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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

Dog aggression is a serious concern for pet owners, as it can be unsettling, stressful, and even dangerous, not only for the dog but also for other pets, family members, and strangers.&nbsp;



Given the complexities and varying degrees of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/understand-dogs-language-aggression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aggressive</a> behaviors, Dr. Lori Teller, a clinical professor at the <a href="https://vetmed.tamu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Texas A&amp;M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences</a>, provides expert guidance on recognizing and addressing these behaviors effectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dog-aggression-with-no-apparent-trigger-nbsp">Dog aggression with no apparent trigger&nbsp;</h2>



One particularly severe and complex form of aggression is rage syndrome, which causes dogs to exhibit extreme aggression without any apparent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-appear-to-get-jealous-over-their-owners-affection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">triggers</a>. 



“Dogs with rage syndrome have episodes of extreme aggression toward a person or other animals that occur seemingly out-of-the-blue and without provocation, yet they otherwise appear friendly and happy,” explained Dr. Teller.&nbsp;



This condition is notoriously challenging to diagnose and treat, since the causes, which may include genetic and neurological factors, remain unclear.&nbsp;



“No identifiable trigger leading up to the attack is one clear sign of rage syndrome. Additional signs include confusion or seeming dazedness during or immediately after an episode, glazed eyes, dramatic escalation of aggression without any warning, and unpredictability of episodes,” noted Dr. Teller.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conflict-and-fear-based-dog-aggression">Conflict- and fear-based dog aggression</h2>



It is crucial not to confuse rage syndrome with conflict- or fear-based aggression, which are more common and natural responses to perceived threats or conflicts.&nbsp;



According to Dr. Teller, there is usually a clearly identifiable trigger for other types of aggression, unlike with rage syndrome. Yet, some owners have difficulties reading a dog's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-and-humans-process-social-information-in-surprisingly-similar-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">body language</a> or recognizing the trigger. 



In cases of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aggressive-behavior-in-dogs-is-most-often-caused-by-fear/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fear-based</a> or conflict aggression, dogs often display warning signs before an attack, including a hunched body posture, lip-licking, trembling, baring teeth, growling, or snapping. 



These forms of aggression are often defensive in nature, but dogs may also exhibit predatory behaviors that appear aggressive but are actually offensive and driven by the dog’s instinct to pursue prey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effectively-managing-aggression-nbsp">Effectively managing aggression&nbsp;</h2>



When a dog exhibits aggressive behavior, owners should avoid intervening physically during an episode to prevent injuries. After the episode has subsided, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian.&nbsp;



“The veterinarian will obtain a complete behavioral history and probably perform some diagnostic tests to rule out a medical problem that has led to the aggressive behaviors,” said Dr. Teller. “An example of a medical problem that may trigger an aggressive response is when someone touches a painful area, such as with osteoarthritis or an ear infection.”



By contrast, “rage syndrome can be caused by seizure-like activity in the brain, so veterinarians may recommend an electroencephalogram, a test that measures electrical activity in the brain, or an advanced imaging modality such as an MRI or CT scan, which takes detailed images of the brain to identify any abnormalities in its structure,” she added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-management-of-dog-aggression-nbsp">Long-term management of dog aggression&nbsp;</h2>



Long-term management of aggression requires a comprehensive approach that includes both medical and behavioral interventions.&nbsp;



Depending on the underlying cause of aggression, dogs may be given an anxiolytic medication to relieve anxiety, an anticonvulsant to control the risk of seizures, or a combination of such medications. A behavioral modification plan is also essential and may involve referral to a veterinary behaviorist.



Understanding the different forms of aggression and seeking professional assistance when necessary can help dog owners provide the necessary care and support for their pets.&nbsp;



By addressing aggression effectively, the impact on the dog’s life and the broader household can be minimized, leading to a safer and more harmonious living environment.



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



Dog aggression is a significant behavioral issue that can manifest in various forms, ranging from growling and snapping to biting. It often arises due to multiple factors including genetics, lack of socialization, poor <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>, fear, or a previous negative experience. 



Dogs may also exhibit aggressive behaviors when they're trying to assert dominance or protect their territory, owners, or resources such as food, toys, or other objects.



Understanding the triggers of aggression is crucial for managing it effectively. This involves observing when the aggression occurs, such as in the presence of other dogs or strangers, during meals, or in specific locations like their resting area.&nbsp;



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Can you control your dog’s aggression?

Dog aggression is a serious concern for pet owners, as...

Emperor penguins, iconic symbols of Antarctica, are facing increasing survival challenges as Antarctica's ice is melting away. A recent study by the <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Antarctic Survey</a> reveals worrying trends for these charismatic birds due to declining sea-ice levels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disappearing-sea-ice">Disappearing sea ice</h2>



Emperor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-emperor-penguins-need-better-protection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">penguins</a> rely on a specific type of sea ice called "fast ice." It's like a giant, frozen platform anchored to the Antarctic shoreline, which makes a perfect spot for the flightless birds to raise a family.



But this frozen haven is shrinking. Recent studies have identified a disturbing trend: sea ice levels are plummeting. This significant drop in sea ice is devastating emperor penguin breeding.



In 2023 alone, a fifth of known <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emperor-penguins-face-tragic-breeding-failures-due-to-sea-ice-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emperor</a> penguin colonies suffered breeding failures due to early sea ice breakup. This means the penguin chicks were forced to enter the icy water before their feathers were waterproof. It's a heartbreaking loss, and the second worst year on record since scientists began tracking breeding failures in 2018.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emperor-penguins-and-melting-sea-ice">Emperor penguins and melting sea ice</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarcticas-emperor-penguin-officially-listed-as-endangered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emperor penguins</a> are an icon of Antarctica – majestic yet surprisingly goofy with their signature waddle. Beyond their entertainment value, the penguins are an important part of their ecosystem. 



Scientists warn that if greenhouse gas emissions continue unchecked, we could lose nearly all emperor penguins by the end of the century. That's virtual extinction for an entire species.



"As the continent warms we are seeing the ice break out earlier, leading to higher chick mortality. With fewer chicks surviving at many colonies, it is likely that over time a number of current breeding sites will become untenable, and the overall population will decline. This is a future that our climate models predict.” said Dr. Peter Fretwell of the British Antarctic Survey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-emperor-penguins-adapt-to-sea-ice-loss">How emperor penguins adapt to sea ice loss</h2>



The situation for emperor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-emperor-penguins-survive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">penguins</a> is serious – shrinking sea ice is wreaking havoc on their breeding grounds. But there's a flicker of hope. Penguins are incredibly resilient, and they're proving it.



In 2022, some colonies showed remarkable adaptation to potentially devastating levels of ice loss. They took bold steps to survive. Some moved to find more stable ice, while others totally changed their game by nesting on icebergs or ice shelves instead.



