In the wild mountain ranges of Morocco and northeast Algeria, there’s a small, shimmering butterfly that most people have never heard of. It flutters through cedar forests and scrubby hillsides, unnoticed by nearly everyone. But deep inside its cells, this insect is doing something no other animal has ever been seen to do.



This butterfly, called the Atlas blue, just set a world record. And scientists are paying attention - not just because it’s rare, but because its strange biology could help us understand one of the most complex problems in science: how species evolve, and even how cancer works.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-butterfly-with-chopped-up-chromosomes">Butterfly with chopped up chromosomes </h2>



Inside every living thing, from a mushroom to a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-whale-species-is-already-threatened-with-extinction/">whale</a>, there’s DNA - the instruction manual of life. That DNA is packaged into structures called chromosomes. Humans have 23 pairs, and most butterflies have 23 or 24 pairs.



The Atlas blue butterfly carries 229 pairs of chromosomes - more than any other multicellular animal. Scientists had long suspected it held the record, and new genome sequencing has now confirmed it.



And here’s what’s even more surprising: the butterfly's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-analysis-can-predict-which-animals-are-at-risk-of-extinction/">DNA</a> hasn’t been duplicated. Instead, the chromosomes have been chopped up into smaller pieces - like taking 24 books and ripping them into 229 booklets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-peek-into-evolution-s-toolbox">A peek into evolution’s toolbox</h2>



The researchers behind the new study came from the <a href="https://www.sanger.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wellcome Sanger Institute</a> in the UK and the Institute of Evolutionary Biology in Barcelona. They produced the first-ever high-quality genome for the Atlas blue and discovered that its extra chromosomes were not caused by copying, but by splitting.



This process happened fast in evolutionary terms. In about three million years, the butterfly went from 24 to 229 chromosomes. That’s like a blink of an eye for species development.



The cuts happened in parts of the DNA that were loosely packed. That means the total genetic information didn’t really change, it was just reorganized. All of the chromosomes, except for sex chromosomes, were broken up.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-rapidly-evolving-butterfly">A rapidly evolving butterfly </h2>



Changes in chromosome number are one way that species evolve. They can affect how genes are turned on or off, how traits are passed down, and how well an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genomics-can-help-farm-animals-adapt-to-climate-change/">animal adapts</a> to its environment. The Atlas blue butterfly belongs to a group that evolved rapidly, creating lots of closely related species.



This new research helps explain how that might have happened. The split chromosomes may have allowed more mixing and matching of DNA, possibly helping the species survive in tough environments.



But that same complexity could also come with risks. Too many chromosomes might make a species more vulnerable over time. And unfortunately, the Atlas blue is already in trouble. Climate change, overgrazing, and destruction of cedar forests are putting pressure on its populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-butterfly-chromosomes-and-cancer">Butterfly chromosomes and cancer</h2>



The implications go far beyond butterflies. Professor Mark Blaxter noted that genomes hold the key to how a creature came to be, but also, where it might go in the future.



“To be able to tell the story of our planet, we must have the story of each species and see where they overlap and interact with each other. It also allows us to apply learnings from one genome to another."



"For example, rearranging <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-chromosomes-have-conserved-specific-elements-for-600-million-years/">chromosomes</a> is also seen in human cancer cells, and understanding this process in the Atlas blue butterfly could help find ways to limit or stop this in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-scientist-discovers-that-common-non-cancer-drugs-when-combined-can-kill-cancer-cells/">cancer cells</a> in the future.”



That might seem like a stretch - a tiny insect helping us battle a major disease - but it’s happened before. From bacteria to mice and worms, scientists have used all kinds of living things to understand human health. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-extreme-atlas-blue-butterfly">The extreme Atlas blue butterfly</h2>



There are still big questions to answer. What benefits, if any, come from having so many chromosomes? Are there specific genes that make this butterfly more adaptable? Could this give clues about how life responds to a changing planet?



“When we set out to start to understand <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unraveling-the-story-of-early-animal-evolution/">evolution</a> in butterflies, we knew we had to sequence the most extreme, and somewhat mysterious, Atlas blue butterfly,” said Dr. Charlotte Wright, first author of the study. 



She noted that it was thanks to Dr. Roger Vila, who had previously worked with his colleague to find and identify this elusive butterfly, that the team was able to sequence this species.



"Being able to see, in detail, how the Atlas blue butterfly chromosomes have been split over time in specific places, we can start to investigate what benefits this might have, how it impacts their ability to adapt to their environment, and whether there are any lessons we can learn from their DNA that might aid conservation in the future.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-species-evolution">Understanding species evolution</h2>



This kind of research is just the beginning. The team now has a “gold-standard” genome to compare with other butterflies and moths, opening the door to understanding more about how species split, adapt, or vanish.



“Breaking down chromosomes has been seen in other species of butterflies, but not on this level, suggesting that there are important reasons for this process which we can now start to explore," said Dr. Vila, senior author of the study. 



"Additionally, as chromosomes hold all the secrets of a species, investigating whether these changes impact a butterfly’s behavior could help form a full picture of how and why new species occur."



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(25)01098-X?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS096098222501098X%3Fshowall%3Dtrue">Current Biology</a>.



Image Credit: Roger Vila



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Butterfly sets an astonishing  chromosome record

In the wild mountain ranges of Morocco and northeast Algeria, there’s a small, shimmering butterfly that most people have never heard of. It flutters through cedar forests and scrubby hillsides, unnoticed by nearly everyone. But deep inside its cells, this insect is doing something no other animal has ever been seen to do. This butterfly, called the Atlas blue, just set a world record. And scientists are paying attention - not just because it’s rare, but because its strange biology could help us understand one of the...

After suffering a career-ending injury, Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Gretchen Evans was confronted with severe challenges. Service <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-detect-human-stress-levels-sniffing-breath-compounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a>, starting with Aura, a black Labrador Retriever, played a pivotal role in her transition.



She was fraught with loneliness and depression when she tried to adapt to life with disabilities, including near-total hearing loss and PTSD.



Later, Rusty -- a golden retriever and black lab mix service <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-detect-scents-better-than-the-most-advanced-lab-tools/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dog</a> -- joined her, further enhancing her safety and social interactions.



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/despite-strong-bonds-pet-ownership-may-not-improve-severe-mental-illness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">companion animals</a> not only provided companionship but also transformed her daily life, offering a poignant example of how these dogs can significantly aid veterans facing similar struggles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-service-dogs-reduce-loneliness">Service dogs reduce loneliness</h2>



Personal stories like that of Evans have long suggested the benefits of assistance dogs, but rigorous scientific evidence was sparse. 



A recent study conducted by Sarah Leighton at the <a href="https://vetmed.arizona.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine</a> has started to fill this research gap.



The findings revealed that veterans paired with service dogs reported significantly lower PTSD symptoms, anxiety, and depression, while experiencing enhanced quality of life and reduced feelings of isolation, compared to those without such assistance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-service-dog-adoption">Challenges in service dog adoption</h2>



Despite these positive outcomes, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/assistance-dogs-improve-mental-health-of-veterans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">veterans</a> encounter several barriers when accessing service dogs.



Limited funding for service dog nonprofits, lack of insurance coverage, and legislative gaps hinder the widespread adoption of this intervention. 



Leighton pointed out the critical need for complementary interventions that can enhance traditional treatments for PTSD, which could lead to significant improvements in veterans' healthcare outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pawsitive-healing">'Pawsitive' healing</h2>



To deepen understanding of how assistance dogs can impact <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychedelic-drug-mdma-shows-promise-for-reducing-post-traumatic-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PTSD</a> treatment, Maggie O'Haire and her team from the OHAIRE research group, alongside experts from various fields within the University of Arizona, have secured funding for a comprehensive clinical trial.



This study aims to assess how assistance dogs might enhance the effectiveness of prolonged exposure therapy, a recognized treatment for PTSD.



The goal is to alleviate the treatment's challenges, improve patient adherence, and ultimately, enhance therapeutic outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-service-dogs-in-ptsd-treatment">Future of service dogs in PTSD treatment</h2>



The preliminary results are promising, but the research team stresses the need for further studies to optimize the integration of service dogs into therapeutic settings. 



