<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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;</p>



<p>“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>).</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. </p>



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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"><em>Dendroolithidae</em></a>, which is known for highly porous shells.</p>



<p>Those Yunyang eggs have been assigned to <em>Placoolithus tumiaolingensis</em> 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 <em>dendroolithid</em> eggs.</p>



<p>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. </p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<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"><em>Egg clutch sampled for chronological studies. Click image to enlarge. Credit Dr. Bi Zhao</em></figcaption></figure>



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



<p>Marine records indicate the Late Cretaceous did not stay uniformly hot. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>Inland Asia would have felt those shifts in precipitation, seasonality, and vegetation.</p>



<p>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. </p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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. </p>



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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. </p>



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



<p>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"><em>Frontiers in Earth Science</em></a>.</p>



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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...

<p>Picture a time before sharks dominated the seas, when colossal creatures, with bones that hinted at their enormity, made even the largest whales seem insignificant. These were the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-marine-ichthyosaur-fossils-found-high-in-the-alps/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ichthyosaurs</a>, sleek and powerful marine reptiles that ruled the prehistoric oceans.</p>



<p>For centuries, paleontologists have puzzled over mysterious bone fragments that hint at ichthyosaurs of mind-boggling size. Now, new research sheds light on these enigmatic giants, revealing creatures that could rival even the mighty blue whale.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysterious-bones-in-europe">Mysterious bones in Europe</h2>



<p>Since the 1800s, scientists have grappled with the origin of enormous fossilized bones found in various locations across Europe. Found embedded in ancient ocean sediments, these bones have sparked a long-standing debate. </p>



<p>At first, some believed they belonged to an extinct lineage of crocodile-like beasts roaming the prehistoric coasts. Others thought these relics were more likely from long-necked dinosaurs or even a completely unknown group of colossal lizards.</p>



<p>The puzzle deepened as similar fragments were discovered across locations as varied as the cliffs of Southern England and the hills of central France. But a recent study from the <a href="https://www.uni-bonn.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bonn</a> may finally put these theories to rest.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-osteohistology">Osteohistology</h2>



<p>The researchers delved into the very structure of these fossilized bones, turning to a field known as osteohistology. This branch of science examines the microscopic details and organization of bone tissue in different species. </p>



<p>Think of it this way: the internal patterns present in bone provide clues to the identity and lifestyle of the creature, much like the microscopic composition of a material can help investigators understand its origins.</p>



<p>Upon analyzing the mysterious samples, the researchers found something extraordinary. Long strands of a protein called collagen woven in a unique pattern, a structure that did not match any known land-dwelling animal. </p>



<p>The team took a systematic approach, carefully comparing bone samples from various sites across Europe. They discovered that the collagen structure and other microscopic details were remarkably similar in these scattered bones. </p>



<p>This similarity strongly suggested that the bones, despite their wide geographic distribution, originated from the same type of creature.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ichthyosaurs-bones-of-unbelievable-size">Ichthyosaurs bones of unbelievable size</h2>



<p>Armed with this knowledge, the researchers cross-referenced their discoveries with known fossils of giant ichthyosaurs. They concluded that the enigmatic bones likely belonged to massive members of this marine reptile family. Just how massive?</p>



<p>They could possibly have reached a length of 25 to 30 meters - a similar size to the modern blue whale, according to study lead author Marcello Perillo. </p>



<p>It seems the long-standing theories of those championing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ichthyosaur-graveyard-may-be-an-ancient-birthing-ground/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ichthyosaur</a> hypothesis may have been correct. These scattered bone fragments might just be the remains of some of the largest creatures ever to grace the Earth’s oceans. </p>



<p>“However, this number is only an estimate and far from certain – until, that is, we find more complete fossil remains,” said Perillo.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-insights-from-ichthyosaurs-bones">Further insights from Ichthyosaurs bones</h2>



<p>The bone structure revealed more than just size. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ichthyosaurs-had-specialized-diets-to-peacefully-coexist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ichthyosaurs</a> had a unique adaptation – protein fibers woven through their bones much like carbon-fiber composites used in modern engineering. This implies immense strength and likely allowed these giants to grow rapidly, reaching their tremendous size.</p>



<p>But what did such massive predators eat? Ancient marine reptiles would have been prime contenders, alongside prehistoric versions of squid and large fish. These colossal ichthyosaurs must have been formidable hunters, their streamlined bodies slicing through the water in pursuit of their unfortunate prey.</p>



<p>"These huge jaws would have been exposed to strong shearing forces even when the animal was eating normally," said Perillo. Imagine the bone-crushing power as these creatures clamped down on their meals. </p>



<p>Perhaps, like modern-day killer whales, they even rammed their prey to stun or kill before feeding. Those protein-reinforced bones would have been indispensable when taking down large, struggling creatures, or wrestling with rival ichthyosaurs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ichthyosaurs-bones-and-glimpse-of-sea-dragons">Ichthyosaurs bones and glimpse of sea dragons </h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ichthyosaurs-warm-blooded/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ichthyosaurs</a> first appeared over 250 million years ago. Resembling a cross between a dolphin and a shark, these predators dominated the oceans, their sharp teeth and powerful bodies perfectly adapted for their watery domain. </p>



<p>For over 150 million years they flourished in seas across the globe. Yet, for reasons still debated, the ichthyosaurs eventually vanished – a testament to the ever-changing nature of our planet.</p>



<p>The colossal bone fragments tantalize us with a glimpse of these "sea dragons" – of a world where the oceans were a battleground of giants. </p>



<p>They remind us that the Earth holds countless mysteries, and creatures far beyond our wildest imagination once roamed freely.</p>



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



<p>As discussed above, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ichthyosaur-gave-birth-live-young/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ichthyosaurs</a> roamed the oceans during the Mesozoic era, approximately between 250 million and 90 million years ago. </p>



<p>These creatures, often likened to dolphins in appearance due to their streamlined bodies and elongated snouts, present a remarkable example of convergent evolution, where unrelated species evolve similar traits. Here's more on these ancient mariners:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Evolution and diversity</h3>



<ul>
<li>Ichthyosaurs first appeared in the early Triassic period and quickly diversified into a variety of forms and sizes, some measuring up to 60 feet in length. Their evolution showcases a transition from terrestrial to fully aquatic lifeforms, paralleling the evolutionary path of modern whales.</li>



<li>Their body shapes varied significantly, from robust, slow-moving individuals to slender, fast-swimming forms, indicating a wide range of ecological niches.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Anatomy and physiology</h3>



<ul>
<li>These reptiles had large eyes, suggesting they were visual predators capable of seeing in dim light, possibly hinting at deep diving capabilities or a partially nocturnal lifestyle.</li>



<li>They possessed vertical, fish-like tails and fins, unlike the horizontal tail flukes of modern cetaceans, a feature that likely aided in their propulsion through ancient seas.</li>



<li>Some species had very long, toothy snouts, perfect for snapping up small fish and squid, while others had broader, toothless mouths, suggesting a diet possibly consisting of soft-bodied cephalopods.</li>
</ul>



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



<ul>
<li>Ichthyosaurs were viviparous, meaning they gave birth to live young rather than laying eggs. This reproductive strategy is advantageous for aquatic life, as it eliminates the need to return to land to lay eggs.</li>



<li>Fossil evidence, including rare finds of pregnant females with embryos, indicates that ichthyosaurs likely had a complex reproductive behavior, caring for their young in the early stages of life.</li>
</ul>



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



<ul>
<li>The reasons behind the extinction of ichthyosaurs are still a topic of research and debate. It is believed that a combination of factors, including climate change, decreased food availability, and competition with other marine reptiles and emerging fish species, contributed to their decline.</li>



<li>Unlike dinosaurs, which perished in the mass extinction event at the end of the Cretaceous period, ichthyosaurs disappeared in the Late Cretaceous, about 90 million years ago, well before the asteroid impact that ended the era of the dinosaurs.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The legacy of Ichthyosaurs beyond fossil bones</h3>



<ul>
<li>Ichthyosaurs play a crucial role in understanding the history of marine life on Earth. Their fossils, distributed globally, provide insights into the Mesozoic marine ecosystems and the evolutionary history of reptiles.</li>



<li>Studies on ichthyosaurs contribute to our knowledge of adaptation, survival strategies, and the impact of environmental changes on marine species.</li>
</ul>



<p>Their intriguing evolution from land-dwellers back to the sea, remarkable adaptations for marine life, and the mystery surrounding their extinction continue to captivate scientists and the public alike. Ichthyosaurs remain emblematic of the dynamic, ever-changing nature of life on Earth.</p>



<p>The results are published in the journal&nbsp;<em><a href="https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.17060" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PeerJ</a></em>.</p>



<p>Image Credit: © Marcello Perillo / University of Bonn</p>



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Mysterious 150-year-old bones identified as ichthyosaur jaws

Picture a time before sharks dominated the seas, when colossal...