"The fact that we are seeing these adaptations in the worst affected colonies gives us some hope that the birds can react to their changing environment and move to find more stable ice,” noted Dr. Fretwell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-sea-ice-for-emperor-penguins">Saving sea ice for emperor penguins</h2>



Addressing the plight of emperor penguins requires a multifaceted approach that tackles the root cause of their challenges: climate change. To effectively combat the broad environmental shifts affecting these birds, a major global initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is essential. 



This overarching solution involves international cooperation to implement and adhere to stricter environmental policies and shift towards renewable energy sources. However, beyond the large-scale changes, there are practical steps that individuals and communities can take immediately to contribute to the solution:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Be informed</h3>



Understanding climate change and its impacts is the first step toward making meaningful change. It is vital to stay informed about the latest scientific research and policy developments related to climate change and its effects on global ecosystems, particularly Antarctica. 



Engaging with comprehensive, scientifically accurate sources can deepen our knowledge and sensitivity to how delicate systems like those supporting the emperor penguins are managed and protected. 



This information serves as a tool for making informed decisions and for advocating for policies that protect the environment.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Spread the word</h3>



Awareness and education are powerful catalysts for change. By sharing knowledge about the challenges faced by emperor penguins with your network, you can help raise the profile of climate issues. 



Conversations can inspire others to learn more and act, whether it’s through social media campaigns, community talks, or simply discussions among friends and family. 



The more people are aware of the impact of climate change on iconic species like the emperor penguin, the greater the public pressure on policymakers to act decisively in favor of sustainable practices and conservation efforts.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Support conservation efforts</h3>



Contributing to organizations that work directly on conserving Antarctica and its unique inhabitants can have an immediate impact. These organizations engage in a range of activities including direct action to protect wildlife, lobbying for policy changes, and conducting vital research that informs conservation strategies. 



By donating, volunteering, or even engaging in advocacy campaigns organized by these groups, you can help provide them with the resources they need to carry out their important work. Look for reputable, transparent organizations with proven track records in conservation science and policy.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Change personal habits</h3>



Every individual can contribute to reducing the global carbon footprint through everyday actions. 



Simple choices such as reducing reliance on fossil fuels by opting for public transport, biking, or walking when possible can significantly cut down one's carbon emissions. 



Reducing energy consumption at home by using energy-efficient appliances, turning off lights when not in use, and moderating heating and cooling can also contribute to lower overall greenhouse gas emissions. 



Furthermore, making conscious consumer choices such as supporting sustainable products and reducing waste goes a long way in promoting a more sustainable economy.



By combining these personal actions with broader advocacy for policy change, individuals can play a crucial role in addressing the causes of climate change. Collectively, these efforts create a groundswell of support for a healthier planet, paving the way for more stable and secure habitats for emperor penguins and other wildlife. 



Emperor penguins are battling for survival in a rapidly changing world. Every step taken, no matter how small, moves us closer to a sustainable future and helps to mitigate the impacts of climate change on vulnerable species around the world.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/antarctic-science/article/6-year-assessment-of-low-seaice-impacts-on-emperor-penguins/D884062FC1FFC9CFB4EB45C563FA695B" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic Science&nbsp;today</a>.



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Emperor penguins are rapidly vanishing due to sea ice decline

Emperor penguins, iconic symbols of Antarctica, are facing increasing survival...

A team of biologists led by the <a href="https://uol.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oldenburg</a> in Germany has recently made significant strides in understanding how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/migratory-birds-have-new-strategy-to-cope-with-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migratory birds</a> navigate with remarkable accuracy. 



The research, which also included experts from the <a href="https://ifv-vogelwarte.de/en/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Avian Research “Vogelwarte Helgoland”</a>, was focused on the role of a specific protein in birds’ eyes, believed to be a key magnetoreceptor enabling this navigation. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-basis-of-how-birds-navigate-nbsp">Genetic basis of how birds navigate&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers compared the genomes of several hundred bird species and observed notable evolutionary changes in the gene encoding the protein cryptochrome 4. They found that certain groups of birds have completely lost this gene.&nbsp;



“This suggests that the protein is important for adaptation to specific environmental conditions,” said senior author Miriam Liedvogel, the director of the Institute of Avian Research. “A similar pattern has been observed in other sensory proteins such as light-sensitive pigments in the eye.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-magnetoreception-in-birds">Magnetoreception in birds</h2>



Previous research revealed that magnetoreception in birds is linked to a complex quantum mechanical process in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-retinal-cells-explain-complex-color-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">retina</a>. 



For instance, a 2021 study suggested cryptochrome 4 as the probable magnetoreceptor, showing that it is present in the retina and responds to magnetic fields with a quantum effect, an ability more pronounced in robins than in non-migratory birds like chickens and pigeons.



“Consequently, the reason why cryptochrome 4 is more sensitive in robins than in chickens and pigeons must be found in the protein’s DNA sequence,” explained lead author Corinna Langebrake, a researcher at the Institute of Avian Research. “The sequence was probably optimized by evolutionary processes in these nocturnal migratory birds.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-cryptochrome-4">The role of cryptochrome 4</h2>



In the current study, the team examined the cryptochrome 4 genes across 363 bird species, from the little spotted kiwi to the song sparrow.&nbsp;



They compared the evolutionary rate of cryptochrome 4 with that of other related proteins and found that while other cryptochromes have changed little over time due to their crucial role in regulating the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/internal-clock-living-human-cells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">internal clock</a>, cryptochrome 4 showed high variability. This variability suggests a specialized function, potentially as a magnetoreceptor. 



“A similar pattern has been observed in other sensory proteins such as light-sensitive pigments in the eye,” Liedvogel said. Particularly among passerine birds, the protein appears to have undergone rapid selection, further supporting its specialized role in magnetoreception.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alternative-mechanisms-of-magnetoreception">Alternative mechanisms of magnetoreception</h2>



Interestingly, the study also found that three clades of tropical birds - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-parrots-in-the-illegal-wildlife-trade-with-dna-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">parrots</a>, hummingbirds, and Tyranni (suboscines), known as tyrants - have lost the gene for cryptochrome 4, indicating it may not be essential for their survival. 



Since some tyrants are long-distance migrants, their lack of cryptochrome 4 presents an opportunity to explore alternative mechanisms of magnetoreception.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-do-some-birds-navigate-without-any-magnetic-sense">Do some birds navigate without any magnetic sense?</h2>



“The fact that, unlike robins, they do not have cryptochrome 4 makes them an ideal system for investigating various hypotheses about magnetoreception,” Langebrake explained.&nbsp;



A key question is whether the Tyranni have evolved a magnetic sense that functions without the cryptochrome 4 protein, or if they can navigate without relying on any magnetic sense at all.&nbsp;



Additionally, it's possible that their magnetic sensing capabilities mirror those found in robins, which rely on light and can be influenced by external factors such as radio waves.



