Colorful,Spawning,Salmon,Swimming,In,A,Shallow,Creek.

The story of salmon migration is often told as a single, determined journey. Young salmon hatch in freshwater streams, then swim downriver to the ocean. After years at sea, they return to the very river where their lives began, to spawn and restart the cycle.



But new research is challenging this narrative. Many young salmon, it turns out, aren’t sticking to a straight path.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-broader-journey-than-expected">A broader journey than expected</h2>



New research from <a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOAA Fisheries</a>, Tribal scientists, and university scientists shows that up to 22 percent of juvenile salmon in California and Washington streams make unexpected detours. 



These young fish were tracked swimming down to the ocean and then back up into different rivers - some as many as nine times. In a few cases, they traveled as far as 40 miles (64 kilometers) up the coastline to entirely new rivers.



Rather than heading out to sea and staying there until adulthood, these juveniles wander. They criss-cross the coastal landscape, slipping between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-quarter-of-freshwater-fish-species-face-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">freshwater</a> and saltwater as they explore their options.



“Stretches of coast and their rivers form enormous salmon nurseries for the exploring juveniles,” explained the researchers.



The team documented this pattern in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-is-killing-coho-salmon-in-urban-streams/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coho salmon</a> (Oncorhynchus kisutch), as well as steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss), and cutthroat (Oncorhynchus clarkii) trout, all of which are salmonids . And they believe other salmon species may do the same.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-salmon-use-the-coast-for-migration">How salmon use the coast for migration</h2>



The salmonids didn’t just travel at random. Some popped into unfamiliar rivers for short visits. Others spent entire seasons in new places.



The fish were seen using streams on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula and Northern California - places separated by long stretches of saltwater.



“The landscapes are much more connected than we realized, and salmon take advantage of that,” said Stuart Munsch, lead author of the study.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/salmon_young-juveniles_break-migration-rules_illustration_credit-Su-Kim_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/salmon_young-juveniles_break-migration-rules_illustration_credit-Su-Kim_1s.webp" alt="This schematic highlights empirically observed paths of two juvenile coho (Oncorhynchus kisutch, orange and purple) and one juvenile Oncorhynchus mykiss (yellow) that made complex movements among drainages over periods of 203 days, 305 days, and 241 days, respectively. Numbers track individuals’ chronological detection sequences. Arrows indicate movement paths among drainages, with dashed line arrows showing additional details of individuals that moved back and forth between the East Twin and West Twin Rivers. Credit: Su Kim." class="wp-image-1968182"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This schematic highlights empirically observed paths of two juvenile coho (Oncorhynchus kisutch, orange and purple) and one juvenile Oncorhynchus mykiss (yellow) that made complex movements among drainages over periods of 203 days, 305 days, and 241 days, respectively. Numbers track individuals’ chronological detection sequences. Arrows indicate movement paths among drainages, with dashed line arrows showing additional details of individuals that moved back and forth between the East Twin and West Twin Rivers. Click image to enlarge. Credit: Su Kim.</figcaption></figure>



“This provides a more complete and accurate picture of the habitat they are using, which helps us make informed decisions as to how to promote their recovery.”



By testing out different rivers and streams, salmonids might find better shelter or more food. They might also be learning from each other - schooling with fish from different populations and picking up clues about where to find refuge or prey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stable-habitats-with-new-risks">Stable habitats with new risks</h2>



Heavy rains in the Pacific Northwest can quickly turn peaceful streams into violent torrents. Water flow shifts rapidly, and vital stream features like wood and gravel can be swept away. 



In such unstable environments, the ability to search out new, more stable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-will-create-large-habitats-for-pacific-salmon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitats</a> might be a lifesaver. But this behavior comes with danger. Young salmonids moving between fresh and saltwater become easier targets for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-salmon-outsmart-predators-on-their-journey-to-the-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators</a>.



“They’re perfect food for lots of other species, so they are taking a risk but also finding some benefits as they go,” said Todd Bennett, a salmon scientist at NOAA Fisheries’ Northwest Fisheries Science Center.



Still, the potential payoff may be worth it. Munsch noted that the young salmon and trout are searching for the best opportunities they can find.



“By moving around, they are also spreading the risk as some may find alternative habitats that better support them as conditions change," said Munsch.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-questions-about-salmon-behavior">New questions about salmon behavior</h2>



It’s already known that adult salmon sometimes stray into different rivers than the ones they were born in. But could that behavior be shaped by their earlier wanderings as juveniles?



The scientists are still looking into that. They say more monitoring is needed to determine whether the rivers explored by juveniles affect where they return to spawn later in life.



What’s clear is that juvenile salmon are more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-oceans-welcome-salmon-to-the-arctic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mobile</a> than previously assumed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-closer-look-at-salmonid-migration">A closer look at salmonid migration</h2>



On the Olympic Peninsula, the researchers documented nearly 900 juvenile coho salmon, steelhead, and cutthroat trout moving between different river systems. Depending on the location and year, up to 22 percent of tagged fish were later detected in other rivers.



Most fish moved between just two rivers. But around 8 percent of them moved between three different systems, making up to nine distinct migrations during their juvenile years.



In Northern California, 28 coho salmon were recorded moving between river drainages. One even swam from a tributary of Redwood Creek to another stream feeding Humboldt Bay - a journey of about 40 miles (64 kilometers).



This behavior might not be unique to the U.S. Pacific Coast. The team reviewed other studies and found similar movements on three continents. That suggests it could be widespread.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-salmon-management">Rethinking salmon management</h2>



Some of the salmonids followed routes commonly traveled by other fish. Others used paths that were rarely monitored. 



Because the study could only track fish in rivers equipped with monitors, the researchers believe their findings may underestimate how many juveniles make these kinds of moves.



The takeaway? Scientists may need to revise how they think about salmon <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-unpredictable-effects-on-salmon-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration</a>.



“We wouldn’t know about this unless we happened to be looking,” said Bennett. “Even after so many scientists have studied salmon over many decades, they still figure out how to surprise us.”



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/fee.2848" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment</a>.



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Many young salmon break the typical migration rules, boosting survival chances

The story of salmon migration is often told as a single, determined journey. Young salmon hatch in freshwater streams, then swim downriver to the ocean. After years at sea, they return to the very river where their lives began, to spawn and restart the cycle. But new research is challenging this narrative. Many young salmon, it turns out, aren’t sticking to a straight path. A broader journey than expected New research from NOAA Fisheries, Tribal scientists, and university scientists shows that up to 22 percent of juvenile...

A new dawn in environmental protection is emerging - one where artificial intelligence (AI) plays an integral role in understanding and mitigating the effects of chemicals on aquatic life.



It's a fascinating blend of cutting-edge technology and environmental science that could revolutionize our approach to safeguarding water health.



The breakthrough comes from an unexpected source - tiny water fleas known as Daphnia. Researchers have found that these minute crustaceans, which are highly sensitive to changes in water quality, can serve as excellent markers of potential environmental hazards.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unknown-chemical-mixtures-and-aquatic-life">Unknown chemical mixtures and aquatic life </h2>



This innovative study was a collaborative effort involving scientists from the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Birmingham</a>, the Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences (RCEES) in China, and the Hemholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) in Germany.



The team analyzed water samples from the Chaobai River system near Beijing, a body of water that is exposed to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-the-effects-of-pollutants-on-river-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollutants</a> from several sources, including agriculture, domestic waste, and industry.



Study senior author Professor John Colbourne, director of the University of Birmingham’s Centre for Environmental Research and Justice, elaborated on the research.



“There is a vast array of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forever-chemicals-found-in-tap-and-bottled-water-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemicals</a> in the environment. Water safety cannot be assessed one substance at a time," said Professor Colbourne.



"Now we have the means to monitor the totality of chemicals in sampled water from the environment to uncover what unknown substances act together to produce toxicity to animals, including humans.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potentially-harmful-chemical-mixtures">Potentially harmful chemical mixtures</h2>



Published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology, the study reveals that these tiny <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-fleas-may-be-the-solution-to-our-global-water-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water fleas</a> can indicate the presence (and potential harm) of various mixtures of chemicals in the aquatic environment.



Some chemicals, especially in combination, may affect significant biological processes in aquatic organisms. 



What's particularly concerning is that these chemical combinations can create environmental hazards that are potentially greater than when chemicals are present individually.



"Our innovative approach leverages <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lifes-rules-natural-selection-change-significantly-often-daphnia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Daphnia</a> as the sentinel species to uncover potential toxic substances in the environment," explained lead author Dr. Xiaojing Li of the University of Birmingham. 