The upcoming trial represents a significant step towards harnessing the potential of service dogs to improve the lives of veterans. 



Such research not only seeks to refine treatment approaches but also aims to explore the depth of the human-animal bond within therapeutic contexts. 



As veterans like Evans have shown, the benefits of service dog partnerships extend beyond managing symptoms -- they enrich lives, providing both emotional support and a renewed sense of purpose.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-benefits-of-service-dogs">Other benefits of service dogs</h2>



Service dogs can help veterans in various ways beyond the research findings:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-assistance">Physical assistance</h3>



Service dogs can be trained to perform a variety of physical tasks that aid veterans with disabilities. For instance, they can retrieve dropped items, open and close doors, turn on and off lights, and even assist with dressing or undressing. This support helps veterans maintain independence and reduces the need for human assistance in daily activities.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seizure-alerts">Seizure alerts</h3>



Some service dogs can be trained to detect subtle changes in their handler's behavior or scent that indicate an oncoming seizure. These dogs can alert the veteran beforehand, allowing them to move to a safe location or take medication to prevent or lessen the severity of the seizure. This can be life-saving and provides a sense of security.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nightmare-interruption">Nightmare interruption</h3>



Veterans with PTSD often suffer from nightmares that disrupt their sleep and cause severe distress. Service dogs can be trained to recognize the signs of a nightmare, such as thrashing or vocalizing in sleep. They can gently wake the veteran, providing comfort and grounding, which helps reduce the frequency and severity of nightmares.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mobility-support">Mobility support</h3>



For veterans with mobility impairments, service dogs can provide crucial support. They can help with balance while walking, pull wheelchairs, or assist in getting up from a seated position. This mobility support enables veterans to move around more safely and confidently, enhancing their overall quality of life.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-interaction">Social interaction</h3>



Service dogs often act as social bridges, facilitating interactions between veterans and other people. The presence of a service dog can attract positive attention and initiate conversations, helping veterans feel more comfortable in social settings. This reduces feelings of isolation and encourages social engagement.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-reduction">Stress reduction</h3>



The presence of a service dog has been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Physical contact, such as petting or hugging the dog, can lower cortisol levels and increase the production of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and stress relief. This helps veterans manage anxiety and maintain a calmer state of mind.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotional-support">Emotional support</h3>



The dogs offer unconditional love and companionship, which can be profoundly comforting for veterans dealing with emotional challenges. The bond between a veteran and their service dog provides constant emotional support, helping them cope with feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2819452" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA</a>.



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Service dogs reduce anxiety and depression in veterans

After suffering a career-ending injury, Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Gretchen...

Approximately 50,000 years ago, North America was a realm dominated by megafauna, teeming with an array of colossal creatures. Mammoths traversed the tundra, while mastodons dominated the woodlands.



The landscape also hosted fierce saber-toothed tigers, massive wolves, towering camels, and hefty bison that roamed in herds. 



Giant beavers navigated the region's waterways and immense ground sloths, each weighing over a ton, thrived east of the Rocky Mountains.



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



As the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-age-data-analysis-reshapes-climate-future-lowers-warming-estimates/">Last Ice Age</a> drew to a close, these monumental animals began to vanish, leaving a puzzle that has intrigued scientists for decades. The reasons behind their disappearance are still debated.



Some scholars suggest that human arrival played a crucial role in the disappearance of megafauna through hunting, habitat alteration, or competition for resources. Others argue that rapid climate shifts following the ice age overwhelmed the adaptive capabilities of these fascinating creatures.



The debate between these two perspectives has been both fierce and enduring. Over time, numerous theories have emerged, including disease, a catastrophic comet impact, or a combination of various factors contributing to the extinction of megafauna.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-piecing-together-the-past">Piecing together the past</h2>



One major obstacle in solving this mystery has been the condition of the bones left behind. While many sites have preserved these remains well, the bones at other sites have suffered from exposure, abrasion, and biomolecular decay - leaving them fragmented and difficult to identify.



This has significantly hindered our understanding of where these animals lived, when they disappeared, and how they interacted with changing environments and human populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-approach-to-study-old-bones">A new approach to study old bones</h2>



In a breakthrough study, researchers have turned to exceptional fossil collections housed at the <a href="https://naturalhistory.si.edu/">Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History</a>.



This institution holds a vast array of bones unearthed from numerous archaeological digs conducted over the last century, providing a rich resource for understanding the fate of North America's megafauna.



"Museum legacy collections, often derived from large-scale archaeological excavations, can serve as paleoenvironmental archives of Late Pleistocene megafaunal composition and dynamics," wrote the study authors. 



"Many of these collections, however, contain large quantities of highly fragmented and morphologically indistinct bones that cannot be identified to a specific taxon and are therefore of limited use to paleoenvironmental and archaeological analyses."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extracting-collagen-from-bones">Extracting collagen from bones</h2>



To overcome the challenges posed by fragmented bones, scientists are employing a cutting-edge technique known as Zooarchaeology by Mass Spectrometry, or ZooMS. This method utilizes the durable nature of bone collagen, a protein that can persist for millennia.



The unique sequences of collagen vary slightly among different animal groups and species, acting like a molecular barcode that helps identify otherwise unrecognizable bone fragments.



The process involves extracting tiny collagen segments from these bones, which are then analyzed using a mass spectrometer. This technology allows for the precise identification of the species the bone fragments belong to, a task that traditional archaeological methods could not achieve.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-megafauna-extinction">Exploring megafauna extinction</h2>



The ZooMS approach is reshaping how archaeologists study ancient remains. Instead of solely relying on new excavations, researchers are revisiting existing collections with these sophisticated techniques, uncovering details that were previously inaccessible.



As this method continues to be refined and applied, it holds the promise of finally unlocking the secrets of the disappearance of megafauna.



By understanding what happened to these magnificent creatures, scientists can gain deeper insights into the historical interactions between humans and their environment, as well as the impacts of climate change on biodiversity.



The ongoing research not only sheds light on the past but also enhances our understanding of present and future ecological challenges. The mystery of North America's lost megafauna is slowly but surely being unraveled, thanks to the convergence of archaeological tradition and modern scientific innovation.



"Archaeological collections of megafauna exist in repositories around the world. Higher resolution investigation of these collections using novel biomolecular tools like ZooMS will foster new insights into local and regional links between climate, environment, human behavior and megafaunal composition, offering new perspectives on the timing and extent of past biodiversity change and the causes and consequences of megafaunal extinction," concluded the study authors. 



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmamm.2024.1399358/full">Frontiers in Mammal Science</a>.



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Tracing the disappearance of North America's megafauna

Approximately 50,000 years ago, North America was a realm dominated...

Ants are everywhere – in our backyards,&nbsp;our kitchens,&nbsp;and even our picnics.&nbsp;But have you ever wondered how these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/desert-ants-use-earths-magnetic-field-for-navigation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tiny creatures</a> determine their sex?&nbsp;It's not as simple as you might think.



A recent discovery by scientists in Mainz and Lausanne has unveiled a fascinating new piece of this puzzle,&nbsp;and it involves a rather unexpected player:&nbsp;a "noncoding" gene.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-path-to-ant-sex-determination">Different path to ant sex determination</h2>



In humans,&nbsp;biological sex is determined by the inheritance of specific sex chromosomes.&nbsp;



Individuals with two X chromosomes typically develop as females,&nbsp;while those with one X and one Y chromosome typically develop as males. This system of sex determination relies on the presence or absence of the Y chromosome.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-genetic-basis-of-butterfly-sex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Insects</a> like ants, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/squash-bees-ability-withstand-heat-varies-size-sex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a>, and wasps employ a distinct mechanism for sex determination called haplodiploidy. 



In this system, rather than sex chromosomes, the number of chromosome sets an individual possesses determines their sex. 