“The first two scenarios would strongly corroborate the cryptochrome 4 hypothesis, while the third would pose a problem for the theory,” she added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-magnetoreception-and-bird-navigation-nbsp">Magnetoreception and bird navigation&nbsp;</h2>



Moving forward, the research team plans to investigate magnetic orientation in Tyranni to better understand the function of cryptochrome 4 and its importance in magnetoreception among migratory birds.&nbsp;



This research not only deepens our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-magnetic-field-navigate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">avian navigation</a> but also opens new avenues for exploring evolutionary adaptations in sensory perception.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-how-birds-navigate-nbsp">More about how birds navigate&nbsp;</h2>



Migratory birds have remarkable abilities to navigate across vast distances, often traveling thousands of miles between breeding and wintering grounds. Their navigation skills are attributed to a variety of mechanisms:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sun-compass">Sun compass</h3>



Birds use the sun as a compass. They can gauge the time of day and adjust their flight direction based on the sun's position in the sky.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-compass">Star compass</h3>



During night migration, many birds use the stars to navigate. They can identify constellations and use them to maintain their flight path.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geomagnetic-field">Geomagnetic field</h3>



Birds are sensitive to Earth's geomagnetic field. They have magnetoreceptors that allow them to sense magnetic fields, which helps them determine their latitude and longitude for orientation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polarized-light-patterns">Polarized light patterns</h3>



Birds can detect polarized light patterns in the sky, which are most prominent at sunrise and sunset. These patterns can help calibrate their internal compasses.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-landmarks">Landmarks</h3>



For birds that fly at lower altitudes, physical landmarks like rivers, mountains, and coastlines can serve as guides.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-olfactory-cues">Olfactory cues</h3>



Some research suggests that certain birds may also use olfactory cues - smelling their way along their migration routes.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2023.2308" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences</a>.



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How do migratory birds navigate with such accuracy?

A team of biologists led by the University of Oldenburg...

<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sex-impacts-gene-expression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sexual dimorphism</a>, which is the observable difference in appearance between male and female members of a species, occurs widely across the animal kingdom, including in humans. An interesting variation of this is sex-limited polymorphism, where one sex exhibits more variation in a certain trait compared to the other. 



An international team of scientists has explored this concept by examining the genetic basis for color polymorphism in adult female <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cuckoos-are-unable-to-change-their-migrations-in-response-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cuckoos</a> of the genus Cuculus, which are known for their brood parasitic behavior. The research provides insights into the evolutionary development and practical implications of this trait variation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-basis-of-female-cuckoo-colors">Genetic basis of female cuckoo colors</h2>



The scientists examined why adult female cuckoos, unlike their uniformly gray male counterparts, may exhibit either gray or rufous (reddish-brown) plumage. This variability is not only evident across different cuckoo species but also within populations of the same species.



Using genome-wide association analysis on nuclear DNA from both Common and Oriental cuckoos, the researchers aimed to pinpoint the genetic factors behind the females' diverse plumage in an attempt to understand the underlying pigmentation mechanisms and the evolutionary history of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-wonder-evolutionary-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">traits</a>.



In <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/untold-story-of-bird-evolution-revealed-through-genetics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a>, unlike in mammals, it is the females that are heterogametic (ZW), differing from the homogametic males (ZZ). This led researchers to speculate that the observed color variation in female cuckoos might be linked to genes on the W chromosome. 



“We found that, instead of a single gene or set of genes, nearly all variations in the gray or rufous coloration were associated with the full length of the female-limited W chromosome,” said co-author Mark Haber, the executive director of the <a href="https://asrc.gc.cuny.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CUNY Advanced Science Research Center</a> (CUNY ASRC) and a psychology professor at the <a href="https://www.gc.cuny.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CUNY Graduate Center</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biochemical-processes-of-cuckoo-colors">Biochemical processes of cuckoo colors</h2>



The scientists also examined the biochemical processes of coloration, revealing that both the Common and Oriental cuckoos use two forms of melanin-based pigmentation - similar to that in human skin - to produce their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/for-songbirds-bright-colors-are-a-blessing-and-a-curse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">color</a> variations. 



Further genomic analysis of these species traced the origin of the color polymorphism in female cuckoos to a mutation that occurred over one million years ago, long before these species diverged around 140,000 years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-advantages-of-female-cuckoo-coloration-nbsp">Potential advantages of female cuckoo coloration&nbsp;</h2>



The implications of these color variations are profound. For instance, female cuckoos with the rarer rufous plumage might benefit from mimicking juvenile cuckoos to avoid male harassment during mating seasons.&nbsp;



Moreover, as brood parasites who lay their eggs in the nests of other bird species, rufous females could potentially escape detection by host species better than their gray counterparts, which might reduce the risk of being attacked by host parents.



“The fascinating idea that many other sex-specific traits, which are harder to study, might also be genetically determined in the matrilinear genome, similar to the color polymorphism in female cuckoos,” concluded senior author Jochen Wolf, an expert in evolutionary biology at LMU Munich.



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



Cuckoo birds are known for their distinctive calls and unique breeding behavior, particularly their practice of brood parasitism. This involves laying their eggs in the nests of other bird species, leaving the unsuspecting host birds to raise the cuckoo's offspring.&nbsp;



As a result, the host species may inadvertently neglect their own young due to the demanding nature of the cuckoo chick, which often grows larger than its foster siblings.



Cuckoos are found across the world and are highly adaptable to various environments. The family Cuculidae, to which they belong, includes both brood-parasitic cuckoos as well as species that raise their own young. Their diet varies from insects to caterpillars, and some species also consume fruits and seeds.



The cuckoo's call, which gives them their name, is emblematic in culture and often signals the arrival of spring. The most commonly recognized call is that of the common cuckoo in Europe, famously captured in the phrase "cuck-oo." 



This sound has not only embedded them in folklore but also inspired the creation of the cuckoo clock, where the bird's call marks the passing hours.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adl5255" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Female cuckoo colors provide evolutionary advantages

Sexual dimorphism, which is the observable difference in appearance between...

Life in the wilds of the Yukon is a relentless test of survival. For the red squirrels that inhabit this territory, danger lurks around every corner - freezing temperatures, scarce resources, and hungry predators. So how do <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/southern-flying-squirrel-spotted-after-more-than-four-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">squirrels</a> manage the traumas? 



Why do some squirrels live longer, healthier lives than others? Scientists are discovering fascinating answers that even have implications for our understanding of human stress and resilience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-traumas-shorter-squirrel-lives">Early traumas, shorter squirrel lives</h2>



Lauren Petrullo, a researcher at the <a href="https://www.arizona.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arizona</a>, is deeply involved in studying the survival factors of red squirrels. Her recent study highlights a significant finding: young red squirrels that encounter numerous traumas during their first year typically experience a reduction in their adult lifespan. 



Specifically, in the challenging conditions of the Yukon, such early life stress leads to an average lifespan reduction of at least 14 percent. This research underscores the critical impact of early developmental conditions on the longevity of these animals.



"The ecosystem red squirrels inhabit in this region is unique. Every three to seven years, their favorite food – seed from cones of white spruce trees – is produced in superabundance during what we call a food boom," Petrullo said.