"By using AI methods, we can identify which subsets of chemicals might be particularly harmful to aquatic life, even at low concentrations that wouldn't normally raise concerns." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harnessing-ai-for-a-safer-environment">Harnessing AI for a safer environment</h2>



The team's use of advanced artificial intelligence is a game changer. Dr. Jiarui Zhou of the University of Birmingham, who is also co-first author of the paper, led the development of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neuromorphic-computing-where-ai-meets-human-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI algorithms</a>.



“Our approach demonstrates how advanced computational methods can help solve pressing environmental challenges," said Dr. Zhou.



"By analyzing vast amounts of biological and chemical data simultaneously, we can better understand and predict environmental risks."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-discharge-and-environmental-protection">Chemical discharge and environmental protection </h2>



This breakthrough gives us a new tool to identify previously unknown chemical combinations that pose risks to aquatic life, enabling more comprehensive environmental monitoring. 



The research will also support better-informed regulations for chemical discharge into waterways, ultimately leading to improved environmental protection.



Funding was provided by the Royal Society International Collaboration Award, the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program, and the Natural Environmental Research Council Innovation People program.



With continued support, AI and the diligent water flea will keep playing their part in protecting our precious water bodies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-mixtures-that-pose-the-greatest-risk">Chemical mixtures that pose the greatest risk</h2>



Artificial intelligence plays a central role in this research. By leveraging advanced computational methods, the research team has significantly advanced environmental science.



AI enables the analysis of vast datasets, including biological responses of Daphnia and chemical profiles of polluted water samples, thus uncovering intricate patterns and interactions that traditional methods often miss.



One of the most notable outcomes is the ability to identify harmful chemical combinations that might be overlooked with conventional testing. 



Machine learning algorithms can predict which mixtures pose the greatest risks to aquatic life, even at concentrations previously considered safe. 



This predictive capability not only improves the efficiency of monitoring but also provides actionable insights for environmental regulators.



Looking ahead, the potential applications of AI extend beyond water fleas and rivers. Similar approaches can be applied to other ecosystems, paving the way for a comprehensive toolkit for environmental monitoring and conservation.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.4c11095" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Science &amp; Technology</a>.



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Chemical mixtures in rivers pose unknown threats to aquatic life

A new dawn in environmental protection is emerging - one...

Desert locusts are notorious for their ability to transform from solitary insects into devastating swarms under specific environmental conditions. 



Triggered by events like intense rainfall, these swarms can devastate crops, pushing food prices higher and leading to starvation and unrest. But now, a new study offers hope for controlling this menace.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-extent-of-the-problem">The extent of the problem</h2>



Locust swarms are one of nature's most destructive phenomena. Under favorable conditions, locusts form <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/locusts-have-brains-built-for-complex-odor-processing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">large groups</a>, known as swarms, that can devastate entire regions. 



These swarms can grow so massive that they resemble plagues, consuming staggering amounts of crops in their path.



To put this into perspective, a swarm covering just one square kilometer can eat enough food in a single day to feed 35,000 people.



This destruction severely impacts smallholder farmers, who rely on their crops for food and income. Regions like Africa and Asia, where food security is already fragile, are especially vulnerable. The loss of crops not only disrupts local economies but also threatens millions with hunger.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-locust-swarms-are-becoming-more-frequent">Locust swarms are becoming more frequent </h2>



The problem is worsening due to climate change. Increased cyclones and heavy rainfall, driven by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-are-in-a-race-against-time-to-save-our-food-supply-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a>, create ideal breeding conditions for locusts. These events bring moisture to arid regions, encouraging vegetation growth that provides food for locusts. 



As a result, locust outbreaks are becoming more frequent and severe, posing an even greater threat to food security in vulnerable regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-locust-swarms-in-advance">Predicting locust swarms in advance</h2>



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> have developed a predictive model to tackle locust swarms.



Using weather forecast data from the UK <a href="https://www.metoffice.gov.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Met Office</a> and computational models of locust behavior, the system predicts where swarms will move in their search for food and breeding sites. The results enable early interventions, such as targeted pesticide applications.



"During a desert locust outbreak, we can now predict where swarms will go several days in advance, so we can control them at particular sites," said Dr. Renata Retkute, the lead researcher from Cambridge’s Department of Plant Sciences. 



"And if they're not controlled at those sites, we can predict where they'll go next so preparations can be made there."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-era-of-locust-control">New era of locust control</h2>



Until now, locust swarm predictions have been inconsistent. The researchers’ model represents a shift toward more effective responses. 



By integrating real-time data on locust lifecycles, breeding behaviors, and weather patterns, the model offers both short- and long-term predictions.



"The important thing is to respond quickly if there's likely to be a big locust upsurge, before it causes a major crop loss. Huge swarms can lead to really desperate situations where people could starve," said Professor Chris Gilligan, senior author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-past-locust-swarms">Lessons from past locust swarms</h2>



The urgency of this innovation stems from a massive locust upsurge from 2019 to 2021, which stretched from Kenya to India.



This event devastated key crops like wheat, maize, and sugarcane, leaving many communities struggling. The response was hampered by disjointed information, revealing the need for a comprehensive model.



"The response to the last locust upsurge was very ad-hoc, and less efficient than it could have been. We've created a comprehensive model that can be used next time to control this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-weather-dramatically-increases-the-threat-of-desert-locusts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">devastating</a> pest," said Retkute.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-tested-and-reliable-tool">A tested and reliable tool</h2>



The new model has undergone rigorous testing using surveillance and weather data from the 2019-2021 upsurge. It now stands ready to inform surveillance, early warnings, and management strategies. 



The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (<a href="https://www.fao.org/home/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FAO</a>) and national agencies will use it to improve preparedness and response.



"Countries that haven’t experienced a locust upsurge in many years are often ill-prepared to respond, lacking the necessary surveillance teams, aircraft, and pesticides," noted the researchers. 



Climate change further complicates the picture, altering the movement and spread of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trillions-of-cicadas-set-to-emerge-in-historic-u-s-invasion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">swarms</a>, making proactive measures like this model essential.



By combining advanced technology and comprehensive data, the predictive model will help mitigate the devastation caused by desert locust swarms. Using this tool, nations can act quickly and decisively, preventing crop loss and protecting food security for millions of people. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/ploscompbiol/article?id=10.1371/journal.pcbi.1012562" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS Computational Biology</a>.



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Locust swarms threaten food security for millions of people

Desert locusts are notorious for their ability to transform from...

Whales continue to astonish us with the surprises they reveal, and the most recent discovery is nothing short of extraordinary.



A comprehensive new study reveals that right whales have been underestimated in terms of their longevity. This discovery not only overturns long-standing beliefs but also highlights the remarkable resilience and mysterious nature of these marine giants.



These magnificent creatures, once thought to live only 70 to 80 years, are now known to surpass 130 years, with some nearing the age 150 - far outliving humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-right-whales-astonishing-lifespans">Right whales' astonishing lifespans</h2>



This incredible discovery surfaced in an in-depth study that painstakingly analyzed photos of individual whales spanning four decades. 



The researchers spotlighted two specific species - the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/southern-right-whales-have-shifted-their-foraging-grounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southern right whale</a>, found in the oceans below the equator, and the North Atlantic right whale, native to the Atlantic coast of North America.



The experts used the photographic data to build survivorship curves - a statistical tool similar to what is used by insurance companies - to calculate these remarkable lifespans.



The data revealed that Southern right whales can live for more than 130 years, with some speculated to reach the ripe old age of 150.



On the other hand, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-stop-the-extinction-of-north-atlantic-right-whales/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Atlantic right whales</a> were found to have an average lifespan of a mere 22 years, with very few surviving beyond 50 years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impact-on-north-atlantic-whales">Human impact on North Atlantic whales</h2>



According to Greg Breed, the study's lead author at the <a href="https://www.uaf.edu/uaf/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Alaska Fairbanks</a>, this longevity gap between two closely related species is primarily attributable to human interference.



"North Atlantic whales have unusually short lifespans compared to other whales, but this isn't because of intrinsic differences in biology, and they should live much longer," said Breed. 



"They're frequently tangled in fishing gear or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ships-are-disregarding-efforts-to-protect-north-atlantic-right-whales/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">struck by ships</a>, and they suffer from starvation, potentially linked to environmental changes we don’t fully understand.”



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



These findings will not only rewrite biology textbooks but will also recalibrate the scales on which we measure conservation efforts for these creatures.



"To attain healthy populations that include old animals, recovery might take hundreds of years," noted Breed. "For animals that live to be 100 or 150 and only give birth to a surviving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/first-ever-footage-of-a-blue-whale-nursing-its-calf-captured/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">calf</a> every 10 years or so, slow recovery is to be expected.”



