Two iconic dinosaurs - Tyrannosaurus rex and Brachylophosaurus canadensis - have yielded a fresh line of evidence that traces of their original biology can survive for tens of millions of years. 



In new work, researchers at <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Carolina State University</a> identified hemoglobin - the oxygen-carrying protein in blood - and its iron-bearing heme group in bone extracts from both animals.



The finding strengthens a growing body of data showing that certain biomolecules can persist in exceptional fossils. It also clarifies how they change as fossils form.



Researchers have debated and re-examined soft, stretchy tissues from these same specimens for nearly two decades. 



Teams have used high-resolution imaging, antibodies, and protein sequencing to argue that the materials are genuine remnants of dinosaur biology rather than modern contaminants. The latest study adds another tool - and another confirmation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-light-unlocks-dinosaur-chemistry">Light unlocks dinosaur chemistry</h2>



The team turned to <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/resonance-raman-spectroscopy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Resonance Raman (RR) spectroscopy</a>. In this method, laser light is tuned to a molecule’s electronic transitions. This causes only that molecule to “sing” back with a strong signal.



“Raman spectroscopy essentially uses light waves to identify a molecule’s energetic ‘fingerprint,’” said physicist Hans Hallen, the study’s corresponding author. 



“Resonance Raman, which we use here, takes that process one step further by using light already tuned to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seeking-the-origins-of-the-molecule-that-made-the-universe/">molecule</a> of interest - so only that type of molecule will resonate.”



That resonance dramatically boosts the signal from specific bonds - crucial when your targets are rare, damaged molecules embedded in a complex fossil matrix.



“This strong signal allows us to find the needle (hemoglobin remnants) in the haystack (messy fossil) to see how this molecule has changed from the functional living state, revealing the chemical changes molecules undergo in deep time,” Hallen added.



RR spectra from T. rex and Brachylophosaurus extracts showed signatures consistent with heme still bound to globin proteins. In addition, they indicated heme bound to goethite, an iron oxide mineral linked to oxidized iron.



The researchers cross-checked those signals against demineralized modern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-of-a-cretaceous-ostrich-mexidracon-longimanus-with-extremely-long-arms/">ostrich</a> bone and human blood to anchor their interpretations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blood-molecules-traced-to-dinosaurs">Blood molecules traced to dinosaurs</h2>



Because Raman detects bonds rather than whole molecules, skeptics often point out that generic signals could arise from modern microbes or other contaminants. 



That’s where the extra selectivity of RR - and the structural information in the spectra - matters.



“RR identifies both bonds and structure," said paleobiologist Mary Schweitzer, a co-author on the work. 



"We know that heme is there and that it is still bound to hemoglobin protein - contaminants like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reusable-water-bottles-are-breeding-ground-for-strep-and-fecal-bacteria/">bacteria</a> don’t have those specific bonds, so we can say that the molecules are from the animal, or in this case, the dinosaur,”



The team also mapped how those spectral fingerprints shift as hemoglobin decays. After death, the protein breaks down, damaging the heme ring and oxidizing the iron inside it. 



RR data show that goethite forms on that iron, and the heme can bind to the mineral surface.



Tellingly, the researchers observed the early stages of the same degradation pathway in modern samples, suggesting that key steps happen relatively quickly and then stabilize.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dinosaur-blood-survived-fossilization">Dinosaur blood survived fossilization</h2>



Beyond confirming what the molecules are, the spectral changes reveal a plausible route for how they survived. 



Goethite is a bio-related mineral - it often forms in association with biological activity - and the new data hint that it doesn’t just grow near proteins; it can latch onto and stabilize fragments. "We didn’t know that it could bind to and stabilize <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-modified-plant-proteins-to-create-delicious-meat-alternatives/">protein</a> fragments,” Hallen said.



That matters because it shows a mechanism that locks delicate organics in place and protects them during fossilization. 



Researchers already know that heme persists in sediments far older than the age of dinosaurs, but the path from fresh blood to ancient rock has remained murky.



Pinning down the chemistry helps explain why hemoglobin, in particular, shows up as a survivor - and why some fossils preserve molecular vestiges while others do not.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-view-of-fossil-preservation">A new view of fossil preservation</h2>



The study reinforces a shift in paleontology: under the right conditions, original biochemistry can endure deep time, and modern tools can detect and interpret it. 



Instead of a binary “preserved or not,” researchers are piecing together degradation pathways, mineral partnerships, and microenvironments that favor survival.



For dinosaur biology, that means more than just curiosity. Hemoglobin and heme in blood play key roles in metabolism, oxygen transport, and overall physiology. 



Their presence, and the way they degrade, defines how tissues fossilize and what information we can still extract.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/dinosaur-bone_hemoglobin_preserved_NCSU_1m.jpg"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/dinosaur-bone_hemoglobin_preserved_NCSU_1s.webp" alt="Vessels isolated from Tyrannosaurus cortical bone by demineralization in EDTA. Credit: NC State University" class="wp-image-1985867"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vessels isolated from Tyrannosaurus cortical bone by demineralization in EDTA. Click image to enlarge. Credit: NC State University</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blood-chemistry-spans-eons">Blood chemistry spans eons</h2>



For dinosaur fossil science, mineral–organic interactions like heme–goethite may help preserve blood proteins and molecular fragments throughout Earth’s history.



“Heme has been identified in sediments that are much, much older than dinosaurs, so we know that it persists,” Schweitzer noted. 



“Understanding why <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-human-genetics-could-optimize-medical-care/">hemoglobin</a> preserves, and the role that heme plays in the process, is really important if we want to know how these ancient molecules survive through time.”



The upshot is both practical and provocative. Resonance Raman pinpoints specific ancient molecules within messy fossils, and the chemistry it reveals also serves as a preservation roadmap. 



That’s a powerful combination for anyone trying to read life’s oldest diaries written in stone.



The study is published in the <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspa.2025.0175" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society A Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences</a>.



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Hemoglobin and other blood molecules found preserved in dinosaur fossils

Two iconic dinosaurs - Tyrannosaurus rex and Brachylophosaurus canadensis - have yielded a fresh line of evidence that traces of their original biology can survive for tens of millions of years. In new work, researchers at North Carolina State University identified hemoglobin - the oxygen-carrying protein in blood - and its iron-bearing heme group in bone extracts from both animals. The finding strengthens a growing body of data showing that certain biomolecules can persist in exceptional fossils. It also clarifies how they change as fossils form. Researchers...

A,Curious,Humpback,Whale,Calf,In,The,Emerald,Blue,Water

A new <a href="https://jncc.gov.uk/our-work/climate-change-and-migratory-species-review/">UN report</a> released at COP28 reveals the severe impacts of climate change on migratory animals. The research emphasizes the dire consequences for migratory species and the potential loss of their crucial ecosystem services.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-worldwide-impacts">Worldwide impacts</h2>



The study, prepared by the <a href="https://www.bto.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Trust for Ornithology</a> (BTO), illustrates how climate change - driven by temperature increases, habitat alteration, shifts in ocean currents, and extreme weather events like wildfires - is substantially affecting migratory species worldwide.



The key impacts mentioned in the report include alterations in migratory routes, changes in breeding timings, and reduced reproductive success and survival rates. These changes not only threaten the species themselves but also the global ecosystem functions they support.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anthropogenic-emissions">Anthropogenic emissions</h2>



"Over the last several decades, anthropogenic emissions (primarily of carbon dioxide (CO2)) have rapidly increased global temperatures and altered climate patterns. Widespread and rapid changes in the atmosphere, ocean, cryosphere and biosphere have occurred, affecting both average conditions and annual variability, in particular the frequency of extreme events," wrote the study authors.



