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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Frogs settle for average mates when dating gets too noisy

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

<p>In the waters off the Florida Keys, biologist Lori Schweikert stumbled upon an astonishing revelation about a well-known <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/leaving-big-fish-in-the-ocean-greatly-reduces-co2-emissions/">fish</a> species. On a fishing excursion, Schweikert observed the peculiar behavior of a hogfish that she had caught.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The fish, known for its uncanny ability to shift its skin color rapidly, adapted to both the shade and pattern of the boat deck, even after its demise.</p>



<h2 id="h-skin-vision">Skin vision&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Though renowned for its chameleon-like abilities, shifting between white, mottled, and reddish-brown to merge seamlessly with the corals, sands, and rocks of its surroundings, this particular observation piqued Schweikert's curiosity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Schweikert wondered if hogfish can detect light using only their skin, independently of their eyes and brain. “That opened up this whole field for me.”</p>



<p>To investigate, Schweikert took up the research on "skin vision" during her postdoctoral tenure at <a href="https://duke.edu/">Duke University</a> and Florida International University.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-unique-genes">Unique genes</h2>



<p>In collaboration with Duke biologist Sönke Johnsen in 2018, she discovered that the hogfish possess a unique gene responsible for a light-sensitive protein, opsin, which gets activated within their skin. Interestingly, this opsin gene was distinct from the ones present in their eyes.</p>



<p>This discovery is not entirely isolated. Animals ranging from octopuses to geckos have been found to possess light-sensing opsins in their skin. But the purpose behind this phenomenon remains elusive.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-are-the-fish-viewing-themselves">Are the fish viewing themselves?</h2>



<p>Reflecting on the hogfish finding, Schweikert recalled her conversation with Johnsen: “When we found it in hogfish, I looked at Sönke and said: Why have a light detector in the skin?”&nbsp;</p>



<p>While one prevailing theory suggests light-sensitive skin aids animals in better understanding their environment, Schweikert proposes a fascinating alternative. She believes that they might be utilizing this mechanism “to view themselves.”</p>



<p>In a study that is now published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-40166-4"><em>Nature Communications</em></a><em>, </em>Schweikert, Johnsen, and their colleagues closely examined hogfish skin.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-learned">What the researchers learned&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The team discovered that under microscopic scrutiny, the hogfish skin resembled a pointillist artwork, each dot a specialized pigment-filled cell called a chromatophore. The chromatic shifts are governed by the movement of these granules within the cells.</p>



<p>Utilizing a technique known as immunolabeling, the team pinpointed the location of opsin proteins, finding them not in the chromatophores, but in an adjacent layer below.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Furthermore, electron microscope imagery revealed an unknown cell type beneath the chromatophores that was loaded with opsin protein.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Schweikert explained the process: “Light striking the skin must pass through the pigment-filled chromatophores first before it reaches the light-sensitive layer.”</p>



<h2 id="h-internal-photographs">Internal photographs</h2>



<p>Given that the opsins in hogfish skin are most responsive to blue light – coincidentally the same light wavelength absorbed best by the chromatophores – it's plausible that these light-sensitive opsins function like an internal photographic film, capturing shifts in light that permeates the pigment cells above.</p>



<p>“The animals can literally take a photo of their own skin from the inside,” said Johnsen. However, Schweikert noted, “Just to be clear, we're not arguing that hogfish skin functions like an eye.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>Schweikert emphasizes that while eyes form images, there's no evidence suggesting similar capabilities in their skin. Instead, it's a mechanism allowing the hogfish to monitor its own skin, adjusting its colors based on what it perceives with its eyes. "They appear to be watching their own color change,” said Schweikert.</p>



<h2 id="h-study-implications">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



<p>According to the researchers, their work is important because it could pave the way to new sensory feedback techniques for devices such as robotic limbs and self-driving cars that must fine-tune their performance without relying solely on eyesight or camera feeds.</p>



<p>“Sensory feedback is one of the tricks that technology is still trying to figure out,” said Johnsen. “This study is a nice dissection of a new sensory feedback system.”</p>



<p>“If you didn't have a mirror, and you couldn't bend your neck, how would you know if you're dressed appropriately?” Schweikert said. “For us it may not matter,” but for creatures that use their color-changing abilities to hide from predators, warn rivals or woo mates, “it could be life or death.”</p>



<p>The study was co-authored by researchers from the Florida Institute of Technology, Florida International University, and the Air Force Research Laboratory.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Financial support came from Duke University, Florida International University, the Marine Biological Laboratory and the National Science Foundation.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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The fish that sees with its skin: Hogfish can watch their own color changes

In the waters off the Florida Keys, biologist Lori Schweikert...

<p>In the heart of Melbourne, a small green oasis stands as a testament to the potential power of urban greening. A recent study from the <a href="https://www.unimelb.edu.au/">University of Melbourne</a> has demonstrated the profound impact small urban greening projects can have on city ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By focusing on enhancing the diversity of indigenous plants, the researchers observed a staggering sevenfold increase in insect species in just three short years.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



<p>The central theme of the study, conducted in a greenspace within Melbourne, revolved around the relationship between plant diversity and insect biodiversity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The results revealed that enhancing the variety and complexity of plant communities significant boosted insect biodiversity, leading to more frequent interactions between plants and insects.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Such findings bolster the increasingly recognized idea that integrating nature into urban environments is not only good for human well-being, but also plays a vital role in enhancing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-solutions-for-the-climate-and-biodiversity-crisis/">biodiversity</a> and combating the repercussions of climate change.</p>



<p>“Our findings provide crucial evidence that supports best practice in greenspace design and contributes to re-invigorate policies aimed at mitigating the negative impacts of urbanization on people and other species," said study lead author Dr. Luis Mata.</p>



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



<p>Initially, the site chosen for the study consisted of merely a grass lawn and a couple of trees. However, in a month's time, weeds were removed, new topsoil was added, the soil was fertilized, and it was layered with organic mulch. The team also introduced 12 indigenous plant species.</p>



<p>Over four years, the researchers conducted 14 meticulous insect surveys, using entomological nets to gather samples from each plant species.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-discovered">What the researchers discovered&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Ultimately, a total of 94 insect species were identified, with an impressive 91 of them being native to Victoria, Australia.</p>



<p>“Most importantly, the indigenous insect species we documented spanned a diverse array of functional groups: detritivores that recycle nutrients; herbivores that provide food for reptiles and birds; predators and parasitoids that keep pest species in check," said Dr. Mata.</p>



<p>Remarkably, within just a year, the 12 plant species introduced at the study's outset supported an estimated 4.9 times more insect species than the initial two species that pre-existed in the greenspace.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By the third year, despite a decrease in plant species to nine, they still supported a whopping 7.3 times more insect species than the original greenspace occupants.</p>



<h2 id="h-study-implications">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The broader implications of this study are clear and far-reaching. The adaptable methodology used by the Melbourne team can be replicated in diverse settings and climates, making it a valuable resource for scientists and urban planners around the globe.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“I’d love to see many more urban greenspaces transformed into habitats for indigenous species. We hope that our study will serve as a catalyst for a new way to demonstrate how urban greening may effect positive ecological changes," said Dr. Mata.</p>



<p>The research is published in the British Ecological Society journal, <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/2688-8319.12259"><em>Ecological Solutions and Evidence</em></a>.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-urban-greening">More about urban greening</h2>



<p>Urban greening, an ever-growing trend in contemporary urban design and planning, refers to the introduction or enhancement of vegetation in city settings. It encompasses a broad range of initiatives, from the development of large public parks to the establishment of small community gardens, rooftop green spaces, and even vertical gardens on building facades.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 id="h-importance-of-urban-greening">Importance of urban greening</h3>



