated and assessed using historical data from previous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-fires-diminish-forests-carbon-storage-ability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drought</a> events.



The scientists combined the use of this land surface model with four climate scenarios to project future changes in carbon movement and tree loss until the end of the century.&nbsp;



Although the climate models provided different specific outcomes - such as variations in wetting and drying - they all identified a warming trend over the next decades, particularly throughout the northeastern Amazon rainforest.



“These climate models display diverse patterns of climate change across the Amazon region. The simulation conducted with the HadGEM climate model reveals the most significant drying trend, suggesting that the Guiana Shield and East-central Amazon are approaching a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-still-prevent-critical-climate-tipping-points/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tipping point</a>,” noted the researchers.



“These two regions are projected to transition from carbon sinks to carbon sources by the mid-21st century, with the Brazilian Shield following suit around 2060. This transition is attributed to heightened drought-induced carbon loss in the future.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pinpointing-hotspots-of-amazon-tree-mortality-nbsp">Pinpointing hotspots of Amazon tree mortality&nbsp;</h2>



Better understanding which areas of the Amazon rainforest are most at risk for drying out and dying will help inform scientists about the carbon balance in the region and provide invaluable information about how to protect this ecosystem from the effects of a rapidly changing climate.



“This study makes an important step forward by providing a spatial image of the likelihood of drought risks and predicting the evolution of future Amazon rainforest net carbon balance, by resorting to a well-calibrated model that incorporates hydraulic failure induced tree mortality, and subsequent recovery from demographic processes, including recruitment and growth of survivor trees,” wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



“The predicted possible vulnerability state of the Amazon rainforest required further investigation and concerns on mitigation policies.”



-----



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



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



-----

Tree mortality is pushing the Amazon to a tipping point

Tree mortality in the Amazon rainforest is a critical issue...

For those of us who spend time gazing at the spectacular synchrony of birds flying together, one can't help but feel a surge of wonder. What drives these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-behavior-productivity-being-directly-impacted-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complex patterns</a> of bird migration? 



Is it just about the weather, food, or mates, or is there more to it? Tapping into this captivating mystery, our science community from the <a href="https://umd.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Maryland</a> brings us a fascinating insight into the social ties within the world of songbirds during their migration journeys.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-influencing-bird-migration">Factors influencing bird migration</h2>



The research was led by Joely DeSimone, a postdoctoral research scientist with the Animal Migration Research Group at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science's (<a href="https://www.umces.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UMCES</a>) Appalachian Laboratory, and Emily Cohen, an equally esteemed associate professor at UMCES. 



Working with four North American bird observatories, these researchers have new information that will make you rethink what you know about the migratory habits of our avian friends.



According to the study, it's more than just environmental factors that influence bird migrations. The social relationships among songbird species seem to play a key role here. Yes, our feathered friends are prone to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/songbirds-benefit-from-social-networks-during-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">socializing</a> on the move!



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenging-previous-assumptions">Challenging previous assumptions</h2>



It has always been a challenge to study interactions among migrating animals. However, this research has shown us that these relationships shape the very ecology of animal migration. 



"We found evidence of meaningful social relationships among migrating songbirds that have generally been thought to undertake solitary, independent journeys," DeSimone revealed. 



This indicates that social elements, like sharing information about habitat and predators or competing for food, could potentially influence their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/migratory-birds-are-struggling-to-adapt-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migratory success</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-positive-interactions-among-species">Positive interactions among species</h2>



But here's the clincher: these species relationships turned out to be mostly positive. So, instead of avoiding each other, these birds might be benefiting from these interactions during their migration. 



Data from bird banding stations, which capture thousands of birds pausing to rest between their migratory flights, contributed significantly to this research. 



Through social network analysis applied to over half a million banding records of 50 bird species collected over two decades, the researchers were able to unearth these interspecies relationships.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionizing-bird-migration-studies">Revolutionizing bird migration studies</h2>



"We found support for communities on the move," Cohen shared. This discovery could revolutionize how we study and conserve animal migrations. 



As we grapple with the impacts of human activity and climate change on animal migrations, such insights become pertinent. DeSimone and Cohen suggest that species-specific processes could ripple through entire migrating communities in ways yet to be explored.



"Learning that migrating birds are characterized by persistent, non-random assemblages of interacting species opens the door to myriad questions at the intersection between networks, migration, and the environment," said Steve Dudgeon, a program director at NSF.



This wonderful discovery provokes further questions. Do successful migrations depend on these networks? Are some relationships more crucial to migration than others? Could key links in these networks be more susceptible to environmental changes during the route?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-field-of-study">New field of study</h2>



By stirring our curiosity about these complex interactions among migrating animals, this research could be paving the way for a new field of study - the community ecology of migration.



It tosses an intriguing challenge to the scientific community to explore the nature and consequences of these species interactions. And who knows, it might just hold the key to effective conservation strategies in the future.



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



As the implications of these findings sink in, we must ponder their relevance within the broader context of conservation efforts. 



Understanding that social dynamics among <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-migratory-birds-navigate-with-such-accuracy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migrating species</a> play a pivotal role not only enhances our knowledge but also informs management strategies. 



Conservationists may need to implement collaborative measures that consider how birds interact during migration. By preserving critical habitats along migratory routes, we can support these complex networks, ensuring that our feathered friends can thrive amid changing environmental conditions.



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



Moving forward, the researchers are keen to delve deeper into the nuances of avian relationships during migration. Studies could explore more specifically how social structures vary across different species and environments.



Are particular social linkages more resilient in the face of climate change? Additionally, integrating advances in technology, such as tracking devices and genetic studies, could shed light on the dynamics of these avian communities in unprecedented ways. 



This exploration may not only enhance our understanding of migration but also provide insights necessary for preserving the delicate balance of ecosystems as we encounter an increasingly unpredictable world.



So, the next time you spot a flock of birds painting patterns in the sky, remember, there's more than meets the eye. It's not just nature's call they're answering; it's also about their social networking on the move!



This research was based on long-term migratory information from banding stations like Braddock Bay Bird Observatory, Michigan State Bird Observatory, Long Point Bird Observatory, and Powdermill Avian Research Center.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2322063121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Bird migration is influenced by social relationships

For those of us who spend time gazing at the...

In recent years, significant strides have been made in reducing the impact of seasonal flu epidemics through public health measures, surveillance, and vaccination efforts targeting human influenza viruses A and B. However, the potential outbreak of avian influenza A, commonly known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-next-pandemic-bird-flu-is-evolving-as-it-infects-new-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird flu</a>, in mammal species - including humans - poses a substantial public health threat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mutations-help-bird-flu-cross-species-barriers">Mutations help bird flu cross species barriers</h2>



The Cusack group at <a href="https://www.embl.org/sites/grenoble/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EMBL Grenoble</a> has been focusing on the replication processes of influenza viruses, and their latest study sheds light on the mutations that allow the avian influenza virus to replicate within mammalian cells.