"Climate change has already caused substantial damage and increasingly irreversible losses to most species groups in terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threats-to-migratory-species">Threats to migratory species</h2>



"Migratory species are vulnerable to a wide range of threats, both climate-related and non-climate-related, as they move between countries and ecosystems on a seasonal basis."&nbsp;



"This potentially&nbsp;exposes them to the impacts of climate change at multiple locations along their migration route, with possible interactions and divergence in the timing of cues at these locations."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecosystem-services">Ecosystem services</h2>



Migratory species offer numerous benefits, including nutrition, economic development, and essential services like pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control. They play a pivotal role in climate change mitigation and resilience.&nbsp;



For example, whales sequester significant carbon amounts, and antelopes can mitigate wildfire risks through their grazing patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lack-of-evidence">Lack of evidence</h2>



"Overall, there is widespread evidence of changes in the distribution and phenology of migratory species. In particular, poleward range shifts and earlier migration and breeding are already occurring in temperature-driven medium and high latitudes, and more mixed directional shifts are&nbsp;apparent in the tropics, depending on changes in rainfall," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"The results of this review suggest that evidence on the impacts of climate change is lacking for several species groups, particularly bats, fish, South American grassland birds, and sharks and rays, as well as regionally for species residing in the tropics and Global South."



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



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-temperatures">Rising temperatures</h3>



There is strong evidence that global increases in temperature have affected most migratory species groups, and these impacts are mostly negative.&nbsp;



For instance, rising temperatures are causing changes in the reproduction and survival of krill and are having a negative impact on marine mammals and seabirds that rely on krill as a key food source.



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



Climate change is impacting migratory species distribution and timing of migration. In particular, temperature increases are driving poleward range shifts and earlier migration and breeding.&nbsp;



In some species, such as wading birds, there is a risk this will cause a mismatch between the timing of breeding and the time when prey species are most abundant.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-availability-nbsp">Water availability&nbsp;</h3>



Changes in water availability are causing the loss of wetlands and reduced river flows, which are likely to particularly impact the migration of fish and waterbirds.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-events">Extreme events</h3>



Extreme climate-related events such as landslides are causing severe habitat destruction and have already been observed at some seabird breeding sites.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-currents">Ocean currents</h3>



There is strong evidence that migratory seabirds and marine mammals will be impacted by changes in ocean currents. These changes are likely to alter the nature and functioning of many marine and terrestrial ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-demonstration-nbsp">Powerful demonstration&nbsp;</h2>



Steve Barclay is the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.



“Nature underpins the very fabric of our lives – the ecosystems, food and water security upon which we all depend, as well as the health of our economies," said Barclay.



"The challenges that these migratory species face as a result of climate change are a powerful demonstration of the need for coordinated global action to protect our environment, which is why the UK is taking a leading role in efforts to restore nature, halt biodiversity loss and achieve our stretching targets to protect 30% of land and sea by 2030.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-severe-disruptions-to-migratory-species">Severe disruptions to migratory species</h2>



Amy Fraenkel, Executive Secretary of CMS, noted that migratory species are facing severe disruptions due to climate change.&nbsp;



“Migratory species are finely tuned to the rhythms of our planet. They depend on a delicate balance, journeying vast distances to reach habitats specifically suited for their survival and reproduction," said Fraenkel.



"However, climate change is severely disrupting these critical paths, altering ecosystems and affecting the availability of resources. This disruption serves as a crucial red flag, highlighting the broader implications of climate change not just for these species, but for the interconnected web of life on Earth."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-migratory-species-need-immediate-help">Migratory species need immediate help</h2>



The report stresses the urgent need for action to assist vulnerable migratory species in adapting to climate change. Recommendations include establishing connected protected areas and robust monitoring for successful intervention assessment.&nbsp;



"The clock is ticking on the future for many iconic species. We owe it to them to raise global awareness that solutions are possible, and call on governments to use this report to take action, seeking out nature based solutions that will help migratory species and that can reduce the impacts of climate change," said Professor Galbraith, Former Chair of the <a href="https://jncc.gov.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Joint Nature Conservation Committee</a>.



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United Nations: Urgent need to protect migratory animal species

A new UN report released at COP28 reveals the severe...

Pink,Soft,Coral,With,Sea,Anemone,,(actiniaria)at,Lipe,Island,Andaman

The world's coral reefs, aside from a few that are showing surprising resilience, have been facing unprecedented challenges over the past four decades. This is largely due to the adverse effects of climate change, pollution, unsustainable coastal development, and overfishing. 



Scleractinian corals, commonly known as hard corals, have been particularly impacted. However, a ray of hope shines through the resilience of some Caribbean octocorals, also known as soft corals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-soft-coral-resilience">Studying soft coral resilience</h2>



<a href="https://arts-sciences.buffalo.edu/geology/faculty-staff/faculty/mary-alice-coffroth.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mary Alice Coffroth</a>, a respected professor emerita of geology at the <a href="https://www.buffalo.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University at Buffalo</a>, led a significant study on the resilience of soft corals. Over two years, Coffroth and her team at UB conducted an extensive survey in the Florida Keys. 



Their focus was on three species of octocorals that demonstrated an ability to survive heat waves. Coffroth emphasized the importance of this finding, stating, "The resistance and resilience of Caribbean octocorals offers clues for the future of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-study-provides-answers-to-how-coral-reefs-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral reefs</a>."



Coffroth led a dedicated team including graduate student Louis Buccella, undergraduates Katherine Eaton and Alyssa Gooding, technician Harleena Franklin, and <a href="https://arts-sciences.buffalo.edu/environment-sustainability/faculty/faculty-directory/howard-lasker.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Howard Lasker</a>, professor emeritus. Between 2015 and 2017, they focused on the symbiotic relationship between the octocorals and their algae.



Hard and soft corals rely on symbiosis with single-celled algae. Warmer waters disrupt this relationship, leading to bleaching. Coffroth, who has been studying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rescue-underway-florida-is-battling-an-unprecedented-coral-bleaching-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral reefs in the Florida Keys</a> since 1998, explained, "Bleaching can lead to coral death. It’s unclear if the algae leave or are ejected from the coral."



In this study, they examined the mechanisms contributing to the heightened resistance and resilience of three octocoral species during marine heat waves leading to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deepest-known-coral-reef-bleaching-discovered-alarming-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bleaching events</a>. This involved following the genetic makeup and density of symbiont algae before, during, and after major heat waves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-researchers-discovered">What the researchers discovered</h2>



Coffroth discovered that Caribbean octocorals predominantly harbor Breviolum symbionts. These symbionts declined in density during heatwaves but recovered quickly, contributing to lower octocoral mortality compared to their scleractinian counterparts.



“The Breviolum densities declined during the heatwaves but recovered quickly,” she explained. “Octocoral mortality was low compared to their scleractinian relatives.”



Following the 2014 El Niño and anticipating a similar event, Coffroth successfully applied for a Rapid Response Research grant from the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Science Foundation</a>. This funding allowed her team to conduct an in-depth 28-month study in the Keys, focusing on the fate of octocorals and their symbionts.



The team's regular visits to the <a href="https://www.fio.usf.edu/keys-marine-lab/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Keys Marine Lab</a> facilitated detailed observations and sample collections, enabling a comprehensive analysis of coral resilience, coloration, symbiont density, and genetic identity.



Coffroth highlighted the timeliness and relevance of their findings, given the current global warming trends, increased storms, and major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/devastating-coral-bleaching-is-expected-around-the-world-within-the-next-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bleaching events.</a> She pointed out that corals today are withstanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pacific-coral-reefs-have-naturally-increased-their-heat-tolerance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">higher temperatures</a> than in the 1960s.



“There is evidence that corals are withstanding higher temperature now than they did in the 1960s,” she said. “That signals evolution, but the problem is that climate change is moving too fast, faster than evolution.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-significance-of-coral-reefs">Ecological significance of coral reefs</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reefs-in-some-parts-of-the-world-actually-benefit-from-warming-el-nino-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coral reefs</a>, beyond their stunning beauty, play crucial roles in protecting coastal regions, providing habitats for significant marine life, supporting tourism, and contributing to medical research. Coffroth remarked on the stark contrast between the coral reefs of the 1970s and the present, underscoring the dramatic changes they have undergone.