Males develop from unfertilized eggs and therefore inherit only one set of chromosomes from their mother (haploid). 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ant-queen-behavior-changes-based-on-social-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Females</a>, on the other hand, develop from fertilized eggs and inherit two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent (diploid).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-molecular-processes-involved">Molecular processes involved</h2>



While the basic principle of haplodiploidy is understood,&nbsp;scientists have long been interested in uncovering the specific molecular processes that trigger the development of a male or female organism from a haploid or diploid egg.&nbsp;



To investigate this further,&nbsp;researchers turned their attention to an unusual phenomenon observed in Argentine ants:&nbsp;the occurrence of diploid males.&nbsp;These males,&nbsp;typically infertile,&nbsp;arise from fertilized eggs due to a genetic anomaly.&nbsp;



By studying these diploid males,&nbsp;scientists hoped to gain insights into the underlying genetic mechanisms responsible for sex determination in these insects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-oddity-that-cracked-the-code">Genetic oddity that cracked the code</h2>



"This allowed us to compare the two sets of chromosomes present in females and diploid males,&nbsp;which differ from their haploid counterparts that possess only one set of chromosomes," explains Dr.&nbsp;Qiaowei Pan,&nbsp;a scientist at the Institute of Molecular Biology (<a href="https://www.imb.de" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IMB</a>) in Mainz and the <a href="https://www.unil.ch/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Lausanne</a>.



By analyzing the genetic makeup of these ants,&nbsp;the researchers found a striking difference in a small region of the genome.&nbsp;



"We were able to identify seven differing versions in a 5,000 base pair region of the genome," says Dr.&nbsp;Pan.&nbsp;"All the females had two different versions of this region while all the diploid males had the same alleles twice.&nbsp;Thus,&nbsp;this genomic location is fundamental to determining sex in this ant."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-hero-in-ant-sex-determinism">Unexpected hero in ant sex determinism</h2>



This discovery was groundbreaking, but what really surprised the scientists was the nature of this sex-determining region. 



Unlike a similar finding in honeybees, where a protein-coding gene is responsible, the researchers found something completely different in ants.



"To our surprise,&nbsp;we found that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-corals-have-sex-new-secrets-of-spawning-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sex</a>-determining gene site in ants does not encode a protein," says Dr.&nbsp;Pan.&nbsp;"In other words,&nbsp;it does not contain the information required to make a protein.&nbsp;This is called a noncoding RNA gene."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rna-s-starring-role">RNA's starring role</h2>



Noncoding RNA genes produce RNA molecules that don't translate into proteins,&nbsp;yet they play crucial roles in many biological processes.&nbsp;In this case,&nbsp;the amount of RNA produced from this noncoding gene seems to be the key.



"The level of RNA expression of this gene is higher in females who carry two versions of the sex-determining region than it is in diploid males with two identical copies of the region," explains Dr.&nbsp;Pan.&nbsp;



When the researchers experimentally switched off this gene in female embryos,&nbsp;they developed into males,&nbsp;confirming its pivotal role.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solving-the-puzzle">Solving the puzzle</h2>



Although the identification of a noncoding RNA gene responsible for sex determination in Argentine ants is a significant breakthrough,&nbsp;it raises further questions that require investigation.&nbsp;



Researchers are keen to understand why the presence of two different versions (alleles) of this gene results in increased RNA expression compared to when two identical alleles are present.&nbsp;This could involve complex regulatory mechanisms at the genetic or epigenetic level.



Additionally,&nbsp;the precise molecular pathways through which this RNA molecule influences the development of male or female traits remain unclear.&nbsp;



It is possible that this RNA interacts with other genes or proteins, initiating cascades of events that ultimately lead to the differentiation of sexual characteristics. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ant-sex-determinism-needs-more-research">Ant sex determinism needs more research</h2>



In summary, understanding these mechanisms would provide valuable insights into the intricate processes governing sex determination and development in ants.



The quest to answer these questions continues, highlighting the vastness of the natural world and the complexity of its biological processes. 



This discovery serves as a reminder that even seemingly simple organisms like ants possess intricate genetic mechanisms that are far from fully understood.



So, the next time you encounter an ant, consider that its sex isn't determined by a simple genetic switch like the X and Y <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-chromosomes-have-conserved-specific-elements-for-600-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chromosomes</a> in humans. 



Instead, it is orchestrated by a noncoding RNA gene that acts as a conductor, directing a complex symphony of genetic activity. 



This intricate pattern of gene expression ensures the proper balance of males and females within the colony,&nbsp;ultimately contributing to the survival and propagation of the species.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adp1532" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Determining the sex of ants is no easy task

Ants are everywhere – in our backyards,&nbsp;our kitchens,&nbsp;and even our...

The recent discovery of opalized jaw fossils in New South Wales' Lightning Ridge has significantly advanced our understanding of prehistoric monotremes. 



These fossils, dating back to the Cenomanian Age of the Cretaceous Period, between 102 million to 96.6 million years ago, represent a crucial era in Australia's ecological history. This was a time when the continent teemed with a variety of these unique <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bizarre-egg-laying-mammal-rediscovered-in-the-cyclops-mountains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">egg-laying mammals</a>. Today, only the platypus and echidna remain as the surviving descendants.



The study was led by a team of Australian scientists at the <a href="https://australian.museum/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian Museum</a> (AM), <a href="https://museumsvictoria.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Museums Victoria</a> and <a href="https://www.australianopalcentre.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian Opal Centre</a>. The research provides new insights into an epoch where Australia's landscape was dominated by diverse monotreme species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discoveries-from-a-lost-era">Discoveries from a lost era</h2>



Professor Tim Flannery, a key figure in this discovery, reflects on the significance of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feredocodon-chowi-fossils-yield-clues-mammal-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossils</a>: "Discovering these new fossils is like uncovering a whole new civilization. Australia is known for its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-rarest-marsupial-was-unwittingly-saved-by-prince-philip/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marsupials</a> today, but these findings hint at a former era dominated by diverse monotremes."



Professor Kris Helgen, Chief Scientist and Director of the Australian Museum Research Institute (AMRI), also played a pivotal role in analyzing the fossils.



Professor Helgen described Opalios splendens, a standout among the newly discovered species. This creature seems to serve as a bridge in evolutionary history, combining features of both the platypus and echidna.



"Opalios splendens sits on a place in the evolutionary tree prior to the common ancestor of today’s monotremes. Its anatomy suggests a blend of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-dams-are-significant-barriers-to-platypus-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">platypus</a> and echidna traits," explained Professor Helgen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-insights-into-monotremes">Evolutionary insights into monotremes</h2>



The evolutionary journey from "toothy to toothless" is a central theme in the study of these ancient creatures.



"Some of the earlier monotremes retained up to five molars, whereas later species reduced to three. This evolutionary change is evident in our findings at Lightning Ridge," noted Professor Helgen.



Professor Flannery further elaborated on this topic by pointing out the modern-day dental characteristics of monotremes. "Echidnas are toothless, and adult platypuses only possess leathery pads instead of teeth, adaptations likely influenced by dietary changes and competition with newcomers like the Australian water rat."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-monumental-gathering-of-species">A monumental gathering of species</h2>



The diversity uncovered at Lightning Ridge is unprecedented. "The site has revealed six different species of monotremes, suggesting it was once the most diverse monotreme habitat known to science. This discovery significantly expands our understanding of their diversity," noted Dr. Matthew McCurry, Curator of Palaeontology at AMRI.



These insights are complemented by the efforts of researchers like Dr. Thomas Rich and Professor Patricia Vickers-Rich, who highlighted the ongoing excitement in paleontological studies as fieldwork continues to unveil new facets of ancient life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-rarity-of-opalized-fossils">The rarity of opalized fossils</h2>



The significance of these opalized fossils is not lost on those who discovered them. Elizabeth Smith, associated with the Australian Opal Centre, expressed awe at the rarity and value of these finds. 



"Finding opalized monotreme fossils is exceptionally rare. Each discovery offers a precious glimpse into a world where these ancient, furry egg-layers thrived," said Smith. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monotremes-and-australia-s-geological-saga">Monotremes and Australia's geological saga</h2>



The findings at Lightning Ridge offer more than just a snapshot of ancient life; they provide a portal into the evolutionary lineage of Australia's unique fauna. 



