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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

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

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

Whales have fascinated people for centuries. Now, scientists have discovered that humpback whales produce songs with some structure that looks a lot like how humans organize language.



These findings draw on methods used to see how babies detect words in speech. The <a href="https://doi.org/10.1126/science.adq7055" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> was led by <a href="https://www.arnonlanguagelab.com/inbal-arnon-phd" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Inbal Arnon</a> from the Hebrew University, along with colleagues at multiple universities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whale-songs-and-human-speech">Whale songs and human speech</h2>



For years, experts questioned whether <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-helps-humans-have-20-minute-conversation-with-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a> used anything resembling human language. That has changed, with this <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adq7055" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> reporting that whale songs contain recurring elements similar to those in spoken words.&nbsp;



The team compared patterns in whale recordings to patterns in human language. They found that certain repeated sounds appeared in a skewed distribution, which also shows up in language.



They arrived at these conclusions using eight years of recordings gathered near New Caledonia. The analysis suggests that whales may create phrases with distinct internal boundaries that appear repeatedly.



<a href="https://media.ed.ac.uk/media/1_x47e22m8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">*** Click here to listen to the whale songs ***</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-baby-language-research-helps">How baby language research helps</h2>



Researchers turned to methods originally used by baby-language experts. In a classic 1996 <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.274.5294.1926" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a>, scientists showed that eight-month-old infants track probabilities between syllables to spot word boundaries.



Applying these same ideas to whale song helped the team identify distinct structural units. They suspect whales might piece together these sound units through a similar statistical process.



The question is whether whales detect transitions between sound elements as cues. That possibility opens new doors for understanding how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-20-minute-conversation-with-a-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> learn complex calls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-chain-across-the-ocean">Cultural chain across the ocean</h2>



Humpback whales learn their songs from each other, passing new phrases through communities. This type of <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0065345408603770?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cultural transmission</a> can shape communication in ways that mirror human language.



Experts believe these communal practices may help songs change over time. As new whales adapt tunes, they add fresh twists to a shared repertoire.



Such changes might explain why certain phrases dominate a region, while others fade away. That dynamic process could be central to how these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-whales-use-songs-to-hide-from-predators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> maintain a musical tradition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-debating-what-whale-songs-mean">Debating what whale songs mean</h2>



This work extends beyond simple comparisons. “Whale song is not a language; it lacks semantic meaning,” said <a href="https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/biology/people/ecg5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Ellen Garland</a> from the <a href="https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of St Andrews</a>.



“Using insights and methods from how babies learn language allowed us to discover previously undetected structure in whale song.” said Professor Inbal Arnon from the Hebrew University.



The team sees a bigger question about whether these patterns matter to the whales themselves. It's unclear if they perceive these divisions the same way we do.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-communication-in-whales-and-humans">Communication in whales and humans</h2>



“It suggests that our understanding of the evolution of language can benefit not only from looking at our closest primate relatives, but also at cases of convergent evolution elsewhere in nature,” remarked Professor Simon Kirby from the <a href="https://www.ed.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Edinburgh</a>.



Language evolution research has often focused on apes or other primates.&nbsp;



Looking at whales may highlight the role of cultural factors in shaping communication. The study's authors see parallels that challenge old ideas about human uniqueness.



Other scientists note that humpback songs may also resemble music more than language. Some traits might bridge both domains, hinting at shared pathways in how complex signals emerge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-next">What happens next?</h2>



The study authors plan to explore whether <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humpback-whale-travels-farther-than-any-mammal-ever-recorded/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whale</a> songs contain segments that have special significance. They want to know if whales respond differently when certain phrases are rearranged.



Dr. Garland mentioned that these new perspectives raise many open questions about cognition and communication. She adds that more data will help confirm if whales use these breaks in real interaction.



Some observers hope these results will guide better conservation strategies. If we grasp how whales craft their songs, we might better protect their communication hotspots.



Some researchers see parallels between whale melodies and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-causes-similar-emotional-experiences-and-sensations-in-all-cultures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human music</a>. Yet the authors emphasize that whale songs do not carry the expressive content of a full language.



Scientists might compare humpback song shifts across different regions. That approach could reveal how social learning shapes each population's signature sounds.



Others are keen to track how quickly whales adopt new phrases from traveling groups. Rapid changes might hint at a flexible system that's primed for adaptation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whales-and-humans-share-cultural-learning">Whales and humans share cultural learning</h2>



Whales and humans seem incredibly different. Yet both rely on cultural learning to pass key behaviors across generations.



These findings highlight a surprising link between human speech and whale song. Researchers believe this shared trait might spark new ideas about how communication evolves.



They see whales as a window into broader questions about how complex signals arise through cultural means. Tracking those signals could lead to fresh insights about creativity in nature.



Many experts now wonder if whale songs might reshape our definitions of language-like behavior. More studies are needed to see if these patterns hold across different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/conversation-with-humpback-whale-gives-seti-team-ideas-on-how-to-talk-to-aliens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whale species</a>.



These results might broaden how we see animal communication in the future.



The study is published in <a href="https://doi.org/10.1126/science.adq7055" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Whale songs share very similar patterns with human language

Whales have fascinated people for centuries. Now, scientists have discovered...

They start their journey on sandy shores, scuttling toward the waves at barely a few inches long. Some people assume these little sea turtles vanish after that, drifting in the open water for years without actively swimming or controlling where they go.



In a recent <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2013.3039" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> led by Kate Mansfield from the University of Central Florida, researchers have pieced together what happens during the early, lesser-known part of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-turtles-show-signs-of-recovery-but-conservation-issues-remain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">turtles’ lives</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-baby-turtles-is-difficult">Tracking baby turtles is difficult</h2>



Researchers recently uncovered the whereabouts of young sea turtles by using carefully designed satellite trackers. They found that tiny turtles show more control over their movement than once believed.



“We’ve had massive data gaps about the early baby to toddler life stages of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-sea-turtle-day-celebrating-100-million-years-of-majesty/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea</a> turtles,” said Mansfield. She explained that this phase was rarely observed in detail.



"Known as the sea turtle ‘lost years,' few data exist on the in-water behavior of young, oceanic-stage sea turtles," wrote the researchers.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainfall-impacts-the-size-of-sea-turtle-hatchlings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Young</a> turtles shed their outer shell layers quickly. This makes it tough to secure tracking devices long enough to gather good data.



Engineers refined lightweight solar-powered tags for weeks or months of location data without hindering the turtles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-young-sea-turtles-don-t-just-drift">Young sea turtles don’t just drift</h2>



Scientists once believed baby turtles went with the flow of ocean currents. Field data are now challenging that long-standing notion.



“What we’ve uncovered is that the turtles are actually swimming,” said Nathan Putman, an ecologist at LGL Ecological Research Associates in Texas.



The analysis compared drifting buoys with small turtles and showed that many turtles moved on their own instead of washing ashore.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-baby-turtles-choose-where-to-swim">Baby turtles choose where to swim</h2>



The difference between turtles and free-floating buoys grew clearer over the course of each tracking period. Drifting objects often ended up stuck on beaches, yet many turtles did not.



“This tiny little hatchling is actually making its own decisions about where it wants to go in the ocean and what it wants to avoid,” said Bryan Wallace, a wildlife ecologist at <a href="https://ecolibriumsolar.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecolibrium in Colorado</a>.



The new findings suggest that turtles choose routes that match their needs for food and safe temperatures.



"The paths of our tracked neonate loggerheads were environmentally constrained. No turtles moved into lethally cold waters," noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-habitats-of-sea-turtles-revealed">Hidden habitats of sea turtles revealed</h2>



Tag data also showed young sea turtles in areas once assumed too close to shore for this stage. Though many do wander across open waters, some appear comfortable dipping into shallower spots.



The researchers noted that such varied paths challenge the old definition of an exclusively oceanic childhood. This highlights the importance of regions near the continental shelf for four types of endangered sea <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/leatherback-sea-turtles-where-the-worlds-largest-turtles-go-to-eat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">turtles</a>.