Certain strains of avian influenza can cause severe disease and mortality, but key biological differences between birds and mammals usually prevent these viruses from spreading to other species.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-bird-flu-infect-mammal-species">How does bird flu infect mammal species?</h2>



To infect mammals, the avian influenza virus must overcome two primary barriers: it must gain the ability to enter mammalian cells and replicate within them. To trigger an epidemic or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-ecosystems-are-needed-to-prevent-future-pandemics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pandemic</a>, the virus must also evolve to transmit effectively between humans.



Unfortunately, incidents of avian influenza infecting wild and domestic mammals are becoming increasingly common. A particularly concerning development is the recent infection of dairy cows in the United States by an avian H5N1 strain, which risks becoming endemic in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cattle-may-become-a-permanent-host-for-bird-flu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cattle</a>. 



This development could facilitate the virus's adaptation to humans, with a few cases of human transmission already reported, though these have so far resulted in only mild symptoms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enzyme-responsible-for-virus-replication-nbsp">Enzyme responsible for virus replication&nbsp;</h2>



Central to this process is the viral polymerase, an enzyme responsible for the virus's replication within host cells. This versatile protein can rearrange itself to perform various functions during the infection process, including transcription - where viral RNA is copied into messenger RNA to produce viral proteins - and replication, where copies of the viral RNA are created to package into new viruses.



Studying viral replication is challenging because it involves two viral polymerases and a host cell protein called ANP32. These three proteins form the replication complex, a molecular machine essential for replication.&nbsp;



ANP32 acts as a stabilizer for certain cellular proteins, thanks to its long acidic tail. Although ANP32's critical role in influenza virus replication was identified in 2015, its precise function remained unclear until now.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polymerases-perform-distinct-functions-nbsp">Polymerases perform distinct functions&nbsp;</h2>



The new study, published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-51007-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>, reveals that ANP32 serves as a bridge between the two viral polymerases - replicase and encapsidase. These polymerases take on different conformations to perform distinct functions: replicase is involved in creating copies of viral RNA, while encapsidase helps package these copies into a protective coating, with the aid of ANP32.



ANP32's tail plays a crucial role in stabilizing the replication complex, enabling its formation within the host cell. Interestingly, while the core of the ANP32 protein is similar in birds and mammals, the tail differs significantly. This difference explains why avian influenza viruses struggle to replicate in mammals and humans.



“The key difference between avian and human ANP32 is a 33-amino-acid insertion in the avian tail, and the polymerase has to adapt to this difference,” explained Benoît Arragain, a postdoctoral fellow in the Cusack group and first author of the study.&nbsp;



“For the avian-adapted polymerase to replicate in human cells, it must acquire certain mutations to be able to use human ANP32.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-the-influenza-replication-complex">Insights into the influenza replication complex</h2>



To delve deeper into this process, Arragain and his collaborators obtained the structure of the replicase and encapsidase conformations of a human-adapted avian influenza polymerase from the H7N9 strain while interacting with human ANP32.&nbsp;



This structural information pinpoints the amino acids crucial for forming the replication complex and identifies the mutations that could allow avian influenza polymerase to adapt to mammalian cells.



These findings were made possible through in vitro experiments conducted at EMBL Grenoble, utilizing the Eukaryotic Expression Facility, the ISBG biophysical platform, and the cryo-electron microscopy platform via the <a href="https://www.psb-grenoble.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Partnership for Structural Biology</a>. 



“We also collaborated with the Naffakh group at the <a href="https://faireundon.pasteur.fr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institut Pasteur</a>, who carried out cellular experiments,” Arragain added. “Additionally, we obtained the structure of the human type B influenza replication complex, which closely resembles that of influenza A. The cellular experiments confirmed our structural data.”



These new insights into the influenza replication complex are valuable for studying polymerase mutations in other similar avian influenza strains. The structure obtained from the H7N9 strain can be adapted to study other strains such as H5N1.



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



“The threat of a new pandemic caused by highly pathogenic, human-adapted avian influenza strains with a high mortality rate needs to be taken seriously,” said Stephen Cusack, EMBL Grenoble Senior Scientist and study leader, who has been studying influenza viruses for 30 years.&nbsp;



“One of the key responses to this threat includes monitoring mutations in the virus in the field. Knowing this structure allows us to interpret these mutations and assess if a strain is on the path of adaptation to infect and transmit between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/avian-influenza-h5n1-marine-mammals-spreading-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mammals</a>.”



These findings are also significant for the long-term development of anti-influenza drugs, as there are currently no existing drugs that specifically target the replication complex.&nbsp;



“But it's just the beginning. What we want to do next is to understand how the replication complex works dynamically, in other words, to know in more detail how it actively performs replication,” Cusack concluded.&nbsp;&nbsp;



-----



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



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



-----

How does bird flu manage to infect mammal species?

In recent years, significant strides have been made in reducing...

Today, August 19th, is a special date is that is reserved to honor one of the most charismatic yet critically underappreciated animals in the diverse expanse of our planet. International Orangutan Day is dedicated to raising awareness about the conservation of orangutans, who are critically endangered due to habitat destruction, poaching, and the illegal pet trade. 



This occasion also highlights the importance of protecting the rainforests of Southeast Asia, where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-unlock-the-mysteries-of-orangutan-communication/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orangutans</a> primarily live, as their survival is closely tied to the health of these ecosystems.



Orangutans, sharing an astounding 97% of their DNA with humans, are truly the forest's beacon-bearers. Their survival is intricately intertwined with ours, and thus, it is our duty to protect them.&nbsp;



Orangutans are often referred to as "people of the forest." The name comes from the Malay and Indonesian words "orang" (person) and "hutan" (forest), literally meaning "person of the forest."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-international-orangutan-day">Significance of International Orangutan Day</h2>



International Orangutan Day isn't merely a day of wonderment at these amazing creatures. It serves as a wake-up call for action and commitment to the conservation of orangutans and the lush, verdant landscapes they call home.



These fascinating animals play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of their forest homes, acting as seed dispersers, and nurturing the growth of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-orangutan-treats-his-facial-wound-with-a-healing-plant/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitats</a>.