“If you a see picture of coral reefs when I started diving in the 1970s and compare it with one now, it makes you want to cry,” she said. “The change is just amazing.”



While acknowledging the importance of their observations, Coffroth stressed the need for further research to understand the variations within the coral and symbiont genera. She noted an increase in both the bleaching of coral species that had previously shown resilience, and the emergence of new resilient ones.



“I’m seeing species bleach that have never bleached before but also corals showing more resilience,” she said. “There is a lot of variation within both the animal and symbiont genera. We need to understand the variation.”



The ultimate goal is to continue exploring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recent-coral-recovery-in-the-great-barrier-reef-has-paused/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral reef dynamics</a> and the robustness of symbiotic algae, alongside efforts to mitigate environmental damage caused by human activities. 



Coffroth concluded, "We can’t stop global warming, but the hope is that we can slow it down," underscoring the urgent need for continued research and action in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adj6788" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Some corals and reefs are showing surprising resilience as global waters warm

The world's coral reefs, aside from a few that are...

3d,Rendering,Of,Tyrannosaurus,Rex,,And,Its,Young,One,,Storming

A recent discovery sheds light on the dietary habits of a juvenile tyrannosaur, revealing its last meal to be two baby <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-self-regulated-their-body-temperature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaurs</a>. This finding offers a rare glimpse into the life and development of these prehistoric creatures.



In the Alberta Badlands, a hotspot for dinosaur hunters, a remarkable fossil was unearthed in 2009. It was the ribcage of a juvenile gorgosaurus, a close relative of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/t-rex-may-have-weighed-up-to-33000-pounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">T. rex</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-juvenile-gorgosaurus">Juvenile gorgosaurus</h2>



After meticulous preparation, researchers at the <a href="https://tyrrellmuseum.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Tyrell Museum of Palaeontology</a> discovered the remains of two small bird-like dinosaurs, known as citipes, inside the ribcage.



The juvenile gorgosaurus, about seven years old and weighing approximately 330kg, was in a developmental stage equivalent to a human teenager.&nbsp;Its size was roughly a tenth of a fully grown adult tyrannosaur.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tyrannosaur-dietary-shifts">Tyrannosaur dietary shifts</h2>



The presence of the citipes' hind limbs within its ribcage is "solid evidence that tyrannosaurs drastically changed their diet as they grew up,'' according to Dr. Darla Zelenitsky from the <a href="https://www.ucalgary.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Calgary</a>.



The findings highlight a significant shift in the feeding habits of tyrannosaurs as they matured.&nbsp;



"We now know that these teenage (tyrannosaurs) hunted small, young dinosaurs," explained Dr. Zelenitsky. 



Dr. Francois Therrien described these adult tyrannosaurs as "quite indiscriminate eaters." They probably pounced on large prey, "biting through bone and scraping off flesh," he told BBC News.



But, these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-tyrannosaurs-were-surprisingly-small/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immature</a> tyrannosaurs were probably not ready to jump into a group of horned dinosaurs, where the adults weighed thousands of kilograms, said Dr. Zelenitsky.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-selective-eaters">Selective eaters</h2>



Interestingly, researchers found only the legs of the baby dinosaurs inside the gorgosaurus. This suggests that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-tyrannosaurs-practiced-biting-as-they-waited-for-adult-teeth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">young</a> tyrannosaur was selective, possibly preferring the meatiest parts.



"The rock within the ribcage was removed to expose what was hidden inside," explained Dr. Therrien. "And lo and behold - the complete hind legs of two baby dinosaurs, both under a year old."



Dr. Zelenitsky said that the teenage gorgosaurus seems to have wanted the drumsticks - probably because that's the meatiest part.



"This animal was selecting and even dissecting its prey - biting off the legs and swallowing them whole."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-transformations-of-tyrannosaurs">Physical transformations of tyrannosaurs</h2>



As tyrannosaurs grew, they underwent significant physical transformations. Juveniles were lighter and had blade-like teeth, whereas adults developed rounder teeth, dubbed "killer bananas" by Dr. Therrien.&nbsp;



This change in dentition reflects a shift in feeding strategy from selective predation in juveniles to a more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/t-rex-was-even-more-fearsome-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">powerful</a> and indiscriminate approach in adults.



The discovery provides a window into the lives of these ancient creatures, debunking the stereotype of dinosaurs as mindless monsters. 



Professor Steve Brusatte is a palaeontologist from the <a href="https://www.ed.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Edinburgh</a>. He said that seeing prey in the dinosaur's guts gave a real insight into the animals. "They weren't just monsters, they were real, living things and pretty sophisticated feeders."



In the 1993 film Jurassic Park, a giant T. rex chased a car through a fictional theme park. Professor Brusatte noted that an adult T. rex wouldn't have chased after a car - its body was too big, and it couldn't move that fast.



"It would be the youngsters - (like this gorgosaur) - the children of T. rex that you'd have to keep an eye on."



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Juvenile tyrannosaurs hunted baby dinosaurs as part of their diet

A recent discovery sheds light on the dietary habits of...

In a study led by the <a href="https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/1.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Göttingen</a>, researchers have unveiled striking dynamics in plant-pollinator networks, particularly highlighting the amplifying effect of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-expansion-linked-to-global-decline-of-wild-pollinators/">urbanization</a> on seasonal variations. 



This research, critical in the era of rapid urbanization, offers novel insights into biodiversity within tropical megacities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urbanization-and-biodiversity">Urbanization and biodiversity</h2>



The global trend towards urbanization is often viewed as a threat to biodiversity. However, the researchers pointed out that flowering plants are often more diverse in cities than in the countryside.



This phenomenon is attributed to the proliferation of flowering plants and agricultural crops in urban areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-pollinator-interactions-nbsp">Plant-pollinator interactions&nbsp;</h2>



"All species engage in interactions, and the complex ecological networks resulting from these interactions - such as those between plants and their pollinators - are key components of ecosystems," wrote the study authors.



"While our knowledge on the structure of interaction networks has improved considerably in recent decades, we still know little about how dynamic these interactions are across environmental, spatial and temporal gradients."



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



The research team, led by Dr. Gabriel Marcacci, now a postdoc at the Swiss Ornithological Institute and the University of Neuchâtel, embarked on an extensive year-long study in Bengaluru, India.&nbsp;



This bustling metropolis, emblematic of rapid urban growth in the tropics, provided a fertile ground for examining the interactions between plants and their pollinators.



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



The study encompassed all local seasons: the mild-dry winter, the hot-dry summer, and the rainy monsoon. By analyzing bee species, the plants they visited, and the frequency of these interactions, the team constructed detailed plant-pollinator networks for each location and season.



The researchers found that the interactions between plants and pollinators, which are important for agricultural production, are surprisingly dynamic.&nbsp;



There was a significant variation in the plant and bee species involved in pollination across different seasons.&nbsp;



To identify the factors contributing to the variations in plant-pollinator interactions, the team considered multiple elements: the time of year, proximity to the city center, and the degree of urbanization, indicated by the presence of "sealed surfaces" like roads and buildings.



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



Dr. Marcacci emphasized the significance of this research for understanding tropical urban ecosystems.&nbsp;



"Our study provides new insights into the role of urbanization in the dynamics of networks involving plants and pollinators in the tropics, which have been little studied. This is particularly important as current and future urban expansions are largely occurring in tropical regions, where they are subject to different ecological, climate and social factors than in temperate zones," said Dr. Marcacci.



"Our results point to major changes in plant-pollinator networks over the course of the year and to the little-recognized importance of seasonality for the interactions between plants and their pollinators, especially in rapidly growing tropical megacities," wrote the study authors.