It took years to refine solar-powered tags that could function on small, rapidly growing shells. Early versions fell off too fast or failed to recharge in ocean conditions.



“For years, the technology couldn’t match the dream,” said Jeffrey Seminoff, a marine biologist at NOAA who was not involved in the study. 



Continued collaboration between ecologists and engineers is bringing once-hidden animal behavior to light.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-efforts-for-sea-turtles">Conservation efforts for sea turtles </h2>



The findings spotlight part of a creature’s life that was overshadowed for decades by hatchling races to the sea and nesting adults on familiar beaches. 



Young turtles do more than just drift - they swim toward the open ocean, while others linger over the continental shelf.



“It’s not that the sea turtles were ever lost, but that we had lost track of them,” said Jeanette Wyneken at Florida Atlantic University. This deeper understanding may guide conservation efforts in areas where turtles feed or rest before reaching adulthood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-how-baby-turtles-swim">Rethinking how baby turtles swim</h2>



The research suggests that the early life stage of sea turtles is not just a dispersal period. The study captures the reality that little turtles roam widely and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-sea-turtle-day-a-tribute-to-resilience-and-conservation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adapt</a> their routes to changing conditions.



They might spot floating algae to seek shelter, or they might veer away from predator hotspots. Even in vast waters, these hatchlings can find ways to survive on their own terms.



The study is published in <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2013.3039" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B</a>.



-----



Like what you read?<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/"> Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Where young sea turtles spend their early lives has always been a mystery - until now

They start their journey on sandy shores, scuttling toward the...

A new study has unveiled the far-reaching ecological impact of wolves and other large carnivores in Yellowstone National Park, demonstrating how the reintroduction of predators can trigger dramatic changes in ecosystem dynamics.&nbsp;



By examining 20 years of data (from 2001 to 2020) collected at 25 riparian sites, the research team discovered a staggering 1,500% increase in willow crown volume along streamside areas in northern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-supervolcano-eruption-study-sparks-new-debate-on-where-and-when-it-will-erupt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yellowstone</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-return-of-wolves-in-yellowstone-nbsp">The return of wolves in Yellowstone&nbsp;</h2>



This remarkable recovery is attributed to the cascading effects initiated by the restored large carnivore guild, following the return of wolves in 1995–96, and the subsequent reduction in elk populations that had previously overbrowsed the vegetation.



The study, led by William J. Ripple of <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a> and the <a href="https://consbio.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Conservation Biology Institute</a> provides one of the most compelling examples yet of a trophic cascade - a process where predators indirectly influence vegetation by regulating herbivore behavior and abundance.&nbsp;



In this case, the dramatic growth of willows, used as a proxy for aboveground biomass, offers a clear metric of the ecological recovery underway in Yellowstone.



“Our findings emphasize the power of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/apex-predators-can-help-restore-ecosystems-but-not-immediately/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators</a> as ecosystem architects,” said Ripple. 



“The restoration of wolves and other large predators has transformed parts of Yellowstone, benefiting not only willows but other woody species such as aspen, alder, and berry-producing shrubs. It’s a compelling reminder of how predators, prey, and plants are interconnected in nature.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unleashing-the-trophic-cascade">Unleashing the trophic cascade</h2>



The ecological phenomenon documented in Yellowstone is a textbook example of a trophic cascade. When <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-return-of-the-gray-wolf-triumph-or-tragedy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wolves</a> were extirpated from the park by the 1920s, elk populations surged, leading to overbrowsing and severe degradation of riparian vegetation.&nbsp;



This suppression not only diminished willow growth but also adversely affected other woody plants and the overall habitat quality in these crucial areas.&nbsp;



With the reintroduction of wolves and other large carnivores in the mid-1990s, elk numbers and behaviors were altered, allowing vegetation - especially willows - to rebound dramatically.



Using willow crown volume as a three-dimensional indicator of vegetation recovery, the study quantitatively measured the significant resurgence of riparian habitats.&nbsp;



Notably, the strength of this trophic cascade in Yellowstone is reported to surpass 82% of the strengths observed in a global synthesis of similar studies, highlighting the exceptional nature of the recovery process in this iconic landscape.&nbsp;



Yet, the researchers also noted that recovery varied considerably among sites, reflecting the complexity and spatial heterogeneity of natural systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-riparian-zones-crucial-biodiversity-hotspots">Riparian zones: Crucial biodiversity hotspots</h2>



Although riparian areas comprise only a small fraction of the western United States’ landscape, they are vital for biodiversity. 



These zones offer critical resources and habitat for a wide array of wildlife, linking upland and aquatic ecosystems and supporting a diversity of species that may not thrive elsewhere. 



The resurgence of willow growth is not merely an isolated botanical event; it plays a key role in restoring the integrity of entire riparian ecosystems, thereby benefiting birds, mammals, and other organisms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wolves-and-yellowstone-ecosystem-recovery">Wolves and Yellowstone ecosystem recovery</h2>



The study’s robust findings are based on an extensive, multi-decade dataset that captured the gradual but profound changes in riparian vegetation over time.&nbsp;



By employing willow crown volume as a measurable indicator, the researchers were able to directly link the restoration of large carnivores to ecosystem recovery. This method offers a powerful tool for evaluating trophic cascade strength and can potentially be applied to similar ecological studies elsewhere.



“Our analysis of a long-term data set simply confirmed that ecosystem recovery takes time. In the early years of this trophic cascade, plants were only beginning to grow taller after decades of suppression by elk. But the strength of this recovery, as shown by the dramatic increases in willow crown volume, became increasingly apparent in subsequent years,” said Robert Beschta, an emeritus professor at Oregon State University.&nbsp;



“These improving conditions have created vital habitats for birds and other species, while also enhancing other stream-side conditions.”



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



This research not only highlights the importance of predator restoration for revitalizing degraded ecosystems but also provides critical insights for conservation strategies worldwide. 



The dramatic improvement in riparian vegetation in Yellowstone serves as a powerful reminder that restoring natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-predator-prey-feast-ever-seen-in-the-ocean-enormous-quickly-altered-food-chain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predator-prey dynamics</a> can have cascading benefits that extend to every level of the ecosystem.&nbsp;



As the study demonstrates, such processes are integral to maintaining biodiversity, ecosystem resilience, and the overall health of our natural landscapes.



By quantifying the recovery of willows, the study paves the way for further exploration into how the reintroduction of large carnivores can be harnessed to promote ecosystem restoration in other parts of the world.&nbsp;



As conservationists and policymakers seek effective strategies to mitigate the impacts of human activities and climate change, Yellowstone’s example offers both hope and a proven roadmap for the transformative power of nature’s own regulatory mechanisms.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2025.e03428" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Ecology and Conservation</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Wolves are rebuilding forests and restoring ecosystem balance in Yellowstone

A new study has unveiled the far-reaching ecological impact of...

The ocean is a world of sound. Beneath the surface, marine life relies on calls, clicks, and songs to navigate, communicate, and survive. For baleen whales, singing songs is essential, but it also comes with risks. 



Killer whales, their primary natural predators, are intelligent and highly skilled hunters. Yet, despite their sharp senses, some baleen whales manage to avoid their attacks.



New research from the University of Washington sheds light on a fascinating survival strategy. Some baleen <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/these-marine-mammals-killer-whales-dolphins-permanently-lost-ability-to-ever-walk-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a> call at frequencies so deep that killer whales cannot hear them. 



This unique adaptation influences everything from migration to mating, revealing how fear shapes the behavior of these giants of the sea.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fight-or-flight-dilemma-of-whales">Fight or flight dilemma of whales</h2>



Baleen whales, known for their filter-feeding systems, differ from their toothed relatives in behavior and survival strategies. 