<h4 id="h-biodiversity">Biodiversity</h4>



<p>As the study from the University of Melbourne highlighted, urban greening can significantly boost local biodiversity, providing habitats for various species of plants, insects, birds, and other animals.</p>



<h4 id="h-climate-change-mitigation">Climate change mitigation</h4>



<p>Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, making urban greening an essential tool in mitigating the effects of climate change. Moreover, vegetation can cool cities through shade and evapotranspiration, reducing the urban heat island effect.</p>



<h4 id="h-psychological-and-health-benefits">Psychological and health benefits</h4>



<p>Green spaces in cities offer residents places to relax, exercise, and connect with nature. Research has shown that exposure to nature can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood.</p>



<h3 id="h-benefits-of-urban-greening">Benefits of urban greening</h3>



<h4 id="h-air-quality">Air quality</h4>



<p>Plants act as natural air purifiers, absorbing pollutants like sulfur dioxide, ammonia, and certain particulate matter, thereby improving urban air quality.</p>



<h4 id="h-water-management">Water management</h4>



<p>Green spaces can absorb rainwater, reducing the risk of urban flooding and filtering pollutants before they enter waterways.</p>



<h4 id="h-economic-value">Economic value</h4>



<p>Urban green spaces can increase property values, attract tourism, and reduce energy costs by providing shade and insulation.</p>



<h4 id="h-social-cohesion">Social cohesion</h4>



<p>Community gardens and parks often act as communal areas where residents can meet, collaborate, and build stronger neighborhood bonds.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Small greening projects can dramatically boost urban biodiversity

In the heart of Melbourne, a small green oasis stands...

<p>In the age-old debate of cats versus dogs, it seems there may be some scientific basis to the idea that dogs have better communication skills.&nbsp;</p>



<p>New research reveals that, according to pet owners, dogs display a broader range of emotions than cats.</p>



<h2 id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



<p>The study was focused on a comprehensive survey of 438 pet owners.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The participants were asked to discern whether their pets showcased any of 22 listed emotions, ranging from obvious feelings such as joy and sadness to more nuanced emotions like frustration and disappointment.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-learned">What the researchers learned&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The results showed that, on average, dog owners believed they identified emotions in their pets 65 percent of the time, while cat owners trailed slightly behind at 58 percent.</p>



<p>Dogs, it appears, have a unique propensity for revealing subtle emotions, particularly feelings of empathy and guilt.&nbsp;</p>



<p>But while cats may be labeled as the more enigmatic creatures, they hold a special prowess in manifesting one distinct emotion: anger.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A whopping 85 percent of cat owners had witnessed their cats display anger, while only 60 percent of dog owners had observed anger in their pets.</p>



<h2 id="h-what-makes-the-difference">What makes the difference?</h2>



<p>But what accounts for this perceived emotional disparity between cats and dogs? The study authors provide an intriguing hypothesis.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Historically, dogs have been closely aligned with human activities, from hunting to herding. Their consistent interactions with humans may have sharpened their emotional expressiveness.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-subtle-signs-from-cats">Subtle signs from cats</h2>



<p>On the flip side, the nature of "semi-solitary" cats might have allowed them to maintain a semblance of emotional inscrutability. Furthermore, the lesser frequency at which cats maintain eye contact or gaze at their owners may add to the perception of them being harder to decipher.</p>



<p>Professor Daniel Mills from the <a href="https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/">University of Lincoln</a>, a co-author of the study, weighed in on this fascinating dynamic. "When cats turn on their owners and scratch them, it can be because owners miss subtle signs suggesting it is time to stop touching or petting them."</p>



<p>"So it’s important to understand our pets, but these results suggest we may not be as in tune with cats as we are with dogs. This could be because dogs may have been bred to have more expressive faces than cats."</p>



<p>"But unfortunately we still don’t know whether cats and dogs genuinely show different emotions, or whether people project more emotions onto dogs than cats, because we often work more closely with dogs so need better communication."</p>



<h2 id="h-discernible-emotions">Discernible emotions&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The research, now published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/journal/animals"><em>Animals</em></a>, was meticulous in its approach. The participants had lived with their pets for a minimum of two years.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Apart from the six primary emotions of anger, disgust, fear, joy, sadness, and surprise, participants were also quizzed on 16 lesser discernible emotions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The survey data indicated that feelings like anxiety, boredom, confusion, and even positive anticipation were more frequently recognized in dogs.</p>



<p>However, there are some inherent biases that might be present. For instance, among the 68 study participants who owned both cats and dogs, not a single one believed their cat had ever displayed guilt, even though about a third recognized this emotion in their dogs.</p>



<h2 id="h-perceiving-love-and-affection">Perceiving love and affection</h2>



<p>Previous research has shown that cat owners are lrss likely to see their pet as a member of the family compared to dog owners, which would indicate that cat-owner pairs have less of a bond.</p>



<p>However, a surprising revelation from the study was that even when cat owners held their pets in slightly less familial regard than dog owners, there was no significant difference between both sets of owners in terms of perceiving love and affection from their pets.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-interpreting-pet-emotions">More about interpreting pet emotions</h2>



<p>Reading pet emotions is a fascinating intersection of animal behavior, psychology, and the human-animal bond.</p>



<p>With domestic animals like dogs and cats playing such integral roles in many households, understanding their emotions has become more than just a curiosity – it's a pathway to forging deeper and more compassionate connections.</p>



<h3 id="h-dogs">Dogs</h3>



<p>Dogs have long been known for their capacity to communicate with humans through various channels, including body language, vocalizations, and facial expressions. A wagging tail, whimpering, or the soulful gaze of "puppy eyes" can all convey emotions ranging from happiness and anticipation to sadness and anxiety.</p>



<p>Some studies even suggest that dogs may have developed facial muscles specifically to communicate with humans. Researchers have discovered that dogs can understand and respond to human emotions, showing empathy and even adjusting their behavior based on the emotional state of their owners.</p>



<h4 id="h-specific-behaviors">Specific behaviors&nbsp;</h4>



<h5 id="h-tail-wagging">Tail wagging</h5>



<p>A wagging tail often signals happiness, but the direction and type of wag can be significant. For instance, a wag to the right might indicate positive feelings, while a wag to the left might signal negative ones.</p>



<h5 id="h-vocalizations">Vocalizations</h5>



<p>Growling usually signifies discomfort or threat, while whining can indicate anxiety or a desire for attention.</p>



<h5 id="h-ears-and-eyes">Ears and eyes</h5>



<p>Forward-pointing ears show interest, while flattened ears can mean fear. Dilated pupils might indicate arousal or stress.</p>



<h3 id="h-cats">Cats</h3>



<p>Cats are often seen as more mysterious and challenging to read. Their expressions of emotion can be subtle and may require more attentive observation. While dogs have been bred for generations to work closely with humans, cats have remained relatively more solitary, leading to different communication patterns.</p>



<p>For example, a cat's purring may signal contentment, but it could also be a sign of discomfort or pain. A slow blink from a cat often conveys trust and affection.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The range of emotions that cats exhibit may not be as immediately accessible or recognizable to many owners. Understanding a cat's emotions may require careful observation of their behavior, body posture, and vocalizations.</p>



<h4 id="h-specific-behaviors-1">Specific behaviors&nbsp;</h4>



<h5 id="h-purring">Purring</h5>



<p>While generally linked to contentment, cats might also purr when in pain or distress.</p>



<h5 id="h-kneading">Kneading</h5>



<p>This is a comfort behavior originating from kittenhood when they knead their mother's belly for milk.</p>



<h5 id="h-tail-movements">Tail movements</h5>



<p>A lashing tail can indicate irritation, while a raised tail often means a cat is content and confident.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Dogs are better than cats at expressing emotions - except for anger

In the age-old debate of cats versus dogs, it seems...

