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>.



-----



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



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



-----

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...

Chameleon,On,The,Flower.,Beautiful,Extreme,Close-up.

A new study provides crucial insights into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-biodiversity-crisis-is-actually-worse-than-we-thought/">biodiversity</a> patterns across the globe, particularly emphasizing the unique roles of climate and topography. The researchers investigated the reasons why tropical regions close to the equator are teeming with a diverse array of animal and plant species.&nbsp;



The research team, led by PhD student Tal Raz and Professor Shai Meiri from <a href="https://english.tau.ac.il/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tel Aviv University</a>, along with Professor Uri Roll from Ben-Gurion University, analyzed an extensive dataset covering thousands of species.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-patterns-nbsp">Biodiversity patterns&nbsp;</h2>



The analysis included 5,983 amphibians, 9,630 birds, 5,004 mammals, and 8,939 reptiles. Such a massive dataset, which featured newly available data on reptiles, enabled the team to investigate global biodiversity patterns and their relationship to the environment with unprecedented precision.



"Until recently, we didn't have enough data on where land vertebrates are found and thus on how many species are actually found in different areas of the world. Now, we have detailed data for reptiles, which we made available, along with publicly available data for other land vertebrate groups. This allows us to accurately study global patterns and how they relate to the environment," said Raz.&nbsp;



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



The team found that while amphibians, birds, and mammals flourish in regions with higher rainfall, reptiles show a marked preference for warmer areas, regardless of rainfall levels. 



This pattern is further complicated by the fact that in colder regions, temperature plays a more dominant role in determining species numbers than rainfall.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-relationships">Fascinating relationships</h2>



"The relationship between temperature, precipitation, and topography in shaping ecosystems is fascinating. In regions where environmental factors are diverse, they tend to have a more pronounced influence on the number of species," said Raz.



"In Africa, for instance - where temperatures are quite high all over, the varying rainfall plays a crucial role in determining the number of species."



"In Eurasia, both temperature and rainfall are highly diverse, making them both influential for species richness. But with all that, amphibians never forget their connection to rainfall, and reptiles hold onto their affinity for warmth."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-distribution-of-reptiles-nbsp">Global distribution of reptiles&nbsp;</h2>



Professor Meiri explained that reptiles can do with very little water, because their metabolism is much slower compared to birds and mammals and because, unlike amphibians, they have highly efficient mechanisms to prevent water loss.&nbsp;



"But reptiles are highly sensitive to temperatures and cannot readily function in cold regions. Therefore, we see relatively high numbers of reptiles in deserts worldwide, where mammals, birds and, especially, amphibians, are scarce.”&nbsp;



“In recent years we have made tremendous efforts to map the global distributions of about 12,000 species of reptiles (as part of the Global Assessment of Reptile Distributions). Such efforts enable us to ask such broad-scale fundamental questions regarding the ecology and evolution of life on our planet."



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



Professor Roll emphasized that understanding the distribution of biodiversity is crucial for conservation efforts.



“We live in an age of the biodiversity crisis! If trends continue as they are, many of the plants and animals that share the Earth with us will not be here by the end of the 21st century due to destruction of their habitats, climate change, and other human effects," said Professor Roll.



"A better understanding of where biodiversity is found, and why we find it there, is fundamental for our efforts to conserve it. Moreover, works such as this highlight how life on Earth is a truly miraculous phenomenon, and should serve as a call to action to everyone to protect it.”



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



—-&nbsp;



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

Study reveals patterns of biodiversity across the globe

A new study provides crucial insights into biodiversity patterns across...

Over two decades since Dolly the sheep's groundbreaking <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cloning-reverse-extinction/">cloning</a>, scientists have achieved a significant milestone by successfully cloning a rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta), a species closely related to humans.&nbsp;



This feat was accomplished by experts at the <a href="https://english.ucas.ac.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Chinese Academy of Sciences</a> in Beijing, who used somatic cells from a rhesus monkey to create a genetically identical copy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cloning-technology-nbsp">Cloning technology&nbsp;</h2>



The clone, which has been healthy for more than two years since its birth, marks a significant advancement in cloning technology, particularly in a species so closely related to humans.&nbsp;



The cloning process employed somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), a technique that involves transferring the DNA of a somatic cell, such as a skin cell, into an egg cell whose nucleus has been removed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-low-success-rate">Low success rate</h2>



Dr. Qiang Sun and his team, the same group that cloned the crab-eating macaque monkeys in 2017, led this latest effort. The SCNT technique reprograms the genetic material in the nucleus, allowing the egg to divide and form a cloned embryo, supported by a healthy placenta.



However, the cloning efficiency for most mammal species remains extremely low, with high mortality rates both during gestation and shortly after birth. The team's success came with only one surviving cloned animal out of 113 initial embryos, a success rate of less than one percent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-difficulty-of-cloning">Difficulty of cloning</h2>



Dr. Lluís Montoliu, an expert at the <a href="http://www.cnb.csic.es/index.php/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Center for Biotechnology</a> in Spain, not involved in the new cloning project, highlights the difficulty of such experiments. 



"Both the cloning of crab-eating macaques and Rhesus monkeys demonstrate two things: first, it is possible to clone primates, and second, it is extremely difficult to succeed with these experiments, with such low efficiencies, once again ruling out human cloning," he said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ethical-concerns">Ethical concerns</h2>



While the cloning of various mammals has been achieved since Dolly's birth in 1996, the cloning of primates like monkeys and potentially humans raises significant ethical concerns. Dr. Montoliu emphasizes that human cloning is "extraordinarily difficult and ethically unjustifiable," deeming it unnecessary and debatable.



The experiment, which could not have been conducted in Europe due to EU legislation on animal experimentation, raises questions about the ethical implications of cloning primates.&nbsp;



The EU legislation prohibits the use of non-human primates in experiments unless it's for investigating serious diseases affecting humans or the primate species itself, criteria not met in this experiment.&nbsp;



Despite these concerns, the research offers valuable insights into the possibilities and limitations of cloning technology in closely human-related species.



The findings are published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-43985-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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



—-&nbsp;



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

Chinese scientists clone a rhesus monkey for the first time

Over two decades since Dolly the sheep's groundbreaking cloning, scientists...

Life on Earth remains a subject of immense curiosity and scientific investigation across all sections of humanity. But have you ever stopped to think about the total amount of <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/how-much-total-life-has-existed-on-Earth_Spiny-Flower-Mantis_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life that has existed</a> on Earth since the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-chemical-reaction-used-by-cooks-helped-spark-the-first-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">first cells</a> appeared 3.8 billion years ago? 



What about the total amount of life that will ever inhabit our planet, from now until Earth is consumed by the Sun?



A recent study led by <a href="https://earthsci.carleton.ca/people/faculty-members/dr-peter-crockford" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Peter Crockford</a>, Assistant Professor at <a href="https://carleton.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carleton University</a>, in collaboration with researchers from the <a href="https://www.weizmann.ac.il/pages/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Weizmann Institute of Science</a> and <a href="https://www.smith.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smith College</a>, dives head first into this mind-blowing topic.



Their work, published in <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(23)01286-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>, delves into the historical and future aspects of life on our planet.