Unlike dolphins or sperm whales, which often live in large, social pods, many baleen <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-helps-humans-have-20-minute-conversation-with-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whale species</a> lead more solitary lives. When faced with an attack, they must decide whether to fight or flee.



Some species, like humpbacks and gray whales, choose to stand their ground. They rely on their maneuverability and group defense to deter predators. Others, like blue and fin whales, opt for speed, escaping into the vastness of the open ocean. 



This divide between fight and flight species plays a crucial role in shaping their lifestyles, habitats, and even the way they sing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-whale-songs">Mystery of whale songs</h2>



Whale songs are among the most haunting and complex sounds in nature. Scientists have long studied these vocalizations to understand their purpose. 



While it is well known that whales use songs to attract mates and communicate across great distances, one question remained: why don’t killer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-20-minute-conversation-with-a-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a> track these calls to hunt them down?



The answer lies in frequency. Killer whales have a hearing range that starts at 100 hertz, meaning they cannot detect sounds below this threshold. 



Some baleen whales, particularly those in the flight category, have adapted by producing ultra-low-frequency calls that remain completely undetectable to their predators. These deep-voiced species include blue, fin, sei, Bryde’s, and minke whales.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-songs-help-whales-hide">How songs help whales hide</h2>



Trevor Branch, professor of aquatic and fishery sciences at the <a href="https://www.washington.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Washington</a>, led a study analyzing the relationship between whale songs and predation risk. 



The research combined existing knowledge of killer whale hearing with studies on baleen whale vocalizations. By modeling how sound moves through the ocean, Professor Branch was able to determine which species remain acoustically hidden.



It turns out that the calls of flight species rarely travel more than a kilometer before fading. This means that even if killer whales could hear them, they would still be difficult to track. 



Meanwhile, the fight species - right, bowhead, gray, and humpback whales - produce higher-frequency calls that can be detected from much greater distances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whales-survival-strategy-hidden-in-songs">Whales survival strategy hidden in songs</h2>



The idea that baleen whales rely on fight or flight responses is not new, but the role of sound in their survival adds a new layer of understanding. Could these deep songs serve as a defense mechanism? 



This concept, known as "acoustic crypsis," suggests that some whales evolved to sing in a way that keeps them hidden from predators.



“But these super-loud songs could expose them and their mates to killer whale attack. And this is where acoustic crypsis comes in: singing at low frequencies that are impossible, or very difficult, for killer whales to hear,” Branch said.



This survival strategy highlights how even the most massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humpback-whale-travels-farther-than-any-mammal-ever-recorded/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creatures</a> on Earth must adapt to threats. By calling at deep frequencies, flight species can continue their essential communication while reducing the risk of drawing unwanted attention.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-habitat-influences-defense">How habitat influences defense</h2>



The fight-or-flight divide among baleen whales also affects where they live. Fight species tend to migrate and give birth in coastal areas. 



These shallow waters provide some protection, as they allow group defense strategies to work more effectively. Their slow-swimming bodies may make them vulnerable, but their ability to maneuver quickly gives them an edge when fending off an attack.



In contrast, flight species thrive in the open ocean. Their sleek, powerful bodies allow them to escape quickly when danger approaches. 



These whales spread out over vast distances, making it harder for killer whales to find them. Their survival depends on speed and silence rather than confrontation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trade-offs-in-feeding-and-mating">Trade-offs in feeding and mating</h2>



Choosing where to live comes with trade-offs. Coastal waters offer some protection from predators, but they also provide less food. Fight <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ship-routes-overlap-with-92-of-whale-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> must compete for limited resources, while flight species, living in more isolated open waters, have access to greater food supplies.



However, mating presents the opposite challenge. It is much easier for fight species to find partners when gathered in the same location. 



Flight species, scattered across thousands of miles, must rely on their songs to attract mates. This explains why their calls are long and repetitive, increasing the chances of being heard over vast distances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-fear-in-whale-behavior">Role of fear in whale behavior</h2>



The findings of this research suggest that fear plays a significant role in shaping whale behavior. Every aspect of their lives, from where they breed to how they communicate, is influenced by the threat of predation.



“It just never occurred to me that some whales sing low to avoid killer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/whale-sharks-use-offshore-oil-rigs-as-food-stops-during-migration-harming-conservation-efforts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a>, but the more I looked at this, the more I realized that every aspect of their behavior is influenced by the fear of predation,” said Professor Branch.



This hidden war of sound beneath the waves highlights how even the ocean’s largest creatures must navigate the dangers of their world. By understanding songs of whales, scientists continue to uncover the secrets of survival in the deep.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.13228" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Mammal Science</a>.



-----



Like what you read?<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/"> Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Whales have developed an impressive strategy to evade predators

The ocean is a world of sound. Beneath the surface,...

Monarch butterflies have long symbolized transformation and resilience. Their fragile yet determined migration across North America has captivated scientists and nature enthusiasts.



Each year, these vibrant orange-and-black-winged insects embark on a remarkable journey, covering thousands of miles to reach their wintering grounds. However, recent findings paint a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/creating-new-forests-to-assist-monarch-butterfly-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">troubling picture</a>.



The number of western monarch butterflies has fallen to its second-lowest count in nearly 30 years. A combination of habitat destruction, pesticide exposure, and climate change threatens the survival of this iconic species.



Conservationists and researchers are scrambling to understand the reasons behind this sharp decline and what can be done to protect these beloved pollinators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monarch-butterfly-surveys">Monarch butterfly surveys </h2>



For decades, scientists have monitored monarch <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monarch-butterflies-may-be-added-to-the-endangered-species-list/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a> to track changes in their numbers. Monarchs found in the eastern United States migrate south to Mexico, where they are counted each year by researchers from the World Wildlife Fund.



However, monarchs west of the Rocky Mountains follow a different path and overwinter along the California coast.



Since 1997, the <a href="https://www.xerces.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation</a> has conducted annual counts of western monarchs. These surveys cover multiple locations, including coastal California, northern Baja California, and inland regions of California and Arizona. 



In 1997, researchers recorded the highest-ever population numbers - a total of 1.2 million butterflies. That number has plummeted over the subsequent years, reaching a devastating low of just 1,901 monarchs in 2020.



Despite a brief resurgence in recent years, the latest survey results are alarming. In 2024, only 9,119 monarchs were counted - a staggering 96 percent drop from the 233,394 recorded in 2023. This marks the second-lowest population count since the survey began.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decline-in-key-wintering-sites">Decline in key wintering sites</h2>



One of the most dramatic declines was observed at a key wintering site owned by <a href="https://www.nature.org/en-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Nature Conservancy</a> in Santa Barbara. 



This location hosted 33,200 monarchs last winter. In 2024, the number fell to just 198. Such steep declines raise concerns about the future stability of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monarch-butterflies-shift-to-winter-breeding-for-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">monarch populations</a> in the region.



While the reasons for this sudden decrease are not entirely clear, experts point to several contributing factors. Loss of milkweed, the primary host plant for monarch caterpillars, remains one of the biggest challenges.



The plant’s habitat has been shrinking due to agricultural expansion, urban development, and prolonged droughts. Pesticides also play a major role, contaminating milkweed and poisoning caterpillars before they can mature into butterflies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-heat-and-monarch-butterflies">Extreme heat and monarch butterflies </h2>



Weather conditions also significantly impact monarch <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-are-monarch-butterflies-vanishing-in-the-winter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a>. While habitat destruction and pesticide exposure remain persistent threats, extreme heat waves may have played a crucial role in this year’s decline.



According to Emma Pelton, an endangered species biologist with the Xerces Society, monarchs struggle when temperatures reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.7 Celsius). Prolonged exposure to temperatures above 108 degrees Fahrenheit (42.2 degrees Celsius) can be fatal.



“The monarch population is already small,” Pelton said. “Triple-digit heat in the western states last year may have slowed breeding.”



The summer of 2023 saw multiple heat waves across the western United States. In July, Palm Springs set a record high of 124 degrees Fahrenheit (51.1 degrees Celsius). 



