If you’re a male gray frog trying to find a mate, you’d better have a fast and steady call. That’s what female treefrogs usually go for. But when the crowd gets loud and chaotic, things change. The males that don’t sound all that great? They suddenly have a shot.



In quiet situations where females only hear two males at once, their preferences are clear. They go for the one with the sharper, more rhythmic call. 



But when four or even eight males are calling at once, things get messy. Female choices become unpredictable. This isn’t just a frog issue - it ties into a broader idea that scientists call “choice overload.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-frogs-face-chaos-in-the-chorus">Frogs face chaos in the chorus</h2>



In nature, frogs gather in large, noisy groups called choruses. Picture a shallow pond in spring, with dozens of males calling out at the same time. It’s the frog equivalent of a dating scene in a packed nightclub.



The researchers found that the crowded conditions of these choruses might be too overwhelming for females to reliably pick the best mate. It’s not that they stop caring - it’s that they can’t tell who’s who.



Professor Jessie Tanner of the <a href="https://www.utk.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tennessee, Knoxville</a>, led a team studying how choice overload affects evolution.



“Because female mate choice can drive evolution, our results suggest that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unraveling-the-story-of-early-animal-evolution/">evolution</a> might happen more slowly than we thought before,” she said. 



“Some males that are fairly unattractive could still mate, especially if they take advantage of crowded spaces where females might be less able to discriminate between attractive and unattractive males.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-when-choices-are-too-hard">What happens when choices are too hard?</h2>



The idea of choice overload is pretty common in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/science-behind-predicting-and-changing-human-behavior/">human behavior</a>. You walk into a store to buy toothpaste and face 50 brands. You either freeze, grab something random, or walk away. Same goes for dating apps with endless swiping.



“We wanted to understand how having to make mating decisions in crowded environments, where choice overload could be a problem, might drive the evolution of calls,” Tanner explained. 



“Since males that are chosen by females pass on their genes to the next generation, this mate choice can cause the population to change over time.”



When animals, like people, face too many options, their decision-making can break down. That opens up a chance for less attractive mates to get picked - not because they became more appealing, but because the chooser got overwhelmed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choice-overload-in-other-animals">Choice overload in other animals</h2>



This isn’t just about frogs. Scientists are now looking at how this effect shows up in other animals. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bumblebees-increasingly-stressed-over-the-past-century/">Bumblebees</a>, for instance, are on the list. So are wood roaches.



“Our lab is working to understand how choice overload and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frogs-have-lungs-that-cancel-out-background-noise/">noise</a> may each contribute to the difficulty female treefrogs face in making mating decisions,” Tanner said. 



“We are also working to understand whether this choice overload is something that occurs generally in many different kinds of animals or is more specific to individual species.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simultaneous-cricket-songs">Simultaneous cricket songs </h2>



Tanner, who has a background in both psychology and biology, first got into animal behavior while studying mate choice as an undergrad. She later became interested in sound - especially how it plays into animal communication.



That led to earlier work on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-male-crickets-go-silent-how-females-adapt-and-respond/">crickets</a>. Like treefrogs, male crickets use sound to attract mates. A study on cricket mating showed that noisy environments might either block females from hearing calls or make them too confused to pick. It was hard to tell which was causing the problem.



“During that study, it became clear that our work was consistent with both the possibility that many simultaneous cricket songs created noise that made it hard for females to hear, and the possibility that the females were experiencing choice overload,” Tanner said. “Our current work looks to disentangle those ideas.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-average-becomes-good-enough">When average becomes good enough</h2>



The research adds a new layer to how scientists think about evolution. Normally, stronger signals - like a faster frog call - are expected to win out and spread through the population over time. 



But if crowded conditions keep females from consistently picking the top performers, evolution slows down. Mediocre traits stick around longer.



That changes the math for survival. In nature, being the best isn’t always enough - and sometimes, being just okay is good enough, especially if the crowd’s loud and the choices are many.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2025.0585" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a>.



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Frogs settle for average mates when dating gets too noisy

If you’re a male gray frog trying to find a mate, you’d better have a fast and steady call. That’s what female treefrogs usually go for. But when the crowd gets loud and chaotic, things change. The males that don’t sound all that great? They suddenly have a shot. In quiet situations where females only hear two males at once, their preferences are clear. They go for the one with the sharper, more rhythmic call. But when four or even eight males are calling at once, things...

The reproductive strategies of giant sea spiders in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-experienced-the-most-intense-heat-wave-ever-recorded/">Antarctica</a> have eluded scientists for more than a century. These creatures have remained a puzzle in marine biology, particularly regarding their breeding behaviors.&nbsp;



A recent expedition by researchers from <a href="https://manoa.hawaii.edu/">UH Mānoa</a> has shed new light on giant sea spiders. These insights could significantly impact our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-news-ocean-oxygen-loss-may-ultimately-reverse/">marine life</a> and ecosystems not just in Antarctica, but globally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polar-gigantism-nbsp">Polar gigantism&nbsp;</h2>



Sea spiders, scientifically known as pycnogonids, are marine invertebrates that bear a resemblance to the spiders found on land.&nbsp;



Most species of pycnogonids are diminutive, barely reaching the size of a fingernail. However, the sea spiders found in the Antarctic defy this norm, showcasing what is known as "polar gigantism."&nbsp;



This phenomenon leads to certain species in polar regions growing to sizes far exceeding those of their relatives in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-struggling-to-breathe-store-co2-hotter-climate/">warmer climates</a>. Some Antarctic sea spiders have leg spans that extend over a foot.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysterious-breeding-behaviors-nbsp">Mysterious breeding behaviors&nbsp;</h2>



“In most sea spiders, the male parent takes care of the babies by carrying them around while they develop,” said lead researcher Professor Amy Moran. “What’s weird is that despite descriptions and research going back over 140 years, no one had ever seen the giant Antarctic sea spiders brooding their young or knew anything about their development.”



Professor Moran’s lab has been studying polar gigantism for more than a decade. The team embarked on a research expedition to the remote continent in October 2021. The goal was to uncover the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-level-rise-threatens-turtle-breeding-grounds/">breeding</a> behaviors of these colossal sea spiders - a task that had baffled scientists for generations.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remarkable-discovery-in-sea-spiders">Remarkable discovery in sea spiders</h2>



The researchers, including PhD students Aaron Toh and Graham Lobert, collected groups of giant sea spiders that appeared to be mating. Upon transporting the specimens to observation tanks, the team made an amazing discovery.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0ocwX9CvLu-3406424-12187" type="single"]</div>



Thousands of tiny eggs were produced by rwo different mating groups. In this case, one parent (presumably the male) anchored the eggs to the rocky seabed. Here, the eggs remained for several months, developing in isolation before hatching into minuscule larvae.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-opportunity">Unique opportunity </h2>



“We were so lucky to be able to see this,” said Toh. “The opportunity to work directly with these amazing animals in Antarctica meant we could learn things no one had ever even guessed.”