This slow recovery trajectory highlights the critical need for sustained conservation measures and global collaboration to protect these iconic marine mammals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-wisdom-of-the-whales">The wisdom of the whales</h2>



The research also emphasizes the significance of cultural knowledge among whale clusters. 



“There’s a growing recognition that recovery isn’t just about biomass or the number of individuals. It’s about the knowledge these animals pass along to the next generation," said Breed. 



The loss of older whales disrupts this critical transfer of knowledge and could potentially jeopardize the survival of younger individuals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-the-study-to-other-species">Expanding the study to other species</h2>



With this breakthrough discovery under their belts, the scientists plan to extend their research to other whales.



The objective is to determine if species currently believed to have an average lifespan of around 80 years might also be hiding centennial secrets. 



Furthermore, the team is eager to understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/echoes-of-the-past-whalings-long-term-impact-on-genetic-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whaling</a> has impacted the number of aged whales in today's populations and predict when their numbers might rebound to match their pre-whaling glory.



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



The dramatic difference in lifespans between Southern and North Atlantic right whales demonstrates the long-lasting consequences of historical and modern whaling practices.



Southern right whales, which faced significantly less hunting pressure in recent decades, are now showcasing their potential for remarkable longevity. 



In contrast, North Atlantic right whales bear the scars of centuries of exploitation, compounded by ongoing threats such as fishing gear entanglements and ship strikes.



Whaling not only reduced populations but also eliminated many of the oldest individuals, robbing populations of cultural knowledge that is vital for survival.



These findings emphasize the importance of creating safer ocean environments and reducing human interference to allow whales to reach their full lifespans.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adq3086" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Right whales live nearly twice as long as we thought

Whales continue to astonish us with the surprises they reveal,...

Despite their reputation as buzzing nuisances, flies serve a critical role as some of the Earth's most prolific pollinators. A new study led by Penn State scientists suggests that flies are increasingly at risk due to rising global temperatures.



An international team of researchers examined the heat tolerance of various bee and fly species in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas.&nbsp;



The results indicate that flies are more vulnerable to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-climate-change-is-buzzing-off-bumblebee-senses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming climates</a> than bees, since bees can handle significantly higher temperatures and occupy a broader range of habitats.



“Bees and flies are essential for pollinating plants, both in the wild and in agriculture,” said Margarita López-Uribe, an expert in pollinator health at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a> and lead author on the study. “However, these vital insects are declining due to habitat loss, pesticides, disease and the growing threat of climate change.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flies-are-underappreciated-yet-vital-pollinators">Flies are underappreciated yet vital pollinators</h2>



Flies, second only to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bees-do-not-learn-to-be-cooperative-it-is-in-their-genes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> in terms of the volume of crops and habitats they pollinate, play a crucial role in sustaining wild ecosystems.&nbsp;



By facilitating the reproduction of numerous plant species, flies help maintain biodiversity and provide resources for countless other organisms. They also increasingly contribute to agriculture - for example, flies serve as the primary pollinators of cocoa trees, the source of chocolate.



A 2020 analysis of global crops found that the 105 most widely planted crops benefiting from pollinators represent more than $800 billion in gross economic value. Among these pollinators, flies, specifically hoverflies and blowflies, consistently ranked just behind bees.



“It's time we gave flies some more recognition of their role as pollinators,” López-Uribe said. “Flies have a significant role, but they don't get as much attention - and they are vulnerable in all the same ways that bees are.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flies-bees-and-climate-change">Flies, bees, and climate change </h2>



Because insects cannot easily control their body temperatures, rising global temperatures present a serious challenge. 



To assess how different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollinators-face-extinction-risk-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> might cope, the research team measured the “critical thermal maximum” (CTMax) - the highest temperature at which insects can still move - of both bees and flies.



They found that bees can tolerate substantially warmer conditions than flies. On average, bees had a CTMax 2.3 degrees Celsius higher than that of flies.&nbsp;



Additionally, bees foraging in cooler morning hours proved more heat-tolerant than those active in warmer afternoons.&nbsp;



Geographic factors also mattered - pollinators living at high-elevation tropical sites showed lower CTMax values than their counterparts in subtropical areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-data-collection-across-the-americas">Data collection across the Americas</h2>



The study’s data collection occurred during COVID-19 lockdowns, so international students from Penn State and other universities conducted research in their home countries.&nbsp;



Instead of traveling, students worked with equipment sent to them, gathering measurements in their own kitchens and backyards.



“We sent out all of the equipment to do the study to students throughout the U.S. and South America,” López-Uribe said. “These students were collecting the data in their houses, using their kitchens to understand the thermal ecology these insects could withstand.”



“We effectively were able to provide an international research experience without being able to travel internationally.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flies-battling-climate-change">Flies battling climate change </h2>



The findings suggest that insects from cooler, high-altitude environments, such as Cajicá in Colombia, are particularly susceptible to even slight temperature increases.&nbsp;



Since flies are often the primary pollinators in alpine and subarctic regions, their reduced ability to withstand warming could jeopardize entire ecosystems.



“In alpine and subarctic environments, flies are the primary pollinator,” López-Uribe said. “This study shows us that we have entire regions that could lose their primary pollinator as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-climate-change-is-buzzing-off-bumblebee-senses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a> warms, which could be catastrophic for those ecosystems.”



As climate change continues to reshape global temperatures, understanding the vulnerabilities of flies - as well as bees - will be key in guiding conservation efforts.&nbsp;



Without recognizing and protecting the essential pollination services flies provide, communities may face declining biodiversity, reduced crop yields, and unstable ecological networks in the years to come.



The study is published in the <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.17161/jom.vi122.22505" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Melittology</a>.



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Flies are more vulnerable to climate change than bees

Despite their reputation as buzzing nuisances, flies serve a critical...

Murder,Hornet,Vespa,Mandarinia,Giant,Wasp,Known,As,Killer,Bee

The giant hornet, once feared for threatening insects, agriculture, and human comfort, has been eradicated from its foothold in the United States.



Officials in Washington State have announced that the invasive species, long feared to be on a path to permanent establishment, is no longer lurking in the region where it first appeared. This development, five years in the making, has calmed local growers and everyday folks who once wondered whether the hornet’s presence would spread beyond that northwest corner.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-narrow-escape-from-the-giant-hornet">A narrow escape from the giant hornet</h2>



The campaign against the giant hornet began when stunned beekeepers discovered eerily decapitated honeybees. Aggressive trapping and tracking techniques soon followed. Specialists from state agencies donned thick suits and carefully approached <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oriental-hornets-have-the-highest-alcohol-tolerance-of-any-animal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hornet</a> nests, using delicate methods to remove them. It took years for the last hornet to turn up empty-handed. This outcome did not come easily. The <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/insects-pests-and-weeds/insects/hornets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Washington State Department of Agriculture</a> and the United States Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, represented by pest program manager Sven Spichiger and associate deputy administrator <a href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/aphis-plant-protection-quarantine-selects-new-leader-its-emergency" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nicole Russo</a>, stand as key figures in this success story.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-the-front-lines">From the front lines</h2>



The individuals who led the fight against this insect had been worried about the possibility of a permanent invader.&nbsp;



“As an entomologist, I’ve been doing this for over 25 years now, and it is a rare day when the humans actually get to win one against the insects,” said <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Sven-Erik-Spichiger" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sven Spichiger</a> at the end of the months-long 2023 tracking season. The dramatic effort to find and eradicate the nests pushed everyone involved to remain vigilant, setting traps, training local port inspectors and working tirelessly to address every reported sighting.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nationwide-view">Nationwide view</h2>



The project required help from many. 



Observant residents phoned tip lines. Field teams outfitted giant hornets with tiny trackers. Nests discovered near the Canadian border were carefully sealed off. 



With continued support, officials now say the species is no longer present in that part of Washington. Despite this, many agencies remain on their toes. The United States Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, called the successful effort a <a href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/aphis-action-victory-over-worlds-largest-hornet-species" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“landmark achievement”</a> to celebrate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lingering-questions-about-the-giant-hornet">Lingering questions about the giant hornet</h2>



Experts have not identified the precise route by which the giant hornet originally arrived. Some suggest it might have hidden inside a shipping container. Without clear proof, there is no guarantee a fresh introduction will never happen again. Potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-are-hornets-so-successful-as-invasive-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">future detections</a> will likely trigger a swift response. New sightings remain possible, and teams intend to keep watch. Officials in Washington say that any further activity will face the same intense scrutiny as before. Past lessons will guide all future efforts, so no one wants to take chances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bigger-picture">The bigger picture</h2>



Outside the United States, fears linked to hornets have rattled others. 



