Imagine a world where animals, like humans, form friendships that endure for years. A world where alliances are forged not through blood ties but through acts of mutual aid. 



This world exists all across Earth, but especially with a bird species called African starlings. They engage in reciprocal "helping" behavior, a concept once thought exclusive to humans.



A new study led by Alexis Earl, a former PhD student at <a href="https://www.columbia.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia University</a> in Professor Dustin Rubenstein’s lab, has cracked open the complex social world of these birds. The findings challenge long-held assumptions that kinship alone drives cooperative behavior.



Instead, the study reveals that starlings form lasting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sparrows-have-fewer-friends-as-they-age-just-like-most-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">friendships</a>, built on the expectation that help given today will be returned tomorrow.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-african-starlings-more-than-family-groups">African starlings: More than family groups</h2>



African starling societies are anything but simple. These aren’t just tight-knit family groups. They’re intricate networks of related and unrelated individuals, living together, helping each other, and occasionally switching roles. 



“Starling societies are not just simple families,” Rubenstein said. “They’re much more complex, containing a mixture of related and unrelated individuals that live together, much in the way that humans do.”



The research team observed these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-birds-are-at-great-risk-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> over 20 years at the Mpala Research Centre in Kenya. During 40 breeding seasons, they documented thousands of interactions among hundreds of birds. By collecting genetic data, they could trace familial ties and map out the social networks within each group.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds-help-non-relatives">Birds help non-relatives</h2>



The data revealed a striking pattern. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-extinctions-shatter-the-harmonious-balance-of-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Birds</a> weren’t just helping relatives, they were helping non-relatives too.



And not just once - over and over again. These birds were forming relationships based on reciprocity, where the expectation wasn’t immediate repayment but long-term support.



Rubenstein emphasized the significance of these findings. “Many of these birds are essentially forming friendships over time,” he said. 



But why help a non-relative when a relative is nearby? For the starlings, the answer appears to lie in building a network of allies, a safety net that extends beyond family bonds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-reversals-and-unexpected-alliances">Role reversals and unexpected alliances</h2>



Starlings don’t stick to one role. They don’t remain helpers or breeders for life. Instead, they switch roles throughout their lifetimes, a phenomenon rarely seen in cooperative breeders. 



The researchers found that individuals frequently moved between helper and breeder roles, sometimes even after raising their own offspring.



This role-switching opened the door for reciprocal helping. A bird that helped another during one breeding season might later become a breeder and receive help from that same individual. 



The study tracked 528 helper-breeder pairs, and in 142 pairs, the same two birds swapped roles and helped each other over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-friendships-form-through-reciprocal-helping">Bird friendships form through reciprocal helping</h2>



Kin selection is a well-established concept in evolutionary biology. Helping family members ensures the survival of shared genes. But the researchers observed a different kind of bond in starlings - one based on reciprocity, not kinship.



Resident males typically helped relatives. Immigrant males, however, helped both kin and non-kin. In fact, the researchers found that the helping rate for reciprocating pairs was 242 percent higher than for non-reciprocating pairs. 



Clearly, these birds were forming alliances that went beyond genetic ties.



But kinship wasn’t entirely irrelevant. Resident females rarely became breeders, so they had fewer opportunities for reciprocal helping. Immigrant females, on the other hand, often moved between helper and breeder roles, forming bonds with specific non-relatives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-of-long-term-data">Power of long-term data</h2>



The depth of this study lies in its duration. Twenty years of observations, over 12,000 recorded helping interactions and more than 500 individual birds. 



This long-term dataset allowed the researchers to detect subtle patterns that would have been invisible in a shorter study.



Rubenstein believes these findings have broader implications. “I think this kind of reciprocal helping behavior is likely going on in a lot of animal societies, and people just haven’t studied them long enough to be able to detect it,” he said.



Without such extensive data, the role of reciprocal helping might have remained hidden beneath the more obvious kin-based helping patterns. The study underscores the importance of sustained observation in uncovering the intricacies of animal behavior.



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



Why would a bird help a non-relative, even when a relative is nearby? The answer may lie in the unpredictability of life in the African savannah. Food scarcity. Predator threats. Uncertain breeding success.



In such an environment, forming bonds with non-relatives could serve as a form of insurance. Birds that help today may receive help tomorrow when conditions worsen. It’s a strategy that maximizes survival, not just for the individual but for the entire group.



The researchers observed that these reciprocal bonds sometimes lasted for years. And in some cases, they were even stronger than bonds formed through kinship. 



By maintaining these alliances, birds could increase their chances of receiving support during critical breeding periods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reciprocal-helping-in-other-birds">Reciprocal helping in other birds</h2>



This phenomenon isn’t limited to African starlings. Other bird species, such as green woodhoopoes and white-fronted bee-eaters, also exhibit reciprocal helping. However, the evidence of such behavior in non-relatives is rare.



The researchers argue that reciprocal helping may be more common than previously thought. The problem is that detecting it requires long-term observation - years, even decades. And that kind of data is difficult to obtain.



In the case of African starlings, the data revealed that reciprocal helping relationships sometimes persisted for multiple breeding seasons. Birds that helped each other one year often maintained that relationship, swapping roles and continuing to support one another over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-directions">Future research directions</h2>



What drives birds to choose specific partners for reciprocal helping? How do they recognize reliable allies? Are there cues - vocal signals, visual displays, prior interactions - that indicate trustworthiness?



The study raises more questions than it answers. The researchers plan to expand their observations to other species within the same environment. By doing so, they hope to determine whether reciprocal helping is a widespread strategy among cooperative breeders or a unique trait of African starlings.



Additionally, they aim to explore the impact of environmental factors on reciprocal helping. Does food scarcity strengthen these bonds? Do predator threats prompt birds to seek new allies?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-redefining-animal-cooperation">Redefining animal cooperation</h2>



The findings of this study challenge the conventional view that cooperative behavior in animals is driven solely by kin selection. While helping relatives remains a vital strategy, reciprocal helping may play an equally significant role in stabilizing social groups.



For the African starlings, reciprocal helping is a way to build alliances, secure support, and hedge against future uncertainties. It’s a strategy that mirrors human friendships - complex, enduring, and sometimes unpredictable.



“I think this kind of reciprocal helping behavior is likely going on in a lot of animal societies, and people just haven’t studied them long enough to be able to detect it,” Rubenstein said.



The study, published in Nature, provides a rare glimpse into the hidden world of animal friendships. It shows that even in the harsh and unpredictable environment of the African savannah, social bonds can form, endure, and evolve. 



And in the end, the birds that help today may just be the ones receiving help tomorrow.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08958-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Birds observed exhibiting many behaviors that resemble human friendships

Imagine a world where animals, like humans, form friendships that endure for years. A world where alliances are forged not through blood ties but through acts of mutual aid. This world exists all across Earth, but especially with a bird species called African starlings. They engage in reciprocal "helping" behavior, a concept once thought exclusive to humans. A new study led by Alexis Earl, a former PhD student at Columbia University in Professor Dustin Rubenstein’s lab, has cracked open the complex social world of these birds. The...

Every year on December 10th, people worldwide come together to observe International Animal Rights Day. 



This day, which coincides with the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, serves as a vital reminder that animals, like humans, deserve respect, compassion, and protection from harm. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-animal-rights">What are animal rights?</h2>



The concept of animal rights revolves around the belief that every animal, irrespective of species, deserves to live a life free from suffering, cruelty, and exploitation.



This belief stems from recognizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-animal-day-2024-building-a-legacy-of-compassion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> as sentient beings, capable of feelings and thoughts. They are more than just resources for humans; they hold intrinsic value. 



And that’s why International Animal Rights Day stresses the importance of protecting the rights of all creatures, regardless of the protective laws that different countries have in place.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-do-animals-have-emotions">Do animals have emotions?</h2>



Numerous studies have demonstrated that animals experience emotions similar to humans. For example:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Elephants&nbsp;mourn their dead and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asian-elephants-perform-a-special-burial-ritual-for-their-calves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exhibit signs of grief</a>.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-feel-our-emotions-through-our-heart-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dogs</a>&nbsp;show happiness, fear, and anxiety, often forming strong bonds with humans.</li>



<li>Crows&nbsp;and other birds demonstrate problem-solving abilities and even play, suggesting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crows-hold-grudges-for-up-to-17-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotional depth</a>.</li>
</ul>



Understanding these emotional capacities reinforces the ethical imperative to treat animals with compassion and respect. 