"We found that these booms, even though rare, can interrupt the biological embedding of early-life adversity. If a squirrel had a harsh first year of life, if they were lucky enough to experience a food boom in their second year of life, they lived just as long – if not longer – in spite of early-life adversity."&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-a-food-boom">What is a food boom?</h2>



A food boom is a sudden and significant increase in the availability of food resources within an animal's environment. There are multiple causes behind food booms. Some food sources experience cyclical booms and busts. For example, trees that produce nuts or seeds might only have huge yields every few years.



Additionally, favorable weather conditions can lead to increased plant growth, insect populations, or other food sources for animals. The removal of a predator or the introduction of a new prey species can disrupt the balance and make more food available for some animals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-boom-benefits">Food boom benefits</h2>



Even with a rough beginning, plentiful food sources can repair damage caused by early-life stress in animals. The research shows that squirrels who had difficult early lives, and later experienced a surge in food availability, had lifespans comparable to (or even exceeding) squirrels who never had to experience hardship. 



This implies that the benefits of a food boom extend beyond simple nutrition. A possible explanation is that abundant food favorably alters the animal's surroundings by decreasing the need for competition and ultimately improving chances of survival.



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



"Our findings in red squirrels echo what we know about how early-life adversity can shorten adult lifespan in humans and other primates," said Petrullo. 



The main takeaway from this research is the concept of resilience. Similar to squirrels, individuals vary in their ability to cope with the lingering effects of early life trauma. The study proposes that later positive experiences are significant in determining the extent to which early stress affects an individual.



Squirrels are often subjects in laboratory studies due to their physiological similarities to humans. However, Lauren Petrullo emphasizes the value of studying these animals in their natural surroundings. This approach provides a clearer view of how stress, resilience, and environmental factors interact dynamically outside the controlled conditions of a lab.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-a-new-challenge-to-squirrel-trauma">Climate change: A new challenge to squirrel trauma</h2>



The survival strategies of red squirrels, particularly their reliance on periodic food booms, have developed to thrive within a specific climatic context. Unfortunately, the escalating issue of global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-are-squirrels-adapting-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming</a> poses a significant threat to these patterns. 



Rising temperatures have the potential to disrupt the timing and abundance of these crucial food booms. If these natural events become less frequent or less predictable, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-affects-ground-squirrels-in-unexpected-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">squirrels</a> that encounter significant challenges early in life may find themselves even more vulnerable to the adverse effects of their harsh environments. This could result in increased mortality rates and impact the overall population stability of the species.



"As food boom patterns begin to change, the pathways that connect early-life experiences and lifespan may change as well, potentially offering important insight into how animals may adapt to increasingly challenging environments," said Petrullo.



This research isn't just about squirrels and their trauma. It's a captivating story about survival, where even in harsh conditions, there's always hope. Just like a lucky food boom can alter a squirrel's fate, our own paths might hold life-changing opportunities. 



As scientists continue to study these resilient creatures, we may not only discover the secrets to their success, but also gain valuable insights to enhance our own well-being.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2023.2681" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a>.



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Early trauma cuts life short for squirrels, but this can be reversed

Life in the wilds of the Yukon is a relentless...

The mating strategies of squid are determined by their date of birth, according to a recent study from the <a href="https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/ja/index.html">University of Tokyo</a>. The research sheds new light on the reproductive tactics of male spear squids.



While humans might consider how their birth date influences personality or destiny, for these marine creatures, the timing of birth crucially influences their approach to mating.



"Alternative reproductive tactics (ARTs) are discontinuous phenotypes associated with reproduction, observed in males of many species," wrote the study authors. "Typically, large males adopt a tactic of competing with rivals for mating, while small males adopt a tactic of stealing fertilization opportunities from the large males."



"The ‘birth date hypothesis,' proposing that the date of birth influences the determination of each male's reproductive tactic, has been tested only in teleost fish to date."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-date-with-destiny">A date with destiny</h2>



Scientifically known as Heterololigo bleekeri, spear squids adopt one of two mating strategies. Males born earlier in the breeding season grow larger and become "consorts," aggressively competing with rivals to mate and protect females during egg-laying. 



On the other hand, males that hatch later in the season are typically smaller when they start reproducing and choose a "sneaker" tactic. These squids deposit their sperm on the outside of a female near where she lays her eggs - hoping to fertilize them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-unchanging-nature-of-squid-mating-tactics">The unchanging nature of squid mating tactics</h2>



The experts discovered that once a male squid's mating tactic is set by his birth date, it remains unchanged throughout his life. 



This pattern is so robust that even if an early-born squid could theoretically adopt the sneaker strategy during the early breeding season due to size, he would instead delay his maturation to grow sufficiently large to become a consort. 



"The presence of large immature males appears to support this (i.e. these immature males may have been delaying their maturation in a non-reproductive state as a tactic to become a successful consort later in the season)," noted the researchers.



This all-or-nothing approach to mating tactics is remarkably consistent, with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-created-a-transparent-squid-allowing-them-to-see-inside-while-its-still-alive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">squids</a> born around early July displaying a fifty-fifty chance of adopting either strategy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-and-commercial-ramifications">Ecological and commercial ramifications</h2>



Professor Yoko Iwata of the Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute at the University of Tokyo explained the significance of these findings. "The hatching date determines the whole life trajectory in this species. The difference in hatch date means that the squid experience different environmental conditions in early life, which may influence their growth trajectory." 



She further elaborated on the potential repercussions of environmental changes, such as ocean heat waves, on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/squid-have-unexpected-camouflage-ability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">squid</a> sizes and their mating tactics, which could significantly impact commercial fishing yields.



The research is notable as it extends the "birth date hypothesis" to aquatic invertebrates, suggesting its broader applicability across more animal species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New insights into squid growth rates</h2>



The team analyzed more than 350 specimens collected between 2020 and 2023, sourced directly or from commercial catches. The results challenge previous beliefs about the growth rates among different squid mating types.



Although environmental factors like water temperature are well-known to influence squid development, the researchers discovered surprisingly little variation in the early life growth rates of consorts and sneakers.



This discovery raises new questions about the factors influencing the growth and reproduction of male spear squids.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The significance of statoliths in squid research</h2>



Looking ahead, the researchers will turn their attention to the statolith, a key structure within the squid that documents daily growth in a manner akin to tree rings. 



By analyzing microelements within the statolith, experts can determine the age of squids as well as the environmental conditions they encountered during various life stages.



Professor Iwata expressed excitement about the potential implications of their findings. "I am interested in the evolution of animal survival and reproduction strategies, or life history; and also phenotypic plasticity, that is, how individuals respond to environmental changes. Spear squid provide an ideal model for studying the impact of environmental and ecological conditions on life history."



The research will further illuminate how early life conditions affect squid mating tactics and provide deeper insights into how other marine species adapt to environmental changes.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2024.0156" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a>.



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Squid mating tactics are determined by birth date

The mating strategies of squid are determined by their date...