In parts of Europe, alarm spread after a related species, the southern giant hornet, surfaced in northern Spain, prompting researchers to warn that more outbreaks could follow if left unchecked. The wide distribution of similar insects shows that this is not a contained issue. Scientists point to climate conditions, global shipping patterns, and changing ecosystems as reasons why these insects appear in unlikely places.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-than-a-name">More than a name</h2>



The hornet once caused a buzz in the media under various nicknames. Many remember it being called the “Asian giant hornet” and “murder <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hornets-are-the-most-important-pollinators-for-some-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hornet</a>,” but specialists have moved toward a name they find more accurate. 



As per the <a href="https://www.entsoc.org/publications/common-names/better-common-names-project" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Entomological Society of America</a>, calling it the “northern giant hornet” better suits its native range while also reducing problematic associations. That shift may help everyone talk about the insect without tying it to any single region or prompting unnecessary assumptions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-really-mattered">What really mattered</h2>



The giant hornet’s potential to damage honeybee colonies and other beneficial insects raised alarms among ecologists, beekeepers and farmers. A single hornet nest, if left alone, can cause serious losses in crucial pollinator populations. Many experts knew that if the species spread, it would be no small matter. <a href="https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/A-Bionomic-Sketch-of-the-Giant-Hornet%2C-Vespa-a-Pest-Matsuura-Sakagami/67e9b6a08e424b124bae2965e0d292e55d93ad43" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Studies</a> on the behavior of the northern giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia) suggest that these hornets can quickly invade hives, and their stings pack a painful punch for humans and other animals as well.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-learned-from-the-giant-hornets">Lessons learned from the giant hornets</h2>



One positive takeaway from this situation is that clear communication and community involvement can pay off. Early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alien-invasion-yellow-legged-hornet-spotted-in-the-u-s-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">detection</a> and rapid response efforts worked. The strong network of officials, scientists and residents raised the alarm, tracked every possible hornet and prevented it from spreading to other areas. Officials have also given training and supplies to various inspectors at key points of entry. The entire scenario, though tense, underlined how people can come together to stop a serious threat before it turns into an ongoing crisis.



Further details on the eradication of the northern giant hornet are available <a href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/aphis-action-victory-over-worlds-largest-hornet-species">here</a>. 



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Victory: Invasive 'murder hornets' have been completely eradicated from the US

The giant hornet, once feared for threatening insects, agriculture, and...

How does a barn owl, with its striking white plumage, vanish seamlessly against a night sky? A recent study conducted by a team of biology and optics researchers from various Spanish institutions unveils the intriguing secrets behind the barn owl’s stealthy hunting strategies.



The findings reveal how the barn owl’s distinctive white underbelly and face help it remain nearly invisible to its prey under moonlit and starlit skies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barn-owls-are-skilled-hunters">Barn owls are skilled hunters</h2>



Barn owls, scientifically known as Tyto alba, are medium-sized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-gray-owls-thrive-closer-to-human-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">owls</a> found across a wide range of habitats - including grasslands, farmland, and woodlands - throughout much of the world.



Recognized for their distinctive heart-shaped face, they have a striking appearance with a light-colored underbelly and a mottled brown and gray upper body. 



The owls have a unique facial disc that helps funnel sound directly into their ears, giving them exceptional hearing - which is crucial for hunting in low-light conditions.



Unlike most owls that hunt at dusk or in the early morning, barn owls are primarily nocturnal, relying on their acute sense of hearing to locate prey in complete darkness. 



Their diet mostly consists of small mammals, particularly rodents like mice and voles, but they also hunt birds, insects, and reptiles.



Barn owls are highly skilled hunters, capable of flying silently thanks to their specialized feather structure. The soft, velvety feathers on their wings and facial disc help reduce sound as they swoop in on their prey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barn-owls-hunting-in-the-moonlight">Barn owls hunting in the moonlight</h2>



Most owls rely on dark feather colors to blend into their surroundings, allowing them to remain inconspicuous while hunting. In contrast, barn <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-silent-flight-of-owls-is-one-of-natures-great-mysteries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">owls</a> stand out with a strikingly pure white underbelly and a round white face. 



At first, this coloration seems counterintuitive, as it could potentially make the owl more noticeable to prey.



However, researchers propose that this seemingly conspicuous trait is actually a highly effective adaptation for nocturnal hunting. The barn owl’s white feathers may serve as camouflage when seen against a clear, moonlit, or starlit night sky.



To test this theory, the researchers conducted an extensive study using advanced techniques. They measured light conditions in various nighttime scenarios, created models to simulate visibility, and used hyperspectral imaging to analyze how light interacts with the owl’s plumage.



These methods provided a detailed understanding of how the barn owl’s unique coloring aids its stealthy hunting strategy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barn-owls-blend-into-the-night-sky">Barn owls blend into the night sky</h2>



The researchers used sophisticated techniques to evaluate how visible barn <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-plans-to-save-spotted-owls-by-killing-450000-barred-owls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">owls</a> are under various nighttime lighting conditions. 



The team recreated scenarios involving moonlight, starlight, and reflected light to study how these light sources interact with the owl’s plumage, the night sky, and the ground below.



The analysis revealed that the white feathers of barn owls closely mimic the reflectance of moonlight. This alignment significantly reduces the contrast between the owl’s body and its background, making it exceptionally difficult for prey to detect the owl until it is too late.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-advantage-of-moonlight">The advantage of moonlight</h2>



A critical part of the study involved using hyperspectral imaging to measure how light reflects off different parts of the owl’s body. 



This technique provided precise data on how the feathers interact with various wavelengths of light, reinforcing the finding that the owl’s white plumage effectively minimizes visibility under moonlit conditions.



As discussed above, on clear nights illuminated by moonlight, the barn owl’s white underbelly blends almost perfectly with the bright night sky. 



This seamless blending reduces the chance of prey, such as rodents, spotting the owl as it silently approaches.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-owl-s-feathers-reflect-light">How the owl’s feathers reflect light</h2>



The owl’s feathers reflect light in a manner that significantly lowers the contrast between its body and the sky. This optical effect makes the barn owl nearly invisible to its prey, providing it with a crucial camouflage advantage during nighttime hunting.



Data from hyperspectral imaging confirmed these observations by showing how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/white-barn-owls-hunting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">owl’s feathers</a> reflect specific wavelengths of light. 



The measurements indicated that the plumage’s reflectance closely matches the light of the moonlit sky, further reducing visibility and enhancing its ability to evade detection.



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



This study presents an opportunity for further exploration into how other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-barred-owls-live-in-the-city-they-prefer-affluent-neighborhoods/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nocturnal predators</a> might employ similar strategies to avoid detection. 



The role of light reflectance in predator-prey dynamics opens a promising avenue for interdisciplinary research, integrating biology, optics, and behavioral science.



As barn owls continue to intrigue both researchers and bird enthusiasts, studies like this contribute to a greater understanding of how these silent hunters master the art of invisibility. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2406808121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Stealthy hunters: Barn owls use moonlight for camouflage

How does a barn owl, with its striking white plumage,...

In the quiet stillness of the ocean, when the sun dips below the horizon, marine creatures on coral reefs experience a significant shift.



As daytime creatures retreat into the safety of corals, nocturnal predators begin their evening hunt.



This fascinating cycle is as routine as the setting sun – until the intrusion of artificial light disrupts the natural order.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-study-on-coral-reef-nightlife">A study on coral reef nightlife</h2>



A recent press release revealed the details of an insightful study on the effects of light pollution on coral reef communities.



The research is recognized as the first, large-scale experiment addressing the influence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-light-pollution-disrupts-entire-ecological-networks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light pollution</a> on coral reef nightlife. 



The study was conducted by researchers from the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>, the Centre de Recherches Insulaires et Observatoire de l’Environnement (CRIOBE) in French Polynesia, and Chile's Pontificia Universidad Católica.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-artificial-light-a-silent-intruder">Artificial light: A silent intruder</h2>



"When the sun sets, coral reefs undergo a dramatic transformation," noted Dr. Emma Weschke, the study's lead author from the University of Bristol’s School of Biological Sciences.



The vibrant fish that command our attention during the day retreat to rest among the corals, and elusive nocturnal species emerge from caves and crevices in pursuit of prey.



"The night usually brings a veil of darkness that allows <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-ever-ocean-dna-study-uncovers-mysteries-of-marine-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine life</a> to hide from nocturnal predators. But artificial light generated by human activities exposes coral reef inhabitants to unexpected danger," explained Professor Andy Radford, the study's senior author.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-night-vision-experiment">The night vision experiment</h2>



The team utilized specially designed underwater infrared cameras to observe a coral reef at night.



