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...

New research suggests that we could use artificial intelligence (AI) to combat climate change in a completely unexpected way. Experts are exploring the use of AI to reduce methane in cow burps.



Cows contribute to climate change significantly with their gassy stomachs. As part of their normal digestion, cows release methane, a potent greenhouse gas. 



In fact, according to a recent study, methane from cows in the agriculture sector accounts for about 33 percent of U.S. agriculture and three percent of total U.S. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-a-pill-stop-cows-from-burping-methane/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas emissions</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solutions-to-address-methane-emissions">Solutions to address methane emissions </h2>



Experts with the ARS Livestock Nutrient Management Research Unit and <a href="https://www.iastate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Iowa State University</a>'s Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering are investigating ways to reduce these methane emissions.



"Developing solutions to address methane emissions from animal agriculture is a critical priority," stated ARS Administrator Simon Liu.



"Our scientists continue to use innovative and data-driven strategies to help cattle producers achieve emission reduction goals that will safeguard the environment and promote a more sustainable future for agriculture."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methane-production-in-cows">Methane production in cows</h2>



Cows digest tough plant materials in their rumen, the largest of their four stomach compartments. In the rumen, microorganisms break down these plants, releasing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seaweed-supplements-reduce-methane-in-grazing-cattle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane gas</a> as a natural byproduct. 



This methane is expelled through burping that contributes to climate change. Scientists have discovered that certain compound molecules can inhibit this methane production.



Bromoform, a molecule naturally found in seaweed, has demonstrated a capacity to lessen cattle methane production by an astounding 80-98 percent.



The catch? It's a carcinogen, so it's not safe for cattle consumption and therefore not a viable solution for food safety reasons.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cutting-methane-from-cows-with-ai">Cutting methane from cows with AI </h2>



Facing the challenge of time-consuming and financially demanding research, the ARS scientists decided to employ AI and computational models to speed up the search for a safe and effective bromoform substitute.



"We are using advanced molecular simulations and AI to identify novel methane inhibitors based on the properties of previously investigated inhibitors [like bromoform], but that are safe, scalable, and have a large potential to inhibit methane <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-methane-emissions-threaten-earths-habitability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a>," noted Matthew Beck, an animal research scientist.



Teams from both institutions are working hand-in-hand. Iowa State University is leading the computer simulation and AI work, while ARS is identifying compounds and testing them through in vitro (lab) and in vivo (live cattle) studies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behavior-of-molecules-in-a-cow-s-stomach">Behavior of molecules in a cow's stomach</h2>



For this particular research, the experts are using what is known as a "graph neural network." In a nutshell, AI learns from publicly available data about cow rumen and predicts the behavior of molecules that can be further tested in laboratories.



This cycle creates a continuous feedback loop that helps the AI make more accurate predictions.



"Our graph neural network is a machine learning model, which learns the properties of molecules, including details of the atoms and the chemical bonds that hold them, while retaining useful information about the molecules' properties to help us study how they are likely to behave in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-have-emerged-as-major-source-of-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cow's stomach</a>," explained ISU Professor Ratul Chowdhury.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-ai-in-methane-reduction">The role of AI in methane reduction</h2>



The experts have identified 15 molecules that appear to have the same potential to inhibit methane production as bromoform.



The hope is that AI will play a significant role in understanding how these molecules interact with the microbial community of the cow's stomach - letting us discover novel molecules, and potentially key interactions, within the cow's stomach microbiome.



Jacek Koziel, <a href="https://www.ars.usda.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USDA-ARS</a> research leader, acknowledges the limitations of current strategies to mitigate methane emissions but sees great potential in this approach.



"This is why combining AI with laboratory research, through iterative refinement, is a valuable scientific tool," said Koziel.



"AI can fast-forward the research and accelerate these several pathways that animal nutritionists, researchers, and companies can pursue to get us closer to a very ambitious goal of limiting greenhouse gas emissions and helping mitigate climate change."



The power of AI is only limited by our imagination. From reducing cow burps to combating climate change, artificial intelligence is becoming an important ally in the fight to protect our natural world.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/af/article/14/6/33/7942668" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Animal Frontiers</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.



-----

How AI can help reduce methane emissions from cows

New research suggests that we could use artificial intelligence (AI)...

For decades, paleontologists have been debating how and when the era of dinosaurs began, armed mostly with fragmented fossil records and theories.



The widely accepted belief is that dinosaurs first originated on Gondwana, the southern portion of the ancient supercontinent Pangea. 



For millions of years, their existence was thought to be confined to this region before they gradually spread to Laurasia, the northern part of Pangea.



This theory suggests that dinosaurs established themselves in the south long before leaving any evidence of their presence in the Northern Hemisphere. A remarkable discovery in Wyoming, however, is changing that narrative.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oldest-dinosaur-in-north-america">Oldest dinosaur in North America </h2>



In 2013, a team from the <a href="https://www.wisc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Wisconsin-Madison</a> uncovered fossil remains in the Popo Agie Formation, a region near the equator in ancient Laurasia. 



After years of painstaking analysis, the researchers identified the fossils as belonging to a new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-tracks-discovered-on-uks-dinosaur-highway/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur</a> species:&nbsp;Ahvaytum bahndooiveche.



This dinosaur, estimated to be 230 million years old, is now the oldest known dinosaur from Laurasia, challenging the idea that dinosaurs only thrived in the Southern Hemisphere during this time.



Dr. Dave Lovelace, a scientist at the <a href="https://museum.geoscience.wisc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UW Geology Museum</a>, emphasized the significance of the discovery. "We have, with these fossils, the oldest equatorial dinosaur in the world - it's also North America's oldest dinosaur," he said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-laurasia-north-america-and-dinosaurs">Laurasia, North America, and dinosaurs</h2>



Laurasia was one of two supercontinents that formed during the late <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/500-million-year-old-trilobites-fossils-preserved-in-volcanic-ash/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paleozoic</a> and early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-were-not-the-only-animals-that-grew-fast-during-the-mesozoic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mesozoic</a> eras. It was made up of what are now North America, Europe, and Asia.



Around 200 million years ago, Earth’s landmasses were all connected as part of a giant supercontinent called Pangaea. Over time, Pangaea started to break apart, and Laurasia emerged as the northern part of the split.



While it was a vast landmass, it wasn’t just one giant chunk of land - it was split into several regions that would eventually evolve into the continents we know today.



As Laurasia broke apart and drifted into its current position, it played a major role in shaping the world’s geography. 



The separation of Laurasia from the southern supercontinent, <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/supercontinents-101-pannotia-gondwana-and-pangea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gondwana</a>, led to the creation of the Atlantic Ocean, which opened up between North America and Europe. 



The shifting of Laurasia also influenced global climates and ecosystems, setting the stage for the diverse life forms that would appear in the following millions of years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-characteristics-of-the-dinosaur-fossil">Characteristics of the dinosaur fossil</h2>



Far from the towering giants of later eras,&nbsp;Ahvaytum bahndooiveche&nbsp;was modest in size. 



"It was basically the size of a chicken but with a really long tail," Dr. Lovelace explained. Measuring just over one foot tall and three feet long, this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-extinction-of-dinosaurs-was-not-caused-by-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early dinosaur</a> likely lived an omnivorous lifestyle, similar to its sauropod relatives.