However, a rather somber reality lurks behind this celebratory occasion. Orangutans are threatened by the dire possibility of extinction, largely driven by deforestation, illicit pet trade, and hunting.&nbsp;



Their rainforest homes in Borneo and Sumatra are rapidly devoured by palm oil plantations, drastically shrinking their habitats.&nbsp;



Moreover, given their slow reproduction rate, the regeneration of orangutan populations is an agonizingly slow process. Without substantial aid, we might witness the unfortunate disappearance of orangutans from their wild homes in a mere 50 years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-makes-orangutans-so-loveable">What makes orangutans so loveable?</h2>



Orangutans are not just fascinating, but also deeply endearing animals that evoke empathy and admiration from those who encounter them. Orangutans have many characteristics that resonate with humans on an emotional level.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expressive-faces">Expressive faces</h3>



Orangutans have highly expressive faces, capable of displaying a range of emotions that are easily recognizable to humans, such as curiosity, contentment, and even sadness. This helps people feel a connection with them, as their facial expressions are relatable.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gentle-nature">Gentle nature</h3>



Unlike some other primates, orangutans are generally gentle and peaceful creatures. Their calm and slow-moving demeanor makes them appear thoughtful and kind.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maternal-bond">Maternal bond</h3>



Orangutans are known for their strong maternal bonds. Orangutan mothers are incredibly dedicated to their offspring, often caring for them for up to eight years. This long, nurturing relationship is something many humans find deeply touching.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-playful-behavior">Playful behavior</h3>



Young orangutans, in particular, are playful and curious, much like human children. They enjoy swinging from branches, playing with objects, and interacting with their environment, which can be very endearing to watch.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vulnerability">Vulnerability</h3>



The fact that orangutans are critically endangered adds to their lovability. Knowing that these gentle, intelligent creatures are at risk of extinction creates a protective instinct in many people, who want to help preserve them and their habitats.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-affectionate-interactions-nbsp">Affectionate interactions&nbsp;</h3>



In captivity or rehabilitation centers, orangutans have been known to form close bonds with their human caretakers, showing affection in ways that are reminiscent of human interactions, such as holding hands or giving hugs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-celebrating-orangutan-day">Celebrating Orangutan Day</h2>



So, who sparked this initiative, and who's driving the charge? Enter:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.worldorangutanevents.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Orangutan Events</a>&nbsp;and Orangutan Outreach. These global organizations and their relentless commitment form the soul of this event. They have made it their mission to ensure the survival of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/food-availability-influences-social-learning-among-orangutans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intriguing creatures</a> in their natural habitats.



Wondering how to contribute? There are many ways to get hands-on and show your support for International Orangutan Day.&nbsp;



Generating awareness, reducing palm oil consumption, and even virtually "adopting" an orangutan through a conservation program are just a few ideas.



You could also leverage your artistic skills to create and share orangutan-inspired artwork, or even use your knack for music to create a fun-filled playlist about the wild and orangutans.&nbsp;



Why not host a movie night featuring films and documentaries about orangutans and their rainforest homes? Or even engage in a dialogue about the challenges facing orangutans and encourage others to join the fight?



Education stands as a fundamental pillar in contemporary conservation efforts. By imparting a deeper understanding of orangutans and their habitats, we arm individuals and communities with the knowledge to make informed decisions that favor preservation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-efforts-on-orangutan-day">Conservation efforts on Orangutan Day</h2>



Conservation groups such as the Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Programme and <a href="https://orangutan.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orangutan Conservancy</a> support rehabilitation centers and research projects to protect critical habitats.



Eco-tourism can promote sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and local economies. By involving communities, we can strengthen conservation efforts and create lasting change. Together, we can help protect orangutans and their homes.



At its heart, International Orangutan Day goes beyond a celebration of these unique animals. It is a reflection on us, as our actions have pushed orangutans to the edges of survival.&nbsp;



Every action makes a difference. By uniting our efforts and raising awareness, we can create a brighter, more sustainable future for the "people of the forest" while preserving their rich culture and environment.



-----



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



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



-----

International Orangutan Day 2024: Protecting the 'people of the forest'

Today, August 19th, is a special date is that is...

Our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/all-domestic-horses-have-ancestors-in-russia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">equine friends</a>, horses, just galloped past the conventional wisdom about their intelligence. It turns out they're quite smarter than we've been giving them credit for, according to a fascinating study by Nottingham Trent University.



Leading the study is seasoned equine scientist, Dr. Carrie Ijichi, alongside fellow researcher Louise Evans from the School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences at <a href="https://www.ntu.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nottingham Trent University</a>.



The experts embarked upon this journey of discovery to understand more about how horses learn, a valuable insight that could help us train them more humanely and improve their welfare.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-the-intelligence-of-horses">Testing the intelligence of horses</h2>



The team set up a unique experiment to see how smart horses really are. The rules? Horses had to touch a piece of card with their noses to get a treat. 



A simple task, but the researchers added a twist. The horses were not rewarded if they touched the card while a light was on but rewarded when the light was off.



Despite the change in conditions, horses continued to touch the card whether the light was on or off, still bagging in those goodies they love so much.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-horses-can-adapt-to-the-rules">Horses can adapt to the rules</h2>



In a final twist, the scientists introduced an unexpected penalty - a 10-second timeout where the horses couldn't play the game or receive a reward if they touched the card while the "stop" light was on. Then, something remarkable happened.



The horses, rather abruptly, began to play the game "correctly," only touching the card at the right point to receive their treat. It was as if they were adapting their strategy, sticking with the game plan only when there was a risk of penalty involved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-are-horses-natural-geniuses">Are horses natural geniuses?</h2>



These clever responses from the horses were not anticipated initially. "At first, we found that horses would just keep touching the card over and over, as they probably realized they would still get a frequent reward with minimal mental effort," noted Dr. Ijichi.



However, the smart responses of the horses when penalties were introduced signified their understanding of the game. This ability to switch strategies and behave differently when a risk was introduced showed a surprising level of cognitive processing.



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



"Our horses immediately improved when we introduced a cost for errors. This suggests that the horses knew all along what the rules of the game were," said Louise Evans.



The results indicate that the horses were able to use a form of learning called "model-based learning." This cognitive capacity was thought to be beyond their reach.



Even more exciting is the fact that this cognitive ability is usually attributed to the human pre-frontal cortex. Horses, not having a well-developed equivalent, still demonstrated this level of sophistication, suggesting they are using a different part of their brains to achieve similar results.



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



As we venture further into understanding equine intelligence, this research opens the door to numerous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horse-miscarriages-offer-insights-into-human-pregnancy-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">future investigations</a>. Further studies could explore the extent of horses’ cognitive flexibility and how various environmental factors influence their learning processes. 



Additionally, examining differences in intelligence among various breeds could help refine training techniques tailored to individual horses' strengths. 



By continuing to expand our knowledge of equine cognition, we move closer to creating a world where horses are recognized not only for their physical prowess but also for their remarkable mental capabilities. 