These cameras allowed the researchers to film the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/overfishing-and-habitat-degradation-have-devastated-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine ecosystem</a> without altering fish behavior since fish cannot see in the infrared spectrum.



What they discovered was quite alarming. Compared to control sites that lacked artificial light, a larger number of different fish species were present on artificially illuminated reefs at night.



Further investigation revealed these species to be predatory fish feeding on zooplankton, small fish, and invertebrates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dangers-of-light-pollution">Dangers of light pollution</h2>



Dr. Weschke explained that many species detected on artificially lit reefs were not nocturnal. Instead, these fish are usually active during the day.



"Finding that light pollution can cause fish to stay awake later than usual is concerning because sleep - like for us - is likely essential for regenerating energy and maintaining fitness," said Dr. Weschke.



"<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-clownfish-are-struggling-to-survive-under-artificial-lights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Artificial light</a> makes it much easier for predators to locate and capture prey, reducing their foraging effort. Which is why we think that greater numbers are being attracted to artificially illuminated coral reefs at night," noted Professor Radford.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-the-impacts-of-artificial-light">Reducing the impacts of artificial light</h2>



However, the situation isn’t completely bleak. The researchers observed changes in the reef's nightlife after an average of 25 consecutive nights of being exposed to artificial light.



Brief periods of exposure didn't cause noticeable changes in fish communities. This suggests that implementing low-cost solutions rapidly could have a positive impact.



"Reducing the impacts of artificial light could help build resilience on valuable coral reefs," noted study co-author Professor Steve Simpson.



"Unlike greenhouse gases and plastics, artificial light is a pollutant that doesn’t leave a residue when switched off. Limiting artificial light in both its intensity and duration, prioritizing it for essential needs and reducing aesthetic use, will help re-establish naturally dark nights that marine ecosystems evolved with."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-coral-reefs-in-a-brightening-world">Preserving coral reefs in a brightening world</h2>



Coral reefs, often referred to as the "rainforests of the sea," are among the most diverse and vital ecosystems on the planet. 



They support nearly 25% of all marine species, provide coastal protection, and serve as critical sources of food and income for millions of people globally. 



However, the increasing intrusion of artificial light adds another stressor to already vulnerable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reef-food-webs-threatened-by-the-loss-of-picky-eaters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral reef systems</a>, which are struggling against threats such as climate change, overfishing, and pollution. 



Mitigating light pollution is one of the easiest ways to support coral reef health. By prioritizing low-impact lighting technologies and implementing targeted lighting practices near reef habitats, significant strides can be made in preserving these ecosystems.



Reinstating natural light-dark cycles by limiting artificial light exposure provides reefs a better chance to recover and thrive. 



As urban expansion and tourism increase near coastal regions, innovative solutions to minimize light pollution are becoming essential to ensure the survival of these ecological treasures.



The full study was published in the journal Global Change Biology.



Image Credit: Emma Weschke



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Light pollution is transforming nightlife on coral reefs

In the quiet stillness of the ocean, when the sun...

Cow,At,A,Meadow,In,Austria

We've all heard it before -- to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and curb fossil fuel dependency, we should consider reducing the energy and resources we use to make meat and animal products.



The entire lifecycle of raising animals for beef production -- from planting and harvesting feed crops to transportation, processing, and refrigeration -- consumes a very substantial amount of energy, mostly coming from fossil fuels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-a-baby-calf-to-one-single-hamburger">From a baby calf to one single hamburger</h2>



Raising a cow from calf to hamburger really puts a strain on our planet's resources. For starters, producing a single quarter-pound hamburger can use up to 1,600 gallons of water. 



This water goes into growing the feed the cow eats, irrigating crops, and managing waste. Plus, producing beef from animals is very energy-intensive, requiring around 2 to 3 kilowatt-hours of energy for each burger -- and that energy comes from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cop28-agreement-marks-the-beginning-of-the-end-of-fossil-fuels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil fuels</a>.



On top of that, each cow needs about 4.5 acres of land for grazing and feed production -- that's 4.5 acres for every cow in the world that is being raised to ultimately become hamburger. That's an incredible amount of land, to say the least.



Next, beef farming is a major source of greenhouse gases, releasing roughly 44 to 55 pounds of CO₂ equivalent per hamburger. Think about how many hamburgers are eaten around the world every day, and you'll start to get the idea.



But the impact doesn't stop there. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cattle-farming-expansion-could-expose-more-than-a-billion-cows-to-heat-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cattle farming</a> often leads to deforestation and habitat loss, especially in sensitive areas like the Amazon rainforest, which harms biodiversity and disrupts ecosystems while adding to carbon emissions. 



Cows are also not very efficient at turning feed into meat, needing about 15 pounds of feed to produce just 5 pounds of beef. To make beef production more sustainable, we can adopt several strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-raising-animals-takes-lots-of-energy">Raising animals takes lots of energy</h2>



A new study recently attempted to put a quantifiable number on this entire process, proving that it's not just about reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-greenhouse-emissions-rebounded-in-2021/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse emissions</a>.



Scientists from Norway, Austria, and Switzerland, based at the <a href="https://www.ntnu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Norwegian University of Science and Technology</a>'s (NTNU) Industrial Ecology Programme, have put a microscope to the energy requirements of our global food system. 



The study reveals that our consumption of animal products has a more significant impact than we might have imagined.



Crunching the numbers from 2015-2019, they found that a whopping 60% of the energy footprint of agriculture worldwide is attributed to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-products-linked-to-double-the-emissions-of-plant-based-foods/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal-based products</a>.



"That energy is predominately from fossil fuels," said Edgar Hertwich, a professor at NTNU’s Industrial Ecology Programme and the senior author of the paper.



As we have seen, societies are increasingly looking at electricity as a cleaner energy option. However, this does not readily apply to agriculture.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eating-animals-an-energy-hungry-industry">Eating animals: An energy hungry industry</h2>



One of the key challenges highlighted in the study is the inefficiency of animal husbandry. 



In simple terms, we grow food to feed animals, and then we consume the animals -- but the energy return on this "investment" is disappointingly low.



The research found that whilst livestock accounted for the majority of agriculture's energy footprint during the study period, it only provided a minor 18% of the calories consumed worldwide.



Led by Kajwan Rasul, the team sought to calculate the energy return on the energy investment, essentially benchmarking the efficiency of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-meat-and-dairy-alternatives-will-dramatically-transform-the-global-food-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food system</a>.



It's a simple equation. If the figure is less than 1, it signifies that it takes more energy to produce the food than we get back from consuming it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-out-the-energy-footprint">Mapping out the energy footprint</h2>



To conduct this study, Rasul employed two models, EXIOBASE and FABIO, that respectively allowed him to estimate energy use across various sectors and track the production, trade, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-food-consumption-doubled-in-the-last-decade/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consumption of food</a>. 



Integrating these two models using innovative methodologies enabled the team to examine the energy footprint of our food system on a much deeper level than previously possible.



Their study covered ten food categories, broken down from 123 different commodities, across a global spread of 20 regions. 



They also investigated the food system's energy footprint over two, five-year phases, namely 1995-1999 and 2015-2019, which enabled them to identify trends.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bright-side-positive-trends-over-time">The bright side: Positive trends over time</h2>



There is some good news to share. 



Rasul and the team of scientists found a noticeable improvement in the energy efficiency of global food systems over the two decades.



The energy return on energy investment shifted from 0.68 in 1995 to 0.91 in 2019. Yet, this still meant that, in 2019, it cost 10% more energy to produce every calorie provided to society than was returned in consumption.



Regions with less industrialized food systems, like parts of Africa and Asia, consistently had energy returns on investments higher than one. 



This is encouraging as these regions are home to 68% of the world's population.



Rasul noticed that this trend was also reflected in four of the world's five high-income regions. However, he expressed caution over whether this trend was genuinely due to efficiency improvements.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-security-and-the-fossil-fuel-energy-equation">Food security and the fossil fuel energy equation</h2>



The findings of this study raise broader implications beyond greenhouse gas emissions.



If energy for food production was boundless and environmentally neutral, we wouldn't need to worry about inefficiencies in agriculture. But that's not our reality.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seed-systems-will-play-a-key-role-in-future-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food security</a> is a significant concern. If our agriculture continues to depend heavily on fossil fuels, we may face a significant crisis. 



This isn't just a theoretical proposition: historical incidents, like the 1970s energy crisis or the more recent ripple effects from conflicts, highlight the potential risk.



As the authors of the study succinctly put it, agricultural systems heavily reliant on fossil fuels "turn the question of food security into a question of energy security." 