As researchers continue to piece together the complex puzzle of Earth's biological history, each fossil serves as a testament to the dynamic changes that have shaped the natural world. 



This ongoing journey into the past not only enriches our understanding of biological diversity but also highlights the enduring impact of Australia's geological and ecological heritage.



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



Monotremes are a unique group of mammals that are distinct from other mammals because they lay eggs rather than giving birth to live young. This group includes intriguing species like the platypus and the echidnas, which are found primarily in Australia and New Guinea.&nbsp;



Monotremes are characterized by a mix of reptilian and mammalian features, which makes them especially interesting in studies of evolutionary biology. For example, they maintain a lower body temperature compared to other mammals and possess a cloaca, an organ common to birds and reptiles but unusual in mammals.



Another distinctive trait is their method of feeding their young; monotremes do not have nipples, instead, they secrete milk through specialized glands in their skin, which the young lap up.&nbsp;



The platypus, with its duck-bill and webbed feet, is particularly famous for its unusual appearance and the male's ability to deliver a venomous sting, a rare trait among mammals.&nbsp;



Meanwhile, echidnas are known for their spiny coats and snouty faces, used to feed primarily on ants and termites. These fascinating features highlight the evolutionary diversity and adaptability of mammals.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/03115518.2024.2348753" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alcheringa: An Australasian Journal of Palaeontology</a>.



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Unearthing the lost world of unique mammals in Australia

The recent discovery of opalized jaw fossils in New South...

Biodiversity loss is akin to a sinking ark, and the crew seems to be losing track of the lifeboats. This alarming metaphor illustrates the findings of a recent study, painting a picture of neglect and insufficient action toward countless threatened and endangered species worldwide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-threatened-species">What are threatened species?</h2>



Threatened species are <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/why-are-birds-endangered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a>, plants, or other organisms at risk of becoming endangered or extinct. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (<a href="https://iucn.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IUCN</a>) classifies species as threatened based on their population size, rate of decline, geographic range, and other factors. This category includes species labeled as vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered.



The biggest threats to plants and animals include <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-is-tracking-endangered-animal-habitats-from-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat</a> loss, climate change, over-exploitation, pollution, and the introduction of invasive species. Human activities, such as deforestation, urbanization, and hunting, significantly contribute to these threats.



The loss of these species can disrupt ecosystems, leading to negative impacts on biodiversity and the health of the environment. 



Conservation efforts aim to protect threatened species through habitat <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/the-12-endangered-birds-most-at-risk-of-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preservation</a>, legal protection, and restoration projects. These efforts strive to ensure the survival of threatened species and to maintain the stability of their ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-crisis-unfolding">A crisis unfolding</h2>



Earth's biodiversity is rapidly declining, with thousands of species facing the imminent threat of extinction. This crisis is primarily driven by human activities, including the destruction of natural habitats and unsustainable harvesting of resources.



Despite the urgency of this situation,&nbsp;recent research has revealed a significant gap in conservation efforts.&nbsp;Many species at risk lack sufficient protection and targeted interventions to address the specific threats they face,&nbsp;leaving them vulnerable to further decline and potential extinction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-troubling-disparities-among-threatened-species">Troubling disparities among threatened species</h2>



The study's findings are a wake-up call,&nbsp;revealing a stark mismatch between the magnitude of the biodiversity crisis and the actions being taken to combat it.&nbsp;



"Conservation can and does work, but only if we try," said Dr. Rebecca Senior, lead author of the study from <a href="https://www.durham.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Durham University</a>. "Our findings are so concerning because they highlight that we’re not really trying for most of the species at the greatest risk of extinction."



The researchers examined data on nearly 6,000 threatened terrestrial species,&nbsp;assessing the extent to which they benefit from conservation measures such as habitat protection,&nbsp;regulations on wildlife trade,&nbsp;and invasive species control.&nbsp;The results are sobering:



<ul>
<li>Only 9% of species threatened by habitat loss have sufficient portions of their habitat within protected areas.</li>



<li>A mere 24% of species threatened by invasive alien species like rats,&nbsp;cats,&nbsp;and fungal diseases are receiving documented control efforts.</li>



<li>Certain groups,&nbsp;like birds,&nbsp;receive far more conservation attention than others,&nbsp;such as amphibians and plants.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-sinking-ark">A sinking ark</h2>



The implications of this research extend far beyond statistical data.&nbsp;The findings represent a tangible crisis for numerous plant and animal species,&nbsp;whose very existence is threatened by habitat destruction,&nbsp;illegal trade,&nbsp;and the spread of invasive species.&nbsp;



Despite the gravity of these threats,&nbsp;current conservation efforts are falling short,&nbsp;leaving these species vulnerable and at risk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/why-are-some-endangered-amphibians-going-extinct/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinction</a>.&nbsp;



The lack of adequate protection and targeted interventions underscores the urgent need for increased and more effective conservation actions to safeguard the future of these species.



"We’re talking about a sinking ark where there aren’t enough lifeboats on board and the crew isn’t even sure where those lifeboats are located," said study co-author Professor David Wilcove of <a href="https://www.princeton.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Princeton University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hope-on-the-horizon">Hope on the horizon?</h2>



The research did reveal some encouraging findings.&nbsp;Species that were reclassified to lower threat levels on the IUCN Red List between 2006 and 2020 showed a higher likelihood of having documented conservation efforts in place.&nbsp;



This suggests that targeted and well-implemented conservation actions can positively impact the status of vulnerable species. However,&nbsp;the research also highlighted a concerning trend.&nbsp;



Most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/endangered-lemurs-now-prey-for-equally-endangered-fosas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> that were moved to higher threat levels on the IUCN Red List had also been subject to some form of conservation action.&nbsp;



This indicates that existing efforts are often insufficient to adequately address the threats these species face,&nbsp;underscoring the need for greater resources and more effective conservation strategies.



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



The researchers emphasize that&nbsp;"conservation can and does prevent extinctions,"&nbsp;but their findings underscore the urgency of the situation.&nbsp;We are on a trajectory towards catastrophic biodiversity loss if we fail to ramp up our conservation efforts.



The study calls for immediate action,&nbsp;urging governments and environmental organizations to address these gaps in conservation attention before it's too late.



The researchers also emphasize the need for strategic and well-funded conservation programs,&nbsp;particularly in biodiversity-rich developing nations,&nbsp;to meet the goals of the <a href="https://www.cbd.int/gbf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework</a>.



The world's threatened <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/endangered-wild-species-find-forbidden-love-domestic-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> are not just statistics; they are living creatures that contribute to the intricate web of life on Earth.&nbsp;



The new study serves as a stark reminder that we must prioritize their conservation if we want to avoid a future where our planet's ark sinks beneath the waves,&nbsp;taking countless species with it.&nbsp;The time for action is now.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07498-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Are we failing the world's most threatened species?

Biodiversity loss is akin to a sinking ark, and the crew...

A recent study published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.14671" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Applied Ecology</a> has found that the removal of hedgerows and field margins covered by wild grass and flowers significantly reduces the diversity and abundance of arthropods in agricultural landscapes. 