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



At the heart of the study is the concept of primary production, a process where organisms convert inorganic carbon, like atmospheric carbon dioxide and oceanic bicarbonate, into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-the-building-blocks-of-life-form/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">organic molecules</a> essential for life. 



This process, currently dominated by oxygenic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-to-life-on-earth-photosynthesis-begins-on-the-quantum-level-with-a-single-photon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis</a> involving sunlight and water, is responsible for an estimated annual uptake of 200 billion tons of carbon. 



Understanding the historical rates of primary production is crucial, and scientists have turned to the isotopic composition of oxygen in ancient sulfate deposits for answers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historical-insights-and-astonishing-figures">Historical insights and astonishing figures</h2>



The study compiled various estimates of ancient primary production, leading to the staggering conclusion that about 100 quintillion tons of carbon have been processed since life began. 



This figure is a hundredfold greater than the total carbon content contained inside the Earth, highlighting the profound impact of primary producers like plants, algae, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cyanobacteria-may-shed-new-light-on-the-history-of-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cyanobacteria</a>.



In Earth's early days, primary production was predominantly managed by organisms that didn't rely on oxygenic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-finally-decoded-the-process-of-photosynthesis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis</a>. 



Techniques like identifying the oldest forests and analyzing molecular fossils have helped pinpoint when different primary producers were most active.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-estimating-the-total-amount-of-life-on-earth">Estimating the total amount of life on Earth</h2>



Crockford's team found that land plants, despite their late emergence, have likely been the biggest contributors to Earth's primary production. 



Cyanobacteria also stand out as significant contributors. This research is vital in understanding not just the amount of primary production but also the organisms responsible for it.



One fascinating aspect of the study is the <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/earth_amount-of-life-existed_stony-coral_3m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">estimation of life</a> on Earth, both historically and presently. By correlating primary production with cell existence, the researchers approximate that around 1030 (10 noninillion) cells exist today. 



Throughout Earth's history, between 1039&nbsp;(a duodecillion) and 1040 cells have likely existed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finite-nature-of-earth-s-biosphere">Finite nature of Earth’s biosphere</h2>



The study also touches on the finite lifespan of Earth's biosphere, a sobering reality dictated by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sun-dies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life cycle of the sun</a>. 



Over time, the sun's increasing brightness will push Earth's biogeochemical systems beyond their limits, leading to the demise of land plants and eventually turning Earth back into a largely lifeless planet.



Looking forward, Crockford and his team project that about 1040 cells will inhabit Earth over its entire habitable lifetime. This projection is based on current levels of primary productivity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-as-an-exoplanet-benchmark">Earth as an exoplanet benchmark</h2>



In an era where over <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alien-worlds-unraveling-the-mysteries-of-exoplanets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">5000 exoplanets</a> have been discovered, the study also positions Earth as a benchmark for comparing life on other planets. 



Crockford emphasizes the significance of historical events, like the advent of oxygenic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-photosynthesis-machines-invented-to-create-oxygen-in-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis</a> and endosymbiosis, in shaping the trajectory and abundance of life on Earth. 



These insights not only enhance our understanding of our planet but also guide the exploration of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oxygen-levels-on-distant-planets-reveal-presence-of-alien-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extraterrestrial life</a>.



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



In summary, this incredible work by Peter Crockford and his team offers a profound perspective on the scope and scale of life on Earth. 



By quantifying the vast amounts of carbon processed since the <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/earth_amount-of-life-existed_nudibranch_4m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dawn of life</a> and estimating the staggering number of cells that have existed, and will exist, the research deepens our understanding of Earth's biological history, while placing our planet in a broader cosmic context. 



As we continue to discover and analyze exoplanets, Earth's unique evolutionary path, shaped by pivotal phenomena like oxygenic photosynthesis, serves as a vital reference point. 



This research illuminates our planet's past and predicts its future. It also underscores the delicate balance of conditions that sustain life. 



As we look towards the future, Crockford's work reminds us of the transient nature of life on Earth and the ongoing quest to unravel the mysteries of life in the universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beginnings-of-life-on-earth">Beginnings of life on Earth</h2>



As mentioned above, the beginning of life on Earth is a story of extraordinary complexity and wonder, forged billions of years ago. 



This narrative starts around <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-chemical-reaction-used-by-cooks-helped-spark-the-first-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">4.5 billion years ago</a>, when Earth itself formed from the dust and cosmic debris left over from the sun's creation. 



Initially, the young Earth was a molten, hostile environment, unsuitable for any form of life as we know it today.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-oceans-and-the-emergence-of-life">Earth's oceans and the emergence of life</h3>



As Earth cooled, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stunning-discovery-earths-building-blocks-contained-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water vapor</a> began to condense and form oceans. It was in these primordial waters, around 3.8 to 4.1 billion years ago, that life first emerged. 



The exact process remains one of science's great mysteries, but the prevailing theory suggests that life began with simple <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-blocks-of-life-found-in-asteroids-were-formed-in-cold-regions-of-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">organic compounds</a>. 



These compounds, through a series of chemical reactions possibly driven by lightning or volcanic activity, formed the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-the-building-blocks-of-life-form/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">building blocks</a> of life: amino acids and nucleotides.



Then, a critical leap occurred. These organic molecules combined in just the right way to form the first simple, self-replicating entities. 



These were the earliest forms of life, likely <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-on-earth-may-have-been-kickstarted-by-a-stormy-and-active-sun/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RNA-like molecules</a> that could both store genetic information and catalyze chemical reactions, a precursor to modern DNA.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-and-the-rise-of-complex-life">Evolution and the rise of complex life</h3>



Over countless millennia, these simple forms evolved, becoming more complex and diverse. 



They developed the ability to harness energy from the sun through photosynthesis, which dramatically altered Earth's atmosphere and paved the way for more complex life forms. 



The rise of oxygen in the atmosphere was a turning point, leading to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolution-is-not-as-random-as-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a> of aerobic organisms that could use oxygen for energy.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-diverse-web-of-life">The diverse web of life</h3>



From these humble beginnings, life diversified into the myriad forms we see today, from bacteria to plants, insects, animals, and humans. 



Through the process of primary production, the amount of life that has existed on Earth, and will exist in the future, is nothing short of staggering.



This vast web of life all traces back to those first organic compounds that formed in Earth's ancient oceans, making our planet a unique and thriving ecosystem in the vastness of space.



In summary, the story of life's beginning on Earth, and the total amount of life that has existed on Earth since the very first cell evolved, is a tale of chemical and biological evolution.



Earth's story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of life. It underscores the importance of understanding our planet's history and preserving its biodiversity for future generations.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(23)01286-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

The total amount of life that has ever existed on Earth is mind-blowing

Life on Earth remains a subject of immense curiosity and...

A team of researchers led by <a href="https://www.curtin.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Curtin University</a> has achieved a significant milestone in understanding the evolution of life on Earth. For the first time, the team has precisely dated some of the world's oldest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/juvenile-t-rex-fossils-belong-a-distinct-tyrannosaur-species/">fossils</a> of complex multicellular life.&nbsp;



The study sheds light on a crucial point in Earth's history when diverse life forms emerged in the oceans after four billion years of hosting only single-celled microbes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-ediacaran-period">The Ediacaran period</h2>



"The Ediacaran period represents a pivotal time in the evolution of life as it contains the earliest unequivocal fossil evidence for large-scale multicellular organisms, including the first animals," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"The Ediacaran biota demonstrates examples of heterotrophy, locomotion, sexual reproduction and organization into complex ecosystems."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dating-the-fossils-nbsp">Dating the fossils&nbsp;</h2>



Study lead author Anthony Clarke, a PhD student in the Timescales of Mineral Systems Group at Curtin, explained the innovative method used to determine the age of the ancient fossils. By utilizing volcanic ash layers as chronological markers within the geological sequence, the team was able to date the fossils with remarkable precision.