Recognizing that animals can feel joy, fear, and pain deepens the moral obligation to ensure their well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-you-can-support-animal-rights">How you can support animal rights</h2>



Promoting animal rights is not limited to activists or organizations; everyone can contribute meaningfully. Here are some actionable steps:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Choose cruelty-free products: Look for certifications like "Leaping Bunny" or "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cruelty-free-means/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cruelty-Free</a>" labels.</li>



<li>Donate or volunteer: Support animal welfare organizations or local shelters.</li>



<li>Advocate for laws: Push for stronger animal protection regulations.</li>



<li>Adopt or foster animals: Provide a loving home to animals in need by reaching out to local shelters, rescue organizations, or online platforms like Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet. These resources connect individuals with animals looking for safe, caring environments.</li>
</ul>



Every small action counts in building a world where animals are treated with dignity and care.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-education-a-powerful-tool-for-animal-rights">Education: A powerful tool for animal rights</h2>



Educational programs highlight issues like animal cruelty, habitat destruction, and species extinction. By informing people about the challenges animals face, education builds a foundation for advocacy.



Education helps individuals understand animals' sentience and their capacity for suffering. Empathy-driven lessons can lead to more compassionate attitudes and behavior toward animals.



Education also ties animal rights to broader environmental and ecological concerns, showing how protecting animal welfare contributes to a healthier planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interconnection-of-humans-and-animals">Interconnection of humans and animals</h2>



International Animal Rights Day celebrates both animal and <a href="https://www.un.org/en/about-us/universal-declaration-of-human-rights" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human rights</a>. This reminds us of the interconnectedness of life.



The mistreatment of animals also impacts humans and the environment, disrupting ecosystems and endangering biodiversity. Recognizing these connections, we must treat all living beings with dignity for a healthier planet and society.



Victories in the fight for animals, such as bans on animal testing for cosmetics in several countries, liberation of animals from circuses, and closure of inhumane puppy mills, are truly inspirational. These success stories demonstrate that our collective actions can ignite change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-international-animal-rights-day">International Animal Rights Day</h2>



International Animal Rights Day offers an opportunity to reflect on our commitments to animals. Here’s how you can participate:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Raise awareness: Organize or join events like marches or online campaigns.</li>



<li>Spread the message: Share educational content on social media using hashtags like #AnimalRights and #CompassionForAnimals.</li>



<li>Volunteer or donate: Support local shelters or animal welfare organizations.</li>



<li>Make ethical choices: Opt for a plant-based diet or reduce the use of animal products.</li>



<li>Engage in dialogue: Discuss animal rights with friends and family to promote a compassionate community.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-animal-rights">The future of animal rights</h2>



There's a spark of hope growing for the future of animal rights. Innovations such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-meat-and-dairy-alternatives-will-dramatically-transform-the-global-food-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lab-grown meat</a> and alternatives to animal testing are encouraging advancements.



However, there are still considerable challenges, like combating wildlife trafficking, protecting habitats, and ensuring the enforcement of animal protection laws. But remember, staying informed and engaged can help shape a brighter future for all beings.



International Animal Rights Day is an important reminder of our collective responsibility towards the lives of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-know-far-less-about-four-footed-animals-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> and their rights.



Recognizing animal rights, and taking action to support their welfare, paves the way for a compassionate world. So, let's use this day to inspire ongoing action for a future where all creatures can live in harmony.



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International Animal Rights Day 2024: Honoring animals with justice

Every year on December 10th, people worldwide come together to...

Have you ever wondered if crabs and lobsters felt pain or fear as they were being boiled alive before making it onto your dinner plate? 



Recent studies suggest that these creatures experience discomfort in ways we hadn't fully understood before.



Dr. Lynne Sneddon, a zoophysiologist at the <a href="https://www.gu.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Gothenburg</a>, believes it's time we reconsider how we treat these animals. 



"We need to find less painful ways to kill shellfish if we are to continue eating them. Because now we have scientific evidence that they both experience and react to pain," she says.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-crustaceans-the-basics">Understanding crustaceans -- the basics</h2>



Crustaceans have been <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bright-coloration-in-crayfish-does-not-serve-an-evolutionary-purpose/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">roaming the Earth</a> for an impressive span of over 500 million years. 



They first appeared during the Cambrian period, a time known for the "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grand-canyon-fossils-reveal-secrets-of-the-cambrian-explosion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cambrian Explosion</a>" when many major animal groups emerged. 



Early crustaceans already showcased the key features we recognize today, such as their hard <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shellfish-consumed-by-humans-are-ironically-more-resistant-to-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exoskeletons</a>, segmented bodies, and jointed limbs. 



This long evolutionary history has allowed them to diversify into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meet-melita-panda-the-black-and-white-crustacean-shrimp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">thousands of species</a>, adapting to a wide range of environments from the deepest parts of the oceans to freshwater rivers and even some terrestrial areas.



Crustaceans, such as crabs and lobsters, are more than just seafood delicacies. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-crabs-and-lobsters-have-emotions-and-feelings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">These fascinating creatures</a> boast a hard exoskeleton made of chitin, providing them with protection and support. 



With ten legs -- often featuring claws or pincers -- they navigate their environments with ease. 



Their bodies are segmented into the head, thorax, and abdomen, and they have specialized appendages for swimming, walking, or digging.



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-deep-sea-crustacean-species-discovered-in-the-bahamas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adaptable animals</a> can be found almost everywhere: from the deepest ocean trenches to freshwater rivers and even damp terrestrial spots. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crabs-pain-and-perception">Crabs, pain, and perception</h2>



Until now, the idea that crustaceans feel pain was mostly based on observational studies. 



Researchers noticed that when crabs and lobsters were exposed to potentially harmful stimuli -- like electric shocks or acids -- they would touch the affected area or try to avoid the danger in subsequent encounters. 



This behavior led many to believe they might be experiencing pain.



But the team at the University of Gothenburg took it a step further. PhD student Eleftherios Kasiouras led a study where they measured the activity in a shore crab's brain using EEG-style recordings. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/crabs_feel-pain_electrodes_shore-crab_Eleftherios-Kasiouras_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/crabs_feel-pain_electrodes_shore-crab_Eleftherios-Kasiouras_1s.webp" alt="Electrodes measuring brain activity were attached to a shore crab, which was then subjected to mechanical and chemical stimuli. Credit: Eleftherios Kasiouras" class="wp-image-1951623"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Electrodes measuring brain activity were attached to a shore crab, which was then subjected to mechanical and chemical stimuli. Credit: Eleftherios Kasiouras</figcaption></figure>



"We could see that the crab has some kind of pain receptors in its soft tissues, because we recorded an increase in brain activity when we applied a potentially painful chemical, a form of vinegar, to the crab's soft tissues. The same happened when we applied external pressure to several of the crab's body parts," he explains.



These findings suggest that shore crabs have a pain signaling system that sends messages to their brains when they experience harmful stimuli. 



Interestingly, the pain response was shorter and more intense with physical stress, while chemical stress produced a longer-lasting effect.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-if-crabs-feel-pain-what-about-lobsters">If crabs feel pain, what about lobsters?</h2>



Given that many crustaceans share similar structures and nervous systems, these results could extend beyond shore crabs. 



"It is a given that all animals need some kind of pain system to cope by avoiding danger. I don't think we need to test all species of crustaceans, as they have a similar structure and therefore similar nervous systems," Kasiouras explains.



"We can assume that shrimps, crayfish, and lobsters can also send external signals about painful stimuli to their brain which will process this information."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-crustaceans">Importance of crustaceans</h2>



Crustaceans play <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-did-billions-of-crabs-vanish-from-the-bering-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vital roles in their ecosystems</a>. Acting as both predators and prey, they help maintain the balance of marine and freshwater food webs.



For humans, they are a significant food source, contributing to economies worldwide. They're also valuable in scientific research, aiding studies on regeneration, development, and environmental health.