Researchers from the UK, Netherlands, and China conducted a six-year study on 20 rice fields in China, examining how these landscape changes impact <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rice-farming-environmental-impact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rice</a> pests and their natural enemies, as well as rice yield.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-field-margins-nbsp">Natural field margins&nbsp;</h2>



Traditional Chinese smallholder fields are irregularly shaped and separated by areas of hedgerows, wild grass, and flowers. These features make using large-scale machinery difficult, resulting in low agricultural operation efficiency.&nbsp;



Consequently, many traditional farmlands in China are being consolidated to improve efficiency. However, these grassy margins and flowering vegetation provide crucial habitats for natural enemies of rice pests, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spiders-turn-to-cannibalism-when-food-sources-are-limited/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiders</a> and ground beetles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-frequent-removal-of-field-margins-nbsp">Frequent removal of field margins&nbsp;</h2>



“Hedgerows and field margins are frequently removed during the land consolidation procedure to create larger, rectangular fields and install concrete irrigation channels to facilitate the use of larger machinery. Our study suggests that removing these habitats negatively affects arthropod communities,” said senior author Yi Zou, an expert in landscape ecology and biodiversity conservation at the <a href="https://www.xjtlu.edu.cn/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University</a> (XJTLU).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greater-diversity-in-traditional-farmland">Greater diversity in traditional farmland</h2>



The researchers collected 141,587 individual arthropods from 80 taxonomic families, discovering that traditional farmland supported significantly higher abundance and diversity of rice pests' natural enemies compared to consolidated land.&nbsp;



Interestingly, there were no significant differences in the number of rice pests or rice yield between traditional and consolidated fields.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-land-consolidation-and-rice-arthropods-nbsp">Land consolidation and rice arthropods&nbsp;</h2>



“Land consolidation removes the natural vegetation of traditional farmlands that can provide nesting habitats and food sources for the natural enemies of rice pests. But there is a lot we still don't know, such as how land consolidation affects different groups of rice arthropods. Long-term monitoring and detailed assessment of land consolidation is still needed,” Zou explained.



The research group also experimented with insecticide application on half of each field, finding that it decreased the diversity and abundance of pests and natural enemies in both field types. However, fields not sprayed with insecticide experienced a 10.8% decrease in rice yield.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-field-margins-to-increase-farmland-biodiversity-nbsp">Using field margins to increase farmland biodiversity&nbsp;</h2>



The study supports agri-environmental measures (AEM) like using flowering plants in field margins to increase <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/farmland-biodiversity-pest-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">farmland biodiversity</a> and mitigate the negative impacts of land consolidation. While widely implemented in Europe, AEMs are rarely used in China.



“Our agricultural biodiversity monitoring in this study serves as a critical tool for assessing the impacts of land consolidation and the effectiveness of AEM on biodiversity. These measurements are needed before proposing land management recommendations for an appropriate AEM,” Zou said.&nbsp;



“As a result of our findings, we recommend the implementation of AEM or re-establishing field margin vegetation during the consolidation process to mitigate the potential negative effects on rice arthropod biodiversity.”



“This study is noteworthy because of the quality of its data and the breadth of influential factors we were able to investigate. It has been really interesting to disentangle the effects of farmland consolidation, of pesticide application, and of seminatural habitat beyond the farm,” added co-author Jenny Hodgson, a conservation biologist at the <a href="https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Liverpool</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-is-needed">Further research is needed</h2>



Dr. Shanxing Gong, the study's lead author and a postdoctoral researcher at <a href="https://english.pku.edu.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Peking University</a>, acknowledges that biodiversity is not the only concern for farmers. 



“The trade-off between biodiversity improvements with labor efficiency, yield, and pest control is a balance that has to be finely tuned to ensure maximum profitability, and these factors will always need to be considered,” said Dr. Gong.



“While we did not observe a direct correlation between the increase in the number of rice pests and the reduction of their natural enemies due to land consolidation, further investigation into the effectiveness of natural enemies in biological pest control is necessary before implementing AEM strategies.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-long-term-impacts-of-land-consolidation-nbsp">Understanding the long-term impacts of land consolidation&nbsp;</h2>



Furthermore, the researchers found no decrease in rice yield in traditional fields compared to consolidated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-yield-farming-could-preserve-wildlife-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">farmland</a>. 



“The impact of AEMs on yield depends on many factors, including agricultural management intensity, soil fertility, and pesticide application, that all need to be taken into account when assessing their suitability for land management,” added Dr. Gong.



This study highlights the need for continued research and monitoring to understand better the long-term impacts of land consolidation and the potential benefits of agri-environmental measures in maintaining arthropod biodiversity and sustainable agricultural practices.



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Removal of field margins reduces farmland biodiversity

A recent study published in the Journal of Applied Ecology...

Recent research conducted by the Department of Ethology at <a href="https://www.elte.hu/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eötvös Loránd University</a> (ELTE) has revealed that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-dogs-have-exceptional-learning-capacities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs' learning success</a> improves significantly when they are rewarded with food, praise, and petting. 



Published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-60166-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Scientific Reports</a>, this study delves into the relationship between emotions, learning, and sleep in dogs. The findings indicate that incorporating social reinforcement such as praise and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/petting-a-dog-even-when-its-not-your-own-can-boost-your-health-for-months/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">petting</a> can enhance dogs' performance in learning tasks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotionally-charged-learning-in-dogs">Emotionally charged learning in dogs</h2>



Earlier research had established that emotionally charged events are better remembered, but these studies were primarily conducted in controlled laboratory settings.&nbsp;



This new research aimed to explore this phenomenon in real-life scenarios involving family dogs learning from their owners or dog trainers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-how-family-dogs-learn">Studying how family dogs learn</h2>



“It is natural and ordinary for family dogs to learn in emotionally charged social situations, either from their owners or from dog trainers. However, our knowledge of this phenomenon so far is mainly based on studies in humans and laboratory rodents (rats, mice),” said study lead author Viviene Reicher, an ethologist at ELTE.



“Our aim was to study the phenomenon in dogs, as it is not only exciting to research the species as a model animal, but also in its own right.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-styles-of-training-nbsp">Different styles of training&nbsp;</h2>



The scientists developed a novel methodology wherein dog trainers taught new command words for familiar tricks in the presence of the dogs' owners.&nbsp;



For instance, trainers used the English command “High five” instead of the Hungarian “Pacsi.” Each dog underwent two types of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-training-is-more-effective-when-nice-voice-tone-is-used/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">training</a> sessions: a “permissive” style with praise and petting in addition to treats, and a “controlling” style with only treats and scolding for unwanted behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-the-dogs-learning-success-nbsp">Measuring the dogs’ learning success&nbsp;</h2>



After the training sessions, the dogs' learning success was tested before and after <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-have-sleep-apnea-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a> in a sleep lab, with EEG scans analyzing brain function related to memory consolidation. 



The study found that the controlling style of training induced greater stress in the dogs, leading them to seek proximity to their owners and sleep more after training. This aligns with previous research indicating that sleep plays a crucial role in processing emotions.



Interestingly, the study revealed that learning success was more pronounced the first time regardless of training style, likely due to the well-documented phenomenon that information learned first is easier to remember.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-importance-of-social-reinforcement-nbsp">The importance of social reinforcement&nbsp;</h2>



However, the most exciting result was observed when dogs initially exposed to controlling training were later trained in a permissive style. The combination of positive surprise and sleep significantly improved their learning success.



Dr. Márta Gácsi, senior research fellow, highlighted the importance of social reinforcement in dogs' well-being and learning. The lack of social reinforcement or the presence of scolding can cause stress, particularly when dogs are being taught by a trainer, which should be considered when selecting teaching methods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tangible-rewards-and-emotional-support-nbsp">Tangible rewards and emotional support&nbsp;</h2>



This study not only provides a deeper understanding of dog learning but also offers insights into human learning processes. It underscores the importance of rewarding dogs with both food and social reinforcement, further supporting the view that these practices positively impact dogs' well-being and learning success.&nbsp;



The findings are valuable for dog owners and trainers, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to training that includes both tangible rewards and emotional support.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-capacity-of-dogs-nbsp">Learning capacity of dogs&nbsp;</h2>



Dogs have an amazing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/typical-american-dog-knows-18-words-and-love-is-at-the-top-of-the-list/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">capacity to learn</a> through various intriguing methods. One interesting aspect is their ability to understand human gestures and vocal tones almost as naturally as they understand the body language of other dogs. This ability makes them exceptional companions and highly trainable.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-associative-learning">Associative learning</h3>



Dogs also learn through associative learning, where they connect a specific stimulus with a particular outcome. For instance, they quickly learn that the sound of a leash can lead to a walk, or that the rustle of a treat bag means a snack is coming.&nbsp;



This form of learning is why dogs can respond to cues like dinner bells or doorbells with such enthusiasm or anticipation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-learning-nbsp">Social learning&nbsp;</h3>



Dogs are also capable of social learning. They can observe and imitate the behaviors of other dogs and even humans, learning complex actions without direct training.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dog-breed">Dog breed</h3>



Dogs' learning abilities are influenced by their breed as well. Some breeds, like Border Collies, are renowned for their problem-solving skills and quick learning, making them excellent at tasks that require intelligence and agility. In contrast, breeds like Greyhounds might excel in tasks that involve speed and visual cues.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-emotions">Human emotions</h3>



Moreover, dogs can read human emotions quite well, which affects how they learn from us. They are more likely to learn in a positive, supportive atmosphere where they feel safe.&nbsp;



Stress, fear, or anxiety can hinder their learning processes, demonstrating how sensitive they are to our emotional states.