“Located in the Coed Cochion Quarry in Wales, which contains the richest occurrence of shallow marine life in Britain, we used outfall from an ancient volcano that blanketed the animals as a time marker to accurately date the fossils to 565 million years, accurate down to 0.1 percent,” said Clarke.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-living-community-nbsp">Ancient living community&nbsp;</h2>



“With similar Ediacaran fossils found at sites around the world including in Australia, dating the fossils identifies them as being part of an ancient living community that developed as Earth thawed out from a global ice age."



“These creatures would in some ways resemble modern day marine species such as jellyfish, yet in other ways be bizarre and unfamiliar. Some appear fern-like, others like cabbages, whereas others resembled sea pens.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-geological-period-nbsp">New geological period&nbsp;</h2>



Study co-author Professor Chris Kirkland said the fossils are named after the Ediacara Hills in South Australia’s Flinders Ranges, where they were first discovered, leading to the first new geological period established in over a century.



“These Welsh fossils appear directly comparable to the famous fossils of Ediacara in South Australia,” said Professor Kirkland. “The fossils, including creatures like the disc-shaped Aspidella terranovica, showcase some of the earliest evidence of large-scale multicellular organisms, marking a transformative moment in Earth’s biological history."



“Ediacaran fossils record the response of life to the thaw out from a global glaciation, which shows the deep connection between geological processes and biology."



“Our study underscores the importance of understanding these ancient ecosystems in order to unravel the mysteries of Earth’s past and shape our comprehension of life’s evolution.”



The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1144/jgs2023-081" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the Geological Society</a>.



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



—-&nbsp;



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

Fossils capture a turning point in the evolution of life

A team of researchers led by Curtin University has achieved...

Prehistoric,Crocodile,Sarcosuchus,Computer,Generated,3d,Illustration

In a remarkable discovery, researchers have unearthed a 3D fragment of fossilized skin that is roughly 286 million years old, surpassing the age of any known skin fossils by at least 21 million years. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Fossilized-skin_CREDIT_Current-Biology-Mooney_1m-scaled.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">This ancient skin</a>, which adorned an early Paleozoic reptile, boasts a distinctive pebbled texture, bearing a striking resemblance to modern-day crocodile skin.



This discovery marks the oldest known example of epidermis preservation in terrestrial reptiles, birds, and mammals. It highlights the evolutionary significance of the outermost skin layer in adapting to life on land.



The fossilized skin, along with other specimens, was extracted from the Richards Spur limestone cave system in Oklahoma, a site renowned for its unique preservation conditions.



Ethan Mooney, a paleontology graduate student at the <a href="https://www.utoronto.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toronto</a> and the study's first author, expressed his excitement. 



“Every now and then we get an exceptional opportunity to glimpse back into deep time,” said Mooney. “These types of discoveries can really enrich our understanding and perception of these pioneering animals.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fossilized-skin-is-a-rarity">Fossilized skin is a rarity</h2>



The rarity of soft tissue fossilization makes this find particularly significant. The researchers believe that a combination of fine clay sediments, oil seepage, and an oxygen-poor cave environment at <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richards_Spur" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Richards Spur</a> played a pivotal role in preserving the skin.



“Animals would have fallen into this cave system during the early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saber-toothed-predator-was-king-prior-to-the-great-dying/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Permian</a> and been buried in very fine clay sediments that delayed the decay process,” Mooney elaborates. 



“But the kicker is that this cave system was also an active oil seepage site during the Permian, and interactions between hydrocarbons in petroleum and tar are likely what allowed this skin to be preserved.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-size-big-science">Small size, big science</h2>



Despite its diminutive size -- smaller than a fingernail -- the fossilized skin revealed detailed epidermal tissues under microscopic examination by coauthor Tea Maho of the <a href="https://www.utm.utoronto.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toronto Mississauga</a>. 



These tissues are characteristic of amniotes, a group of terrestrial vertebrates that includes reptiles, birds, and mammals, evolved from amphibian ancestors during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-is-a-tully-monster-and-why-should-we-care/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carboniferous Period</a>.



“We were totally shocked by what we saw because it’s completely unlike anything we would have expected,” says Mooney. 



“Finding such an old skin fossil is an exceptional opportunity to peer into the past and see what the skin of some of these earliest animals may have looked like.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prehistoric-time-capsule-in-this-fossilized-skin">Prehistoric time capsule in this fossilized skin</h2>



The fossilized skin's features included a pebbled surface akin to crocodile skin, and hinged regions between scales reminiscent of snakes and worm lizards. 



These distinct attributes suggest a resemblance to both ancient and current <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/did-the-reptile-or-the-egg-come-first-scientists-have-changed-their-minds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reptiles</a>. However, the absence of associated skeletal remains leaves the exact species or body region of the skin unknown.



This similarity underscores the evolutionary importance of such skin structures for survival in terrestrial environments. 



“The epidermis was a critical feature for vertebrate survival on land,” says Mooney. “It's a crucial barrier between the internal body processes and the harsh outer environment.”



The team hypothesizes that this skin may represent the ancestral structure for terrestrial vertebrates in early amniotes, paving the way for the evolution of bird feathers and mammalian hair follicles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-richards-spur-cave-system">Richards Spur cave system</h2>



Bill and Julie May, lifelong paleontology enthusiasts, collected the skin fossil and other specimens at Richards Spur. 



The unique conditions at this limestone cave system in Oklahoma have preserved many of the oldest examples of early terrestrial animals. 



These specimens are now housed at the <a href="https://www.rom.on.ca/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Ontario Museum</a>, providing invaluable insights into the ancient world and its inhabitants. 



In summary, this fossilized skin discovery offers a profound glimpse into the ancient world of terrestrial vertebrates. 



Through passionate endeavor and meticulous study, scientists and paleontology enthusiasts alike contribute invaluable knowledge to our collective understanding of the rich tapestry of life that has inhabited our planet over millions of years.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(23)01663-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Rare "fossilized skin" discovery is 286 million years old, belongs to an unknown creature

In a remarkable discovery, researchers have unearthed a 3D fragment...

Rocky,Shore,Of,The,Atlantic,Ocean,At,High,Tide,At

Scientists from UC Santa Barbara and McGill University have brought to light a collection of well-preserved microfossils, unveiling a surprising diversity of the oldest eukaryotic organisms that existed 1.64 billion years ago.



This research details a critical period in the evolutionary history of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eukaryotic-cells-origin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eukaryotes</a>, a major domain of life that includes plants, animals, fungi, and various other organisms with complex cellular structures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-oldest-eukaryote-organisms">Studying the oldest eukaryote organisms</h2>



Lead author <a href="https://www.geol.ucsb.edu/people/leigh-anne-riedman-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leigh Anne Riedman</a>, an assistant researcher in UCSB’s <a href="https://www.geol.ucsb.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Earth Science</a>, emphasized the significance of these findings. 



