<p>Dragonflies outlasted the dinosaurs and even endured asteroid strikes. But now they face a survival threat unlike any before. Rising heat and wildfires are reshaping the very traits they depend on to attract mates.</p>



<p>A study from the <a href="https://www.ucdenver.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Colorado Denver</a> shows how this shift could push some species toward local extinction. Traits that once drew partners are now putting dragonflies at risk.</p>



<p>“Dragonflies have survived asteroids, but now climate change and wildfires are threatening them in ways evolution can’t keep up with,” said lead author Sarah Nalley, a PhD student in CU Denver’s Integrative Biology program. </p>



<p>“Our findings suggest that adaptation alone may not be fast enough to protect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragonfly-larvae-expose-climates-hidden-influence-on-biology/">species</a> in a rapidly changing climate.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-ornaments-backfire">When ornaments backfire</h2>



<p>Many dragonflies have dark spots on their wings. These patterns attract <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragonflies-hunt-perfectly-even-in-extreme-temperatures/">mates</a>. They also absorb heat. In hotter regions and burned habitats, that heat builds too quickly. Males tire, rest, and lose chances to compete for females.</p>



<p>Thermal imaging confirmed the problem. Dark spots made wings hotter, faster. Unlike the peppered moth, where wing color affected survival through camouflage, dragonflies face a different pressure. Here, color weakens reproductive success. Survival is not enough if mating fails.</p>



<p>This twist highlights a blind spot in conservation. Scientists usually check if species survive hotter, drier habitats. But if mating collapses, the population vanishes regardless of survival, leaving ecosystems weaker and biodiversity loss far greater.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dragonfly-survival-amid-wildfires">Dragonfly survival amid wildfires</h2>



<p>“This changes how we think about vulnerability,” said Professor Michael Moore. “It’s not just about whether animals can survive after wildfire - it’s about whether they can reproduce in those modified environments. That’s the key to long-term survival.”</p>



<p>If reproduction falters, decline accelerates. And dragonflies matter. They eat mosquitoes, keeping insect numbers in check. They also feed birds, fish, and amphibians. Lose them, and entire food webs shift, unraveling in unpredictable ways.</p>



<p>Dragonflies have always seemed resilient. But this study suggests they may not keep pace with today’s rapid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragonflies-developed-dark-wing-spots-for-survival/">changes</a>, showing how climate and fire pressures can overwhelm even long-lasting species once thought secure.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfire-data-reveal-worrying-trends">Wildfire data reveal worrying trends</h2>



<p>The project began as a class assignment in Professor Moore’s course. Students worked with open datasets: wildfire maps from the U.S. Geological Survey, climate records, and citizen science observations spanning 40 years. No external funding backed the research.</p>



<p>Despite the simple beginnings, the analysis uncovered a serious trend. Dragonflies with ornamental wings are disappearing from fire-damaged and hotter regions. The data gave a broad view of how climate and wildfires interact with reproductive traits.</p>



<p>Nalley brought personal motivation. She lost her home in Superior, Colorado, during the 2021 Marshall Fire. That experience shaped her focus.</p>



<p>“I knew I wanted to study animals - and after the fire, I knew I wanted to study wildfires too,” said Nalley. “That experience pushed me to ask how animals are affected not just by surviving a fire, but by whether they can still reproduce and carry on the species afterward.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-for-conservation">Lessons for conservation</h2>



<p>The findings stretch beyond dragonflies. If ancient predators that once ruled the skies falter, what about other species? The research shows conservationists must look past survival rates. Reproduction matters just as much.</p>



<p>“Working with Sarah pushed me to think about my own research in a new way,” said Moore. “She came in with great questions about wildfires and reproduction that made me reconsider how I approach these big ecological issues.”</p>



<p>The study’s message is clear: ecosystems don’t just need species to live, they need them to breed. Dragonflies warn us of what happens when natural signals of attraction turn into liabilities, threatening stability, biodiversity, and long-term ecological resilience everywhere.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dragonfly-decline-from-wildfires">Dragonfly decline from wildfires</h2>



<p>Dragonflies have been here for hundreds of millions of years. Their decline would mark a profound loss. More than that, it would unsettle the balance of ecosystems that depend on them.</p>



<p>The CU Denver research shows how quickly environmental pressures reach into the smallest details of life - courtship displays, wing patterns, mating chances. Those details decide whether a species thrives or disappears, shaping both present ecosystems and future biodiversity.</p>



<p>Dragonflies are not just survivors from deep time. They are indicators of how even the most resilient animals can stumble in a warming, fire-prone world.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-025-02417-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Climate Change</a>.</em></p>



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



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Dragonflies lived with dinosaurs, now they face their toughest fight for survival

Dragonflies outlasted the dinosaurs and even endured asteroid strikes. But now they face a survival threat unlike any before. Rising heat and wildfires are reshaping the very traits they depend on to attract mates. A study from the University of Colorado Denver shows how this shift could push some species toward local extinction. Traits that once drew partners are now putting dragonflies at risk. “Dragonflies have survived asteroids, but now climate change and wildfires are threatening them in ways evolution can’t keep up with,” said lead author...

<p>A recent study led by <a href="https://www.durham.ac.uk/">Durham University</a> has revealed an intriguing yet concerning phenomenon regarding how European breeding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diving-birds-face-a-greater-risk-of-extinction/">birds</a> have adapted to climate change over the past three decades.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Contrary to initial expectations, these avian species have exhibited a slower response to climate shifts, offering a potential insight into the challenges and intricacies of species migration and survival in a rapidly changing environment.</p>



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



<p>The researchers discovered that the geographical range of European breeding birds has shifted at an average rate of 2.4km per year over the last 30 years.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This finding is particularly significant when considering that the predicted shift based on climate changes alone should have been approximately 50 percent faster. These results, therefore, underscore the extent to which the migration of these species has deviated from the theoretical predictions.</p>



<p>The methodology of the study involved analyzing data from two Europe-wide bird distribution atlases published 30 years apart.&nbsp;</p>



<p>An intriguing finding from the study was that local colonization and extinction events among species were not strongly impacted by the climatic changes between the two survey periods. Instead, they were predominantly influenced by the climatic conditions at the time of the first surveys.</p>



<h2 id="h-fascinating-responses">Fascinating responses&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Professor Stephen Willis from Durham University’s Department of Biosciences, one of the study leaders, provided a comprehensive interpretation of these findings.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Our results possibly indicate two fascinating responses to recent climate change," Willis explained. "On one hand, we see ‘colonization lags’ where species fail to follow improving climates, potentially due to the unavailability of suitable habitats or prey in new locations. On the other hand, we witness fewer extinctions in areas where we anticipated them, potentially indicating ‘extinction debts.’”</p>



<p>Willis further elaborated on the concept of "extinction debts," referring to situations where species persist in areas with unfavorable climatic conditions, due to time lag effects in their preferred habitats changing.</p>



<h2 id="h-implications-of-the-study">Implications of the study</h2>



<p>A significant revelation from the study was the importance of maintaining networks of local populations, both to minimize extinctions and to make populations more resilient to the impacts of climate change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The significant role of non-climatic factors in altering range changes illustrates that climate is just one factor impacting populations of European breeding birds," said study first author Dr.&nbsp; Christine Howard. She also warned against factors like persecution, which are still causing major issues for many species.</p>



<p>Dr. Sergi Herrando, who spearheaded the collation of data for the most recent distribution atlas, remarked on the invaluable contribution of coordinated survey data across many countries. “The work presented here underscores the ways in which such data, collected from a staggering number of 120,000 field workers, can be utilized to better comprehend the causes of species losses and gains,” Dr. Herrando said.</p>



<p>The findings from this research, published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/ncomms/"><em>Nature Communications</em></a>, are not only enlightening for the scientific community but also carry far-reaching implications for conservation efforts. Funded in part by the National Environment Research Council, the study forms a vital part of UK Research and Innovation, contributing to our understanding of how climate change is influencing biodiversity.</p>



<h2 id="h-european-breeding-birds">European breeding birds</h2>



<p>There are numerous species of breeding birds in Europe, from the common to the rare and endangered. They encompass a wide variety of habitats including forests, wetlands, grasslands, mountains, and even urban areas.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 id="h-well-known-examples">Well-known examples&nbsp;</h3>



<h4 id="h-european-robin">European Robin</h4>



<p>This is one of the most famous European birds. They are small, often found in gardens, and are identifiable by their distinctive red breast.</p>



<h4 id="h-barn-swallow">Barn Swallow</h4>



<p>Known for their long migrations, Barn Swallows breed across Europe and fly south to Africa for the winter. They have a beautiful blue-black back and a reddish-brown throat.</p>



<h4 id="h-common-chaffinch">Common Chaffinch&nbsp;</h4>



<p>These are common garden birds throughout Europe. The males are brightly colored, with a blue-grey cap, pink cheeks and breast, and a greenish rump.</p>



<h4 id="h-european-goldfinch">European Goldfinch&nbsp;</h4>



<p>These are small birds with a distinctive red face, black and white head, warm brown upperparts and white underparts with buff flanks and breast patches.</p>



<h4 id="h-blue-tit">Blue Tit&nbsp;</h4>



<p>Known for their blue and yellow plumage, these are popular garden birds that are often seen at bird feeders.</p>



<h4 id="h-common-blackbird">Common Blackbird&nbsp;&nbsp;</h4>



<p>These birds are entirely black in males with a yellow eye-ring and bill, while females are brown. They are common in gardens and woodland areas.</p>



<h4 id="h-eurasian-sparrowhawk">Eurasian Sparrowhawk</h4>



<p>A small bird of prey, it's found in woodland and sometimes in gardens. Males have bluish-grey back and wings and orangey-brown bars on their chest and belly, while females are larger with brown back and wings.</p>



<h4 id="h-white-stork">White Stork&nbsp;</h4>



<p>Famous for their nesting habits, they build large stick nests in trees or on buildings and other structures. They are white with black flight feathers and a red bill and legs.</p>



<h4 id="h-european-bee-eater">European Bee-eater&nbsp;</h4>



<p>A brightly colored bird found in southern Europe, they nest in sandy banks, usually near river shores, where they dig a tunnel and lay their eggs.</p>



<h4 id="h-atlantic-puffin">Atlantic Puffin&nbsp;</h4>



<p>This seabird breeds in large colonies on coastal cliffs or offshore islands, laying its eggs in burrows or crevices.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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European breeding birds adapt to climate change at a slower pace

A recent study led by Durham University has revealed an...