<p>In the vast expanse of the world's oceans, the largest fish - the whale shark - is facing challenges that extend far beyond what the eye can see.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While the threats of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lynx-habitat-selection-is-heavily-influenced-by-human-disturbance/">habitat</a> loss and human activities such as fishing and shipping are well understood, a new study unveils a less explored dimension of marine conservation - the microbial health of the whale shark.</p>



<p>Researchers at <a href="https://www.flinders.edu.au/">Flinders University</a> in South Australia, along with a collaboration of 12 international institutions, have made major progress in understanding the role of diverse microbial communities that reside on the skin and tissue of these endangered sharks.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-new-marine-microbes-discovered">New marine microbes discovered</h2>



<p>The study describes new marine microbes for the first time, marking an essential step toward understanding this crucial aspect of the marine ecosystem.</p>



<p>Dr. Michael Doane, a researcher from the Flinders Accelerator for Microbiome Exploration (FAME) group, said the research is the most extensive microbiome study to date of a wild marine animal of this physical size.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-a-balanced-network">A balanced network&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“While microbial species differ across the world, they work together to form a balanced network that contributes to the health of the sharks," said Dr. Doane.</p>



<p>“It is important to measure and analyse the distinct and diverse epidermal microbiome of the global whale shark populations to work towards understanding how the microbes affect the wellbeing and survival of this amazing animal."</p>



<p>“The characteristics of a balanced microbial community are not well described for any species, but especially for sharks, which form a vital link in ocean foodchains and ecosystems."</p>



<h2 id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



<p>The study involved 74 whale sharks in the three major ocean basins, and will form a baseline for future analysis and highlight how microbial species differ around the world.</p>



<p>By using cutting-edge genomic sequencing technology, the scientists were able to collect microbial samples from five renowned diving sites, including Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia, Oslob in the Philippines, Mafia Island in Tanzania, and La Paz and Cancún in Mexico.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-complex-interplay">Complex interplay&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The delicate balance of microbial communities on the skin surface is not well understood, particularly in sharks. This balance is pivotal for the health and survival of the whale shark, a key player in ocean food chains and ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The findings reveal a complex interplay between microbes and their host, the whale shark.</p>



<p>“The microbes form a complex network pattern on the skin surface, which is consistent across sharks from each location, revealing characteristics of what comprises a balanced or unbalanced microbiome," explained Dr. Doane.</p>



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-discovered">What the researchers discovered&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Using mathematical modeling, the team explored the interactions between the microbes to comprehend how they form a network or community.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Remarkably, the experts identified 34 new species of microbes, with the highest number of novel microbial species found in the whale sharks from Ningaloo.</p>



<h2 id="h-striking-the-right-balance">Striking the right balance</h2>



<p>Flinders University Professor Elizabeth Dinsdale is a co-author of the study published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-39184-5"><em>Scientific Reports</em></a>. She noted that the right balance of microbes are critical to the well-being and survival of the host with which they live.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>“In humans, for example, skin microbes are always present, and when these communities are ‘healthy,’ they go unnoticed; however, when they are unbalanced, they cause skin conditions such as dermatitis, or skin infections,” said Professor Dinsdale.</p>



<p>“As microbes are too small to see, it is important to gain an understanding of how these complex network patterns fit together for a healthy microbiome balance. Unbalanced interactions can lead to a loss of benefits for the host and can result in disease."</p>



<h2 id="h-study-implications">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“We now have a baseline for the healthy microbiome of whale sharks, which can be used to monitor the health of the whale shark and we also developed a non-invasive method to identify the effectiveness of conservation strategies.”</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-whale-sharks">More about whale sharks</h2>



<p>Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) are fascinating creatures that can grow up to 40 feet long, while most average around 18 to 32.8 feet.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 id="h-appearance">Appearance&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The whale shark has a distinctive appearance, with a broad, flat head, two small eyes at the front of its head, and a pattern of white spots and stripes over a dark blue or brownish back.</p>



<h3 id="h-diet">Diet</h3>



<p>Despite their massive size, whale sharks primarily eat plankton, including krill, copepods, and small fish. They are filter feeders, swimming with their mouths open to collect food in their gill rakers.</p>



<h3 id="h-distribution">Distribution</h3>



<p>Whale sharks can be found in warm oceans around the world. They are known to migrate thousands of miles to find food and to reproduce. Notable places where they are frequently observed include the coasts of Australia, Belize, the Maldives, Mexico, and the Philippines.</p>



<h3 id="h-reproduction">Reproduction</h3>



<p>Whale sharks are ovoviviparous, which means they give birth to live young. A female can give birth to several dozen to over 300 pups in one litter. Pups are around 16 to 24 inches (40 to 60 cm) long at birth. They have a long lifespan, living up to 70 years or possibly even more.</p>



<p>In an era where marine conservation is paramount, the intricate relationship between the whale shark and its microbiome presents a fresh perspective. The Flinders study not only unlocks a new dimension in the understanding of these magnificent creatures but also underscores the interdependence of life within our oceans.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Microbial mystery: The invisible network protecting the whale shark

In the vast expanse of the world's oceans, the largest...

<p>Researchers have discovered that as city heat intensifies, bird diversity dwindles. The revelation comes from an expansive study that spanned 336 cities in China, which was conducted by scientists at Zhejiang University and the <a href="https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/">Cornell Lab of Ornithology</a>.</p>



<p>The findings, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166200"><em>Science of the Total Environment</em></a>, reveal a direct link between urban heat, particularly from heat-retaining buildings and paved surfaces, and declining bird diversity.</p>



<h2 id="h-urban-heat-islands">Urban heat islands&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"The heat-retention characteristic of cities is a well-known phenomenon called the urban heat island effect," said Frank La Sorte from the Cornell Lab. "Our findings document, for the first time, the direct relationship between bird diversity and the urban heat island effect across multiple seasons."&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The heat island effect is not unique to Chinese cities and it is likely that the patterns documented in this study are occurring in other large cities across the globe that have abundant asphalt, steel, and concrete with little green vegetation."</p>



<h2 id="h-moving-to-cooler-areas">Moving to cooler areas&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study authors said <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-birds-dream-of-flying-scientists-say-they-now-know-the-answer/">birds</a> move to cooler suburban areas, decreasing diversity in the city during the breeding and nonbreeding seasons, but the trend is especially strong during the nonbreeding season.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Interestingly, the size or location of the city doesn’t seem to make a difference - the decline in bird species diversity remains consistent.</p>



<p>The researchers utilized data from an ongoing study on bird diversity in China. They gauged the surface urban heat island intensity of each city in relation to its suburban surroundings.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-unexpected-diversity-loss">Unexpected diversity loss</h2>



<p>"What we did not expect was that diversity loss was even more pronounced during the nonbreeding season," said study senior author Jiayu Wu from Zhejiang University.</p>



<p>"We predicted that the urban heat island effect would relax the costs of staying warm during the winter, making it less necessary for birds to migrate and resulting in an increase in species diversity during the nonbreeding season, especially in colder cities.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-some-birds-have-a-higher-heat-tolerance">Some birds have a higher heat tolerance</h2>



<p>Yet, contrary to their predictions, the effect of urban heat on bird diversity showed a consistent negative trend during both seasons in most regions of China.</p>



<p>However, in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau region, birds seem to be bucking the trend. Here, the urban heat island effect positively correlates with bird species numbers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The scientists suggest that birds native to this region might have developed adaptations to its alpine conditions, which could have heightened their tolerance to extreme temperatures. This resilience might be what allows them to flourish amidst the heat of the urban landscapes in the plateau.</p>