Within weeks, microscopic algae had grown up over the eggs, providing the perfect camouflage. “We could hardly see the eggs even when we knew they were there, which is probably why researchers had never seen this before,” said Lobert.



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



The study of giant sea spiders contributes valuable insights into the biodiversity and ecological dynamics of marine ecosystems.&nbsp;



By understanding how these creatures live, feed, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elephant-seals-prioritize-survival-over-reproduction/">reproduce</a>, scientists can gain a better understanding of the health and stability of ocean environments, which are increasingly under threat from climate change and human activities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giant-sea-spiders-nbsp">Giant sea spiders&nbsp;</h2>



Giant sea spiders inhabit the depths of oceans around the world. These fascinating creatures, despite their name, are not true spiders but belong to a distinct class of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-urbanization-shape-arthropod-communities/">arthropods</a>. They possess long, slender legs that can span up to about 27.5 inches in the largest species.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sea-spider-body-structure">Sea spider body structure </h3>



Researchers study giant sea spiders for their unique physiological and biological characteristics. One of the most intriguing aspects of these sea creatures is their highly simplified body structure.&nbsp;



Their bodies consist of a small torso from which their long legs extend, and they have a proboscis that allows them to suck nutrients from their prey, which includes soft-bodied invertebrates like worms and jellyfish.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-circulatory-system-of-sea-spiders">Circulatory system of sea spiders</h3>



Another fascinating feature of the giant sea spider is its circulatory system. Unlike most animals, sea spiders pump blood and oxygen not only through their heart but also through a complex system that involves movement in their legs, a process that researchers are still trying to fully understand. This unique method of circulation helps them survive in the oxygen-poor depths of the ocean.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diverse-habitats">Diverse habitats</h3>



Giant sea spiders thrive in a variety of marine environments, from shallow coral reefs to the dark, cold abyss of the Antarctic waters. Their ability to adapt to such diverse conditions speaks to the evolutionary success of this ancient group of arthropods, which has existed for hundreds of millions of years.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ecy.4258">Ecology</a>.&nbsp;



Video Credit: UH Mānoa 



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Giant sea spiders have surprising breeding behaviors

The reproductive strategies of giant sea spiders in Antarctica have...

Within the realm of plants known for their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/masters-of-deception-orchids-use-trickery-to-get-what-they-need/">deceptive pollination</a> strategies, a team from <a href="https://www.kobe-u.ac.jp/en/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe University</a> has discovered a species that transforms its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flowers-blooming-92-days-earlier-due-to-climate-change/">flowers</a> into a nurturing space rather than a fatal trap. 



This finding challenges the traditional dichotomy of mutualism and parasitism, illuminating the intricate evolution of plant-pollinator relationships.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-fatal-trap">A fatal trap</h2>



Most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-capture-plant-communication-on-video/">plants</a> engage animals for pollination by offering them rewards. However, the Arisaema genus stands out for its unique approach, trapping pollinators to ensure <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weevils-the-unknown-and-underappreciated-pollination-heroes/">pollination</a> at a fatal cost.&nbsp;



“It is famous as the only plant that achieves pollination at the expense of the pollinator's life,” said Kobe University biologist Suetsugu Kenji. The plant entices fungus gnats with its musky scent, only to trap them inescapably within its female flowers.



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



Driven by a commitment to expand the boundaries of pollination biology, Suetsugu and his team delved into the genus Arisaema. The goal was to uncover more complex interactions.&nbsp;



The research focused on the species A. thunbergii, commonly known as Asian jack-in-the-pulpit. The team investigated the fate of both male and female flowers and the insects ensnared by them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-survival-and-escape">Survival and escape</h2>



The study revealed that the primary pollinator, the fungus gnat Leia ishitanii, uses the flowers as a breeding ground. The larvae feed on the decaying floral matter and eventually emerge as adults.&nbsp;



Intriguingly, some gnats were observed escaping from flowers unharmed, suggesting a possibility of survival and escape from the floral trap.



“This finding adds a new dimension to our knowledge of plant-insect interactions," Suetsugu remarked, highlighting the continuous potential for discovery within well-explored fields.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-nursery-pollination-mutualism">Evolution of nursery pollination mutualism</h2>



Suetsugu argued that the relationship between A. thunbergii and its pollinators might not fully align with typical nursery mutualism. Trapped gnats lose future reproductive opportunities, yet some level of mutual benefit exists, unseen in other Arisaema species.



Thus, this interaction may represent a transitional phase in the evolution of nursery pollination mutualism, suggesting a shift from deceptive to mutualistic relationships.&nbsp;



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



According to Suetsugu, further examination of the Arisaema genus may reveal more examples of such complex interactions, underscoring the importance of revisiting and refining models of pollination biology to encompass a broader spectrum of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urbanization-alters-the-dynamics-of-plant-pollinator-networks/">plant-pollinator dynamics</a>.



Through this research, the scientists not only challenge established notions in pollination biology but also contribute to a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the ongoing dance between plants and their pollinators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Plant-pollinator relationships</h2>



Plant-pollinator relationships form the cornerstone of ecosystems and biodiversity, acting as essential mechanisms for the reproduction of many flowering plants. In these relationships, pollinators such as bees, butterflies, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-years-fireworks-send-millions-of-birds-on-erratic-flights/">birds</a>, and bats visit flowers to feed on their nectar and pollen.&nbsp;



During their visits, pollinators inadvertently transfer pollen from the male parts of one flower (the anthers) to the female parts of another (the stigma), facilitating cross-pollination. This process is crucial for the production of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chia-seeds-have-great-potential-to-improve-human-health/">seeds</a> and fruits, ensuring the continuation of plant species.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Attracting pollinators</h3>



Flowering plants have evolved a variety of strategies to attract their specific pollinators. For instance, they exhibit brightly colored petals and produce alluring scents to draw in bees and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monarch-butterflies-with-more-white-spots-are-more-likely-to-survive-their-migration-journey/">butterflies</a>. Some plants, like the night-blooming jasmine, release their fragrance at night to attract nocturnal pollinators such as moths and bats.&nbsp;



Others have developed shapes and structures that cater to the feeding habits of their pollinators, ensuring an effective transfer of pollen. For example, tubular flowers are perfectly shaped for hummingbirds. Their long beaks can reach the nectar at the base, while simultaneously coming into contact with the pollen.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Mutual benefits&nbsp;</h3>



The benefits of plant-pollinator relationships are mutual. While plants receive pollination, essential for their reproductive success, pollinators gain access to vital food resources. Nectar provides them with energy in the form of sugars, and pollen offers proteins and fats, crucial for their diet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Growing threats</h2>



However, threats from habitat loss, pesticide use, pollution, and climate change endanger the survival of both plants and their pollinators. The decline in pollinator populations poses a significant risk to global food security.&nbsp;



Conservation efforts are therefore critical to protect these relationships, ensuring the sustainability of natural ecosystems and agricultural systems alike.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/PPP3.10494" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plants, People, Planet</a>.