As our planet warms and urban areas expand, the threat of mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue is escalating, reaching regions previously untouched by these dangerous illnesses. 



Now, with over half of the global population at risk, these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tick-mosquito-borne-disease-spreading/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diseases</a> have quickly become a critical concern worldwide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-global-spread-of-disease-vectors">The global spread of disease vectors</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-mosquitoes-find-tasty-humans-from-hundreds-of-meters-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mosquitoes</a>, the primary vectors for diseases like malaria and dengue, are finding suitable habitats far beyond their traditional tropical and subtropical locales. This expansion is due in part to longer and hotter seasons that allow mosquito larvae to survive and thrive in new areas. 



As these insects invade places like northern Europe, Asia, North America, and Australia, local populations face increased risks - often in areas where people lack immunity and public health systems are unprepared.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-from-the-front-lines-of-research">Insights from the front lines of research</h2>



At the upcoming ESCMID Global Congress in Barcelona, <a href="https://www.icrea.cat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ICREA</a> Professor Rachel Lowe will present her latest findings on this issue. 



Professor Lowe, who leads the global health resilience group at the Barcelona Supercomputing Center in Spain, will discuss the dramatic shifts in vector-borne disease patterns and the essential role of enhanced surveillance and early warning systems.



"Droughts and floods linked to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-great-for-mosquitoes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> can lead to greater transmission of the virus, with stored water providing additional mosquito breeding sites," noted Professor Lowe. Her research in the Caribbean shows that extreme climate conditions such as drought followed by excessive rainfall can significantly increase the likelihood of dengue outbreaks. 



These findings underscore the need for comprehensive assessments of vector-borne disease risks and preparedness for future outbreaks.



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



Dengue, which is spread by day-biting mosquitoes, has dramatically increased in spread and frequency. 



Since 2000, the most hospitable years for dengue transmission have facilitated the mosquito's invasion into 13 European countries, including France, Italy, and Spain, with local disease outbreaks reported as recently as 2023.



Furthermore, the number of global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dengue-fever-modified-mosquitoes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dengue</a> cases reported surged from 500,000 in 2000 to over five million in 2019. This makes dengue the most rapidly spreading mosquito-borne viral disease in the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-projecting-future-mosquito-disease-outbreaks">Projecting future mosquito disease outbreaks</h2>



The data suggests a daunting future if current trends continue. With <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-dengue-fever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a> and population growth proceeding unchecked, projections are increasingly alarming. They indicate that up to 4.7 billion additional people could be at risk of contracting malaria and dengue by the end of the century.



On the other hand, if global warming is limited to an ambitious goal of a 1°C increase, the number of people at risk could be significantly reduced, although it would still be substantial.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-el-nino-in-mosquito-disease-outbreaks">The role of el niño in mosquito disease outbreaks </h2>



El Niño events, which occur every 2-7 years, exacerbate these issues by creating hotter and wetter conditions that are ideal for mosquito breeding.



Professor Lowe highlights the direct link between these climatic fluctuations and disease outbreaks. Specifically, the Zika pandemic in Brazil, which emerged during an El Niño phase in 2015, was a direct result of climate conditions.



Furthermore, the current strength of El Niño suggests that these challenging conditions are likely to continue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-and-mosquito-borne-diseases">Climate change and mosquito-borne diseases</h2>



Professor Lowe stresses the urgency of addressing climate change to mitigate the spread of these diseases. "With climate change seeming so difficult to address, we can expect to see more cases and possibly deaths from diseases such as dengue and malaria across mainland Europe." 



Therefore, proactive measures, including robust surveillance systems and early interventions, are crucial to preventing outbreaks.



Researchers are now using advanced technologies to better anticipate disease outbreaks. These technologies include supercomputers, drones for identifying breeding sites, and community-based reporting systems to direct resources effectively.



"By analyzing weather patterns and gathering information from local communities and health officials, we are hoping to give communities time to prepare and protect themselves," said Professor Lowe. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-united-efforts-are-needed">United efforts are needed </h2>



Ultimately, the most effective strategy to reduce the risk of disease spread is to dramatically curb emissions and address the root causes of climate change.



As mosquito-borne diseases expand their reach, the need for global cooperation and innovative solutions has never been greater. 



Through informed research, proactive planning, and international collaboration, we can help to shield vulnerable populations from these escalating health threats.



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Mosquito-borne diseases are a growing threat in a warming world

As our planet warms and urban areas expand, the threat...

Researchers at the <a href="https://illinois.edu/">University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign</a> have recently reported that both public parks and private backyards play a vital role in supporting bird diversity in urban environments. 



"Greenspaces are increasingly valued for supporting biodiversity in urbanized landscapes. Previous research efforts have emphasized the importance of public land such as parks and nature preserves for biodiversity, yet private yards in residential neighborhoods also have great potential for species conservation," wrote the researchers. 



By studying two closely situated cities in Illinois with contrasting development histories and green space management, the experts discovered that these spaces are crucial for different bird species during varying seasons.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-bird-populations">Urban bird populations</h2>



The researchers monitored <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-populations-are-declining-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird populations</a> across 39 public parks and 41 private yards in Urbana and Champaign - cities with distinct urban characteristics and historical development. 



Urbana, with a history dating back to 1822, boasts extensive green spaces nurtured within an ancient hardwood forest. By contrast, Champaign was developed in the mid-1800s along a railway - with a focus on human recreation in its smaller parks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seasonal-variations-in-urban-bird-diversity">Seasonal variations in urban bird diversity </h2>



The analysis revealed significant seasonal shifts in bird <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-bird-diversity-puzzling-geographical-differences-identified/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diversity</a> between the two cities. During summer, Urbana's richer vegetation and cooler green spaces attracted a broader variety of birds, including species like the belted kingfisher and scarlet tanager. 



Conversely, in winter, Urbana's parks and yards continued to support diverse communities, including the winter wren and yellow-bellied sapsucker.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-urban-management-on-bird-diversity">Impact of urban management on bird diversity</h2>



Pollock pointed out the significant effects of active management in urban green spaces. "In places where there’s been active management to try to increase plant diversity and get some native plant cover back, it has had a big impact on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/as-urban-heat-continues-to-rise-birds-are-moving-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird</a> communities," he explained. 



Urbana's parks, with their focus on conservation and habitat restoration, were especially beneficial for rare and specialist bird species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-actions-for-residents">Practical actions for residents</h2>



The study also suggests practical ways for residents to enhance bird diversity in their own backyards. Carena Van Riper, a collaborator on the project, encouraged simple yet effective actions. 



"Perhaps this will allow people to see that there are small but important behaviors that will influence birds and increase bird diversity," noted Van Riper. 



Among the recommendations were installing bird feeders (especially during winter), planting native vegetation, and setting up bird baths.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-greenery-a-blueprint-for-biodiversity">Urban greenery: A blueprint for biodiversity </h2>



This comprehensive study underscores the interconnectedness of urban management and biodiversity. It offers a fresh perspective on how both public and private green spaces play integral roles in supporting urban wildlife. 