<h2 id="h-study-implications">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The implications of this study are profound, especially as we grapple with the escalating challenges of climate change. Birds, already struggling with other challenges like pollution and shrinking habitats, will face even more dire circumstances as temperatures continue to rise.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While introducing more vegetation in cities can alleviate some of the heat, it has not proven sufficient in significantly altering the adverse impacts of urban heat islands in China.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A key area of further exploration would be to determine the exact amount of greenery required to make cities hospitable, not just for the avian world but for humans as well.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-declining-bird-populations">More about declining bird populations&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The decline in bird populations is an issue that reaches beyond the borders of China and has profound ecological, cultural, and aesthetic implications.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Birds play an essential role in various ecosystems, acting as pollinators, seed dispersers, and indicators of environmental health. The observed decline in bird diversity and populations due to the urban heat island effect is just one piece of a larger, more concerning puzzle.</p>



<h3 id="h-global-decline">Global decline</h3>



<p>Bird populations are dwindling globally, and not just in urban areas. A 2019 report revealed that North America had lost nearly 3 billion birds since 1970, a decrease of almost 30%.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Similar trends have been observed in Europe and other parts of the world. Various factors contribute to this decline, ranging from habitat loss and fragmentation, climate change, pollution, to the introduction of invasive species and diseases.</p>



<h3 id="h-habitat-loss-and-fragmentation">Habitat loss and fragmentation</h3>



<p>Rapid urbanization and deforestation lead to the loss and fragmentation of bird habitats. This disrupts breeding patterns and food availability, forcing many species to relocate, often with detrimental effects on their numbers.</p>



<h3 id="h-climate-change">Climate change</h3>



<p>Changes in weather patterns and temperatures can disrupt migratory patterns, breeding seasons, and food availability. The urban heat island effect, as noted in the Cornell study, is a localized example of how these temperature changes can directly impact bird diversity.</p>



<h3 id="h-pollution">Pollution</h3>



<p>Pesticides, heavy metals, and other pollutants can have lethal effects on birds. For example, certain pesticides are known to be highly toxic to birds, leading to immediate deaths or long-term reproductive issues.</p>



<h3 id="h-invasive-species">Invasive species</h3>



<p>The introduction of non-native species can disrupt local ecosystems, leading to increased competition for food and nesting sites. This can drive native bird species to extinction in localized areas.</p>



<h3 id="h-human-intervention">Human intervention</h3>



<p>Direct human actions like hunting and building wind turbines without proper consideration for bird flight paths can also have detrimental effects on bird populations.</p>



<h3 id="h-conservation-efforts">Conservation efforts</h3>



<p>Recognizing the decline in bird populations, conservationists are working to preserve and restore habitats, implement legal protections, and conduct ongoing research to understand the underlying causes better. Public education campaigns are also underway to involve local communities in bird conservation efforts.</p>



<h3 id="h-conclusion">Conclusion</h3>



<p>The declining bird populations across the globe are a complex issue with multiple causes. The recent study on the urban heat island effect in China adds to our understanding of this decline but also highlights the complexity of the issue. Coordinated global efforts are required to halt and reverse this decline.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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

As urban heat continues to rise, birds are moving away

Researchers have discovered that as city heat intensifies, bird diversity...

<p>Although <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reefs-in-some-parts-of-the-world-actually-benefit-from-warming-el-nino-events/">coral reefs</a> are home to remarkable levels of biodiversity, they currently face unprecedented declines due to marine heatwaves and subsequent mass coral bleaching and mortality events. Thus, to survive climate change, coral communities need to adapt to progressively more intense and frequent heatwaves.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Yet, the rate at which the thermal tolerance of coral reefs can increase naturally and whether it can match the rapid pace of ocean warming has remain largely unknown.</p>



<h2 id="h-some-corals-have-increased-their-heat-tolerance">Some corals have increased their heat tolerance</h2>



<p>By investigating historic mass bleaching events, a team of researchers led by <a href="https://www.ncl.ac.uk/">Newcastle University</a> has found that coral reefs in Palau, an island nation located in a remote part of the Pacific Ocean, have increased their thermal tolerance and adjusted to higher ocean temperatures.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This could reduce future bleaching impacts of climate change, but only if global carbon emissions are cut down.</p>



<h2 id="h-future-trajectories">Future trajectories&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Drawing on decades of field observations, the experts modeled a variety of possible future coral bleaching trajectories for Palauan reefs, each with a different simulated rate of thermal tolerance enhancement.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The investigation revealed that if thermal tolerance continues to increase during this century, major reductions in bleaching impacts are possible. However, the severity of future coral bleaching depends on carbon emissions reductions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For instance, high-frequency bleaching can be fully mitigated for some reefs under low-to-middle emissions scenarios that would fulfill the Paris Agreement. If the emissions remain higher though, such bleaching impacts are unfortunately unavoidable.</p>



<p>The scientists tested different levels of global action to mitigate climate change and reduce carbon emissions, by taking into account four emissions scenarios and their impact on future coral bleaching projections.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-natural-resilience">Natural resilience&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The analysis showed that the thermal tolerance of corals in Palau has increased at a rate of 0.1 degrees Celsius per decade since the late 1980s, suggesting that natural mechanisms – such as genetic adaptation or acclimatization of corals and their symbiotic microalgae – may have contributed to the enhancement of thermal tolerance.</p>



<p>“Our study indicates the presence of an ecological resilience to climate change, yet also highlights the need to fulfil Paris Agreement commitments to effectively preserve coral reefs,” said lead author Liam Lachs, a marine scientist at Newcastle.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We quantified a natural increase in coral thermal tolerance over decadal time scales which can be directly compared to the rate of ocean warming. While our work offers a glimmer of hope, it also emphasizes the need for continued action on reducing carbon emissions to mitigate climate change and secure a future for these vital ecosystems.”</p>



<h2 id="h-climate-action-is-still-needed">Climate action is still needed</h2>



<p>“We know that coral reefs can increase their overall thermal tolerance over time by acclimatization, genetic adaptation or shifts in community structure, however we know very little about the rates at which this is occurring,” added co-author James Guest, a research fellow in Coral Reef Ecology at the same university.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This study uses data from a remote Pacific coral reef system and estimates the rate of increase in tolerance since the late 1980s. The results provide some hope that reefs can keep up with increasing temperatures, but only if strong action is taken on climate change.”</p>



<p>Yet, as co-author Simon Donner – an expert in Climate and Coastal Ecosystems at the <a href="https://www.ubc.ca/">University of British Columbia</a> – argued, this resilience can also come at a cost, in terms of reduced reef diversity and growth.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Without sharp cuts in greenhouse gas emissions over the next two to three decades, the reefs in the Pacific won’t provide the resources and protection from waves that Pacific peoples have depended upon for centuries,” he concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-40601-6"><em>Nature Communications</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-pacific-coral-reefs">More about Pacific coral reefs</h2>



<p>Pacific coral reefs are among the most diverse and complex marine ecosystems in the world.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 id="h-location">Location</h3>



<p>They are predominantly found in the Pacific Ocean, stretching from the eastern coasts of Australia to the islands of Polynesia, and from the Philippines down to the Solomon Islands.</p>



<h3 id="h-biodiversity">Biodiversity</h3>



<p>The Pacific reefs are home to thousands of marine species, from small colorful fishes like clownfish and damselfish to larger creatures like sharks and rays.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Coral reefs, in general, are believed to support 25% of all marine life, despite covering less than 0.1% of the ocean's floor.</p>



<h3 id="h-coral-bleaching">Coral bleaching</h3>



<p>Like other coral reefs globally, Pacific coral reefs have been subjected to the damaging effects of coral bleaching, primarily caused by rising sea temperatures due to climate change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel the algae (zooxanthellae) that live inside their tissues, causing the coral to turn completely white.</p>



<h3 id="h-threats">Threats</h3>



<p>Aside from coral bleaching, these reefs face various threats, including overfishing, pollution, sedimentation, coastal development, and the increasing acidity of oceans.</p>



<h3 id="h-importance">Importance</h3>



<p>Coral reefs act as nurseries for many marine species. They also play a vital role in coastal protection by reducing the impact of waves and storm surges. Furthermore, they are of significant economic importance for many Pacific Island nations due to tourism and fisheries.</p>



<h3 id="h-conservation">Conservation</h3>



<p>Numerous efforts are underway to conserve and protect Pacific coral reefs. This includes the establishment of marine protected areas, research on coral resilience and restoration, and local community involvement in reef management.</p>



<h3 id="h-cultural-significance">Cultural significance</h3>



<p>For many Pacific Island communities, coral reefs have significant cultural and spiritual importance. They are often integrated into local customs, legends, and daily life.</p>



<p>—</p>



<p><em>By </em><a href="mailto:andrei.ionescu5891@gmail.com"><em>Andrei Ionescu</em></a><em>, </em><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/"><em>Earth.com</em></a><em> Staff Writer</em></p>



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

Pacific coral reefs have naturally increased their heat tolerance

Although coral reefs are home to remarkable levels of biodiversity,...