<p>Have you ever wondered how a swirling <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-three-fish-make-a-school-study-offers-surprising-insights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">school of fish</a> can move with such grace and coordination? What if someone told you that they're actively working to become invisible...or at least invisible to the ears of predators? New research suggests that fish schooling together can drastically reduce the sound they make. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fish-schools-without-sound">Fish schools without sound</h2>



<p>"It’s widely known that swimming in groups provides fish with added protection from predators, but we questioned whether it also contributes to reducing their noise,” said senior author Rajat Mittal, a researcher at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins University</a>. </p>



<p>Think about it – a school of fish should be noisier than a single fish, right? Yet, something fascinating is happening beneath the waves. It seems our intuition might be leading us astray.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fish-schools-are-quieter-than-a-whisper">Fish schools are quieter than a whisper</h2>



<p>Mittal and his team at built a sophisticated 3D model of mackerel to crack the code behind silent schools. They experimented with the number of fish, swimming formations, proximity, and even how synchronized their movements were. The results were astonishing.</p>



<p>A school of seven fish, when swimming with just the right coordination, could effectively sound like a single fish to a predator like a shark. </p>



<p>"This could have significant implications for prey fish,” noted Mittal. After all, becoming harder to detect means a better chance of survival in the unforgiving underwater world.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sound-waves-and-stealthy-swimmers">Sound waves and stealthy swimmers</h2>



<p>The secret to this underwater stealth mission lies in how the fish move their tail fins. "Sound is a wave," explained Mittal. “Two waves can either add up if they are exactly in phase or they can cancel each other if they are exactly out of phase."</p>



<p>The researchers were surprised to discover that even two fish swimming together can make a difference. Imagine the advantage when hundreds or even thousands of fish are involved. The team believes the noise reduction likely plateaus as the school gets significantly larger, but the benefits are clear. </p>



<p>"Simply being together and swimming in any manner contributes to reducing the sound signature,” Mittal said. “No coordination between the fish is required.”</p>



<p>Sound travels in waves, which have alternating regions of high and low pressure. These pressure fluctuations are what our ears (or a predator's ears) pick up as sound.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uneven-fish-movements">Uneven fish movements</h2>



<p>When two sound waves meet, they can interact in different ways. If the high-pressure region of one wave overlaps with the low-pressure region of another wave (out of phase), they effectively cancel each other out, reducing the overall sound.</p>



<p>When fish in a school alternate their tail flaps, they create tiny pressure waves that interact with the pressure waves caused by other fish. With the right timing, a significant portion of this sound can be canceled out, making the school as a whole much quieter.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fish-school-benefits-beyond-minimal-noise">Fish school benefits beyond minimal noise</h2>



<p>The sound reduction isn't the only surprising benefit <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/swimming-schools-fish-neighbors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">schools of fish</a> receive. Ji Zhou and his team discovered an additional advantage to the precisely timed tail fin movements. "We find that reduction in flow-generated noise does not have to come at the expense of performance," Zhou explained.</p>



<p>As fish move through water, they experience drag, a force that opposes their movement. This drag is partly caused by the friction between the fish's body and the water, and partly by the way water flows around the fish's fins and body.</p>



<p>When fish in a school move their fins in a coordinated way, they can create smoother water flow around each other's bodies. This smoother flow reduces drag, allowing the fish to swim with less effort and expend less energy.</p>



<p>Remarkably, the same tail fin movements that create the sound-canceling effect also contribute to this drag reduction. Essentially, by swimming together with precise timing, the fish achieve both stealth and increased efficiency.</p>



<p>This discovery highlights the incredible adaptations fish have developed to survive in their environment. Schools benefit from a double advantage: becoming quieter to evade predators while simultaneously using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-swim-in-schools-to-save-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">less energy</a> to travel further or maneuver more quickly. It's a testament to the power of natural selection and the elegance of biological design.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-underwater-vehicles-inspired-from-fish-school">Underwater vehicles inspired from fish school</h2>



<p>This discovery extends far beyond simply understanding the wonders of the natural world. By studying the remarkable way fish schools achieve quiet movement and efficient swimming, researchers believe we can unlock valuable insights that can be applied to human technology. This field of study, known as biomimicry, essentially involves mimicking nature's ingenious solutions to solve human challenges.</p>



<p>In this case, the research on fish <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-use-collective-behavior-to-reduce-energy-costs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">schools</a> has the potential to revolutionize the design and operation of underwater vehicles, including submarines and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). Here are some potential applications:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quieter-submarines">Quieter submarines</h3>



<p>Traditional submarines rely on powerful propellers that generate significant noise. This noise can disrupt marine life and limit a submarine's ability to operate undetected. </p>



<p>By understanding how fish schools achieve noise reduction, engineers could develop quieter propulsion systems for submarines, allowing for more discreet underwater exploration and potentially reducing the impact on marine ecosystems.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-efficient-auvs">More efficient AUVs</h3>



<p>AUVs are increasingly used for various tasks, from oceanographic research to underwater search and rescue. However, battery life remains a limiting factor for these vehicles. </p>



<p>By mimicking the way fish schools reduce drag through synchronized movements, engineers could potentially design AUVs that operate more efficiently, requiring less energy and extending their operational range.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-benefits-of-knowing-fish-school-sounds">Potential benefits of knowing fish school sounds</h2>



<p>The potential benefits of this research are vast.:</p>



<ul>
<li>Exploring the depths discreetly:&nbsp;Quieter submarines could allow scientists to study deep-sea environments and marine life with minimal disruption. This could lead to significant advancements in our understanding of these fragile ecosystems.</li>



<li>Minimizing environmental impact:&nbsp;Reduced noise from underwater vehicles could help protect marine animals that rely on sound for communication and navigation. This could be particularly important for species like whales and dolphins that are known to be sensitive to underwater noise pollution.</li>



<li>Extending AUV capabilities:&nbsp;More efficient AUVs could be deployed for longer periods and cover wider areas, expanding our ability to conduct oceanographic research, monitor marine resources, and perform underwater inspections.</li>
</ul>



<p>The research on fish schools offers a glimpse into the power of biomimicry. By studying nature's ingenious solutions, we can develop new technologies that are not only more effective but also more sustainable and environmentally friendly. </p>



<p>This discovery highlights the importance of fundamental scientific research and the potential for groundbreaking innovation when we take inspiration from the natural world.</p>



<p>The next time you see a school of fish, remember they're not just mesmerizing, they're masters of stealth and efficiency. Nature, as always, continues to surprise and inspire with its brilliant designs.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em>Bioinspiration &amp; Biomimetics</em>.</p>



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In schools, fish have mastered the skill of moving without sound

Have you ever wondered how a swirling school of fish...

<p>A new study by the <a href="https://www.unimelb.edu.au/">University of Melbourne</a> and Politecnico di Torino reveals the damaging impact of noise pollution on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/whales-face-increasing-dangers-along-their-migration-routes/">whale migration</a>. </p>



<p>The research shows that noise pollution created by shipping, sonar, seismic exploration (used for resource extraction), and offshore construction are disrupting and confusing whales. This causes significant delays in their migrations and can even lead them off course.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-communication-in-whales">Communication in whales</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baleen-whales-cannot-escape-human-noise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Whales communicate</a> using a fascinating array of sounds, including moans, clicks, and songs. These sounds vary widely among different species and can serve many purposes, such as navigating through dark or murky waters, finding food, attracting mates, and maintaining social connections within their pods.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-songs-and-calls">Songs and calls</h3>



<p>Some whale species, like the humpback whale, are known for their complex songs, which can last for hours and are believed to play a role in mating rituals and asserting dominance. Each song consists of sequences of moans, howls, cries, and other vocalizations, which can travel vast distances underwater.</p>



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



<p>Toothed whales, including dolphins and sperm whales, use echolocation to navigate and hunt for food. They emit a series of high-frequency clicks that bounce off objects and return as echoes, allowing the whale to determine the location, size, and even the internal structure of objects.</p>



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



<p>Whales also make a variety of other sounds to communicate with each other, such as grunts, barks, and groans. These sounds are essential for maintaining social bonds, coordinating activities among group members, and conveying information about their environment or emotional state.</p>



<p>The ability to produce and perceive these sounds is crucial for whales' survival, making them highly sensitive to noise pollution in the oceans, which can interfere with their communication.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-noise-pollution-near-whales">Noise pollution near whales</h2>



<p>"[The] simulation study suggests that the current soundscape for whales – compared to pre-industrial conditions – might be causing a three-to-four-day delay in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/whales-face-increasing-dangers-along-their-migration-routes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration</a> arrivals, representing an extra 20 percent in travel time," said study co-author Dr. Stuart Johnston.</p>



<p>Even more concerning, the simulation revealed that if noise levels continue to rise, some whales may never even reach their destinations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-noise-pollution-impacts-whales">How noise pollution impacts whales</h2>



<p>Noise pollution is impacting whale migration in the following ways:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decreased-communication-range">Decreased communication range</h3>



<p>Whales sing and call to each other over vast distances. Noise pollution reduces this range, making it harder for them to find partners, stay together in groups, and avoid dangers.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-partners">Finding Partners</h4>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-activity-marine-noise-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Whales</a> rely on their complex songs and calls to attract mates over long distances. Noise pollution shrinks the area where those songs can be heard, making it harder for potential partners to connect. This can limit breeding opportunities and reduce the genetic diversity of future generations.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-staying-together">Staying together</h4>



<p>Pods, or social groups of whales, use sound to stay coordinated and organized. Noise interference limits their ability to communicate effectively for hunting, navigation, and protection from predators.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-avoiding-dangers">Avoiding dangers</h4>



<p>From loud ships to other threats, whales communicate warnings and alerts. Reduced communication range means they may not hear critical alarm calls in time, leading to collisions, pod separation, or stranding.</p>



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



<p>Loud, persistent noise causes whales stress. Chronic stress can affect their health and make them more susceptible to beaching or stranding.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physiological-impact">Physiological impact</h4>