However, challenges like overfishing and habitat destruction <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crabs-are-losing-their-sense-of-smell-and-vanishing-due-to-ocean-acidification/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">threaten their populations</a>. This raises concerns about sustainability and the need for better practices to ensure these creatures thrive for future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reconsidering-how-we-handle-seafood">Reconsidering how we handle seafood</h2>



Currently, shellfish like prawns, lobsters, crabs, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-crayfish-atlas-offers-new-tools-for-conservation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crayfish aren't covered</a> by animal welfare legislation in the European Union. 



This means practices that might cause them pain are still legally acceptable. But with new evidence pointing to their ability to feel pain, there's a growing call to change how we treat these animals.



Dr. Sneddon emphasizes the need for change: "We need more research to find less painful ways to kill shellfish." 



If we continue to consume these creatures, it's crucial to ensure we're not causing unnecessary suffering.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-this-is-awful-but-what-can-we-do">This is awful, but what can we do?</h2>



The first step is acknowledging that these animals might experience pain similarly to how we do. 



With that understanding, industries and regulators can work towards implementing more humane methods of handling and killing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strawberry-claws-the-hermit-crab-that-sings-underwater/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crustaceans</a>. 



This could involve developing new technologies or techniques that minimize pain or distress.



Consumers also play a role. By supporting businesses that prioritize humane practices and advocating for better regulations, we can encourage a shift towards more ethical treatment of these animals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crabs-pain-and-human-compassion">Crabs, pain, and human compassion</h2>



As we learn more about the creatures we share our planet with, it's essential to adapt our behaviors accordingly. 



Knowing that crabs, lobsters, and other crustaceans can feel pain changes the game on how we should treat them, especially when it comes to cooking and handling. 



It's not just about following laws or guidelines -- it's about being mindful and compassionate in our everyday choices, treating sentient creatures with respect. 



By supporting humane practices and staying informed, we can help ensure that all crustaceans are treated with the respect they've earned by inhabiting our planet for over 500 million years.



As we move forward, both industries and individuals have a part to play. After all, how we treat the smallest of creatures often reflects our values as a society.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2079-7737/13/11/851" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biology</a>.



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Immediate ban on boiling crabs and lobsters called for after disturbing study

Have you ever wondered if crabs and lobsters felt pain...

When we think of testosterone-driven dominance, images of silverback gorillas pounding their chests or executives battling for boardroom supremacy may come to mind. 



Traditionally, the narrative of aggression and dominance has belonged to males. But in the dry savannahs of southern Africa, one species flips the script. Here, meerkats females are the competitive and dominant sex due to their testosterone.



Most meerkat mobs, small social groups of these mongoose relatives, are led by a dominant female. She commands with an iron paw - growling, biting, and shoving to maintain order.



This leadership style ensures that subordinates not only obey but also help raise her pups. Now, a recent study reveals that the dominant female’s reign comes at a price, particularly for her offspring.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testosterone-levels-in-meerkat-queens">Testosterone levels in meerkat queens</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/decoding-secret-language-of-meerkats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Meerkat</a> queens owe their dominance to elevated levels of testosterone. During pregnancy, their testosterone can double, surpassing that of their male counterparts. 



This hormonal surge strengthens the matriarch’s competitive edge, enabling her to maintain control. However, this advantage comes with a trade-off.



"While this chemical boost gives her a competitive edge and helps her keep the upper hand, it can also take a toll on the health of her offspring," noted <a href="https://duke.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Duke University</a>’s Christine Drea, co-author of the new study.



The research sheds light on the impact of elevated testosterone levels on meerkat pups. Conducted at the Kuruman River Reserve in South Africa’s Kalahari Desert, the study examined 195 meerkats across juvenile and adult stages.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-testosterone-impacts-meerkat-health">High testosterone impacts meerkat health</h2>



The researchers analyzed the droppings of meerkat pups for signs of parasitic infections, including tapeworm eggs. 



They discovered that pups born to dominant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/female-birds-commit-to-caring-for-young-males-abandon-family-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">females</a>, exposed to heightened testosterone levels in the womb, carried more gut parasites than those of subordinate females.



To confirm the role of maternal testosterone, the team administered a medication to some pregnant dominant females. 



This treatment reduced the effects of testosterone during their third trimester. The results were striking: pups from these treated mothers exhibited stronger immune responses and fewer parasites.



Blood tests revealed that these pups had enhanced natural defenses against bacterial infections. Additionally, their chances of surviving past their first year significantly improved. 



"The offspring from moms whose androgens were blocked actually survive significantly longer," Drea noted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testosterone-and-immune-health">Testosterone and immune health</h2>



This study provides the first evidence in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/terror-bird-phorusrhacid-discovery-was-largest-meat-eating-bird-of-its-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mammals</a> that elevated prenatal testosterone can weaken immune function. 



The impact was most evident in juvenile meerkats, with the health disparities diminishing as the animals matured.



"There's a health trade-off with testosterone," Drea explained. "It’s actually having an effect on survivorship when the animals are the most vulnerable."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-faced-by-wild-animals">Challenges faced by wild animals</h2>



The findings are part of a broader effort to understand how animals cope with infections in the wild. 



Unlike the controlled environment of a laboratory, wild meerkats face a variety of challenges, including social status, hormones, and environmental stressors.



"By studying wild meerkats, we can explore how real-world conditions — factors like social status, hormones, and environmental stressors — interact to influence immune function," said study co-author Kendra Smyth-Kabay, a former graduate student.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meerkat-dominance-beyond-testosterone">Meerkat dominance beyond testosterone</h2>



Meerkat queens do not <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/octopuses-could-dominate-earth-if-humans-vanish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rise to power</a> through sheer chance. These matriarchs typically inherit their position after the previous leader dies or is ousted.



Once in charge, they exert strict control over breeding within their groups. Subordinate females are often prevented from reproducing, either through physical aggression or by hormonal suppression caused by the dominant female’s presence.



This social structure ensures that the queen’s pups receive the majority of the group’s care and resources. Meerkat queens also have an uncanny ability to recognize and expel potential threats to their reign, including older offspring that may challenge their authority. 



Interestingly, their leadership style often involves collaboration as much as it does competition. They rely on the support of loyal subordinates to maintain their dominance and rear their young.



The lifespan of a meerkat queen can vary, but those who maintain their dominance often live longer than subordinates, benefiting from better access to food and protection from predators. 



However, the constant stress of defending their position can take a toll, making their reign both a privilege and a burden.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-balance-of-power">A balance of power</h2>



The study highlights the trade-offs in meerkat society. Dominant females gain reproductive success and control, but their pups bear the burden of weakened immunity. These findings provide a glimpse into the complex interplay of hormones, social hierarchy, and health in the animal kingdom.



As researchers continue to examine these dynamics, the fierce matriarchy of meerkats offers valuable insights into the cost of dominance - particularly the role of testosterone in shaping their leadership and its impact on offspring health.



Despite their apparent power, even queens face the consequences of their reign.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ece3.70600" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology and Evolution</a>.



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Meerkat queens have high testosterone, and their pups pay a price

When we think of testosterone-driven dominance, images of silverback gorillas...

Freshwater fish populations near the poles are outperforming their equatorial counterparts due to climate change. 



Warming temperatures are creating new habitats at the poleward edges of their ranges, enabling large-bodied migratory species such as Atlantic salmon to thrive.



In a recent study, researchers from the University of Bristol analyzed a dataset that included over 10,000 time series and more than 600 freshwater fish species. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-are-fish-responding-to-climate-change">How are fish responding to climate change?</h2>



The research highlights a crucial aspect of how animals are responding to climate change, which has driven broad-scale distribution shifts in marine and terrestrial species. 



However, the responses of freshwater species have remained less explored.



"Understanding how the population abundance of freshwater species has responded climatic warming over recent decades is important for predicting how they are likely to be impacted by future conditions," wrote the study authors. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-driven-shift-in-fish-habitats">Climate-driven shift in fish habitats</h2>



"A common <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-oceans-seas-lakes-are-losing-their-ability-to-support-most-types-of-fish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological response</a> to climatic warming in marine and terrestrial habitats is that populations are increasing at the poleward side of species ranges, as new environments are generated, and populations are declining at the equatorward side of species ranges, as conditions become too warm," explained study co-author Professor Martin Genner.



Using a multicontinental database, the researchers linked riverine fish population abundance data from 1958 to 2019 with temperature records. 