"These are among the oldest eukaryotes that have ever been discovered," Riedman stated. "Yet, even in these first records, we're seeing a lot of diversity." 



This challenges the previously held belief that early eukaryotes were relatively uniform, with significant diversification occurring much later, around 800 million years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collecting-fossils-down-under">Collecting fossils down under</h2>



The team's exploration began in the Australian Outback in late 2019. Riedman collected approximately 430 samples from eight cores drilled by a prospecting company, now stored in the <a href="https://www.nwtgeoscience.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northern Territory Geological Survey</a>'s library. 



The selected cores spanned about 500 meters of stratigraphy, encapsulating around 133 million years of geological history, with a focus on a period of intense deposition lasting about 15 million years.



Riedman's return to the United States with shale and mudstone samples marked the start of an intensive analysis process. 



These remnants of an ancient coastal ecosystem, which alternated between shallow mudflats and coastal lagoons, held the key to understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microfossils-reveal-a-leap-in-lifes-complexity-2-4-billion-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early eukaryotic life</a>. 



A careful application of hydrofluoric acid dissolved the surrounding rock, leaving behind the invaluable microfossils for microscopic examination.



"We were hoping to find species with interesting and different characteristics to their cell walls," Riedman explained. These characteristics could provide insights into the cellular activities of these early life forms. 



However, as Riedman noted, reaching any definitive conclusions about the cellular interiors would be challenging, given that the fossils preserved only the exteriors of the cells.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remarkable-diversity-and-complexity">Remarkable diversity and complexity</h2>



The team, amazed by their findings, identified 26 taxa, including 10 previously unknown species. These fossils displayed intricate structures, such as evidence of cytoskeletons and internal vesicles, possibly precursors to modern Golgi bodies found in eukaryotic cells. 



Additionally, some microbes exhibited complex cell walls composed of bound fibers, further suggesting advanced cellular structures.



Among the intriguing discoveries were cells with tiny trapdoors, a sign of sophisticated biological processes. These trapdoors are thought to have been used by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organisms-called-protosterol-biota-lived-1-6-billion-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbes</a> to form cysts during unfavorable conditions, requiring a specialized mechanism to reopen. 



“If you’re going to produce an enzyme that dissolves your cell wall, you need to be really careful about how you use that enzyme,” explained Leigh Anne Riedman, highlighting the unexpected complexity in these early life forms. 



This finding indicates that such sophisticated abilities were present much earlier than previously assumed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-oldest-eukaryote-organisms">Evolution of oldest eukaryote organisms</h2>



<a href="https://www.geol.ucsb.edu/people/susannah-porter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Susannah Porter</a>, a co-author and Earth science professor at <a href="https://www.ucsb.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Santa Barbara</a>, noted, “The assumption has always been that this is around the time that eukaryotes appeared. And now we think that people just haven’t explored older rocks.” 



This revelation suggests that the history of eukaryotes on Earth could extend further back than previously believed. 



Their study is part of a broader project aimed at understanding the environmental conditions and adaptations of early eukaryotes. 



Riedman and Porter are particularly interested in determining whether these organisms thrived in oxygenated or anoxic environments. 



The presence of aerobic metabolism or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-plankton-hold-a-long-record-of-ocean-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mitochondria</a> would imply an early acquisition of these organelles, offering a significant evolutionary advantage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-back-to-move-forward">Looking back to move forward</h2>



As Riedman and Porter continue their research, including studies of even older samples from Western Australia and Minnesota, they aim to provide a more detailed account of eukaryote diversity over time. 



Collaborations with geochemists at <a href="https://www.mcgill.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McGill University</a> are also underway, focusing on oxygen levels and preferred habitats of these ancient organisms.



“These results are a directive to go look for older material, older eukaryotes, because this is clearly not the beginning of eukaryotes on Earth,” Riedman stated, urging a deeper investigation into the origins of these complex life forms.



In summary, this important research challenges previous beliefs about the uniformity and later diversification of early eukaryotes, some of the oldest organisms on Earth. The team's exploration unearthed evidence of sophisticated cellular structures, such as cytoskeletons and internal vesicles, in ancient eukaryotic cells. 



These findings, derived from ancient coastal ecosystem remnants, offer new insights into the early evolution of life and prompt further investigation into even older geological samples.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/spp2.1538" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Papers in Palaeontology</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Earth’s oldest organisms ever discovered show dazzling diversity and complexity

Scientists from UC Santa Barbara and McGill University have brought...

Scientists at the <a href="https://www.unil.ch/central/en/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Lausanne</a>'s Department of Fundamental Microbiology (DMF) in Dorigny, led by Professor Philipp Engel, have embarked on an intriguing study using western honey <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/clues-to-bee-health-found-in-their-gut-microbiome/">bees</a> (Apis mellifera) to answer a fundamental question about gut microbiota: Do hosts provide essential nutrients to their native bacteria, enabling colonization? 



The research, published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41564-023-01572-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Microbiology</a> on January 15, 2024, uncovers fascinating insights into the symbiotic relationship between bees and their gut bacteria.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simple-microbiome-nbsp">Simple microbiome&nbsp;</h2>



The bee, known for producing honey, presents a simpler system for studying gut microbiota compared to humans, with a microbiome consisting of only about twenty bacterial species.&nbsp;



In the Engel group’s laboratory, bees are raised without gut bacteria and then introduced to specific bacterial species to colonize their gut.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-snodgrassella-alvi">Snodgrassella alvi</h2>



In their study, Dr. Andrew Quinn and PhD candidate Yassine El Chazli investigated how gut bacteria fare when bees are fed only sugar water, lacking other nutrients. They focused on a particular bacterium, Snodgrassella alvi, which can't metabolize sugar yet still colonized the bee gut under these conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-research-was-conducted-nbsp">How the research was conducted&nbsp;</h2>



Proving the hypothesis that bees directly provide essential nutrients to S. alvi was challenging. Collaborating with Professor Anders Meibom's team, experts in NanoSIMS (Nanoscale Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry) technology, they conducted an experiment using glucose with 13C isotopes.&nbsp;



The bees were then colonized with S. alvi, and the fixed guts were examined using electron microscopy and NanoSIMS. This process allowed them to create a 2D image showing that S. alvi cells were enriched in 13C, indicating the bees were synthesizing food for their gut bacteria.



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



This research highlights a complex metabolic synergy between bees and their gut microbiota, which could be crucial in understanding bees' vulnerability to climate change, pesticides, or new pathogens. For instance, exposure to glyphosate has been shown to make bees more susceptible to pathogens and reduce S. alvi abundance in the gut.



"This is a wonderful example of cutting-edge, truly interdisciplinary scientific collaboration," said Meibom. "When we work together in this way, there are not many academic environments in the world that have more to offer."



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



Dr. Quinn, co-lead author of the study, suggests that this approach could extend to other gut microorganisms, potentially feeding on compounds derived from their hosts. He further speculates that these findings might explain the specialized and conserved nature of bees’ gut microbiota. The team's research sheds light on the potential impact of environmental stressors on the delicate balance between bees and their gut bacteria, which may contribute to their increasing vulnerability.