<p>When exposed to loud or chronic noise, whales experience a stress response that releases stress hormones. Over time, this constant stress can weaken their immune systems, impact their ability to reproduce, and put them at higher risk for disease.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behavioral-changes-nbsp">Behavioral changes&nbsp;</h4>



<p>Stress from noise can make it difficult for whales to rest, find food, and perform vital behaviors. This disruption can lead to altered migration patterns or even force them to abandon important habitats.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beaching-and-stranding">Beaching and stranding</h4>



<p>While the direct link between noise and strandings is complex, chronic stress and disorientation caused by noise pollution are considered contributing factors that can put <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blue-whales-continue-their-battle-for-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a> at an increased risk of becoming beached or stranded.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-noise-pollution-masks-whales-natural-cues">Noise pollution masks whales natural cues</h3>



<p>Many whales use sounds from their environment to understand their surroundings and navigate. Noise makes these signals harder to hear – affecting their ability to chart their migration routes.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-landmarks">Ocean landmarks</h4>



<p>Natural sounds like crashing waves, distant storms, and the breaking of icebergs help whales create a mental map of the ocean. Noise pollution masks these vital acoustic cues, making it far more difficult for them to determine their location and direction.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-food-sources">Finding food sources</h4>



<p>Some whales rely on echolocation to hunt or detect schools of fish. Noise pollution can disrupt this intricate process, limiting their ability to secure enough food to survive, particularly for long migrations where they need to build energy stores.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-veering-off-course">Veering off course</h2>



<p>What does it actually mean for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-whales-contribute-to-carbon-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a> when their environment is too noisy? "Whales will avoid uncomfortable environments when there is significant noise, and this could lead to increased journey time or even failure to arrive," explained Dr. Johnston.</p>



<p>Whales migrate vast distances between feeding grounds and warm waters where they have their calves. They're on a tight schedule. Increased journey time means less time to reproduce, feed, and nurture young – putting their populations in danger.</p>



<p>For many whale species, reproduction is tied to specific locations and times of year. Delayed migration caused by noise pollution can lead them to arrive at breeding grounds outside the optimal window. This reduces their chances of encountering potential mates and successfully reproducing.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-migration-demands-a-lot-of-energy">Migration demands a lot of energy</h2>



<p>Furthermore, whale migrations are incredibly demanding, requiring whales to build up significant energy reserves beforehand. Extra travel time due to noise disrupts this crucial preparation phase. Whales may arrive at feeding grounds weakened and struggle to find enough food to replenish their energy stores or nourish their young.</p>



<p>The warm waters reached at the end of migrations provide a safe haven for whales to give birth and raise their calves. Delayed arrival due to noise pollution shortens the amount of time available for these critical activities. This can impact the health and survival of newborn calves, jeopardizing future generations.</p>



<p>Successful reproduction and healthy calf survival are essential for whale populations to thrive. Delays and disruptions caused by noise pollution can lead to population decline over time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-need-for-change">Urgent need for change</h2>



<p>"These incredible animals journey up to 10,000km each year during migration – it's a huge investment of time and energy. We must find a solution within the shipping and construction industries that don't come at the cost of whale activity and breeding," said Dr. Johnston.</p>



<p>As human activity in the oceans continues to rise, science-based decisions are critical to protect whales and the fragile balance of marine ecosystems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pressing-pause-on-noise-pollution">Pressing pause on noise pollution</h2>



<p>Ocean noise pollution is a problem we can solve. Now that we understand the negative impacts, we can work towards quieter ships, better construction methods, and more careful exploration techniques to preserve the whales' acoustic environment. They rely on a quiet ocean to thrive, and ensuring that is a responsibility we share.</p>



<ul>
<li>Quieter ships:&nbsp;Designing ships with modified propellers, improved hull insulation, and other advancements can significantly reduce the amount of noise they produce. Additionally, simple actions like lowering vessel speeds in known whale habitats can make an immediate difference in reducing noise levels.</li>



<li>Improved construction methods: Offshore construction for wind farms, resource extraction, and other purposes often involves noisy activities like pile driving. Exploring alternatives like vibratory pile driving (which is quieter), or scheduling such activities outside of crucial whale migration periods, can greatly lessen the impact.</li>



<li>Responsible exploration techniques:&nbsp;Seismic surveys for mapping the seafloor or searching for resources frequently utilize loud air guns. Researchers are exploring marine vibrators, which create a less disruptive type of sound wave. Being mindful of the timing and location of these surveys is crucial to minimizing harm to whales.</li>



<li>Collective responsibility:&nbsp;Addressing ocean noise pollution requires collaboration among governments, industries, and researchers. Implementing regulations, investing in quieter technologies, and making conscientious choices about ocean development are vital steps towards protecting the delicate acoustic environment of marine life.</li>
</ul>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://movementecologyjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40462-024-00458-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Movement Ecology</a></em>.</p>



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Noise pollution is increasingly disrupting whale migration

A new study by the University of Melbourne and Politecnico...

<p>A survey of orchid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/save-native-bees/">bees</a> in the Brazilian Amazon state of Rondônia, conducted in the 1990s, is casting new light on the effects of deforestation on these important pollinators, which are considered indicators of biodiversity in the neotropics.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The latest study, led by the <a href="https://ku.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Kansas</a>, highlights the resilience and vulnerability of these scent-collecting bees amidst environmental change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collecting-orchid-bees-nbsp">Collecting orchid bees&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“This study on orchid bees was an add-on to previous research on stingless bees. Orchid bees are so easy to collect, so we added them to our broader survey of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bee-diversity-is-critical-to-ecosystems/">bee biodiversity</a> across this rapidly developing region in the Amazon,” said study lead author J. Christopher Brown, a geography &amp; atmospheric science professor at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We’ve known for decades that particular fragrances like eucalyptus oil, for example, attract male orchid bees, which naturally collect similar fragrances from orchids to use in mating. All you do is dip cotton balls into a variety of chemical attractants and hang these on a string in the open air.”</p>



<p>“The bees start arriving in minutes, hovering around the baits and displaying their often metallic-hued blue and green colors. They were among the first types of organisms studied to understand the impact of that deforestation on the general biology and ecology of an area.”&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>The experts pinpointed specific orchid bee species that thrive in both degraded and preserved environments, offering insight into how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-deforestation-crisis-how-can-we-stop-massive-forest-losses/">deforestation</a> influences local ecosystems.</p>



<p>“I had previously seen orchid bees in museum collections, but seeing them in the field was a wholly different experience. It’s breathtaking seeing these bees appear at the baits out of nowhere,” Brown added.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This fieldwork, conducted in collaboration with Marcio Oliveira of the <a href="https://www.gov.br/inpa/pt-br">National Institute for Amazonian Research</a>, led to the collection of significant data on orchid bees across Rondônia, utilizing a unique method that diverged from traditional yearlong studies focused on forest fragments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comprehensive-look-at-orchid-bee-diversity">Comprehensive look at orchid bee diversity</h2>



<p>Despite the historical nature of the data, its value remains intact, offering a comprehensive look at orchid bee diversity across a broad geographic area. This work serves as a critical baseline for future biodiversity studies in the region.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“While conventional studies involve yearlong collection efforts in a handful of forest fragments, we sampled the bee population in 130 locations across the state in just an hour at each location. This unconventional approach revealed a wealth of bee diversity previously undocumented by others.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hope-for-lower-deforestation-rates">Hope for lower deforestation rates </h2>



<p>However, the findings also highlighted the detrimental effects of agricultural colonization on bee populations. Brown suggested that conservation efforts might hinge on Brazil's internal politics and economics but also mentioned market-oriented strategies that have shown promise in reducing deforestation.</p>



<p>“We are optimistic that stricter enforcement of environmental laws under Brazil’s new administration will lead to lower deforestation rates in the Amazon,” said Brown. “Our research highlighted the substantial reduction in deforestation resulting from these agreements.”</p>



<p>“In light of this, the question arises: What actions can consumers take? Many of these initiatives are led by prominent environmental organizations that wield influence with both industry and government. When these organizations yield tangible results, individuals may consider contributing to support their endeavors, particularly if the cause aligns with their interests and is scientifically backed. Such contributions can make a discernible impact."</p>



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



<p>Orchid bees are a fascinating group of bees, known scientifically as Euglossini, that are native to the Americas. These bees are known for their striking metallic colors, which can range from vibrant greens and blues to purples and reds.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifestyle">Lifestyle</h3>



<p>Unlike many other bee species, orchid bees are solitary, meaning that they do not live in colonies. Each female bee lives and nests independently, constructing her nest in various natural cavities or in the ground.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mating-secrets">Mating secrets</h3>



<p>The male orchid bees are particularly known for their unique behavior of collecting fragrant compounds from orchids and other sources. They store these scents in specialized pouches in their hind legs, and it is believed that these scents play a crucial role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pesticides-make-it-harder-for-male-bees-to-attract-mates/">attracting mates</a>, although the exact mechanisms are still a subject of research.</p>



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



<p>One of the most remarkable aspects of orchid bees is their relationship with orchids. Many species of orchids rely exclusively on these bees for pollination.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Orchid bees have long, coiled tongues, adapted for accessing nectar from the deep chambers of certain orchids. This mutualistic relationship highlights a fascinating example of co-evolution, where the bees and the orchids have evolved in tandem to meet each other's needs. The bees get food and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-bees-create-perfume-from-flowers-to-attract-females/">fragrance compounds</a>, while the orchids receive the benefit of specialized pollinators that ensure their reproduction.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation">Conservation</h3>



<p>Conservation efforts are vital for orchid bees, as they face threats from habitat destruction and fragmentation, which affect their food sources and nesting sites. Preserving tropical and subtropical forests, where these bees are predominantly found, is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance and ensuring the survival of these unique pollinators and the diverse plant life they support.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2024.110560" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Biological Conservation</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Orchid bees are endangered by deforestation in the Amazon

A survey of orchid bees in the Brazilian Amazon state...