<p>Scientists from globally renowned institutions in Ireland, China, and the UK have unearthed new insights into the parenting habits of the prehistoric flying reptiles, the pterosaurs. These creatures roamed the skies during the era of the dinosaurs, and their parental instincts have long intrigued the scientific community.</p>



<p>A collaboration between researchers at <a href="https://www.ucc.ie/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University College Cork (UCC)</a>, <a href="https://www.nju.edu.cn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nanjing University</a>, <a href="http://english.ynu.edu.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yunnan University</a>, the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>, and <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University</a> of London has led to the surprising conclusion that pterosaurs did, in fact, exhibit parental care, but only within the larger species.</p>



<p>These <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2023.1102" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">findings</a> offer solutions to an ongoing mystery. In order for both birds and pterosaurs to take flight soon after birth, they require sufficiently developed wings. </p>



<p>Earlier studies of smaller, Jurassic-era pterosaurs revealed that hatchlings were born with large wings. This equipped them to flutter into the air within days of emerging from their eggs.</p>



<p>However, this finding raised questions about the pterosaurs' later relatives. They evolved to be considerably larger. </p>



<p>In the Cretaceous period, pterosaurs typically bore wingspans of about 5 meters. Some even boasted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jurassic-park-was-wrong-about-how-fast-pterosaurs-could-fly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wingspans between 10 and 15 meters</a>, which is roughly the size of a small glider.</p>



<h2 id="h-how-to-study-pterosaur-parenting">How to study pterosaur parenting</h2>



<p>Conducting this research was no small feat, according to the project's lead, Dr. Zixiao Yang from UCC. The team had to find examples of pterosaur parenting in which at least one very young or newly hatched specimen could be compared to adults to study their growth rates. However, infant pterosaurs are incredibly rare.</p>



<p>In collaboration with fellow researchers Professor Baoyu Jiang, Professor Michael Benton, Professor Xu Xing, and Professor Maria McNamara, Dr. Yang undertook the investigation. </p>



<p>With a mix of classic specimens from the Jurassic period in Europe and the Cretaceous period in North America, along with fresh finds from China, the team began their detailed study. They measured the skulls, backbones, wings, and hind legs of their samples.</p>



<h2>The allometry of flying reptiles</h2>



<p>The scientists focused on analyzing the allometry of these creatures. This refers to how their physical traits changed as they grew larger. </p>



<p>The concept of allometry is common in many animals, including humans, where babies, puppies, and kittens have relatively larger heads, eyes, and knees. As they mature, the rest of the body grows at a faster pace to achieve adult proportions.</p>



<p>"Our findings show that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-pterosaurs-were-fierce-competitors-in-the-late-cretaceous/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">small, bird-sized Jurassic pterosaurs</a> were born flight-ready, equipped with large wings and robust limbs," Dr. Yang explained. "Throughout their growth from infancy to adulthood, their limbs displayed negative allometry—meaning they started off large but grew slower compared to the rest of their bodies."</p>



<p>The story for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mystery-solved-pterosaurs-had-colorful-feathers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cretaceous-era giant pterosaurs</a>, however, was different. These creatures also began life as tiny hatchlings, but the growth of their key limb bones showed positive allometry, pointing to a contrasting developmental model.</p>



<h2>Larger pterosaur species were better at parenting</h2>



<p>In essence, this suggests that the giant pterosaurs had to give up low-energy parenting for the ability to grow to considerable sizes as adults. While minimal childcare might have been an energy-saving tactic in the early evolution of these ancient reptiles, the larger pterosaurs faced a unique challenge. </p>



<p>Larger pterosaur species took longer to mature. Consequently, their parents had to protect them from potential accidents. Due to the constraints of egg size, all pterosaur hatchlings, irrespective of whether they were large or small, began life as tiny creatures.</p>



<p>"To allow for the evolution of truly massive sizes, pterosaurs compensated for their investment in childcare by birthing non-flying infants," Dr. Yang clarified. This behavior is mirrored in certain birds and mammals today. Species like cattle and antelopes are mobile from the day they're born, while some birds can fly at a very young age.</p>



<p>While this behavior may pose risks to the young—due to their vulnerability to predators and their clumsiness—it's also costly for the mother, who must ensure that their offspring have well-developed limbs at birth. As with modern animals, extinct pterosaurs faced similar trade-offs. "They were restricted in maximum body size until the end of the Jurassic, at which point their parental care behavior changed, and then they could achieve huge sizes," Dr. Yang concluded.</p>



<h2>More about pterosaurs</h2>



<p>Pterosaurs, often referred to as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oldest-pterosaur-bones-found-in-australia-date-back-107-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pterodactyls</a>, were an order of flying reptiles that lived from the Late Triassic to the end of the Cretaceous period. They are notable for being among the first vertebrates to evolve powered flight, existing from about 228 to 66 million years ago.</p>



<p>Here's a more in-depth look at these fascinating prehistoric creatures:</p>



<h3>Classification and diversity</h3>



<p>Pterosaurs are part of the Archosauria group, which also includes dinosaurs, crocodiles, and birds. However, pterosaurs are not dinosaurs themselves, but a separate and distinct group. They were incredibly diverse, with over 130 known species varying widely in size and form.</p>



<h3>Size</h3>



<p>The size of pterosaurs ranged from the very small to the gigantic. The smallest pterosaurs like Nemicolopterus were about the size of a sparrow, with a wingspan around 25 centimeters (10 inches). </p>



<p>The largest known pterosaurs, like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-worlds-largest-flying-dinosaur-jumped-before-takeoff/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Quetzalcoatlus</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/hatzegopteryx-ancient-t-rex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hatzegopteryx</a>, had wingspans up to about 10-11 meters (33-36 feet), roughly the size of a small airplane.</p>



<h3>Physical characteristics</h3>



<p>Pterosaurs had a number of unique physical traits. One of the most notable was their wings, which consisted of a membrane of skin, muscle, and other tissues stretching from the ankles or elongated fourth finger to the body. </p>



<p>Unlike bats, which have fully webbed fingers, pterosaurs had a single large wing finger. Pterosaurs also had hollow bones, a trait they shared with the theropod dinosaurs and which greatly reduced their weight.</p>



<h3>Flying reptiles</h3>



<p>Pterosaurs were the first vertebrates to achieve true powered flight, meaning they could flap their wings to fly rather than just gliding. Their wing structure was complex and highly adapted for flight, with a large surface area that allowed them to create lift.</p>



<h3>Diet and lifestyle</h3>



<p>Pterosaurs had a wide range of diets and lifestyles. Some were fish eaters, catching their prey while flying low over water. </p>



<p>Others were adapted to eat insects, small dinosaurs, or scavenged carrion. Some fossils even suggest that certain types of pterosaurs may have had a primarily terrestrial lifestyle. Finally, as we learned above, larger pterosaurs spent much of their lives parenting to help their offspring survive and thrive.</p>



<h3>Fossil record</h3>



<p>Pterosaur fossils are rare because their bones were hollow and fragile, making them less likely to fossilize well. Despite this, fossils have been found all over the world on every continent.</p>



<h3>Extinction</h3>



<p>Pterosaurs went extinct at the end of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-pterosaur-from-the-cretaceous-found-in-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cretaceous period</a>, about 66 million years ago. This coincides with the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event that also wiped out all non-avian dinosaurs. </p>



<p>It's generally believed that a combination of environmental changes, possibly triggered by a large asteroid or comet impact, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pterosaurs-mass-extinction-event/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">led to their extinction</a>.</p>



<h3>Parental care</h3>



<p>Recent studies suggest that at least some pterosaurs may have provided parental care to their young, similar to modern birds. However, as with many aspects of pterosaur biology, this is still a topic of ongoing research and debate.</p>



<p>Despite sharing the skies with the ancestors of modern birds, pterosaurs were a unique lineage of flying animals, distinct from both birds and bats. Today, they continue to fascinate scientists and the public alike as we learn more about their biology and place in Earth's history.</p>

Pterosaurs had good parenting skills, but only the larger species

Scientists from globally renowned institutions in Ireland, China, and the...