Thus, the study represents a significant advancement in understanding the complex interactions within gut microbiota ecosystems. It opens new avenues for research into how similar mechanisms operate in other species, including humans, and how these interactions affect the overall health and resilience of the host organisms.



This groundbreaking research not only deepens our understanding of the symbiotic relationships in nature but also underscores the importance of preserving these delicate ecosystems amidst growing environmental challenges. The insights gained from this study could lead to more effective strategies for protecting bee populations, which are crucial for biodiversity and agricultural productivity worldwide.



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



—-&nbsp;



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

Bees synthesize nutrients to nourish their gut microbiota

Scientists at the University of Lausanne's Department of Fundamental Microbiology...

A,Selective,Focus,Shot,Of,Two,Sea,Otters,Hugging,Each

The natural world often holds the key to solving complex problems, and a recent study on the self-cleaning properties of fur in aquatic mammals is a testament to this. 



This fascinating research from <a href="https://mabe.utk.edu/people/andrew-dickerson/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Andrew Dickerson</a> and his colleagues uncovers how creatures like <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/why-do-beavers-build-dams/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beavers</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strong-maternal-drive-helps-sea-otters-survive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">otters</a> manage to keep their fur free from grime, despite living in environments ripe for fouling -- a process where surfaces accumulate dirt, algae, and bacteria.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-fur-flexibility-in-aquatic-mammals">Role of fur flexibility in aquatic mammals</h2>



One of the most intriguing findings from the study is the discovery that fur's ability to bend and flex plays a crucial role in its anti-fouling properties. 



This revelation emerged from an experiment where the scientists observed fur under a flow of dirty water containing titanium dioxide, a substance known for its tendency to cling to surfaces. 



They found that fur allowed to move freely in the water collected less than half the dirt compared to fur held rigid.



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



Dickerson's team examined the unique properties of fur from various animals, including beavers, otters, and other less water-affiliated species like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/case-study-how-african-antelopes-are-responding-to-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">springbok</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coyotes-move-into-towns-to-avoid-predators-only-to-be-killed-by-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coyotes</a>. 



By analyzing how the fur responded to continuous exposure to contaminated water, the team gained valuable insights into the factors that contribute to fur's cleanliness.



The implications of this research extend beyond understanding animal hygiene. Fouling is a significant issue in industrial contexts, often requiring energy-intensive and environmentally harmful methods to manage. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anti-fouling-technologies">Anti-fouling technologies</h2>



The insights gained from the study of mammalian fur could inspire more sustainable anti-fouling technologies, potentially revolutionizing how we approach challenges in marine environments, water supply systems, and even in medical applications.



One promising avenue is the development of surfaces that mimic fur's flexibility and texture. This could lead to innovative materials that resist fouling without the need for harmful chemicals.



However, the complexity of the fouling process and the diverse properties of fur mean that there's still much to learn. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-aquatic-mammal-fur-behaves">How aquatic mammal fur behaves</h2>



The interaction of fur strands, their texture, length, cross-sectional shape, and the environmental conditions they face all play a part in how effectively they resist dirt and grime. 



Additionally, researchers are exploring the role of the fur's movement, as the strands don't operate in isolation but clean each other through mutual contact as the animal moves.



Yet, not all mammals have harnessed this anti-fouling ability. The sloth, a notable exception, often hosts algae on its fur, highlighting the diversity and adaptability of nature's solutions to environmental challenges.



In summary, as we continue to unravel the secrets of fur's self-cleaning properties, the potential for novel, eco-friendly solutions to longstanding problems becomes increasingly apparent. 



This research is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey into the world of biomimicry and sustainable innovation. 



The full study was published in the journal of the <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsif.2023.0485" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Society Interface</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

How aquatic mammals keep their fur clean underwater

The natural world often holds the key to solving complex...

Southern,Elephant,Seal,And,King,Penguins,In,South,Georgia,Island

New research from the <a href="https://www.colorado.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Colorado Boulder</a> has unveiled alarming projections for acidity levels of Antarctic coastal waters.



By the century's end, the acidity in these waters could surge by over 100% compared to the 1990s, posing a grave threat to diverse marine life including whales, penguins, and numerous other species in the Southern Ocean.



Nicole Lovenduski, co-author of the study and interim director of CU Boulder’s Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (<a href="https://www.colorado.edu/instaar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INSTAAR</a>), emphasized the importance of these findings. 



“The findings are critical for our understanding of the future evolution of marine ecosystem health,” she stated. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looming-acidity-crisis-in-antarctic-waters">Looming acidity crisis in Antarctic waters</h2>



The study highlights a worrying trend. The upper 650 feet (200 meters) of the ocean, a critical habitat for many marine organisms, is expected to experience this sharp increase in acidity.



Oceans worldwide act as buffers against climate change by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-carbon-dioxide-sink/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">absorbing</a> nearly 30% of CO2 emissions. However, this comes at a cost. 



Cara Nissen, the paper’s lead author and a research scientist at INSTAAR, pointed out, “Human-caused CO2 emissions are at the heart of ocean acidification,”



Particularly vulnerable is the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-southern-ocean-is-a-critically-important-carbon-sink/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southern Ocean</a> around Antarctica, where colder waters absorb more CO2 and unique ocean currents contribute to already acidic conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-study-was-conducted">How the study was conducted</h2>



Nissen, Lovenduski, and their team used computer models to simulate how the Southern Ocean's seawater might change throughout the 21st century. 



They discovered that without significant emission cuts, acidification would escalate drastically, affecting the entire water column, from surface to seabed.



The team's focus also included Antarctica’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-improve-well-being-in-coastal-communities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine protected areas</a> (MPAs), zones where human activities like fishing are limited to conserve biodiversity. 



Despite these protections, both existing and proposed MPAs in Antarctic waters are likely to suffer significant acidification. 



Under a high-emission scenario, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarcticas-ross-sea-sanctuary-greenlighted/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ross Sea region</a> -- the world's largest MPA -- could witness a 104% rise in water acidity by 2100 compared to the 1990s. Even under a moderate emission scenario, a 43% increase is expected.



Nissen expressed her astonishment at the severity of potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/preparing-for-ocean-acidification-a-silent-killer-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean acidification</a> in these areas. “It’s surprising to me how severe ocean acidification would be in these coastal waters,” Nissen said. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harm-caused-by-acidic-waters">Harm caused by acidic waters</h2>



Water acidity in Antarctica hamper the growth of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warmer-water-and-ocean-acidification-harm-important-plankton/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phytoplankton</a>, crucial to the marine food chain, and weaken the shells of organisms like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-high-temperatures-affect-young-sea-snails/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea snails</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-urchins-are-struggling-to-survive-because-they-cant-get-a-grip/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea urchins</a>, which could have cascading effects up to top predators.



The team also examined the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a23a-worlds-largest-iceberg-is-moving-after-30-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Weddell Sea</a>, one of the proposed MPAs. Known for its extensive sea ice coverage, which currently shields the region from warming and CO2 absorption, the area is seen as a potential climate change sanctuary. 



“The result shows that establishing the Weddell Sea region as a protected area should have high priority,” Nissen said. 