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Dogs learn better with praise and petting

Recent research conducted by the Department of Ethology at Eötvös...

The ocean can be a turbulent place, especially for small fish trying to navigate strong currents. However, new research suggests that fish have developed an ingenious solution to this problem: swimming in schools. 



Scientists have long been fascinated by the complex and coordinated movements of fish schools, but the reasons behind this behavior have remained somewhat of a mystery. 



A new study reveals that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-three-fish-make-a-school-study-offers-surprising-insights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">schooling fish</a> expend significantly less energy when swimming in turbulent water compared to their solitary counterparts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-turbulent-sheltering-hypothesis">Turbulent sheltering hypothesis</h2>



Researchers from <a href="https://www.harvard.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard University</a>, led by Yangfan Zhang, proposed the "turbulent sheltering hypothesis." 



This theory suggests that fish swimming in groups effectively shield each other from the full force of disruptive water currents, making it easier to navigate through rough waters. Essentially, fish have figured out that there's strength in numbers when it comes to battling the elements.



To test this hypothesis, the researchers conducted experiments with giant danios (Devario aeqipinnatus). They observed these fish swimming alone and in groups of eight, both in turbulent and calm water conditions. 



Using high-speed cameras and a respirometer (a device that measures respiration rates and energy expenditure), the researchers were able to meticulously analyze the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/in-schools-fish-have-mastered-the-skill-of-moving-without-sound/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">movements</a> and energy consumption of the fish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fish-teamwork-while-swimming">Fish teamwork while swimming</h2>



The experimental findings provided compelling evidence for the energy-saving benefits of schooling behavior in fish.



Schooling fish,&nbsp;those swimming in cohesive groups,&nbsp;were observed to have a drastically reduced energetic cost compared to fish swimming alone.&nbsp;Specifically,&nbsp;in turbulent water conditions,&nbsp;fish swimming in schools demonstrated a remarkable 79% reduction in energy expenditure compared to solitary individuals.



This reduction in energy expenditure was accompanied by behavioral adaptations in response to turbulence.&nbsp;Schooling fish were observed to swim in tighter formations,&nbsp;minimizing their exposure to disruptive currents.&nbsp;



This clustering behavior allowed them to effectively utilize the hydrodynamic advantages of group swimming,&nbsp;reducing the individual effort required to maintain speed and stability.



Conversely,&nbsp;solitary fish were forced to compensate for the lack of collective sheltering by increasing their tail-beat frequency and amplitude.&nbsp;This increased effort to maintain the same speed as their schooling counterparts highlights the significant energetic burden faced by fish swimming alone in turbulent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-migrating-towards-poles-escape-warming-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environments</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fish-ecology-and-conservation">Fish ecology and conservation</h2>



This research has significant implications for our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-are-getting-smaller-as-waters-temperatures-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish ecology</a> and behavior. It also has practical applications in conservation efforts. 



The findings could inform the design and maintenance of habitats for protected fish species and aid in managing invasive ones.



The insights gained from this research hold significant implications for various fields,&nbsp;including fish ecology,hydrodynamics,&nbsp;and conservation.&nbsp;



By understanding how fish schools utilize collective movement to mitigate the energetic costs of swimming in turbulent environments, experts can gain a deeper understanding of fish behavior and ecological interactions.



Additionally,&nbsp;the study contributes to the field of hydrodynamics by shedding light on the complex interactions between fluid flow and biological organisms.&nbsp;



The observations of fish adjusting their swimming patterns and formations in response to turbulence provide valuable data for refining mathematical models and simulations of fluid dynamics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collective-movement-in-fish-swimming">Collective movement in fish swimming</h2>



The study of collective movement, not just in fish but also in birds and other animals, has always captivated scientists and nature enthusiasts. This research adds another layer to our understanding of how animals have evolved to overcome environmental challenges through cooperation.



"What is the function of schooling behavior in fishes? We show that being in a school substantially reduces the energetic cost for fish swimming in a turbulent environment, compared to swimming alone, providing support for the hypothesis that schooling behavior protects individual fish from the increased energetic cost associated with swimming in turbulence," noted the study authors.



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



The research also raises intriguing questions about the energy dynamics of group movement in other aquatic and aerial animals. Could similar principles of energy conservation apply to flocks of birds flying in formation or pods of dolphins swimming together?



Future studies will likely delve deeper into these questions and explore the broader implications of collective movement across various species.



In sum, fish schools have revealed yet another secret: the power of teamwork to overcome the challenges of a turbulent environment. 



This research not only enhances our understanding of fish behavior but also opens new avenues for conservation efforts and inspires further exploration into the fascinating world of collective movement in the animal kingdom. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosbiology/article?id=10.1371/journal.pbio.3002501" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLoS Biology</a>.



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Fish use 79% less energy when they swim in a group

The ocean can be a turbulent place, especially for small...

Adopting methods from the dairy industry, researchers have discovered that a slow-growth diet prior to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-pig-day-honoring-the-role-of-an-underappreciated-animal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">breeding</a> can result in more offspring and healthier, longer-lived mother pigs.



This innovative approach appears to offer significant benefits for the reproductive health and longevity of pigs through multiple breeding cycles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-a-slow-growth-diet">Impact of a slow-growth diet</h2>



Charles Maxwell is a professor of animal science for the experiment station, the research arm of the <a href="https://uada.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture</a>. 



Maxwell revealed that the slow-growth diet, inspired by practices used for dairy cows since the 1980s, involves reducing the weight gain of female pigs before breeding.



Traditionally, female breeding pigs were fed similarly to non-breeding pigs, often leading to issues of overweight and associated complications during the breeding phase.



The study carried out by Maxwell and his colleagues introduced two distinct diets for young female pigs.



The first, a low-nutrient diet, reduced the intake of lysine, an essential amino acid, and lowered the diet's energy density through the inclusion of wheat middlings and dried corn distiller's grain with solubles. 



In contrast, the control group received a standard diet that surpassed typical industry nutritional standards.



The results were telling. Gilts (female pigs pre-breeding) on the low-nutrient diet were allowed to eat as much as they wanted yet ended their 26-week development period about 15 pounds lighter than those on the normal diet. However, at the time of breeding, both groups averaged the same body weight.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-benefits-observed">Long-term benefits observed</h2>



The low-nutrient diet not only prevented excessive weight gain but also supported better nutritional absorption during lactation. 



"The gilts fed a lower nutrient diet retained more backfat at weaning, suggesting they managed their reserves more efficiently than those on a normal diet," explained Maxwell. 



Monitoring backfat at the 10th rib provided a simple method to gauge body fat changes, a critical factor in swine health.



Moreover, the low-nutrient group boasted superior reproductive outcomes over four breeding cycles, with significant increases in the number of piglets born and weaned. 



"Feeding low-energy and reduced protein diets during gilt development can promote their ability to restore body condition during lactation, which boosted survivability throughout the four parity cycles and thus extended their longevity," Maxwell noted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advantages-of-a-slow-growth-diet-in-pigs">Advantages of a slow-growth diet in pigs</h2>



The implications of these findings are vast, particularly for regions like Arkansas, where swine production is a major industry. 



The state has developed a robust "sow farm concept," producing high-health replacement females to supply the broader swine industry. 