As cities continue to grow, understanding and implementing strategies that facilitate coexistence with nature becomes even more crucial. 



The insights from Urbana and Champaign can serve as a guide for other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-spaces-shape-bird-characteristics-in-urban-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban areas</a> aiming to enhance biodiversity and sustainability within their confines.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What influences urban bird diversity?</h2>



Urban bird diversity is influenced by a variety of factors, each playing a role in how well birds can adapt and thrive in city environments. Key factors include:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Green spaces</h3>



The presence and quality of green spaces such as parks, gardens, and green roofs are crucial. These areas provide essential resources like food, nesting sites, and safe havens from urban threats.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Water bodies</h3>



Rivers, lakes, and ponds in urban settings attract waterfowl and other species that rely on aquatic habitats for feeding and breeding.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Food availability</h3>



The accessibility of natural food sources, supplemented by bird feeders, significantly impacts which species are able to sustain populations in urban areas.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Building designs</h3>



The architecture of a city influences bird diversity. Features like reflective glass can cause bird collisions, whereas features like ledges and nooks might offer nesting spots.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Pollution</h3>



Air and noise pollution can deter birds from settling in urban areas. Pollution can also affect the health of the habitats birds rely on.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Human interaction</h3>



The level and nature of human activity and disturbance - ranging from benign presence to active conservation efforts - play a big role. Quieter, less disturbed areas tend to support more diverse bird populations.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Climate</h3>



Urban microclimates, influenced by the heat island effect where cities are warmer than surrounding areas, can affect which species are likely to thrive or decline in urban settings.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0169204624000598?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Landscape and Urban Planning</a>.



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How urban spaces support bird diversity

Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have recently reported...

Bioluminescence, the remarkable ability of organisms to generate light through chemical reactions, originated in marine invertebrates known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-corals-and-reefs-are-showing-surprising-resilience-as-global-waters-warm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">octocorals</a> at least 540 million years ago, according to a new study by researchers at the <a href="https://naturalhistory.si.edu/%C3%B9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History</a>. 



These findings significantly predate previous records, which dated the earliest emergence of this luminous trait in animals to about 267 million years ago in ostracods, a type of small marine crustacean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-history-of-bioluminescence-nbsp">Evolutionary history of bioluminescence&nbsp;</h2>



This groundbreaking research not only revises the timeline of bioluminescence's evolutionary history but also opens new pathways to understanding why this ability developed.&nbsp;



“Nobody quite knows why it first evolved in animals,” said senior author Andrea Quattrini, the museum’s curator of corals. This mystery underscores the complexity and significance of bioluminescence, which has independently evolved at least 94 times across various species and plays crucial roles in behaviors such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-are-losing-their-camouflage-under-modern-street-lights/%C3%B9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">camouflage</a>, courtship, communication, and hunting.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bioluminescent-group-of-corals-nbsp">Bioluminescent group of corals&nbsp;</h2>



The focus of the study was on octocorals - an ancient and frequently bioluminescent group that includes soft corals, sea fans, and sea pens. Unlike hard corals, octocorals consist of tiny colonial polyps that secrete a soft framework as their habitat.&nbsp;



These organisms often exhibit bioluminescence when disturbed, although the exact reasons for this trait remain somewhat elusive.



To determine the origins of bioluminescence in octocorals, the researchers, including lead author Danielle DeLeo, a former postdoctoral fellow and museum research associate, analyzed an evolutionary tree of octocorals developed by Quattrini and Catherine McFadden of <a href="https://www.hmc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvey Mudd College</a> in 2022. 



This tree, constructed using genetic data from 185 octocoral species, provided a detailed map of the evolutionary relationships within this group.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bioluminescence-in-the-ancestors-of-current-octocorals">Bioluminescence in the ancestors of current octocorals</h2>



By integrating two known-aged octocoral fossils into this group based on their physical features, the team was able to estimate the timeline of evolutionary splits within the octocoral lineage. They then mapped bioluminescent species onto this tree and applied statistical techniques for what is known as ancestral state reconstruction.&nbsp;



This analysis aimed to infer the likelihood of bioluminescence in the ancestors of current octocorals. “If we know these species of octocorals living today are bioluminescent, we can use statistics to infer whether their ancestors were highly probable to be bioluminescent or not,” Quattrini explained.



The results were striking: bioluminescence likely existed in the common ancestor of all octocorals around 540 million years ago, a significant advancement over the previous record held by bioluminescent ostracods. 



This early emergence suggests that bioluminescence has been a key trait contributing to the evolutionary success and long-term survival of octocorals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-bioluminescence-nbsp">Mystery of bioluminescence&nbsp;</h2>



The findings also raise further questions about the specific uses of bioluminescence in octocorals, prompting DeLeo and her colleagues to plan additional research. They are developing a genetic test to determine the presence of luciferase, an enzyme crucial for bioluminescence, in octocorals.&nbsp;



This tool will help identify which of the over 3,000 living octocoral species still possess this luminescent capability and which have lost it, potentially shedding light on the ecological factors influencing this trait.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-biological-trait-nbsp">Fascinating biological trait&nbsp;</h2>



Beyond its scientific implications, the study provides essential evolutionary context for the conservation and management of octocorals, which are increasingly threatened by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-study-provides-answers-to-how-coral-reefs-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> and human activities such as fishing, oil and gas extraction, and marine mineral mining. 



The research is part of the museum’s Ocean Science Center's mission to enhance global understanding of oceanic processes and challenges.



As this study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2023.2626" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Academy of Sciences</a>, redefines the ancient origins of bioluminescence, while highlighting the need for further exploration into why such a fascinating biological trait evolved and its role in the survival and adaptation of marine organisms over millions of years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advantages-of-bioluminescence-in-animals">Advantages of bioluminescence in animals</h2>



Bioluminescence offers several advantages in the natural world. Predominantly found in marine organisms, though also present in some terrestrial species, this fascinating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bioluminescent-gene-identified-that-makes-sea-pickles-glow/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological trait</a> serves various ecological roles. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-luring-prey-nbsp">Luring prey&nbsp;</h3>



For many deep-sea creatures, bioluminescence is crucial for attracting prey. The deep ocean is pitch dark, so any source of light is likely to draw attention. Organisms can use this to lure smaller creatures close enough to capture them.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-defense-mechanism-nbsp">Defense mechanism&nbsp;</h3>



Moreover, bioluminescence is used for defense. Some species emit light to startle or distract <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/top-marine-predators-may-suffer-massive-habitat-loss-by-2100/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators</a>, giving them a chance to escape. Others may use bioluminescence to camouflage themselves, blending in with light filtering down from the surface to erase their silhouette and confuse predators from below.



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



In addition to predation and defense, bioluminescence plays a role in reproduction. Certain species emit specific light patterns to attract mates, ensuring that they can find one another in the vast and dark depths of the oceans.



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



The light can also serve as a form of communication among members of the same species, helping them signal their location, maintain group cohesion, or even warn others of dangers.