A second wave of extreme heat hit northern California in early October, with multiple cities breaking temperature records. These conditions may have reduced breeding success and weakened the already vulnerable monarch population.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-history-of-dramatic-population-swings">History of dramatic population swings</h2>



Although the 2024 population decline is severe, western monarchs have demonstrated an ability to recover in the past. In 2020, when the population hit its all-time low of 1,901 individuals, many feared the species was on the brink of collapse.



Yet, the following year their numbers soared to 247,246 - an increase of nearly 13,000 percent. The upward trend continued in 2022, with the survey recording 335,479 monarchs.



“This is bad news,” Pelton said. “But we have seen incredible recovery. This doesn’t mean we’re not going to have western monarchs. It’s hopefully a wake-up call that a bad year can set them back pretty significantly.”



The rapid rise and fall of monarch populations suggest that they have the potential for quick recovery, provided conditions improve. However, conservationists warn that without sustained efforts to protect their habitat and food sources, monarchs may struggle to bounce back in the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-federal-efforts-to-protect-monarch-butterflies">Federal efforts to protect monarch butterflies</h2>



In response to the ongoing decline, the <a href="https://www.fws.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service</a> announced in December 2024 that it is taking steps to list monarchs as a threatened species. 



If granted, this status would provide crucial legal protections. Killing or transporting monarchs, or destroying monarch habitats would be prohibited under federal law.



The proposal also includes protections for 4,395 acres of land across seven coastal California counties. These areas serve as essential overwintering sites for western monarchs. 



If the listing is approved, conservationists hope it will slow habitat destruction and create safer breeding grounds for monarch <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eastern-monarch-butterfly-populations-have-plummeted-by-59-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a> to recover.



A public comment period on the proposal remains open until March, allowing experts and the public to weigh in on the decision. Officials have until December 2025 to finalize the listing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-calls-for-stronger-pesticide-regulations">Calls for stronger pesticide regulations</h2>



Beyond habitat loss, pesticides pose a major threat to monarchs and other pollinators. In December 2024, the environmental law firm Earthjustice petitioned the Environmental Protection Agency to strengthen pesticide regulations. 



Their request focused on requiring companies to assess how their products affect insects such as bees, moths, and butterflies.



While some pesticides have been linked to monarch declines, many remain widely used in agriculture. Conservation groups argue that without stricter oversight, pesticide exposure will continue to harm pollinators and reduce their chances of survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fate-of-monarch-butterflies">The fate of monarch butterflies</h2>



The future of western monarchs remains uncertain. Conservationists stress that efforts to restore milkweed habitats, protect overwintering sites, and regulate harmful pesticides must continue. 



While federal protections may provide some relief, long-term recovery will require a collective effort from governments, researchers, and the public.



For now, the sight of monarch <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milkweed-gardens-are-needed-to-save-monarch-butterflies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterflies</a> filling the skies each year remains in jeopardy. The next few years will determine whether these iconic pollinators can withstand the mounting pressures against them or if they will fade into memory as another casualty of a changing world.



Information in this article was obtained from an online <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/feb/04/monarch-butterfly-population-decline">press release</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Monarch butterflies face steep decline in the Western U.S.

Monarch butterflies have long symbolized transformation and resilience. Their fragile...

Each year, painted lady butterflies embark on one of the most remarkable migrations in the animal kingdom, traveling up to 10,000 km between Africa and Europe in search of optimal breeding conditions.&nbsp;



But what determines how far an individual butterfly will travel? Is migration encoded in their DNA, or is it shaped by external factors?



A recent study, led by scientists at the <a href="https://ist.ac.at/en/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Science and Technology Austria</a> (ISTA) in collaboration with international research teams, reveals that environmental conditions - not genetics - dictate whether a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-incredible-transatlantic-journey-of-the-painted-lady/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">painted lady</a> will travel long or short distances. 



The findings challenge previous assumptions about butterfly migration and highlight the role of phenotypic plasticity - the ability of organisms to alter their behavior in response to their surroundings.



Study co-author Daria Shipilina is an evolutionary biologist and postdoctoral researcher at ISTA. 



“The painted lady is a strikingly beautiful and colorful butterfly species,” said Shipilina. "Watching them form large aggregations is a true spectacle. But what makes them particularly special is their incredible long-distance migrations.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-one-of-nature-s-most-impressive-migrations">One of nature’s most impressive migrations</h2>



Painted ladies begin their journey in Northwest Africa in the spring. They fly across the Mediterranean into Europe, where subsequent generations continue northward, reaching as far as Sweden and the Arctic tundra. 



For a long time, scientists believed that once these butterflies arrived in northern Europe, they perished in the colder months.&nbsp;



However, recent studies confirmed that painted ladies complete a circular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-butterfly-migration-sparked-by-a-surge-in-vegetation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration</a>, returning south in autumn - some staying in the Mediterranean region while others venture all the way back to Africa, even crossing the Sahara.



This discovery raised a crucial question: why do some painted ladies migrate farther than others? Do they have an internal navigation system that dictates their path?



To investigate, Shipilina and her team collected painted lady butterflies from various locations, including Benin, Senegal, Morocco, Spain, Portugal, and Malta, and employed advanced isotope geolocation techniques to track their movements.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-the-butterflies-origins-and-destinations">Tracing the butterflies' origins and destinations</h2>



By analyzing the stable isotopes in butterfly wings, the researchers could determine where each butterfly originated as a caterpillar.



“The key principle of this method is that the isotopic makeup - or the stable isotopes - of the adult butterfly’s wings mirrors the isotopic signature of the plants they ate as a caterpillar,” Shipilina explained.



Co-first authors Megan Reich and Clément Bataille from the <a href="https://www.uottawa.ca/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Ottawa</a> spent several years refining this geolocation technique, integrating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-machine-learning-can-help-us-protect-chimpanzees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">machine-learning</a> algorithms to improve accuracy.&nbsp;



The analysis revealed two distinct migration patterns: while some butterflies took a long trip south, migrating from Scandinavia across the Sahara, others traveled shorter distances, staying in the Mediterranean region.



This raised another question - was this difference encoded in the butterflies’ genes?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-basis-of-butterfly-migration-nbsp">Genetic basis of butterfly migration&nbsp;</h2>



To investigate the genetic basis of migration, the scientists conducted whole <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/butterfly-genome-has-barely-changed-after-250-million-years-of-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome</a> sequencing on the butterflies. Surprisingly, their analysis showed no significant genetic differences between those that migrated long distances and those that stayed closer to Europe.



“This finding fundamentally differs from what is observed in some birds, another well-studied migratory group,” Shipilina noted. “For example, in willow warblers, a large chromosomal region has been associated with variable migratory direction, illustrating how different phenotypes arise from distinct genomic compositions.”



Additionally, factors like sex, wing size, and wing shape had no clear influence on migration distances, further ruling out genetic or physiological predisposition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-cues-and-butterfly-migration">Environmental cues and butterfly migration</h2>



If genes don’t dictate migration behavior, then what does? According to the study, environmental conditions play the dominant role.&nbsp;



The scientists propose that phenotypic plasticity - the ability of an organism to adapt its behavior based on external cues - explains why some butterflies migrate farther than others.



For instance, a butterfly in Sweden might receive strong environmental cues to migrate long distances, such as shortening day length and temperature drops, prompting it to cross the Sahara.&nbsp;



Meanwhile, a butterfly in Southern France, where seasonal changes are less extreme, may not experience the same triggers, leading it to migrate only as far as the Mediterranean region.



“Phenotypic plasticity allows organisms to adjust their migratory behavior without changing their genetic makeup,” Shipilina said. “This flexibility could be key to how painted ladies adapt to different climatic conditions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexities-of-butterfly-migration-nbsp">Complexities of butterfly migration&nbsp;</h2>



Compared to species like monarch butterflies, painted lady migration remains relatively understudied.&nbsp;



This latest research raises new questions: Does this migration pattern apply to painted ladies worldwide? Are other butterfly species also influenced by environmental cues rather than genetics? How will climate change impact the migration patterns of painted ladies in the future?