It's time for us all to take note and reconsider what's on our dinner plate.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/pnasnexus/article/3/12/pgae524/7919164" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PNAS Nexus</a>.



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The amount of energy it takes to make one hamburger is hard to believe

We've all heard it before -- to reduce greenhouse gas...

A concentrated sugar solution might be just as effective as antibiotics in treating a prevalent infection in dairy cows, according to new research led by Penn State.



The findings could significantly reduce antibiotic use in dairy farming, combating antimicrobial resistance in both animals and humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antimicrobial-resistance-in-the-dairy-industry">Antimicrobial resistance in the dairy industry</h2>



Antimicrobial resistance poses a growing public health concern, making alternatives to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antimicrobial-resistance-could-cause-39-million-deaths-by-2050/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotics</a> vital. 



“The main goal of this research was to test an antibiotic-free alternative option against the current gold standard for treating this prevalent disease,” said Erika Ganda, assistant professor of food animal microbiomes at <a href="https://www.psu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a>.



The study focused on treating clinical metritis, a uterine infection that affects cows after calving. This condition, one of the most common diseases in U.S. dairy cattle, is typically treated with antibiotics like ceftiofur. 



While effective, such treatments may contribute to antimicrobial resistance, a pressing issue for farm workers and their communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sugar-solution-as-an-alternative-to-antibiotics">Sugar solution as an alternative to antibiotics </h2>



The researchers explored intrauterine dextrose, a sugar solution, as an alternative to systemic antibiotics. Dextrose kills bacteria by pulling water out of them, causing the cells to dry out and die. 



“We have been searching for alternative therapies that can effectively treat metritis without relying on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-plays-an-overlooked-role-in-antibiotic-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotics</a>,” explained Adrian Barragan, associate research professor and co-lead author of the study.



This approach has shown promise in human wound healing but had previously delivered mixed results in cattle. Encouragingly, the study found that dextrose worked just as well as antibiotics for mild cases of metritis. 



“We were definitely not expecting to find that both treatments worked similarly for mild cases,” Barragan said. “That was a very exciting discovery.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comparing-the-effects-of-sugar-and-antibiotics">Comparing the effects of sugar and antibiotics </h2>



The study was conducted on 77 dairy cows from a farm in Pennsylvania that were diagnosed with clinical metritis.



The researchers divided the cattle into two groups for treatment comparison. One group received intrauterine dextrose while the other group was treated with systemic ceftiofur, a commonly used <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nanoplastics-can-alter-the-course-of-antibiotics-within-our-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotic</a>.



To assess the effectiveness of both treatments, the researchers carefully monitored the cows' recovery. They also analyzed the microbial communities in the cows' reproductive tracts using advanced DNA sequencing techniques.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preservation-of-microbial-health">Preservation of microbial health</h2>



The analysis provided insights into how the treatments affected the bacterial populations in the uterus.



The results revealed that both treatments had similar success rates in curing mild cases of metritis. However, there were variations in how the treatments performed depending on the severity of the infection. 



A key finding was that dextrose, unlike <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-create-viruses-to-combat-antibiotic-resistant-bacteria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotics</a>, did not disturb the natural balance of bacteria in the uterus. 



This preservation of microbial health could have long-term benefits for the cows, potentially improving their overall reproductive health and reducing the risk of complications.



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



The discovery of an effective sugar-solution holds particular promise for organic dairy farms, where antibiotics are restricted.



“Our findings may be applicable to reproductive disease in human medicine. In fact, we were inspired by medical literature and sugar-based wound treatments for people,” noted Barragan.



Ganda emphasized the benefits of minimizing antibiotics. "We treat cows with antibiotics only when necessary to ensure their welfare,” she said. "Minimizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-sea-microbes-show-promise-as-new-antibiotic-drugs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotic use</a> helps reduce the risk of resistant bacteria that can impact farm workers, families, and communities.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-dependency-on-antibiotics">Reducing dependency on antibiotics </h2>



While the study’s results are promising, the researchers acknowledge the need for further investigation. 



The study's relatively small sample size means the researchers cannot make definitive conclusions about the effectiveness of sugar-based treatments in curing uterine infections. 



However, the results are promising and provide an important starting point for further research. These findings suggest that sugar-based treatments could potentially be developed as viable alternatives to antibiotics. 



This can be used not only for treating infections in animals like dairy cows but also for addressing similar reproductive health issues in humans. The study opens the door to new, antibiotic-free approaches in both veterinary and human medicine.



By reducing antibiotic dependence, this research could have far-reaching impacts on animal welfare, public health, and the fight against antimicrobial resistance. 



“Antimicrobial resistance in human and veterinary medicine is a growing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antimicrobial-resistance-projected-to-kill-10-million-people-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">public health concern</a>,” Ganda noted. This sweet solution might just be a game-changer for addressing it.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2024.1478288/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Veterinary Science</a>.



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Sugar solution could replace antibiotics for treating dairy cows

A concentrated sugar solution might be just as effective as...

A new study provides compelling evidence that the Chicxulub meteorite impact, rather than massive volcanic activity, was the principal driver behind the extinction of the dinosaurs 66 million years ago.&nbsp;



Climate scientists from <a href="https://www.uu.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Utrecht University</a> and the <a href="https://www.manchester.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Manchester</a> have found that the climatic disturbances caused by colossal volcanic eruptions in India had largely subsided thousands of years before the meteorite struck, leaving the asteroid impact as the ultimate reason for the dinosaurs’ demise.&nbsp;



The findings, published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.ado5478">Science Advances</a>, help resolve a decades-long scientific debate.



“These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/violent-volcanic-eruptions-likely-caused-dinosaur-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic eruptions</a> and associated CO₂ and sulphur release would have had drastic consequences for life on Earth,” said Lauren O’Connor, a researcher at Utrecht University. “But these events happened millennia before the meteorite impact and probably played only a small part in the extinction of dinosaurs.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controversy-over-dinosaur-extinction-nbsp">Controversy over dinosaur extinction&nbsp;</h2>



For many years, researchers have debated whether the catastrophic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nadir-crater-second-massive-asteroid-impact-discovered-dinosaur-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asteroid</a> impact near the present-day Gulf of Mexico or the extensive volcanic eruptions of the Deccan Traps in India led to the mass extinction that ended the Cretaceous Period.&nbsp;



Both events significantly impacted Earth’s climate and ecosystems. The asteroid impact unleashed a chain of disasters including massive wildfires, tsunamis, earthquakes, and a lingering “impact winter” that darkened the skies and devastated the global food chain.



Meanwhile, the Deccan Traps eruptions, occurring both before and after the asteroid strike, released huge volumes of CO₂, dust, and sulphur into the atmosphere.&nbsp;



These emissions could have induced substantial warming or cooling, depending on their composition and duration. Determining which event bore the greatest responsibility for the dinosaurs’ extinction has long proved challenging due to their overlapping timelines and complex climatic effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-in-ancient-peats">Clues in ancient peats</h2>



To break this impasse, the research team turned to an innovative method: examining ancient peats in the United States for molecular fossils that record past temperatures.&nbsp;



Certain bacteria produce characteristic membrane-spanning molecules that vary in structure with ambient temperature.&nbsp;



By analyzing these molecular traces in sediments from the time leading up to the dinosaur extinction, the researchers reconstructed detailed timelines of Earth’s climate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temperature-timeline-leading-to-dinosaur-extinction-nbsp">Temperature timeline leading to dinosaur extinction&nbsp;</h2>



The analysis uncovered a distinct sequence of events. Approximately 30,000 years before the asteroid impact, a major phase of Deccan Traps volcanism triggered significant climate change, cooling the Earth’s surface by at least 5° Celsius.&nbsp;



This cooling was most likely caused by volcanic sulphur emissions, which blocked incoming sunlight.&nbsp;



However, the record shows that some 20,000 years before the asteroid struck, global temperatures had already rebounded, returning to levels similar to those before the volcanic eruptions.



“We were able to create a detailed ‘temperature timeline’ for the years leading up to the dinosaur extinction,” O’Connor explained. “By aligning these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-may-have-become-warm-blooded-180-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate changes</a> with the fossil record, we can better understand the relative timing of these events.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanic-effects-had-faded-before-the-impact">Volcanic effects had faded before the impact</h2>



The revelation that Earth’s climate had stabilized well in advance of the Chicxulub meteorite impact is crucial. Although the Deccan Traps eruptions undoubtedly stressed ecosystems and altered climates, their effects had dissipated long before the asteroid arrived.&nbsp;



With the volcanic disruptions out of the picture during the critical window, the data strongly point to the meteorite collision as the primary catalyst for the extinction event.