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Bioluminescence emerged in animals 540 million years ago

Bioluminescence, the remarkable ability of organisms to generate light through...

Did you know you can read a chicken's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-can-now-decipher-the-emotional-states-of-chickens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotions</a>? It turns out our feathered friends have a surprising way of showing their feelings - their faces blush a deeper red when they're distressed. 



A revolutionary study has confirmed this, opening up new ways to understand how chickens feel and build better relationships with them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-do-chickens-express-their-emotions">How do chickens express their emotions?</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chicken-psychology-birds-smart-complex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chickens</a>, like many animals, experience a spectrum of emotions ranging from joy and excitement to frustration and fear. However, their ways of expressing these emotions differ from ours. They don't rely on facial expressions like smiling or frowning to communicate how they feel.



Instead, changes in chickens' facial coloration offer clues about their inner state. The skin around their faces, including the comb and wattle, is particularly sensitive. These areas maintain a lighter red hue when chickens are relaxed and content. 



When chickens experience negative emotions, the blood flow to these areas increases significantly. This causes a visible change as their faces become flushed with a much brighter scarlet shade.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-do-chickens-blush">Why do chickens blush?</h2>



Researchers from <a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INRAE</a> (France's National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food, and Environment) embarked on a detailed investigation to decipher how a chicken's blush reveals its emotions. They focused on Sussex hens, a popular breed of laying chickens. 



To ensure accuracy, the research team employed advanced camera technology and specialized software. This allowed them to precisely measure and analyze subtle changes in facial redness.



The researchers exposed hens to various stimuli and carefully documented the changes in coloration. When presented with appetizing feed such as mealworms, the hens did get a bit red but their entire face became scarlet red during negative experiences such as capture. This demonstrated a clear connection between the hens' emotional state and the intensity of their flushing.



Intriguingly, the study also shed light on how chickens perceive humans. Hens who had been gradually accustomed to the presence of a friendly researcher over time showed a reduced stress response. 



This was evident in their calmer demeanor and the less intense flushing of their faces in the researcher's presence. In comparison, hens without this positive exposure exhibited a more pronounced stress response when near humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotions-in-chickens-and-humans">Emotions in chickens and humans</h2>



The ability to accurately interpret chicken emotions provides invaluable insights for farmers, animal scientists, and veterinarians. Using this knowledge, they can tailor environments and care practices to promote positive emotional states in chickens. 



This includes minimizing stressful situations, providing opportunities for enrichment, and fostering a sense of security. Such changes in animal management can lead to improvements in overall chicken well-being and health.



While chickens and humans may seem worlds apart, this study highlights a shared emotional language. By learning to recognize the subtle cues chickens use to express their feelings, we can develop greater empathy and understanding towards them. 



This awareness can promote more respectful and compassionate interactions, potentially transforming our relationship with these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zebra-finches-use-both-calls-and-vision-to-coordinate-flight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> even in backyard settings or small-scale farming.



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



The study serves as a springboard for numerous exciting avenues of future research. Scientists are keen to delve deeper into the diverse ways chickens might communicate their emotions.



Beyond facial flushing, changes in the position or movement of head feathers could hold clues to a chicken's emotional state. For instance, during moments of excitement, a hen might rapidly raise and lower her head feathers. 



Conversely, fear or stress might be signaled by flattened or ruffled feathers. Careful observation and analysis are needed to decode this potential new emotional language.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-tech-uses-chicken-feathers-to-generate-clean-electricity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chickens</a> live within complex social structures, often with clear dominance relationships. Researchers want to understand how emotional signals play a role in these interactions. 



For example, a dominant hen might display specific feather patterns or facial coloration changes to assert her position, while a subordinate hen might exhibit different signals to indicate submission. Understanding these nuances could unlock secrets about chicken communication and social dynamics.



The next time you see a chicken, take a good look at its face. Is it pale, relaxed, and content? Or is it flushed, indicating the chicken might be feeling stressed or worried?



Remember, our awareness and empathy can make all the difference in the lives of animals around us, even backyard chickens.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168159124001163?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Applied Animal Behaviour Science</a>.



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Chickens' faces change color depending on their emotions

Did you know you can read a chicken's emotions? It...

In the Solomon Islands, a team of scientists led by the <a href="https://www.unimelb.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Melbourne</a> has identified a swift and unusual type of evolutionary change among local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolutionary-secrets-how-bat-teeth-adapted-to-their-diverse-diets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bat</a> populations. The experts suggest that two distinct groups of leaf-nosed bats, initially thought to be different species due to their significant size differences, are actually proof of a rare case of parallel evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-sizes-similar-dna">Different sizes, similar DNA</h2>



Although these two species share the same environment, they have independently developed similar traits. The smaller species, Hipposideros diadema, is widespread, inhabiting not only the Solomon Islands but also regions in Southeast Asia, Papua New Guinea, and northern Australia. In contrast, the larger species, named Hipposideros dinops or the Fierce Leaf-Nosed Bat in 1905, is exclusive to the Solomon Islands.



“Although they are very different sizes, the bats’ DNA is very similar. They use very different sonar frequencies, they probably eat different food, and even when they live in the same cave together they don’t interbreed. That is why no one has ever really questioned whether they were different species,” explained lead author Tyrone Lavery, a mammalogist at the University of Melbourne.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-evolution-of-larger-bodied-bats">Rapid evolution of larger-bodied bats</h2>



According to the scientists, despite their independent origins, each group of larger bats has evolved to look the same, averaging more than double the weight of the small bat. “Our research suggests the rapid and repeated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vampire-bats-live-blood/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a> of larger bodied bats from smaller bats, each happening independently on separate islands,” said Lavery.



“When we created family trees using the bats’ DNA, we found that what we thought was just one species of large bat in the Solomon Islands was actually a case where bigger bats had evolved from the smaller species multiple times across different islands.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parallel-bat-evolution-nbsp">Parallel bat evolution&nbsp;</h2>



This phenomenon of parallel evolution, where separated populations of the same species evolve similar traits in similar environments, is exceedingly rare and seldomly observed in real-time, especially among mammals.&nbsp;



The experts suggest that these larger bats might be evolving to exploit food sources not accessible to their smaller counterparts, although they are theoretically capable of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/interbreeding-survival-early-elephants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interbreeding</a>.



“Something very strong is pushing or selecting for these big bats, and it is strong enough for it to happen multiple times on different islands. We think these larger bats might be evolving to take advantage of prey that the smaller bats aren’t eating. Although they could probably interbreed, they don’t for some reason,” Lavery said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diverse-dietary-preferences-nbsp">Diverse dietary preferences&nbsp;</h2>



The differences in sonar frequencies between the groups suggest diverse dietary preferences, with the larger bats likely targeting bigger prey such as larger insects or even <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-frog-day-addressing-environmental-threats-to-frogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frogs</a>. 