<p>The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Preserve in central Belize covers about 267 miles of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-around-the-world-are-turning-brown-during-summer/">forests</a>, savannas, streams, rocky mountains, and caverns that are very difficult to access. In this type of terrain, tracking elusive animals like jaguars is extremely challenging.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Now, a team of scientists led by the <a href="https://www.uc.edu/">University of Cincinnati</a> has devised a novel and noninvasive technique for identifying the landscape use and conservation needs of elusive wildlife such as jaguars.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-follow-the-feces">Follow the feces</h2>



<p>By applying genetic and isotopic analyses of jaguar scat – detected by two dogs named Billy and Bruiser – the experts investigated the habitat needs of these big cats that share their environment with a variety of other species, including pumas, ocelots, margays, and jaguarundis.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Jaguars tend to stay away from people and are typically found at more remote sites. You have to be extremely lucky to see one in the wild,”&nbsp;said study co-author Claudia Wultsch, a wildlife biologist at the <a href="https://www.cuny.edu/">City University of New York</a>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Earth-Day-success.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p>According to Wultsch and her colleagues, a good alternative to study solitary, wide-ranging, nocturnal, and difficult to capture animals such as the majestic jaguar is a combination of genetic and isotopic analyses of their scat.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The former technique, known as molecular scatology, can help identify not only different species but also the individual cats that produced each sample, while the latter can offer reliable clues about where the animals hunted based on the geology and vegetation of the area.</p>



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



<p>Larger than leopards, jaguars are powerful apex predators and opportunistic hunters that consume a wide variety of prey, including small mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles. In Belize, where they are protected and live in a network of dedicated reserves, they even eat armadillos, deer, and coatis.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In 2000, researchers found that jaguars inhabiting this region had a large enough population to maintain genetic diversity, but they also detected some habitat loss and fragmentation in parts of their historical range.</p>



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



<p>The current study revealed that jaguars hunted their prey in the reserve’s pine forest savanna rather than in forests or agricultural areas, with male jaguars controlling (overlapping) territories of over 60 square miles. Moreover, the scientists found evidence that the jaguars were avoiding regions where prey was scarce due to recent wildfires, corroborating a previous camera trapping study.</p>



<p></p>



<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/0kbyAmopnWc
</div></figure>



<p>“Some forested areas in Belize have become more fragmented and isolated over the last 50 years, so one of the objectives of our research is to assess how jaguars are doing at several protected areas across Belize,” Wultsch said.</p>



<p>Better understanding these animals’ habitat use and hunting techniques could help devise better conservation strategies to protect them, the authors concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10344-023-01701-2"><em>European Journal of Wildlife Research</em></a><em>.</em>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Jaguars (Panthera onca) are one of the big cat species in the Panthera genus, which also includes lions, tigers, and leopards. Jaguars are native to the Americas, where they primarily live in rainforests, swamps, and grasslands.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Jaguars are considered near-threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), largely due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Here are some key points about jaguars:</p>



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



<p>Jaguars are well-known for their powerful build, and they're the third-largest big cat species, after tigers and lions. They have a distinct coat pattern, featuring a yellow or tan base color with black spots, often forming a rosette pattern. Some jaguars are melanistic, which means they appear almost entirely black.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hunting-and-diet">Hunting and diet</h3>



<p>Jaguars are apex predators with a wide diet. They are known for their strength and agility, and they can take down prey ranging from small rodents to large animals like caimans and tapirs. A distinguishing feature of the jaguar's hunting style is its ability to deliver a powerful bite directly through the skull of its prey, killing it instantly.</p>



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



<p>Jaguars are found primarily in Central and South America, with a few remaining populations in the southwestern United States. They prefer dense rainforests, but can also be found in grasslands, woodlands, and swampland.</p>



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



<p>Female jaguars usually give birth to two to four cubs after a gestation period of around 100 days. The cubs are born blind and gain their sight after two weeks.</p>



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



<p>The jaguar is a near-threatened species and its numbers are declining. Threats include loss and fragmentation of habitat, conflicts with humans, and illegal trade in jaguar parts. Various conservation initiatives are in place to protect and preserve this majestic species.</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>

Experts are tracking the elusive jaguar by studying its poop

The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Preserve in central Belize covers...

<p>In a world gripped by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/underground-climate-change-silent-hazard-is-destroying-our-buildings-from-beneath/">climate change</a>, one of the most vivid illustrations of its devastating impact has been the widespread bleaching of coral reefs.&nbsp;With oceans warming at an unprecedented pace, the delicate symbiotic relationship between corals and their resident algae is disrupted, which often leads to mortality.</p>



<p>These tragic events have led scientists to assume a tradeoff scenario - for corals to withstand warmer waters, they might need to ally with more heat-tolerant algal symbionts, but at the cost of their own growth and vitality.</p>



<h2 id="h-new-hope-for-corals">New hope for corals</h2>



<p>Contradicting this widely held belief, a breakthrough study from <a href="https://www.psu.edu/">Penn State</a> offers a glimmer of hope. The research suggests that certain corals can, in fact, weather the storm of climate change without significant metabolic cost. The results challenge the established notion of an unavoidable tradeoff.</p>



<p>"Contrary to the widespread perception that reef-building corals with heat-resistant algal partners suffer from stunted growth, our research shows these heat-adapted symbioses can better withstand severe marine heatwaves. As a result, they might become more prevalent in future reef ecosystems," said Professor Todd LaJeunesse.</p>



<p>Coral reefs, as Professor LaJeunesse explained, are built by colonies of tiny, individual polyps akin to sea anemones. The tissues of these polyps house numerous photosynthetic algae, or "dinoflagellates," in a symbiotic relationship.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, the ability of these dinoflagellates to tolerate high temperatures varies widely, and when the ocean becomes excessively warm, many symbiont species die, leading to the collapse of their coral hosts.</p>



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



<p>The team's investigation began with the first documented instance of a variance in coral mortality based on the species of their resident symbionts. This occurred in the Eastern Pacific Ocean following the 1997-1998 El Niño Southern Oscillation event, during which water temperatures soared 2-4°C above the historical average.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Corals playing host to the symbiont Durusdinium glynnii survived the thermal upheaval, while those with Cladocopium latusorum symbionts perished.</p>



<p>The durability of D. glynnii under high heat conditions prompted the question of whether their presence incurred a metabolic cost to the corals.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Past studies suggested that thermal tolerance comes with reduced nutrient transfer from symbiont to host, triggering negative physiological tradeoffs such as diminished growth and reproductive success," said study co-author Professor Mark Warner of the University of Delaware.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Our aim was to determine whether a similar tradeoff existed within these corals and how it might affect the future of coral reef ecosystems."</p>



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



<p>To answer these questions, the research team, led by Kira Turnham, compared the growth and reproduction of Pocillopora corals hosting both D. glynnii, the heat-tolerant symbiont, and the more temperature-sensitive C. latusorum symbiont. They are prevalent throughout the Indian and Pacific oceans, representing co-evolved and ecologically successful symbiotic relationships.</p>



<p>The scientists monitored several metrics, including skeletal growth, total mass increase, and calcification rates, to measure the coral's growth.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team also assessed reproductive output and response to thermal stress to gauge the performance of these symbiotic pairings.</p>



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



<p>"Our findings suggest that the association with D. glynnii doesn't lead to noticeable tradeoffs," said Turnham. "This pairing grows and reproduces just as efficiently as the more temperature-sensitive relationships."&nbsp;</p>



<p>Interestingly, the variance in performance between the two symbioses was only visible during experimental heating, underscoring the higher thermal tolerance of D. glynnii and its ability to confer heat resilience to the host corals.</p>



<h2 id="h-implications-of-the-study">Implications of the study</h2>



<p>Even as coral reefs face an uncertain future under climate change, this study provides a valuable perspective on the resilience of these ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research emphasizes the need to delve deeper into the symbiotic dynamics between corals and their algal partners, the understanding of which could potentially help predict the survival trajectory of these magnificent underwater cities.</p>



<p>"This study sheds light on the incredible biology of coral symbioses," concluded Turnham. "By exploring their co-evolutionary history and employing advanced symbiont species recognition, we can make more nuanced predictions about the persistence of corals in an era of escalating climate change."</p>



<p>The results are published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/journal/rspb"><em>Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</em></a>.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-coral-symbiosis">More about coral symbiosis</h2>



<p>Coral symbiosis, an intriguing biological relationship, is a crucial element in the formation and sustainability of coral reefs. This symbiotic relationship primarily occurs between coral polyps, the animals that build coral reefs, and microscopic algae known as zooxanthellae, a type of dinoflagellate.</p>



<p>In a mutualistic symbiosis, both organisms benefit from their partnership. Here's how it works:</p>



<p>Coral polyps provide a protected environment and compounds required by the algae for photosynthesis.</p>



<p>Zooxanthellae, in turn, produce oxygen, help remove wastes, and supply the coral polyps with organic products of photosynthesis. These compounds, including glucose, glycerol, and amino acids, are used by the coral for energy, growth, and reproduction.</p>



<p>Moreover, it's the photosynthetic pigments in the zooxanthellae that give coral their striking array of colors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>When corals are subjected to environmental stress, such as unusually high water temperatures, they may expel their symbiotic algae. This phenomenon results in coral bleaching, where the corals lose their vibrant colors and turn white. If the stress persists and the symbiosis isn't reestablished, the coral can die, having lost a significant source of its food.</p>



<p>Coral-algal symbiosis is a very complex interaction and can vary among coral and algal species. Some symbionts are more heat-tolerant and enable the coral to withstand higher temperatures, which can be a significant advantage in a warming ocean due to climate change.</p>



<p>The research into different types of symbioses is ongoing and scientists are particularly interested in the potential resilience some symbiotic combinations could offer in the face of environmental change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The ability of corals to switch symbionts, known as symbiont shuffling, could potentially provide a mechanism for corals to adapt to changing conditions, although our understanding of this process is still limited.</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>

Symbiosis will help some corals survive in a warming world

In a world gripped by climate change, one of the...