The study, which explored the benefits of a slow-growth diet in collaboration with major industry players like JBS and supported by institutions like the <a href="https://www.usda.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Department of Agriculture</a>, indicates a potential shift towards more sustainable and efficient breeding practices.



This could revolutionize standard practices and enhance the economic viability of swine production.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-forward-in-swine-research">Moving forward in swine research</h2>



Despite the success, Maxwell acknowledges that the approach is not foolproof. "We're not there yet. Even with that treatment, we didn't have 100% survival. So, we still have a lot of questions to minimize the loss," he admitted. 



The ongoing search for improvements in sow longevity underscores the complex challenges in swine nutrition and reproductive health.



This research is part of a broader mission by the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture to connect trusted research with the adoption of best practices in agriculture, aiming to enhance community and family livelihoods through science-driven solutions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-benefits-of-slow-growth-diet-in-pigs">Other benefits of slow-growth diet in pigs</h2>



A slow-growth diet in pigs offers several benefits beyond the immediate findings of this research. Such a diet can improve overall <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-welfare-biggest-concern-people-making-food-choices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal welfare</a> by reducing the risk of obesity-related health issues, which are common in pigs fed traditional high-energy diets. 



This approach can also enhance the immune system, making pigs less susceptible to diseases and reducing the need for antibiotics.



Moreover, a slow-growth diet can lead to better meat quality. Pigs that grow more slowly tend to have better marbling and meat texture, which can result in higher market value. 



Environmental benefits also arise, as pigs on this diet produce less waste and require fewer resources, contributing to more sustainable farming practices.



Additionally, implementing slow-growth diets can lead to cost savings for farmers by reducing feed costs and improving the efficiency of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-pig-day-honoring-the-role-of-an-underappreciated-animal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feed conversion</a>. 



Overall, this approach supports healthier pigs, better product quality, and more sustainable and cost-effective farming operations.



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Slow-growth diet for pigs increases longevity and productivity

Adopting methods from the dairy industry, researchers have discovered that...

In a fascinating discovery, researchers have found that during sleep, some brain cells not only replay recent experiences but also prepare for future ones.&nbsp;



The research suggests that precognitive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-dreams-influence-our-perceptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dreams</a>, or dreams that predict the future, may be more than just a coincidence. The brain may actually anticipate upcoming experiences.



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



The study, conducted by researchers from <a href="https://www.rice.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rice University</a> and the <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a>, was focused on sleep and learning. It offers new insights into how the hippocampus of rats stabilizes and tunes spatial representations after they navigate a maze for the first time.



“Certain neurons fire in response to specific stimuli,” said study co-author Professor Kamran Diba. “Neurons in the visual cortex fire when presented with the appropriate visual stimulus. The neurons we’re studying show place preferences.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-experiences-and-memory-storage">New experiences and memory storage</h2>



The experts investigated how these specialized neurons form representations of the world post-experience. They focused on sharp wave ripples, a pattern of neuronal activation crucial for consolidating new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-helps-the-brain-consolidate-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memories</a> and tagging parts of new experiences for memory storage. 



"For the first time, we have observed individual neurons stabilizing spatial representations during rest periods," noted Rice neuroscientist Caleb Kemere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-and-memory-consolidation-nbsp">Sleep and memory consolidation&nbsp;</h2>



The connection between sleep and learning has been gradually understood over many years, with significant advancements in the 20th century.&nbsp;



Research in the early 1900s began to explore sleep’s impact on cognitive functions and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-breathing-impacts-memory-formation-during-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory consolidation</a>. 



However, it wasn't until the latter half of the 20th century that more detailed studies, using EEGs and other tools, began to clearly demonstrate sleep’s critical role in consolidating memories and learning.



This link is demonstrated by improved memory test performance following sleep compared to periods of wakefulness or sleep deprivation.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-replays-experiences-during-sleep">Brain replays experiences during sleep</h2>



Previous research has also shown that neurons in the brains of sleeping <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-needed-sleep-before-they-even-had-brains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> replay their exploration paths, helping to transform new experiences into stable memories. In the current study, the researchers sought to explore this phenomenon further.



“We imagined that some neurons might change their representations - reflecting the experience we’ve all had of waking up with a new understanding of a problem,” said Kemere.&nbsp;



“Showing this, however, required that we track how individual neurons achieve spatial tuning, i.e., the process by which the brain learns to navigate a new route or environment.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-activity-spikes-in-individual-neurons-nbsp">Activity spikes in individual neurons&nbsp;</h2>



The team trained rats to run on a raised track for liquid rewards and monitored spikes of individual neurons in the hippocampus.



By analyzing the average spiking rate, they estimated each neuron's place field - the specific area in the environment that a neuron “cared” about the most.



“The critical point here is that place fields are estimated using the behavior of the animal,” explained Kemere, noting the complexity of measuring place fields during rest.



“I’ve been thinking for a long time about how we can evaluate the preferences of neurons outside of the maze, such as during sleep,” said Diba. “We addressed this challenge by relating the activity of each individual neuron to the activity of all the other neurons.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-the-preferences-of-brain-cells-nbsp">Tracking the preferences of brain cells&nbsp;</h2>



This innovative approach led to a statistical machine learning method that predicted where the animal dreamed it was, allowing estimation of each neuron's spatial tuning during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-birds-dream-of-flying-scientists-say-they-now-know-the-answer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dreams</a>.



“The ability to track the preferences of neurons even without a stimulus was an important breakthrough for us,” said Diba.



Both Diba and Kemere praised Kourosh Maboudi, a postdoctoral researcher at Michigan and the study's lead author, for his role in developing this method.



The machine learning technique confirmed that the spatial representations formed during new experiences are stable across several hours of post-experience sleep. However, just as the researchers expected, there was more to the story.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-future-experiences-during-sleep">Predicting future experiences during sleep</h2>



“The thing that I loved the most about this research and the reason that I was so excited about it is finding that it’s not necessarily the case that during sleep the only thing these neurons do is to stabilize a memory of the experience,” said Kemere. “It turns out some neurons end up doing something else.”



“We can see these other changes occurring during sleep, and when we put the animals back in the environment a second time, we can validate that these changes really do reflect something that was learned while the animals were asleep. It’s as if the second exposure to the space actually happens while the animal is sleeping.”



This represents a direct observation of neuroplasticity occurring during sleep. Kemere noted that while most plasticity research examines waking periods, this study highlights the brain's ability to rewire and form new representations during sleep.



The research was supported by the National Institutes of Health. The findings are published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07397-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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The sleeping brain may predict future experiences

In a fascinating discovery, researchers have found that during sleep,...

A recent genetic study led by the <a href="https://www.helsinki.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Helsinki</a> has found that heavy fishing at the beginning of the fishing season may result in younger Atlantic salmon that are smaller in size. 



This discovery is vital for conserving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/leaving-big-fish-in-the-ocean-greatly-reduces-co2-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">large fish</a>, which are essential for the diversity and sustainability of salmon populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-salmon-genetic-variant-nbsp">Large salmon genetic variant&nbsp;</h2>



Atlantic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-unpredictable-effects-on-salmon-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salmon</a> are typically caught during their spawning migration. The study, focusing on wild salmon in the northern Baltic Sea, revealed that early-season fishing predominantly targets salmon carrying a “large salmon genetic variant.” 



This variant is responsible for guiding salmon to grow larger and mature at an older age - an important trait for both the viability of salmon stocks and the fishing industry.



Genetic analyses of thousands of wild salmon caught between 1928 and 2020 by fisheries from the northern Baltic Sea showed that fishers consistently caught salmon with the large salmon variant more frequently in the early part of the fishing season, regardless of the year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timing-of-fishing-impacts-salmon-size">Timing of fishing impacts salmon size</h2>



“This finding suggests that the timing of fishing may cause evolutionary changes in the age and size that Atlantic salmon reach before maturation. Intensive fishing, especially in the early fishing season, may lead to the 'large salmon variant' becoming rarer and to salmon spawning at a younger age and smaller size,” explained lead author Antti Miettinen, a biologist at the University of Helsinki.