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



This study not only contributes to our understanding of urban ecology but also calls for thoughtful urban planning and biodiversity conservation, particularly in tropical megacities facing rapid growth.&nbsp;



The unique dynamics of plant-pollinator networks in these settings are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ensuring sustainable agricultural production - an aspect that city planners and environmentalists must consider in the face of escalating urban expansion.



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/ele.14324" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology Letters</a>.



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Urbanization alters the dynamics of plant-pollinator networks

In a study led by the University of Göttingen, researchers...

A new study predicts a significant expansion in the nesting range of green turtles (Chelonia mydas) due to rising global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-temperatures-linked-to-vision-impairment/">temperatures</a>.



The Mediterranean green turtle is a species that is often overshadowed in climate change discussions.



A team of researchers led by Chiara Mancino has unveiled how global warming could reshape the nesting dynamics of these turtles, potentially altering the ecological landscape of the Mediterranean.



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



"Climate change is reshaping global ecosystems at an unprecedented rate, with major impacts on biodiversity. Therefore, understanding how organisms can withstand change is key to identify priority conservation objectives," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;&nbsp;



"Marine ectotherms are being extremely impacted because their biology and phenology are directly related to temperature. Among these species, sea turtles are particularly problematic because they roam over both marine and terrestrial habitats throughout their life cycles."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transforming-the-coastline-nbsp">Transforming the coastline&nbsp;</h2>



The experts theorized that nesting ground availability for green turtles will increase in the Mediterranean following hotter summers and winters, shifting their nesting locations in response to rising temperatures.



Based on their modeling study, the team predicts that the turtles will expand their nesting range by 60 percent under the worst case emissions scenario.&nbsp;



This expansion is set to transform the Mediterranean coastline, extending the turtles' nesting grounds beyond their current range in Turkey and Cyprus to vast stretches of North African, Italian, and Greek shores.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-predictive-accuracy-nbsp">High predictive accuracy&nbsp;</h2>



For the investigation, Mancino and colleagues developed a model to predict the suitability of various points on the Mediterranean coastline as green turtle nesting locations.



First, the researchers tested the predictive accuracy of their model against 178 verified nesting sites recorded from 1982 to 2019. The findings revealed a high predictive accuracy, with sea surface temperature, salinity, and human population density emerging as pivotal factors influencing nesting site suitability.



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



The researchers analyzed four distinct greenhouse gas emission scenarios and their implications for green turtle nesting by 2100.&nbsp;



The correlation was clear: more severe climate conditions led to a broader nesting range. The worst-case scenario predicted a dramatic 62.4% increase in nesting range, extending to the North African coastline up to Algeria, significant parts of Italy and Greece, and the southern Adriatic Sea.



"Our models show an increase in nesting probability in the western Mediterranean Sea, irrespective of the climate scenario we consider. Contrary to what is found in most global change studies, the worse the climate change scenario, the more suitable areas for green turtles will potentially increase," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



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



However, this potential expansion is not without its challenges. The experts warn that this increase in green turtle nesting range in the heavily populated central and western Mediterranean would bring them into increased contact with humans and urbanized beaches, which could negatively affect nesting success.&nbsp;



The researchers emphasize the urgency for future studies to focus on mitigating these potential negative impacts.&nbsp;



"To better inform future management of marine turtles, there is the need to understand future threats, as well as to couple predictions of marine turtle distribution with an assessment of exposure to these threats," wrote the study authors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-green-turtles-and-biodiversity-collapse">Green turtles and biodiversity collapse</h2>



The Mediterranean Sea represents one of the most vulnerable regions in the world when considering the impacts of global warming, noted the researchers.



"The Mediterranean has always been hugely exploited by humans, with important and potentially negative interactions between human activities and climate changes."



"The basin currently hosts more than 500 million inhabitants, a third of whom live along the coasts, and is the first tourist destination in the world with 360 million visitors per year."&nbsp;



"The combination of climate change and human impacts clearly generate the starting baseline for a biodiversity collapse, especially for species exploiting at the same time marine and terrestrial habitats as sea turtles."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-46958-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Nesting range of green turtles will explode in a warmer climate 

A new study predicts a significant expansion in the nesting...

A new study from <a href="https://www.cornell.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell University</a> reveals that paper wasps possess the ability to recognize individual faces, a skill that seems to enhance their social cooperation and potentially their cognitive abilities. 



The research offers compelling behavioral evidence of an evolutionary link between individual recognition and social cooperation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-interactions-and-intelligence-nbsp">Social interactions and intelligence&nbsp;</h2>



Study senior author Professor Michael Sheehan noted that the research delves into the relationship between social interactions and intelligence in animals.



The findings are particularly significant as they suggest that the ability to recognize individual faces may not just be a trivial aspect of wasp behavior but a fundamental feature that influences their social dynamics and cognitive development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genomic-adaptations-nbsp">Genomic adaptations&nbsp;</h2>



Through genomic sequencing, the researchers discovered that populations of paper wasps capable of recognizing each other exhibited recent adaptations in brain regions associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ravens-develop-sophisticated-cognitive-skills-by-the-age-of-four-months/">cognitive abilities</a>, such as learning, memory, and vision.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinct-wasp-populations-nbsp">Distinct wasp populations&nbsp;</h2>



The research was focused on two distinct populations of paper wasps (Polistes fuscatus): one from Louisiana, with more uniform appearances, and another from Ithaca, featuring diverse color patterns on their faces.&nbsp;



“The evidence for strong recent positive selection on cognition, learning and memory is much stronger in the northern populations compared to the southern populations," said Professor Sheehan.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behavioral-differences-nbsp">Behavioral differences&nbsp;</h2>



Experiments indicated a stark behavioral difference between the two groups of paper wasps. Unlike the southern wasps, the northern population displayed the ability to recognize individuals and showed greater social cooperation.



Interestingly, the study highlights the role of facial color patterns in these behavioral differences. Southern paper wasps exhibit similar red color patterns on their faces, whereas northern ones have varied black and yellow patterns.&nbsp;



“As you go further north, you find the individuals become more variable in their color patterning, such that roughly around the Carolinas, they start becoming substantially variable and continue to be more variable as you go further north,” said Professor Sheehan. In the Ithaca population, every individual was pretty distinct, he said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aggression-levels-nbsp">Aggression levels&nbsp;</h2>



During lab experiments, aggression levels were recorded as wasps from both populations were introduced to strangers.&nbsp;



Northern wasps showed aggression towards strangers but were less hostile towards wasps they had previously met, suggesting recognition.&nbsp;



By contrast, the southern wasps treated all individuals similarly, indicating a lack of individual recognition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-cohesion">Social cohesion</h2>



The ability to recognize individuals appears to make northern wasps more selective in their interactions, leading to more stable social groups.&nbsp;



On the other hand, the southern wasps, with less individual recognition, tend to have less consistent and cohesive social interactions.



“Individuals in the southern population treat everyone the same,” said Professor Sheehan. “They don’t show any evidence of changing their behavior as a result of previously meeting that particular individual, which suggests they’re not recognizing them.”



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



While further research is needed, Professor Sheehan said there’s some indication that wasps from the northern population have more stable nesting groups, whereas the southern wasps had high turnover of members when they occasionally made nests.



The data suggests that being able to recognize individuals makes northern wasps more selective and better able to manage their social profiles, whereas the more homogenous-looking southern wasps interact more indiscriminately and have less consistent, cohesive social interactions, Sheehan said.



The study was funded by the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health. The findings are published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2023.11.032" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Paper wasps that can recognize faces are more cooperative

A new study from Cornell University reveals that paper wasps...