The results showed that across sampled locations, water temperatures increased by an average of 0.21 °C (0.38 °F) per decade. This warming aligns with population trends predicted by climate models, particularly in longer time series spanning over 30 years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-species-benefiting-from-warming-waters">Species benefiting from warming waters</h2>



The study found that fish species with specific traits - larger body sizes, higher trophic levels, river-to-sea migratory behaviors, and widespread distributions - exhibited population growth in response to a warming climate.



Examples include brown trout, European perch, and northern pike. These positive trends were more pronounced in cooler, higher-altitude environments, where warming temperatures create favorable conditions.



"These findings indicate that projected future warming will likely lead to widespread shifts in riverine community structure, including abundance declines at the trailing edge of species distributions," noted Professor Genner.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-beyond-climate-change">Looking beyond climate change</h2>



While climate change is a significant factor, the researchers aim to assess its relative importance compared to other stressors, such as pollution, habitat modification, and fisheries. Understanding these interactions could be key to developing effective conservation strategies.



"Our study has shown how warming waters are impacting freshwater river fishes, that are both rich in biodiversity and are traditionally important to cultures across the world," said Professor Genner.



"We hope that shining a light on how climate change can affect freshwater fishes will lead to positive actions to enable their conservation and sustainable use."



Professor Genner added that we need to learn more about how the impacts of climate change can be lessened through conservation strategies, such as habitat restoration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-ecosystems-from-climate-change">Protecting ecosystems from climate change</h2>



This research highlights the urgency of addressing climate change’s effects on freshwater fish and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aquaculture-impacts-wild-fish-much-more-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine ecosystems</a>. 



By identifying species and regions most vulnerable to warming, policymakers and conservationists can prioritize actions to preserve biodiversity and maintain the cultural and ecological roles of freshwater fish. 



Habitat restoration and sustainable management practices may play a critical role in mitigating the impacts of a warming world on these vital ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polar-freshwater-fish">Polar freshwater fish</h2>



Polar freshwater fish are uniquely adapted to survive in some of the harshest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-illuminates-fish-interactions-in-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aquatic environments</a> on Earth.



Species like Arctic char, whitefish, and grayling thrive in cold waters, often below 4°C, where oxygen levels remain high and competition is relatively low compared to temperate zones. These fish exhibit specialized physiological traits, such as antifreeze proteins in their blood, which prevent ice crystals from forming and damaging their tissues.



In addition to their physiological adaptations, many polar freshwater fish display behavioral traits that enhance survival. 



For instance, Arctic char can switch between freshwater and saltwater habitats seasonally, optimizing food availability and breeding success. These migratory behaviors also make them key indicators of ecosystem health, as their movements are closely tied to water temperature and ice cover.



Moreover, polar regions often host fewer species compared to more temperate zones, but these ecosystems are vital for global biodiversity. 



The limited number of species creates a fragile food web, where climate-driven changes in fish populations can have cascading effects on predators like birds and mammals, as well as on human communities that rely on these fish for sustenance and cultural practices.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2410355121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Climate change is pushing freshwater fish toward the poles

Freshwater fish populations near the poles are outperforming their equatorial...

Since 1970, over half of all sharks and rays have vanished from our oceans, according to a new study. This alarming decline in sharks and rays stems primarily from overfishing, which has pushed these ancient and ecologically critical species to the brink. 



However, researchers offer hope with clear strategies to halt further losses and support recovery efforts.



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



The research highlights that overfishing has caused a 50% decline in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deepwater-desperation-the-race-to-save-sharks-and-rays/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chondrichthyan fishes</a> - a group comprising sharks, rays, and chimeras. This diverse group of over 1,199 different species faces increasing threats despite advances in our understanding of these creatures.



"In addition to intentional targeting and bycatch, the threat to sharks is compounded by habitat degradation, climate change, and pollution," noted Professor Colin Simpfendorfer from <a href="https://www.jcu.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Cook University</a> in Australia.



"The result is over one-third of chondrichthyans now face the threat of extinction."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sharks-and-rays-guardians-of-aquatic-ecosystems">Sharks and rays: Guardians of aquatic ecosystems</h2>



The disappearance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unexpected-discovery-large-sharks-are-hunting-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> and rays threatens the balance of aquatic ecosystems worldwide. 



Lead author Professor Nicholas Dulvy from <a href="https://www.sfu.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Simon Fraser University</a> in Canada notes that population declines began in rivers, estuaries, and coastal waters before spreading to open oceans and deep seas. These marine creatures play vital roles in their environments. 



"Sharks and rays are important predators, and their decline disrupts food webs throughout the ocean," said Dr. Nathan Pacoureau from the European Institute for Marine Studies at <a href="https://brest-universite.fr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brest University</a>, France.



"Larger wide-ranging species connect ecosystems. For example, reef sharks transfer nutrients from deeper waters to coral reefs, helping to sustain those ecosystems. Rays are important foraging animals that mix and oxygenate sediments, influencing marine productivity and carbon storage," explained Pacoureau.



Without these keystone species, aquatic ecosystems could face severe disruption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-overfishing-on-sharks">Impacts of overfishing on sharks</h2>



Overfishing - the practice of catching fish faster than they can reproduce - remains the leading driver of shark and ray declines.



The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (<a href="https://www.fao.org/home/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNFAO</a>) reports that one-third of the world’s fisheries are operating beyond sustainable limits, and the number of overfished stocks has tripled in the last 50 years.



Bycatch, the unintended capture of non-target species, exacerbates the crisis. Sharks and rays frequently end up as unintended victims in nets meant for other fish, which compounds their population losses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recovery-from-overfishing">Recovery from overfishing</h2>



Despite these challenges, the solutions for addressing the decline are straightforward. 



"Nations can reduce the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reef-sharks-are-abandoning-their-homes-due-to-ocean-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinction risk</a> by lowering fishing pressure to sustainable levels, strengthening fisheries governance, and eliminating harmful subsidies," said Professor Simpfendorfer.



Some regions have already made progress. Countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States, and parts of Europe and South Africa have implemented science-based limits on fishing catches. 



These measures include efforts to reduce bycatch and protect critical habitats, thus offering a glimmer of hope for chondrichthyan recovery.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-sharks-and-rays-from-overfishing">Protecting sharks and rays from overfishing</h2>



The study highlights the urgency of collective action to safeguard these ancient species. Science-driven policies and international cooperation are vital to ensuring sharks and rays do not slip further toward extinction. 



By addressing overfishing and habitat degradation for sharks, humanity can help restore balance to marine ecosystems and protect these vital guardians of the ocean.



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



Sharks and rays belong to the group of cartilaginous fishes, known scientifically as Chondrichthyes. 



Unlike bony fishes, their skeletons consist entirely of cartilage, making them lighter and more flexible. This evolutionary adaptation has helped them dominate aquatic ecosystems for over 400 million years.



Sharks, ranging from the tiny dwarf lantern shark to the massive whale shark, exhibit incredible diversity. Rays, their flat-bodied relatives, thrive in environments from shallow waters to the deep ocean floors.



Their unique physiology, including electrosensory systems, allows them to detect prey hidden under sand or at great distances from them.



Reproductive strategies among these species are equally fascinating. Some, like the great white shark, give birth to live young, while others, such as skates, lay egg cases commonly called "mermaids' purses." These long gestation periods and low offspring numbers make them highly vulnerable to overfishing and habitat changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-significance-in-coastal-communities">Cultural significance in coastal communities </h2>



Beyond their ecological importance, sharks and rays hold significant cultural importance in many coastal communities around the world, often symbolizing power, protection, and the balance of nature.



Sharks and rays are also a major component of traditional diets in these communities, highlighting the need to balance conservation with livelihoods that are dependent on sustainable fishing.



The research was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adn1477">Science</a>.



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Overfishing has caused a 50% decline in sharks and rays

Since 1970, over half of all sharks and rays have...

Researchers have recently revealed new insights into how brittle stars can reversibly adjust the pliability of their tissues. This discovery could ultimately pave the way for innovative biomaterials with applications in human health.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-materials-for-regenerative-medicine-nbsp">New materials for regenerative medicine&nbsp;</h2>



The study, led by Denis Jacob Machado, an assistant professor at the <a href="https://www.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill</a>, and Vladimir Mashanov, staff scientist at the <a href="https://school.wakehealth.edu/research/institutes-and-centers/wake-forest-institute-for-regenerative-medicine" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine</a>, focuses on mutable collagenous tissue (MCT) and the molecular mechanisms enabling these transformations.