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New twist in the evolution of plant-pollinator relationships

Within the realm of plants known for their deceptive pollination...

Desert locusts, recognized by the U.N.'s Food and Agriculture Organization as the most destructive migratory pest in the world, have been identified as a growing threat due to climate change. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-insect-decline-what-are-the-causes-and-consequences/">insects</a> are capable of traveling in swarms of millions and devastating crops across vast regions.&nbsp;



The experts report that outbreaks of desert locusts could increase in frequency and severity due to erratic weather patterns fueled by global warming.&nbsp;



In particular, the researchers found that extreme weather events such as increased rainfall and extreme wind conditions may lead to bigger and worse desert locust outbreaks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increasingly-difficult-outbreaks-nbsp">Increasingly difficult outbreaks&nbsp;</h2>



Desert locusts are found in dry areas of northern and eastern Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. They thrive in conditions where extreme rainfall follows prolonged periods of aridity. These conditions create ideal breeding grounds for these pests.



A square-kilometer swarm contains 80 million locusts. In a single day, this swarm can wipe out enough food crops to feed 35,000 people. The study authors said these outbreaks will be increasingly hard to prevent and control in a warming climate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-major-hotspots-for-desert-locusts">Major hotspots for desert locusts</h2>



With an analysis of incidents from 1985 to 2020, the study underscores a significant correlation between climate change and locust outbreaks. Notably, the researchers identified ten countries, including Kenya, Morocco, Niger, Yemen, and Pakistan, as major hotspots among 48 affected nations.&nbsp;



The research brings to light the worst outbreak in 25 years, which struck East Africa in 2019 and 2020. The outbreak caused unprecedented agricultural damage and threatened the livelihoods of millions by impacting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fungal-infections-are-threatening-global-food-security/">food security</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-favorable-conditions-for-outbreaks-nbsp">Favorable conditions for outbreaks&nbsp;</h2>



Professor Xiaogang He at the <a href="https://nus.edu.sg/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National University of Singapore</a>, who led the research, said more extreme weather events will add unpredictability to locust outbreaks.&nbsp;



The researchers linked the magnitude of desert locust outbreaks to specific weather and land conditions, such as air <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-global-temperature-exceeded-2c-for-the-first-time/">temperature</a>, precipitation, soil moisture, and wind patterns. The study also highlights the role of El Niño in exacerbating the conditions favorable for locust outbreaks.



Douglas Tallamy is a professor of Entomology at the University of Delaware who was not part of the research. He noted that erratic weather and rainfall trigger spurts in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegetation-impacts-energy-movement-in-the-arctic/">vegetation</a> and therefore fuels enormous population growth in locusts. "As such variability increases, it is logical to predict that locust outbreaks will increase as well," said Tallamy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-impacts-and-food-security-nbsp">Economic impacts and food security&nbsp;</h2>



The financial implications of locust outbreaks are staggering, with past events costing hundreds of millions in response efforts and causing billions in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/laser-scarecrows-could-revolutionize-crop-protection/">crop damage</a>. This study highlights the urgent need for action against climate change. The research also underscores the urgent need for adaptive strategies to combat the threat of desert locust outbreaks.&nbsp;



As the habitats of these pests expand and the frequency of extreme weather events rises, the global community faces a critical challenge in safeguarding food production systems against the looming threat of increased locust activity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-desert-locust-swarms">Broader implications of desert locust swarms</h2>



Countries affected by desert locust outbreaks are already grappling with climate-driven extremes like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flash-droughts-are-becoming-the-new-normal/">droughts</a>, floods and heat waves, and the potential escalation of locust risks in these regions could exacerbate existing challenges, said Professor He. "Failure to address these risks could further strain food production systems and escalate the severity of global food insecurity."



He hopes the study will help countries understand the climate impacts on locusts, particularly in the context of food security. He also urges for better regional and continental cooperation to respond quickly and build early warning systems.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adj1164" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Extreme weather dramatically increases the threat of desert locust swarms

Desert locusts, recognized by the U.N.'s Food and Agriculture Organization...

In the fascinating world of animal cognition, new research from <a href="https://oakland.edu/index" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oakland University</a> sheds light on the cognitive capacity of exotic cats. 



The study reveals that non-domesticated Felidae species have the remarkable ability to distinguish between the voices of familiar and unfamiliar humans.



A research team led by Professor Jennifer Vonk and graduate student Taylor Crews set out to investigate the voice recognition abilities among Felidae, a family that includes exotic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/free-ranging-cats-are-one-of-the-most-problematic-invasive-species/">cats</a> such as Bengal, Savannah and Serval <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/declawing-large-cats-is-a-cruel-practice-with-shocking-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cats</a>, along with lions, tigers, and cheetahs.



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



"There is little investigation of vocal recognition in exotic cats despite their prevalence in human care. The current study extends this research to 25 individuals of 10 non-domesticated felid species housed in human care," wrote the study authors.



"The cat family, or Felidae, are of interest given their relatively asocial natural history coupled with their close association with humans in modern society."



The researchers designed experiments to study the extent to which the animals could recognize and distinguish between the voices of their human caregivers.



The experts found that the cats showed a quicker, more intense, and prolonged response to voices they recognized, indicating a clear ability to discriminate familiar sounds from those of strangers.&nbsp;



This was observed regardless of whether the cats were called by their names or their rearing histories, pointing to an innate ability rather than one solely shaped by individual experiences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-profound-revelations-about-exotic-cats">Profound revelations about exotic cats</h2>



One of the most profound revelations of Professor Vonk's work is the assertion that close human contact, rather than domestication, is associated with the ability of cats to discriminate between human voices.&nbsp;



This challenges the long-held belief that domestication is the primary driver of such cognitive abilities in animals. Furthermore, the study disrupts the stereotype of less social species being devoid of complex socio-cognitive skills.&nbsp;



"Non-group-living animals can exhibit social cognitive abilities such as heterospecific vocal recognition so we should not neglect the study of social cognition in less highly social species," said Professor Vonk.



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



Considering the widespread housing of cats of all species in human care, the implications of this research are profound. The experts said that future studies are needed to determine whether cats also respond to familiar voices speaking unfamiliar phrases.



"This study contributes to the growing literature suggesting that adapting to a social lifestyle and human domestication are not the only important factors in predicting social cognitive abilities even when considering the ability to read human communicative cues specifically," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"Exposure to humans may promote the development of abilities that researchers would not be able to observe in the wild, such as the ability of cats to discriminate familiar human voices. This study adds to the growing body of work showing that even non-domestic cats are not indifferent to familiar humans and may help dispel the notion that cats are aloof."