<p>As cities grow and stretch out over the wilderness, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fireworks-can-have-long-lasting-impacts-on-wildlife/">wildlife</a> they encroach upon is forced to adapt or perish. Birds, with their intrinsic flexibility and adaptability, often find ways to thrive in these transformed landscapes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>One such species, the song sparrow, is demonstrating an unexpected evolution in its behavior, suggesting that the hustle and bustle of city life might be turning male songbirds into more attentive parents.</p>



<h2 id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



<p>Historically, numerous bird species that have made urban areas their home have displayed heightened levels of aggression.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The increase in aggression is typically attributed to the need to defend their territories, especially since city-living sparrows face fewer encounters with their kind due to reduced species density.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This has led to the interesting phenomenon of urban song sparrows displaying consistently stronger territorial aggression than their countryside counterparts.</p>



<p>A recent study led by Dr. Samuel Lane of North Dakota State University and conducted at the Sewall Lab at Virginia Tech delved into the potential ripple effects of this urban-induced aggression on the parental care exhibited by male birds.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-unexpected-behavior">Unexpected behavior&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Male songbirds in temperate zones are thought to reduce parental care when they are more aggressive. Yet in this study, we show that urban male song sparrows provided more care for their young," said Dr. Lane.</p>



<p>“Against our expectations, we found that they visited nests more frequently and were more successful parents than rural males.”</p>



<p>This is a surprising revelation, suggesting that these city-residing birds are breaking the expected behavior molds.</p>



<h2 id="h-prioritizing-parental-care">Prioritizing parental care</h2>



<p>In their quest to understand these ‘super songbirds,’ the research team theorized that if these urban male song sparrows were investing more energy and time into defending their territories, they would have lesser bandwidth to tend to their offspring.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This could mean that these birds might be compromising on parental care for the sake of territorial defense, potentially affecting their young's survival rates.</p>



<p>However, after observing six specific sites in south-west Virginia, which had recently witnessed urban expansion, over four breeding seasons, the researchers discovered an outcome that contradicted their initial hypothesis.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-super-dads">Super dads</h2>



<p>Urban male sparrows not only visited their nests with higher frequency than their rural counterparts but also commenced their nestling feeding routines earlier in the day.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“It turns out urban males are super males – able to defend their territories and care for their young.”</p>



<p>Yet, urban life isn’t without its challenges. The research highlighted increased instances of brood parasitism in the city, where birds like the brown-headed cowbird exploit the nests of other species for their egg-laying.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This can hamper the growth and survival of the rightful nest inhabitants. However, the silver lining for these urban birds is the notably lower rates of nest predation, which boosts their overall nesting success.</p>



<h2 id="h-benefits-of-city-living">Benefits of city living</h2>



<p>Dr. Lane emphasized the counter-intuitive nature of their findings, noting, “It is often assumed that urban areas are more challenging for wild animals. Our study adds to growing evidence that certain species of songbirds even benefit from living in urban environments when there is sufficient green space for them to find food and nest locations.”</p>



<p>While this research has shed light on the intriguing adaptations of the song sparrow in urban settings, it’s crucial to remember that these findings might not be universally applicable. Different species and varying degrees of urbanization can lead to unique behavioral outcomes.</p>



<p>The hope is that these insights will guide future city planning efforts to cultivate urban ecosystems that not only accommodate but actively nurture their wild inhabitants.</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fevo.2023.1234562"><em>Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution</em></a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>—-</p>



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City-living transforms male song sparrows into "super fathers"

As cities grow and stretch out over the wilderness, the...

<p>For as long as history has been recorded, the enigma of the mighty sabertooth tiger has fascinated us. A predominant question: what sound did this majestic creature make? Was it a powerful roar that resonated through prehistoric landscapes, or a throaty purr reminiscent of its domesticated descendants?</p>



<p>Scientists from <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Carolina State University</a> dove deep into the anatomy of these feline ancestors and found that the answer might not be as straightforward as previously believed.</p>



<p>The world of modern felines is divided between the pantherine "big cats" – the roaring lions, tigers, and jaguars – and the Felinae "little cats" that include purr-friendly species like lynxes, cougars, ocelots, and our beloved domestic cats.</p>



<h2 id="h-divergence-from-the-cat-family-tree">Divergence from the cat family tree</h2>



<p>Drawing the evolutionary tree, Adam Hartstone-Rose, a professor of biological sciences at NC State, points out an interesting divergence. He says, “Evolutionarily speaking, sabertooths split off the cat family tree before these other modern groups did.” Elaborating further, he remarks, “This means that lions are more closely related to housecats than either are to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-new-species-of-sabertooth-cat-discovered-in-south-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sabertooths</a>.”</p>



<p>The vocalization debate has its roots in anatomy. Specifically, in a series of tiny bones located in the throat. </p>



<p>Hartstone-Rose provides some insight into this. He emphasized, “That’s important because the debate over the kind of vocalization a sabertooth tiger would have made relies upon analyzing the anatomy of a handful of tiny bones located in the throat. And the size, shape, and number of those bones differ between modern roaring and purring cats.”</p>



<p>While vocal sounds arise from the larynx and soft tissues, anatomists observed that the anchoring bones for these tissues, the hyoid bones, exhibited size and number variations between the roaring and purring feline groups.</p>



<h2>Hyoid bones may be the answer</h2>



<p>Ashley Deutsch is a Ph.D. student at NC State and a central figure in the study. She explains, “While humans have only one hyoid bone, purring cats have nine bones linked together in a chain and roaring cats have seven. The missing bones are located toward the top of the hyoid structure near where it connects to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sabertooth-skull-offers-new-clues-about-the-extinct-mammal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">skull</a>.”</p>



<p>This observation has led to a widely held belief: given that sabertooth tigers had only seven bones in their hyoid structure, they must have roared. However, as Hartstone-Rose points out, this assumption is based on a shaky foundation.</p>



<p>“But when we looked at the anatomy of modern cats, we realized that there isn’t really hard evidence to support this idea, since the bones themselves aren’t responsible for the vocalization. That relationship between the number of bones and the sound produced hasn’t ever really been proven.”</p>



<h2>Discovering the sounds of the sabertooth tiger</h2>



<p>In their quest for clarity, the team examined the hyoid structures of nine modern felines and compared them with the 105 hyoid bones from the iconic sabertooth tiger, Smilodon fatalis.</p>



<p>Hartstone-Rose provides a nuanced perspective. “The anatomy is weird. They’re missing extra bones that purring cats have, but the shape and size of the hyoid bones are distinct. Some of them are shaped more like those of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/okay-how-do-cats-purr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">purring cats</a>, but much bigger.”</p>