Although the fossil record for&nbsp;Ahvaytum bahndooiveche&nbsp;is incomplete, the team's research places this species in a critical period following the Carnian pluvial episode. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/dinosaur_Ahvaytum-bahndooiveche_species-discovery_Gabriel-Ugueto_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/dinosaur_Ahvaytum-bahndooiveche_species-discovery_Gabriel-Ugueto_1s.webp" alt="An artist's rendering shows how Ahvaytum bahndooiveche may have appeared in a habitat dating to around 230 million years ago. Credit: Gabriel Ugueto" class="wp-image-1956236"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An artist's rendering shows how Ahvaytum bahndooiveche may have appeared in a habitat dating to around 230 million years ago. Credit: Gabriel Ugueto</figcaption></figure>



This climatic event, which occurred 234 to 232 million years ago, drastically altered the environment - turning vast, arid deserts into lush and fertile landscapes.



These changes created more hospitable habitats, which likely played a key role in encouraging the diversification and spread of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-did-dinosaurs-sound-like/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early dinosaurs</a>. The period marked an important chapter in dinosaur evolution, as species began to adapt to these new and thriving ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timeline-of-dinosaur-evolution">Timeline of dinosaur evolution</h2>



Using high-precision radioisotopic dating, the scientists determined that&nbsp;Ahvaytum bahndooiveche&nbsp;lived in Laurasia about 230 million years ago, making it one of the oldest known dinosaurs from the Northern Hemisphere.



Older tracks in the same region suggest that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-triassic-fossil-gondwanax-paraisensis-may-rewrite-history-of-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur</a>-like creatures were present there even earlier, challenging previous beliefs that dinosaurs originated solely in the Southern Hemisphere before spreading northward.



This discovery alters the timeline of dinosaur evolution in North America while highlighting a significant collaboration with the Eastern Shoshone Tribe.



The species' name,&nbsp;Ahvaytum bahndooiveche, meaning "long ago dinosaur," honors the Indigenous people whose ancestral lands were home to the fossil site. 



This partnership reflects a deeper respect for cultural heritage, integrating Indigenous language and perspectives into the scientific process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-model-for-research">New model for research</h2>



Amanda LeClair-Diaz, an Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribal member, highlighted the importance of this partnership. 



"The continuous relationship developed between Dr. Lovelace, his team, and our community is one of the most important outcomes of this discovery," said LeClair-Diaz.



"Typically, the research process in communities, especially Indigenous communities, has been one sided, with the researchers fully benefiting from studies. The work we have done with Dr. Lovelace breaks this cycle and creates an opportunity for reciprocity in the research process."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-legacy-of-collaboration">Legacy of collaboration</h2>



The discovery of&nbsp;Ahvaytum bahndooiveche&nbsp;holds significance beyond just expanding our scientific knowledge. It challenges long-held beliefs about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/qunkasaura-pintiquiniestra-new-sauropod-dinosaur-discovered-in-spain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur</a> origins and encourages scientists to rethink established theories. 



Additionally, this finding highlights the value of incorporating diverse perspectives in research. 



By collaborating with the Eastern Shoshone Tribe in naming the dinosaur and respecting the cultural heritage of the land where the fossils were found, the project sets a new standard for inclusive and ethical scientific practices. 



The study is published in the <a href="https://academic.oup.com/zoolinnean/article/203/1/zlae153/7942678?login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society</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.



-----

Dinosaur discovery in North America is completely rewriting their history

For decades, paleontologists have been debating how and when the...

The Mediterranean Sea has always been a hotspot for marine life and many crustacean species. It connects diverse regions and hosts a blend of species shaped by environmental shifts and human activities. 



New data about organisms arriving from distant waters has sparked fresh interest among researchers studying these coastal zones. 



A recent investigation highlights <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/new-species-crustaceans-mediterranean-waters.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">previously unrecorded crustaceans</a> that have been found in areas of the Mediterranean. This may spark changes to our understanding of ecosystem structure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-encroaching-on-marine-life">Humans encroaching on marine life</h2>



Ports and piers are common along coastlines worldwide. They accommodate ships and stimulate commerce, but they can also serve as convenient footholds for newly arrived <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-climate-impacts-threaten-key-marine-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine species</a>. 



As humans construct new docks and other artificial surfaces, unexpected marine travelers and crustacean species may find places to settle. 



Some hitch rides on vessels, while others arrive in ballast water. Once they find a suitable location, they can spread and compete with established indigenous life forms. 



The research focused on organisms that were attached to local reefs and artificial structures. Findings showed that three species (<a href="https://www.gbif.org/species/4309967" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Athanas dimorphus</a>, <a href="https://www.gbif.org/species/2227601" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pilumnus longicornis</a>, and <a href="https://www.gbif.org/species/216384541" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pilumnus savignyi</a>) had never before been documented in the Mediterranean Sea. 



This discovery opens the door to new questions about how these crustaceans ended up along Israel’s shore.



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



A method called <a href="https://naturalhistory.si.edu/research/global-arms-program#:~:text=What%20is%20an%20Autonomous%20Reef,sample%20without%20destroying%20natural%20habitat." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ARMS</a> (Automated Reef Monitoring Structures) assists scientists to identify the presence of species that are not immediately visible. 



ARMS units look like simple boxes or frames, but they attract tiny organisms and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-impacting-marine-life-more-than-we-realized/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other marine life</a> that settle within their layers. 



By placing these devices along Israel's coast and checking them regularly, researchers can note newcomers. Early detection matters because once a non-native creature gains a foothold, it can be tough to remove.&nbsp;



If there is a time lag between identifying a new species that is present and trying to remove it or mitigate its effects, the process of removal or mitigation becomes more resource-intensive. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invasive-crustacean-species">Invasive crustacean species</h2>



"Invasive species can have impacts on our marine industries, such as growing on marine structures, killing or competing with marine aquaculture species and by spreading disease," said researchers at the <a href="https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/discover/what-are-invasive-species" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Plymouth</a>. According to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), tackling <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-unleash-invasive-species-into-unexpected-areas/">invasive species</a> costs the U.K. approximately <a href="https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201919/cmselect/cmenvaud/88/88.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1.8 billion pounds annually</a>. 



On a global scale, the cost is estimated to exceed $100 billion per year, which surpasses the financial toll of natural disasters.



These findings line up with the concerns raised by Professor <a href="https://smnh.tau.ac.il/en/research-at-smnh-2/scientific-staff/bella-galil/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bella S. Galil </a>and her colleagues, who stress the need for consistent programs that could give policymakers a chance to take swift action.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-variety-of-new-faces">Variety of new faces</h2>



The study does not only mention the three species that are fresh to the entire region. Two additional species, Sphaerozius nitidus and Liomera rugipes, also appear to be new to Israel’s coast.&nbsp;



Researchers see this as further proof that non-native animals can set up shop wherever conditions suit them. These crustaceans may slip into a niche or bring new challenges to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meet-melita-panda-the-black-and-white-crustacean-shrimp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">local ecological structures</a>. The nuances of whether they will harm native habitats remain unclear, though similar introductions in other parts of the world have led to shifts in local species interactions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-new-crustacean-species-matter">Why new crustacean species matter</h2>



Foreign organisms can be more than a scientific curiosity. They can bring serious economic and environmental consequences. 



Sometimes, they feed on shellfish or disrupt fisheries. Tourism can also suffer if non-native pests degrade coral reefs or affect coastal recreation. 