The study, which included measuring 103 bat specimens from various international museums, confirmed no overlap in body size between the two groups, reinforcing their distinct developments despite genetic similarities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-islands-and-bat-evolution">Islands and bat evolution</h2>



According to Lavery, this pattern of parallel evolution in leaf-nosed bats has been observed in the Solomon Islands on Guadalcanal and in the Western Province, but more research is needed to see if the same pattern occurs on other islands.&nbsp;



“We may think of evolution as a very slow process, but it can happen rapidly when the conditions are right and two groups are separated and stop interbreeding. They can begin to evolve on different pathways,” he said.



“Islands are famous for helping us to observe and understand the processes for how species evolve in real time. They’re also places that are very vulnerable to the types of disturbance that humans create. It’s important that we look after these incredible landscapes in Solomon Islands before we lose these stories even before we find them,” he concluded.



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



Bats represent a remarkable example of mammalian evolution, having developed unique adaptations that allow them to thrive across diverse environments globally. The evolution of bats is particularly notable for their development of flight and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bats-share-social-information-through-echolocation-calls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">echolocation</a>, which have played crucial roles in their ability to occupy ecological niches that other mammals cannot.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-bats">Early bats</h3>



The fossil record suggests that bats first appeared at least 50 million years ago during the Eocene epoch. These early bats already possessed the wing structures necessary for flight, indicating that their ability to fly evolved quite rapidly in evolutionary terms.&nbsp;



This quick adaptation to flight is believed to have significantly contributed to their global spread and diversification.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-echolocation">Echolocation</h3>



Echolocation, the ability to navigate and find food using sound waves, is another key evolutionary development in bats, although it is not universal among all bat species.&nbsp;



Echolocation likely developed after flight, with different bat species evolving this ability independently. This suggests a strong evolutionary pressure to optimize feeding strategies in dark environments, like night skies or dense forests.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-convergent-evolution">Convergent evolution</h3>



Molecular studies have provided insights into bat phylogeny, showing that bats are divided into two main suborders: the largely <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-fruit-bats-suffer-no-consequences-from-their-high-sugar-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fruit-eating</a> megabats and the echolocating microbats. 



Interestingly, some megabats have also developed echolocation, albeit through different mechanisms than microbats, showcasing convergent evolution - where different species independently evolve similar traits.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-morphological-changes-and-diet">Morphological changes and diet</h3>



Bats have also adapted to a wide range of dietary preferences, from insects and fruit to vertebrates and blood, each adaptation allowing bats to exploit new or underserved ecological niches. 



These dietary adaptations are accompanied by morphological changes, such as tooth and jaw structure, digestive enzymes, and flight adaptations, enabling them to specialize and thrive.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/evolut/qpae039" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Evolution</a>.



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Rare type of parallel evolution found in island bats

In the Solomon Islands, a team of scientists led by...

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids, complex and toxic compounds produced by various plant species, have historically posed significant risks to cattle due to their lethal nature. Despite their toxicity and the clear signals from plants that contain these alkaloids discouraging consumption, bella <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moths-may-struggle-to-move-in-response-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moths</a> (Utetheisa ornatrix) have uniquely adapted to not only consume these substances but also utilize them as a defense mechanism and a means to attract mates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-adaptations-of-bella-moths-nbsp">Genetic adaptations of bella moths&nbsp;</h2>



In a new study led by the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Museum of Natural History</a>, scientists have explored the genetic adaptations that allow bella moths to thrive on a diet rich in these dangerous compounds.&nbsp;



The research, which involved sequencing the bella moth genome and analyzing genetic data from over 150 museum specimens, some over a century old, aimed to discover the evolutionary origins of bella moths and their close relatives, as well as the development of their distinctive <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/butterflies-wing-patterns-colors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wing patterns</a>.



“We’ve managed to show that you can use museum specimens to answer genetic questions that normally require complicated laboratory techniques,” explained study co-author Andrei Sourakov, collections coordinator at the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/mcguire/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity</a>. Sourakov, who has dedicated 15 years to studying bella moths, emphasized the significance of genome sequencing in advancing our understanding of these resilient insects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-survival-strategy-of-bella-moths">Unique survival strategy of bella moths</h2>



The findings reveal that bella moths, which inhabit regions across eastern North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, exhibit a unique survival strategy by being conspicuously visible during the day instead of hiding from predators.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deterring-predators-nbsp">Deterring predators&nbsp;</h3>



Their vibrant wing colors serve as a warning about their toxicity, effectively deterring potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predators-help-prevent-biodiversity-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators</a> such as spiders and birds.



“Banana spiders will cut them out of their webs,” Sourakov said, adding that wolf spiders and birds will avoid them. “When caught, they produce foaming liquid that tastes bad made almost entirely out of alkaloids.”



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-attracting-mates">Attracting mates</h3>



This defense mechanism is further found during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-moths-use-an-aphrodisiac-during-mating-to-feel-macho/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mating</a>, where females emit a plume of alkaloid-rich aerosols to attract males.&nbsp;



The mating process involves the male moth transferring not only sperm but additional alkaloids to the female, which she uses to protect her eggs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-evolutionary-process-nbsp">Complex evolutionary process&nbsp;</h2>



The study not only sheds light on the unique dietary adaptations of bella moths but also underscores the broader implications of their survival tactics. The discovery that bella moths possess multiple copies of the gene responsible for their alkaloid detoxification enzyme suggests a complex evolutionary process that may have involved gene duplication, a phenomenon observed in various other species as well.



According to the researchers, the interaction with pyrrolizidine alkaloids could be a key factor behind the bella moth’s unusually long lifespan, as the stress imposed by these toxins may activate biological mechanisms that contribute to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/certain-stress-boost-longevity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">longevity</a>.



“Certain types of stress on biological systems result in a longer lifespan. It could be that the interaction bella moths have with alkaloids is not only the reason why it makes sense for them to live long lives, but also one of the mechanisms behind it,” Sourakov speculated.



This study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2319726121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>, both deepens our understanding of the complex interplay between bella moths and their toxic environment and opens new avenues for research into how other species adapt to and exploit toxic substances within their ecosystems.



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



Bella moths are strikingly colored moths found primarily in the Americas. Their vibrant wings are a mix of pink, white, and yellow hues with black spots, serving as a warning to predators about their toxicity. This toxicity is derived from their larval diet of plants in the Crotalaria genus, which contain poisonous alkaloids that the larvae retain into adulthood.



The bella moth's life cycle is closely intertwined with its host plants. The female moth lays eggs on the underside of leaves, which hatch into larvae that feed on the toxic leaves, gaining their own chemical defenses against predators. This adaptation showcases a fascinating example of coevolution between the bella moth and the plants it depends on.



In addition to their ecological role, bella moths contribute to their ecosystem by participating in pollination. Their bright coloring not only warns predators but also attracts the attention of researchers and nature enthusiasts, making them a subject of interest in studies of evolutionary biology and ecology.



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Some moths use lethal toxins to deter predators and attract mates

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids, complex and toxic compounds produced by various plant...

<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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