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



As discussed above, exotic cats, with their unique patterns, mysterious origins, and behaviors that echo their wild ancestors, captivate the hearts of enthusiasts and pet owners worldwide. 



These creatures, ranging from the well-known Bengal and Savannah to the lesser-known Caracal and <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/savannah-cats-vs-servals-theyre-not-the-same/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Serval</a>, bring a slice of the wild into our homes. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-defining-exotic-cats">Defining exotic cats</h3>



Exotic cats refer to a group of felines that possess a distinctive wild lineage. These cats often exhibit physical and behavioral traits reminiscent of their wild ancestors. 



The term can encompass hybrid breeds, such as the Bengal cat, which results from crossing domestic cats with wild Asian leopard cats, and purebred species that have been domesticated, like the Serval.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-popular-exotic-cat-breeds">Popular exotic cat breeds</h3>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bengal-cats">Bengal Cats</h4>



Bengal cats stand out with their striking leopard-like spots and vibrant personalities. They are highly active and require significant interaction and mental stimulation. Their intelligence and playful nature make them excellent companions for those willing to engage with their energetic spirits.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-savannah-cats">Savannah Cats</h4>



Savannah cats, a cross between a domestic cat and an African Serval, boast tall, lean bodies and large ears. They are known for their loyalty, often compared to dogs in their willingness to follow their owners and participate in household activities. Their high energy levels and curiosity necessitate a stimulating environment.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-caracal-cats">Caracal Cats</h4>



Though less common, Caracal cats are gaining popularity. Native to Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia, these medium-sized wild cats are known for their distinctive tufted ears. While owning a Caracal is subject to strict regulations in many countries, enthusiasts admire them for their majestic appearance and agile prowess.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-care-and-requirements">Care and requirements</h3>



Caring for exotic cats goes beyond the responsibilities of owning a typical domestic cat. These animals often require special diets that replicate their natural carnivorous feeding patterns in the wild. 



Additionally, they need ample space to explore and exercise, along with enrichment activities to satisfy their instinctual hunting behaviors. Prospective owners must thoroughly research and prepare to meet these needs.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ethical-considerations-and-legalities">Ethical considerations and legalities</h3>



The ownership of exotic cats comes with significant ethical considerations. It's crucial to ensure that owning such a pet does not contribute to the endangerment of wild species. 



Many countries and states have stringent regulations or outright bans on owning certain exotic breeds, aimed at protecting both the animals and the public. 



Before deciding to bring an exotic cat into your home, it's essential to understand and comply with these regulations.



In summary, exotic cats offer a unique connection to the natural world, blending the mysterious allure of the wild with the affectionate bonds of domestic companionship. 



However, they require dedicated care, respect for their needs, and a commitment to ethical ownership. For those drawn to their wild beauty and spirited natures, exotic cats can make rewarding, if challenging, companions.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.7717/peerj.16904" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PeerJ Life &amp; Environment</a>.



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Exotic cats have surprising voice recognition ability 

In the fascinating world of animal cognition, new research from...

Life on Earth unfolds at wildly different speeds. Towering trees live for centuries, while mayflies die young.



Considering this, scientists at the <a href="https://www.senckenberg.de/en/institutes/sbik-f/">Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre</a> set out to understand how different living creatures experience time.



The "slow-fast continuum of life" shows incredible variation and reveals how life has adapted over time. Studying this framework sheds light on individual species, and also on how whole <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atmospheric-dust-plays-surprisingly-crucial-role-in-stabilizing-ocean-ecosystems/">ecosystems</a> work.



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



The scientists looked at 2,800 different living things (from tiny microbes to big <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolutionary-mystery-why-are-mammals-the-only-vertebrates-to-have-only-one-lower-jawbone/">mammals</a>) across 14 groups.&nbsp;



"We examined organisms from all areas of the sampled ecosystems - from microorganisms in the soil to plants, butterflies, and other arthropods, to birds and bats," explained study co-author Dr. Margot Neyret from the <a href="https://www.univ-grenoble-alpes.fr/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Grenoble Alpes</a>.



The researchers gathered information on how long the organisms live, how fast they grow, how often they <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elephant-seals-prioritize-survival-over-reproduction/">reproduce</a>, and how much they contribute to the environment (like turning dead leaves into soil).



By crunching all this data, the experts created a map showing how long each creature lives. This helped the scientists understand how different living things change their life strategies based on where they live and their surroundings.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-slow-fast-continuum-of-living-creatures">Slow-fast continuum of living creatures</h2>



By looking at the different organisms, the researchers discovered a consistent pattern. No matter where they lived or what they ate, all of the creatures could be placed on a spectrum ranging from slow-living (they had long lifespans and slow reproduction) to fast-living (short lifespans and frequent reproduction).



It’s more like a sliding scale - on one end, there are “slow livers” like tortoises that live for decades and rarely reproduce.&nbsp;On the other end, there are insects buzzing through life in mere months, having tons of babies.&nbsp;



Most living creatures fall somewhere in between, adapting their growth, reproduction, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breathing-less-oxygen-could-extend-your-lifespan-by-50-or-more/">lifespan</a> to their environment.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-interventions">Human interventions</h2>



The study also revealed that dramatic alterations in nature’s landscapes, such as through intensive farming, mainly hurt creatures who live slowly. These creatures take longer to grow up and have fewer babies. They are not “quick” at adjusting.



The findings indicate that faster-living creatures, who can adjust quickly, take over and become dominant. However, they might not have as much diversity. The shift towards fast life makes nature less varied, which could hurt its ability to bounce back from imbalances.



"You can visualize this like the fable of the hare and the tortoise- except that, depending on the environment, the 'race' is sometimes 'won' by organisms with one strategy and sometimes by those following the other," said study lead author Dr. Peter Manning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balance-is-necessary">Balance is necessary</h2>



Healthy ecosystems need variety. When both slow and fast creatures live together, they handle variations like climate or landscape changes better.&nbsp;



Slow-living beings, like trees, literally take it slow, but such creatures play a big role in keeping <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-fifth-force-of-nature-subatomic-particles-are-defying-the-laws-of-physics/">nature</a> stable. Fast ones, like insects, help with essential services like clean air and soil health.



The fast-slow ecosystem team gets weaker without the "slow" players. This study reminds us to protect all kinds of creatures, slow and fast, to keep our natural world strong and healthy. The balance is crucial for a resilient and functional ecosystem, and ultimately benefits everyone.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-45113-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Fast and slow-living creatures balance a healthy planet

Life on Earth unfolds at wildly different speeds. Towering trees...

In an astonishing revelation, a Tridentinosaurus antiquus fossil that has mystified scientists for nearly a century has been partially exposed as a forgery. 