However, the study indicates that as global warming progresses, melting sea ice will lead to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-icefish-have-developed-alien-like-superpowers-to-survive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">acidification</a> similar to other MPAs, albeit slightly delayed. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reverse-antarctica-water-acidity-is-crucial">Reverse Antarctica water acidity is crucial</h2>



Nissen emphasized the urgency of establishing the Weddell Sea as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-are-not-immune-to-ocean-heatwaves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protected area</a>.



"This study reminded me that these dynamic Antarctic coastal areas are also themselves capable of rapid change,” Lovenduski said, reflecting on the study's implications.



“As a scientist who typically studies the open ocean, I tend to think of Antarctic coastal areas as a conduit for climate signals to reach the global, deep ocean,"  Lovenduski concluded.



The research concludes with a stark warning: only an aggressive reduction in CO2 emissions can prevent severe <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crabs-are-losing-their-sense-of-smell-and-vanishing-due-to-ocean-acidification/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean acidification</a> in the Southern Ocean. 



“We still have the opportunity to choose our path regarding emissions, but time is running out,” Nissen cautions. 



In summary, this study serves as a critical call to action, underscoring the urgent need for global cooperation in reducing emissions to protect these vital ecosystems.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-44438-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Antarctic water acidity levels will soon double, greatly harming marine life

New research from the University of Colorado Boulder has unveiled...

Man,Work,Fogging,To,Eliminate,Mosquito,For,Preventing,Spread,Dengue

For most humans on our planet, bugs are often overlooked and sometimes swatted away. However, we need to learn to coexist, because insects and spiders, or arthropods, are pivotal to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-play-important-roles-in-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> humans depend on.



These creatures, characterized by their hard exoskeletons and jointed legs, constitute a staggering 84% of known animal species. Their role in our urban landscapes is more critical than many realize.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-humans-and-bugs-interact">How humans and bugs interact</h2>



Recent research has shed light on how human activities influence <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-insect-decline-what-are-the-causes-and-consequences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insect biodiversity</a>. The study, a collaboration between <a href="https://dornsife.usc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USC Dornsife College</a> and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County's <a href="https://nhm.org/community-science-nhm/bioscan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BioSCAN project</a>, focuses on nonbiological factors like temperature fluctuations and proximity to the ocean and their impact on arthropods in urban settings.



The BioSCAN project, bolstered by around 80 volunteers, involved setting up Malaise traps across Los Angeles to collect various flying arthropods, including bees, flies, and moths. 



Spiders were also hand-collected in these areas. This community science initiative played a vital role in understanding the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insect-declines-in-europe-linked-to-human-activities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arthropod diversity</a> in the bustling metropolis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insects-have-diverse-responses-to-humans">Insects have diverse responses to humans</h2>



<a href="https://dornsife.usc.edu/profile/laura-melissa-guzman/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Melissa Guzman</a>, the study's lead researcher and Assistant Professor of <a href="https://dornsife.usc.edu/bisc/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biological Sciences</a> and <a href="https://www.qcb-dornsife.usc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Quantitative and Computational Biology</a> at USC Dornsife, highlighted the unexpected diversity in bug responses to humans in urban environmental factors.



These included land covered by asphalt or concrete, and daily temperature changes. Contrary to initial thoughts, these factors had varied impacts across different arthropod groups.



For instance, the prevalence of concrete and asphalt surfaces increased the diversity of fruit flies but decreased that of crane flies. 



“In general, we thought most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-insect-species-face-the-greatest-declines/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arthropods</a> would be similarly affected by environmental factors such as land covered by asphalt or concrete and temperature fluctuations over a 24-hour cycle,” said Guzman.



“Instead, we found an unexpectedly large range of responses to factors such as these, both within closely related groups and across different groups.”



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-pest-control-tree-species-diversity-increases-spider-density/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spiders</a>, interestingly, thrived in these hard-covered areas. Temperature variations also significantly influenced the diversity of specific <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-weather-has-increased-seasonal-insect-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insect families</a>.



The researchers theorize that summertime's higher temperatures cause the drying up of plants that aphids feed on, thus depleting a primary food source for many hover flies. 



Additionally, they observe that non-native honeybees increase their foraging in warmer temperatures, directly competing for the same food resources as some hover flies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-planning-and-biodiversity">Urban planning and biodiversity</h2>



These insights are crucial for urban planners and developers. Understanding the link between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-do-so-few-insect-species-live-in-the-ocean-scientists-think-they-know/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species diversity</a> and factors like land value and temperature can guide adjustments in urban projects to enhance biodiversity. 



This, in turn, brings numerous benefits, including improved air quality, flood risk reduction, and better mental health for city dwellers.



Brian Brown, entomology curator at the Natural History Museum, revealed an exciting outcome. They discovered many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insect-larvae-had-sophisticated-defense-strategies-100-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arthropod species</a> previously unknown in the L.A. area, including about 50 new to science. 



“Based on that, we have a new understanding of what the biodiversity of Los Angeles is like in terms of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insect-populations-are-headed-towards-widespread-chaos-in-our-continually-warming-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insects</a>,” he said. “So instead of the 3,500 or 4,000 species that we previously thought, now we’re thinking there are close to 20,000 species living here in the ‘city of insects.’”



In a heartwarming tribute, each newly discovered species was named after a family participating in the BioSCAN project, emphasizing the crucial role of community involvement in conservation efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-path-forward-for-humans-and-bugs">The path forward for humans and bugs</h2>



Despite some limitations, like not accounting for seasonal variations in weather, the study offers practical ways for Los Angeles residents to enhance arthropod biodiversity. 



Guzman suggests prioritizing green areas, reducing pesticide use, and designing microhabitats in urban developments to support <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rise-and-fall-of-insect-populations-directly-linked-to-the-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diverse species</a>.



“Prioritizing green areas and reducing the use of pesticides would go a long way,” Guzman says. “And urban planners and builders could include microhabitats designed to allow a greater variety of species to thrive.”



While focused on Los Angeles, the study's findings have broader implications for urban environments across western North America. 



By understanding and applying these insights, land developers and homeowners can play a significant role in nurturing and preserving the delicate balance of urban ecosystems.



In summary, the study emphasizes the often-unseen diversity of urban wildlife and provides a roadmap for fostering healthy, resilient urban ecosystems. 



Through community involvement and informed urban planning, we can ensure that our cities remain vibrant havens for diverse life forms.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-50675-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Do bugs bug humans more than humans bug bugs?

For most humans on our planet, bugs are often overlooked...

Adélie,Penguin,Jumping,From,A,Ice-shelf,At,Brown,Bluff,(antarctic

Point Blue Conservation Science, a non-profit organization based in Petaluma, has unveiled fascinating insights into the migration habits of Adélie penguins in the Ross Sea region of Antarctica. 



Published in the prominent journal <a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ecy.4196" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology</a>, the study marks a significant advancement in our understanding of these remarkable birds and their interaction with their rapidly changing environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strength-and-resilience-of-adelie-penguins">Strength and resilience of Adélie penguins</h2>



Adélie penguins, known for their incredible migratory journeys despite being flightless, mirror the long-distance travel of their airborne counterparts. 



These resilient birds venture thousands of kilometers into the ocean from their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emperor-penguins-face-tragic-breeding-failures-due-to-sea-ice-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic breeding grounds</a>, following the elusive sunlight and food sources through the harsh Antarctic winter. 



Until now, the specifics of how they navigate and conserve energy during these extensive migrations remained largely unknown.