<p>One might presume that the missing bones, termed the epihyoid bones, would be the key to different vocalizations. However, the research revealed that the bones closest to them were similarly shaped across purring and roaring cats.</p>



<p>Intriguingly, it was the bones nearer the vocal apparatus – the thyrohyoid and basihyoid bones – that showed more variations in shape. This leads to an intriguing possibility. With these critical hyoid bones resembling those of purring cats, sabertooths might have purred rather than roared.</p>



<h2>What the researchers learned</h2>



<p>Despite conventional wisdom, Hartstone-Rose highlights a gap in understanding. “We found that despite what history has told us about the number of bones in the hyoid structure, no one has validated the significance of that difference.”</p>



<p>Based on their findings, he suggests, “If vocalization is about the number of bones in the hyoid structure, then sabertooths roared. If it’s about shape, they might have purred. Due to the fact that the sabertooths have things in common with both groups, there could even be a completely different vocalization.”</p>



<p>Deutsch surmises, “It is perhaps most likely that the size of the hyoids plays a role in the pitch of vocalization. Although Smilodon wasn’t quite as big as the largest modern cats, its hyoid bones are substantially larger than those of any of their living relatives, so potentially they had even deeper vocalizations than the largest tigers and lions.”</p>



<p>This intriguing study, featured in the <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1002/jmor.21627" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Morphology</a>, not only challenges pre-existing notions about the vocalizations of the sabertooth tiger but also reminds us of the vast mysteries of the animal kingdom that are yet to be explored.</p>



<p>The research was supported by NC State’s Office of Undergraduate Research, and contributions were made by Brian Langerhans, an associate professor of biology at NC State, and former undergraduate Deanna Flores.</p>



<h2>More about sabertooth tigers</h2>



<p>Sabertooth Tigers or Sabertoothed Cats, are iconic prehistoric predators. They are often depicted in art and movies due to their unique and impressive appearance, notably their elongated upper canine teeth. Here's an overview of what is known about these creatures:</p>



<h3>Not actual tigers</h3>



<p>Despite the common name "sabertooth tiger," these creatures are not direct ancestors of the modern tiger. They belong to a subfamily called Machairodontinae within the Felidae family.</p>



<h3>Many species</h3>



<p>When we speak of sabertoothed cats, we're referring to a variety of species, not just one. The most famous of them is <em>Smilodon fatalis</em>, but there were others, including <em>Homotherium</em> and <em>Megantereon</em>.</p>



<h3>Distinctive teeth</h3>



<p>The most recognizable feature of these cats is their long, dagger-like canine teeth. These teeth could grow up to 11 inches in some species. They were likely used to deliver a fatal bite to the throat or belly of their prey.</p>



<h3>Habitat and range</h3>



<p>Fossil evidence shows that various sabertoothed cat species inhabited a wide range of environments across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa. <em>Smilodon fatalis</em>, for instance, was found largely in North and South America.</p>



<h3>Diet</h3>



<p>These predators primarily hunted herbivores. In the Americas, <em>Smilodon</em> might have preyed on large mammals such as bison, young mammoths, and ground sloths.</p>



<h3>Extinction</h3>



<p>Sabertoothed cats went extinct around 10,000 years ago. The exact cause of their extinction is debated. However, it's generally believed that a combination of climate change and the disappearance of large herbivores, which were their primary food source, played a role. Human hunting might have also been a factor.</p>



<h3>Physical attributes</h3>



<p>Apart from their teeth, many sabertoothed cats had robust builds with strong forelimbs, which they might have used to pin down prey. This physical structure suggests they were ambush predators, relying on close proximity rather than long chases.</p>



<h3>La Brea Tar Pits</h3>



<p>One of the most significant discoveries of <em>Smilodon</em> fossils is in the La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles. The tar pits have provided a wealth of information about these creatures, including insights into their age, diet, and injuries.</p>



<h3>Not the only sabertoothed creatures</h3>



<p>It's worth noting that the sabertoothed morphology – that is, the development of elongated canines – is not unique to these cats. It's a good example of convergent evolution, where unrelated species develop similar features. There were also sabertoothed marsupials and even a sabertoothed fish.</p>



<h3>Social behavior</h3>



<p>Some evidence, particularly from the La Brea Tar Pits, suggests that <em>Smilodon</em> may have lived in social groups. Frequent discoveries of multiple individuals together, along with healed injuries indicating individuals lived long after being seriously hurt (suggesting they were cared for), provide some hints towards social behavior.</p>



<p>It's essential to approach our understanding of sabertoothed cats with a bit of caution. While we've learned a lot from the fossil record, there's still much we don't know, and some aspects of their biology, behavior, and ecology might remain a mystery.</p>

Did sabertooth tigers growl or purr?

For as long as history has been recorded, the enigma...

<p>A comprehensive study is shedding light on the common wasp’s remarkable ability to proliferate across the UK. </p>



<p>The research, led by experts from <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/">University College London</a> in partnership with the Big Wasp Survey, has uncovered the genetic journey of the common wasp, Vespula vulgaris.</p>



<p>The Big Wasp Survey, which thrives on the contributions of amateur citizen scientists, has been running since 2017 under the <a href="https://www.royensoc.co.uk/">Royal Entomological Society</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The simple yet effective methodology involves enticing wasps into homemade traps using beer. Initially, the amateur researchers sent the captured wasps for analysis, but the onset of the Covid-19 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-pandemic-was-especially-damaging-to-the-mental-health-of-college-students/">pandemic</a> shifted the identification process to a more digital format using online videos.</p>



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



<p>Out of thousands of samples sent in during the survey's initial years, the UCL team zeroed in on 393 wasp samples. These samples were meticulously compared to identify genetic variances and similarities.</p>



<p>Study lead author Iona Cunningham-Eurich is an expert in the UCL Centre for Biodiversity &amp; Environment Research, UCL Biosciences, and the Natural History Museum).&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Vespula vulgaris is one of the most familiar wasps to most of us in the UK, as we very commonly see it in late summer," said Cunningham-Eurich.</p>



<p>"Despite the wasp being ubiquitous in Britain, a lot of research has been conducted outside of its native range, so this study is important in establishing a baseline of information about the common wasp’s ecology and dispersal behaviors at home."</p>



<h2 id="h-remarkable-dispersal-capabilities">Remarkable dispersal capabilities</h2>



<p>“By finding a single, intermixing population across Britain, our findings add to evidence that the common wasp is very good at spreading across the landscape, which may be because the queens are able to fly great distances, either on their own steam, aided by the wind, or accidentally transported by people," explained Cunningham-Eurich.</p>



<p>While the genetic results demonstrated a united wasp population across Britain, there was a notable exception found in Northern Ireland. Here, the wasp's genetic code was distinctly different, emphasizing the species’ remarkable dispersal capabilities.</p>



<h2 id="h-the-value-of-citizen-science">The value of citizen science&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Study co-author Professor Adam Hart of the University of Gloucestershire is a co-founder of the Big Wasp Survey.</p>



<p>“Our study showcases the potentially immense value of citizen science projects. Even though the samples were simply and inexpertly preserved, we were still able to conduct advanced genetic analyses and yield very useful findings," said Professor Hart.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"We are very grateful to our citizen scientists, as this could not have been achieved without people willing to volunteer their time to contribute to scientific research.”</p>



<h2 id="h-study-implications">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



<p>In just five years, an astounding 3,389 individuals engaged in the Big Wasp Survey, contributing over 62,000 wasp samples. The resulting information is impressively reliable, comparing favorably with expert-generated data from a 40-year period.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This treasure trove of data continues to offer fresh perspectives into the diversity and spread of social wasp species across the UK.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Furthermore, the survey helps to monitor the status of the yellow-legged Asian hornet, an invasive species known to occasionally visit the UK.</p>



<p>“Wasps are incredibly important as natural pest controllers and pollinators, so it’s very exciting that we’re able to improve our understanding of this common and fascinating insect with the support of citizen scientists, while also giving them the opportunity to get better acquainted with wasps, and see this much maligned insect in a different light," said study senior author and co-founder of the Big Wasp Survey, Professor Seirian Sumner.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Genetic journey of the common wasp revealed through citizen science

A comprehensive study is shedding light on the common wasp’s...