The researchers aim to build on these findings to further unravel the complexities of butterfly migration.



“There is still so much to learn about the migration of painted ladies,” Shipilina said. “We are determined to close this knowledge gap - one paper at a time.”



By demonstrating that migration strategies are shaped by the environment rather than hardwired in DNA, this study provides a new perspective on how insects navigate the world.&nbsp;



As climate patterns shift, understanding these flexible behaviors may be critical for predicting and protecting the future of migratory butterflies.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae586" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PNAS Nexus</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Butterfly migration habits are not determined by their DNA

Each year, painted lady butterflies embark on one of the...

It sits at the tail end of our digestive system and measures around 5 feet long by 2.5 inches across. The colon is responsible for absorbing water, maintaining hydration levels, and managing waste before it leaves the body.



Recent research has highlighted certain fruits that can support <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/western-diet-identified-as-major-cause-of-colon-cancer/">colon health</a>. The apple emerged as a standout because of its potential to promote a healthier gut and help maintain balanced gut flora.



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



The colon’s structure includes four segments that work together to finalize digestion. Issues like constipation or diarrhea can result when any part of this complex pathway is disturbed.



Colon-related illnesses can display symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, or visible blood in stool. Certain screenings like colonoscopy can detect cancers or irregularities at an early stage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-apples-draw-attention">Why apples draw attention</h2>



Apples pack a high dose of pectin, which has properties that might diminish gastrointestinal inflammation. These fibers also seem to encourage healthy bacterial growth in the intestines.



Research has shown that including apples in a regular diet may result in reduced cholesterol and better weight control. This benefit ties back to the apple’s soluble fiber, which is thought to slow fat absorption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-insights-on-fiber">Scientific insights on fiber</h2>



A study on fiber-enriched botanicals highlighted how these compounds contribute to digestive health by promoting gut motility and supporting beneficial bacteria. In apples, this type of fiber sweeps through the digestive system, pushing out unwanted substances along the way.



“The fiber is usually a nondigestible polysaccharide that is not digested in the human body,” explained Dr. Khalid, the study's lead author from Government College University in Faisalabad. 



Fiber’s role in colon function has been studied for its link to improved bowel regularity. It also appears to help in stabilizing blood sugar and supporting cardiovascular health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-juice-based-diet-and-gut-health">Juice-based diet and gut health</h2>



Another <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5438379/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> on the effects of a vegetable and fruit juice-based diet found notable changes in gut microbiota, metabolism, and overall health.&nbsp;



The researchers tracked participants consuming only vegetable and fruit juices. The results showed a significant decrease in weight and body mass index - demonstrating the potential impact of plant-based nutrients on digestion and weight regulation.



Although apples were not singled out in the juice-based experiment, the key takeaway remains that fruit-rich regimens can shift gut bacteria. These shifts often coincide with reductions in overall body mass.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-anti-inflammatory-angle">The anti-inflammatory angle</h2>



Inflammatory bowel disease can cause tremendous discomfort and disrupt daily life. A study on dietary interventions for IBD identified the anti-inflammatory diet as a promising strategy for managing symptoms and supporting gut health.



Apples, with their pectin and plant compounds, could complement such approaches. They may lessen the impact of irritants in the digestive tract and reduce flare-ups in some individuals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-of-dried-fruits">Potential of dried fruits</h2>



Fruits play a vital role in gut health, whether consumed fresh or dried. A <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10097306/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> on the health effects of dried fruits found limited evidence suggesting that dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, dates, prunes) may positively influence gut microbiota composition. 



Apples in their dried form carry nutrients that could still be valuable. People seeking a portable option could find dried apples handy if they stay mindful of portion sizes.



Each person’s digestive system has unique sensitivities, so it’s wise to start slow with fiber-rich fruits. Switching to a high-fiber diet too quickly may cause bloating or abdominal discomfort.



It’s also important to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-water-is-the-key-to-a-long-and-healthy-life/">drink enough water</a> to keep everything moving along. Staying hydrated can help the colon effectively manage any uptick in fiber.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simple-ways-to-include-apples">Simple ways to include apples</h2>



Having an apple as a midday snack or pairing it with a meal can be a small step toward better digestive health. Apple slices can be blended into a morning smoothie or eaten with peanut butter.



Baked apple slices are a sweeter treat that still contains much of the fruit’s natural fiber. These small additions can fit easily into a regular daily routine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fruit-for-a-healthy-colon">Fruit for a healthy colon</h2>



Apples are not a cure-all, yet they align with research pointing to benefits of fruit-based diets. Combined with regular checkups, they can be part of a measured effort to keep things running smoothly.



Routine screenings remain essential for catching possible complications early. Listening to the body’s signals and consulting with professionals are key for anyone looking to fine-tune their digestive wellness.



A balanced diet that includes apples might be more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegetables-prevent-colon-cancer/">helpful for colon</a> function than many realize. The fiber, water content, and protective compounds within this fruit may do more for the gut than just satisfying hunger.



-----



Like what you read?<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/"> Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

This fruit is ideal for cleansing the colon, according to experts

It sits at the tail end of our digestive system...

Octopuses have long fascinated scientists with their intelligence, camouflage abilities, and unique biology. 



These remarkable creatures continue to surprise researchers, revealing new secrets about their evolutionary past. One of the most intriguing mysteries has been the question of how octopuses determine their sex.



Scientists at the University of Oregon recently identified a sex chromosome in the California two-spot octopus. This discovery confirms that cephalopods, a group that includes squid and nautiluses, rely on chromosomes for sex determination. 



The research also suggests that this chromosome has existed for at least 480 million years, making it one of the oldest known sex chromosomes in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turquets-octopus-dna-tells-scientists-that-west-antarctic-ice-sheet-collapse-is-close/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal kingdom</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sex-chromosome-in-octopuses">Sex chromosome in octopuses</h2>



“Cephalopods are already such interesting creatures, and there are so many things we’re still learning about them, especially in neuroscience,” said Gabby Coffing, a doctoral student at the <a href="https://www.uoregon.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oregon</a>. 



“This is just showing one more interesting thing about them: They have really ancient sex chromosomes.”



The findings, published in the journal Current Biology, provide new insights into the genetic history of octopuses and their relatives. Understanding this ancient sex determination system could help scientists uncover more about how these intelligent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-octopus-day-the-intelligent-creatures-of-the-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creatures</a> evolved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sex-determination-varies-across-species">Sex determination varies across species</h2>



Sex determination is not the same for all animals. While humans and most mammals rely on the X/Y chromosome system, other species follow different methods. 



In turtles, sex depends on the temperature at which the eggs incubate. Some fish determine sex using a single gene rather than a whole chromosome. 



Even in humans, sex chromosomes are not always straightforward. Gene mutations or extra sex chromosomes can lead to biological variations that do not fit into a simple male or female category.



Cephalopods have long posed a challenge for genetic research. They are not standard laboratory animals like mice or fruit flies, making it difficult for scientists to study their genetics in depth. 



Although researchers have sequenced the genomes of some octopus <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/octopus-suckers-the-future-of-underwater-adhesives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a>, they still struggle to link specific genes to particular traits. The discovery of an octopus sex chromosome marks a major breakthrough in understanding how these animals develop and reproduce.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-sex-chromosome-in-female-octopuses">Unique sex chromosome in female octopuses</h2>



The research team at the University of Oregon made an unexpected discovery when sequencing the DNA of a female California two-spot octopus. 



Among its 30 chromosomes, one stood out because it contained only half the usual amount of genetic material. This anomaly had not appeared in previous studies of male octopus DNA.



“This particular chromosome had half the amount of sequencing data, which indicated there was only one copy,” Coffing explained. “Then as we explored that more, we reached the conclusion that we must have stumbled upon a sex chromosome.”