High,Detailed,Fiction,Red,Surface,Planet,With,Atmosphere,Near,Moon

<p>Forget everything you thought you knew about how life evolved on Earth. New research is challenging the longstanding belief that an uptick in oxygen levels during the Avalon explosion fueled the emergence of complex life hundreds of millions of years ago.</p>



<p>Between 685 and 800 million years ago, our planet underwent a significant shift in its biological inhabitants. </p>



<p>During <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-on-earth-may-have-been-kickstarted-by-a-stormy-and-active-sun/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">this period</a>, known as the Avalon explosion, our oceans, previously dominated by single-celled organisms like amoebas, algae, and bacteria, began to teem with more intricate multicellular life forms. </p>



<p>These included unusual sea sponges and relatives of modern mollusks. This transformative era was a prequel to the more renowned Cambrian explosion.</p>



<p>For nearly seven decades, scientists attributed this evolutionary leap to increased oxygen levels in the oceans. But a <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gbi.12557" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recent study</a> led by researchers from the <a href="https://www.ku.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Copenhagen</a>, in collaboration with the <a href="https://www.whoi.edu/who-we-are/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute</a>, the <a href="https://www.sdu.dk/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southern Denmark</a>, and <a href="https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lund University</a>, is upending this theory.</p>



<h2 id="h-studying-early-oxygen-levels-on-earth">Studying early oxygen levels on Earth</h2>



<p>The research team examined the chemical makeup of ancient rock samples hailing from a mountain range in Oman, using these relics as a kind of time capsule to gauge oceanic oxygen levels dating back to the Avalon explosion.</p>



<p>In a stunning revelation, the data showed that oxygen levels at the time of the biological shift were actually 5-10 times lower than they are today. To put that in perspective, it's equivalent to the oxygen concentrations found at twice the height of Mount Everest.</p>



<p>Associate Professor Christian J. Bjerrum has dedicated two decades to studying the conditions that surrounded the origin of life. She was quoted as saying: </p>



<p>"Our measurements provide a good picture of what average oxygen concentrations were in the world's oceans at the time. And it's apparent to us that there was no major increase in the amount of oxygen when more advanced fauna began to evolve and dominate Earth. In fact, there was somewhat of a slight decrease."</p>



<h2>Turning common knowledge upside down</h2>



<p>This fascinating discovery rewrites a 70-year narrative that positioned higher oxygen concentrations as a crucial factor in the development of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-clues-about-the-origins-of-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more advanced life forms</a>. </p>



<p>Bjerrum stated, "The fact that we now know, with a high degree of certainty, that oxygen didn't control the development of life on Earth provides us with an entirely new story about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/did-the-building-blocks-of-life-form-inside-of-water-droplets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">how life arose</a> and what factors controlled this success."</p>



<p>This shift in understanding may require reevaluating our foundational teachings and updating educational textbooks. Additionally, it opens new areas of exploration and encourages scientists worldwide to reinterpret their data and previous findings.</p>



<p>Bjerrum hopes this will stimulate research worldwide. "There are many research sections around the world, including in the United States and China, that have done lots of research on this topic, whose earlier results may shed important new details if interpreted on the basis that oxygen didn’t drive the development of life," he said.</p>



<h2>If it wasn't oxygen levels, what was it?</h2>



<p>This begs the question: if not oxygen, then what caused the proliferation of complex life during the Avalon explosion? Perhaps the answer lies not in an abundance of oxygen but rather its scarcity. According to Bjerrum, it's possible that these early organisms benefited from the low oxygen levels, as the water chemistry would naturally protect their stem cells.</p>



<p>This hypothesis draws parallels to modern-day cancer research and the study of human and animal stem cells. "We know that animals and humans must be able to maintain low concentrations of oxygen in order to control their stem cells, and in so doing, develop slowly and sustainably. With too much oxygen, the cells will develop, and in the worst case, mutate wildly and perish. It is far from inconceivable that this mechanism applied back then," Bjerrum concluded.</p>



<p>The researchers' findings were corroborated by fossil evidence from three different mountain ranges across the globe: the Oman Mountains in Oman, the Mackenzie Mountains in northwest Canada, and the Yangtze Gorges area of South China. The team employed Thallium and Uranium isotopes found in these ancient mountains to calculate oxygen levels from the time of the Avalon explosion.</p>



<p>As we delve deeper into our planet's distant past, we continue to refine and reshape our understanding of life's fascinating journey on Earth.</p>



<h2>More about primordial Earth and early oxygen levels</h2>



<p>Primordial Earth, or the early Earth, refers to the period of our planet's history that stretches from its formation about 4.54 billion years ago to the beginning of the Cambrian Period, around 541 million years ago. </p>



<p>This vast expanse of time, known as the Precambrian eon, is subdivided into the Hadean, Archean, and Proterozoic eons.</p>



<h3>Hadean Eon (4.6 - 4.0 billion years ago)</h3>



<p>The Earth began to form in the Hadean eon, around 4.54 billion years ago, in the dust and gas disk (protoplanetary disk) surrounding the young Sun. The process involved collisions and coalescence of cosmic debris, eventually forming the Earth.</p>



<p>During the Hadean eon, the young planet was extremely volatile and inhospitable. It was likely covered in molten rock due to the constant bombardment from other celestial bodies and intense heat from radioactive decay. This period saw the formation of the Earth's initial crust and the earliest oceans (of magma).</p>



<p>The Moon was also formed during this period, likely as a result of a massive collision between Earth and a Mars-sized object, often referred to as Theia.</p>



<h3>Archean Eon (4.0 - 2.5 billion years ago)</h3>



<p>The Archean eon is characterized by the formation of the Earth's continental crust. The molten surface cooled down to form a solid crust, and water started to condense and form the first oceans. Life began to appear during this period.</p>



<p>The atmosphere of the Archean Earth was vastly different from what we have today. It was mainly composed of methane, ammonia, water vapor, and carbon dioxide, with very little to no free oxygen.</p>



<p>Around 3.5 billion years ago, simple life forms, such as prokaryotes (cells without a nucleus) began to appear. This includes cyanobacteria, formerly known as blue-green algae. These organisms were significant as they used sunlight to make food—a process known as photosynthesis—and started producing oxygen as a waste product.</p>



<h3>Proterozoic Eon (2.5 billion - 541 million years ago)</h3>



<p>Until this recent study, it was widely believed that the Proterozoic eon saw a dramatic increase in oxygen levels in Earth's atmosphere. This event was known as the Great Oxygenation Event. This happened due to the continuous oxygen production by cyanobacteria.</p>



<p>Oxygen levels were believed to have played a critical role in shaping life on Earth. It led to the formation of the ozone layer, which shields the planet's surface from harmful ultraviolet radiation, allowing life forms to inhabit land. It also allowed for more complex, multicellular organisms to evolve.</p>



<p>This era also witnessed the formation of supercontinents, which later broke apart and began to resemble the modern configuration of our continents.</p>



<p>Towards the end of the Proterozoic eon, around 800 million to 600 million years ago, Earth experienced extreme glaciation events known as "Snowball Earth," where the entire planet was possibly engulfed in ice.</p>



<h3>Emergence of complex life during the Avalon explosion</h3>



<p>The Precambrian eon ended with the start of the Cambrian Period, marked by the "Cambrian Explosion" of life. This period, starting around 541 million years ago, saw a rapid increase in the complexity of life forms and the emergence of most of the major groups of animals that we know today.</p>



<p>Despite covering nearly 90% of Earth's history, the Precambrian era is less understood than the periods that follow it. This is largely because the geological record from that time has been heavily metamorphosed, and fossils from that era are scarce. However, what we do know paints a fascinating picture of a world that was vastly different from the Earth we inhabit today.</p>



<h2>More about the Avalon explosion</h2>



<p>The Avalon explosion, which took place approximately 575 to 565 million years ago, is notable for the emergence of a wide range of large, complex organisms, collectively known as the Ediacaran biota. </p>



<p>These life forms were incredibly diverse, differing significantly from the life forms that exist today, and they do not fit neatly into our current categories of animals, plants, or fungi.</p>



<h3>Dickinsonia</h3>



<p>One of the most famous life forms from the Ediacaran Period is Dickinsonia. These were oval-shaped organisms that could reach up to a meter in length. They appeared to have segments or units running longitudinally down their bodies. Whether Dickinsonia was an animal, a type of fungus, or a completely separate group of life forms is still a topic of debate among scientists.</p>



<h3>Charnia</h3>



<p>Charnia is another iconic Ediacaran life form. It had a frond-like appearance, with branches coming off a central stem. This creature was anchored to the sea floor and likely absorbed nutrients directly from the water around it. Like Dickinsonia, the exact classification of Charnia is uncertain.</p>



<h3>Spriggina</h3>



<p>Spriggina was a small, bilaterally symmetrical organism that may have been an early arthropod. It had a segmented body, and it is speculated that it might have been one of the first predators.</p>



<h3>Fractal organisms</h3>



<p>There were also many Ediacaran organisms that showed a fractal pattern in their body structure, meaning they had repeated patterns at different scales. These include rangeomorphs, such as Charniodiscus and Rangea, and erniettomorphs, such as Ernietta.</p>



<h3>Other Ediacaran organisms</h3>



<p>Many other organisms from this period are difficult to categorize. Some, like Tribrachidium, were radially symmetrical with three arms, while others, like Kimberella, show possible similarities to modern mollusks.</p>



<p>Most Ediacaran life forms were soft-bodied, which makes their preservation in the fossil record quite remarkable. The exact relationships of these organisms to modern groups are still uncertain. </p>



<p>Research into these enigmatic life forms continues. They represent an important phase in the evolution of life on Earth, filling the seas with diverse, multicellular organisms for the first time in Earth's history.</p>

Rewrite the textbooks: Life on Earth did not arise due to increased oxygen levels

Forget everything you thought you knew about how life evolved...