Such strides in research could reshape our interactions with these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-horse-protection-day-respecting-the-needs-and-rights-of-horses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a>, leading to richer partnerships grounded in understanding and respect.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-leap-in-understanding">A leap in understanding</h2>



This study not only changes our perception of horses' intelligence but also prompts us to reassess how we understand animal intelligence as a whole. 



Horses aren't average - they're as unique and intelligent as any creature on this planet, each in their own special way.



So, the next time you see a horse just grazing around, remember they're not just brawn -they're full of brain too.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168159124001874?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Applied Animal Behaviour Science</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Horses have much higher intelligence than we thought

Our equine friends, horses, just galloped past the conventional wisdom...

Have you ever thought life was filled with similar looking faces? Turns out, the animal kingdom follows the same rule, only with a twist of evolution. Meet Ontocetus posti, an extinct walrus-like mammal who existed way before our current chunky friend, the walrus.



Filched from the depth of the North Atlantic by an ardent team of paleontologists, this marvel of the past brings unique insights into how evolution tinkers with life forms.



Dr. Mathieu Boisville, a paleontologist from <a href="https://www.tsukuba.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tsukuba</a>, Japan, was the one leading this group of fossil hunters. 



The team's work shines a spotlight on an extinct species that reportedly shared surprising similarities with the <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/is-a-walrus-a-mammal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">modern-day walruses</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ontocetus-posti-wrong-identity-right-species">Ontocetus posti: Wrong identity, right species</h2>



Norwich, United Kingdom, and Antwerp, Belgium -- from the storied soils of these regions, the fossils of Ontocetus posti emerged. 



Initially mistaken for another species, Ontocetus emmonsi, it took a rigorous examination of the mandibles to realize the truth.



A fantastic ensemble of features including four post-canine teeth, a larger lower canine, and a fused and short mandibular symphysis hinted that the remains actually belonged to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-mammals-have-evolved-over-66-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a new species</a>.



These features paved the way for Ontocetus posti's walrus-like suction-feeding capability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extinction-of-the-walrus-like-mammal">Extinction of the walrus-like mammal</h2>



What's interesting is how this genus managed to navigate from the North Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic. 



The journey, that took place during the Mio-Pliocene transition, was likely aided by the Central American Seaway.



This passage of water, crucial before the closure of the Panama Isthmus, expedited this intriguing migration. However, as the world began to cool down in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vanishing-giants-study-reveals-shocking-decline-of-large-mammals-in-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Late Pliocene</a>, marine life was significantly impacted.



This led to the unfortunate extinction of Ontocetus posti during the Early Pleistocene, paving the way for the cold-adapted Odobenus rosmarus, our present-day walrus, to evolve and thrive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-ontocetus-posti">Significance of Ontocetus posti</h2>



Examining the unique features of Ontocetus posti not only illuminates its own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-mammals-live-depends-more-on-climate-than-human-activities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary path</a> but also provides a fascinating glimpse into the dynamics of adaptation in marine mammals.



The morphological adaptations seen in this species underscore how environmental pressures can shape anatomical structures over millions of years. 



For instance, the development of specific dental traits, such as the enlarged lower canine, speaks volumes about the feeding strategies employed by these ancient mammals. 



Such adaptations enhance our understanding of the ecological roles that Ontocetus posti may have played within its environment, including its dietary habits and the competition it faced.



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



The study of Ontocetus posti opens new avenues for research into the evolutionary history of marine mammals and their responses to historical climate changes.



As paleontologists continue to uncover fossil evidence, there lies immense potential to deepen our understanding of biodiversity during periods of significant geological transition. 



Furthermore, the insights gained from Ontocetus posti's adaptation and eventual extinction could provide valuable lessons concerning current marine species facing rapid climate change.



By learning from the past, we may better prepare for the challenges that lie ahead in preserving marine biodiversity amidst shifting environmental conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comparative-anatomy-of-ontocetus-posti">Comparative anatomy of Ontocetus posti</h2>



A closer inspection of Ontocetus posti reveals important anatomical similarities and differences when compared to its modern counterpart, the walrus.



Notably, while both species exhibit traits suited for suction feeding, Ontocetus posti displays a distinctively narrower snout, which may imply different feeding strategies in response to ecological niches.



The arrangement and morphology of its teeth serve as a testament to its dietary adaptations, suggesting that it thrived on a varied diet that possibly included both hard-shelled prey and softer marine organisms. 



Additionally, the robust skeletal structure of Ontocetus posti hints at a different locomotion strategy within the water, one that could have influenced its ability to navigate both coastal and open-sea habitats.



Understanding these anatomical nuances not only enhances our comprehension of Ontocetus posti’s lifestyle but also enriches our knowledge of how evolutionary forces sculpt physical traits in response to environmental needs, thereby offering <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/is-a-walrus-a-mammal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deeper insights</a> into the adaptability of marine mammals through time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptation-and-survival">Adaptation and survival</h2>



The unearthing of Ontocetus posti illuminates the evolutionary path of walruses, underscoring how environmental changes have influenced the need for adaptation and survival mechanisms in marine mammals.



The feeding adaptations similarities between Ontocetus posti and the modern walrus best exemplify this process. It’s these dynamic evolutionary shifts across different periods and environments that keep the story of existence perpetually interesting.



It's quite thought-provoking how millions of years ago, an extinct species mirrored certain characteristics we find in existing species today. Truly, in the theatre of existence, the curtain never falls. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://peerj.com/articles/17666/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PeerJ</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Extinct mammal discovered that resembles a modern-day walrus

Have you ever thought life was filled with similar looking...

In the annals of biological history, perhaps no creature has been as widely known yet so poorly understood as the Dodo, a bird often depicted as the epitome of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-the-dodo-bird-be-brought-back-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinction</a> itself. 



Known to many as the poster child of extinction and mistakenly deemed a slow, unintelligent creature destined for a bleak fate, the Dodo has long been shrouded in misconceptions and myths. 



However, new research aims to challenge these long-held beliefs and unshroud the mystique surrounding the Dodo and its closest relative, the Rodriguez Island Solitaire, offering a fresh perspective on their true nature and place in history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dodo-s-true-origins">Dodo’s true origins</h2>



The newly published study, hailing from the collaborative efforts of the <a href="https://www.southampton.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southampton</a>, Natural History Museum (NHM), and <a href="https://www.oumnh.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxford University Museum of Natural History</a>, sets out to rectify the taxonomy of these long-gone birds. 



An exhaustive review of over 400 years of scientific literature and UK collections has been undertaken to ensure that the Dodo and the Solitaire are correctly classified.