This finding suggested that female octopuses carry a unique chromosome that males do not. The scientists needed to confirm their discovery by comparing it with data from other cephalopods. 



If this chromosome appeared in multiple species, it would indicate an ancient and consistent pattern of sex determination.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sex-chromosome-exists-in-other-cephalopods">Sex chromosome exists in other cephalopods</h2>



The team analyzed genomic data from other octopus species and found similar evidence of this unique chromosome. 



The experts also detected the sex chromosome in squid, a species that diverged from octopuses between 248 and 455 million years ago. More surprisingly, they identified traces of it in the nautilus, a mollusk that split from the octopus lineage approximately 480 million years ago.



“This indicates that their common ancestor had this similar sex determination system,” Coffing said.



Most sex chromosomes change rapidly over time because they play a crucial role in reproduction. However, this cephalopod sex chromosome appears to have remained stable for hundreds of millions of years. 



This suggests that octopuses and their relatives have relied on this system without significant evolutionary changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comparing-ancient-sex-chromosomes">Comparing ancient sex chromosomes</h2>



While the octopus sex chromosome is one of the oldest known, other ancient sex chromosomes exist in nature. 



Some plants, like mosses and liverworts, evolved their sex chromosomes early in Earth’s history. Insects also have sex chromosomes that date back about 450 million years, though these have changed considerably over time.



The discovery in octopuses challenges the idea that sex chromosomes always evolve quickly. It suggests that some systems remain stable if they continue to work effectively over long periods. Cephalopods seem to have found a genetic formula for sex determination that has stood the test of time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-the-missing-w-chromosome">Mystery of the missing W chromosome</h2>



One question remains unanswered: how exactly does the sex determination system work in octopuses? Scientists initially suspected that octopuses might have a system similar to birds and butterflies, where males have two identical chromosomes (ZZ) and females have one of each (ZW).



Kern and his team searched for a W chromosome in female octopuses but didn't find one. This leaves open the possibility that octopuses follow a different system in which males have two copies of a single chromosome (ZZ), while females have only one (Z).



Researchers still need more evidence to confirm how octopus sex chromosomes function. While this study has solved one piece of the puzzle, many questions remain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secrets-of-the-octopus">Secrets of the octopus </h2>



Octopuses continue to be one of the most enigmatic creatures in the ocean. Their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-octopus-has-mastered-the-art-of-multispecies-hunting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intelligence</a>, problem-solving skills, and unique genetics set them apart from most other animals. 



The discovery of an ancient sex chromosome adds another layer to their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-animal-will-replace-humans-as-earths-dominant-species-this-scientist-has-an-idea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary story</a>. For now, researchers know that this octopus sex chromosome has been around for nearly half a billion years. However, the exact mechanics of how it works remain uncertain.



As scientists continue to explore cephalopod genetics, they will uncover more about how these fascinating animals developed their extraordinary traits.



The octopus has revealed one of its secrets, but it still holds on to many more.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(25)00005-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Sex chromosome discovered in octopuses is 480 million years old

Octopuses have long fascinated scientists with their intelligence, camouflage abilities,...

For a long time, researchers believed that only humans could recognize when someone else lacked information. This ability, known as "theory of mind," allows people to communicate, teach, and cooperate in complex ways. Many thought that animals, including apes, did not share this skill.



However, new research from Johns Hopkins University challenges that idea. The experts found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-apes-will-suffer-through-frequent-and-extreme-climate-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">apes</a> actively pointed out hidden treats to humans who did not know where they were.



This seemingly simple action suggests that apes understand when others lack information and take steps to help them.



The findings, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, provide the clearest evidence yet that apes can track ignorance in others. This discovery offers insight into the shared cognitive abilities of humans and great apes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-apes-share-cognitive-abilities-with-humans">Apes share cognitive abilities with humans</h2>



Study co-author Chris Krupenye is an assistant professor of psychological and brain sciences at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins</a>.



“The ability to sense gaps in one another’s knowledge is at the heart of our most sophisticated social behaviors, central to the ways we cooperate, communicate, and work together strategically,” said Professor Krupenye. 



He explained that this cognitive ability forms the basis for skills like language and teaching, both of which are considered uniquely human. The study suggests that these abilities may have evolved millions of years ago, long before <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-animal-will-replace-humans-as-earths-dominant-species-this-scientist-has-an-idea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">modern humans</a> emerged.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-ape-intelligence">Testing ape intelligence </h2>



In collaboration with Luke Townrow, a Johns Hopkins PhD student, Professor Krupenye worked with three male bonobos to explore <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/apes-use-gestures-similar-to-human-body-language/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">apes</a>’ understanding of others’ knowledge.



The apes - Nyota, 25; Kanzi, 43; and Teco, 13 - live at Ape Initiative, a research and education nonprofit.



The experiment was designed to test whether the apes could recognize when a human lacked information. One bonobo sat across a table from Townrow. Another person placed a treat (a grape or a Cheerio) under one of three cups.



Sometimes, Townrow could see where the treat was placed. Other times, he could not. The bonobo could only get the treat if Townrow found it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-apes-anticipate-what-humans-know">Apes anticipate what humans know</h2>



Townrow always asked the same question: “Where’s the grape?” and then waited for ten seconds. If he had seen where the treat was hidden, the bonobo usually remained still, waiting for him to retrieve it.



But when Townrow did not see the treat being hidden, the bonobo reacted differently. Instead of waiting, it quickly pointed to the correct cup. Some bonobos even pointed multiple times, making sure their message was clear.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clear-and-repeated-gestures">Clear and repeated gestures</h2>



“Their fingers would point right through the mesh - it was clear what they were trying to communicate,” said Professor Krupenye.



One of the apes, Kanzi, reacted especially strongly. He was highly food-motivated and would tap repeatedly to ensure Townrow noticed his pointing. His eagerness highlighted the urgency with which the apes tried to share information.



This reaction supports previous observations from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-discovery-anadoluvius-turkae-suggests-humans-originated-in-europe-not-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wild</a>. Researchers have seen chimpanzees vocalize to warn others of danger when a group member appears unaware of a threat, such as a nearby snake.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recognizing-gaps-in-knowledge">Recognizing gaps in knowledge</h2>



“We predicted that if apes are really tracking ignorance, when their partners lacked knowledge, they would be pointing more often and more quickly, and that’s exactly what they did,” Krupenye said.



The ability to recognize when someone lacks knowledge suggests that apes can hold two different perspectives at the same time. They know where the treat is, but apes also recognize that their human partner does not.



This cognitive skill is fundamental in human social interactions. People adjust their communication based on what they believe others know or do not know. The findings suggest that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/playful-teasing-among-apes-suggests-that-humor-has-ancient-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">great apes</a> share this ability at a basic level.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-apes-have-advanced-mental-abilities">Apes have advanced mental abilities</h2>



“There are debates in the field about the capabilities of primates, and for us, it was exciting to confirm that they really do have these rich capacities that some people have denied them,” Krupenye said.



By demonstrating that apes can track others' ignorance, the study provides new evidence that great apes possess more advanced mental abilities than previously believed. This research could reshape how scientists view the evolution of human intelligence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-apes-change-human-beliefs">Can apes change human beliefs?</h2>



The next step is to investigate why apes behave this way. Are they simply trying to influence their partner’s behavior, or do they understand that they are changing someone else’s thoughts?



“What we’ve shown here is that apes will communicate with a partner to change their behavior, but a key open question for further research is whether apes are also pointing to change their partner’s mental state or their beliefs," said Townrow.



Future studies will explore whether <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-early-humans-learned-to-walk-from-an-ancestor-called-lufengpithecus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">apes</a> communicate to correct others’ misunderstandings or simply to achieve a goal. Either way, the findings suggest that the roots of human social intelligence stretch back millions of years.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2412450122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Apes can tell when humans don’t know something

For a long time, researchers believed that only humans could...