<p>A very intriguing fossil find is shaking up the scientific world, unearthing fresh evidence about predator-prey relationships from a time when dinosaurs reigned supreme. An extraordinary fossil from approximately 125 million years ago depicts a mammal attacking a dinosaur in a fierce confrontation.</p>



<p>The fossil tells the story of a fight for survival between a carnivorous mammal and a larger dinosaur that subsisted on plants. The fossil originates from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/late-cretaceous-dinosaur-was-sluggish-and-nearly-deaf/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cretaceous era</a>. It is nothing short of a time capsule that throws light on the predator-prey dynamics of that period.</p>



<p>Dr. Jordan Mallon is a palaeobiologist with the <a href="https://nature.ca/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Canadian Museum of Nature</a>. As one of the researchers involved in the study, he reveals, “The two animals are locked in mortal combat, intimately intertwined, and it’s among the first evidence to show actual predatory behaviour by a mammal on a dinosaur.”</p>



<p>This research was recently published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-37545-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>. He has incited intense debate and altered perceptions about the assumed dominance of dinosaurs in the Cretaceous.</p>



<h2 id="h-team-is-amazed-that-mammals-attacked-dinosaurs">Team is amazed that mammals attacked dinosaurs</h2>



<p>Previously, most people widely believed that mammals posed little threat to dinosaurs in the Cretaceous. This period of history was marked by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-flourishing-killed-off/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur dominance</a>. This newly discovered fossil refutes that notion. It now proudly holds a place in the collection of the Weihai Ziguang Shi Yan School Museum in China’s Shandong Province.</p>



<p>The well-preserved fossil reveals the smaller predator as a badger-like creature named Repenomamus robustus. This mammal would attack dinosaurs, and held its own in the animal kingdom of the time. </p>



<p>This despite being considerably smaller than a dinosaur. By Cretaceous standards, Repenomamus was one of the largest mammals, living during a period when mammals were yet to rule the Earth.</p>



<p>Researchers identified the prey as a species of Psittacosaurus, a plant-eating dinosaur about the size of a large dog. Psittacosaurs ranked among the earliest known horned dinosaurs. They roamed Asia from around 125 to 105 million years ago during the Early Cretaceous.</p>



<p>Dr. Mallon adds, “The co-existence of these two animals is not new, but what’s new to science through this amazing fossil is the predatory behavior it shows.”</p>



<h2>Fossil skeletons are in exceptional condition</h2>



<p>Scientists discovered the fossil in the Liaoning Province of China in 2012. That region holds a reputation for its well-preserved fossils. Both the Repenomamus and the Psittacosaurus skeletons are nearly complete. This is a rarity that can be attributed to the conditions of the Liujitun fossil beds. </p>



<p>Often referred to as "China's Dinosaur Pompeii," this region is known for fossils of dinosaurs, small mammals, lizards, and amphibians. Volcanic eruptions triggered mudslides and debris that suddenly buried these animals.</p>



<p>The volcanic material present in the rock matrix contributes to the remarkable preservation of the fossil pair. Dr. Aaron Lussier confirmed the exceptional condition of the fossil. He is a mineralogist with the Canadian Museum of Nature.</p>



<p>Study co-author Dr. Gang Han originally cared for the Psittacosaurus-Repenomamus fossil in China. He brought it to the attention of palaeobiologist Xiao-Chun Wu at the Canadian Museum of Nature. </p>



<p>A close <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/entangled-skeletons-of-Psittacosaurus-and-Repenomamus_Credit-Gang-Han_1big-scaled.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">examination of the fossil</a> reveals the larger dinosaur lying prone, its hind limbs folded on either side of its body. Above it, the body of the mammal attacking the dinosaur coils to the right. Repenomamus is seen gripping the jaw of the larger dinosaur and <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Repenomamus-biting-ribs-of-Psittacosaurus_Credit-Gang-Han_1big.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biting into its ribs</a>.</p>



<p>“The weight of the evidence suggests that an active attack was underway,” declares Dr. Mallon. The researchers are confident that this wasn't a case of a mammal scavenging a dead dinosaur. For one, there were no tooth marks on the dinosaur's bones, a strong indicator of an active prey, not a scavenged one.</p>



<h2>Similarities found in the present day animal kingdom</h2>



<p>The findings from this study draw parallels to present-day predator-prey relationships. Smaller animals today, like wolverines, wild dogs, jackals, and hyenas, are known to hunt larger animals. </p>



<p>Mallon explains, “This might be the case of what’s depicted in the fossil, with the Repenomamus actually eating the Psittacosaurus while it was still alive -- before both were killed in the roily aftermath.”</p>



<p>This discovery, while significant, is likely just the tip of the iceberg. The research team posits that the Lujiatun fossil beds in China, known for their volcanically derived deposits, will continue to offer new evidence of species interactions. These incredible discoveries paint a more nuanced picture of life during the Cretaceous period.</p>



<h2>More about Psittacosaurus</h2>



<p>Psittacosaurus, a name that translates to "parrot lizard," was a genus of ceratopsian dinosaur that lived during the Early Cretaceous period, approximately 125 to 100 million years ago. </p>



<p>Here's what we know about this intriguing dinosaur:</p>



<h3>Physical characteristics</h3>



<p>Psittacosaurus was a relatively small dinosaur. They ranged in size from the smallest species at roughly 1 meter (3.3 feet) in length to the largest species at about 2 meters (6.6 feet) in length. Unlike their more well-known relative, Triceratops, early ceratopsians like Psittacosaurus did not have large horns or frills. </p>



<p>Psittacosaurus is noted for its distinctive skull, which had a parrot-like beak, giving it its name. It had teeth adapted for shearing and slicing. Psittacosaurus also had self-sharpening cheek teeth, much like those of modern herbivorous mammals.</p>



<h3>Diet and behavior of Psittacosaurus</h3>



<p>Psittacosaurus was a herbivore, feeding mostly on vegetation. Its strong jaw muscles and distinctive beak perfectly suited Psittacosaurus for nipping off leaves and other plant matter.</p>



<p>Fossil evidence suggests that these dinosaurs lived in herds. Living in groups might have provided some defense against predators, which would have included small theropods.</p>



<h3>Distribution and discovery</h3>



<p>Archaeologists have found fossils of Psittacosaurus across a wide range of Asia, including China, Mongolia, Siberia, and possibly Thailand. The sheer number and geographical spread of Psittacosaurus fossils make it one of the most extensively studied dinosaurs.</p>



<h3>Variation among species</h3>



<p>Psittacosaurus is a very diverse dinosaur genus, with more than a dozen species named. This variation isn't just in size. Different species also exhibit differences in features such as the shape of the skull and the number and placement of teeth.</p>



<h3>Notable discovery shows that mammals attacked dinosaurs</h3>



<p>Some particularly well-preserved fossils of Psittacosaurus have allowed for exceptional insights into the dinosaur's biology. One notable specimen, described in 2020, preserved not only the dinosaur's skin and pigmentation but also the contents of its stomach. This allowed researchers to determine that it had a diet of ferns, conifers, and other plants.</p>



<p>Another Psittacosaurus fossil unearthed in China is unique for the evidence of predation it shows. This is the fossil referred to above, in which a Psittacosaurus is found entwined with a mammal, Repenomamus. As previously stated, the discovery suggests that it was being preyed upon by this creature. This evidence proves contrary to the usual conception of dinosaur-mammal dynamics at that time.</p>



<h3>Growth and development</h3>



<p>The extensive fossil record of Psittacosaurus, which includes many juvenile specimens, has also allowed scientists to study how these dinosaurs grew and developed. The evidence suggests that Psittacosaurus grew rapidly during their early years, much like birds and mammals. Compared to other reptiles, this is unusual. They also appear to have had a long lifespan compared to other dinosaurs of similar size.</p>



<p>In summary, due to its extensive fossil record, researchers have studied Psittacosaurus extensively. It provides us with important insights into dinosaur evolution, behavior, and ecology during the Early Cretaceous period.</p>



<h2>More about Repenomamus robustus</h2>



<p>Repenomamus robustus is an extinct mammal species that lived during the Cretaceous period, around 130 to 125 million years ago. The fossil record, primarily found in China, provides most of our knowledge about it.</p>



<p>The Repenomamus genus to which it belongs includes some of the largest known mammals of the Mesozoic era, a time when most mammals were small and typically the size of rodents or smaller.</p>



<p>Here's what we know about this intriguing creature:</p>



<h3>Physical characteristics</h3>



<p>Repenomamus robustus was a relatively large mammal for its time, measuring about 1 meter (3.3 feet) in length. This is about the size of a modern-day badger or raccoon. The animal was heavily built with a robust skeleton, which is reflected in its name "robustus."</p>



<h3>Diet and behavior of Repenomamus</h3>



<p>Repenomamus robustus was carnivorous, as indicated by its strong jaws and sharp teeth. It's one of the few mammals known from the Mesozoic era that are thought to have been capable of preying on small dinosaurs. </p>



<p>In addition, the recently discovered fossil of a Psittacosaurus and Repenomamus entwined in what appears to be a predator-prey relationship further highlights the animal's capability to hunt and attack dinosaurs. This discovery challenges the view that mammals were predominantly small and preyed upon during the dinosaur-dominated Mesozoic era.</p>



<h3>Paleontological significance of Repenomamus</h3>



<p>Repenomamus robustus and its relative, Repenomamus giganticus, are significant because they provide evidence that mammals were not just passive players in the age of dinosaurs. </p>



<p>At least some mammals, like Repenomamus, were active predators. They could take on other animals of their time, including small dinosaurs.</p>



<p>These creatures help to fill in our understanding of the Cretaceous period's ecology and the range of niches that mammals could occupy. They also help to demonstrate that the evolution of mammals and their roles in ecosystems were more complex than previously thought.</p>



<p>Repenomamus robustus provides us with a fascinating glimpse into the diversity of life during the Mesozoic era. Despite living in a world dominated by dinosaurs, these mammals were able to carve out their own niche. </p>



<p>Often times, they even turned the tables on their reptilian contemporaries. This fact significantly adds to our understanding of this period's biodiversity.</p>

Some mammals attacked dinosaurs, and they often won the battle

A very intriguing fossil find is shaking up the scientific...