<p>The ocean is a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life. Sadly, it's sending out distress signals. A recent study suggests that climate change is wreaking far more havoc on marine life than we ever imagined. </p>



<p>Scientists are sounding the alarm that fish and invertebrates (like snails and sea urchins) are caught in the crosshairs, and the effects are profound.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-hidden-dangers-for-marine-life">Climate change: Hidden dangers for marine life</h2>



<p>"To gain a better understanding of the overall worldwide impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-sea-levels-spiked-dramatically-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, marine biologists calculate its effects on all fish or all invertebrate species lumped together," explained lead author Katharina Alter of the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (<a href="https://www.nioz.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIOZ</a>).</p>



<p>This approach to studying the impact of climate change on marine life aims to capture the overall impact across these broad categories. However, this method has a significant limitation. </p>



<p>Let's say climate change affects two different groups of marine animals in opposite ways. For example, warmer and more acidic waters might benefit one group by providing more food sources, while harming another by weakening their shells.</p>



<p>In such a scenario, the averaging approach could mask the true impact. The average result might show minimal change for the entire category, even though individual groups within it are experiencing significant positive or negative effects.</p>



<p>This is precisely what the new study by Dr. Alter and her team aims to address. Their method goes beyond simple averaging and instead focuses on how much individual species deviate from their normal biological state due to climate change. The result? A clearer picture of the damage.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-climate-change-on-marine-life">Impact of climate change on marine life</h2>



<p>With the old method, scientists knew climate change impacts three key areas for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ripple-effects-of-climate-change-have-created-a-new-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a> creatures: lowering survival chances, boosting metabolism, and harming the skeletons of invertebrates.</p>



<p>But this new analysis reveals the impact is broader:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physiology">Physiology</h3>



<p>Their basic bodily functions are disturbed. Changes in seawater could disrupt processes like temperature regulation, respiration (taking in oxygen), and waste removal. This is similar to how a human might struggle in extreme heat or at high altitudes.</p>



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



<p>It may become harder to create the next generation. This is serious for species already struggling. Warmer waters and ocean acidification can disrupt reproductive cycles, decrease egg or larval survival, and even make it harder for adults to find mates.</p>



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



<p>How they find food, avoid predators - it all could change. Fish or invertebrates might need to change where they live, what they eat, and how they interact with other species. This can make them more vulnerable to predators or unable to find enough food for survival</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-development">Development</h3>



<p>How they grow and mature is altered. Some larvae (the baby stage of many ocean creatures) might not develop correctly in this new environment. Changes in ocean chemistry or temperature could lead to deformities, slower growth rates, or even make larvae more vulnerable to being eaten.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-change-in-even-one-species-matters">Why change in even one species matters</h2>



<p>"Both effects matter and even have cascading effects," noted Dr. Alter. Even seemingly small changes in one species can have far-reaching consequences.</p>



<p>For example, imagine climate change alters the feeding patterns of two grazers on the seafloor: sea snails and sea urchins. If sea snails start consuming more algae due to factors like warmer water temperatures, it disrupts the natural balance. </p>



<p>This means there's more algae available overall because the urchins, which typically feed heavily on algae, are now consuming less. While this shift might seem isolated, it can have a ripple effect throughout the ecosystem. </p>



<p>With increased algae comes a decline in kelp forests. Kelp forests are complex underwater ecosystems that provide food and shelter for many species. A decline in kelp could lead to a decrease in fish populations that rely on them for food and habitat.</p>



<p>This domino effect highlights how even seemingly minor changes in individual species can have cascading consequences that impact the entire marine environment. Dr. Alter's study emphasizes the importance of understanding these interconnected relationships to truly comprehend the impact of climate change on our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-substantially-changing-the-seasons-of-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oceans</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predictions-of-marine-life-and-climate-change">Predictions of marine life and climate change</h2>



<p>The researchers examined how different levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide would influence the future health of our oceans. This is crucial because excess carbon dioxide from human activities (like burning fossil fuels) is the primary driver of both ocean warming and acidification.</p>



<p>"Our new approach suggests that if ocean warming and acidification continue on the current trajectory, up to 100% of the biological processes in fish and invertebrate species will be affected, while previous research methods found changes in only about 20 and 25% of all processes, respectively," noted Dr. Alter.</p>



<p>Importantly, the study also provides a crucial glimmer of hope. In a scenario where carbon dioxide emissions are significantly reduced, the percentage of affected biological processes drops dramatically. This underscores the power of human action; by mitigating climate change, we have the potential to protect vast swaths of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-sediments-predict-the-impacts-of-ocean-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine life</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-marine-life-from-climate-change">Saving marine life from climate change</h2>



<p>To save marine life from climate change, we must act on multiple fronts:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduce-carbon-footprint">Reduce carbon footprint</h3>



<p>Cut down greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning to renewable energy sources, like wind, solar, and hydro power. Reducing your personal carbon footprint through lifestyle changes, such as using public transportation, conserving electricity, and eating a plant-based diet, can also contribute significantly.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protect-marine-life-from-climate-change">Protect marine life from climate change</h3>



<p>Establish and enforce marine protected areas (MPAs) to safeguard critical habitats, allowing ecosystems to recover and thrive. Restoration projects, such as coral reef restoration and mangrove planting, can also help buffer marine communities against climate change effects.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-promote-sustainable-fishing">Promote sustainable fishing</h3>



<p>Implement and support sustainable fishing practices to prevent overfishing, which weakens marine populations making them more susceptible to the stresses of climate change.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduce-pollution">Reduce pollution</h3>



<p>Combat ocean pollution by minimizing plastic use, properly disposing of hazardous materials, and supporting policies and initiatives aimed at keeping our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-may-be-accelerated-by-an-ocean-tipping-point/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oceans</a> clean.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-support-marine-science-and-conservation">Support marine science and conservation</h3>



<p>Fund and support scientific research focused on understanding and mitigating the impacts of climate change on marine life. Public support for conservation organizations working to protect the ocean can also make a big difference.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-raise-awareness">Raise awareness</h3>



<p>Educate others about the impacts of climate change on marine life and what they can do to help. Awareness leads to action.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advocate-for-climate-action">Advocate for climate action</h3>



<p>Support policies and initiatives that aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change on a global scale.</p>



<p>Collective action and changes in policy and personal behavior can significantly contribute to protecting marine life from the adverse effects of climate change.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-47064-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



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Climate change is impacting marine life more than we realized

The ocean is a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life. Sadly,...

<p>Substituting red meat with forage fish like herring, sardines, and anchovies could prevent up to 750,000 deaths annually by 2050 and markedly decrease disability from diet-related diseases, according to a recent study led by the <a href="https://www.nies.go.jp/index-e.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Institute for Environmental Studies</a> in Japan. </p>



<p>This dietary shift could particularly benefit low and middle-income countries, where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-century-of-progress-in-the-fight-against-cardiovascular-disease/">heart disease</a> rates are high and such fish are both affordable and abundant.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consumption-of-red-meat-nbsp">Consumption of red meat&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The consumption of red and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ultra-processed-foods-like-soda-and-snacks-are-the-new-silent-killer/">processed meats</a> has been increasingly linked to a higher risk of non-communicable diseases, which were responsible for approximately 70% of global deaths in 2019.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Health issues such as coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and bowel cancer constituted nearly half of these deaths, with coronary artery disease being the most prevalent.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-benefits-of-forage-fish">Health benefits of forage fish</h2>



<p>Marine forage fish, consumed by larger fish species, are noted for their high levels of omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA), which may help prevent coronary heart disease. They are also rich in calcium and vitamin B12 and boast the smallest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-seafood-has-one-sixth-the-carbon-footprint-of-red-meat/">carbon footprint</a> among all animal food sources.</p>



<p>However, the researchers highlight a concerning issue: about three-quarters of forage fish catch, much of it from regions grappling with food insecurity, is processed into fish meal and fish oil for aquaculture, catering primarily to affluent consumers.</p>



<p>To assess how forage fish could impact global disease burden if used as a red meat alternative, the researchers devised four different global distribution scenarios based on projected red meat consumption in 2050 across 137 countries and historical data on catches.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forage-fish-in-human-diets">Forage fish in human diets</h2>



<p>The findings indicate significant potential public health benefits from incorporating forage fish directly into human diets, particularly in lowering coronary heart disease occurrences.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This approach could prevent between half a million to 750,000 deaths from diet-related diseases in 2050 and reduce years lived with disability by 8–15 million, with the most significant impact in low and middle-income countries.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-the-global-disease-burden-nbsp">Reducing the global disease burden&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Although the supply of these fish may not be enough to replace all red <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reduced-meat-consumption-2050/">meat</a> consumption, their optimal utilization could nearly meet the recommended fish intake of 40 kcal per capita daily in most countries, potentially reducing deaths from major diseases by 2% in 2050.</p>