Scientists reveal that killer whales and dolphins have lost the ability to return to life on land. The <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.96.18.10261" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancestors</a> of these sea creatures once walked along the shores, but those days will not return.



Evolution molded these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brazilian-river-dolphins-communication/">marine mammals</a> into highly efficient swimmers. Their limbs transformed into flippers, and their bodies became highly adapted to life in a watery world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transition-of-land-dwelling-mammals">Transition of land-dwelling mammals</h2>



About <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rstb.2020.0523" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">375 million years ago</a>, the first vertebrates left water behind. This shift gave rise to animals that breathed air and strolled across the land.



However, a wave of land-dwelling mammals later took the plunge back into the sea. That second transition happened around 250 million years ago and led to the evolution of whales, dolphins, and other fully aquatic groups.



“Once cetaceans pass the critical point of aquatic adaptation, their evolution follows a path of no return,” said study lead author Bruna Farina from the <a href="https://uni-freiburg.de/en/">University</a><a href="https://uni-freiburg.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> </a><a href="https://uni-freiburg.de/en/">of Freiburg</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sea-creatures-that-will-never-walk">Sea creatures that will never walk</h2>



Dollo’s Law states that complex evolutionary transformations cannot be reversed once they are fully established. 



This idea mirrors what researchers see in dolphin and killer whale lineages, where the changes run too deep to roll back.



These adaptations include streamlined bodies, the presence of a blow hole, powerful tails, the transition to flippers, and specialized organs for underwater living. Each feature is so fine-tuned for marine life that the possibility of ever walking on dry land again is miniscule.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unbreakable-aquatic-ties">Unbreakable aquatic ties</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orcas-have-hunting-and-eating-habits-that-we-never-imagined/">Killer whales</a> and dolphins stand out for their intelligence and tight social bonds. Their communication skills and group strategies have helped them conquer seas around the world and become top predators in marine ecosystems.



Yet their advanced aquatic traits also impose serious limits. Living in the ocean demands specialized breathing, insulation, and saltwater tolerance.



“Extreme specialization in an environment can become an evolutionary trap, reducing the chances of survival in the face of environmental changes,” noted Virag Sharma from the <a href="https://www.ul.ie/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Limerick</a>.



Body size also plays a part in this story. In cooler waters, larger mass helps retain heat, further nudging these animals to remain in deep seas.



Once bodies are scaled up and limbs shift into flippers, returning to land becomes far more complicated. Muscles that once stabilized weight on solid ground are no longer adapted to bearing loads outside the ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vulnerability-in-changing-seas">Vulnerability in changing seas</h2>



Shifting ocean <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rstb.2018.0186" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a> strain marine ecosystems and challenge species that are adapted to specific thermal ranges. Warmer waters can disrupt prey availability and fuel harmful algal blooms.



Killer whales and dolphins face added dangers from pollution, overfishing, and noise. Their reliance on echolocation and coordinated hunting can be hampered by excessive boat traffic or contaminated habitats.



Unlike <a href="https://animalia.bio/semiaquatic-animals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">semiaquatic mammals</a>, these <a href="https://www.britannica.com/animal/cetacean" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cetaceans</a> have no land-based alternatives. They cannot flee to shallower waters or take shelter on beaches to avoid hazards. The ocean remains their only refuge.



This single-environment dependence increases their vulnerability. Large storms, sudden temperature shifts, or habitat degradation could hit them harder than species with more flexible living arrangements.



Experts warn that these animals sit at the mercy of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-oceans-are-rapidly-changing-colors-matching-climate-predictions/">rapid ocean changes</a>. Without protective measures, killer whales and dolphins face more barriers to coping with disruptions than do their land-capable relatives.



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



Scientists continue studying how extreme physical changes reinforce cetaceans’ permanent reliance on the sea. Bone density, muscular configuration, and specialized blowholes highlight how far they have diverged from their land-roaming forebears.



Such features are beneficial for these sea creatures in the water but pose insurmountable challenges which prevent them from walking on land. Gravity becomes an obstacle, and their bodies lack the support systems found in most terrestrial mammals.



Conservation <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1101525108" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">efforts</a> aim to safeguard these ocean dwellers from growing pressures. Marine protected areas and stricter pollution controls may help maintain stable conditions.



Large-scale collaboration among nations, researchers, and communities could help shield dolphins and killer whales from further decline. Reducing noise pollution and regulating fisheries are among the steps that might keep them thriving.



Future work will explore genetic and ecological factors that shape their fate. Meanwhile, the public can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-meadows-and-climate-change-an-uncertain-future/">support conservation</a> efforts by staying informed and encouraging sustainable practices.



The study is published in <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2023.1099" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B</a>.



-----



Like what you read?<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/"> Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

These marine mammals have lost their ability to ever walk on land again

Scientists reveal that killer whales and dolphins have lost the...

The ocean is a vast and mysterious world, teeming with life that often remains hidden from human eyes. Occasionally, however, nature reveals its secrets in breathtaking ways. 



This was recently the case in Carmel Bay off the central coast of California, where hundreds of dolphins were seen leaping and gliding together. 



Drone footage captured across the bay reveals a miles-long cluster of dolphins, forming what experts call a "super pod" of more than 1,500 animals. 



These weren’t just any dolphins - they were Risso’s dolphins, a species known for their stocky bodies, bulbous heads, and preference for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lonely-dolphin-in-the-baltic-sea-is-constantly-talking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smaller groups</a>.



Typically traveling in pods of 10 to 30, their sudden appearance in such large numbers was an unusual and captivating sight, drawing attention from scientists and enthusiasts alike.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dolphins-create-a-super-pod">Dolphins create a super pod</h2>



Captain Evan Brodsky with the <a href="https://montereybaywhalewatch.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monterey Bay Whale Watch</a> was among those fortunate enough to witness the spectacle. He captured the drone footage of the event, which took place on a Friday morning.



"They were on the horizon I feel like as far as I could see," he said. The sheer scale of the gathering was overwhelming, even for someone accustomed to observing marine life.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="7SSuI0ftF5-4296162-12187" type="single"]</div>



Brodsky and his team had set out that day in search of gray whales, but their plans were quickly overshadowed by the unexpected arrival of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fentanyl-discovered-in-dolphins-what-it-means-for-marine-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dolphins</a>. From their 20-foot inflatable boat, they watched mesmerized as the dolphins jumped out of the water with fluid and graceful movements.



These creatures, which can weigh up to 1,100 pounds and grow as long as 13 feet, seemed to be putting on a show, peeking around as they leaped into the air. Their playful behavior added to the spectacle of the dolphin super pod, creating a scene that felt almost otherworldly in its beauty and energy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dolphins-at-play-a-celebration-of-life">Dolphins at play: A celebration of life</h2>



Colleen Talty, a marine biologist who joined the trip to track the annual migration of gray whales, described the scene as "pretty amazing."



She was particularly struck by the sheer number of dolphins cavorting all around their boat. Some of them swam at the front of the vessel, using the waves created by its movement to propel themselves forward - a behavior known as bow riding.



"They were just having a great time. So they were breaching everywhere... tail slapping, coming right over to the boat. They looked like they were having a big party," said Talty.



The mix of adult and juvenile <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-in-dolphin-breath/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dolphins</a> suggested that several smaller pods had come together, likely traveling south. While such large gatherings have been observed before, they are not common - making this sighting even more remarkable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-features-of-the-monterey-coastline">Features of the Monterey coastline</h2>



The Monterey coastline played a significant role in making this encounter possible. Its unique underwater features, including a deep submarine canyon, create conditions that allow dolphins to swim much closer to shore than they might elsewhere along the California coast. 



According to Talty, this makes the area particularly ideal for spotting these marine mammals.



The team initially underestimated the size of the super pod, believing it consisted of only several hundred dolphins. It wasn’t until they launched the drone that the true scale became apparent. 