A,Girl,In,A,Medical,Mask,And,A,Dog,Of

<p>In an intriguing revelation that could change the face of disease detection, a new study reveals that scent dogs could be a cheaper, faster, and more efficient tool for detecting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-made-covid-19-patients-sicker-for-longer/">COVID-19</a>. This method may outperform existing tests, including the widely used RT-PCR, and could become an invaluable tool for future pandemics.</p>



<p>The research review, published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1515/jom-2023-0104"><em>Journal of Osteopathic Medicine</em></a>, sheds new light on the uncanny ability of dogs to recognize diseases. Remarkably, dogs devote one-third of their brains to processing scent information. In contrast, only five percent of the human brain is dedicated to smell.</p>



<p>Medical scent dogs are trained to identify specific volatile organic compounds that our bodies produce during an illness. This impressive ability has been <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scent-dogs-can-sniff-out-coronavirus-on-human-skin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">successfully utilized</a> in the past to identify patients with conditions such as certain cancers, Parkinson's, and diabetes.</p>



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



<p>Professor Tommy Dickey from the <a href="https://www.ucsb.edu/">University of California, Santa Barbara</a> worked with Heather Junqueira from <a href="https://www.bioscentdetectiondogs.com/">BioScent Detection Dogs</a>. They examined 29 studies that used dogs to detect COVID-19. The studies involved over 31,000 samples, employed over 400 scientists from more than 30 countries, and featured 19 different breeds of dogs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Detection methods varied among the studies. Sometimes, dogs would sniff people directly - often in public places for health screening. Other times, dogs would analyze patient samples, including sweat, saliva, or urine.</p>



<h2 id="h-phenomenal-detection-capabilities-of-scent-dogs">Phenomenal detection capabilities of scent dogs</h2>



<p>In most of these studies, the sensitivity of scent dogs in identifying COVID-19 cases were comparable or superior to the currently recognized gold-standard RT-PCR tests or antigen tests.&nbsp;</p>



<p>One study, in particular, illustrated the phenomenal detection capabilities of these scent dogs. Four dogs were able to identify the equivalent of less than 2.6 x 10−12 copies of viral RNA per milliliter. This small amount is a precision equivalent to identifying one drop of an odorous substance dissolved in ten and a half Olympic-sized swimming pools. Astonishingly, this level of accuracy is three orders of magnitude better than modern scientific instruments.</p>



<h2 id="h-remarkable-accuracy-detecting-covid-19">Remarkable accuracy&nbsp;detecting COVID-19</h2>



<p>The scent dogs were not limited by the symptomatic status of the patients either. They were able to detect COVID-19 cases whether the patient was symptomatic, pre-symptomatic, or asymptomatic. The scent dogs could even identified new COVID variants and long COVID.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The speed at which these dogs could provide results, taking mere seconds to minutes, is significantly faster than conventional diagnostic approaches. Furthermore, this approach requires no expensive lab equipment and generates no plastic waste, making it an environmentally friendly option.</p>



<p>"Although many people have heard about the exceptional abilities of dogs to help humans, their value to the medical field has been considered fascinating, but not ready for real-world medical use," said Professor Dickey.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, after conducting this comprehensive review, Professor Dickey believes that "scent dogs deserve their place as a serious diagnostic methodology that could be particularly useful during pandemics, potentially as part of rapid health screenings in public spaces. We are confident that scent dogs will be useful in detecting a wide variety of diseases in the future."</p>



<h2>More about dogs' sense of smell</h2>



<p>Dogs have an incredibly powerful sense of smell, far superior to humans. This is due to a combination of factors. They include the number of scent receptors they have and the part of their brain that is dedicated to analyzing smells.</p>



<p>To give you an idea of how much better a dog's sense of smell is, consider this analogy. Humans have about six million olfactory receptors, while dogs have up to 300 million, depending on the breed. This means dogs can detect odors at concentrations nearly 100,000 times lower than humans can.</p>



<p>Also, the part of a dog's brain that analyzes smells is, proportionally speaking, 40 times greater than ours. This means they can analyze and differentiate smells in much more detail.</p>



<p>This ability has been put to use in a number of ways. For example, dogs can be trained to sniff out drugs, explosives, missing people, and even certain diseases, such as cancer.</p>



<p>It's also thought that dogs use their keen sense of smell to recognize their owners and other familiar people. They maintain this ability even if they've been apart for some time. Their sense of smell also helps them navigate the world, understand their territory, and communicate with other dogs.</p>



<p>However, while dogs have a powerful sense of smell, it works differently than ours. While we might smell a stew as a single scent, a dog could potentially differentiate the individual ingredients. This is why dogs can be trained to detect very specific scents, even in a world full of smells.</p>



<p>So, while we may rely primarily on our vision, for dogs, the world of smell is probably as rich and complex as the world of sight is for us.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Scent dogs are better than lab tests at detecting COVID-19

In an intriguing revelation that could change the face of...

<p>Coral reefs, known as the rainforests of the sea, play a pivotal role in the world's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/salt-pollution-threatens-freshwater-ecosystems/">ecosystems</a>. The elkhorn coral, a species of branching coral that has dramatically declined over the last few decades due to numerous environmental challenges, has found a surprising lifeline in the waters of Florida.</p>



<p>A groundbreaking study led by researchers at <a href="https://www.osu.edu/">The Ohio State University</a> reveals the key ingredients for restoring the critically endangered elkhorn coral. The revival of this particular coral depends heavily on its location, the surrounding environmental conditions, and the intricacies of its microbiome.</p>



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



<p>The researchers discovered a beacon of hope for the elkhorn coral in Florida’s Dry Tortugas National Park. This area's unique oceanographic conditions have resulted in an environment where corals can prosper.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The findings showed a direct correlation between these conditions and the growth and survival of elkhorn coral, including an observable positive impact on the coral's microbiome – the diverse array of microbes that naturally associate with them.</p>



<p>Speaking about the study, senior author Professor Andréa Grottoli explained that elkhorn coral is now "functionally extinct" in Florida, despite being once a major architect of the reef ecosystem in the Caribbean.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-environmental-stressors">Environmental stressors</h2>



<p>Professor Grottoli explained that the coral is highly sensitive and has suffered from environmental stressors such as marine disease and climate change, resulting in drastic population decline. Even though there are still some colonies, "there aren’t enough of them to effectively reproduce,” she said.</p>



<p>The survival and revival of the coral population is of utmost importance, particularly for regions like the Florida Keys. Coral reefs in this region provide protection against coastal erosion and significantly contribute to the local economy through tourism and federally managed fisheries.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The decline of such an integral species can be a major blow to the ecosystem and economic stability, hence necessitating the study to determine the best strategies for its restoration.</p>



<h2 id="h-previous-research">Previous research&nbsp;</h2>



<p>In 2018, the researchers collaborated with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and placed replicated elkhorn colonies in five different locations along Florida’s offshore coral reef.&nbsp;</p>



<p>After two years of observation, the team was ready to sample the coral’s physiology and compare the fate of the colonies. They looked at a range of physiological traits vital to the coral's survival, such as biomass, fat content, and indicators for coral feeding.</p>



<p>What they found was striking. Of the five sites, only the samples from Dry Tortugas National Park showed significant signs of thriving. As Grottoli noted, "certain biological traits indicated that the Dry Tortugas corals were eating more zooplankton," a critical nutrient source for the corals, playing a crucial role in tissue building and repair.</p>



<p>This observed abundance of food can be credited to the phenomenon of periodic upwellings that frequently occur in Dry Tortugas. These are wind-driven events that cause nutrient-rich water from the colder, deeper parts of the ocean to surge to the surface. This process stimulates zooplankton production and brings ample food for the elkhorn coral, creating a true oasis for the endangered species.</p>



<h2 id="h-potential-restoration-site">Potential restoration site</h2>



<p>The study makes a strong case for the Dry Tortugas as a potential location for elkhorn coral restoration, adding to the increasing body of evidence advocating for this. Grottoli notes that the restored corals here could potentially provide a source population for new coral recruits throughout the Florida Keys. However, she also cautions that more research is needed to ascertain if other at-risk species could flourish in the same location.</p>



<p>Despite the optimistic outlook of their findings, Grottoli is clear that the study is not a panacea for all problems facing endangered coral populations. It's about making smart decisions, she says, but the core issues of climate change and local stressors like overfishing and pollution need to be addressed.</p>



<p>“We’re trying to make smart conservation and restoration decisions, but at the core of this work is that coral reefs are declining because of climate change and local stressors like overfishing and pollution,” said Grottoli. “Until we address those two things, no matter how smart we are about coral restoration and conservation, we’re always just putting a band-aid on it.”</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s43247-023-00888-1"><em>Nature Communications Earth and Environment</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<p>—-</p>



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Favorable conditions offer hope for endangered elkhorn coral

Coral reefs, known as the rainforests of the sea, play...