While not all alien species become full-blown problems, the possibility remains. That is why prompt discovery is so significant.&nbsp;



“Invasive alien species are a major cause of biodiversity loss,” notes the <a href="https://iucn.org/our-work/biodiversity" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IUCN</a> (International Union for Conservation of Nature).



When local ecosystems lose certain species to competition or predation, the broader food web may suffer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-calls-for-wider-monitoring">Calls for wider monitoring</h2>



Scientists advise that Israel’s National Monitoring Program increase its capacity to track these types of arrivals. Installing ARMS at newly developed coastal sites and shipping points could help gather more consistent information.&nbsp;



Some experts also believe that a wider regional push would be beneficial. If neighboring countries used the same approaches, they could share results and identify potential issues sooner. 



This might prevent a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-deep-sea-crustacean-species-discovered-in-the-bahamas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">newly arrived crustacean</a> or fish from spreading unnoticed across international boundaries. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-for-these-new-crustacean-species">What's next for these new crustacean species?</h2>



In addition to official programs, private operators of marinas or industrial sites could adopt more thorough procedures. Using ARMS as an early warning tool, they might recognize invasive hitchhikers before they disrupt existing habitats.&nbsp;



The reason many professionals keep sounding the alarm is clear. Sometimes, small changes in ocean life pass under the radar until entire fisheries notice declines in catch or find that new diseases have entered the ecosystem. Swift, standardized methods can act like an insurance plan for marine environments.



Monitoring and intervention go hand in hand. Information from the ARMS approach can guide where to focus limited resources. 



If a newly arrived species shows signs of becoming a hazard, an immediate response might keep that threat under control. 



The recent discoveries in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-mediterranean-nearly-lost-all-of-its-water-6-million-years-ago/">Mediterranean</a> mark a call to action for all stakeholders. It might seem daunting, but the tools and knowledge are now available to keep this region healthier and more stable in the years ahead.&nbsp;



Details of the full study were published in the <a href="https://www.reabic.net/journals/mbi/2024/4/MBI_2024_Galil_etal.pdf">Management of Biological Invasions</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.



-----

New invasive crustacean species discovered in the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean Sea has always been a hotspot for marine...

Nature often surprises us with its ingenious adaptations, and the cricket frog is no exception. Native to Virginia and North Carolina, these tiny frogs display an ability that seems almost magical: moving across water as if it were solid ground. 



Known as “skittering,” this behavior has intrigued scientists and inspired visions of futuristic technologies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-capabilities-of-cricket-frogs">Capabilities of cricket frogs</h2>



Jake Socha, a professor of mechanical engineering, and his research team at <a href="https://www.vt.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virginia Tech</a> have examined this phenomenon.



“The humble cricket <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-frog-day-addressing-environmental-threats-to-frogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frog</a> lives nearby, and yet it still surprised us with its capabilities, further motivating our curiosity to understand the living world,” said Professor Socha.



The research, published in the&nbsp;Journal of Experimental Biology, challenges popular notions about how frogs traverse water.



“Skittering is not actually a well-defined word for this behavior. Part of this research is not only studying this behavior in cricket frogs but to try and give ‘skittering’ a more precise, scientific definition,” explained study lead author and graduate researcher Talia Weiss.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cricket-frogs-don-t-walk-on-water">Cricket frogs don’t walk on water</h2>



Using high-speed cameras shooting at 500 frames per second, the team captured the frogs’ motions in astonishing detail. 



Contrary to the idea that these frogs glide effortlessly across water, the footage revealed something unexpected: the frogs sink between each leap.



“It’s fascinating how easily we can be fooled by fast animal movements,” said Professor Socha. “Here, we’re fooled by a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frog-saunas-hot-solution-to-fighting-global-amphibian-extinction-apocalypse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frog</a> that appears like a skipping stone, but is actually jumping and dunking multiple times in a row.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leaping-frogs-resemble-dolphins-jumping">Leaping frogs resemble dolphins jumping</h2>



The movement of cricket frogs, often mistaken for walking on water, is better described as "porpoising," a motion similar to the way dolphins leap in and out of the water. 



Unlike true walking, this behavior involves distinct stages within each jump cycle, which researchers broke down into four key phases:



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Takeoff: The frog begins completely submerged in water. Using its powerful hind legs, it pushes off against the water, propelling its body upward and into the air. This explosive motion provides the energy needed for the leap.</li>



<li>Aerial: While in mid-air, the frog's legs remain extended, providing balance and stability during its short flight. This phase gives the impression that the frog is gracefully skipping across the water.</li>



<li>Re-entry: The frog's front legs are the first to contact the water as it descends. The rest of the body follows, creating a splash and breaking the water's surface as it sinks back under.</li>



<li>Recovery: Once submerged, the frog rapidly retracts its legs to prepare for the next jump. This resetting phase ensures the frog is ready to push off again almost immediately.</li>
</ol>



Each of these phases occurs in less than a second, allowing the frog to perform up to eight consecutive jumps in quick succession. This rapid, repetitive motion creates the illusion that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-economic-strategy-could-save-endangered-frogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frog</a> is walking or skipping on water, though it is actually sinking and leaping continuously. 



The efficiency and speed of these movements highlight the cricket frog’s unique adaptations for this behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-frog-movement-inspires-robots">Frog movement inspires robots</h2>



Understanding the mechanics of skittering has implications far beyond biology. This unique locomotion could inspire innovations in robotics and engineering. For instance, amphibious drones designed for water testing or rescue missions might mimic the cricket frog’s efficient movements.



“Frogs are great jumpers, but most of them don’t exhibit this porpoising behavior, and we still don’t know why,” noted Professor Socha. “Is there something special about the frog’s leap, or is it simply a matter of small body size?”



This research highlights how studying even the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/puddle-frogs-have-a-secret-weapon-against-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smallest creatures</a> can lead to big discoveries. The cricket frog’s seemingly simple movement holds secrets that may shape the future of technology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cricket-frogs-built-for-skittering-on-water">Cricket frogs: Built for skittering on water</h2>



Cricket frogs may be small, but their anatomy is a masterpiece of adaptation. Their ability to skitter across water is no accident; it’s the result of finely tuned physical traits that allow them to excel at leaping, sinking, and jumping again.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-hind-legs">Powerful hind legs</h3>



The cricket frog’s hind legs are disproportionately long and muscular for its tiny body. These legs provide the explosive force needed to propel the frog both on land and through water. 



Their large, well-developed muscles allow for rapid extension and retraction, making it possible to perform consecutive jumps in quick succession.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lightweight-body">Lightweight body</h3>



Weighing less than many other frogs, cricket frogs benefit from a lightweight frame. This reduces resistance when they re-enter the water after a jump, helping them maintain momentum. Their small size also means they create minimal drag during movement.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flexible-joints">Flexible joints</h3>



Their joints, particularly in the hind legs, are highly flexible. This flexibility enables the frogs to fully extend their legs during the takeoff phase and then rapidly retract them underwater to reset for the next leap.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-streamlined-body-shape">Streamlined body shape</h3>



The cricket frog’s body is slightly flattened, which may help reduce resistance during re-entry into the water. This streamlined shape allows for smoother transitions between aerial and submerged phases of their movement.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-adaptations">Skin adaptations</h3>



The frog’s skin plays a subtle but critical role. Smooth and water-resistant, it minimizes friction as the frog moves in and out of the water. This feature also helps maintain buoyancy and allows for quicker movement beneath the surface.