This 280-million-year-old specimen was discovered in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oldest-large-predator-dinosaur/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Italian Alps</a> in 1931 and has since played a pivotal role in our understanding of early reptile evolution. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fascination-with-tridentinosaurus-antiquus">The fascination with Tridentinosaurus antiquus</h2>



Initially hailed for its remarkable preservation, including what appeared to be soft tissues, the fossil's true nature has come to light thanks to the meticulous work of Dr. Valentina Rossi and her team at University College Cork, Ireland (<a href="https://www.ucc.ie/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCC</a>).



For decades, Tridentinosaurus antiquus was celebrated in scientific circles as a critical piece of the puzzle in reptile ancestry. 



Its dark outline against the rock was thought to represent preserved soft tissues, leading to its classification within the Protorosauria group of reptiles. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behind-the-paint-shocking-forgery-revelation">Behind the paint: Shocking forgery revelation</h2>



However, new research published in the journal Palaeontology has debunked this long-held belief, revealing that the fossil's "remarkable preservation" was, in fact, the result of black paint on a lizard-shaped rock surface.



Dr. Rossi, from UCC’s School of Biological, Earth, and Environmental Sciences, emphasized the importance of detailed examination in uncovering the truth. 



"Fossil soft tissues are rare, but when found in a fossil they can reveal important biological information, for instance, the external coloration, internal anatomy and physiology," she explained. 



"The answer to all our questions was right in front of us, we had to study this fossil specimen in details to reveal its secrets -- even those that perhaps we did not want to know."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-modern-science-in-exposing-the-truth">Role of modern science in exposing the truth</h2>



The team's microscopic analysis indicated a stark difference in texture and composition between the supposed fossilized soft tissues and genuine specimens. 



A preliminary investigation using UV photography further revealed that the entire specimen had been coated, a practice once common for preserving fossils in museums. 



This discovery dashed hopes that beneath the coating, original soft tissues might still be intact, offering valuable paleobiological insights.



This revelation has significant implications for the scientific community, prompting a call for caution in future research involving this specimen. 



The investigation, which included contributions from Italy's <a href="https://www.unipd.it/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Padua</a>, Museum of Nature South Tyrol, and Museo delle Scienze in Trento, highlights the necessity of skepticism and verification in scientific inquiry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cautionary-tale-the-legacy-of-tridentinosaurus-antiquus">Cautionary tale: The legacy of Tridentinosaurus antiquus</h2>



Despite the forgery, the research team found that not all was lost. The fossil's hindlimb bones, particularly the femurs, were determined to be genuine, albeit poorly preserved. 



Additionally, the team discovered the presence of tiny bony scales, or osteoderms, similar to those of crocodiles, on what is believed to be the animal's back. 



These findings provide a silver lining, offering new avenues for understanding the creature's biology and evolution.



Co-author Prof. Evelyn Kustatscher, involved in the "Living with the supervolcano" project funded by the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, reflected on the discovery.



“The peculiar preservation of Tridentinosaurus had puzzled experts for decades. Now, it all makes sense. What it was described as carbonized skin, is just paint," Kustatscher said.



In summary, this study serves as a testament to the power of modern analytical paleontology and rigorous scientific methods in solving long-standing mysteries. 



By exposing the Tridentinosaurus antiquus fossil as a forgery, the research team has corrected a historical misconception and reinforced the importance of integrity and thoroughness in scientific exploration.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pala.12690" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paleontology</a>.



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280-million-year-old fossil of Tridentinosaurus antiquus proven to be a forgery

In an astonishing revelation, a Tridentinosaurus antiquus fossil that has...

In the quest to unravel the complexities of male infertility, a research team led by Professor Hubert Pausch of ETH Zurich has turned to an unlikely source for insights: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bull-stampede-bison-behavior-hinders-aspen-recovery-in-yellowstone/">bulls</a>.&nbsp;



The research not only sheds light on the genetic underpinnings of male fertility but also paves the way for potential advancements in human fertility research and livestock breeding practices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-background-nbsp">Study background&nbsp;</h2>



Infertility affects approximately one in eight couples globally, with male fertility issues contributing to half of these cases. However, identifying the genetic causes behind such fertility disorders in humans has been a significant challenge due to the lack of comprehensive data on semen quality and molecular markers from large cohorts of healthy, reproductive-aged men.&nbsp;



This gap in knowledge has led researchers to explore alternative avenues, with the study on young bulls emerging as a pivotal step towards understanding the genes and mechanisms controlling male fertility.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-research-nbsp">Focus of the research&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers analyzed tissue samples from the testicles, epididymis, and vas deferens of 118 freshly slaughtered bulls of reproductive age. Importantly, these animals were not killed specifically for the study, mitigating ethical concerns.&nbsp;



Based on their analysis, the experts were able to characterize the transcriptomes - the complete set of messenger RNA molecules - of the tissues. This made it possible to identify active genes within the reproductive organs and their impact on fertility.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-insights">Key insights</h2>



The study revealed a multitude of genes and their variants associated with fertility in bulls, many of which are also likely relevant to human male fertility. According to Xena Mapel, the study's first author, the regulation of male fertility is "highly conserved" across mammals, suggesting a fundamental similarity in reproductive gene function among species.&nbsp;



“These genes are closely linked to poor fertility in bulls,” said Mapel. “Such subfertile bulls don’t show up during conventional ejaculate screening. However, they can be reliably detected with our new marker genes.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-of-studying-male-fertility">Challenges of studying male fertility</h2>



Cattle, despite being an unconventional choice for such studies, offer unique advantages. Their genetic makeup is well-documented, and the regular collection and analysis of ejaculate for breeding purposes provide a rich data source for research.&nbsp;



This contrasts with the challenges of studying human male fertility, where data comparability and the invasive nature of obtaining reproductive tissue samples pose significant obstacles.



“We don’t know what influences the men were exposed to before they took the fertility test, which will be different for every test subject. Furthermore, it’s practically impossible to obtain tissue samples from their reproductive tract, as that would entail an invasive medical procedure,” noted the researchers.



The greatest advantage of the bull cohort analyzed for the study is that all the animals are similar in age. “This cohort is very homogeneous. If we had to carry out a comparable study on men, we’d have to rely on voluntary donors, potentially across all possible age groups. This would give us data that’s very difficult to compare.”



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



For human fertility studies, while the immediate application of these findings remains uncertain, they offer a promising foundation for future research into the genetic factors influencing male fertility.&nbsp;



On the other hand, livestock breeders stand to benefit directly from these insights. By integrating the new genetic markers into bull breeding programs, breeders can more accurately identify fertile bulls, significantly reducing the financial losses associated with unsuccessful artificial inseminations.



Artificial insemination is a cornerstone of modern livestock breeding, with around 800,000 cows artificially inseminated annually in Switzerland alone.&nbsp;



The economic impact of using semen from subfertile bulls is substantial, not only in terms of the direct costs of insemination but also due to the broader financial implications of reduced milk production and the need to replace non-pregnant cows. The study's findings have the potential to enhance breeding efficiency and sustainability in the livestock industry.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-%E2%80%8B024-44935-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>. 