<p>It's not uncommon to think of certain animals as creatures of habit, returning to their birthplace to mate or nesting in the same locations each year. However, a recent study reveals an unexpected level of continuity in the dining habits of green sea turtles, underscoring the need for habitat protection amidst a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-solutions-for-the-climate-and-biodiversity-crisis/">climate crisis</a>.</p>



<p>For approximately 3,000 years, generations of green sea turtles have returned to the same seagrass meadows for meals. This fascinating discovery was made by Willemien de Kock, a historical ecologist at the <a href="https://www.rug.nl/?lang=en">University of Groningen</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>De Kock's research opens up a new understanding of the endurance of sea turtles' behavioral patterns, which extend well beyond previously known timeframes.</p>



<h2 id="h-multi-generational-consistency">Multi-generational consistency&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The migratory patterns of sea turtles, from specific breeding locations to distinct feeding areas, are not a new revelation for the scientific community. But the multi-generational consistency in feeding locations underscores the necessity of safeguarding the seagrass meadows along the North African coastlines.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Sea turtles begin life under challenging circumstances. When their parents embark on a long journey after hatching, these young sea turtles clumsily venture from the beach into the ocean.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For the initial years of their lives, these turtles aren't particularly discerning eaters and sustain themselves on an omnivorous diet. However, around the age of five, green sea turtles instinctively navigate toward the seagrass meadows that their parents used to frequent, adopting a more herbivorous dietary routine.</p>



<p>Many efforts have been made to safeguard the nests of endangered green sea turtles along the eastern Mediterranean coasts. The seagrass meadows, however, are bearing the brunt of the climate crisis. "We currently spend a lot of effort protecting the babies but not the place where they spend most of their time: the seagrass meadows," said De Kock.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>To investigate, De Kock delved into boxes of sea turtle remains from archaeological sites across the Mediterranean, housed in the attic of the Groningen Institute of Archaeology. With her supervisor Dr. Canan Çakırlar having previously conducted the excavations, De Kock's task was to sift through these remains.</p>



<p>The meticulous examination of the sea turtle bones led De Kock to distinguish two species - the green sea turtle and the loggerhead turtle - and understand their diets. The key to this was bone collagen, a substance that preserves evidence of the creature's diet. Using a mass spectrometer to examine the bone collagen, De Kock was able to identify the types of plants the turtles consumed.</p>



<p>"For instance one plant might contain more of the lighter carbon-12 than another plant, which contains more of the heavier carbon-13," explained De Kock. "Because carbon does not change when it is digested, we can detect what ratio of carbon is present in the bones and infer the diet from that."</p>



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



<p>Collaborating with researchers at the University of Exeter, De Kock incorporated modern satellite tracking data that provided information about the present-day traveling routes and destinations of sea turtles.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team at Exeter had also been collecting tiny samples of sea turtle skin, which revealed dietary insights similar to what De Kock had discovered from the ancient bones.</p>



<p>Based on this data, De Kock managed to link the dietary preferences of green sea turtles from millennia ago to specific geographical locations. She discovered that for around 3,000 years, green sea turtle generations have been feeding on seagrass meadows along Egypt and West Libya's coasts. The loggerhead turtles' results were less specific, attributable to their more varied diet.</p>



<h2 id="h-implications-of-the-study">Implications of the study</h2>



<p>Understanding the historical eating habits of a species over generations carries significant implications. It helps combat the "shifting baseline syndrome" - a phenomenon where slow changes in a larger system go unnoticed as each generation of researchers redefines the natural state based on their initial observations.</p>



<p>"Even long-term data goes back only about 100 years," said De Kock. "But tracing back further in time using archaeological data allows us to better see human-induced effects on the environment. And it allows us to predict, a bit."</p>



<p>Recent models project a concerning future, with high risks of widespread seagrass loss in the very regions that green sea turtles have frequented for thousands of years. Such a change could be devastating for these creatures, given their longstanding loyalty to these particular feeding locations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2220747120"><em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em></a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Green sea turtles have returned to the same place to eat for 3,000 years

It's not uncommon to think of certain animals as creatures...

<p>Researchers have delved deep into the evolutionary mechanisms and genetic foundations that drive clownfish diversity. The study, recently published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/gbe/evad088"><em>Genome Biology and Evolution</em></a>, shines a light on the clownfish's unique genomic structure that has enabled this vibrant creature to thrive in a range of ecological niches.</p>



<p>Clownfish are known for their stunning colors and their intriguing symbiotic relationship with sea anemones. Their interactions with sea anemones appear to have spurred a rapid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-secrets-of-the-evolution-of-prehistoric-reptiles/">evolution</a>, leading to the emergence of 28 distinct species. This phenomenon of adaptive radiation makes them a promising model organism for scientists.</p>



<p>Despite their popularity in the scientific community, little was known about the genetic mechanisms and evolutionary processes that facilitated this extraordinary radiation, until now. The research was led by Anna Marcionetti and Nicolas Salamin from the <a href="https://www.unil.ch/central/en/home.html">University of Lausanne</a>.</p>



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



<p>The researchers designed an innovative study that compared the genome sequences of ten species of clownfish. These were grouped into five pairs based on their phylogenetic relationship.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Each pair consisted of a generalist clownfish species, which can associate with several different sea anemone hosts, and a specialist species, which cohabit with only one species of anemone. This design provided a unique platform to investigate the roles of parallel and convergent evolution following the clownfish's radiation.</p>



<p>"Adaptive radiations have always interested me because they can help us understand the mechanisms behind the origin of species," said Salamin. "Being able to combine new genomic resources to study in detail the genetic mechanisms of the clownfish radiation is exciting because it can help us understand how this iconic group has evolved and how species have adapted to sea anemones, which is such an intriguing mutualistic interaction.”</p>



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



<p>The analysis revealed that hybridization between clownfish lineages significantly impacted their evolutionary pathways.&nbsp;The findings also indicated a genome-wide acceleration in evolution, with over five percent of all genes found to be under positive selection.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This includes several genes that may be linked to the unique size-based hierarchical social structure in clownfish societies. Genes under positive selection included somatostatin, NPFFR2, and the receptor for isotocin, all of which may regulate growth, food intake, appetite, and modulate social behavior respectively.</p>



<p>Additionally, certain genes involved in adaptation to different ecological niches were identified. This includes rhodopsin, a gene that enables the visual system to adjust at different depths, and the duox gene, which regulates the formation of the white stripes that grant clownfish their distinct appearance. These findings propose that the accelerated evolutionary rates seen in clownfish might be linked to the emergence of their unique social and ecological adaptations.</p>



<p>An interesting revelation was that generalist species exhibited faster evolutionary rates than specialist species. This might be due to the more varied or dynamic environments that the generalists have to adapt to.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers also discovered genes showing parallel patterns of either relaxation or intensification of purifying selection in specialist or generalist species. This suggests parallel evolution of generalists and specialists to similar ecological niches.</p>



<h2 id="h-further-research-is-needed">Further research is needed</h2>



<p>However, the authors acknowledged the challenges of linking these findings to clownfish phenotypes, and the necessity for future research to fully characterize clownfish ecology and functional traits.</p>



<p>"To obtain a full understanding of the radiation of clownfish, it will be essential to achieve a comprehensive characterization of their ecology and functional traits," said the researchers. "Nevertheless, this study suggests candidate genes and pathways that may be involved in the diversification of the group, providing valuable hints for future functional research.”</p>



<p>This study could also guide future marine conservation and management efforts related to clownfish populations. Understanding the genetic adaptations of clownfish, including their social structures and interactions with sea anemones, can help devise effective conservation strategies to mitigate the impacts of environmental stressors and support the long-term survival of clownfish populations.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Clownfish, also known as anemonefish, belong to the subfamily Amphiprioninae in the family Pomacentridae. There are approximately 30 recognized species, grouped into two genera: Amphiprion and Premnas.</p>



<p>The most famous species, largely due to the film "Finding Nemo," is Amphiprion ocellaris, the common clownfish or ocellaris clownfish, which is orange with white stripes. Here are some other examples of clownfish species:</p>



<h3 id="h-amphiprion-percula">Amphiprion percula</h3>



<p>Also known as the true clownfish, it is very similar in appearance to the common clownfish, but it typically has more vibrant colors and a black edge around its white stripes.</p>



<h3 id="h-premnas-biaculeatus">Premnas biaculeatus</h3>



<p>Known as the maroon clownfish or spine-cheeked clownfish, it is maroon to dark brown in color with wide white stripes. It is the only species in its genus.</p>



<h3 id="h-amphiprion-polymnus">Amphiprion polymnus</h3>



<p>Also known as the saddleback clownfish due to the unique pattern on its back, it is dark brown to black with a white "saddle" and a white head bar.</p>



<h3 id="h-amphiprion-clarkii">Amphiprion clarkii</h3>



<p>Known as the yellowtail clownfish, it can have a highly variable coloration depending on its location and age, from a yellow to a dark brown body with white bars.</p>



<h3 id="h-amphiprion-akallopisos">Amphiprion akallopisos</h3>



<p>Known as the skunk clownfish or nosestripe anemonefish, it is characterized by a slender orange body with a single white stripe running along the dorsal ridge from the snout to the caudal fin.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Genetic mysteries: How clownfish evolved their vibrant diversity

Researchers have delved deep into the evolutionary mechanisms and genetic...