Tropical coral reefs, celebrated for their extraordinary beauty and biodiversity, are facing significant challenges due to the relentless pace of global warming. However, a novel solution to boost reef recovery may be found in an unexpected ally: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seabirds-need-ocean-wide-protection-to-survive-human-impacts/">seabirds</a>.&nbsp;



A recent study led by <a href="https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lancaster University</a> has uncovered a fascinating interaction between seabirds and coral reefs.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reef-recovery-insights">Reef recovery insights</h2>



According to the experts, the presence of seabirds on islands located nearby tropical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-study-provides-answers-to-how-coral-reefs-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral reefs</a> can boost coral growth rates on such reefs by more than double. This discovery is not just about growth rates; it also pertains to the resilience of coral reefs. 



Reefs located near <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/incredible-journey-seabird-rode-out-a-typhoon-for-11-hours/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seabird</a> colonies can bounce-back much quicker from bleaching events. This is particularly significant given the increasing frequency of bleaching events due to rising sea temperatures, which often result in widespread <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-fish-have-feces-that-is-deadly-to-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral mortality</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-reef-recovery">Studying reef recovery</h2>



The focus of the study was on Acropora, a critical type of coral known for its structural complexity and importance in sustaining fish populations and reef growth.&nbsp;



The researchers noted a significant difference in recovery times based on the presence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-heatwaves-are-causing-massive-seabird-mortality-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seabirds</a>. For instance, Acropora around islands with seabirds were found to recover from bleaching events by around 10 months faster compared to reefs located away from seabird colonies.



The study highlights the crucial role of seabirds in shortening recovery times for corals, which could be pivotal in their ability to withstand the rapid pace of climate change.&nbsp;



The shorter recovery times could make the difference between continuing to bounce back for some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reef-plastic-pollution-increases-with-depth-and-near-protected-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral reefs</a> in the face of climate change, due to which damaging <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deepest-known-coral-reef-bleaching-discovered-alarming-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bleaching events</a> now occur much more frequently than in earlier periods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seabird-derived-nutrients-nbsp">Seabird-derived nutrients&nbsp;</h2>



The connection between seabirds and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pacific-coral-reefs-have-naturally-increased-their-heat-tolerance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral health</a> is rooted in the nutrient-rich guano produced by these birds. Seabirds that feed on fish in the open ocean far from islands return to islands to roost, while depositing nitrogen- and phosphorus-rich nutrients in the form of guano. 



This nutrient transfer, critical for coral growth, occurs when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poo-from-fish-that-eat-coral-is-beneficial-for-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">guano</a> is washed into the sea, fertilizing the corals and other marine species.



“Our results clearly show that seabird-derived nutrients are directly driving faster coral growth rates and faster recovery rates in Acropora coral,” said lead author Casey Benkwitt, an expert in Marine Biology at Lancaster.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-experimental-approach-nbsp">Experimental approach&nbsp;</h2>



The research team conducted their study in a remote Indian Ocean archipelago, comparing reefs near seabird-populated islands to those near rat-infested islands, which negatively impact seabird populations.&nbsp;



The study also involved an experimental approach where some Acropora corals were transplanted between islands. This confirmed that the presence of seabirds, and not other factors, was responsible for the nutrient enrichment and enhanced coral growth.



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



“This faster recovery may be critical as the average time between successive bleaching events was 5.9 years in 2016 – a reduction from 27 years in the 1980s. Even small reductions in recovery times during this window may be key to maintaining coral cover over the short-term,” Benkwitt said.



These findings not only highlight a natural solution for enhancing coral resilience but also emphasize the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the far-reaching impacts of biodiversity conservation efforts.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adj0390" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Nutrients from seabird poop accelerate coral reef recovery

Tropical coral reefs, celebrated for their extraordinary beauty and biodiversity,...

3d,Render,Dinosaur.,This,Is,A,3d,Render

An intriguing new study introduces the 'longevity bottleneck' hypothesis, which suggests human aging may be intricately linked to the long period of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-ancestors-coexisted-with-dinosaurs-yes-according-to-shocking-new-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur</a> dominance on Earth. 



This concept was brought to light by Professor João Pedro de Magalhães, a renowned expert in the field of aging from the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/index.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Birmingham</a>. The hypothesis presents a fascinating connection between the reign of dinosaurs over 100 million years ago and the biological aging processes observed in mammals, including humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mesozoic-era-and-mammalian-aging">Mesozoic Era and mammalian aging</h2>



The Mesozoic Era, marked by the domination of dinosaurs, posed significant challenges for early mammals. According to Professor de Magalhães, mammals during this era were under constant pressure for rapid reproduction, primarily due to the threat posed by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-are-helping-astronomers-in-the-search-for-extraterrestrial-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaurs</a>. 



This prolonged period of evolutionary stress, spanning over 100 million years, is believed to have led to the loss or inactivation of longevity-related genes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/incredible-discovery-some-mammals-attacked-dinosaurs-and-they-often-won-the-battle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early mammals</a>.



Professor Magalhães elaborates on this theory. He states, "We and these mammals, such as elephants and whales, live with the genetic hangups from the Mesozoic era and we age surprisingly faster than many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-secrets-of-the-evolution-of-prehistoric-reptiles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reptiles</a>."



He further adds, "The 'longevity bottleneck hypothesis' may shed light on evolutionary forces that have shaped the way that mammals have aged over millions of years. While humans are among the longest-living animals, there are many reptiles and other species that exhibit a much slower aging process and minimal signs of senescence."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dinosaur-dominance-and-human-aging">Dinosaur dominance and human aging</h2>



Professor de Magalhães explains that the earliest mammals, relegated to the lower tiers of the food chain, evolved to prioritize rapid reproduction as a survival strategy during the age of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-impact-sparked-two-years-of-darkness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaurs</a>. This evolutionary pressure, he proposes, significantly impacts how modern humans age.



"We see examples in the animal world of truly remarkable repair and regeneration. That genetic information would have been unnecessary for early mammals that were lucky to not end up as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/t-rex-may-have-had-brains-and-brawn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">T Rex</a> food," says Professor de Magalhães. 



He highlights that while mammals including humans, whales, and elephants have evolved to grow larger and live longer, they still bear the genetic consequences of the Mesozoic era, aging faster than many reptiles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-and-future-research">Broader implications and future research</h2>



Professor de Magalhães suggests that this hypothesis, while still in the realm of theory, opens up numerous intriguing research directions. One such avenue is exploring why cancer may be more prevalent in mammals than in other species, possibly due to the rapid aging process instigated during the dinosaur era.



The 'longevity bottleneck' hypothesis posits a profound and previously unexplored connection between the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-winters-weakened-the-dinosaurs-before-the-asteroid-hit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reign of dinosaurs</a> and the aging process in mammals. This theory provides a novel perspective on the evolutionary history of aging, while also paving the way for further research into the genetic and environmental factors that have influenced mammalian longevity over millions of years. 



Professor de Magalhães' pioneering work opens up a new frontier in understanding the complex interplay between evolution, genetics, and aging.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/bies.202300098" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BioEssays</a>.



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How dinosaurs influence human aging 65 million years after extinction

An intriguing new study introduces the 'longevity bottleneck' hypothesis, which...

In our local neighborhoods, encountering distressed wildlife is not uncommon. People often turn to social media seeking advice on what to do when they find injured or disoriented wildlife. The answer typically lies with local wildlife rehabilitation centers. 



These centers, run by licensed individuals and organizations, play a crucial role in caring for sick and injured wildlife. They handle hundreds of thousands of wild animals annually across the United States, offering a unique perspective on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thermal-imaging-can-help-monitor-animal-health-in-the-wild/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal health</a> and environmental changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-how-humans-impact-wildlife">Studying how humans impact wildlife</h2>



A few years ago, Tara Miller, a biologist then with <a href="https://defenders.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Defenders of Wildlife</a>, came across Wendy Hall, cofounder of the <a href="https://adirondackwildlife.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Adirondack Wildlife Refuge</a>. Hall shared observations about unusual animal occurrences, like the appearance of black vultures, typically a southern species, in the Adirondacks. 