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Bulls are helping solve the mysteries of male infertility

In the quest to unravel the complexities of male infertility,...

The,Great,Migration,,Serengeti,National,Park,,Tanzania

The Great Migration is a remarkable phenomenon that takes place each year in the Serengeti National Park and involves more than two million animals.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-links-zebras-to-sperm-swimming-science-never-ceases-to-amaze/">Zebras</a>, wildebeest, and gazelle follow the same migratory routes, one after another, in a body-size dependent way. This "grazing succession" has long puzzled scientists, especially considering that the animals are sharing limited food resources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grazing-succession-nbsp">Grazing succession&nbsp;</h2>



A recent study led by Michael Anderson of <a href="https://www.wfu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wake Forest University</a> has shed light on the intricate dynamics that govern this grazing succession, revealing a complex interplay of competition and facilitation at work.



During this migratory journey, animals of varying body sizes follow one another in a specific order due to differences in their grazing habits and the impact on the vegetation. 



The Serengeti's zebra, weighing approximately 230 kilograms, lead the migration, followed by the wildebeest at about 180 kilograms, and finally, the much smaller gazelle, weighing around 20 kilograms.&nbsp;



This sequential movement has intrigued researchers, leading to the question: Why do these species, competing for limited food resources, migrate in such a harmonized manner?



"Disentangling the potential mechanisms that drive the movement patterns, arrival times, and foraging behaviors of the three migrating species has been hampered by a lack of long-term, detailed data at the appropriate scale," said the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-migration-patterns">Animal migration patterns</h2>



To investigate, the team used a variety of modern research tools including an 8-year camera-trap survey, GPS-collared animal tracking, and fecal DNA metabarcoding.&nbsp;



This innovative approach allowed the team to analyze the timing, arrival, and interactions among the zebra, wildebeest, and gazelle with unprecedented detail. 



The findings offer a new perspective on the drivers behind the migratory patterns of these herbivores.



The research highlights a delicate balance between competitive and facilitative interactions among the species. Zebras, it appears, are pushed ahead in the migration by competition for food resources with wildebeest. 



As the dominant grazers, wildebeest play a central role in this ecosystem, shaping the environment in a way that both challenges and benefits their fellow migrants. 



By grazing, wildebeest reduce grass biomass, which in turn stimulates the growth of new vegetation. This newer growth is then ideally suited for the trailing gazelle, who specialize in capitalizing on such opportunities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-push-and-pull-dynamic-of-grazing-succession">Push-and-pull dynamic of grazing succession</h2>



This "push-and-pull" dynamic, as the researchers describe, underscores the complexity of ecological interactions and the role of facilitation in maintaining the balance of ecosystems. 



Interestingly, the study found no evidence that predation influences the order of grazing succession, a factor that has been considered in previous theories.



Furthermore, the team observed that external factors like wildfires and rainfall have a significant impact on successional grazing patterns.&nbsp;



Intense wildfires and periods of rainfall were found to strengthen the observed patterns, suggesting that environmental conditions play a crucial role in shaping the migratory behaviors of these species.



“Our results highlight a balance between facilitative and competitive forces,” said the researchers, emphasizing the nuanced relationship between the species and their environment.&nbsp;



The study not only deepens our understanding of migration and grazing patterns in the Serengeti and illustrates the importance of long-term, detailed data in unraveling the complex mechanisms that govern natural ecosystems.



"Multiple lines of evidence point to a 'push-and-pull' dynamic in which wildebeest, the dominant grazer, push zebra ahead by reducing grass biomass while pulling along gazelle through facilitation," wrote the study authors.



"Our study helps to reconcile decades of conflicting results by demonstrating that competition and facilitation operate concurrently during animal migration with effect sizes that depend on resource availability."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-chapter-for-the-serengeti">A new chapter for the Serengeti</h2>



In summary, this important research by Wake Forest University challenges the conventional wisdom of harmonious interspecies relationships with compelling evidence of competition. 



By utilizing an extensive array of data collection methods, the team has unveiled the complex interplay between wildebeests and zebras, fundamentally altering our perception of ecological interactions and migration patterns. 



Their findings illuminate the intricacies of animal behavior in one of the world's most iconic ecosystems and offer invaluable insights for global conservation efforts and ecosystem management in the face of changing environmental conditions. 



This research underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in uncovering the truths of nature, marking a significant advancement in our quest to comprehend and preserve the natural world.



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adg0744" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>. 



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Driving force discovered behind mass migration of large grazing animals

The Great Migration is a remarkable phenomenon that takes place...

In the UK countryside, there are two types of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/squirrels-gamble-to-increase-evolutionary-fitness/">squirrels</a>: red and grey. However, they do not coexist peacefully. Since the arrival of the larger grey squirrel from North America in the 1800s, the native red squirrel population has sadly declined. 



There are two main reasons for this decline: the squirrels struggle for resources like food, and the grey squirrels carry a virus called squirrelpox that only harms the red squirrels.



Recently, scientists from the <a href="https://www.surrey.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Surrey</a>, <a href="https://www.bangor.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bangor University</a> and the <a href="https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Liverpool</a> discovered a surprising third reason: tiny gut bacteria might be helping one side win the battle. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-gut-bacteria">Studying gut bacteria</h2>



The researchers studied the bacteria in the guts (caeca) of the animals. Following ethical guidelines, they obtained squirrel remains from North Wales and collected gut samples from ten red and ten grey squirrels.&nbsp;



The DNA of the samples was then extracted using a technique called 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The researchers also checked for antibiotic resistance of the gut bacteria. They specifically focused on E. coli, a type of bacteria that can sometimes cause illness.



Finally, they compared all of the different bacteria found. The goal was to understand how these tiny residents might be influencing the overall health of their furry hosts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbiome-differences">Microbiome differences</h2>



The researchers found fascinating differences between the two types of squirrels. In particular, they determined that grey squirrels have more diverse gut bacteria.&nbsp;



The scientists also compared the specific types of bacteria and found distinct differences. Grey squirrels have more bacteria from groups like S24-7, RF39, and Rikenellaceae, while red squirrels have more Bacilli.



This difference could impact how well the squirrels fight off diseases and how they interact with their environment.



For example, the bacteria in grey squirrels can digest a compound called "calcium oxalate" found in tree bark. This allows them to extract calcium more efficiently, potentially giving them an advantage over red squirrels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antibiotic-resistance">Antibiotic resistance</h2>



Unfortunately, all of the bacteria from both squirrel types could resist a common medicine called “amoxicillin/clavulanic acid.”



Even worse, some of the grey squirrels had bacteria that could beat stronger medicines like "cefotaxime" and "sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim." This means the helpful bacteria living inside these squirrels had tricks to avoid the effects of these medicines.



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



“More research needs to be done to further understand the relationship between red and grey squirrels and their gut microbiota, but perhaps in the future we could develop this research into methods that could promote healthy gut bacteria in red squirrels or new ways of preventing squirrels from damaging trees," said study co-author Chris Nichols.