<p>Since many puppies are separated from their mothers and siblings early in life, people often wonder how this separation will affect them emotionally. Fortunately, according to a study published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/0376-6357(94)90056-6"><em>Behavioral Processes</em></a>, in the case of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-humans-close/">dogs</a> separated from their siblings at eight to 12 weeks of age, the memory of their siblings appears to wane in about two years, although that of their mothers is often much more persistent.</p>



<p>“It makes sense that dogs have a strong recognition of their mother, as they are an altricial species. This means that the young are underdeveloped at birth, but with the aid of their parents, they mature,” explained Britt Rosendahl, a dog behaviorist and training specialist at the <a href="https://woodgreen.org.uk/">Woodgreen Pets Charity</a>.</p>



<p>“Survival mainly depends on the mother, so recognition of the mother is crucial. Altricial animals are wired this way, which could be a reason why they are more likely to recognize their mother compared to their siblings.”</p>



<h2 id="h-limited-memories">Limited memories</h2>



<p>Dogs’ memories and emotions work quite differently from ours, allowing them to deal more efficiently with separation and quite easily bond with other conspecifics, as well as humans.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Although <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2016.09.057">studies</a> have shown that dogs have an episodic memory too, allowing them to remember specific events from their past, this capacity seems fairly limited, diminishing the extent of separation-induced traumas and emotional issues.</p>



<p>Nevertheless, veterinary doctors argue that puppies should not be separated from their relatives earlier than three months after their birth, in order to avoid behavioral and emotional problems later in life.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-early-development-is-critical">Early development is critical&nbsp;</h2>



<p>During their first weeks of life, socialization with other dogs is crucial to develop motor skills, bite control, problem-solving abilities, and resilience to stress. Thus, separation and social isolation during this critical developmental period could lead to anxiety, possessiveness, and aggression during maturity.</p>



<p>As Rosendahl argues, although leaving the safety and familiarity of their mother and littermates and transitioning to a new home will likely cause dogs some stress or even be a daunting experience, this is not necessarily because they miss their siblings, but rather due to the fact that a novel environment will force them to get used to different smells, sights, sounds, routines, and people.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Every puppy is different and will adjust to their new environment at their own pace. Some puppies may settle in quickly, while others may take a few weeks to adjust. During this transition period, let them decompress in their own time,”&nbsp;she said.</p>



<h2 id="h-steps-to-make-your-dog-feel-safe">Steps to make your dog feel safe</h2>



<p>In order for dogs to easily adapt to their new environments, owners should help them feel safe and secure and try to meet all of their physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to dog trainer and behavioral consultant Jennifer Malaway, steps to help dogs feel comfortable in a new setting include creating a dynamic, stimulating environment consisting of gates, crates, and pens that can be used for play and exploration. Malaway says to also provide a “zen zone” such as a cozy crate, where the dogs can rest quietly when they need a break.</p>



<p>Other steps suggested by Malaway to make a dog feel safe include: establishing healthy, predictable routines for walks, meals, and playtime; avoiding uncomfortable interactions with other dogs or humans; training with positive reinforcement rather than punishments; learning the basics of canine body language to better understand their cues; and setting aside some time for puppy socialization if the dogs are younger than 20 weeks of age.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Recognizing and supporting a puppy’s needs could help owners build deep, loving bonds with their pets that could last a lifetime.</p>



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



<p>Dogs have a type of memory known as "associative memory." This means that they can remember and associate specific actions with specific outcomes. For example, if a dog gets a treat every time it sits on command, it will remember that sitting when told results in getting a treat.</p>



<p>However, a dog's memory works differently than human memory. Humans have episodic memory, meaning we can remember specific events, places, people, and times. Dogs can't remember specific events in detail and can't anticipate future events based on past experiences in the same way humans can.</p>



<p>A study published in 2016 suggests that dogs may have a type of episodic-like memory, but this is different from the complex episodic memory that humans have. In the study, dogs were trained to imitate human actions even after a delay, which suggests they could remember what they had observed. But this isn't the same as remembering a sequence of events or anticipating the future based on those events.</p>



<p>Dogs do have a strong sense of routine and can remember and anticipate daily routines like meal times, walk times, and the time their owner usually comes home. This is more a form of associative memory than episodic memory.</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>



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Dogs have memories of their relatives, but you can help by making them feel safe

Since many puppies are separated from their mothers and siblings...

<p>The overexploitation of a variety of animal and plant species is currently a significant threat to nature. International pledges to halt species extinctions and ensure the sustainable harvest, use, and trade in wild species – such as the <a href="https://cites.org/eng">Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora</a> (CITES) - have recently been developed.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, according to a new study published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41559-023-02115-8"><em>Nature</em></a>, 904 (two-fifths) of species identified as likely threatened by the international wildlife trade are not covered by such global agreements, including 370 species that are listed as Endangered or Critically Endangered by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.iucn.org/">International Union for Conservation of Nature</a>&nbsp;(IUCN).</p>



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



<p>International <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-sunscreens-lose-effectiveness-and-become-harmful/">wildlife trade</a> protections set by CITES periodically decide on trade controls for thousands of animal and plant species. Yet, although over <a href="https://cites.org/eng/disc/species.php">40,000 species</a> are currently protected through this framework, in the absence of a reliable, repeatable methodology to inform the listing process, it is likely that many species threatened by international trade could be missing out on necessary global protections.&nbsp;</p>



<p>To identify such species and develop a robust methodology that could be employed by other scientists and conservationists in future studies, the researchers gathered data from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.iucnredlist.org/">IUCN’s Red List of Threatened Species</a> – the world’s most authoritative database on at-risk animal and plant species – and compared it with CITES-listed species.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>The analysis revealed that 904 species - including fish, flowering plants, birds, reptiles, and amphibians - are likely threatened by international trade, but are currently overlooked by CITES.</p>



<p>Among these species, 370 are listed by IUCN as Endangered or Critically Endangered, including 31 species of sharks and rays traded for their meat and fins, 23 species of palm intensively traded for horticulture, as well as other rare, notable species such as Owston’s Civer (used for wild meat and traditional medicine) and the Greater Green Leafbird (a major figure in the songbird trade).</p>



<p>Moreover, the scientists also identified 1,307 species which, although are currently CITES-listed, are still threatened by international trade, suggesting that they may require additional scrutiny to determine whether there are sustainability issues deserving tighter controls through CITES provisions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Finally, this study’s findings are not limited to identifying species in need of greater trade regulation, but could also inform the relaxation of trade controls for species which have improved in status and can potentially be traded sustainably.</p>



<h2 id="h-hundreds-of-unprotected-species">Hundreds of unprotected species</h2>



<p>“CITES listings should respond to the best available information on a species’ status and be adopted where they will be likely to benefit the species. While our research shows CITES performs moderately well at identifying species in need of trade regulation, it also suggests that hundreds of species are overlooked,” said study lead author Daniel Challender, a conservation scientist at the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/">University of Oxford</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Cross-referencing data from the Red List with CITES listing information brings these potential protection gaps to light, and I hope that Parties to the Convention will use our methodology to inform their decisions in the run-up to and during the next CITES CoP, currently scheduled to take place in 2025.”</p>



<p>“To achieve the aims of both CITES and the new <a href="https://www.cbd.int/gbf/">Global Biodiversity Framework</a> on tackling nature loss, it is vital that the international trade in animal and plant species is both sustainable and does not threaten the survival of the species in the wild,” added co-author Kelly Malsch, the Head of Nature Conserved at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unep-wcmc.org/en">UN Environment Program World Conservation Monitoring Center</a>&nbsp;(UNEP-WCMC).</p>



<p>“Our work identifies hundreds of species – including 370 Critically Endangered and Endangered species – in need of protections, and we also know data gaps mean the true figure could be much higher. We hope that CITES Parties will be able to use our new methodology in future to ensure that CITES listings are based on the best available science.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-species-overlooked-by-cites">Species overlooked by CITES</h2>



<p>The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is an international agreement that aims to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. It includes a wide variety of species, but due to the sheer number of species worldwide, some are inevitably overlooked.</p>



<p>The list of overlooked animals will change over time due to ongoing research, conservation efforts, and fluctuations in populations and habitats, as well as new threats like climate change and habitat loss.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The following are examples of animal groups that may be overlooked by CITES:</p>



<h3 id="h-invertebrates">Invertebrates</h3>



<p>Many species of invertebrates are often overlooked, including various types of insects, mollusks, and arachnids. These creatures often have vital roles in their ecosystems, yet are not as often the focus of conservation efforts.</p>



<h3 id="h-freshwater-fish">Freshwater fish</h3>



<p>Many freshwater fish species are under threat from habitat destruction, overfishing, and pollution. Although some are included in CITES appendices, many are not.</p>



<h3 id="h-amphibians">Amphibians</h3>



<p>Amphibians are one of the most threatened groups of animals in the world, yet many species are not included in CITES appendices. Reasons include lack of data on their population status and the challenges of regulating trade in these animals.</p>



<h3 id="h-reptiles">Reptiles</h3>



<p>Despite the large number of reptile species that are traded internationally for the pet market, many species are not covered under CITES. Reptiles can be difficult to track due to their secretive nature and the large number of unreported or illegal transactions.</p>



<h3 id="h-birds">Birds</h3>



<p>While many birds are covered by CITES, certain species might be overlooked due to lack of data or due to the focus being on more charismatic species.</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>

Over 900 threatened species are not protected by international trade agreements

The overexploitation of a variety of animal and plant species...

<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>



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



<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>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.</p>



<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>



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



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

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<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>



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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

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" 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> 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

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" 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> 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?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" 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 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

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

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

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<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

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

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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"

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

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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

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" 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 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

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

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

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

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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>



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<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

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

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"

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

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