The findings, detailed in an article published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s12864-024-10926-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMC Genomics</a>, reveal 16 potential MCT modulator genes.&nbsp;



This work marks a significant step toward understanding how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-stars-may-actually-be-walking-heads-with-no-bodies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">echinoderms</a> rapidly and dramatically modify their collagenous tissue, a process that could inspire new materials for regenerative medicine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-brittle-stars-respond-to-threats">How brittle stars respond to threats</h2>



The researchers utilized cutting-edge methods, including transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and RNA sequencing, to study Ophiomastix wendtii, a brittle star known for its remarkable ability to alter its tissue properties.&nbsp;



“We’re uncovering the precise instructions that DNA sends to the cell - what it’s saying, when it’s saying it, and in what quantities,” said Machado. He compared this process to decoding commands from a ship’s captain that direct the crew to accomplish specific tasks.



This advanced analysis provides insights into how echinoderms such as brittle stars adapt their tissues to environmental stressors.&nbsp;



These animals can shed body parts or modify tissue rigidity in response to threats, offering a fascinating model for studying MCT and its potential biomedical applications.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brittle-stars-and-tissue-adaptation">Brittle stars and tissue adaptation</h2>



Echinoderms like brittle stars and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-cucumbers-protect-coral-reefs-from-disease-and-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea cucumbers</a> possess a unique ability to rapidly adapt their collagenous tissues. This capability allows them to detach limbs to escape predators or withstand environmental changes.&nbsp;



The research team focused on juxtaligamental cells (JLCs), which play a critical role in controlling MCT. By comparing tissue regions rich in JLCs to areas without them, the experts identified key genomic relationships and isolated the role of these cells in regulating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-dinosaur-collagen-survived-the-test-of-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">collagen</a> transformations.



The study highlights how brittle stars, as non-model organisms, present unique challenges for research. They lack the standardized protocols available for mice and other common model organisms, requiring researchers to develop innovative approaches.&nbsp;



Despite these hurdles, their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brittle-stars-have-no-brain-but-still-manage-to-learn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unique biology</a> makes them an ideal subject for studying tissue adaptability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paving-the-way-for-smart-biomaterials">Paving the way for smart biomaterials</h2>



One of the study’s most exciting outcomes is its potential to inspire the development of dynamic biomaterials.&nbsp;



The researchers have already filed a provisional patent for a collagen-based biomaterial capable of changing its pliability. Machado envisions this material as a “collagen matrix that can change its pliability to become as soft or rigid as we want.”&nbsp;



Such a material could revolutionize medicine, serving as a rapid-response surgical adhesive or even “gelatinous origami” to replace traditional stents.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-directions">Future research directions</h2>



The research revealed 16 candidate genes that regulate MCT, offering a roadmap for future investigations.&nbsp;



Using advanced techniques like in situ hybridization (ISH) and RNA interference (RNAi), the team plans to explore how turning off these genes affects tissue pliability.&nbsp;



“Confirming the role of the identified candidate genes in controlling MCT tensile strength will open up a wide range of new possibilities for both fundamental biology and biomedicine,” the researchers said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gene-expression-in-various-tissues">Gene expression in various tissues</h2>



The study represents a fusion of disciplines, combining bioinformatics, advanced microscopy, and biological experimentation.&nbsp;



The team, which includes experts from UNC Charlotte and Wake Forest, worked collaboratively to design experiments and analyze data. First author Reyhaneh Nouri, a Ph.D. student in UNC Charlotte's Department of Bioinformatics and Genomics, played a key role in the project.



The researchers examined gene expression in different tissue regions of the brittle star, focusing on the inner arm core, which is rich in JLCs. They compared these findings to regions like the stomach, which lacks JLCs, providing a detailed map of how specific genes influence tissue adaptation.&nbsp;



The study offers the first attempt to identify echinoderm-specific MCT genes using advanced sequencing and gene expression analysis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transforming-medicine-with-biomaterials">Transforming medicine with biomaterials</h2>



The implications of this research extend far beyond brittle star biology. Understanding the molecular mechanisms behind MCT could lead to transformative advancements in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.&nbsp;



The potential applications include faster <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healing-chronic-wounds-with-gold-and-red-wine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wound healing</a>, advanced surgical adhesives, and innovative materials for organ repair.



The researchers emphasized the importance of their findings for future innovation.&nbsp;



They noted that the evolution and molecular mechanisms of the echinoderm MCT could inform the design of new collagen-based biomaterials with dynamic, tunable mechanical properties for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-vision-for-the-future">A vision for the future</h2>



This study lays the groundwork for future research into MCT and its regulation. By identifying the genes responsible for tissue pliability, the team aims to develop biomaterials that can adapt to different conditions, offering unprecedented flexibility and functionality in medical applications.



“It starts with you daring to look into something completely new without knowing if it’s going to work or not,” said Machado, highlighting the innovative spirit driving their work.&nbsp;



With continued research and collaboration, these findings could revolutionize medicine, unlocking new possibilities for treating injuries, repairing tissues, and advancing human health.



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Secrets of brittle star tissue could transform regenerative medicine

Researchers have recently revealed new insights into how brittle stars...

"Man's best friend" takes on a new meaning in the field of medicine. Recent research findings suggest that dogs can effectively sniff out bladder cancer in other canines.



This discovery comes from a study conducted by researchers at the University of Bristol.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-training-dogs-for-cancer-detection">Training dogs for cancer detection</h2>



Three specially trained dogs - Kizzy, a chocolate working cocker spaniel; Jobi, a black cocker spaniel; and Marlow, a black Labrador - played a central role in the study.



The dogs had prior experience detecting human bladder and prostate cancers and were retrained by Medical Detection Dogs (MDD) to identify canine urothelial carcinoma (UC), a common type of bladder cancer in dogs.



The training process involved teaching the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-dog-day-honoring-mans-best-friend/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> to sniff urine samples attached to metal stands in MDD’s training room. The dogs displayed indication behaviors - such as sitting, staring, or standing - to signal cancer-positive samples.



Rewards included food and play, which kept the training engaging for these canines.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-sniffing-out-cancer">Dogs sniffing out cancer</h2>



The findings reveal that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-and-dogs-were-bonding-much-earlier-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">canine</a> bladder cancer emits a distinct smell that trained dogs can detect non-invasively. 



The detection rate reached up to 90% sensitivity (the rate at which the dogs correctly identified cancer-positive samples), and up to 95% specificity, meaning they accurately ignored cancer-free samples. 



These results highlight the remarkable accuracy of this method.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-of-traditional-diagnosis">Challenges of traditional diagnosis</h2>



Bladder cancer accounts for nearly 2% of all reported canine cancers, with about one in four dogs developing cancer in their lifetime. 



Urothelial carcinoma often mimics symptoms of other urinary tract disorders, like infections or bladder stones, making diagnosis challenging. 



Additionally, traditional diagnostic methods like urine sampling via cystocentesis carry risks, such as tumor seeding, and definitive diagnosis requires invasive biopsy procedures. 



These factors can delay treatment, leaving the disease to progress.



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



"We are delighted that [the dogs] were so successful at finding the odor of bladder cancer as it is a difficult disease to diagnose using traditional methods and unpleasant and intrusive for canine patients," noted Claire Guest, CEO and Co-Founder of Medical Detection Dogs.



 "There is great potential value in a new, early, cheap, rapid, and non-invasive diagnostic test which could lead to opportunities for earlier intervention."



The study also suggests that these trained <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chernobyl-dogs-are-rapidly-evolving-in-strange-ways-due-to-nuclear-radiation-exposure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> could provide a faster, more comfortable alternative to traditional diagnostics. 



This could enable earlier treatment for affected dogs, improving outcomes and quality of life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-are-highly-effective-for-cancer-diagnosis">Dogs are highly effective for cancer diagnosis</h2>



"This study adds to the growing body of evidence which shows dogs are highly effective at detecting odors from changes linked to health in both humans and canines," noted Dr. Nicola Rooney from <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/vet-school/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bristol Veterinary School</a>.



"The dogs involved with the study demonstrated a sensitivity superior to cytology of a free catch sample and similar to the BRAF test," added Isabelle Desmas-Bazelle, who led the study at <a href="https://www.vetspecialists.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Davies Veterinary Specialists</a>.