These insights, linked to climate change, sparked Miller's interest in using wildlife rehabilitation data to study the environmental impact on North American wildlife.



Miller, who uses they/them pronouns, spearheaded a pioneering study while at <a href="https://www.bu.edu/articles/2023/new-study-identifies-greatest-threat-to-wildlife-across-north-america-canada/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boston University's Urban Biogeoscience and Environmental Health</a> program. Collaborating with 94 wildlife centers across the U.S. and Canada, Miller's team analyzed records of over a thousand species. This study aimed to identify regional threats to wildlife and assess the effectiveness of rehab centers in treating these animals.



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



The research revealed alarming trends. Human activities, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lead-ammunition-is-a-silent-threat-to-bald-eagle-recovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lead poisoning</a> in bald eagles and sea turtles entangled in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dynamic-ocean-closures-offer-protection-from-accidental-catch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing gear</a>, have a significant impact on wildlife. 



The study also noted an increase in animals admitted to rehab centers following extreme weather events, a phenomenon linked to climate change. Miller emphasizes the importance of their findings in understanding the broader, direct impact that people have on wildlife. 



“A lot of what we found in the research isn’t going to shock anyone, but you want to be able to tell people, ‘It’s not just this one animal. This is happening across the country,’” Miller says. “I think that was what was so cool about the work we were able to do with this huge dataset: tie together what rehabbers across the country are seeing and validate it. We were able to find a lot of these trends for the big picture of how humans are impacting wildlife.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-data-collection-and-challenges">Data collection and challenges</h2>



Initially, accessing wildlife rehab records was a challenge, as most were stored in physical formats. However, with digitalization efforts, like the Wildlife Center of Virginia’s <a href="https://www.wildlifecenter.org/training-opportunities/WILD-ONe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WILD-ONe</a> patient database system, researchers could analyze vast amounts of data. This system also plays a role in identifying wildlife diseases that might affect human and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increasing-plant-based-food-production-would-have-extremely-positive-impact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">livestock health</a>.



“This was a gigantic dataset, with more than 600,000 observations,” says&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bu.edu/biology/people/profiles/richard-b-primack/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Richard Primack</a>, a BU College of Arts &amp; Sciences professor of biology, who was Miller’s PhD advisor and a coauthor on the paper. Primack says he encourages all of his students to consider what questions they want their data to address. In Miller’s case, the big question was, “What are the major threats to wildlife?”



Miller's interactions with wildlife rehabilitators were integral to the study. These conversations often happened amidst the rehabbers' busy schedules, highlighting their dedication and willingness to contribute to the project.



“I had phone calls with rehabbers where they would have to jump off because they had a baby squirrel they had to go feed, or one time someone had a porcupine autopsy they had to get back to,” Miller says. “People were so generous with their time and of their data, and so enthusiastic about this whole project.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-people-threaten-wildlife-in-many-ways">People threaten wildlife in many ways</h2>



The data showed that human disturbances caused injuries to 40% of the animals admitted to rehab centers. These disturbances included <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-killed-roads-underestimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vehicle accidents</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/window-collisions-are-a-leading-cause-of-bird-mortality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">building collisions</a>, and fishing incidents. 



Miller, in a tone of incredulity, noted, "Forty percent of the animals arrive at wildlife rehab centers largely due to negative impacts from human activities. How can we modify our policies and behaviors to lessen our impact on these animals?"



Regarding seasonal trends, the researchers found that vehicle collisions, peaking from May to July, affected reptiles disproportionately. During spring, summer, and early fall -- periods of heightened agricultural and construction activities -- pesticide poisonings rose. 



In the winter, following the hunting season, lead poisonings became more prevalent, especially in animals like bald eagles. This increase is often due to many hunters using lead ammunition for deer hunting. Lead from the bullets subsequently poisons scavengers like eagles and vultures feeding on the remains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-policy-and-environmental-health">Future policy and environmental health</h2>



Wildlife rehab centers eventually release about one-third of the animals they receive back into the wild. However, this release rate varies significantly among different species.



“For example, pelicans are injured but then are often released [68%], whereas bald eagles have a very low chance of being released [20%],” Primack says. “This presents a very interesting question of why the threats to wildlife are so different between these two groups of large birds.”



The team hopes their research will aid wildlife rehab centers in securing grants and funding. It also aims to encourage community-level changes to protect wildlife from people. Their plans would include implementing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-animals-feel-safe-using-wildlife-crossings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife underpasses and overpasses</a>, using bird-friendly window designs, and promoting the use of non-lead fishing gear and ammunition.



Post-graduation, Miller has shifted focus to policy research at the <a href="https://www.virginia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Virginia</a>, addressing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vast-amounts-of-edna-captured-in-air-quality-monitoring-stations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental health</a> issues affecting human communities. This transition underscores the interconnectedness of wildlife and human health and the broader environmental impacts of policy decisions.



In summary, this study, led by Tara Miller, marks a significant step in understanding the threats facing wildlife and the role of human activities in these challenges. It calls for a collective effort in policy-making, community awareness, and individual actions to create a safer environment for wildlife and, consequently, for ourselves.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0006320723003968" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biological Conservation</a>.



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People are a greater threat to wildlife than climate change or anything else

In our local neighborhoods, encountering distressed wildlife is not uncommon....

Animals use self-control to plan and achieve long-term goals. Birds, for instance, demonstrate delayed gratification when they resist a small, immediate reward in favor of waiting for a better one. Recent research has revealed intriguing differences in self-control behaviors between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-birds-dream-of-flying-scientists-say-they-now-know-the-answer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird</a> species, particularly in the presence of others. 



This study was spearheaded by researchers from <a href="https://www.aru.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anglia Ruskin University</a> (ARU) in Cambridge, UK, and the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a>. It presents a fascinating comparison of the behavioral patterns of Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius) and New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides) in the context of delayed gratification.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-self-control-in-bird-species">Studying self-control in bird species</h2>



Eurasian <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jays-with-greater-intelligence-have-more-self-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jays</a> and New Caledonian <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/big-brains-and-bodies-helped-crows-expand-across-the-globe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crows</a>, both members of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ravens-crows-corvid-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">corvid</a> family, are known for their high intelligence. This study specifically explored how these birds respond to food choices when another bird is present, focusing on their ability to exhibit self-control through delayed gratification.



The core of the study was a rotating tray task, where they gave the birds two food choices: a high-quality and a low-quality option. The birds had to remove these from under clear plastic cups. Mealworm served as the high-quality food for jays, and bread as the low-quality food, while crows preferred meat over the less desirable apple.



The team tested each bird individually, letting them observe as the researchers placed both food types on the rotating tray. Simultaneously, another <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rebellious-birds-use-anti-bird-spikes-to-build-their-nests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird</a>, either a competitor or a non-competitor, stayed in an adjacent compartment.



Right before the tray offered the less preferred food option, the researchers opened the door between the compartments. This allowed the second bird access. The tested bird then had the choice to either take the immediate option or wait 15 seconds for the preferred option to become available.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-delayed-gratification-and-self-control">Delayed gratification and self-control</h2>



The study found a notable behavioral pattern among Eurasian jays. While alone, each jay chose the delayed reward (mealworm) but shifted to the immediate food choice (bread) when another bird was present, be it a competitor or a non-competitor. This flexibility in their decision-making underlines the influence of social context on their behavior.



In contrast, New Caledonian <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jackdaws-reach-a-consensus-before-taking-flight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crows</a> demonstrated remarkable consistency. They demonstrated self-control by waiting for the high-quality, delayed reward (meat), regardless of whether another bird was present. This consistency was observed in all test conditions, emphasizing the crows' steadfastness in their preference.