“These findings will help further our understanding of the impact grey squirrels have on the UK’s red squirrel population and our vitally important trees and forests, which will in turn help us understand how best to protect them in the future," concluded Professor Ian Brown of the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency">Animal and Plant Health Agency</a>.



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



Red squirrels, native to the UK, are known for their distinctive rich red fur, tufted ears, and bushy tails. They are smaller than the grey squirrel and are found mainly in areas of Scotland, the Lake District, and parts of Wales and England, particularly in coniferous forest habitats which provide their preferred food sources such as seeds from pine cones.&nbsp;



The red squirrel is an iconic species in the UK, celebrated for its playful nature and agility. Conservation efforts are underway to protect and increase the population of red squirrels. These efforts include habitat management, controlling grey squirrel populations, and reintroduction projects to areas where red squirrels have declined or disappeared.



The study is published in the <a href="https://doi.org/10.1099/jmm.0.001793%20%20%E2%80%8C" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Medical Microbiology.</a>



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The battle between squirrels is won through their gut bacteria

In the UK countryside, there are two types of squirrels:...

Cold-water corals are found in the depths of the world's oceans, hundreds of meters below the surface. These corals are far removed from the sunlit environments that nurture vibrant tropical reefs.



A new study from the <a href="https://www.rug.nl/?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Groningen</a> reveals the extraordinary lengths to which cold-water <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-corals-survive-warming-waters-by-remembering-heat-waves/">corals</a> go to survive and flourish, even as they face the looming threat of climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shadowy-realms-nbsp">Shadowy realms&nbsp;</h2>



Unlike their tropical counterparts, cold-water corals do not bask in sunlight nor engage in a symbiotic relationship with algae for their brilliant hues. Instead, they reside in the shadowy realms off coasts like Ireland's, creating their own spectacular ecosystems vital to the ocean's health.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-underwater-mountains-nbsp">Underwater mountains&nbsp;</h2>



The new <a href="https://research.rug.nl/en/publications/patterns-in-the-deep-sea-on-the-interaction-between-cold-water-co">study</a>, led by theoretical ecologist Anna van der Kaaden, highlights a peculiar behavior of these corals. In their quest for sustenance, they build vast underwater mountains, elevating themselves to capture more food carried by ocean currents.&nbsp;



These structures, formed over millennia, can surpass the height of the Eiffel Tower, showcasing the corals as "ecosystem engineers" who modify their environment to their advantage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-potential-trap">A potential trap</h2>



The irony of these monumental efforts is the potential trap they create for themselves. As Van der Kaaden points out, the very mountains that offer them abundant food and life might become their prisons. With the onset of climate change, warmer waters could compel the corals to seek cooler, deeper havens.



“When the water gets warmer, these creatures prefer to be deeper, but a coral doesn’t just walk down the mountain,” said Van der Kaaden.



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



Van der Kaaden conducted research on real reefs and using computational models. “In both cases, I tried to discover the spatial patterns in which the corals grow. With the Australian Great Barrier Reef, for example, this is very simple: you can even see their growth patterns from space." 



Van der Kaaden's exploration into the darkness wasn't straightforward. She ventured into what she describes as a dark maze. 



"With cold-water corals, you have to recognize these patterns while walking around in a pitch-dark maze, so to speak, with only a small flashlight. And yet, using statistical techniques and video stills, we did manage to get an overall picture."&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ingenious-adaptation-nbsp">Ingenious adaptation&nbsp;</h2>



The findings not only shed light on the regular patterns of reefs, ridges, and mountains formed by these corals but also on their ingenious adaptation to manipulate water currents for food.



"Over hundreds of thousands of years, the coral reefs form mountains that can grow higher than the Eiffel Tower. So, the corals get higher in the ocean, where there is more food, and those mountains also create water currents that transport the food to the mountain."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cold-blooded-animals">Cold-blooded animals</h2>



The expectation is that if the water becomes too warm due to climate change, the corals will want to grow lower and colder.&nbsp;



"A cold-blooded animal like a coral uses up too much energy in warmer water. But a coral is an animal that is attached to the bottom, so it can't just move down the mountain," said Van der Kaaden.



"It disperses through larvae, but for new corals, the food conditions on the flanks of a coral mountain are worse because of the specific flow patterns."



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



Despite the potential challenges posed by climate change, Van der Kaaden remains cautiously optimistic about the future of cold-water corals.



"Maybe these organisms are more resilient than we think, and if not, they might build new mountains or reefs in other places. But with this research, I do want to show that an organism's response to climate change is not always easy to predict."



"There are many complex processes that create unexpected obstacles or opportunities. We, as a society must take that into account when preparing for the effects of climate change."



Image Credit: NOAA Fisheries



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Cold-water corals build mountains to battle climate change 

Cold-water corals are found in the depths of the world's...

Scientists have made a thrilling discovery about the elusive Skywalker gibbons, confirming a significant population of these endangered <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/south-african-primates-face-multiple-threats/">primates</a> in Myanmar. The research was fueled by the unique "love songs" that are sung by gibbon couples each morning.



The study marks the first confirmation of the species in Myanmar in over a century and significantly expands our understanding of their distribution.



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



The Skywalker gibbon, named for the "Star Wars" saga, was recognized as a distinct species in 2017. At that time, fewer than 200 individuals were documented, all within China's borders. However, a recent study has shattered this geographic limitation, identifying new groups of Skywalker gibbons in Myanmar.&nbsp;



The researchers have unveiled the largest known population of Skywalker gibbons on Earth, previously believed to be confined to southwestern China.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-success-story-nbsp">Success story&nbsp;</h2>



The study was led by the Karen C. Drayer Wildlife Health Center at <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Davis</a> and the newly formed Myanmar Skywalker Gibbon Conservation Committee. Field expeditions were conducted by partner organizations, including Nature Conservation Society Myanmar and Fauna &amp; Flora International – Myanmar.



“We were able to genetically identify 44 new groups of Skywalker gibbons in Myanmar,” said senior author Tierra Smiley Evans. “This is a huge resource and success story for Myanmar.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-living-under-the-radar">Living under the radar</h2>



The exact number of Skywalker gibbons in these newly identified groups remains undetermined. However, their presence in areas previously thought to be inhabited by the Eastern hoolock gibbon suggests that the largest probable population of Skywalker gibbons has been living undetected until now.&nbsp;



Initial estimates from 2013 speculated the existence of up to 65,000 gibbons in these regions, although current numbers are likely lower due to hunting, limited protected areas, and ongoing political unrest in Myanmar.