It suggests cancer cells have a unique odor pattern, possibly via secretion of volatile organic chemicals. 



"This exciting research could lead to the development of an electronic nose as an additional diagnostic test for UC," added Desmas-Bazelle, highlighting the potential for technological advancements. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-non-invasive-cancer-detection">Non-invasive cancer detection</h2>



This study identifies the potential of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-feel-our-emotions-through-our-heart-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> as more than companions. Their exceptional olfactory abilities could transform veterinary diagnostics.



While traditional methods remain crucial, integrating canine detection and advancements like electronic noses could revolutionize how we diagnose and treat diseases like urothelial carcinoma in dogs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-and-disease-detection">Dogs and disease detection</h2>



Dogs have shown incredible potential in detecting various diseases apart from cancer.



For instance, trained dogs can identify diabetes by sensing hypoglycemic episodes through changes in a person’s scent. Similarly, they can detect the presence of malaria by sniffing worn socks from infected individuals. 



Dogs have also demonstrated the ability to identify neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and certain bacterial infections like Clostridium difficile.



These skills rely on their acute olfactory senses, which can detect volatile organic compounds associated with different diseases. 



Their application in real-world medical diagnostics is growing, and provides a non-invasive and rapid method to detect conditions that often require complex testing.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://veterinaryoncology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s44356-024-00012-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Veterinary Oncology</a>.



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Trained dogs can detect cancer in other dogs, as well as in people

"Man's best friend" takes on a new meaning in the...

At the age of 74, parenting can be quite the adventure. But for one venerable albatross named Wisdom, it seems the journey is just beginning anew. 



Surprisingly, Wisdom is now in the process of becoming a mother yet again - a feat that sets her apart as the oldest known bird in the world to breed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-windy-home-of-the-oldest-bird">Windy home of the oldest bird</h2>



The scene takes place on Midway Atoll, near Hawaii. Each year, this location brims with the arrival of multitudes of spectacular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-are-moving-north-and-breeding-earlier-in-a-changing-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seabirds</a> known as Laysan albatrosses.



Among them has been Wisdom, returning annually to nest. For decades, she was inseparable from her partner. They were monogamous, much like the rest of their kind. Over the course of her life, Wisdom has laid over 50 eggs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wisdom-s-new-lease-on-life">Wisdom's new lease on life</h2>



In an unexpected turn of events, Wisdom's partner sadly vanished. Unfazed by this change, the elderly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strong-winds-make-it-difficult-for-albatrosses-to-feed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">albatross</a> adapted and started to court other males. 



Wisdom's current visit to the atoll was marked by her laying another egg, and she has a new partner with whom to share the incubation duties.



"We are optimistic that the egg will hatch," expressed Jonathan Plissner, a supervisory wildlife biologist at <a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/midway-atoll" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wisdom-the-world-s-oldest-breeding-bird">Wisdom: The world's oldest breeding bird</h2>



This new chapter in Wisdom's life was beautifully captured in photographs and video by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.



They depict the excited parents-to-be, seemingly communicating with their egg, before the male takes over incubation duty.



Tagged and identified back in 1956 when she was laying her first egg at the refuge, Wisdom was no less than five years old at the time - the age at which Laysan albatrosses reach sexual maturity.



Taking these facts into account, it is clear that Wisdom is at least 74 years old.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-incredible-life-cycle-of-albatrosses">Incredible life cycle of albatrosses</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/albatrosses-use-infrasound-for-long-distance-navigation-study-reveals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Albatrosses</a> have long been central to seafaring lore, and were famously featured in Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner."



These majestic birds symbolize freedom, endurance, and the mysterious connection between nature and sailors. Today, the story of Wisdom, the world’s oldest known wild bird, adds a modern layer to their legendary status.



At over 70 years old, Wisdom continues to defy the odds, returning each year to raise chicks and inspire awe. Her resilience highlights the incredible life cycle of albatrosses and serves as a reminder of the need to protect these iconic birds and their ocean habitats for future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-love-and-challenges-of-albatrosses">Life, love, and challenges of albatrosses</h2>



Laysan albatrosses are named after Laysan Island, one of their primary nesting sites within the Hawaiian Archipelago.



These birds exhibit incredible site fidelity, often returning to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oldest-known-wild-albatross-mother/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">breed</a> at the exact location where they were hatched. The species plays a critical role in the marine ecosystem, acting as indicators of ocean health due to their reliance on marine food sources like squid and fish.



These albatrosses are known for their elaborate courtship dances, which involve a series of coordinated movements, calls, and gestures. The ritual helps strengthen the bond between mating pairs. 



Laysan albatrosses also possess a unique adaptation - a specialized gland located above their eyes that helps them excrete excess salt from the seawater they drink, thus enabling them to thrive in their marine habitat.



Despite their resilience, Laysan albatross populations face threats from plastic pollution, longline fishing, and invasive predators at nesting sites. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-extinctions-shatter-the-harmonious-balance-of-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Conservation efforts</a>, such as habitat restoration and reducing bycatch in fishing operations, are crucial for ensuring their survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extraordinary-journeys-of-albatrosses">Extraordinary journeys of albatrosses</h2>



Laysan albatrosses are quite remarkable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shrinking-sea-ice-makes-it-harder-for-seabirds-to-find-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creatures</a>. They have a wingspan stretching up to 80 inches and can travel over 930 miles in search of food.



Not only that, there are over a dozen species of albatross spanning locations from the Southern Hemisphere to the North Pacific Ocean.



Birds' lifespans can differ considerably based on their species. The smaller ones tend to reach only two to three years in age, whereas seabirds such as albatrosses and penguins can live up to 40 or 50 years.



Wisdom's age, however, surpasses all of these, making her an exceptional figure in the natural world.



Image Credit: Keegan Rankin/USFWS



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World’s oldest wild bird is expecting again at 74

At the age of 74, parenting can be quite the...

Friendships are a cornerstone of human social dynamics, often influenced by shared personalities and mutual interests. However, how animals like buffalos choose their companions remains less understood. 



A new study by researchers at City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) sheds light on this question. The team examined a unique free-ranging feral population of water buffalo on Lantau Island in Hong Kong.



The findings reveal that spatial proximity is a strong indicator of buffalo friendships, influenced by certain shared personality traits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-buffalo-friendships-and-personalities">Buffalo friendships and personalities</h2>



"Our research provides evidence that friendships among water <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-animal-day-2024-building-a-legacy-of-compassion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">buffalo</a> can form among individuals with similar behaviors. These findings offer valuable insights into the evolution of friendships," said Dr. Debottam Bhattacharjee, a Postdoc in CityUHK’s <a href="https://www.cityu.edu.hk/ph/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health</a>.



"Personalities and social relationships will be potentially important for understanding how buffalo use their habitats during different seasons (wet and dry) of the year with fluctuating food resources."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-buffalo-friends-and-spatial-associations">Buffalo friends and spatial associations </h2>



The study reveals that female buffalo with similar personalities tend to exhibit higher spatial associations. These individuals spend more time in close proximity during activities like foraging, collective movement, and resting.



The observational studies focused on female buffalo who displayed similar personality traits. These traits, described as repeatable behavioral variables, included social tension, vigilance, and general dominance.



Professor Alan McElligott, a co-author of the study and an expert on animal behavior and welfare at CityUHK, explained how these traits were assessed:



<ul>
<li>Social tension:&nbsp;How buffalo approached and avoided each other.</li>



<li>Vigilance:&nbsp;How they sat and moved around.</li>



<li>General dominance:&nbsp;How they responded to others in the herd.</li>
</ul>



These traits were predictive of the duration and quality of their interactions, offering significant insights into the formation and maintenance of buffalo <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-friendships-social-bonds-evolve-over-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">friendships</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-animal-well-being">Improving animal well-being</h2>



The implications of this research extend beyond academic curiosity. Studies have shown that strong social associations correlate with better health, well-being, and survival rates. 



This study contributes to the growing body of evidence that human-like friendships can occur in various species. Like human relationships, these animal friendships can be stable, enduring, and transcend kinship bonds.



The researchers emphasize the importance of studying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/old-and-wise-animals-are-essential-for-the-survival-of-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social bonds</a> in feral buffalo for two reasons. 