Ultimately, the cricket frog’s body is a perfect example of how evolution tailors physical traits to meet specific survival needs. Each aspect of the frogs' anatomy, from powerful legs to streamlined bodies, contributes to their ability to skitter on water.&nbsp;



The study is published in the <a href="https://journals.biologists.com/jeb/article-abstract/227/22/jeb249403/363001/Skittering-locomotion-in-cricket-frogs-a-form-of?redirectedFrom=fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Experimental 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.



-----

Cricket frogs can literally walk on water as if it were dry land

Nature often surprises us with its ingenious adaptations, and the...

Scientists have long pondered how evolution resulted in the development of both herbivores and carnivores. To understand this, it is important to clarify what type of food did extinct vertebrates eat. But how can we know what the diets of these creatures were?&nbsp;



While in living animals we can directly observe what they feed on, in the case of extinct species researchers must rely on morphological or chemical information supplied by fossils.&nbsp;



Now, a research team led by professor Thomas Tütken from <a href="https://www.uni-mainz.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz</a> (JGU) has compiled a reference framework of isotope compositions for modern reptiles. This dataset stands to improve our ability to identify the diets of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-secrets-of-the-evolution-of-prehistoric-reptiles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient reptiles</a>, including dinosaurs.



“This reptile reference framework is a convenient toolbox that will enable us to better reconstruct the diet of extinct animals, such as dinosaurs,” Tütken explained. “A set of comparable data of this kind has not previously been available.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diverse-diets-of-modern-reptiles">Diverse diets of modern reptiles </h2>



Today's reptiles showcase a remarkable range of diets, from strictly plant-based to exclusively carnivorous. Many also exhibit specialized feeding preferences, such as the marine iguana in the Galapagos, which eats only algae, or chameleons, which subsist solely on insects.&nbsp;



Gila monsters prefer eggs, while top predators like the saltwater crocodile and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/komodo-dragons-have-iron-tipped-teeth-to-rip-apart-flesh/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Komodo dragon</a> feed entirely on meat. “This diversity makes it difficult to reconstruct the nutritional habits of extinct animals,” Tütken said.



The oldest known ancestors of modern reptiles lived more than 300 million years ago; for instance, the 315-million-year-old Hylonomus resembled a lizard. These early reptiles often bore skulls, jaws, and teeth indicative of insectivory.&nbsp;



The point in geological history when they transitioned from insect-eating to purely carnivorous or herbivorous diets remains unclear.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-a-geochemical-reference">Building a geochemical reference</h2>



In creating their new framework, Tütken’s team examined 28 modern reptile species by measuring calcium and strontium isotopes in their bones and teeth, which offer chemical clues about what these animals eat.&nbsp;



“To obtain a wide spectrum for comparison, we selected reptiles with pronounced herbivorous or carnivorous behavior, and we also included those with specialized dietary preferences,” Tütken noted. The list included alligators, monitor lizards, chameleons, and more.



Focusing on calcium isotopes, the researchers highlighted the ratio of calcium-44 to calcium-42. They observed a clear trend in which these isotope concentrations decreased at every step in the food chain.&nbsp;



“Overall, the values are highest in insectivorous reptiles, clearly differentiating these from animals with other feeding behaviors,” said lead author Michael Weber, a paleontologist at JGU.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-detecting-unique-feeding-patterns-nbsp">Detecting unique feeding patterns&nbsp;</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forest-biodiversity-benefits-from-large-herbivores-like-elephants-and-moose/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Herbivores</a> showed lower isotope ratios, while carnivores presented the lowest levels. This approach even allowed them to detect unique feeding patterns, such as the algae diet of marine iguanas and the egg-based diet of other reptiles. The team also examined stable strontium-88 to strontium-86 ratios.&nbsp;



“We set up the first extensive reference system of stable strontium isotopes as a dietary proxy. The results for strontium are largely consistent with those for calcium isotopes in respect of the various nutritional forms,” explained study co-author and paleontologist Katrin Weber.&nbsp;



However, strontium is more vulnerable to alteration over time, making calcium isotopes the more reliable measure for extinct species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comparing-reptiles-to-mammals">Comparing reptiles to mammals</h2>



In analyzing these isotopes, the researchers discovered that reptiles show greater calcium isotope variability than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-mammals-have-evolved-over-66-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mammals</a>, even under similar dietary regimes.&nbsp;



This phenomenon is believed to stem from physiological differences, and it illustrates why mammal-based data cannot directly determine the diets of prehistoric reptiles such as dinosaurs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teeth-wear-patterns-and-animal-diets">Teeth wear patterns and animal diets</h2>



Beyond chemical traces, the scientists also investigated the mechanical wear patterns on modern reptile teeth, collecting data in collaboration with Dr. Daniela Winkler at <a href="https://www.uni-kiel.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kiel University</a>.&nbsp;



Scratches on tooth surfaces reveal whether an animal consumed tough materials such as shells or bones, or softer foods.&nbsp;



When combined with isotope data, these wear patterns can distinguish faunivores that ingested abrasive substances from those relying on soft food sources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-the-diets-of-extinct-species">Discovering the diets of extinct species</h2>



“In order to understand and interpret the data for chemical and mechanical patterns of nutritional behavior from fossil finds, we first had to determine the corresponding information for related modern species with their known dietary preferences,” said Tütken.



“As a result, we now have a reference frame for comparison that enables the precise diet assessment and thus a more accurate reconstruction of the feeding habits of extinct species.”



The study forms part of a larger initiative led by Tütken, who in 2016 received an ERC Consolidator Grant to examine the feeding habits of early land vertebrates.&nbsp;



By combining geochemical and mechanical evidence, Tütken’s team has created an essential resource for scientists to unravel the mystery of what ancient reptiles - and possibly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-tracks-discovered-on-uks-dinosaur-highway/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaurs</a> - might have eaten, guiding us toward a deeper understanding of evolutionary history.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2024.2002" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B</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.



-----

Reptiles provide new clues about the diets of extinct animals

Scientists have long pondered how evolution resulted in the development...

Overfishing, illegal fishing, and the rising market for shark meat are putting over 80 species of sharks and rays in the Mediterranean Sea at serious risk.&nbsp;



A recent study highlights these threats and emphasizes the urgent need for improved strategies to conserve these vulnerable species, known as elasmobranchs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regional-legislation-and-conservation-efforts">Regional legislation and conservation efforts</h2>



Researchers examined existing protective measures for elasmobranchs across 22 Mediterranean coastal states, stretching from Spain and Morocco to Israel, Lebanon, and Syria. They identified more than 200 measures - ranging from national legislation to NGO-led conservation efforts - addressing various aspects of elasmobranch protection.



European Union (EU) countries generally implemented more of these measures than non-EU countries, with Spain having the highest count. The study found that governments were responsible for 63% of these measures, primarily focusing on legal requirements.&nbsp;



However, significant differences were noted in how effectively these laws are monitored, with no single source tracking national progress on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sharks-need-better-protection-to-maintain-functional-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shark</a> conservation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-protection-is-needed-for-mediterranean-sharks">More protection is needed for Mediterranean sharks</h2>



Although legislation to protect them exists, sharks are increasingly being caught both intentionally and accidentally, often to meet the growing demand for their products.&nbsp;



The study calls for enhanced monitoring at landing sites and better control measures. It also emphasizes the importance of public education and providing incentives for fishers to use equipment that minimizes harm to shark species.