"Once we put the drone up, I was just blown away. I kept saying, 'Look at my screen. Look at my screen. Look how many there are,'" noted Brodsky. "It just blows my mind every time. It never gets old."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-playful-dolphins-in-the-super-pod">Playful dolphins in the super pod </h2>



One of the most memorable moments of the day came when Talty stood at the front of the boat and noticed dolphins turning on their sides to look directly at her. 



These curious <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pebanista-yacuruna-giant-dolphin-species-discovered-peru-amazon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creatures</a> seemed as interested in the humans as the humans were in them. Their playful behavior and apparent curiosity created a sense of connection between the two species - a reminder of the shared bond between all living beings.



As the dolphins continued to interact with the boat, the team made sure to drive carefully, avoiding any sudden movements that might harm the animals. 



"You don't want to make any abrasive maneuvers and potentially injure an animal. That's of course the last thing you ever want to do," Brodsky said. 



Instead, the team cruised alongside the dolphins, savoring the moment. "It was an incredible experience," he concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-s-grand-performance">Nature’s grand performance</h2>



This remarkable encounter with a dolphin super pod serves as a powerful reminder of the wonders of the natural world. For those lucky enough to witness such an event, it’s an experience that will stay with them forever.



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-dolphins-who-play-with-others-become-successful-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dolphins</a>’ playful antics and the sheer scale of their gathering highlighted the beauty and complexity of marine life, leaving an indelible mark on everyone present.



Moments like these also emphasize the importance of preserving the ocean and its inhabitants. As human activity continues to impact marine ecosystems, events like the Carmel Bay super pod remind us of what's at stake.



-----



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



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



-----

'Super pod' of over 1,500 dolphins captured in stunning drone footage

The ocean is a vast and mysterious world, teeming with...

A new study reveals that rat infestations in many cities worldwide are on the rise, with Washington, D.C. emerging as the biggest hotspot. 



The study, which was focused on rat sighting reports from 16 global cities, attributes the increasing rat populations to warming temperatures, urbanization, and other human activities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rat-sightings-on-the-rise">Rat sightings on the rise</h2>



The researchers conducted a first-of-its-kind analysis using publicly submitted rat complaint data. They discovered that in 11 of the 16 cities analyzed, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rats-have-a-very-complex-social-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rat</a> sightings have increased in recent years. 



Based on individual city trends, Washington D.C. led the pack, followed by San Francisco, Toronto, New York City, and Amsterdam. According to the study, the rat reporting trend in Washington D.C. was three times greater than that of Boston. 



Only three cities - New Orleans, Louisville, and Tokyo - experienced significant decreases in rat reports, with New Orleans showing the largest drop. The experts suggest that New Orleans’ strategies could serve as a model for other cities seeking to control rat populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-drivers-of-rat-population-growth">Key drivers of rat population growth </h2>



The research team performed statistical analyses of rat sighting reports and concluded that a little over 40% of the rising trend is due to warming temperatures. 



This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rapid-surge-in-global-warming-may-have-an-unexpected-source/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming</a> is primarily a result of burning coal, oil, and natural gas, which leads to milder winters and longer foraging periods for rats. 



Study lead author Jonathan Richardson, a biologist at the <a href="https://www.richmond.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Richmond</a>, explained the mechanism.



“We're seeing these increasing trends in rats in cities that are warming the fastest, probably because this is a small mammal that has physiological challenges in the cold weather months,” said Richardson.&nbsp;



“If we're warming the climate and winter starts a week or two later and spring arrives a week or two earlier, that's one, two, maybe even three or four weeks across the entire year where those rats can be above ground foraging, acquiring more food and maybe squeezing out one or two more reproductive cycles.”



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



Even a few extra weeks of activity can have a dramatic effect, given that female rats can produce a litter every month. With each litter consisting of eight to 16 pups, this additional time significantly accelerates population growth.



In addition to the effects of warming, the study identified increased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urbanization-is-a-threat-to-78-of-the-worlds-bird-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urbanization</a> and higher population densities as major factors. Rats thrive in built environments where food waste is abundant and human activity creates numerous shelters.&nbsp;



The experts note that these conditions allow rats to flourish in areas where people and their refuse provide a constant source of sustenance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rats-nature-s-ultimate-urban-survivors">Rats: Nature’s ultimate urban survivors</h2>



Rats have evolved to be remarkably adaptive in urban settings. New York City rat czar Kathleen Corradi stated during a conference that the rat is the third most successful mammal behind humans and house mice. So it evolved and engineered to live alongside us.&nbsp;



“They followed humans, Homo sapiens, across the continents and are in every single continent except Antarctica. So it's considered a wicked problem.”



Their ability to adapt and survive in close proximity to humans explains why rat populations are expanding even as cities implement various control measures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-rising-rat-populations">Consequences of rising rat populations</h2>



While rats are undeniably adaptable, their increasing numbers pose serious risks. When rodent populations soar, public health and urban infrastructure can suffer. 



"When rodent populations are high, people get sick, motor vehicles become disabled, mental health declines, fires are started and foods fouled," said Houston rat expert Michael Parsons, who was not involved in the study.



This statement captures the multifaceted impact of rat infestations. High rat populations can lead to increased transmission of diseases, disruption of transportation systems, and other societal challenges. 



People are understandably disturbed by rats, primarily due to an instinctive fear of creatures that can transmit disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantifying-city-rats">Quantifying city rats</h2>



Rats are notoriously difficult to count accurately due to their secretive and elusive nature. The study did not count rats directly; instead, it analyzed rat sighting complaints submitted by city residents. 



Although these reports may not reflect the actual number of rats, they provide valuable insight into trends over time. Richardson emphasized that the long-term consistency of the reporting methods used in the study lends credibility to the observed trends.



Even though Washington D.C. exhibited the highest rate of increase, Richardson clarified that this does not necessarily mean the city has the most rats overall - it simply indicates that the number of rat complaints is rising faster than in other cities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prevention-over-poison">Prevention over poison</h2>



The study's findings suggest that traditional methods of rat control, such as poisoning and trapping, may not be sufficient to combat the escalating problem. 



Instead, prevention measures appear to be more effective. In cities like New Orleans, public authorities are taking proactive steps. 



For instance, educational workshops and community campaigns focus on reducing conditions that attract rats, such as improper waste management and excess food availability.



“In New Orleans they make a big effort to get out into neighborhoods and do educational workshops and campaigns to talk to residents about what makes a property less likely to have rats,” Richardson said.



Similarly, New York City has initiated innovative strategies, including replacing street garbage bags with rat-resistant containers and forming an elite volunteer group known as the “NYC rat pack.” 



Early results from these initiatives are promising, although comprehensive data have yet to fully reflect their impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-complex-urban-challenge">A complex urban challenge</h2>



While it is possible to better manage rat populations through improved urban planning and public education, complete eradication is unrealistic. 



As <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a> conservation scientist Neil Carter pointed out, we can fight them better, but in the end “people need to coexist with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-addresses-the-global-need-for-human-wildlife-coexistence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a> in urban environments, even with rats.”



“Zero rats is impossible," noted Richardson. “But I think an expectation that we need to live with the number of rats that we're seeing in many of these cities is also an unhealthy perspective on this problem.”



In conclusion, this study offers a critical, data-driven look at the complex factors driving rat population growth in urban environments. 



As cities continue to warm, expand, and densify, the challenge of managing rat populations will require innovative and sustainable approaches that focus on prevention and public awareness.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.ads6782" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



Image Credit: AP Photo/Mary Altaffer



-----



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



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



-----

Rat populations are increasing in cities as temperatures rise

A new study reveals that rat infestations in many cities...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



—–



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



—–



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



—–

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



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



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



-----

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



-----



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



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



-----

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



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



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



-----

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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







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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



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



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



-----

What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



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



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



-----

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



---



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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

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

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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"

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"]</div>



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)



---



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...

News coming your way