Dennis Jongsomjit, the lead author of the study from <a href="https://www.pointblue.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Point Blue</a>, highlights the technological breakthroughs that have enabled his team to to track the winter movements of 87 individuals across 146 trips spanning 3 years.



“Combining these new tracking tags with remotely sensed satellite data of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-sea-ice-extent-hit-a-record-low-this-month/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea ice</a> movement meant that we were able to investigate in greater detail than we’ve ever done before if and how Adélie penguins interacted with sea ice," Jongsomjit explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-research-team-learned">What the research team learned</h2>



The study’s findings are both intriguing and vital for conservation efforts:



<ol start="1">
<li>Adélie penguins cover greater distances with less effort when assisted by the movement of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-levels-in-antarctica-have-reached-an-unprecedented-low/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea ice</a>. </li>



<li>Conversely, their speed is reduced when moving against the direction of ice drift. </li>



<li>The penguins were observed further north as ice speeds increased, suggesting a strategic balance between the advantages and drawbacks of traveling on ice floes. </li>



<li>Fluctuations in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/startling-decline-in-antarctic-sea-ice-is-unprecedented-in-modern-records/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea ice</a> movement may directly affect the penguins' survival rates and reproductive success, thereby influencing the population trends on Ross Island.</li>
</ol>



These discoveries not only shed light on the penguins' migration patterns but also underscore the interconnectedness within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/west-antarctic-ice-sheet-melting-will-accelerate-regardless-of-climate-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southern Ocean</a> ecosystem. 



The movement of ocean currents and sea ice affects a wide array of species, including krill, silverfish, and the Antarctic toothfish, which are integral to the penguins' diet.



“As climate change alters sea ice patterns,” Jongsomjit added, “it could impact the energetic costs of migration, breeding success, and population dynamics of Adélie penguins, as well as the overall ecology within one of the most pristine ecosystems on Earth.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-future-holds-for-adelie-penguins">What the future holds for Adélie penguins</h2>



In summary, Point Blue Conservation Science's comprehensive study illuminates the intricate and adaptive migratory patterns of Adélie penguins, offering a window into their struggle for survival amidst the challenges posed by climate change. 



The study enriches our understanding of these charismatic birds while also serving as a crucial reminder of the broader environmental shifts impacting polar ecosystems. 



As these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/penguins-may-have-a-degree-of-self-awareness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">penguins</a> adjust their ancient rhythms to a rapidly changing world, their journey becomes a symbol of both the resilience of nature and the urgent need for concerted conservation efforts. 



This research, therefore, stands as a call to action, emphasizing the importance of continued scientific exploration and global commitment to preserving the delicate balance of our planet's ecosystems.



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



As discussed above, Adélie penguins thrive as one of the most fascinating and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-sea-ice-has-a-direct-impact-on-adelie-penguin-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resilient species</a>. These birds, small yet mighty, have adapted remarkably to one of the harshest environments on Earth, captivating researchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike with their unique behaviors and incredible survival skills.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-characteristics-and-habitat">Physical characteristics and habitat</h3>



Adélie penguins, identifiable by their classic black and white plumage and distinctive white ring around their eyes, are a true symbol of the Antarctic. 



They inhabit the rocky, ice-covered coastline of the continent, where they have adapted to life in extreme cold and wind. 



Their compact bodies, standing about 70 cm tall, are perfectly suited for the icy waters of their habitat. 



They possess a thick layer of blubber and densely packed feathers, providing crucial insulation against the frigid temperatures.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-cycle-and-breeding-habits">Life cycle and breeding habits</h3>



Each year, these birds undertake a remarkable journey to their breeding grounds, often traveling great distances over ice and through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/west-antarctic-ice-sheet-melting-will-accelerate-regardless-of-climate-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">treacherous waters</a>. 



They form large colonies, sometimes comprising thousands of birds, to lay their eggs and raise their young. 



The breeding season, starting around October, sees the penguins engaging in intricate courtship rituals and fiercely defending their nests from predators and other penguins.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feeding-predation-and-survival">Feeding, predation and survival</h3>



Adélie penguins are proficient swimmers, diving into the icy waters to hunt for krill, fish, and squid. Their diet primarily consists of Antarctic krill, making them a vital part of the Southern Ocean's ecosystem. 



They are not without their predators, however. Seals and orcas hunt adult penguins, while skuas and giant petrels pose a threat to their eggs and chicks.



Their survival in such an extreme environment is a testament to their remarkable adaptations. 



Adélie penguins have special adaptations like a counter-current heat exchange system in their wings to conserve heat, and their strong, webbed feet make them adept at navigating slippery ice.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-climate-change">Impact of climate change</h3>



Climate change poses a significant threat to Adélie penguins. The loss of sea ice and changes in krill abundance due to warming temperatures are affecting their breeding and feeding patterns. 



Researchers closely monitor these changes, as the penguins serve as indicators of the health of the Antarctic ecosystem.



In summary, Adélie penguins, with their endearing waddle and impressive resilience, are not just icons of Antarctica but also vital components of its ecosystem. 



They remind us of the beauty and fragility of the natural world, urging us to understand and protect the environments that sustain such remarkable wildlife. 



As we continue to explore and appreciate the wonders of the Antarctic, the Adélie penguin stands as a symbol of the wild and pristine nature that still exists in our world today.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ecy.4196" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Adélie penguins use sea ice to migrate thousands of miles each year

Point Blue Conservation Science, a non-profit organization based in Petaluma,...

<a href="https://www.idausa.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">In Defense of Animals</a>, an animal advocacy organization, has released its annual list of the "10 Worst Zoos for Elephants" in North America for 2023. 



This list highlights the plight of male <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-is-the-value-of-elephants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a> in U.S. zoos, emphasizing their inadequate living conditions and mistreatment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-horrific-conditions">Horrific conditions</h2>



Topping the list is the <a href="https://lazoo.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Zoo &amp; Botanical Gardens</a>, which has been criticized for the treatment of Billy, its lone Asian bull elephant. Actor and musician Harley Quinn Smith supports the organization's call for the release of all elephants to reputable sanctuaries.



The list includes various zoos across the United States, with institutions from California, Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Missouri, Oklahoma, Florida, and Oregon being named. 



These zoos have been called out for their treatment of bull <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-elephant-day-understanding-celebrating-and-protecting-earths-gentle-giants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a>, which often includes solitary housing, separation from females, deprivation of food, and invasive breeding practices.



“A natural life is impossible for male elephants in captivity. Our 2023 list of the 10 Worst Zoos for Elephants reveals how incarcerated bull elephants are leading tormented, tragic lives in U.S. zoos,” said Courtney Scott, Elephant Consultant for In Defense of Animals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-billy-the-elephant-at-the-l-a-zoo">Billy the elephant at the L.A. Zoo</h2>



<a href="https://www.helpbilly-vfta.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Billy, at the Los Angeles Zoo</a>, has become a symbol of the suffering endured by male elephants in captivity. 



He has experienced invasive sperm extractions and exhibits signs of psychological distress, like constant head-bobbing, in his small enclosure. 



This case, along with others, has prompted calls for action, with celebrities like Cher and Lily Tomlin advocating for the release of elephants like Billy to sanctuaries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-important-work-from-in-defense-of-animals">Important work from In Defense of Animals</h2>



In Defense of Animals argues that the natural physical and emotional needs of male elephants cannot be met in a zoo environment, leading to their suffering. 