According to Dr. Neil Gostling, a key author of the study, the Dodo was the first living thing that was recorded as being present and then disappeared.



This key event hinted at mankind's potential to influence the natural world in unprecedented ways, marking the beginning of a profound realization of human impact on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-biodiversity-crisis-is-actually-worse-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quest-for-the-truth">Quest for the truth</h2>



Historical depictions of the Dodo and the Solitaire were largely shaped by sailors' accounts, artists' representations, and incomplete remains, each contributing to a fragmented and often inaccurate picture of these birds. 



The absence of a definitive reference point led to centuries of misidentifications and the creation of non-existent species like the Nazarene Dodo, the White Dodo, and the White Solitaire, all of which fueled misconceptions and added layers of mystery to these already enigmatic creatures. 



Over time, these mythological beings were stripped of their mythical status and were rightly classified as giant ground doves, thanks to the tireless efforts of Victorian-era scientists who sought to bring clarity to the confusion. 



However, despite these advances, the exact count of species within this group remained contentious, with debates and discrepancies persisting for years. 



To unravel this complex puzzle, researchers embarked on a meticulous journey. They carefully sifted through hundreds of dated accounts and specimens housed in collections across the UK, striving to piece together the true story of these iconic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-have-wiped-out-hundreds-of-bird-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinct birds</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-setting-the-record-straight">Setting the record straight</h2>



"More has been written about the Dodo than any other bird, yet virtually nothing is known about it in life," said Dr. Julian Hume, a co-author of the paper.



The Dodo and Solitaire, even after 400 years of their extinction, continue to prompt heated debate. Through persevering work, the scientists have confirmed these birds were members of the columbid family.



Dr. Gostling emphasized that their loss equated to the extinction of a unique branch of the pigeon family tree.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disrupting-the-dodo-stereotypes">Disrupting the Dodo stereotypes</h2>



The widely accepted notion of the Dodo being a fat, sluggish creature predisposed for extinction is flawed, according to the researchers. 



"Was the Dodo really the dumb, slow animal we've been brought up to believe it was?" asked Dr. Young.



Contrary to popular belief, the Dodo, as per eyewitness accounts, was an agile creature favoring the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-herbivore-extinctions-drastically-affect-forest-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest ecosystem</a>. 



Dr. Gostling further supports this by indicating physical similarities between Dodos and today's running and climbing birds, suggesting that the Dodo was likely an active animal that was well-adapted to forest environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-relevance-for-today-s-conservation">Relevance for today’s conservation</h2>



"Understanding them might aid in ecosystem recovery in Mauritius, perhaps starting to undo the damage that began with the arrival of humans nearly half a millennium ago," said Dr. Gostling.



The research forms the bedrock of a broader project to decipher the biology of these iconic birds. 



"By understanding how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-birds-evolved-bright-colors-to-avoid-collisions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds evolved</a> in the past, we are learning valuable lessons that could help protect bird species today," noted study co-author Dr Markus Heller.



The efforts of scientists in unraveling the mystery of the Dodo are supported artistically by paleoartist Karen Fawcett, who beautifully brings this extinct creature to life through her detailed models.



With the backing of the University of Southampton’s Institute for Life Sciences, this interdisciplinary research promises to rewrite the history of these iconic birds.



-----



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



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



-----

Dodo birds were much more active than we previously thought

In the annals of biological history, perhaps no creature has...

The humble bumblebee, with a brain no bigger than a speck, is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bumblebees-showcase-smart-logical-reasoning-abilities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">capable of feats</a> that might leave us humans with our big brains feeling a bit inadequate. A new piece of research from Lund University in Sweden has shed light on the fantastic navigation of little bumblebees. 



Their secret? According to Rickesh Patel, a researcher in sensory biology at <a href="https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lund University</a>, bumblebees constantly monitor their direction and distance while flying, storing this information as spatial vectors in their long-term memory.



"Our study provides important keys to understanding how bumblebees can seemingly perform navigational feats similar to those of mammals despite their brain being the size of a pinhead," says Patel.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigation-bumblebees-vs-humans">Navigation: Bumblebees vs. humans</h2>



In quizzes between humans and bumblebees, the score might just be in the insects’ favor! The research, revealed in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, suggests bumblebees' sense of direction may indeed be superior to ours.



The bumblebees' capacity to store multiple spatial memories for convenient retrieval makes them expert navigators, even after long and winding flights. Don't you wish you had that when trying to come home late at night? It would save a lot of time fumbling with Google Maps and missed turns!



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bumblebees-expert-navigation-skills">Bumblebees' expert navigation skills</h2>



Yet, there’s much more to this story than just the fascinating secrets of bumblebee navigation. Imagine the potential impact of this knowledge on inspiring technological applications, particularly in the rapidly evolving field of robotics. 



The insights gained from studying how these remarkable insects navigate can lead to groundbreaking advancements in robotic systems designed for complex navigation tasks. 



We are talking about challenges that require innovative solutions that are not only effective but also economical in terms of computation and energy usage.



Patel noted that leveraging nature's strategies can pave the way for the development of energy-efficient robots capable of performing intricate maneuvers in various environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-gps-no-problem">No GPS? No problem</h2>



Clueless about where to go without GPS? Well, that's not a problem for our buzzing friends. And this has potential benefits for us, too. Notably, in cases of autonomous navigation robots operating sans GPS satellites.



Picture robots navigating through disaster zones, war fields, or caves where satellite signals may not work. 



The bumblebee's way of handling geographic information could be the key to developing such autonomous robots. These bots could be indispensable in search-and-rescue missions in crisis situations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-network-of-bumblebees-navigation">Network of bumblebees navigation</h2>



Bumblebees don't just navigate expertly; they also thrive in their social structures, which plays a crucial role in their survival. 



These insects operate within colonies that can consist of dozens to hundreds of members, each fulfilling specific roles, from foragers to nest guardians. 



Their ability to communicate effectively through intricate dances and pheromones ensures that vital information - like the location of rich pollen sources - is shared swiftly amongst the colony.



Understanding this social dynamic not only sheds light on bumblebee behavior but also provides <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bumblebees-may-be-capable-of-cultural-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">valuable insights</a> into cooperative strategies that could enhance team-based approaches in both ecological studies and robotics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-on-biodiversity-and-ecosystems">Impacts on biodiversity and ecosystems</h2>



The remarkable navigation skills of bumblebees extend beyond their individual survival; they have significant ecological implications as key pollinators in various ecosystems. 



By effectively locating and accessing floral resources, bumblebees contribute to the reproduction of numerous plant species, which in turn supports overall biodiversity. 



This highlights the interconnectedness of life forms within an ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of preserving bumblebee populations. 