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



For the investigation, the experts collected chewed plants and fruits for non-invasive DNA sampling. They also used acoustic monitoring systems that captured the gibbons' morning serenades.&nbsp;



The innovative study approach was crucial in confirming the presence of Skywalker gibbons. These methods, combined with photograph analysis and local threat assessment surveys, have not only expanded the known habitat range of these gibbons but also underscored their adaptability and the critical need for targeted conservation efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-new-insights-nbsp">Critical new insights&nbsp;</h2>



The discovery of Skywalker gibbons in Myanmar, particularly in the degraded forests of Southern Shan State and as far south as Kachin State, challenges previous assumptions about their habitat preferences and resilience.&nbsp;



This finding is a testament to the importance of local knowledge and community involvement in conservation research, especially in regions where political unrest and safety concerns limit external scientific exploration.



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



As the study's findings are integrated into the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species, the researchers advocate for the continued designation of the Skywalker gibbon as an endangered species. They emphasize the urgent need for Myanmar and China to extend and enhance conservation measures to these newly identified geographic areas.



“We found Skywalker gibbons in two regions of Myanmar: Kachin state and as far south as Shan state, in degraded forests and at much lower elevations than we expected, showing us they’re highly adaptable,” Evans said. “There needs to be a protected area system there that focuses on them.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about Skywalker gibbons</h2>



Skywalker gibbons, scientifically known as Hoolock tianxing, are a species of hoolock gibbon found in the forests of Myanmar and China. They were named "Skywalker" due to the meaning of their Chinese name, which reflects the idea of moving swiftly through the treetops, akin to the movement of a Jedi, a reference to the Star Wars saga. 



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



Skywalker gibbons are characterized by distinctive markings on their eyebrows and a generally lighter coloring compared to other hoolock gibbons. They are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of fruits, leaves, and occasionally insects. 



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



Like other gibbons, they are known for their agility and their ability to brachiate through the trees with remarkable speed. They live in small, territorial family groups, and their vocalizations, which include a complex series of hoots, barks, and other sounds, play a crucial role in communication and maintaining the bonds within these groups. 



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



Unfortunately, the Skywalker gibbons are facing threats from habitat loss, fragmentation, and hunting, leading to their classification as endangered. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the survival of this unique species, emphasizing habitat protection, anti-poaching measures, and research to better understand their ecology and behavior.



Image Credit: Peng-Fei Fan



The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10764-024-00418-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Journal of Primatology</a>.



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Hidden groups of Skywalker gibbons found through their love songs

Scientists have made a thrilling discovery about the elusive Skywalker...

Comb,Jelly,Drifting,Underwater,In,The,St.,Lawrence,River,In

In the remote and frigid waters of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-free-arctic-summers-could-be-the-new-normal-by-2030/">Arctic</a>, during the long and dark polar night, a discovery has been made that challenges our understanding of the Arctic marine food web.&nbsp;



For the first time, scientists have evidence to show that <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Crustaceans-scaled.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tiny crustaceans, known as amphipods</a>, are preying on both live and dead jellyfish to survive the harsh Arctic winter, a period when food sources are scarce. 



This revelation highlights the adaptability of marine life in the face of extreme environmental conditions and suggests a significant re-evaluation of the role of jellyfish within Arctic ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amphipods-and-the-adaptability-of-marine-life">Amphipods and the adaptability of marine life</h2>



The study, published by <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2024.1327650" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers</a>, was conducted during an expedition to the AWIPEV research station on Svalbard in January and February 2022.&nbsp;



The team embarked on this journey to explore the dietary habits of amphipods, small crustaceans ranging from five to 20 millimeters in length, in the depths of Kongsfjorden, Svalbard.



The research has illuminated the critical survival strategies that these organisms use during the months-long polar night when traditional food sources dwindle.



“Here we show for the first time that jellyfish -- thought to be typically poor in nutrients -- are nevertheless an important food source for amphipods during the Arctic polar night,” said study first author Annkathrin Dischereit, a doctoral student at the <a href="https://www.awi.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alfred Wegener Institute</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dissection-of-the-amphipods">Dissection of the amphipods</h2>



The research team discovered that amphipods not only feed on "jelly-falls," the naturally sunken carcasses of jellyfish, but some species also actively prey on living <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jellyfish-are-capable-of-more-complex-learning-than-ever-imagined/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jellyfish</a>. 



This discovery is pivotal, highlighting a previously underappreciated interaction within the Arctic marine food web.



The waters around Svalbard were found to be teeming with various jellyfish species, from true jellyfish like the lion's mane jellyfish to hydrozoans and ctenophores. 



The researchers focused on four species of amphipods, utilizing nets and baited traps for collection. 



Through the dissection of the amphipods and DNA metabarcoding of their gut contents, the team was able to identify the remains of their prey, revealing a diet rich in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/very-rare-medusa-jellyfish-species-santjordia-pagesi-spotted-near-japan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jellyfish</a> among the studied species. 



The evidence suggests that jellyfish, contrary to previous beliefs, play a vital role in the diet of Arctic amphipods, especially during the challenging winter months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapidly-changing-arctic">Rapidly changing Arctic</h2>



The study also highlights the broader implications of these findings in the context of the rapidly changing Arctic environment.&nbsp;



The phenomenon known as "Atlantification" -- the northward spread of jellyfish species from the Atlantic Ocean due to warming waters -- may further amplify the importance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jellyfish-can-regenerate-functioning-tentacles-in-just-a-few-days/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jellyfish</a> as a food source within Arctic food webs. 



As the Arctic warms at a record pace, understanding the dynamics of these food webs and the role of jellyfish within them becomes increasingly crucial.



"There has been a recent paradigm shift in the marine biology literature that recognizes that far from being a ‘trophic dead-end,' jellyfish are in fact eaten by a wide range of organisms," said study co-author Dr. Charlotte Havermans. 



"Our observations corroborate this major change in how scientists view the role of jellyfish in the food web."



“Because jellyfish tissue is quickly digested, they may have been overlooked as a prey item in previous studies, which unlike our study relied on visual identification of food items to determine the diet of Arctic invertebrates.”



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



As the Arctic continues to undergo profound environmental changes, further research into the diets of marine invertebrates and fish will be essential in unraveling the complex interactions that sustain these unique ecosystems.&nbsp;



The research lays the groundwork for future studies, opening new avenues for exploring the resilience of Arctic marine life in the face of climate change.



“To get a better idea of the role of jellyfish in the Arctic marine food web, and how this may change when their populations increase in the ‘new Arctic,’ we plan to further investigate the diet of other invertebrates and fish that potentially feed on jellyfish," said Dischereit.



"Questions remain, for example, whether jellyfish are a regular part of the diet of amphipods or whether they are simply a survival food during the polar night."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2024.1327650" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Marine Science</a>.



Image Credit: C. Havermans



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Tiny creatures called amphipods eat jellyfish to survive the polar winters

In the remote and frigid waters of the Arctic, during...

<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">
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</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that scientists never expected.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">New York is the site of the world's oldest forest.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Acid rain and a crisis solved.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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</div></figure>







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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

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</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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-----

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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