Lydia Koehler is an associate lecturer at the <a href="https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Plymouth</a> and a member of the <a href="https://iucn.org/our-union/commissions/iucn-world-commission-environmental-law-2021-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IUCN World Commission on Environmental Law</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;



&nbsp;“Sharks have been part of the marine ecosystem for millions of years with an evolutionary history that predates the dinosaurs. There are over 1,000 species of elasmobranchs worldwide, and they fulfil a variety of ecological roles, whether as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-happens-when-an-apex-predator-goes-missing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">apex predators</a> that maintain healthy populations of prey species or a food source for other predators,” said Koehler.&nbsp;



“However, many shark species in the Mediterranean have seen drastic declines in the past few decades with over half of the species being threatened by extinction, largely due to overfishing and related pressures such as bycatch. Finding effective ways to conserve them is, therefore, of critical importance.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-shark-conservation">Challenges in shark conservation</h2>



The study uncovered substantial differences in conservation efforts among Mediterranean countries, which may be influenced by varying resources, expertise, and political will.&nbsp;



“This study has shown substantial differences in countries’ efforts around shark conservation. That may be linked to access to resources, available expertise and capacities, and a general willingness to develop and implement measures in light of other competing pressures,” said Jason Lowther, an associate professor of law at the University of Plymouth.&nbsp;



According to Professor Lowther, achieving positive outcomes for these species requires not only government support but also sustained political will across election periods and a steadfast long-term commitment to driving change.



“It also requires the integration of communities in the Mediterranean region, and our view is that this work presents a starting point in that process.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recommendations-for-protecting-sharks">Recommendations for protecting sharks</h2>



Based on their findings, the researchers have proposed several strategies to better conserve elasmobranch species in the Mediterranean.



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Increase transparency: Improve reporting templates to enable detailed tracking of conservation actions and recognize contributions from various stakeholders.</li>



<li>Engage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fishing-communities-cooperate-to-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing communities</a>: Expand cooperation with local fishers and integrate social science insights to develop effective governance strategies that consider community dependencies.</li>



<li>Extend spatial conservation measures: Enhance management and objectives of existing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-fall-short-on-2030-biodiversity-targets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine protected areas</a> that host sharks to improve conservation outcomes.</li>



<li>Increase compliance to reduce bycatch: Strengthen the enforcement of existing laws to decrease incidental shark captures and improve data on bycatch.</li>



<li>Expand funding: Seek additional funding opportunities, especially for collaborative cross-country initiatives aimed at protecting threatened shark and ray species.</li>



<li>Tailor research to policy needs: Coordinate research across the region to provide robust data for stock assessments and a deeper understanding of population trends, which can inform better regulatory measures.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-toward-a-sustainable-future">Moving toward a sustainable future</h2>



The study calls for concerted efforts to protect sharks and rays, emphasizing that legislative measures alone are insufficient without proper monitoring and community involvement.&nbsp;



By improving transparency, promoting cooperation with the fishing industry, and enhancing enforcement, stakeholders can work towards effective conservation strategies.



Sharks play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, and their decline poses significant risks to ocean health.&nbsp;



This research provides a critical foundation for future efforts to preserve these species, highlighting the importance of sustained political will, interdisciplinary research, and community engagement in safeguarding the Mediterranean's marine biodiversity.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2024.110930" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biological 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.



-----

Mediterranean sharks face growing threats despite conservation efforts

Overfishing, illegal fishing, and the rising market for shark meat...

Nature’s connections can show up in the most unassuming places. For decades, people have watched curiously as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-fill-a-150-year-gap-in-biodiversity-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ants</a> collect seeds. These seeds often come with a fatty attachment that entices ants to take them underground, which is a nifty tactic employed by plants to get their seeds dispersed.  



This strategy, known as <a href="https://www.jstor.org/stable/2259181" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">myrmecochory</a>, has guided ecological thinking for many years. Recent observations have shaken up this old concept, as a surprising twist has come from an unlikely source: oak galls produced by certain wasps.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ants-and-wasps">Ants and wasps</h2>



Eight-year-old Hugo noticed something puzzling one afternoon. He saw a small parade of ants scurrying across a path, hauling what he assumed were regular seeds. 



His father, named Andrew Deans, took a closer look and realized these were oak galls, not plant seeds. 



Galls are growths shaped by wasps to ensure a safe shelter in which their larvae can develop. Hugo’s discovery launched fresh inquiries into how wasps might be tricking ants into unwittingly providing protection and resources for their developing young.



<a href="https://ento.psu.edu/directory/ard19" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Andrew Deans</a> is a professor of entomology at <a href="https://www.psu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a>. His experiences with insect classification and ecology helped shape the next steps in understanding how certain wasps manipulate ant behavior. 



Working with other <a href="https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/10.1086/720283" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">researchers</a>, he looked at the structure and chemical makeup of the oak galls, aiming to see whether these odd lumps mimic the enticing attachments found on seeds. 



That line of inquiry opened the door to a bigger story about insect collaboration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-lure-of-fatty-acids">The lure of fatty acids</h2>



Research into seed dispersal has <a href="https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-94-017-0173-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shown</a> that ants love fatty acids, which they harvest from specialized structures on seeds. 



Many oak galls have a similar coating, sometimes called a <a href="https://www.schoolofhealth.com/docs/SOH/Provings/Proving_of_Oak_Galls_BLK_FINAL.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hood</a>, that contains these appealing molecules. 



Once ants bring the gall inside their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ant-nests-could-help-humans-build-better-transportation-systems/">nest</a>, they devour the fatty portion but leave the rest. Within that intact shell, the wasp larvae stay hidden from predators. 



The parallels between seeds and galls have stirred fresh debate among entomologists.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-camouflage">Chemical camouflage</h2>



The biggest revelation for many scientists is that these gall hoods may imitate the scent of deceased insects.



“It’s amazing how these structures mimic the chemical profile of dead insects, one of the main food sources for ants,” said <a href="https://ento.psu.edu/directory/jft11" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">John Tooker</a>, professor of entomology at the <a href="https://www.upenn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Pennsylvania</a>. 



This discovery sheds light on a possible reason behind the ants’ brisk retrieval of galls. They are likely to think they have found a reliable meal, but end up giving wasp larvae a free ride and shelter instead.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ants-wasps-and-evolution">Ants, wasps, and evolution</h2>



Millions of years before humans paid attention to them, galls were a feature on oak trees. Fossil records <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11831666/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">show</a> that wasps and oaks have had a long relationship, although it is not clear when ants became part of the mix. 



Some experts <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25993346/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">propose</a> that wasps first persuaded oaks to create galls and then evolved ways to draw ants into the equation. Others believe the ants’ interest in fatty acids nudged the wasps toward this chemical strategy.



Nature relies on countless overlapping interactions. These gall-making <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bees-and-wasps-use-the-same-nest-building-tricks-despite-independent-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wasps</a> provide another example of how two different insects might develop a shared connection that benefits one party more than the other. 



While ants enjoy a quick snack from the gall’s fatty hood, the wasp larvae receive a safe refuge for their development. 



This unintentional partnership hints at how life weaves complex networks that bind different species together, often in ways that scientists have missed. Each time new details emerge, the broader narrative of ecological ties evolves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-nudge-toward-conservation">A nudge toward conservation</h2>



“This should make us think about how much we still don’t know about ecosystems and the need to preserve biodiversity,” reflected Andrew Deans. 