<p>The analysis pointed out that prioritizing domestic supply of forage fish for direct consumption or as a meat substitute could have the least impact on death prevention.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Allocating forage fish to areas with minimal seafood intake, predominantly in lower and middle-income countries, could more effectively lessen the global disease burden.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-barriers">Cultural barriers </h2>



<p>“Despite the theoretical potential of forage fish, several barriers, such as fish meal and oil processing, overfishing, climate change, and cultural acceptance may prevent the health benefits of forage fish from being realized,” the authors wrote.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Multi-sectoral policy coordination and action (eg: prioritizing access to affordable fish, such as forage fish, for the poor and promoting the use of nutrient-rich microalgae as fish feed) could help to address some of these barriers.”</p>



<p>Implementing culturally appropriate interventions to encourage diet and lifestyle changes, alongside strategies like climate change impact labels and educating consumers on the nutritional benefits of forage fish, could further facilitate the shift from red meat to forage fish, contributing to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-climate-change-and-biodiversity-loss-are-one-indivisible-global-health-crisis/">global health</a> improvements.</p>



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



<p>Forage fish are small, schooling fish that play a crucial role in marine ecosystems. They are a key food source for larger predatory fish, marine mammals, and birds.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These fish are characterized by their large populations and high reproductive rates, which help sustain their numbers despite heavy predation. They are found in oceans worldwide and tend to inhabit the water column's upper layers, though some species may migrate to deeper waters.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Forage fish are also significant for human economies, supporting commercial fishing industries and being used in fishmeal, oil production, and as bait.</p>



<p>Their importance to marine food webs cannot be overstated. The decline in forage fish populations due to overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change can have cascading effects, impacting predators' survival and altering marine biodiversity. </p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjgh-2023-013511" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>BMJ Global Health</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Dietary shift to forage fish could prevent millions of deaths

Substituting red meat with forage fish like herring, sardines, and...

<p>A new study led by an international team of scientists has revealed that peregrine falcons across North America are burdened with a legacy of pollution from flame retardants, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/environmentally-friendly-flame-retardants/">chemicals</a> added to various consumer products to meet flammability standards. </p>



<p>Despite their intended safety purpose, these chemicals often fail to perform and have a propensity to leach into the environment, posing risks to wildlife and humans alike. According to the experts, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/peregrine-falcons-have-a-unique-and-successful-hunting-strategy/">falcons</a> are still accumulating flame retardants that have been discontinued for years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-consequences-of-flame-retardants-nbsp">Long-term consequences of flame retardants&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Our results expose the long-term consequences of adding flame retardants to consumer products,” said senior author Da Chen, a scientist at <a href="https://english.jnu.edu.cn/">Jinan University</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“As globally distributed apex predators, the peregrine falcon is the ideal canary in the coal mine for monitoring flame retardant pollution in the environment. Flame retardants phased out a decade ago are still accumulating in these birds and into their eggs, which indicates that the threats of these chemicals to wildlife and people can far outlast their production.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contaminated-peregrine-falcon-eggs">Contaminated peregrine falcon eggs</h2>



<p>The study, the most comprehensive of its kind in terms of both time span and geographical coverage, analyzed peregrine falcon eggs collected from various locations across the US and Canada between 1984 and 2016.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers found that polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) were not only the most detected flame retardants but also had the highest concentrations in the eggs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While the production of major PBDE mixtures ceased in North America well before the study period ended, their presence in falcon populations did not diminish. Similarly, hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD), another flame retardant phased out since 2012, was found in the majority of eggs, with concentrations showing no signs of decreasing.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-persistence-of-flame-retardants-nbsp">Persistence of flame retardants&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The persistence of these chemicals in the environment is attributed to their release from products manufactured before their phase-out and their accumulation through food chains, affecting apex predators like peregrine falcons. The findings underscore the inefficacy of simply ceasing the production of harmful substances without addressing their long-lasting impact.</p>



<p>Although regulated halogenated flame retardants remained prevalent or even increased, the use of non-halogenated and polymeric flame retardants has risen as alternatives. However, these substances appear to be also linked to health and environmental concerns.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-many-species-are-impacted">Many species are impacted</h2>



<p>The issue of flame retardant pollution is not exclusive to peregrine falcons. <a href="https://greensciencepolicy.org/">The Green Science Policy Institute</a> has documented over 150 species worldwide, from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/killer-whales-dietary-preferences-expose-them-to-pollutants/">killer whales</a> to red pandas and chimpanzees, contaminated with both old and new flame retardant chemicals.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This widespread contamination highlights the urgent need for reevaluating the use of flame retardants in consumer products and the importance of finding safer alternatives to protect both wildlife and human health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-peregrine-falcons-nbsp">More about peregrine falcons&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Peregrine falcons are among the most widely recognized birds of prey and are notable for their remarkable speed and agility. These birds are medium-sized falcons that are not only admired for their hunting prowess but also for their breathtaking flying abilities.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Peregrine falcons have a distinctive appearance, characterized by a blue-grey back, barred white underparts, and a black head with large, dark eyes. One of the most striking features of the peregrine falcon is its incredible speed; during a hunting dive, known as a stoop, it can reach speeds over 200 miles per hour, making it the fastest animal in the world.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distribution">Distribution</h3>



<p>Peregrine falcons are found all over the world, inhabiting a wide range of environments including urban areas, where they nest on tall buildings and bridges, as well as more traditional cliff-side habitats. Their adaptability to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-of-peregrine-falcons-suggests-birds-have-a-migration-gene/">different environments</a> is one reason for their global presence. They feed primarily on other birds, which they catch in mid-air with a stunning display of aerial agility.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-of-peregrine-falcons">Conservation of peregrine falcons </h3>



<p>These falcons have played a significant role in human culture and falconry for thousands of years, revered for their speed, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-falcons-are-highly-intelligent-and-eager-to-show-it/">intelligence</a>, and hunting skills. Conservation efforts in the late 20th century have helped recover peregrine falcon populations that were once threatened by pesticide use, particularly DDT. Today, they are considered a conservation success story, with strong populations in many parts of the world.</p>



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



<p>Peregrine falcons mate for life and are known for their impressive aerial courtship displays. They typically nest in a scrape, usually on cliff edges or, in urban environments, tall structures. The female lays a clutch of eggs, which both parents then incubate and care for once hatched.</p>



<p>The recovery of the peregrine falcon from the brink of extinction is not just a testament to the resilience of this remarkable bird but also a powerful example of how concerted conservation efforts can lead to the recovery of a species.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.3c10907"><em>Environmental Science &amp; Technology</em></a>.</p>



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Peregrine falcons suffer long-term harm from chemicals in consumer products

A new study led by an international team of scientists...

<p>Deep within the Mediterranean Sea lies a creature that defies expectations. The <a href="https://earthpedia.earth.com/animal-encyclopedia/undefined/alciopidae/vanadis-minuta/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vanadis</a> bristle worm, a small marine invertebrate, possesses an extraordinary feature: remarkably large and sophisticated eyes. </p>



<p>These eyes rival the visual capabilities found in many mammals, presenting a fascinating puzzle for scientists who study evolution and vision.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vanadis-worm-and-its-advanced-eyes">Vanadis worm and its advanced eyes</h2>



<p>The most striking feature of the Vanadis worm is undoubtedly its eyes. Imagine a creature no bigger than a piece of spaghetti, with two enormous orbs dominating its head. </p>



<p>These eyes are not simply large in relation to its body; they are objectively massive. Scientists estimate that the weight of the Vanadis worm's eyes is a staggering twenty times greater than the rest of its head combined.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sophisticated-visual-abilities">Sophisticated visual abilities</h2>



<p>This extraordinary size isn't purely cosmetic. The <a href="https://earthpedia.earth.com/animal-encyclopedia/undefined/alciopidae/vanadis-brevirostris/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vanadis</a> worm's eyes possess remarkably sophisticated visual capabilities. Researchers have conducted experiments that reveal its eyes can focus on relatively small objects with impressive clarity. </p>



<p>Furthermore, these tiny creatures can track the movement of the objects, demonstrating a level of visual acuity that rivals many land mammals like mice and rats.</p>



<p>This level of visual detail and tracking ability is particularly surprising considering the simple structure of the Vanadis worm. Most biologists wouldn't expect a basic organism to possess such advanced vision. </p>



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



<p>The unexpected discovery highlights the remarkable diversity and adaptability found within the natural world. Even creatures with seemingly uncomplicated bodies can evolve highly specialized and sophisticated features.</p>



<p>The specific structure of the Vanadis worm's eyes is another area of ongoing research. Scientists are particularly interested in the intricate arrangement of light-sensitive cells within these organs. </p>



<p>Understanding how these cells are organized and work together could provide valuable insights into the evolution of complex vision in different animal groups.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vanadis-worm-s-nocturnal-lifestyle">Vanadis worm's nocturnal lifestyle</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/search-results/?search=vanadis&amp;start=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vanadis</a> worm's impressive eyes raise an intriguing question: Why would a creature that thrives in darkness possess such large and complex visual organs? This contradictory adaptation adds to the growing sense of mystery surrounding this small but remarkable marine animal.</p>



<p>As a nocturnal species, the Vanadis worm conducts its primary activities – foraging, hunting, and potentially finding mates – under the cover of night. In this environment, where sunlight is scarce or absent, large eyes might seem like an unnecessary evolutionary investment.</p>