<p>City living is not just stressful for humans, but also takes a toll on wildlife. According to researchers at <a href="https://www.osu.edu/">The Ohio State University</a>, urban dwelling coyotes face unique challenges that are impacting their overall health.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team measured the concentration of the stress hormone cortisol in the hair of nearly 100 coyotes inhabiting the Chicago Metropolitan Area.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-higher-stress-levels">Higher stress levels</h2>



<p>The experts discovered that the animals residing in the most developed areas exhibited higher cortisol levels - a marker for chronic stress - compared to those in suburban or natural regions.</p>



<p>"This is the first mammalian carnivore that has been evaluated for stress in an urban environment. The city does present challenges for them, even though they’re really good at doing what they’re doing. This is helping us understand how well animals are adjusting to urban systems – or not adjusting to them," said study lead author Stan Gehrt, a wildlife ecologist at Ohio State.</p>



<h2 id="h-related-factors">Related factors</h2>



<p>Factors such as poor body condition, linked mostly to sickness with mange, and specific social roles within the pack were associated with higher stress levels. But the relationship between these factors and urban living is not entirely clear.</p>



<p>The research, conducted by the Urban Coyote Research Project under Gehrt's leadership, was recently published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165965"><em>Science of the Total Environment</em></a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The project has been monitoring Chicago's urban coyotes since 2000, collecting valuable biological samples and data on their behavior, movement, and reproductive success.</p>



<h2 id="h-complexities-of-urban-life">Complexities of urban life</h2>



<p>First author Katie Robertson, who carried out the work as a PhD student at Ohio State, utilized hair samples from the animals for the analysis, providing an estimate of long-term stress. The hair samples were assessed for cortisol concentration, revealing key factors connected to higher stress.</p>



<p>The team's hypothesis that coyotes in more urbanized Chicago areas would display higher stress levels was confirmed by the results.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, the findings also exposed further complexity in modern coyote life. Infections and environmental factors such as cold Chicago winters contributed to the stress, raising questions about the root causes.</p>



<h2 id="h-which-coyotes-are-affected">Which coyotes are affected?</h2>



<p>"The alphas are the dominant animals in their pack, so they’re the ones that are responsible for all of the territorial defense and they’re the only ones that are breeding," said Gerht.</p>



<p>"So there’s a lot going on with the alphas, whereas the subordinates and the pups, they have a pretty easy life. Their parents are doing all the hard work and they’re just coasting a little bit. And that was actually reflected in the cortisol levels."</p>



<p>Transients, on the other hand – adult coyotes that have left their parents but not yet established or joined a pack – have a different set of worries.<br></p>



<p>"Transients were right up there with the alphas in terms of stress. They don’t have to defend a territory, but they have to avoid getting attacked by resident coyotes – they’re going through territories on a constant basis – and are trying to avoid people and trying not to get hit by cars," Gehrt said.</p>



<p>In 2014, Gehrt's observations highlighted the adaptability of some urban coyotes, as they learned to look both ways before crossing streets. This new research contributes to an understanding of coyotes' resilience and the inherent challenges they face.</p>



<h2 id="h-some-coyotes-adapt-quite-well">Some coyotes adapt quite well</h2>



<p>"We see them on a regular basis living in some pretty challenging areas, and it seems to me they’re adjusting quite well – their survival rates are high, and the food supply is great," said Gerht.</p>



<p>"And that’s what we found, that there are trends related to higher stress, but there are also coyotes that are doing quite well in the city with fairly low stress levels – even alphas in some pretty intense environments."</p>



<p>"Even without the urban system, this is the first free-ranging coyote population to be evaluated for stress. And we see there’s stress associated with their very complicated social system and a lot of rules they’re following – intrinsic sources of stress that other species don’t have to deal with. It’s an interesting look into another window of their lives."</p>



<p>The study's findings offer a fresh perspective on the complexity of wildlife adaptation in urban environments, prompting further exploration of how city life may be shaping the health and behaviors of various animal species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Think city life is stressful? Some coyotes would agree

City living is not just stressful for humans, but also...

<p>Gray wolf populations in the United States have seen a remarkable resurgence over the past three decades. Once pushed to the brink of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shellfish-consumed-by-humans-are-ironically-more-resistant-to-extinction/">extinction</a>, these majestic creatures now roam freely across a vast expanse of the nation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While the recovery efforts have been heralded as a success, the growing populations of wolves are now facing substantial threats as they attempt to colonize human-dominated areas.</p>



<h2 id="h-remarkable-challenges">Remarkable challenges</h2>



<p>In the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/biosci/biad053"><em>BioScience</em></a>, wolf specialists David E. Ausband and L. David Mech delve into the conservation scene, shedding light on the challenges these returning wolves encounter. "Remarkable wolf conservation success yields remarkable challenges," said the experts, noting that a staggering 6,000 wolves have reclaimed territories across 11 states.</p>



<p>While this might sound like a celebration, the narrative is not that simple. These returning wolves are stepping into landscapes that have changed dramatically since they last roamed there. </p>



<p>As Ausband and Mech highlight, emerging wolf populations grapple with "fragmented habitats and barriers to dispersal," resulting in increased confrontations with humans, pets, and livestock.</p>



<h2 id="h-rising-concerns">Rising concerns&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The burgeoning gray wolf populations haven't just raised eyebrows in the scientific community - they've also stirred the pot politically. Addressing rising concerns regarding wolves preying on domesticated animals and reducing prey populations, several areas have responded with decisive actions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In Wisconsin, for instance, "the legislature requires a public hunting or trapping season whenever wolves are delisted from the US Fish and Wildlife Service’s (USFWS) list of Endangered species." In Colorado, on the other hand, wolves are celebrated and a recent ballot initiative has given the green light for their reintroduction.</p>



<h2 id="h-potential-ripple-effects">Potential ripple effects&nbsp;</h2>



<p>While supporters of their reintroduction might be a beacon of hope for the gray wolf in the short term, Ausband and Mech warn of the potential ripple effects. Such initiatives could inadvertently establish a legal groundwork that obstructs future reintroductions, thereby complicating the entire management process.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts express concern that an unstable regulatory environment could trigger dramatic swings in wolf numbers, jeopardizing the very conservation efforts that led to their resurgence.</p>



<h2 id="h-meticulous-management-is-needed">Meticulous management is needed</h2>



<p>So, what's the path forward? According to Ausband and Mech, the key lies in meticulous management that prioritizes the myriad of stakeholders involved.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Future wolf conservation in the United States will be affected by the ability of managers to predict colonization and dispersal dynamics, to reduce hybridization and disease transmission, to mitigate and deter wolf–livestock conflicts, to harvest wolves sustainably while satisfying diverse stakeholders, to avert a reduction in tolerance for wolves due to a disinterest in nature, and to engage diverse stakeholders in wolf conservation to avoid management by ballot initiative or legislative and judicial decrees."</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-gray-wolves">More about gray wolves&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Gray wolves (Canis lupus) are fascinating creatures with a complex history and a wide range of behaviors and adaptations. They are a symbol of the wild, representing both the challenges and the potential of conservation in the modern world.</p>



<h3 id="h-distribution-and-habitat">Distribution and habitat</h3>



<p>Historically, gray wolves were found throughout much of North America, Europe, and Asia, making them one of the most widely distributed land predators in the world. However, human activity, including habitat destruction and hunting, can greatly reduce their numbers and range.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 id="h-physical-characteristics">Physical characteristics</h3>