The researchers stressed the importance of keeping ecosystems intact to maintain these intricate ties. 



Oak trees, and the wasps that make use of them, face threats from habitat decline and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-are-shifting-to-new-habitats-to-cope-with-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changing climates</a>, which could unsettle the entire chain of relationships. 



When environments shift, the ants, the galls, and the plants lose a vital piece of the puzzle that supports their survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-curiosity-leads">Where curiosity leads</h2>



Hugo’s brief observation highlights how small moments can spark big changes in what we know. Nobody expected a child’s quiet stroll to upend familiar ideas. Researchers are now curious to see if other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-silent-language-decoding-the-chemical-signals-of-insects/">insects</a> use similar methods to coerce ants.&nbsp;



By peering into everyday wonders, people can gain a deeper appreciation of how species interact. Each fresh insight builds on the last, emphasizing the value of patient exploration and open minds in science.



The research findings were published in <a href="https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/10.1086/720283">The American Naturalist</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.



-----

An 8-year-old’s backyard discovery about ants  changed Earth science

Nature’s connections can show up in the most unassuming places....

Ants, often considered simple creatures, have shown a surprising ability to learn from experience. A study led by Dr. Volker Nehring and doctoral student Mélanie Bey from the University of Freiburg reveals that ants can modify their behavior based on past encounters. 



Published in the journal Current Biology, the research sheds new light on how these social insects interact with their environment and competitors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ants-remember-encounters-with-rivals">Ants remember encounters with rivals</h2>



The researchers from the <a href="https://uni-freiburg.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Freiburg</a> studied how ants interacted with members of rival nests. They designed controlled experiments to observe if ants could recall past interactions and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-work-in-groups-more-successfully-than-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adjust their behavior</a> accordingly.



The results revealed that ants could indeed remember their encounters. When ants had faced aggression from members of a particular nest, they displayed heightened aggression toward those nest members in future encounters. 



On the other hand, ants that had only encountered passive members of a nest were noticeably less aggressive toward them later. This shows that the ants' behavior was shaped by their experiences rather than being purely instinctual.



“We often have the idea that insects function like pre-programmed robots,” said Dr. Nehring. “Our study provides new evidence that, on the contrary, ants also learn from their experiences and can hold a grudge.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ants-identity-rivals-through-scent">Ants identity rivals through scent</h2>



Ants use odors as a key tool to recognize members of their own nest and to distinguish rivals. Each nest has its own unique scent, which helps ants determine whether another ant belongs to their group or is an outsider.



Earlier studies showed that ants tend to act more aggressively toward rival ants from nearby nests compared to those from nests farther away. However, the underlying reason for this pattern wasn’t fully understood.



Dr. Nehring's research uncovered that memory plays an important role in this behavior. Ants don’t just recognize rivals by scent in the moment; they also remember the specific odor of attackers they previously encountered.



If an ant remembers a rival as aggressive, it will respond with heightened aggression when it meets that rival again. This confirms that ants are not just reacting instinctively but are also using past experiences to shape their behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-the-learning-abilities-of-ants">Observing the learning abilities of ants</h2>



The researchers conducted their study in two carefully designed phases to investigate how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-are-now-using-cars-to-travel-spread-to-new-locations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ants</a> respond to different types of encounters with rivals.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-phase">Learning phase</h3>



In this phase, ants were exposed to three distinct groups: ants from their own nest; aggressive ants from a rival nest (Nest A); and aggressive ants from another rival nest (Nest B).



Over five consecutive days, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-fill-a-150-year-gap-in-biodiversity-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ants</a> had one-minute encounters with these groups. These repeated interactions allowed the ants to form specific memories of their experiences with each group.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-phase">Testing phase</h3>



In this phase, the researchers observed how the ants behaved when they encountered rivals from Nest A. The results showed a clear difference in behavior:



Ants that had previously interacted with aggressive rivals from Nest A showed significantly more aggression toward members of Nest A.



Ants that had no prior encounters with Nest A, or those that only interacted with members of their own nest, were much less aggressive.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-second-experiment">Second experiment</h3>



To explore how the nature of encounters influenced ants learning and behavior, the team modified the experiment. They included interactions with passive ants, ensuring passivity by disabling their ability to fight (e.g., by cutting off their antennae).



Ants that had only encountered passive rivals displayed significantly less aggression in later encounters.



These results demonstrated that ants’ behavior is shaped by their specific experiences. Aggressive past interactions led to heightened aggression, while encounters with passive rivals resulted in a calmer response. This highlights the ability of ants to learn and adapt based on their interactions.



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



This discovery challenges long-standing assumptions about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-destabilizing-ant-plant-relationships/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insect behavior</a>. 



The team now plans to explore whether ants adapt their olfactory receptors based on their experiences. Such adaptations could reflect learned behaviors at the sensory level.



Ants, far from being robotic, show an intricate blend of instinct and experience-based learning. This research not only deepens our understanding of ant behavior but also opens doors to exploring learning mechanisms in other social insects.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(24)01595-1" 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.



-----

Ants 'hold a grudge' against aggressive rivals

Ants, often considered simple creatures, have shown a surprising ability...

The ocean has always held a special appeal for those fascinated by life’s boundless creativity. Its waters teem with organisms of all shapes and sizes, from delicate plankton to majestic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ship-routes-overlap-with-92-of-whale-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a>.



Every so often, researchers stumble upon a find that prompts fresh questions about how living things adapt to harsh conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-surprising-labyrinth-under-the-crust">A surprising labyrinth under the crust</h2>



A recent expedition discovered giant ocean worms inside hidden underwater cavities in the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/East_Pacific_Rise" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">East Pacific Rise</a>, a volcanically active region between tectonic plates. 



These cramped spaces (previously assumed to hold only microorganisms) were investigated during an exploration based from the Schmidt Ocean Institute’s research <a href="https://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/technology/vessels/falkor/falkor.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vessel Falkor</a>. 



Using a remotely controlled submarine called <a href="https://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/technology/subs/subastian/subastian.html#" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SuB-astian</a>, the mission lifted pieces of the crust to get a peek at what lies beneath.



Soon after this startling find, Dr. Monika Bright and Dr. Sabine Gollner, who led the research, shared the <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-52631-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">details of this discovery</a> in the Nature Communications journal. 



Their goal was to illustrate how worms, snails, and chemosynthetic bacteria can live in conditions once believed to be too hostile for such complex life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giant-worms-and-ocean-vents">Giant worms and ocean vents</h2>



“It was once believed that only microbes and viruses inhabited the subseafloor crust beneath hydrothermal vents. Yet, on the seafloor, animals like the giant tubeworm <a href="https://www.mbari.org/animal/giant-tubeworm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Riftia pachyptila</a> thrive,” noted the study’s abstract.&nbsp;



Geologists have long known that volcanic and tectonic activity shape <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-swot-satellite-mission-maps-earths-ocean-floors-from-space-in-stunning-detail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean floors</a>, but the idea of animals clustering inside warm pockets below the surface feels like something straight out of a sci-fi plot. 



These tubeworms, which can reach lengths of up to about 1.6 feet (0.5 meters) survive thanks to chemosynthetic bacteria that turn inorganic chemicals into nutrients.