This finding helps distinguish between the gradual, prolonged influence of volcanism and the abrupt, globally catastrophic consequences of the asteroid strike.&nbsp;



The volcanoes may have prepared a stage of ecological vulnerability, but they did not deliver the final, fatal blow. By the time the asteroid hit, Earth’s systems had largely recovered from the volcanic perturbations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-asteroid-s-fatal-blow">The asteroid’s fatal blow</h2>



With volcanic influences waning thousands of years before the end of the Cretaceous, the Chicxulub meteorite impact emerges more clearly than ever as the decisive factor behind the dinosaurs’ extinction.&nbsp;



Unlike volcanic activity, which occurs over extended periods, the asteroid collision was sudden and brutally efficient, throwing a shroud of debris into the atmosphere, blocking sunlight, and triggering a cascade of environmental calamities.



“By comparison, the impact from the asteroid unleashed a chain of disasters, including wildfires, earthquakes, tsunamis, and an ‘<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nuclear-winter-dinosaurs-were-likely-killed-by-dust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact winter</a>’ that blocked sunlight and devastated ecosystems,” said Rhodri Jerrett of the University of Manchester. “We believe the asteroid ultimately delivered the fatal blow.”



This swift and worldwide onslaught overwhelmed ecosystems, knocking out plant life dependent on sunlight and collapsing food webs that supported large terrestrial animals like dinosaurs.&nbsp;



While some species survived - leading to the rise of mammals and, eventually, humans - the mighty dinosaurs could not endure this sudden catastrophe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-accurate-picture-of-earth-s-past">An accurate picture of Earth’s past</h2>



The methods employed in this study highlight the power of molecular paleoclimatology. By examining microscopic bacterial remains embedded in ancient sediments, scientists can now resolve the timing and intensity of climate changes from millions of years ago with remarkable precision.&nbsp;



These advances allow researchers to clarify the interplay between volcanic eruptions, asteroid impacts, and mass extinctions, painting a more accurate picture of Earth’s deep past.



The study’s conclusions provide a clearer understanding of why the dinosaurs disappeared. While volcanic activity did shape the Earth’s environment, it was not the immediate executioner. 



Instead, the researchers confirm that the Chicxulub impact, with its sudden and universal repercussions, was the ultimate cause of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-evolved-feathers-for-much-more-than-just-flying/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaurs</a>’ end.



“These findings help us understand the relative timing of events and confirm that the asteroid was the ultimate driver of the extinction event,” O’Connor said.



Armed with these insights, scientists can continue to refine their understanding of ancient Earth crises, shedding light on how life responds to abrupt environmental shifts - lessons that may prove valuable as our planet faces its own ecological challenges today.



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Dinosaur extinction was not caused by global volcanic eruptions 

A new study provides compelling evidence that the Chicxulub meteorite...

Ground squirrels are commonly associated with their diet of nuts, seeds, and grains, but a groundbreaking new study reveals an unexpected twist in their behavior.&nbsp;



Researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Davis</a>, have discovered that California ground squirrels also hunt, kill, and eat voles.&nbsp;



This surprising finding, published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10164-024-00832-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Ethology</a>, marks the first documented evidence of widespread carnivorous behavior among squirrels.



The findings fundamentally challenge long-held assumptions about California ground squirrels as primarily granivorous. Instead, the study suggests that these animals are opportunistic omnivores, capable of adjusting their diet to include meat when the opportunity arises.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-shocking-discovery-of-carnivorous-squirrels">A shocking discovery of carnivorous squirrels</h2>



The surprising observations occurred in 2024 during the 12th year of the Long-term Behavioral Ecology of California Ground Squirrels Project at Briones Regional Park in Contra Costa County.&nbsp;



Study lead author Jennifer E. Smith is an associate professor of biology at UW-Eau Claire who co-leads the project with Sonja Wild of UC Davis.&nbsp;



Over the course of June and July, the researchers recorded 74 interactions between squirrels and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prairie-voles-can-form-bonds-without-oxytocin/">voles</a>, 42% of which involved active hunting by the squirrels.



“This was shocking,” said Professor Smith. “We had never seen this behavior before. Squirrels are one of the most familiar animals to people. We see them right outside our windows; we interact with them regularly.”&nbsp;



“Yet here’s this never-before-encountered in science behavior that sheds light on the fact that there’s so much more to learn about the natural history of the world around us.”



Even for Wild, a seasoned observer of ground <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-affects-ground-squirrels-in-unexpected-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">squirrels</a>, the behavior was initially hard to believe.&nbsp;



When undergraduate students first reported seeing squirrels hunting voles, Wild admitted skepticism. “No, I’m not sure what you’re referring to,” she said, until she watched the video evidence.



“I could barely believe my eyes,” Wild recounted. “From then, we saw that behavior almost every day. Once we started looking, we saw it everywhere.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-opportunists-in-a-changing-landscape">Opportunists in a changing landscape</h2>



The study documented squirrels of all ages and genders hunting and consuming voles, often competing over the prey. This behavior peaked in early July, coinciding with a sudden increase in vole populations reported by citizen scientists on <a href="https://www.inaturalist.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iNaturalist</a>.&nbsp;



Interestingly, the researchers observed squirrels hunting only voles and no other mammals, suggesting that the behavior arose in response to the temporary abundance of this particular prey.



Wild emphasized the adaptability of California ground squirrels in the face of environmental changes.&nbsp;



“The fact that California ground squirrels are behaviorally flexible and can respond to changes in food availability might help them persist in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-learning-speed-keeping-pace-with-a-changing-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environments</a> rapidly changing due to the presence of humans.”



Smith echoed this sentiment, pointing to the broader trend of mammals adapting to human-altered landscapes.&nbsp;



“Many species, including the California ground squirrel, are incredible opportunists,” she said. “From raccoons and coyotes to spotted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/friendly-hyenas-more-likely-to-engage-in-mobbing-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hyenas</a> and humans, the flexibility these mammals apply to their hunting strategies helps them change and adapt with the human landscape.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-questions-for-future-research">Questions for future research</h2>



While the discovery sheds new light on ground squirrel behavior, it raises numerous questions about the ecological and evolutionary implications of their hunting habits. The researchers are particularly curious about how widespread this behavior is among other squirrel populations and whether it is learned or instinctual.



“Through this collaboration and the data coming in, we’re able to document this widespread behavior that we had no idea was going on,” Smith said. “Digital technology can inform the science, but there’s no replacement for going out there and witnessing the behavior because what animals are doing always surprises us.”



The team also plans to investigate whether vole hunting has any impact on squirrel reproduction, comparing data from this year to the previous decade.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-carnivorous-squirrels">Significance of carnivorous squirrels</h2>



This discovery of carnivorous behavior in California ground squirrels adds a fascinating layer to our understanding of a species we thought we knew well. It demonstrates not only the behavioral flexibility of these animals but also highlights the value of direct observation and collaboration in scientific research.



The findings suggest that even the most familiar animals can surprise us with behaviors that challenge established assumptions. As researchers prepare for next year’s field season, they remain eager to uncover what other secrets these seemingly ordinary squirrels might reveal.



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First evidence of carnivorous squirrels documented in California

Ground squirrels are commonly associated with their diet of nuts,...

A recent study highlights a critical challenge for coral reproduction in the face of climate change. Led by Professor Peter Mumby from The University of Queensland, the research found that corals must be within a few meters of each other to reproduce successfully.



This surprising discovery has significant implications for coral survival, as warming oceans and other climate impacts continue to decimate reefs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-in-coral-reproduction">Factors in coral reproduction</h2>



The research team measured the success of a natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-illuminates-fish-interactions-in-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral spawning</a> event in March this year. 



“In what came as a surprise, we saw that corals needed to be within 10 metres (32.8 feet) of one another, and preferably closer than that for fertilization to take place,” explained Professor Mumby.



The team’s findings revealed a stark reality. Fertilization rates averaged 30% when corals were very close to each other. However, this figure dropped to less than 10% at a separation of 10 meters (32.8 feet) and was virtually zero at distances beyond 20 meters (65.6 feet).



“We knew corals couldn’t be too far apart, but we found they need to be closer than we’d expected,” noted Professor Mumby.



“Climate change impacts like bleaching are killing and reducing the density of corals, so we’re concerned that individuals may end up too far apart to reproduce successfully.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-proximity-in-coral-reproduction">Importance of proximity in coral reproduction</h2>



The research team set up their experiment on a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-seeding-increases-resistance-to-extreme-heatwaves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reef</a> in Palau, Micronesia. They placed containers above 26 coral colonies during a spawning event, capturing eggs and allowing sperm from nearby corals to enter the containers.



“The containers captured some of each corals’ eggs and drifted to the surface where they followed the tide,” said Professor Mumby.