<a href="https://www.aru.ac.uk/people/rachael-miller-harrison" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Rachael Miller</a>, Co-lead author and Senior Lecturer in Biology at Anglia Ruskin University, highlighted the significance of delayed gratification as an indicator of self-control in birds. She drew parallels between this study and similar research conducted on young children, using the rotating tray task to measure self-control.



“Interestingly, we found that jays were highly flexible in their use of delayed gratification, and this was entirely influenced by the presence of other birds, but the crows consistently chose the better, delayed reward, regardless of rival birds being present," said Miller. 



Miller pointed out the unexpected findings regarding the Eurasian jaybird's flexibility in using delayed gratification, influenced entirely by the presence of other birds. In contrast, the New Caledonian crows' consistent choice of the better, delayed reward, irrespective of rival birds, adds a new dimension to our understanding of animal behavior in social contexts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-and-conclusions">Implications and conclusions</h2>



This research sheds light on the dynamics of self-control and factors influencing delayed gratification in animals. It suggests that a species' social tolerance and competition levels play a significant role in these behaviors.



Dr. Miller expounded, “These findings add to our understanding of self-control and the factors influencing delayed gratification in animals, which may relate to a particular species’ social tolerance and levels of competition."



Particularly, the more sociable nature of New Caledonian crows, compared to the territorial Eurasian jays, might explain their differing strategies. As Dr. Miller notes, the reliance of jays on hiding food for survival could be a key reason for their altered strategy in the presence of competitors, opting for immediate, less preferred food to avoid losing out.



In summary, this study not only enhances our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/not-so-dim-witted-pigeons-have-their-own-version-of-machine-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">avian intelligence</a> but also opens up new avenues for exploring self-control mechanisms across different species in varying social settings.



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



Garrulus glandarius, commonly known as the Eurasian Jay, is a species of bird found predominantly across Europe and parts of North Asia. This bird is notable for its striking plumage, with a mix of pinkish-brown, black, white, and blue. Its size is comparable to that of a typical crow, but with a distinctive rounded tail and a slightly smaller build.



Eurasian Jays primarily inhabit woodlands, showing a preference for oak forests due to their reliance on acorns as a food source. Their diet, however, is omnivorous and varied, including insects, seeds, fruits, and occasionally small rodents or reptiles.



These birds demonstrate remarkable intelligence and self-control, a trait common in the corvid family. They are known for their ability to store food in numerous locations for later retrieval, showcasing an impressive memory. This caching behavior is crucial for their survival, especially in harsh winter conditions.



The Eurasian Jay is also famous for its vocal abilities, capable of mimicking the calls of other bird species and even human-made sounds. This skill plays a vital role in their social interactions and territorial behaviors.



In terms of reproduction, Eurasian Jays are monogamous, with pairs often forming long-term bonds. They build nests in trees, where the female typically lays between 4 to 6 eggs. Both parents participate in raising the young, which are ready to leave the nest within a few weeks.



Overall, the Eurasian Jay stands out as a resilient and adaptable species, thriving across various environments and exhibiting behaviors that reflect a high level of cognitive ability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-new-caledonian-crows">More about New Caledonian crows</h2>



Corvus moneduloides, commonly known as the New Caledonian Crow, is a remarkably intelligent bird species endemic to New Caledonia in the South Pacific. This bird is medium-sized, predominantly black, and identifiable by its straight and relatively slim bill, which distinguishes it from other crow species.



The New Caledonian Crow inhabits various habitats on the islands, including dense forests and open areas. These birds have adapted well to human-altered environments, and are well-known for their impressive self-control instinct. 



One of the most striking aspects of this crow is its advanced tool-making ability. These birds are famous for crafting and using tools, such as twigs and leaves, to extract insects and other food from hard-to-reach places. This behavior is not only rare among birds but showcases an exceptional level of problem-solving skills and cognitive complexity.



New Caledonian Crows are omnivorous, feeding on a range of insects, fruits, and small animals. Its tool use is primarily associated with foraging for larvae and insects. They are known to live in loose family groups and exhibit a range of complex social behaviors.



Reproduction in New Caledonian Crows involves nest-building, usually in trees. The female typically lays around three eggs, and both parents are involved in nurturing the young. The juvenile crows stay with the parents for extended periods, learning vital survival and tool-use skills.



In summary, the New Caledonian Crow is a species of significant interest due to its sophisticated tool-using abilities, indicating a level of intelligence and adaptability that is remarkable in the avian world.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0289197" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



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Crows exhibit more self-control than other bird species

Animals use self-control to plan and achieve long-term goals. Birds,...

After more than three and a half decades of diligent observation, researchers at <a href="https://msu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michigan State University</a> (MSU) are unraveling some of the enigmatic behaviors of a unique type of mob – those comprised of spotted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spotted-hyenas-change-their-foraging-behavior-to-adapt/">hyenas</a>.



The findings of this research, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2023.1390" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B</a>, shed light on the intricate relationships and social interactions among hyenas, which influence their decisions to join forces and confront lions cooperatively, a behavior known as mobbing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mobbing-behavior-nbsp">Mobbing behavior&nbsp;</h2>



Lead author Tracy Montgomery initiated this project during her doctoral studies under the mentorship of Kay Holekamp at MSU. Her research was bolstered by support from the Dr. Marvin Hensley Endowed Scholarship Fund in Zoology.



“Social relationships can overcome barriers to mobbing and let hyenas achieve cooperation,” Montgomery said, further adding that greetings among hyenas and the strength of their social bonds play pivotal roles in determining their likelihood to engage in mobbing behavior.



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



Spotted hyenas are intriguing social animals characterized by complex social structures similar to those found in baboons and other primates. Researchers study hyenas not only to comprehend cooperative behaviors in wildlife but also to gain insights into such behaviors in humans.



Kenna Lehmann, another lead author who was part of Holekamp’s team during her doctoral studies and is now an assistant professor at MSU, emphasizes the significance of long-term relationships built among hyenas. She notes that their interactions go beyond mere transactional arrangements. “It’s not just, ‘I’ll give you a zebra leg if you help,’” as she puts it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-characteristics-nbsp">Unique characteristics&nbsp;</h2>



Holekamp, who has dedicated 35 years to studying hyenas in Kenya, expresses her fascination with these creatures. “I went to Kenya in 1988 thinking I’d do a dissertation-length project - three or four years - with hyenas, then I'd move on to study dolphins or monkeys or some other animals.” However, the unique characteristics of hyenas kept her captivated.



For example, female spotted hyenas possess pseudo-penises, a biological anomaly that challenges conventional understanding. Although this particular aspect doesn’t directly relate to the current study, it highlights the hyenas’ propensity to defy established biological norms.&nbsp;



“Spotted hyenas appear to violate many of the basic rules of mammalian biology,” Holekamp said, thus making them intriguing subjects for scientific investigation.



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



Both Tracy Montgomery and Kenna Lehmann, under the guidance of Kay Holekamp, became intrigued by the rules governing hyenas’ behavior when mobbing lions. They sought to understand why hyenas engage in this risky behavior and what motivates them.&nbsp;



Notably, their research revealed that lions were responsible for the deaths of hyenas in over 25 percent of cases where the cause of death could be ascertained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tangible-benefits-of-mobbing-nbsp">Tangible benefits of mobbing&nbsp;</h2>



Lions and hyenas often share territories, prompting Lehmann and Montgomery to initially examine mobbing behavior through the lens of its tangible benefits, such as protecting food resources from lions.&nbsp;



In a previous report in 2017, the team demonstrated that mobbing was not limited to scenarios with immediate benefits but also occurred without any apparent advantages.