The discovery team found that the creatures use these hidden cavities as natural shelters. Compared to open waters, the temperature there can be surprisingly moderate, estimated at around 75 °F (24 °C). That heat arises from geologic activity, but the conditions still seemed extreme.&nbsp;



“It’s amazing to discover how life finds ways to thrive in such extreme environments,” said <a href="https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9322-9258" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gollner</a> who was a co-author on the publication. 



Researchers had traditionally assumed the animals were restricted to visible <a href="https://press.princeton.edu/books/paperback/9780691049298/the-ecology-of-deep-sea-hydrothermal-vents?srsltid=AfmBOoq1IcXWc3HDJAMAJM-Z-e6o_KnQr5G9OyXplF0ojn3aS7FhX0gN" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">h</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sea-hydrothermal-vents-provide-clues-about-the-origin-of-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ydrothermal vents</a>, yet their presence in dark cracks below the ocean floor shows just how resourceful life can be when space and nutrients are available.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surface-and-subsurface-life">Surface and subsurface life</h2>



The recent findings suggest these worms might navigate through subterranean channels, hinting at the idea that there may be a bigger web of life under the seafloor. 



By carefully removing pieces of lava rock, the team found pockets of water that harbored large tubeworms, snails, and other organisms. Bright believes this hidden network is not just a curious footnote; it represents an underexplored ecosystem.&nbsp;



“We must not only protect what is on the surface, but also what lives below, as both are essential to the health of this ecosystem,” said <a href="https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7066-1363" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bright</a>, who is a professor of zoology and marine biology at the <a href="https://www.univie.ac.at/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vienna</a>.



This new perspective lines up with <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17841485/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">past work</a> showing that hydrothermal vents are more than random hotspots for unique fauna. 



Experts have discovered that vents can host dense bacterial communities, which, in turn, power the growth of specialized animals. 



Tubeworms flourish in these areas, relying on local chemical reactions that produce nutrients, rather than on the photosynthetic activities of plants. 



Now, scientists realize these same processes may extend farther beneath the crust than previously suspected.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-ocean-worms-matter">Why ocean worms matter</h2>



One of the biggest lessons from this study is how little we know about life in extreme places. Over the years, seafloor research has uncovered living creatures in hydrothermal vents worldwide.&nbsp;



Evidence of these surprisingly diverse species dates back to initial expeditions in the late 1970s. Yet each new expedition seems to reveal fresh twists. 



The chance to study fauna in cavities hints at possibly larger underground habitats. It also shows that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sea-mining-forms-dust-clouds-that-devastate-marine-life/">marine life</a> has countless ways to spread, feeding renewed curiosity about how species reach new areas.



Another key point lies in the importance of protecting these sites. When scientists learned about vents and the unique creatures that call them home, it drew attention to how vulnerable deep-sea habitats can be.&nbsp;



Proposals for deep-sea mining, as well as accidental damage to vents during resource extraction, might disrupt these fragile ecosystems.



The hidden communities of ocean worms under the surface may be even more exposed if drilling, dredging, or other activities disturb their environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-refining-our-understanding">Refining our understanding</h2>



The study also provides fresh data to shape broader conversations about conservation. Many scientists have called for careful management of vents, especially as commercial interests in the sea floor continue to grow.&nbsp;



Defenders of these sites note that the full scope of deep-sea biodiversity is unknown. If giant worms and other animals thrive beyond our view, damaging vents could have a ripple effect on organisms we have yet to discover.



A careful balance is needed between scientific exploration and resource extraction. Public interest in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predatory-worms-were-terror-beasts-half-a-billion-years-ago/">giant worms</a> might sound like a novelty, but the broader significance is about how life adapts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-worms-and-future-research">Ocean worms and future research</h2>



It’s no longer safe to assume that darkness and pressure in the depths of the ocean shut the door on bigger forms of life. 



In truth, the ocean has proven time and again that it can host creatures in the most unlikely nooks and crannies.



Ongoing research will likely target more hidden pockets beneath vent systems. Improved submersibles and advanced sensor technology will help detect additional unseen communities.&nbsp;



Marine biologists, chemists, and geologists are eager to see how these organisms function within their habitats and whether similar setups exist in other regions with volcanic activity. 



This new area of exploration could pave the way for a deeper appreciation of life’s capacity to adapt, even in seemingly impossible conditions.



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-floor-harbors-up-to-11-million-tons-of-plastic-debris/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean’s depths</a> have always kept their secrets well, and these recent findings open up new questions about what lies under the seafloor. 



Scientists will continue to follow these clues, driven by a desire to learn how nature always seems to push the boundaries of survival



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-52631-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</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.



-----

Giant marine worms found living under the ocean floor

The ocean has always held a special appeal for those...

Birds sing, call, and chirp for various reasons - finding mates, fending off predators, or simply enjoying their melodies. But what shapes the diversity of bird sounds remains a fascinating mystery.



Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison set out to unravel this enigma. Their study is shedding light on why birds produce specific sounds and at what frequencies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-many-sounds-of-birds">The many sounds of birds</h2>



Birds produce a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-songs-human-speech-common-vocal-genetic-origin-syrinx/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wide variety of sounds</a>, each serving distinct purposes in their daily lives. Songs, often complex and melodic, are primarily used by male birds during mating seasons to attract mates or establish territory. 



Calls, simpler and shorter than songs, help with everyday communication, like warning of predators or coordinating with flock members. Some species use mimicry, imitating sounds from their environment or other animals to confuse threats or attract mates. 



Others, like woodpeckers, create drumming sounds by pecking on surfaces to signal territory. This diversity in sounds reflects birds’ adaptability and creativity in navigating their environments and interactions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-global-first-in-bird-sound-research">A global first in bird sound research</h2>



The study was led by doctoral student H.S. Sathya Chandra Sagar and Professor Zuzana Buřivalová. The team analyzed over 100,000 bird audio recordings from xeno-canto, a global bird-watching repository.



The recordings represented 77% of known bird species, making this research the most comprehensive exploration of bird acoustics to date.



The findings, published in&nbsp;the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B, revealed key insights into how habitat, geography, body size, and beak shape influence <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-turn-bird-dreams-into-captivating-music/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird</a> sounds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-shapes-bird-sounds">What shapes bird sounds?</h2>



The study highlighted several important patterns:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitat-influences-sound-frequency">Habitat influences sound frequency</h3>



Birds adapt their calls to ensure they are audible in different environments. For instance, in areas with rushing water, the constant sound creates low-frequency background noise that could drown out their calls. 



To overcome this, birds sing at higher frequencies, which stand out against the lower-pitched noise of the water. This adaptation helps them effectively communicate with other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-species-extinctions-are-far-more-impactful-than-we-realized/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> despite the challenging acoustic environment.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geography-shapes-sound-similarities">Geography shapes sound similarities</h3>



Birds living in similar geographic regions, such as those at the same latitudes, often produce comparable sounds. This pattern indicates that environmental factors specific to these areas - like climate, vegetation, or available food - influence how birds develop and use their calls.



These similarities provide valuable insights into the evolutionary processes that shape bird communication, showing how their sounds adapt to the unique challenges and opportunities of their habitats. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-body-size-and-beak-shape">Body size and beak shape</h3>



Smaller birds make higher-pitched sounds, while larger birds produce lower ones. Interestingly, small birds can also make a wider range of sounds, using high-pitched calls to communicate and low-pitched ones to confuse predators about their actual size. 