<p>Gray wolves vary in color from grizzled gray or black to all-white. Adults typically weigh between 40 and 175 pounds, with males being larger than females. They have a strong physique, with powerful jaws capable of generating tremendous biting pressure.</p>



<h3 id="h-diet-and-hunting">Diet and hunting</h3>



<p>Wolves primarily prey on large ungulates like elk, deer, and bison, but they can and will eat smaller prey if necessary. Wolves are pack hunters, relying on cooperation and strategy to take down prey much larger than themselves.</p>



<h3 id="h-social-structure">Social structure</h3>



<p>Gray wolves are known for their complex social structures and live in packs. A pack generally consists of an alpha male and female, their offspring, and sometimes unrelated wolves. They communicate using vocalizations, body postures, and scents.</p>



<h3 id="h-reproduction">Reproduction</h3>



<p>Mating typically occurs between February and March, with a gestation period of about 63 days. Litters can range from 1 to 11 pups, with the average being 4 to 6. Pups are born blind and defenseless but grow quickly.</p>



<h3 id="h-cultural-significance">Cultural significance</h3>



<p>Wolves have been a part of human folklore, myths, and legends for millennia. In some cultures, they are revered and considered sacred, while in others, they're seen as symbols of danger or evil. Their perceived cunning and communal hunting tactics have both fascinated and frightened humans.</p>



<h3 id="h-human-wolf-conflict">Human-wolf conflict</h3>



<p>As wolf populations recover and expand, they sometimes come into conflict with humans, especially in areas where they prey on livestock. This has led to tension between conservationists who wish to protect wolves and ranchers or farmers who view them as threats.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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The return of the gray wolf: Triumph or tragedy?

Gray wolf populations in the United States have seen a...

<p><a href="http://www.worldorangutanevents.org/international-orangutan-day.php">International Orangutan Day</a> is observed annually on August 19th to raise awareness about the plight of these great apes. Orangutans, which are native to the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra, are critically endangered due to habitat destruction caused primarily by deforestation for palm oil plantations.</p>



<p>The day aims to highlight the urgent need for conservation measures to protect and save orangutans from extinction. Various conservation organizations and advocates participate in events, campaigns, and educational programs on this day to shed light on the challenges faced by orangutans and ways in which people can help.</p>



<p>Individuals can support the cause by reducing their consumption of products containing palm oil, supporting sustainable palm oil initiatives, and donating to or volunteering with organizations that work on orangutan conservation.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-orangutans">More about orangutans&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Orangutans are one of the world's largest primates and are known for their intelligence, strong parental bonds, and unique behaviors. Here's a brief overview of these fascinating creatures:</p>



<h3 id="h-species-and-distribution">Species and distribution</h3>



<p>There are three species of orangutans:</p>



<ul>
<li>Bornean Orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus)</li>



<li>Sumatran Orangutan (Pongo abelii)</li>



<li>Tapanuli Orangutan (Pongo tapanuliensis)</li>
</ul>



<p>The Bornean species is found on the island of Borneo, while the Sumatran and Tapanuli species are native to Sumatra.</p>



<h3 id="h-physical-characteristics">Physical characteristics</h3>



<p>Orangutans have a distinctive reddish-brown fur. Adult males have large cheek pads and a throat pouch that they use to make loud calls. They have long arms, which are well-suited for brachiation (swinging from branch to branch) in the canopy.</p>



<h3 id="h-behavior-and-lifestyle">Behavior and lifestyle</h3>



<p>Orangutans are mostly arboreal, which means they spend a majority of their life in trees. They construct nests daily for sleeping. They are largely solitary creatures, especially adult males, who can be territorial.</p>



<h3 id="h-diet">Diet</h3>



<p>Orangutans are primarily frugivorous, meaning their diet consists largely of fruits. However, they also consume leaves, flowers, bark, insects, and, on rare occasions, small vertebrates.</p>



<h3 id="h-reproduction">Reproduction</h3>



<p>Orangutans have a long inter-birth interval, one of the longest for any animal. A female may only give birth once every 7-9 years, leading to a slow population growth.</p>



<h3 id="h-intelligence">Intelligence</h3>



<p>Orangutans are highly intelligent and are known to use tools in the wild. They've been observed using sticks to extract termites or honey and leaves as gloves or makeshift umbrellas.</p>



<h3 id="h-conservation-status">Conservation status</h3>



<p>All three species of orangutans are critically endangered. The primary threats they face are habitat loss due to logging and the expansion of palm oil plantations, illegal pet trade, and hunting.</p>



<h3 id="h-cultural-significance">Cultural significance</h3>



<p>In Malay and Indonesian, "orangutan" means "person of the forest" (from "orang" meaning "person" and "hutan" meaning "forest"). They play an important role in the cultures of the regions where they are found and are considered symbols of the wild and untamed jungle.</p>



<p>Protecting orangutans and their habitat is vital not only for the species themselves but also for the overall health of the ecosystems they inhabit, which have a direct influence on global climate and biodiversity.</p>



<h2 id="h-how-to-celebrate">How to celebrate&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Celebrating International Orangutan Day provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the plight of orangutans and to promote actions that can help save these magnificent creatures and their habitats. Here are some ways you can observe and celebrate the day:</p>



<h3 id="h-educate-yourself-and-others">Educate yourself and others</h3>



<p>Read about orangutans, their habitat, and the challenges they face. Share this information with friends, family, and colleagues.</p>



<h3 id="h-social-media-campaigns">Social media campaigns</h3>



<p>Use social media platforms to share facts, images, and stories about orangutans. Use relevant hashtags like #InternationalOrangutanDay or #SaveTheOrangutans.</p>



<h3 id="h-support-orangutan-charities">Support orangutan charities</h3>



<p>Donate to reputable organizations that work on orangutan conservation, such as the Orangutan Foundation International, Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation, or <a href="https://savetheorangutan.org/">Save the Orangutan</a>.</p>



<h3 id="h-adopt-an-orangutan">Adopt an orangutan</h3>



<p>Some organizations offer symbolic <a href="https://www.theorangutanproject.org/adopt/">adoptions</a> where you can "adopt" an orangutan, helping fund care and conservation efforts.</p>



<h3 id="h-reduce-palm-oil-consumption">Reduce palm oil consumption</h3>



<p>Check product labels and reduce or eliminate products that contain unsustainably sourced palm oil. Look for products with the RSPO (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil) label, which indicates sustainably sourced palm oil.</p>



<h3 id="h-host-an-awareness-event">Host an awareness event</h3>



<p>Organize or participate in events at schools, community centers, or parks to educate people about orangutans. This can be through presentations, documentaries, or interactive activities.</p>



<h3 id="h-visit-a-zoo-or-sanctuary">Visit a zoo or sanctuary</h3>



<p>If there's a zoo or sanctuary near you that has orangutans and supports conservation efforts, consider paying a visit. This can offer a closer look at these animals and learn more about them.</p>



<h3 id="h-buy-orangutan-friendly-products">Buy orangutan-friendly products</h3>



<p>Support companies and products that are committed to sustainable practices, especially when it comes to palm oil.</p>



<h3 id="h-petitions-and-advocacy">Petitions and advocacy</h3>



<p>Sign and share petitions calling for the protection of orangutans and their habitats. Advocate for policies and practices that promote conservation at local, national, and international levels.</p>



<p>Every small action counts. The more people become aware of the challenges orangutans face and take steps to help, the better chance they have for a future in the wild.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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

International Orangutan Day: Help protect these fascinating creatures

International Orangutan Day is observed annually on August 19th to...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

<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>



<p></p>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

<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>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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