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



In their recent study, the researchers delved deeper into mobbing behavior to explore other underlying motivations. During this exploration, they discovered that mobbing was more prevalent when the risk of harm or death to hyenas was lower, even in situations devoid of immediate benefits.&nbsp;



For instance, hyenas were more likely to engage in mobbing when there were no male lions present, as male lions are larger and more hazardous to hyenas. Conversely, among spotted hyenas, where females are larger than males, females were more inclined to participate in mobbing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meticulous-observation-nbsp">Meticulous observation&nbsp;</h2>



However, the most noteworthy aspect of mobbing behavior was its social dimension, a discovery made possible by the meticulous observation of hyenas spanning several generations within the same habitat over 35 years.&nbsp;



Throughout this extended period, the research team maintained a continuous presence at their research camp in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, with multiple collaborators contributing to the project.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-commitment-nbsp">Long-term commitment&nbsp;</h2>



The significance of the long-term commitment to this research became evident as mobbing events are relatively infrequent. Over the course of three decades, the team witnessed approximately 1,000 interactions involving hyenas and lions, with only a fraction of those interactions providing the comprehensive data required for detailed analysis.&nbsp;



These interactions are typically fast-paced, involve numerous hyenas and lions, and are characterized by rapid movement, making precise data recording a significant challenge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuable-data">Valuable data</h2>



Out of the roughly 1,000 interactions observed, only 325 yielded sufficiently robust data for Montgomery and Lehmann to conduct their analyses and make their discoveries. They credit the dedication and efforts of students, research assistants, and other collaborators over the past 30 years for their ability to standardize and organize field observations into usable datasets.



The researchers continue to explore the wealth of insights that these datasets may hold. “Finding these results was really exciting, but I feel like the fun part of science is you answer a question and you immediately have 50 more. There are so many more things that we need to do with this data,” Montgomery concluded.



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"Friendly" hyenas more likely to engage in mobbing behavior

After more than three and a half decades of diligent...

Funny,Mouse,And,Its,Reflection,In,Mirror

Researchers have made significant strides in understanding self-recognition in animals, specifically in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-genetic-diversity-of-the-wild-house-mouse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mice</a>, with the help of the mirror test. This research opens new avenues in neurobehavioral studies while also providing insights into the neural mechanisms behind self-recognition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mice-and-the-mirror-test">Mice and the mirror test</h2>



The researchers conducted a mirror test to determine if mice could recognize changes in their appearance, specifically a dollop of ink on their foreheads. To assess the role of tactile stimulus, they applied both black and white ink on the black-furred mice. 



While the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-new-evidence-that-dogs-have-self-awareness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mirror test</a> traditionally aims to evaluate consciousness across species, the researchers clarify that their findings only demonstrate the mice's ability to perceive changes in their appearance, not necessarily indicating self-awareness.



The results showed that mice indeed noticed changes in their appearance, but certain conditions were necessary. Mice accustomed to mirrors dedicated more time to grooming their heads in front of the mirror if they had large white ink marks (0.6 cm2 or 2 cm2) on them. 



Conversely, they did not increase head grooming for small marks (0.2 cm2) or black ink, matching their fur color. Additionally, mice not previously exposed to mirrors did not show increased grooming behavior in these tests, regardless of the ink's color or size.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neural-mechanisms-of-self-recognition">Neural mechanisms of self-recognition</h2>



The team pinpointed a subset of neurons in the hippocampus responsible for developing and storing this visual self-image. Senior author Takashi Kitamura from the <a href="https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center</a> emphasized the novelty of this discovery, as the encoding of self-information in the brain has been largely unexplored.



“To form episodic memory, for example, of events in our daily life, brains form and store information about where, what, when, and who, and the most important component is self-information or status,” says Kitamura. “Researchers usually examine how the brain encodes or recognizes others, but the self-information aspect is unclear.”



Further investigation through gene expression mapping revealed that when these hippocampal neurons were deactivated, the mice ceased to exhibit the grooming behavior in response to their mirror image. These neurons also responded when the mice observed other mice of the same strain, indicating a link between self-recognition and social familiarity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mice-and-self-recognition">Mice and self-recognition</h2>



The study also underscored the importance of social experience in developing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/roosters-can-recognize-themselves-in-the-mirror-demonstrating-self-awareness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">self-recognition</a> capabilities. Mice that were socially isolated or raised with mice of a different fur color did not show increased grooming behavior in response to the mirror test. This finding aligns with previous research on chimpanzees, suggesting a universal aspect of social experience in self-recognition across species.



The research team, including first author Jun Yokose, is planning to delve deeper into the roles of visual and tactile stimuli in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-can-recognize-themselves-in-the-mirror/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">self-recognition</a>. They aim to discern whether mice can recognize changes in their reflection without a tactile stimulus, potentially using technology similar to social media filters.



“The mice required significant external sensory cues to pass the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/penguins-may-have-a-degree-of-self-awareness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mirror test</a> -- we have to put a lot of ink on their heads, and then the tactile stimulus coming from the ink somehow enables the animal to detect the ink on their heads via a mirror reflection,” says Yokose. “Chimps and humans don't need any of that extra sensory stimulus.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-mice-and-mirrors">Implications of mice and mirrors</h2>



The mouse model established in this study offers a unique opportunity to manipulate and monitor neural activity. This will enable a more thorough investigation of the neural circuit mechanisms behind self-recognition-like behavior in mice.



“Now that we have this mouse model, we can manipulate or monitor neural activity to comprehensively investigate the neural circuit mechanisms behind how self-recognition-like behavior is induced in mice,” says Yokose.



In summary, this research represents a significant milestone in understanding the neural basis of self-recognition. It not only sheds light on the cognitive abilities of mice but also provides a valuable model for exploring complex neural processes in higher mammals, including humans. As the study progresses, it could unravel many mysteries of the brain related to self-awareness and consciousness.



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



As discussed above, mice demonstrate a remarkable level of intelligence, often surprising researchers with their cognitive abilities. These small rodents possess a keen ability to learn and adapt to new environments, making them invaluable in scientific research.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-and-problem-solving-skills">Learning and problem-solving skills</h3>



Mice excel in learning tasks, especially those involving mazes and spatial navigation. They quickly memorize routes and can find efficient paths to reach food or avoid perceived threats. This skill indicates not just memory strength but also spatial awareness and problem-solving capabilities.



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



Mice exhibit complex social behaviors. They communicate through high-pitched sounds, some of which are inaudible to humans, and use scent marking to convey information. 



Mice recognize and bond with their kin, showing preferences for social interaction with familiar mice over strangers. This social intelligence is critical for their survival in the wild, as it aids in forming social hierarchies and cooperative networks.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptability">Adaptability</h3>



Mice are highly adaptable creatures. They thrive in a wide range of environments, from urban areas to rural fields. This adaptability extends to their learning; they can adjust their strategies based on changes in their environment, showcasing flexibility in their cognitive processes.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-use-in-research">Use in research</h3>



Scientists frequently use mice in research due to their intelligence and physiological similarities to humans. Mice are capable of performing complex tasks, making them suitable for studies in genetics, neuroscience, and psychology. Their ability to learn and adapt makes them ideal subjects for experiments involving memory, learning, and behavior.



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



Mice are not just mechanically reacting to stimuli; they exhibit signs of emotional intelligence. They show fear, pleasure, and stress responses, and can even empathize with other mice. Studies have shown that mice are affected by the emotional state of their peers, indicating a level of emotional awareness.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-disease-and-brain-function">Understanding disease and brain function</h3>



Mice's cognitive abilities make them particularly useful in studying human diseases, especially those affecting the brain. By observing how mice learn, remember, and interact, researchers gain insights into the workings of the human brain, including the development of neurological diseases.



In summary, mice are intelligent creatures with sophisticated learning abilities, social structures, and emotional capacities. Their intelligence, coupled with their physiological resemblance to humans, makes them invaluable in scientific research, particularly in understanding the human brain and behavior. By passing the mirror test, mice may even prove to be self-aware, cognizant beings.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/neuron/fulltext/S0896-6273(23)00803-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neuron</a>.



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Mice pass the mirror test. Does that mean they are self-aware?

Researchers have made significant strides in understanding self-recognition in animals,...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



-----



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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







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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

<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;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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