<p>However, scientists have uncovered another layer to this puzzle: the Vanadis worm has the remarkable ability to see ultraviolet (UV) light. This high-energy form of light lies beyond the range of human perception, extending past the violet end of the visible spectrum.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vanadis-worms-eyes-uv-vision">Vanadis worms eyes UV vision</h2>



<p>UV vision presents a unique challenge and opportunity for nocturnal creatures. While UV light from the sun is typically less prevalent during nighttime hours, it's not entirely absent. Trace amounts of UV light from celestial bodies or reflected by various surfaces could potentially be used for navigation or detecting objects of interest. </p>



<p>The Vanadis worm might produce its own light through bioluminescence. This introduces exciting prospects for the use of UV vision. Seeing UV bioluminescence, invisible to most, could be crucial for survival. It aids in communication and reproduction in the ocean's darkness.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vanadis-worm-s-language-of-the-eyes">Vanadis worm's language of the eyes</h2>



<p>Scientists Anders Garm from <a href="https://www.ku.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Copenhagen</a> and Michael Bok from <a href="https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lund University</a> have proposed a captivating theory to explain the Vanadis worm's unusual visual abilities and nocturnal lifestyle. They suggest that the worm may be using bioluminescence – the ability to produce and emit its own light – as a form of communication exclusively visible to its own species.</p>



<p>This hypothesis centers on the Vanadis worm's extraordinary UV vision. If the worms are capable of producing UV bioluminescence, they could potentially use flashes or patterns of light to signal their presence to potential mates, coordinate hunting strategies with others of their kind, or navigate their complex underwater environment. </p>



<p>Because most marine organisms cannot perceive UV light, this would essentially create a private communication channel that other predators or competitors cannot intercept.</p>



<p>"We have a theory that the worms themselves are bioluminescent and communicate with each other via light. If you use normal blue or green light as bioluminescence, you also risk attracting predators. But if instead, the worm uses UV light, it will remain invisible to animals other than those of its own species. Therefore, our hypothesis is that they’ve developed sharp UV vision so as to have a secret language related to mating," said Garm.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vanadis-worm-and-its-unique-eyes">Vanadis worm and its unique eyes</h2>



<p>The implications of this theory are significant. If confirmed, it would fundamentally alter our understanding of how animals in the deep ocean interact and exchange information. </p>



<p>The concept of a hidden network of communication, based on a form of light invisible to humans, highlights the extraordinary sensory diversity found in the natural world.</p>



<p>Furthermore, the discovery of UV bioluminescence in the Vanadis worm would be a scientific breakthrough. To date, there are no other known animals that use UV wavelengths for bioluminescence. </p>



<p>Documenting this phenomenon would not only broaden our understanding of light use in the animal kingdom but also inspire new research into how organisms detect and produce different light types.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technological-and-evolutionary-insights">Technological and evolutionary insights</h2>



<p>The Vanadis worm's amazing eyes aren't just a source of biological wonder; they hold immense potential for technological advancements. </p>



<p>"Together with the robotics researchers, we are working to understand how animals with brains as simple as these can process all of the information that such large eyes are likely able to collect. This suggests that there are super smart ways to process information in their nervous system. And if we can detect these mechanisms mathematically, they could be integrated into computer chips and used to control robots," explained Garm.</p>



<p>Additionally, this peculiar worm challenges long-held beliefs about the evolution of eyes. The Vanadis' advanced eyes appear to have developed relatively quickly in evolutionary terms. </p>



<p>This finding suggests that complex vision can arise independently in different branches of the animal kingdom, contradicting some previous theories that assumed eyes evolved only once in a common ancestor. The Vanadis worm provides valuable evidence for a more diverse and flexible understanding of how vision came to be.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-the-vanadis-worm-s-eyes">Beyond the vanadis worm's eyes</h2>



<p>Beyond their remarkable eyesight, Vanadis worms, like other polychaetes, possess a variety of fascinating biological features and behaviors that contribute to their survival and ecological roles in marine environments.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Body structure and adaptability</h3>



<p>Vanadis worms are characterized by their elongated bodies divided into many segments, each with a pair of bristles or "chaetae." </p>



<p>These bristles aid in locomotion and interaction with their environment. Their bodies are often transparent, which helps them blend into their surroundings, a crucial adaptation for avoiding predators.</p>



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



<p>Polychaetes, including the Vanadis <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-deep-sea-worm-discovered-off-costa-rica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">worm</a>, exhibit diverse feeding strategies. Some act as predators, others scavenge, and many, including the Vanadis, likely feed on tiny particles or microorganisms in the water. Their sensitive antennae and palps facilitate this diet by detecting food in their surroundings.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reproduction and life cycle</h3>



<p>The reproductive strategies of polychaetes can vary widely, with some species releasing eggs and sperm into the water for external fertilization, while others may brood their young or exhibit direct development. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Ecological role</h3>



<p>Polychaetes play significant roles in marine ecosystems. They are essential for the benthic food web, serving as prey for a variety of larger animals such as fish and birds. </p>



<p>Additionally, by burrowing and feeding in the sediment, they help in the process of bioturbation, which is crucial for sediment mixing and aeration, and they aid in the breakdown of organic matter, contributing to nutrient cycling.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Adaptations to nocturnal life</h3>



<p>Vanadis <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/syllid-worms-have-a-butt-that-grows-its-own-organs-and-swims-away-to-mate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">worms</a>, being nocturnal, have developed adaptations beyond their visual capabilities to thrive in the darkness. Their nocturnal habits likely help them avoid daytime predators and may influence their feeding patterns, reproductive behaviors, and overall lifestyle. </p>



<p>The exact nature of these adaptations, particularly how they navigate and find food in complete darkness, remains a subject of ongoing research.</p>



<p>Image Credit: Michael Bok</p>



<p>The study is published in <em><a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2024.02.055." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a></em>.</p>



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Do Vanadis worms use their large eyes to communicate in a secret language?

Deep within the Mediterranean Sea lies a creature that defies...

Pachyrhinosaurus,Was,A,Ceratopsid,Dinosaur,That,Lived,In,North,America

<p>In a remarkable study, the longstanding scientific principle known as Bergmann's rule, which posits that animals in colder, high-latitude climates are typically larger than those in warmer regions, is being challenged. </p>



<p>Originating in the 1800s, this rule has been a cornerstone of ecological and evolutionary theory. Yet, researchers from the University of Alaska Fairbanks and the University of Reading have uncovered evidence from the fossil record. This evidence, particularly involving dinosaurs, tells a different story.</p>



<p>This new research suggests that the traditional understanding of Bergmann's rule may not apply universally across different species and climates. Consequently, this challenges decades of scientific consensus.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bergmann-s-rule">Bergmann's rule</h2>



<p>Bergmann's Rule states that within a broadly distributed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-self-regulated-their-body-temperature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">taxonomic group</a>, the size of an animal increases with latitude and correlates with the temperature of their environment.</p>



<p>It is a key concept in ecology and evolution. Scientists have applied and tested it across different animals like birds, mammals, and insects. It falls under biogeography which studies how species and ecosystems spread across places and time.</p>



<p>The rule is particularly relevant for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sauropod-dinosaurs-lived-only-in-earths-warmer-regions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endothermic</a> (warm-blooded) animals because they must regulate their internal body temperature. </p>



<p>According to this rule, larger-bodied animals in colder regions have an advantage in conserving heat due to their reduced surface area-to-volume ratio, which minimizes heat loss. </p>



<p>Conversely, smaller-bodied animals in warmer regions can dissipate body heat more efficiently because of their higher surface area-to-volume ratio.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenging-bergmann-s-rule">Challenging Bergmann's rule</h2>



<p>Lauren Wilson, a graduate student at the <a href="https://www.uaf.edu/uaf/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Alaska Fairbanks</a> and a lead author of the study published in <em>Nature Communications</em>, shares that their findings reveal the complexity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-wonder-evolutionary-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary traits</a>. </p>



<p>"Our study shows that the evolution of diverse body sizes in dinosaurs and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolutionary-mystery-why-are-mammals-the-only-vertebrates-to-have-only-one-lower-jawbone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mammals</a> cannot be reduced to simply being a function of latitude or temperature," Wilson explains. </p>



<p>She also emphasizes the specificity of Bergmann’s rule. The rule seems to apply only to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ichthyosaurs-warm-blooded/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">homeothermic animals</a>, those that maintain stable body temperatures, and even then, only under certain conditions. This revelation hints at the rule being more of an exception rather than a universal principle.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dinosaurs-in-the-snow">Dinosaurs in the snow</h2>



<p>The study, inspired by a conversation between Wilson and her advisor, explored if Bergmann’s rule applied to dinosaurs.</p>



<p>After a comprehensive review of data from the fossil record, including dinosaurs from Alaska's Prince Creek Formation which endured freezing conditions, the researchers found no significant correlation. The animals' body size did not seem to relate to their arctic environment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-birds-and-mammals">Modern birds and mammals</h2>



<p>Extending their research to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/modern-bird-feathers-contain-traces-of-dinosaur-feathers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">modern birds</a> and mammals, the descendants of ancient mammals and dinosaurs, the team discovered similar patterns.</p>



<p>Subsequently, latitude proved to be an unreliable predictor of body size among these species. This finding further complicates the supposed straightforward relationship Bergmann's rule suggests.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fossil-records-challenge-scientific-norms">Fossil records challenge scientific norms</h2>