As we delve deeper into their navigational prowess, we must also reflect on the conservation of their habitats and the challenges they face, such as habitat destruction and climate change, to ensure the stability of the ecosystems they help sustain.



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



But Patel and his team aren't done. They believe this study has more implications. It throws a light on how we view animals and their cognitive abilities, especially those with small brains.



It shows us that complex navigational skills, which we assumed were the privilege of the big-brained (like us humans), aren't so exclusive after all. It makes us wonder, what else could we learn from the humble bumblebee and its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-bumblebees-hold-their-breath-and-survive-underwater/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tiny-brained kin</a>?



Science has a way of making us realize that wisdom and intelligence come in all sizes. And it's in the nature of science, and indeed the nature of humankind, to never stop learning. Our buzzing friends the bumblebees just taught us a new lesson!



Perhaps it’s time we put our big brains to the task and learn to navigate life with a little help from our winged guides? 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2402509121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Can bumblebees navigate better than humans?

The humble bumblebee, with a brain no bigger than a...

A,Massive,Asteroid,Enters,Earth's,Atmosphere,And,Impacts,The,Planet

For the past several decades, the scientific community has been deeply invested in figuring out where the asteroid came from that caused the massive extinction of the dinosaurs about 66 million years ago.



This significant event transformed Earth's biodiversity and ignited a plethora of theories and discussions among researchers. 



Recent studies have furthered this dialogue, revealing intriguing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nuclear-winter-dinosaurs-were-likely-killed-by-dust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insights and evidence </a>suggesting that the asteroid may have originated from a specific region of the asteroid belt.



How might these discoveries reshape our understanding of Earth’s history? They could provide valuable context for how cosmic events have influenced life on our planet and prepare us for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-would-happen-small-asteroid-hit-earth-nasa-ai-simulation-found-out/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential future encounters</a> with similar celestial objects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-asteroid-beyond-jupiter-killed-the-dinosaurs">Asteroid beyond Jupiter killed the dinosaurs</h2>



Mario Fischer-Godde, a geochemist at the <a href="https://portal.uni-koeln.de/en/uoc-home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cologne</a> and the lead author of the study, provides key insights into the origins of the asteroid.



His findings suggest that the asteroid that wiped out the dinosaurs probably formed beyond Jupiter's orbit in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eris-and-makemake-icy-dwarf-planets-in-our-own-solar-system-may-support-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kuiper Belt</a>.



This is very surprising because it goes against what most scientists have believed about the Chicxulub impactor's composition and path.



The discovery came from analyzing ruthenium isotopes in sediment samples from the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary, which marks the time of the impact.



Ruthenium, an element that's common in asteroids but rare on Earth, gave the key evidence needed to trace the origins of this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/near-earth-asteroid-may-be-a-fragment-of-the-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">important asteroid</a>.



“Our lab in Cologne is one of the rare labs that can do these measurements,” Fischer-Godde noted, emphasizing the unique capabilities that allowed this research to unfold.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-the-asteroid-on-the-dinosaurs">Impact of the asteroid on the dinosaurs</h2>



When the asteroid hit Chicxulub, it kicked off a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-survived-the-dinosaur-extinction-by-pulling-nitrogen-from-the-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">series of catastrophic events</a>. The initial impact created a massive explosion, launching a huge fireball and sending molten rock and ash soaring into the atmosphere.



It also triggered giant tsunamis that raced across the oceans, while the shockwave flattened forests and sparked wildfires all over the globe.



One of the biggest consequences was the huge amount of dust and sulfur shot into the atmosphere. This led to a sharp drop in global temperatures, a phenomenon we call "impact winter."



With less sunlight, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-true-survivors-flowering-plants-lived-through-the-dinosaur-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food chains started to collapse</a>, beginning with plants and affecting herbivores and carnivores too. This environmental disaster ultimately spelled the end for the dinosaurs and many other life forms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-chicxulub">What is Chicxulub?</h2>



Simply put, the Chicxulub crater is where the asteroid hit that led to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/violent-volcanic-eruptions-likely-caused-dinosaur-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinction of the dinosaurs</a>. This huge crater is about 150 kilometers (93 miles) wide and goes deep into the Earth’s crust. 



Scientists think the asteroid that made this giant hole was around 10 to 15 kilometers (6 to 9 miles) wide.



When it struck Earth, it released energy equivalent to billions of atomic bombs, instantly vaporizing everything at the impact site and sending shockwaves and debris flying into the atmosphere.



Geologists discovered the Chicxulub crater in the late 1970s while looking for oil. They found a circular pattern of gravitational anomalies under the Yucatan Peninsula, which hinted at a large, buried structure.



Further digging showed it was an impact crater, and by the 1990s, scientists connected it to the mass extinction event that wiped out the dinosaurs and many other species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-it-was-an-asteroid-not-a-comet">It was an asteroid, not a comet</h2>



Before this discovery, most scientists believed that the object responsible for the catastrophic event was a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/devil-comet-is-visible-in-the-northern-hemisphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">comet</a> -- an icy body from the far reaches of the solar system, where it’s super cold and perfect for forming these kinds of celestial objects.



Just last year, a detailed study used advanced statistical simulations to suggest that this comet was indeed the trigger for the major incident that changed Earth’s history.



However, Fischer-Godde’s recent findings really shake up that long-standing view, providing strong evidence that the impactor is more similar to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-ryugu-holds-clues-about-bombardment-in-the-early-solar-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">C-type asteroids</a>, which are usually found in the asteroid belt beyond Jupiter.



This is an important revelation because C-type asteroids, rich in carbon and often containing water, are much less commonly seen than their more familiar S-type cousins from the inner solar system that are mostly made of silicate materials. The fact that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-new-quasi-moon-will-stick-around-for-hundreds-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">C-type asteroids</a> are rare makes this discovery even more significant.



Even though we don’t run into these elusive asteroids often, the potential fallout from a collision with a C-type asteroid would be huge, as shown by the Chicxulub event that caused the extinction of the dinosaurs around 66 million years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preparing-for-future-asteroid-impacts">Preparing for future asteroid impacts</h2>



This new perspective helps us understand history and guides our preparation for future space threats. Given the devastation caused by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-2013-wv44-is-bigger-than-ten-buses-and-its-headed-our-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">C-type asteroids</a>, Fischer-Godde stressed the importance of identifying their Earth-crossing orbits.



He warned, “If we find that earlier mass extinction events could also be related to C-type asteroid impacts, then… if there's ever going to be a C-type asteroid on an Earth-crossing orbit, we have to be very careful.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dinosaurs-asteroids-and-earth-s-history">Dinosaurs, asteroids, and Earth’s History</h2>



The Chicxulub impact is a crucial clue that can reveal secrets about Earth's history. Thanks to modern techniques, scientists like Fischer-Godde can explore not just where specific impactors came from, but also the bigger picture of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-algorithm-may-reveal-hundreds-of-potentially-hazardous-asteroids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asteroid collisions with Earth</a>.