First, previous research - mostly conducted in captivity - has highlighted buffalo’s social complexity, marked by affiliated behaviors and dominance hierarchies.



Second, understanding these behaviors in natural settings provides valuable insights for improving the welfare and health of buffalo populations.



"Moreover, understanding social behaviors and friendships of group living animals like buffalo improves welfare with broader implications for maintaining optimal health of those within the wider population," noted Professor Kate Flay from CityUHK’s <a href="https://www.cityu.edu.hk/pg/department/vcs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences</a>.



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



The study highlights the importance of investigating preferential social bonds among feral buffalo. According to the CityUHK scientists, this research has implications for conservation and welfare strategies.



By examining how close social relationships affect buffalo populations, researchers can develop more sustainable approaches to animal welfare and conservation, especially for species facing threats.



The findings also suggest that these insights might apply to other species, paving the way for a deeper understanding of social dynamics in animals.



The major takeaway? Friendships in the animal kingdom are not just fascinating but also crucial for survival and ecological balance. The buffalo of Lantau Island are more than just majestic creatures; they are a testament to the power of connection in the wild.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-buffalo-friendships">Benefits of buffalo friendships</h2>



The formation of buffalo friendships extends beyond personality traits to include environmental and seasonal factors. 



Some studies have noted that access to shared resources, such as water and shade, often dictated which buffalo spent time together. In drought-prone periods, buffalo formed stronger bonds with those who exhibited cooperative behaviors, such as sharing resting spots or water access.



Interestingly, younger buffalo were observed mimicking the social patterns of older, more dominant individuals, suggesting that friendship behaviors might also have a learned component. This learning could play a role in how buffalo integrate into their herds and establish their social standing.



Another noteworthy aspect is the role of vocal communication. While the study primarily focused on spatial proximity, field observations revealed that buffalo frequently used low-frequency calls to maintain contact with their preferred companions when separated by distance. These calls helped reinforce bonds and facilitated regrouping.



The influence of predators also shaped buffalo friendships. Herd members who maintained strong friendships were more likely to engage in collective vigilance, enhancing their chances of detecting and escaping threats. This highlights the adaptive advantages of forming close <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/older-griffon-vultures-have-fewer-friends-with-stronger-bonds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social bonds</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/iscience/fulltext/S2589-0042(24)02644-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iScience</a>.



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Buffalos build friendships based on similar personality traits

Friendships are a cornerstone of human social dynamics, often influenced...

The plague, in its historical context, has been a merciless killer. In the mid-1300s, it was famously known as the “Black Death,” which took the lives of nearly 50 million Europeans.



Today, the United States has an average of seven human plague cases annually, thanks to advancements in sanitation, public health measures, and antibiotics.



However, the plague still continues to haunt prairie dogs and other rodents, especially in the western half of the United States.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rodents-carriers-of-the-plague">Rodents: Carriers of the plague</h2>



Over time, scientists have been uncovering the role that animals, primarily <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-rodent-borne-diseases-spill-over-into-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rodents</a>, play in disease transmission. Recently, researchers at the <a href="https://missouri.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Missouri</a> made a breakthrough in understanding the mode of disease spread. 



The research was led by Deborah Anderson, a professor in Mizzou’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Her team discovered the disturbing mode of transmission -&nbsp;from&nbsp;mother&nbsp;flea to offspring.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animals-impacted-by-the-plague">Animals impacted by the plague</h2>



Animals, specifically <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bald-eagles-dont-only-eat-fish-as-prairie-dogs-will-attest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prairie dogs</a>, have been significantly impacted by the plague. Entire colonies have been decimated, which consequently affects the broader ecosystem.



For instance, the black-footed ferret, one of the most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/its-now-or-never-for-madagascars-endangered-mammals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endangered mammals</a> globally, experienced an 80% population decline in 2009 due to the plague. Prairie dogs are their primary food source.



The ongoing spread of the plague by rodents amplifies the need for expanded research in this field to safeguard both animal and human lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-infectious-disease-research">Infectious disease research </h2>



Following 9/11, federal funding was directed toward the development of bioterrorism defense research facilities within public universities. As a result, the Laboratory for Infectious Disease Research (LIDR) was built on Mizzou’s campus.



This state-of-the-art facility features a Biosecurity Level 3 classification, making Mizzou one of only 12 universities equipped to safely investigate treatable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-heightens-risk-of-most-infectious-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pathogenic diseases</a>.



Anderson noted that few places could support her infectious disease research as well as Mizzou does.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-need-for-continued-plague-research">The need for continued plague research</h2>



Mizzou’s commitment to combating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-remains-a-global-health-emergency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global health</a> challenges is demonstrated by their cutting-edge research.



The symbiotic relationship between the health of people, animals, and the environment is at the core of Mizzou’s research philosophy. 



This approach, known as One Health, places importance on the study of animals, given that it can help minimize human exposure to infectious diseases. 



For example, the more we understand about the plague-transmission habits of fleas, the better equipped we are to monitor the well-being of wildlife ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-safe-research-environment">A safe research environment</h2>



The safe execution of this research was made possible by Mizzou's stringent safety protocols at the LIDR. The environment encourages researchers to think broadly and take on societal challenges securely.



Anderson expressed gratitude for being able to work with bacteria safely and advocated for continued dedication to such research.



Overall, through the invaluable discoveries made by Deborah Anderson and her team at Mizzou, we continue to decode the intricacies of the plague, helping protect both humans and wildlife.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ripple-effect-of-the-plague-on-ecosystems">Ripple effect of the plague on ecosystems</h2>



The impact of the plague extends far beyond individual animals or species, triggering cascading effects across entire ecosystems.



Prairie dogs, often seen as key species in their habitats, play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of grassland ecosystems. When colonies are decimated by the plague, the consequences reverberate through the food chain.



Predators like the black-footed ferret rely heavily on prairie dogs not only as a primary food source but also for shelter within their burrows. 



The loss of prairie dog populations disrupts this interdependence, further endangering ferrets and impacting other species that share the habitat.



In addition, the reduction of prairie dog activity influences plant growth, soil composition, and overall biodiversity within these regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-safeguarding-the-balance-of-ecosystems">Safeguarding the balance of ecosystems</h2>



Research into plague transmission helps safeguard this delicate balance, ensuring that ecosystems remain resilient against such biological disruptions.



Through deeper understanding and proactive management of disease dynamics, researchers can not only prevent outbreaks but also promote a healthier co-existence between humans, animals, and the environments they inhabit.



This broader ecological perspective highlights the importance of studying diseases like the plague from a holistic standpoint, tying together conservation, public health, and environmental sustainability.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51668-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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The modern-day plague: Rodents, fleas, and their impact on wildlife

The plague, in its historical context, has been a merciless...

The discovery of a unique relationship between insects and plants has solved a longstanding mystery. For over a century, botanists have wondered how the tiny seeds of Balanophora were dispersed, and who the pollinators were - considering their less-than-attractive appearance and yeasty smell.



Researchers at Kobe University have revealed that insect species, such as ants and crickets, can both pollinate and disperse seeds for plants. This highlights the remarkable role that insects play in our ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-balanophora-s-reproduction">Mystery of Balanophora’s reproduction</h2>



Deep within the moist, shaded understories of the subtropical forests of Shimoshima Island in Japan, parasitic plants known as Balanophora thrive. 



These plants, which depend on the roots of other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-boost-plant-evolution-in-surprising-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> for sustenance, have puzzled botanists. Among them, Balanophora subcupularis stands out for its dull colors and yeasty smell, contrasting with its bright red relatives that attract birds and mammals for seed dispersal.



Traditionally, researchers suggested that these plants relied on wind to disperse their seeds. However, the windless nature of these forest understories made this hypothesis unlikely. 



Moreover, the mechanisms of pollination for B. subcupularis remained unclear, as its unremarkable appearance seemed to dissuade typical pollinators like bees.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-relying-on-insects-for-pollination">Plants relying on insects for pollination</h2>



<a href="https://www.kobe-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe University</a> botanist Suetsugu Kenji, who specializes in understanding the interactions between parasitic plants&nbsp;and their surrounding ecosystems, took on the challenge of uncovering the secrets of B. subcupularis.