<p>Jacob Gardner, a postdoctoral researcher at the <a href="https://www.reading.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Reading</a> and another lead author of the paper, highlights the fossil record's value. He points out how it challenges present-day scientific beliefs.</p>



<p>"The fossil record provides a window into completely different ecosystems and climate conditions, allowing us to assess the applicability of these ecological rules in a whole new way," Gardner states.</p>



<p>Consequently, this approach opens the door to reevaluating other established scientific principles through the lens of paleontological evidence.</p>



<p>Pat Druckenmiller, director of the University of Alaska <a href="https://www.uaf.edu/museum/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Museum of the North</a> and co-author of the study, underscores the importance of historical context in understanding contemporary ecosystems.</p>



<p>"You can't understand <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/time-traveling-pathogens-from-melting-permafrost-pose-great-risk-to-the-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">modern ecosystems</a> if you ignore their evolutionary roots," he remarks. He advocates for a comprehensive view that includes the ancient past to fully grasp the current state of our natural world.</p>



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



<p>The study's implications extend far beyond challenging Bergmann's rule. It reshapes our understanding of evolutionary adaptation and species diversity. </p>



<p>By demonstrating that body size evolution cannot be solely attributed to latitude or temperature, it prompts a reevaluation of ecological and evolutionary theories. This insight encourages scientists to explore additional factors influencing species adaptation. </p>



<p>The study also underscores the importance of integrating paleontological data into current biological research, offering a more comprehensive view of life's history on Earth. </p>



<p>Furthermore, it highlights the need for a nuanced approach to studying biological principles, recognizing that exceptions to long-standing rules can lead to new scientific discoveries and understandings.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://journals.aps.org/prx/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevX.14.011028" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em><em>Nature Communications</em></em></a>.</p>



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Dinosaurs debunk a classic climate theory called 'Bergmann's rule'

In a remarkable study, the longstanding scientific principle known as...

<p>Coral reefs are like the bustling cities of the ocean that house a quarter of all marine species, including countless microbes. These reefs boost economies by supporting tourism and fisheries that adds billions to global economies.</p>



<p>However, these vital ecosystems are currently facing unparalleled threats. The combined pressures of climate change, disease, and various stressors have contributed to their consistent decline.</p>



<p>In response to this crisis, researchers from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (<a href="https://www.whoi.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WHOI</a>) have embarked on a remarkable study. The experts have turned their attention to an unexpected ally for real-time monitoring of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seaweed-can-mislead-scientists-about-reef-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reef health</a>: the microbes inhabiting these aquatic environments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbes-role-in-coral-reef-survival">Microbes role in coral reef survival</h2>



<p>Cynthia Becker, a recent graduate of the MIT-WHOI Joint Program, led the research, which uncovers the critical role microbes play within <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fishing-levels-can-destroy-or-save-coral-reef-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral reef ecosystems</a>.</p>



<p>Microbes are essentially minuscule life forms that are invisible to the naked eye. They inhabit virtually every corner of our planet. This includes the air we breathe, the soil beneath our feet, the bodies of water that surround us, and even the internal recesses of our own bodies.</p>



<p>Within the intricate ecosystems of coral reefs, these microscopic organisms undertake the vital task of recycling organic substances and nutrients. The recycling process carried out by microbes goes beyond merely breaking down materials; it acts as a lifeline for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-are-some-corals-more-resilient-to-climate-change-than-others/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">corals</a>. This process provides corals with the essential nourishment they need to thrive.</p>



<p>Moreover, microbes lay the foundation for a diverse web of life that thrives on coral reefs. They support a vast array of species that depend on these vibrant underwater cities for survival.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbial-shifts-in-coral-reefs">Microbial shifts in coral reefs</h2>



<p>For seven years, the researchers closely studied microbial communities around eight reefs in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Their findings showed major changes in these communities due to hurricanes and disease outbreaks.</p>



<p>"Coral reefs have been declining for decades… It is important for us to monitor changes in coral reefs as they are happening, and the microbes in their environment can really help us do that,” said Becker. </p>



<p>The study documents the effects of major events, including hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. It also covers the onset of the stony coral tissue loss disease outbreak in 2020.</p>



<p>Furthermore, the research details the significant changes within the microbial community resulting from these disturbances. This includes a notable 34% decline in Prochlorococcus, a critical photosynthetic bacteria, illustrating the profound impact these events have on the ecosystem's microbial balance.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microscopic-monitoring-with-edna">Microscopic monitoring with eDNA</h2>



<p>The research highlights a shift from traditional macro-level studies of coral reefs to a focus on the microscopic level. </p>



<p>"A lot of how we study coral reefs is done on a macroorganismal level. This makes it difficult to track the health of these vulnerable reefs in real time," explained study co-author Amy Apprill, a microbial ecologist at WHOI. </p>



<p>To bridge the gap, the team utilized environmental DNA (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/measure-coral-reef-health-water-samples/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eDNA</a>) techniques to examine microbial DNA, providing a noninvasive method for assessing reef health. This approach allows for almost instantaneous health evaluations of the reefs, offering a crucial advantage in conservation efforts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stages-in-edna">Stages in eDNA</h2>



<p>The technique starts with collecting water samples from the coral reefs, each containing approximately 1 million microbes per milliliter.</p>



<p>After collection, the microbial DNA within these samples is sequenced to analyze the present microbial communities.</p>



<p>Subsequently, this method provides a snapshot of the microbial community's composition, offering an insight into the reef's health in near real-time.</p>



<p>"Microbes are the hidden engines of coral reefs. By sampling the water, we can see the immediate impacts of disturbances and intervene to support the reefs before the situation potentially worsens,” noted Apprill.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-towards-a-future-of-healthy-reefs">Towards a future of healthy reefs</h2>



<p>Understanding the composition of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-bacteria-vital-to-coral-reef-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthy reef</a> microbial community is crucial for assessing the overall health of the ecosystem.</p>



<p>Consequently, this knowledge can complement visual assessments, providing a fuller picture of a reef's condition and informing conservation strategies.</p>



<p>As the challenges facing these ecosystems intensify, the study offers a beacon of hope, leveraging the power of modern genomics to safeguard the future of our planet's coral reefs.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://enviromicro-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1462-2920.16610" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Microbiology</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Microbes reveal the health of coral reefs in real time

Coral reefs are like the bustling cities of the ocean...

<p>Get ready for a <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/total-solar-eclipse-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">celestial showdown</a>! On April 8th, a total <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/time-to-make-your-plans-to-see-the-annular-solar-eclipse-on-october-14/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar eclipse</a> is set to cast a dramatic shadow on the natural world. </p>



<p>As the moon blocks the sun, plunging parts of North America into midday darkness, scientists are scrambling to understand how birds, bats, and insects – creatures exquisitely tuned to light levels – will react to this unexpected blackout.</p>



<p>For instance, birds migrating north for the spring, their internal clocks set to navigate by daylight, may suddenly find themselves confused. Will they mistake the eclipse for nightfall and seek a place to roost? Will insects stop their buzzing? </p>



<p>This is not just idle speculation – it's science in the making, offering insights into how animals perceive and respond to changes in light.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-a-total-solar-eclipse">What is a total solar eclipse?</h2>



<p>When the moon glides between the Earth and the sun, a solar eclipse unfolds. This event casts the moon's shadow across the Earth, dimming the sun's light completely or in part over certain regions. The usual daylight fades into a unique twilight, creating moments of wonder that last briefly.</p>



<p>This phenomenon is not just a rare spectacle; it's a journey into the shadows that only a select portion of the Earth's surface, known as the "path of totality," gets to experience firsthand. </p>



<p>During this upcoming eclipse, the path of totality carves a route starting in Mexico, slicing through the heart of Texas, and continuing its arc northeastward to Maine. </p>



<p>Those situated within this narrow corridor are the fortunate audience to a dramatic display of nature's grandeur, where day briefly transforms into night, unveiling stars and planets against a darkened sky. The sun's corona - a fiery halo - becomes visible in a mesmerizing celestial show.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-navigation-during-total-solar-eclipse">Bird navigation during total solar eclipse</h2>



<p>Birds, with their unparalleled mastery of long-distance migration, have long fascinated scientists and nature enthusiasts alike. They possess an extraordinary array of navigational tools, a testament to nature's ingenuity. </p>



<p>From the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/importance-solar-eclipses-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient art</a> of celestial navigation - using the sun by day and stars by night to sense the Earth's magnetic field - birds have developed a sophisticated understanding of the world around them to guide their epic journeys across continents.</p>



<p>However, there's a compelling twist in their story. These avian travelers surprisingly undertake their lengthy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/geomagnetic-disturbances-throw-nocturnal-birds-off-course/">migrations</a> predominantly under the cloak of night. </p>



<p>This nocturnal strategy raises intriguing questions about how sudden environmental changes, such as the abrupt darkness of a total solar eclipse, might affect their intricate navigation systems. </p>



<p>Will the sudden darkness disorient them, or will they adapt seamlessly? The answers hold clues to their navigational abilities and the adaptability of wildlife amidst change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-2017-eclipse">The 2017 eclipse</h2>



<p>This isn't the first time researchers have studied the effects of a solar eclipse on wildlife. During the total eclipse of 2017, Cornell Lab of Ornithology scientists used weather radar to track how animals reacted. The results were intriguing.</p>



<p>"During the 2017 eclipse, we saw a decrease in flying insects, flying birds - but we didn't see anything like the typical pattern of movement when it gets dark at night," said Andrew Farnsworth, senior researcher at the <a href="https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell Lab of Ornithology</a>.</p>