This research is part of a growing effort to understand Earth's history through cosmic events. Each new discovery adds another piece to the puzzle, helping us see how these ancient collisions shaped our planet's environment and life.



Summing up, the asteroid that caused the dinosaurs' extinction traveled a very long way to get to Earth -- it came from beyond Jupiter.



By studying ruthenium isotopes in the sediment layers left by the impact, scientists like Mario Fischer-Godde are resolving age-old mysteries and charting a course for future research into planetary defense and life's origins.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adk4868">Science</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Massive asteroid killed the dinosaurs, and we finally know where it came from

For the past several decades, the scientific community has been...

Dogs have been <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/modern-dogs-have-larger-brains-than-ancient-dog-breeds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">man's best friend</a> for as long as most can remember, but would you believe the furry friends we adore were once embroiled in a cultural showdown centuries ago? It's a story of indigenous dog lineages that begins in the historical Jamestown colony, nestled by the Chesapeake Bay, once known by its Algonquian name, Tsenacomoco.



The study was led by Ariane Thomas, a recent anthropology PhD graduate from the University of Iowa, and researchers from the <a href="https://illinois.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign</a> and the <a href="https://uiowa.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Iowa</a>.



The team's pursuit was simple: unravel the mysterious disappearance of indigenous North American dog lineages, believed to have been replaced by European ones from 1492 onwards. Looking for answers, they turned to the expansive collection of canid remains at Jamestown.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-indigenous-dog-lineages">Indigenous dog lineages </h2>



What stands out here is the shared bond between Europeans and Native Americans regarding their love for dogs. This companionship was not just a matter of having a pet; it was deeply intertwined with their cultural identities. 



For both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dingoes-and-modern-dogs-share-very-little-dna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">groups</a>, dogs represented loyalty, companionship, and even status within their communities. However, this mutual affection also led to conflict, as each side sought to express their unique cultural values through their relationships with these animals. 



The differing perspectives on dog ownership and their roles in society created friction, prompting questions about identity, belonging, and the impact of cultural exchange. 



What happened next is a fascinating exploration of how these relationships evolved amidst changing dynamics and influence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unleashing-questions-and-clues">Unleashing questions and clues</h2>



“Previous studies had suggested that there were a lot of indigenous dogs in the continental United States and that they were eradicated," said Thomas. "We wanted to understand what that entailed: when it happened, were they culled, was it the competition with European dogs, or was it disease?”



The research team got to work, selecting 22 canid remains from the Jamestown colony for a deep-dive into their DNA. The findings were jaw-dropping.



Most of the Jamestown dogs, estimated on body size, weighed between 22-39 lbs, equivalent to our familiar beagles or schnauzers. More tellingly, traces of human-inflicted damage including burning and cut marks were found on many of the bones.



“The cut marks and other butchery marks we found on them show that some of these dogs were eaten. The colonists didn’t have enough food and they had to rely on the indigenous dogs in the area,” Thomas explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-endurance-of-indigenous-dog-breeds">Endurance of indigenous dog breeds </h2>



But the story doesn't end there. Recent studies revealed fascinating insights into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dingoes-and-modern-dogs-share-very-little-dna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA sequences</a> of various dog breeds, showcasing that at least six dogs exhibited evidence of indigenous North American ancestry.



This discovery implies that indigenous dogs were able to endure and adapt, at least for a time, even after the arrival of Europeans in North America. These dogs likely played significant roles in the lives of Indigenous peoples, serving as companions, hunters, and protectors.



Their resilience highlights the deep connections between these dogs and the cultures they served, reminding us of the rich history and interwoven narratives of humans and dogs throughout time. 



Understanding this heritage is crucial to appreciating the diverse roles that dogs have played in human societies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-revelations">Surprising revelations</h2>



While the colonists and Indigenous tribes likely engaged in the trade of dogs, researchers are also considering the intriguing possibility of interbreeding between these groups without an emphasis on maintaining pure lineages. 



This concept introduces a fascinating new avenue for study, shedding light on the complexities of human-animal relationships during that period. Such interbreeding could have led to the diverse traits seen in dog breeds today. 



The research team plans to broaden their scope by expanding to additional sites for further analysis, hoping to uncover more about the historical interactions between colonists, Indigenous tribes, and the canine companions they shared. 



This exploration could significantly enhance our understanding of the evolution of domestic dogs and their roles in various cultures.



This pioneering research marks an important step in understanding the complex social history of dogs during the early colonial period. It could spark similar studies dealing with human-animal dynamics in other historical periods.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/american-antiquity/article/dogs-of-tsenacomoco-ancient-dna-reveals-the-presence-of-local-dogs-at-jamestown-colony-in-the-early-seventeenth-century/960B1D0EC96B492E0AFDA088CEB949E0">American Antiquity</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Why did indigenous dog lineages of North America disappear?

Dogs have been man's best friend for as long as...

Without honey bees and other pollinators, life on Earth would be very different, and humans simply wouldn't exist... that's how vital they are to our planet and to humanity. On the third Saturday of August each year, World Honey Bee Day is celebrated to <a href="https://thebeeconservancy.org/#:~:text=The%20Bee%20Conservancy%20strives%20to,for%20bees%20and%20communities%20everywhere." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">raise awareness</a> about the importance of honey bees and other pollinators. 



The ultimate goal of this occasion is to educate people about the crucial role of honey bees in our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-pollinators-wild-bees-boosts-food-supply-income/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food supply</a>. These remarkable creatures are responsible for pollinating about 70% of the crops that feed 90% of the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-world-honey-bee-day-a-global-event">World Honey Bee Day: A global event</h2>



World Honey Bee Day began in 2009 as a grassroots movement in the United States, initiated by beekeepers to promote beekeeping and the importance of honey bees.&nbsp;



Since then, it has grown into a global event, with various activities such as educational workshops, beekeeping demonstrations, and community events that emphasize the conservation of bee habitats and the importance of supporting beekeeping.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-would-the-world-be-like-without-honey-bees">What would the world be like without honey bees?</h2>



A world without honey bees would have profound effects on both the environment and the global food supply.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduced-crop-yields">Reduced crop yields</h3>



Many fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds depend on honey bees for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-expansion-linked-to-global-decline-of-wild-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollination</a>. Without honey bees, these crops would have significantly lower yields, leading to food shortages and higher prices. For example, almonds, apples, blueberries, and cucumbers would become scarce.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decline-in-food-diversity">Decline in food diversity</h3>