“Although the eggs could not escape, sperm could enter the container and fertilize the eggs. After an hour of drifting, the proportion of fertilized eggs was noted for each type of coral, along with the distance to similar established corals.”



The results demonstrated the importance of proximity among <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reefs-in-some-parts-of-the-world-actually-benefit-from-warming-el-nino-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">corals</a> for successful reproduction.



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



The findings from <a href="https://www.uq.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The University of Queensland</a> highlight how climate change exacerbates challenges for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/multivitamins-could-save-coral-reefs-from-climate-destruction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral populations</a>. Bleaching events and other stressors not only kill corals but also reduce their density, making reproduction increasingly difficult.



Dr. Christopher Doropoulos from <a href="https://www.csiro.au/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CSIRO</a>, a co-author of the study, emphasized the importance of coral reproduction for population resilience and evolution.



“In the future, we may need to help corals continue this key part of their lives,” said Dr. Doropoulos. “Understanding the importance of local neighbourhoods provides tangible targets for interventions like coral restoration.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-restoration-efforts-and-future-directions">Restoration efforts and future directions</h2>



Coral restoration emerges as a vital strategy to combat this reproductive challenge. 



“Ideally, the density of corals would be monitored at important locations and restoration carried out to return the density back to the levels required for successful reproduction,” Dr. Doropoulos added.



Professor Mumby highlighted the significance of ongoing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reefs-could-vanish-if-temperatures-continue-to-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">restoration</a> efforts. 



“Our work over the past 5 years on the Great Barrier Reef through the Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program is also helping to define these critical thresholds to help restoration practitioners set targets for density to help maintain coral populations,” said Professor Mumby.



The study, funded by the McCusker Foundation and the Australian Government’s Reef Restoration &amp; Adaptation Program, provides actionable insights for coral conservation. 



By identifying critical density thresholds, researchers hope to guide interventions that can enhance coral reproduction and resilience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hope-amidst-challenges">Hope amidst challenges</h2>



This research highlights how vulnerable coral populations are, and emphasizes the critical need for focused <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/60-percent-global-coral-reefs-face-bleaching-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> efforts.



Climate change, through factors like ocean warming and bleaching, is making coral survival increasingly difficult. However, studies like this provide essential insights for scientists and conservationists to better protect coral reefs. 



The key finding - that corals need to be close to each other for reproduction - can guide efforts to ensure they remain healthy and viable. If corals are not able to reproduce due to greater distances between them, it could lead to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-worlds-largest-coral-bleaching-event-is-now-underway/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decline of these vital ecosystems</a>.



Ensuring corals are sufficiently close for successful reproduction is therefore crucial in maintaining and preserving coral reefs for the future.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.2418314121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Corals count on nearby neighbors for successful reproduction

A recent study highlights a critical challenge for coral reproduction...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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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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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes Earth’s interconnected systems, and how this network is affected by rising temperatures.&nbsp;



During 2020, average global temperatures matched the hottest year on record. The hurricane season was also record-breaking, with many of the storms intensifying at extraordinary speeds. Hot water in the ocean is fuel for hurricanes. The satellite data shows that it's all one interconnected system showing how Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected.



According to NASA, dust swept up from Northern Africa plays a major role in the formation of hurricanes, and is also a key source of fertilization in the Amazon rainforest. As a result of<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-wasting-disease-is-fueled-by-climate-change/"> climate</a> change, dust plumes are expected to decline, which will have an effect on vegetation far away.&nbsp;



Images from Earth-observing satellites show how the world’s plant life is affected by natural disasters, fires, and deforestation. Satellites also reveal how widespread changes in vegetation impact waterways,&nbsp; the climate, air quality. Satellites communicate by using radio waves to send signals to the antennas on the Earth. "Earth From Space" is a groundbreaking two-hour special that reveals a spectacular new space-based vision of our planet. 



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu/">University of Miami</a> Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science explores how changes in water temperatures have affected tiger shark habitats and movements in the North Atlantic Ocean. The study reveals that rising temperatures have caused the sharks to shift toward the poles over the past 40 years.



“Tiger shark annual migrations have expanded poleward, paralleling rising water temperatures,” explained study lead author Neil Hammerschlag. “These results have consequences for tiger shark conservation, since shifts in their movements outside of marine protected areas may leave them more vulnerable to commercial fishing.”



The researchers analyzed nine years of tracking data from satellite-tagged tiger sharks, combined with four decades of conventional tag and recapture data provided by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Cooperative Shark Tagging Program.



The experts found that during the last decade of record heat, for every one-degree Celsius increase in water temperatures, tiger sharks migrated further poleward by over 400 kilometers. They also migrated two weeks earlier than usual to waters off the northeastern coast of the United States.



“Given their role as apex predators, these changes to tiger shark movements may alter predator-prey interactions, leading to ecological imbalances, and more frequent encounters with humans,” concluded Professor Hammerschlag.



Video Credit: University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

Today’s Video of the Day from the University of Miami...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> is focused on the melt ponds that emerge during the spring and summer on the Greenland Ice Sheet, which is the largest ice mass in the northern hemisphere.



"Melt ponds are vast pools of open water that form on both sea ice and ice sheets and are visible as turquoise-blue pools of water in this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image," says ESA.



"When snow and ice melts atop glaciers, water flows in channels and streams and collects in depressions on the surface. These melt ponds can speed up the melting of the surrounding ice since they greatly reduce the ice’s ability to reflect sunlight."



"This can create a positive feedback where an increasing number of melt ponds absorb more heat which causes ice cover to melt even faster."



According to ESA, Greenland has been hit with a late-season heatwave that began in early September. This caused the type of melt event that usually occurs in the middle of summer.



"In a recent paper published in Nature Climate Change, scientists found that major sea-level rise from the melting of the Greenland ice cap is now ‘inevitable’ even if the burning of fossil fuels were to halt overnight," says ESA. "Using satellite observations of Greenland ice loss and ice cap from 2000 to 2019, the team found the losses will lead to a minimum rise of 27 cm regardless of climate change."



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes a new map of Mars that is providing insight into the planet’s watery past. The map also reveals where future missions could safely land on Mars.&nbsp;



The map has been created over the last decade using observations of water-rich rocks and mineral deposits. The images were captured by ESA’s Mars Express and NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter.



"A big surprise is the prevalence of these minerals, with the map revealing hundreds of thousands of water-affected locations in the oldest parts of the planet," says ESA. "The new data will help answer exciting questions about Mars’ climate history, whether water was globally persistent or confined to short, intense episodes, and whether the conditions were ever suitable for life."



"Specifically, the map shows the locations and abundances of aqueous minerals. These are from rocks that have been chemically altered by the action of water in the past, and have typically been transformed into clays and salts."



According to John Carter of the Institut d’Astrophysique Spatiale (IAS), our collective understanding of Mars has been oversimplified. He explained that planetary scientists have tended to think that only a few types of clay minerals on Mars were created during its wet period, then as the water gradually dried up, salts were produced across the planet.



The new map shows that the composition of Mars is much more complicated than what we thought. For example, while many salts formed after Martian clays, there are some salts that are presumed to be older than some of the clays.&nbsp;



“The evolution from lots of water to no water is not as clear cut as we thought, the water didn’t just stop overnight. We see a huge diversity of geological contexts, so that no one process or simple timeline can explain the evolution of the mineralogy of Mars. That’s the first result of our study. The second is that if you exclude life processes on Earth, Mars exhibits a diversity of mineralogy in geological settings just as Earth does,” said Carter.



Video Credit: ESA



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The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes how cavefish adapted to a sedentary lifestyle over tens of thousands of years. 



The experts found that the muscle metabolism of cavefish has been genetically reprogrammed over time. As a result, the animals have experienced major changes in their morphology and behavior. Despite these changes, however, the cavefish remain healthy and fit.



The research may provide new clues about the evolutionary consequences of prolonged physical inactivity in humans.&nbsp;



“It’s no surprise that people are moving less and less as technology has advanced,” said Rohner. “With cavefish, we have a unique system where we can study what might happen if people remained couch potatoes over very, very long periods of time.”



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

[sendtonews key="vpljfR2VBX-2560867-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> some of the most incredible waves in the world, as seen by Landsat satellites.



"With more than 370,000 miles of coastline on Earth, there are plenty of places where epic waves build up, curl over, and hurtle toward the shore.- much to the thrill of surfers," says NASA. "There are some places where these waves are so magnificent that they can be seen from space."



"With the broad perspective of satellites, we can see how these iconic waves develop into the world’s tallest, longest, fastest, and heaviest."



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

[sendtonews key="MHyhtebibJ-2200368-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA...

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