<p>Normally, as the sun sets, there's a flurry of activity – insects and bats emerge, birds seek out places to rest. During the 2017 eclipse, this transition didn't unfold in the same way. Birds didn't completely go into nighttime mode, suggesting a level of confusion triggered by the unusual darkness.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-grand-experiment-on-april-8th-2024">The grand experiment on April 8th 2024</h2>



<p>The April 8th eclipse presents a unique follow-up opportunity, with key differences that might illuminate new behavioral details. Here's what makes this one special:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spring-migration">Spring migration</h3>



<p>Unlike the 2017 eclipse, which happened in August during fall migration, this one hits during peak northward spring migration. With birds intensely motivated to reach their breeding grounds, any dramatic behavioral changes might be easier to detect.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-longer-totality">Longer totality</h3>



<p>This time, the period of totality – when the sun is fully blocked – will last longer, giving scientists more time to collect data.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tech-advances">Tech advances</h3>



<p>BirdCast, a tool allowing people to track nightly migration right down to their county, has been launched since the 2017 eclipse. Combining radar data with tools like this will provide richer details.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-scientists-hope-to-discover">What the scientists hope to discover</h2>



<p>The phenomenon of a solar eclipse offers a rare experimental condition on a grand scale, allowing researchers to observe and analyze how birds react to an abrupt interruption in daylight. </p>



<p>It's here, in these moments of unexpected nightfall, that scientists see a unique opportunity for discovery. Such questions are at the heart of ongoing scientific investigations. </p>



<p>Researchers eagerly anticipate these natural experiments, hoping to uncover deeper insights into avian cognition, sensory perception, and adaptability. </p>



<p>"By seeing how animals react to the total eclipse, we can get clues to how they perceive and use light under normal circumstances. Birds and insects might use cues from light differently, for example," said Cecilia Nilsson, lead author of the 2017 study.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-join-the-total-solar-eclipse-project">Join the total solar eclipse project</h2>



<p>While scientists analyze complex radar data, you can become a citizen scientist.</p>



<p>Observe animal behavior in your own backyard during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/annular-solar-eclipse-casts-a-shadow-over-north-america/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eclipse</a>. Do the birds seem confused? Do insects change their activity? Share your observations on platforms like <a href="https://ebird.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eBird</a>, where researchers access this valuable data.</p>



<p>Whether the results are wildly dramatic or reveal subtle changes, studying this eclipse is about more than just bird behavior. </p>



<p>It's a reminder of the balance between the natural world and cosmic events – a powerful illustration of how a little change in light can create fascinating ripples of effect.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Experience wildlife in shadow of today's total solar eclipse

Get ready for a celestial showdown! On April 8th, a...

<p>In the coming weeks, the United States is set to witness a natural phenomenon of almost mythical proportions as trillions of cicadas emerge from beneath the ground.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Periodical cicadas, known for their 13 or 17-year life cycles, will make a brief but overwhelming appearance across parts of the Southeast and Midwest.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-spectacle-of-periodical-cicadas">The spectacle of periodical cicadas</h3>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-periodical-cicadas-eat-when-theyre-above-ground/">Periodical cicadas</a> are among nature's most meticulously timed creatures. They spend the majority of their lives underground only to surface in vast numbers, creating a chorus as loud as jet engines.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These insects, distinguishable by their black bodies and bulging red eyes, differ from annual cicadas not only in appearance but also in their rare and synchronized life events.</p>



<p>This year, the U.S. will experience a rare phenomenon dubbed "cicada-geddon" by <a href="https://uconn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Connecticut</a> cicada expert John Cooley. The event marks the simultaneous emergence of two broods, a spectacle last witnessed in 1803 when Thomas Jefferson was president.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dual-emergence">The dual emergence</h2>



<p>This year's dual emergence of Broods XIX and XIII will take place across various parts of the United States. Soon after the insects emerge in large numbers across the Southeast, the second group of cicadas will inundate Illinois. The overall projected numbers are in the hundreds of trillions.</p>



<p>"You've got one very widely distributed brood in Brood XIX, but you have a very dense historically abundant brood in the Midwest, your Brood XIII," explained Mike Raupp, an entomologist at the <a href="https://umd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Maryland</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Fat, slow and tasty, periodical cicadas make ideal meals for birds, said Raupp, who eats them himself. “Birds everywhere will feast. Their bellies will be full and once again the cicadas will emerge triumphant.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aliens-living-beneath-our-feet-nbsp">Aliens living beneath our feet&nbsp;</h2>



<p>If you're fascinated by the upcoming solar eclipse, the cicadas are weirder and bigger, noted <a href="https://gatech.edu/node/1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Georgia Tech</a> biophysicist Saad Bhamla.</p>



<p>"We've got trillions of these amazing living organisms come out of the Earth, climb up on trees and it's just a unique experience, a sight to behold," said Bhamla. "It's like an entire alien species living underneath our feet and then some prime number years they come out to say hello."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-evolutionary-marvel-nbsp">An evolutionary marvel&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Misconceptions about cicadas often associate them with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-weather-dramatically-increases-the-threat-of-desert-locusts/">locusts</a>, creatures known for their destructive swarms. Cicadas - while potentially annoying - mainly pose risks to young trees and certain crops. These effects are localized and manageable.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The survival strategy of cicadas is nothing short of extraordinary. Their emergence in staggering numbers - a defense mechanism against predation - ensures the survival of the species, overwhelming potential predators with their sheer volume.</p>



<p>Furthermore, the selection of prime numbers for their cyclical emergence baffles and intrigues scientists, pointing to a sophisticated evolutionary strategy to evade synchronized predation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cicadas-take-the-stage">Cicadas take the stage</h2>



<p>The mating rituals of cicadas are as fascinating as their survival strategies. The chorus that fills the air is a mating call, with each species of cicada contributing its unique song to attract a mate.</p>



<p>This cacophony, reaching levels as loud as 110 decibels, is a vital part of their reproductive process, culminating in the laying of eggs and the continuation of the cicada legacy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-wonder-of-biology">A wonder of biology</h2>



<p>Cicadas are not just a marvel of numbers and noise but also of biology. Their ability to feed on the nutrient-scarce part of trees, thanks to specialized pumps in their heads, sets them apart from other insects.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Furthermore, their excretion process, propelled by jet-like muscles, marks them as some of the animal kingdom's most powerful urinators.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pumps-in-the-head">Pumps in the head</h3>



<p>One of the cicadas' most extraordinary adaptations is their method of hydration. Unlike most insects that crave the sugary sap found in the phloem of trees, cicadas opt for the xylem tissue. This part of the tree primarily carries water with a scarce amount of nutrients.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The challenge of accessing fluid under negative pressure from the xylem is overcome by the cicada's remarkable anatomy. "The cicada can get the fluid because its outsized head has a pump," explained University of Alabama Huntsville entomologist Carrie Deans. This allows them to utilize their proboscis, akin to a tiny straw, to suck out the liquid, essentially spending their lives in a continuous cycle of drinking.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-phenomenon-of-urination">A phenomenon of urination</h3>



<p>The consequence of their constant hydration is an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cicada-urination-defies-what-scientists-thought-was-possible/">unparalleled ability</a> to urinate, eclipsing that of elephants and humans. Bhamla's research revealed that cicadas possess a muscle that expels waste at an astonishing rate. </p>



<p>The discovery was made amidst the Amazon's "weeping trees," which, as it turns out, were not crying but were showered in cicada urine. This phenomenon, often experienced as a light rain in forests populated by active cicadas, is humorously termed "cicada rain."</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zombie-cicadas">Zombie cicadas</h3>



<p>Cicadas are subject to a sexually transmitted disease caused by a fungus, rendering them into what can be described as "zombies." This affliction leads to the loss of their reproductive parts and ultimately sterilizes the insects.&nbsp;</p>



<p>John Cooley, an entomologist from the <a href="https://uconn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Connecticut</a>, has observed up to 10% infection rates in some areas. The fungus not only manipulates the cicadas for its proliferation but also has hallucinatory effects on potential avian predators, further aiding in its spread.</p>



<p>The life cycle and biology of cicadas, marked by such unique and bizarre characteristics, underscore the complexity of ecological systems and the ongoing fascination with these periodic visitors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Trillions of cicadas set to emerge in historic U.S. invasion

In the coming weeks, the United States is set to...

<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>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



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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>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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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>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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."</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>The forest was remarkably diverse. Scientists identified <em>Eospermatopteris</em>, 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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em>Current Biology</em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

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>



<p>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?</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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



<p><strong>Sources:</strong> <em>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.</em></p>



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



<p><strong>1. Is acid rain completely gone?</strong> 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.</p>



<p><strong>2. How long did solving take?</strong> 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.</p>



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



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



<p><strong>5. Could acid rain return?</strong> 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.</p>



<p><strong>6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"?</strong> 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></p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

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.

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https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex
</div></figure>



<p></p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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. </p>



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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



<p>-----</p>

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.

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https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU
</div></figure>



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



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

<p>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. </p>



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



<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>



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



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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).</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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>.</p>

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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?</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ACS Reactions</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

How does salt makes things taste better?

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>'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)."</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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<p>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.</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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."</p>



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



<p><em>Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



<p>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."</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



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



<p>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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>"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;</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Goddard</em></p>



<p><em>Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and Leah Hustak (STScI)</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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