Suetsugu and his team dedicated over 100 hours to observing the plants and capturing tens of thousands of automated nighttime photographs during the flowering and fruiting stages. 



These observations were complemented by animal exclusion experiments and seed feeding trials to confirm which animals contributed to pollination and seed dispersal.



The results, published in two consecutive papers in the journal&nbsp;Ecology, revealed a surprising truth: ants and camel crickets are the primary pollinators of B. subcupularis. These insects, drawn by the plant’s pollen and nectar, also consume the fleshy seed-bearing leaves, effectively dispersing its seeds.



"It is well known that many plants rely on insects for pollination, although it’s rare for ants and crickets. Also, many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/herbicides-are-disrupting-plant-insect-interactions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> use birds and mammals to distribute their fruits, and again it’s very unusual that crickets or other tiny arthropods take over this role," noted Suetsugu.



"Even more striking, it is very rare for the same animal to perform both functions, and it is unique that the same invertebrates do so."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insects-dual-role-in-plant-pollination">Insects' dual role in plant pollination</h2>



Suetsugu believes the dual role of ants and crickets is influenced by ecological factors. 



"B. subcupularis blooms late in the year when many typical pollinators, such as bees, are less active. In addition, our study site is a small island at the northern edge of the plant’s distribution, which might contribute to the scarcity of pollinators and seed dispersers," explained Suetsugu.



The insects’ involvement in both pollination and seed dispersal likely evolved due to these environmental constraints, where traditional agents like birds, mammals, and bees are scarce. This rare adaptation underscores the resilience and ingenuity of nature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-plant-insect-relationships">Significance of plant-insect relationships</h2>



The findings extend beyond the reproduction of B. subcupularis. 



"This underscores the importance of invertebrates in plant reproduction and encourages us to look deeper into how these relationships evolve and what environmental factors drive such unique adaptations. More practically, our findings also contribute to conservation strategies for rare and endangered plants like Balanophora subcupularis," Suetsugu noted.



"Understanding their reliance on specific invertebrates for both pollination and seed dispersal helps inform habitat preservation efforts and the management of invertebrate populations, which are crucial for these plants’ survival."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-call-to-preserve-unique-ecosystems">Call to preserve unique ecosystems</h2>



This remarkable research on plant and insect interaction illuminates the intricate and often overlooked roles of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-leaf-eating-insects-have-a-huge-impact-on-forests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invertebrates in ecosystems</a>.



The study calls for greater attention to the conservation of such species, which play vital roles in maintaining biodiversity. By protecting the habitats and populations of these tiny but significant creatures, we can ensure the survival of plants like B. subcupularis and the ecosystems they support.



The story of ants and crickets aiding Balanophora subcupularis highlights a rare and remarkable partnership, providing a glimpse into nature’s adaptability and interconnectedness. 



As researchers like Suetsugu continue to unveil these secrets, the importance of conserving even the smallest actors in our ecosystems becomes undeniably clear.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ecy.4465" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology</a>.



Image Credit: Hashiwaki Hiromu



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Parasitic plant has some unlikely allies for pollination and seed dispersal

The discovery of a unique relationship between insects and plants...

Animals, much like humans, accumulate knowledge and wisdom as they age. A growing body of research highlights the profound impact that older animals have on their groups and ecosystems. 



However, human activities, especially hunting and fishing, are threatening this invaluable resource, pushing many species toward instability and decline.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animals-that-defy-time">Animals that defy time</h2>



Some species achieve astonishing lifespans. Bigmouth buffalo fish can live up to 127 years, Greenland sharks can reach 392 years, and certain sponges live for over 10,000 years.



These extended lifespans allow the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-conservation-day-2024-saving-species-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creatures</a> to gather knowledge about their environments and pass it on to younger generations.



In a recent paper published in&nbsp;the journal Science, researchers noted that Earth's old animals are in a state of decline.



The analysis, which was based on data from over 9,000 peer-reviewed papers, warns that the few animals reaching old age are often targeted due to their size, unique features, or reproductive potential.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-longevity-conservation-for-old-animals">Longevity conservation for old animals</h2>



Eliminating the largest and most experienced animals has significant consequences for social structures and group survival. Keller Kopf, lead researcher and ecologist at <a href="https://www.cdu.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Darwin University</a>, advocates for "longevity conservation," which emphasizes protecting older individuals. 



"That simplistic idea about old individuals not being important for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-animal-day-2024-building-a-legacy-of-compassion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a>, or for environments, is really not the full story," said Kopf.



He and his co-authors argue that old animals play vital roles in biodiversity and ecosystem health, and therefore need targeted protection policies and management strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-knowledge-in-animal-populations">Cultural knowledge in animal populations</h2>



Older animals often act as reservoirs of cultural knowledge, maintaining stability within their groups. 



Older female elephants, for example, possess a "social memory" that helps identify friends and foes, detect dangers like lions, and guide the group to water sources during droughts. Similarly, postmenopausal orcas excel at locating salmon for their pods.



The removal of older individuals destabilizes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-got-their-colors-150-million-years-before-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a>. This loss of cultural transmission explains why some fish populations fail to recover, even after fishing bans are implemented.



"The trouble is once culture is lost, it is very hard to regain," said Kopf.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grandmother-hypothesis-and-group-stability">Grandmother hypothesis and group stability</h2>



Older mammals often contribute significantly to the survival of their offspring and subsequent generations - a phenomenon known as the "grandmother hypothesis."



While their reproductive output declines with age, their knowledge and assistance in raising young bolster group success. 



For instance, deep-sea corals, which can live for thousands of years, provide critical habitats for marine life. Furthermore, older birds often ensure better care for their offspring.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fisheries-and-collapse-of-collective-memory">Fisheries and collapse of collective memory</h2>



The targeting of older fish in fisheries has dire consequences for species survival. Culum Brown, a fish biologist at Macquarie University, emphasizes that older fish carry essential cultural knowledge. 



"The key thing here is that many important behaviors, such as migration to breeding and feeding grounds, are transmitted socially in lots of species of fish," said Brown.



"Imagine a fish swimming around in the ocean. The chances of finding the best feeding or breeding locations by chance is virtually zero." Losing older fish disrupts these learned behaviors, leading to potential population collapse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wisdom-and-social-learning-in-conservation">Wisdom and social learning in conservation</h2>



Kopf’s research underscores the importance of "cultural transmission" in animals. This concept acknowledges that animals possess culture and that older individuals transmit critical social learning. 



The accumulated knowledge of older individuals, such as where to locate scarce resources or find shelter, becomes irreplaceable in challenging environments.



More conservationists now recognize the need to preserve social learning and cultural knowledge within animal populations. 



"A term that has definitely pretty much only been used for people in the past is ‘wisdom,’ and we’ve used that term - wise - in the title (of the study)," said Kopf. This wisdom, stored in older animals, often holds the key to a species’ survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tragic-loss-of-wisdom-and-experience">Tragic loss of wisdom and experience </h2>



Hunting practices that target older animals exacerbate species’ vulnerabilities.



For instance, older elephants, which play pivotal roles in group dynamics, are systematically hunted for their large tusks and trophy value. 



This loss impacts not just the individuals but also the social fabric of their groups.



Kopf’s findings on the importance of older animals offer a poignant reflection on human society. "It’s made me think a lot more about how we don’t value older people in our society," he noted. 



This neglect of older generations results in a loss of wisdom and experience that could benefit humanity. "What is that doing for the modern world?” said Kopf.



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



Longevity conservation could provide a solution. This approach involves targeted policies to protect older individuals, recognizing their role in maintaining biodiversity and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-and-possibly-even-insects-have-emotions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem</a> services. 



By prioritizing these efforts, we can safeguard not just individual species but the intricate webs of knowledge and survival strategies they sustain.



Protecting older animals is not just about preserving the past. It is a step toward ensuring the future stability and richness of life on Earth. 



As researchers continue to reveal the critical roles of older animals, it becomes clear that their survival is intertwined with our planet’s ecological health.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.ado2705" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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'Old and wise' animals are essential for the survival of species

Animals, much like humans, accumulate knowledge and wisdom as they...

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...

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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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" 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> 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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

[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



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.

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"] Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected...

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



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.

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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

[sendtonews key="qas3EhyI0Y-2220951-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="vpljfR2VBX-2560867-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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.

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="MHyhtebibJ-2200368-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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.

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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