Such evolutionary impacts, resulting in fewer large salmon, would negatively affect the diversity and viability of salmon populations and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-fleets-hidden-industrial-fishing-activity-exposed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing industry</a>, which values large catches.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-induced-evolutionary-selection-pressures-nbsp">Human-induced evolutionary selection pressures&nbsp;</h2>



The results of the study are crucial for understanding how human-induced evolutionary selection pressures, such as fishing, can affect wild fish populations and their important traits.&nbsp;



The largest wild Baltic salmon stock spawns in the Tornio and Kalix Rivers in northern Finland and Sweden and holds high ecological and societal value. The researchers found that early-season fishing at sea and in the Tornio River targeted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/decline-in-atlantic-salmon-linked-to-humans-and-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salmon</a> from upstream sites in the river system more often than fishing later in the season.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-impacts-of-fishing-on-salmon">Evolutionary impacts of fishing on salmon</h2>



“Fishing in the early part of the fishing season targets salmon that spawn in the headwaters of these rivers, which should be accounted for in fisheries management to ensure the viability of these salmon populations,” Miettinen explained.



“By analyzing the genetics of samples collected across the northern Baltic over many decades, this study shows how human activities could cause evolutionary changes in wild salmon populations,” said senior author Victoria Pritchard, a biologist at the <a href="https://www.uhi.ac.uk/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of the Highlands and Islands</a>.



“This study is a fantastic example of using genetic approaches to answer important questions about the conservation and management of biodiversity. The genetic tools designed during this project can be used to monitor the future impacts of fishing regimen changes.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-atlantic-salmon-nbsp">Atlantic salmon&nbsp;</h2>



Atlantic salmon is a species primarily found in the northern Atlantic Ocean and rivers that flow into this ocean. These fish are anadromous, meaning they hatch in freshwater, migrate to the ocean as they grow, and then return to freshwater to spawn.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-life-cycle">Unique life cycle</h3>



The life cycle of Atlantic salmon makes them unique among many fish species because of this long <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-unpredictable-effects-on-salmon-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration</a>, which can be quite arduous and fraught with hazards, from natural predators to human-made obstacles like dams.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-appearance-nbsp">Appearance&nbsp;</h3>



Their appearance is distinctive, with a silver-flanked body during their ocean phase and darker, more pronounced coloring when they return to spawn.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigation">Navigation</h3>



Atlantic salmon are also known for their ability to “leap” upriver, a necessary skill to navigate upstream to their spawning grounds.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-role-nbsp">Ecological role&nbsp;</h3>



Historically, Atlantic salmon have been a vital part of both the ecosystem and regional economies, supporting commercial and recreational fishing industries.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-population-decline-nbsp">Population decline&nbsp;</h3>



However, their populations have faced significant declines due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution, leading to strict regulations and conservation efforts in many areas they inhabit.&nbsp;



These efforts include hatchery programs and habitat restoration projects to support their numbers and maintain their role in the biodiversity of their native regions.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/eva.13690" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Evolutionary Applications</a>.



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Early-season fishing may shrink the size of salmon

A recent genetic study led by the University of Helsinki...

Ever wondered what your furry friend is really saying when they bark? It turns out, we might soon be able to understand our canine companion's speech better than ever before. Researchers at the <a href="https://news.umich.edu/using-ai-to-decode-dog-vocalizations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a> are using artificial intelligence (AI) to decipher the language of dog barks, with some surprising results.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-human-speech-to-dog-barks">From human speech to dog barks</h2>



The team's innovative approach involved leveraging AI models originally designed for human speech to analyze dog vocalizations. 



"By using speech processing models initially trained on human speech, our research opens a new window into how we can leverage what we built so far in speech processing to start understanding the nuances of dog barks," explained Professor Rada Mihalcea, director of U-M's <a href="https://ai.engin.umich.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI Laboratory</a>.



This approach proved surprisingly effective, allowing the researchers to identify different types of barks, such as those indicating playfulness or aggression. 



But the model's capabilities didn't stop there. It was also able to glean additional information from the vocalizations, such as the dog's age, breed, and sex.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scarcity-of-dog-data">Scarcity of dog data</h2>



One of the major hurdles in developing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/language-like-patterns-decoded-in-sperm-whale-communication/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI models for animal communication</a> is the limited amount of available data. While there are vast resources for recording human speech, collecting similar data from animals is a much more complex task.



"Animal vocalizations are logistically much harder to solicit and record," said Artem Abzaliev, lead author and U-M doctoral student in computer science and engineering. "They must be passively recorded in the wild or, in the case of domestic pets, with the permission of owners."



To tackle this challenge, the researchers turned to a dataset of dog vocalizations recorded from 74 dogs of various breeds, ages, and sexes in diverse contexts.



By adapting an existing machine-learning model called Wav2Vec2, originally trained on human speech, they were able to successfully interpret the acoustic data from the dogs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-speech-ai-and-dog-barks">Human speech AI and dog barks</h2>



The results were impressive. The Wav2Vec2 model not only achieved a remarkable 70% accuracy in classifying different types of barks but also outperformed other models specifically trained on dog bark data. 



This is a significant step forward, demonstrating that AI models optimized for human speech can be effectively repurposed for decoding animal communication.



"This is the first time that techniques optimized for human speech have been built upon to help with the decoding of animal communication," said Mihalcea.



"Our results show that the sounds and patterns derived from human speech can serve as a foundation for analyzing and understanding the acoustic patterns of other sounds, such as animal vocalizations."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-implications">Study implications </h2>



The ability to better understand dog vocalizations has wide-ranging implications. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improved-animal-welfare">Improved animal welfare</h3>



By deciphering the nuances of barks,&nbsp;whines,&nbsp;and growls,&nbsp;we can better assess a dog's emotional and physical state.&nbsp;This can lead to more effective training techniques,&nbsp;improved veterinary care,&nbsp;and enhanced shelter environments tailored to individual needs.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strengthened-human-canine-bond">Strengthened human-canine bond</h3>



Knowing what our dogs are trying to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-dogs-communicate-with-us-is-impacted-by-their-facial-markings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communicate</a> allows for deeper empathy and connection.&nbsp;We can respond more appropriately to their needs,&nbsp;fostering trust and mutual understanding.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhanced-safety-nbsp">Enhanced safety&nbsp;</h3>



Identifying aggressive or fearful vocalizations can help prevent bites and other dangerous situations,both for humans and other animals.&nbsp;This is particularly important in contexts like dog parks and shelters.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advanced-dog-behavior-research-nbsp-with-human-speech-ai">Advanced dog behavior research&nbsp;with human speech AI</h3>



AI-powered analysis of vocalizations opens new avenues for studying dog behavior,&nbsp;potentially revealing insights into their cognitive abilities,&nbsp;social dynamics,&nbsp;and emotional experiences.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extended-applications-to-other-species">Extended applications to other species</h3>



The success of this research demonstrates the potential of AI to decipher the communication of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-monitor-biodiversity-through-animal-sounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other animals</a>. This could revolutionize our understanding of diverse species, from cats and horses to whales and elephants. 



By analyzing their vocalizations,&nbsp;we can gain valuable insights into their behavior,&nbsp;social structures,&nbsp;and emotional states,&nbsp;ultimately contributing to better conservation and welfare efforts.



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



While the dream of fully understanding our pets may still be a way off, this research brings us closer than ever before. 



"There is so much we don't yet know about the animals that share this world with us," said Mihalcea. "Advances in AI can be used to revolutionize our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/farmers-want-to-talk-to-their-cows-so-ai-is-helping-them-interpret-moos-and-burps/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal communication</a>, and our findings suggest that we may not have to start from scratch."



As AI continues to evolve, we can look forward to a future where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/want-a-happier-marriage-try-the-loving-talk-you-use-with-your-dog/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication</a> barriers between humans and animals are gradually broken down, fostering a deeper understanding and connection.



The study is published in<a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2404.18739" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> ArXiv.org</a>.



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Dog barks can be translated using human speech patterns

Ever wondered what your furry friend is really saying when...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



-----



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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







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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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