The organization urges zoos to end breeding programs, halt elephant imports, and transition existing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-do-elephants-eat-study-shows-they-have-unique-dietary-preferences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a> to sanctuaries. 



Their vision is for all zoos to close their elephant exhibits, as 34 zoos have already done, and to stop subjecting bull elephants to the harsh conditions of zoo life.



“Male elephants are difficult and dangerous to keep because their natural physical and emotional needs are impossible to meet in a zoo environment," said Marilyn Kroplick, M.D., President of In Defense of Animals.



"Zoos across the country are forcing bull <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-elephants-got-their-incredible-iconic-trunks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a> to lead tormented, tragic lives. Before you buy a zoo ticket, take a hard look at the invasive sexual procedures, solitary confinement, and damaged bodies of bull elephants.” 



This statement underscores the organization's call for a reevaluation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elephant-behavior-provides-new-insights-into-human-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephant</a> captivity and a push towards more humane and natural living conditions for these majestic animals.



Here is the list of the 10 worst elephant zoos in the U.S.:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.idausa.org/assets/files/campaign/Elephants/ttwz2023/be-twz2023-billy-at-the-los-angeles-zoo-002-1023-credit-elephant-guardians-of-los-angeles-1123.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Zoo</a>, Los Angeles, Calif. </li>



<li><a href="https://www.idausa.org/assets/files/campaign/Elephants/ttwz2023/be-twz2023-elephant-thai-houston-zoo-920-0623-credit-houston-zoo-facebook-1123.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Houston Zoo</a>, Houston, Texas </li>



<li><a href="https://www.idausa.org/assets/files/campaign/Elephants/ttwz2023/be-twz2023-abq-biopark-zoo-albert-1023-credit-nancy-arenas-1123.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Albuquerque BioPark Zoo</a>, Albuquerque, N.M. </li>



<li><a href="https://www.idausa.org/assets/files/campaign/Elephants/ttwz2023/be-twz2023-denver-zoo-elephants-105-1123-credit-anna-staat-1123.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Zoo</a>, Denver, Colo. </li>



<li><a href="https://www.idausa.org/assets/files/campaign/Elephants/ttwz2023/be-twz2023-elephant-tamani-kansas-city-zoo-and-aquarium-760-1023-credit-kansas-city-zoo--aquarium-facebook-1123.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kansas City Zoo</a>, Kansas City, Mo. </li>



<li><a href="https://www.idausa.org/assets/files/campaign/Elephants/ttwz2023/be-twz2023-dallas-zoo-007-1023-credit-the-elephant-initiative-1123.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dallas Zoo</a>, Dallas, Texas </li>



<li><a href="https://www.idausa.org/assets/files/campaign/Elephants/ttwz2023/be-twz2023-screenshot-ok-city-zoo-elephants-601-1123-credit-alyssa-iverson-1123.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oklahoma City Zoo</a>, Oklahoma City, Okla. </li>



<li><a href="https://www.idausa.org/assets/files/campaign/Elephants/ttwz2023/be-twz2023-st.-louis-zoo-002-1023-credit-rion-harper-and-sasha-zemmel-1123.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">St Louis Zoo</a>, St Louis, Mo. </li>



<li><a href="https://www.idausa.org/assets/files/campaign/Elephants/ttwz2023/be-twz2023-zootampa-at-lowry-park-0010-1123-credit-in-defense-of-animals-1223-duplicate.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zoo Tampa</a>, Tampa, Fla. </li>



<li><a href="https://www.idausa.org/assets/files/campaign/Elephants/ttwz2023/be-twz2023-samudra-and-samson-oregon-zoo-551-1122-credit-in-defense-of-animals-1123.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon Zoo</a>, Portland, Ore.</li>
</ul>



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



As discussed above, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/african-savannah-elephants-need-connected-habitats-for-stability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a> are among the largest and most majestic land mammals on Earth. Their presence in zoos has been a subject of both fascination and controversy. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitat-and-adaptation-in-zoos">Habitat and adaptation in zoos</h3>



Zoos provide a unique opportunity for the public to witness elephants up close. These facilities recreate habitats to simulate the natural environments of African and Asian <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/for-asian-elephants-shrinking-habitats-will-increase-conflicts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a>. 



Expert caretakers and veterinarians closely monitor the health and well-being of these animals. They ensure that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elephants-have-taught-themselves-to-peel-bananas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a> have ample space to roam, bathe, and engage in natural behaviors. 



Enrichment activities are a crucial aspect of their care, helping to stimulate the elephants' physical and cognitive skills.



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



Zoos play a pivotal role in conservation efforts. Many participate in breeding programs aimed at increasing the population of endangered <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/african-elephants-suddenly-dropped-dead-in-2020-and-questions-remain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephant</a> species. 



These initiatives are vital given the threats elephants face in the wild, including habitat loss, poaching, and climate change. 



Zoos also serve as educational platforms. They offer visitors insights into the lives of elephants, fostering awareness and inspiring conservation efforts beyond zoo walls.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-criticisms-of-elephants-in-zoos">Criticisms of elephants in zoos</h3>



Despite these efforts, housing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-asian-elephants-exhibit-strong-capacity-for-innovation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a> in zoos is not without challenges. Critics argue that even the best artificial environments cannot fully replicate the vast and complex habitats elephants naturally inhabit. 



Issues such as limited space can lead to health problems like foot and joint disorders. The social structure of elephants, which is intricate and dynamic in the wild, can be hard to replicate in captivity, leading to potential psychological stress.



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



The ethical implications of keeping <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elephant-teeth-have-evolved-in-response-to-climate-change-for-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a> in zoos are a topic of ongoing debate. Advocates stress the importance of zoos in conservation and education. They argue that zoos provide a sanctuary for elephants who might otherwise face threats in the wild. 



Critics, however, contend that the confinement and inevitable limitations of zoo environments do not justify their role in education or conservation. They advocate for alternative conservation strategies that focus on protecting <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/flexible-skin-folds-help-elephants-stretch-their-trunks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a> in their natural habitats.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-forward-with-elephants-in-zoos">Moving forward with elephants in zoos</h3>



The future of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asian-elephant-calls-are-more-flexible-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a> in zoos is evolving. Many zoos are re-evaluating their practices, focusing on creating more expansive and naturalistic environments. 



There is a growing emphasis on global conservation partnerships and efforts to improve conditions for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/for-asian-elephant-calves-big-sisters-are-better-than-big-brothers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a> both in captivity and in the wild.



In summary, the presence of elephants in zoos is a complex issue, balancing the benefits of conservation, education, and public engagement with the challenges and ethical considerations of captivity. 



As our understanding of these magnificent creatures grows, so too must our commitment to their well-being, whether in zoos or in their natural habitats.



-----



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



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



-----

These US zoos have horrific living conditions for elephants

In Defense of Animals, an animal advocacy organization, has released...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



—–



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



—–



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



—–

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



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



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



-----

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



-----



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



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



-----

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



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



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



-----

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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







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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



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



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



-----

What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



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



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



-----

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



---



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



---



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



---



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



---



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



---



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



---



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



---



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



---



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

News coming your way