Honey bees pollinate a wide variety of crops, contributing to the diversity of our diets. Without them, many of these foods would become rare or disappear, leading to a more monotonous diet that relies heavily on wind-pollinated or self-pollinated plants like grains.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-impact">Economic impact</h3>



The agricultural industry relies heavily on honey bees for pollination services. A decline in honeybee populations would hurt farmers, particularly those growing high-value crops like almonds and berries. The economic ripple effect would extend to related industries, from food processing to retail.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-consequences">Environmental consequences</h3>



Honey bees contribute to the health of ecosystems by helping plants reproduce. Their absence could lead to reduced plant diversity, which would affect entire ecosystems, including the animals that depend on these plants for food and shelter.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increased-reliance-on-other-pollination-methods">Increased reliance on other pollination methods</h3>



In the absence of honey bees, farmers might need to resort to less efficient and more expensive pollination methods, such as hand pollination or relying on other insect species. This could increase the cost of food production and further strain resources.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-impacts">Biodiversity impacts</h3>



The loss of honey bees would lead to a decline in biodiversity, as many plants that rely on bee pollination might fail to reproduce effectively. This could have cascading effects on wildlife that depend on these plants for survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-major-threats-to-honey-bees">Major threats to honey bees</h2>



World Honey Bee Day also highlights the challenges that honey bees face, such as habitat loss, pesticides, climate change, and diseases, which have led to declining bee populations.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pesticides">Pesticides</h3>



Exposure to certain pesticides, particularly neonicotinoids, can be highly toxic to honeybees. These chemicals can impair their navigation, foraging behavior, and immune systems, leading to increased mortality.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitat-loss">Habitat loss</h3>



The loss of natural habitats due to urbanization, agricultural expansion, and deforestation reduces the availability of food sources and nesting sites for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honeybees-can-shed-light-on-the-health-of-cities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">honey bees</a>. Monoculture farming, which often lacks the diversity of flowering plants that bees need, exacerbates this issue.



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



Changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollinators-face-extinction-risk-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate patterns</a> affect the availability of food for bees by altering the blooming times of flowers. Extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods, can also disrupt bee populations and their food sources.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-varroa-mites">Varroa mites</h3>



These parasitic mites are a major threat to honeybee colonies. They feed on bee larvae and adults, weakening them and making them more susceptible to diseases. Varroa mites also transmit viruses that can decimate bee colonies.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diseases-and-pathogens">Diseases and pathogens</h3>



Honey bees are vulnerable to various diseases, including American foulbrood, Nosema, and multiple viruses. The spread of these diseases is often exacerbated by weakened immunity due to stressors like pesticides and poor nutrition.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-poor-nutrition">Poor nutrition</h3>



With the decline in diverse flowering plants, bees often suffer from poor nutrition. This lack of a varied diet can weaken their immune systems, making them more vulnerable to diseases and reducing their overall resilience.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invasive-species">Invasive species</h3>



The introduction of non-native species, such as the Asian hornet, poses a threat to honeybees. These invasive species can prey on bees, disrupt their habitats, or compete with them for food.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-colony-collapse-disorder-nbsp">Colony collapse disorder&nbsp;</h3>



In recent years, honeybee populations have been declining due to a phenomenon called colony collapse disorder, where worker bees abandon the hive. This has raised concerns about the impact on global agriculture.



These threats often interact synergistically, making the overall impact on honeybee populations more severe. Conservation efforts and sustainable agricultural practices are critical to addressing these challenges and supporting honeybee populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-facts-about-honey-bees">Fascinating facts about honey bees </h2>



Honey bees are fascinating creatures with many interesting traits that highlight their complexity and importance to ecosystems.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-social-structure-nbsp">Complex social structure&nbsp;</h3>



Honey bees live in colonies with a highly organized social structure consisting of a single queen, many female worker bees, and a few male drones. Each bee has a specific role within the hive.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-queen-bee-nbsp">The queen bee&nbsp;</h3>



The queen bee is the only fertile female in the hive, and her primary role is to lay eggs. She can lay up to 2,000 eggs per day during peak season.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-worker-bees">Worker bees</h3>



Worker bees, all of whom are female, perform various tasks throughout their life, including nursing the young, building and cleaning the hive, foraging for nectar and pollen, and guarding the hive.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-communication-through-dance">Communication through dance</h3>



Honey bees communicate with each other using a "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bees-perform-waggle-dance-to-share-the-location-of-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">waggle dance</a>" to convey the direction and distance of food sources. This dance is a sophisticated form of communication that includes both movement and sound.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hexagonal-honeycombs">Hexagonal honeycombs</h3>



Honey bees build their hives using hexagonal cells made of beeswax. The hexagon shape is the most efficient for maximizing space and structural stability.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollination-powerhouses-nbsp">Pollination powerhouses&nbsp;</h3>



Honey bees are critical pollinators, responsible for pollinating around 75% of the fruits, vegetables, and nuts we eat. Their pollination activities are vital for maintaining biodiversity and food security.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exceptional-memory">Exceptional memory</h3>



Honey bees have an exceptional memory, allowing them to remember the locations of flowers and navigate back to the hive from long distances.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temperature-control">Temperature control</h3>



Honey bees regulate the temperature of their hive by clustering together and vibrating their wing muscles to generate heat in cold weather, or by fanning their wings to cool the hive in hot weather.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-celebrate-world-honey-bee-day-nbsp">Celebrate World Honey Bee Day&nbsp;</h2>



Planting native wildflowers, creating bee-friendly gardens, and protecting natural habitats can help support bee populations. 



You can also purchase honey and other bee-related products from local beekeepers. This helps support sustainable beekeeping practices and the local economy.&nbsp;



Promoting the use of bee-friendly pesticides and integrated pest management (IPM) practices can mitigate the impact of harmful chemicals.



Furthermore, encouraging organic farming and other sustainable practices can reduce the reliance on chemical inputs that harm bees.



Ongoing research to understand bee health, genetics, and behavior is essential for developing effective conservation strategies. Monitoring bee populations helps track changes and identify emerging threats.



Conserving honey bees is not just about protecting a single species; it's about preserving the intricate web of life that depends on them, including our own food systems.



-----



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



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



-----

World Honey Bee Day 2024: Protecting our vital pollinators

Without honey bees and other pollinators, life on Earth would...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



—–



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



—–



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



—–

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



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



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



-----

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



-----



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



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



-----

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



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



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



-----

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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







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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



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



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



-----

What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



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



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



-----

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



---



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



---



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



---



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



---



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



---



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



---



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



---



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



---



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

News coming your way