For example, canaries and wrens use high-pitched calls for communication, while owls and crows produce low-pitched sounds for territory and long-distance signaling.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-soundscapes-and-conservation">Soundscapes and conservation</h2>



This research not only improves our understanding of bird communication but also broadens insights into&nbsp;soundscapes - the combination of all sounds in a specific environment, including bird calls, water, and wind.



Soundscapes are valuable tools in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-behavior-productivity-being-directly-impacted-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> because they reflect the health and biodiversity of ecosystems.



“There’s very little that we know about the forces that govern soundscapes,” noted Sagar. By identifying missing low-frequency sounds, researchers could infer human impacts, such as hunting, on larger bird populations.



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



Sagar plans to build on his research by analyzing 24-hour soundscape recordings to study how birds adapt the timing of their songs in noisy environments. This approach could reveal how birds navigate communication challenges in habitats filled with competing sounds.



Citizen scientists and birdwatchers play a key role by contributing recordings to platforms like xeno-canto, expanding the global data available for analysis. 



Sagar also emphasized the connection between bird calls and human impacts. In regions like the tropics, where larger birds are often hunted for meat, the absence of low-frequency calls - typical of larger birds - could indicate increased hunting activity.



This research not only lays the groundwork for future studies but also provides a novel way to monitor ecosystem health through soundscapes. 



By understanding the patterns in bird sounds, scientists can gain deeper insights into biodiversity, conservation, and the pressures affecting wildlife. Every recorded bird call brings us closer to uncovering the secrets of the natural world's complex soundscape.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2024.1908" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological 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.



-----

Habitat and evolution shape the unique sounds of birds

Birds sing, call, and chirp for various reasons - finding...

Recreational activities on mountain trails are pushing large carnivores like grizzly bears and wolves away from their native habitats, even when those trails lie hundreds of meters from where the animals roam.&nbsp;



A new study from the <a href="https://www.ualberta.ca/en/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Alberta</a> highlights the need for improved land management practices that allow people and wildlife to peacefully coexist. 



This issue is particularly pressing in the Bow River Valley, long recognized as a natural corridor linking the prairies to the Continental Divide.



Over the past 15 years, a team of researchers led by Peter Thompson set up camera traps at more than 1,600 sites in the Bow River Valley and surrounding areas. 



These traps were in place between 2007 and 2022, capturing over a million images of humans and tens of thousands of images of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grizzly-bears-help-huckleberries-thrive-in-a-changing-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grizzly bears</a> and wolves.



The scientists then used statistical models to assess the relationship between human activity and carnivore presence on the landscape.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-recreation-and-large-carnivores-nbsp">Human recreation and large carnivores&nbsp;</h2>



Upon examining the images and activity patterns, the researchers discovered a significant disturbance effect from busy trails, extending far beyond the immediate path.&nbsp;



The results showed that wolves and bears did not merely avoid the immediate vicinity of high-traffic areas; they stayed away from locations hundreds of meters away as well.



Thompson, formerly a postdoctoral fellow with Colleen Cassady St. Clair in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Alberta, is now a postdoctoral fellow at <a href="https://www.sfu.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Simon Fraser University</a>.



“We initially thought bears might use hiking trails as efficient routes when humans weren’t around, but they actually avoid these areas altogether,” said Thompson.



“Our results show that human recreation has significant effects on wildlife, substantially influencing their behaviour even hundreds of meters away from the trail.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-widespread-displacement-of-large-carnivores-nbsp">Widespread displacement of large carnivores&nbsp;</h2>



For grizzly bears, half of the displacement effect from high-use trails remained in effect up to 300 meters from the trail. For wolves, this displacement was observed up to 600 meters away. Thompson noted that the phenomenon is considerably more extensive than was previously believed.



“When trails become busier, people may not realize the extent to which they are disrupting wildlife movement and habitat security,” Thompson added.&nbsp;



This finding demonstrates that outdoor enthusiasts using high-traffic trails, especially in popular regions, could unknowingly be displacing wolves and bears from substantial parts of their natural habitat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effects-of-recreation-on-wolves-nbsp">Effects of recreation on wolves&nbsp;</h2>



While grizzly bears are visibly impacted by busy trails, the displacement effect was even more pronounced for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gray-wolves-are-a-crucial-component-of-the-american-west/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wolves</a>. Their avoidance of human activity at distances of up to 600 meters likely relates to their year-round activity cycle, which intersects with winter recreation such as skiing and snowmobiling.&nbsp;



This further highlights how multiple forms of recreation can compound the stress on top predators.



“Wolves are even more affected by human recreation than grizzly bears, and they are active year-round, coinciding with winter recreational activities,” said St. Clair, Thompson’s former supervisor.&nbsp;



“This research highlights the critical need to manage human use in a way that allows people to share the landscape with these wary predators.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigating-the-impacts-on-large-carnivores-nbsp">Mitigating the impacts on large carnivores&nbsp;</h2>



The Bow River Valley is particularly significant for wildlife, functioning as a key passageway for many species.&nbsp;



Shifts in animal movement due to human traffic on trails could compromise the valley’s role as a corridor for genetic exchange and resource access.&nbsp;



If large carnivores are consistently deterred from these areas, the consequences could include altered feeding patterns, reduced breeding success, and changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/danger-zones-climate-change-is-altering-predator-prey-dynamics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predator-prey dynamics</a>.



Land managers in this region may consider strategies such as creating buffer zones, limiting trail access during peak activity times, or issuing guidelines that reduce disturbance in critical wildlife areas.&nbsp;



Such steps might help maintain the valley’s ecological function and ensure that grizzlies, wolves, and other species can continue to move freely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-thoughtful-recreation-planning">Need for thoughtful recreation planning</h2>



The paper’s authors emphasize that as recreational use of mountain trails grows, the effects on wildlife will likewise increase.&nbsp;



Raising awareness about how trail use displaces animals, even far from the trail itself, could encourage more responsible behavior among outdoor enthusiasts.&nbsp;



Measures such as seasonal trail closures, visitor education programs, and designated wildlife corridors could help minimize the disruption to grizzly bears, wolves, and other sensitive species.



The findings in the Bow River Valley also reflect broader challenges faced worldwide as conservation areas strive to balance human recreation with wildlife protection.&nbsp;



By taking preemptive steps - whether through trail design, user quotas, or educational outreach - policymakers and conservation managers can better safeguard critical habitats for large carnivores and foster a more harmonious coexistence between people and nature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reevaluating-our-use-of-mountain-trails-nbsp">Reevaluating our use of mountain trails&nbsp;</h2>



This study provides actionable insights into how recreational activities influence the distribution and well-being of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/apex-predators-can-help-restore-ecosystems-but-not-immediately/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">apex predators</a>.&nbsp;



With wolves and bears essential to ecosystem balance, preventing their displacement has ecological significance beyond individual species.&nbsp;&nbsp;



According to Thompson, these results show that human recreation has significant effects on wildlife, and these findings are a call to reevaluate how we manage and use mountain trails.&nbsp;



Through careful planning and targeted conservation efforts, there is hope that humans and large carnivores can continue to share these magnificent landscapes for generations to come.



The study is published in the <a href="https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1365-2664.14837" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Applied Ecology</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.



-----

Mountain recreation displaces large carnivores from their habitats

Recreational activities on mountain trails are pushing large carnivores like...

In a stunning new discovery, a team of researchers from the Universities of Oxford and Birmingham have unearthed a massive expanse of quarry floor filled with hundreds of different dinosaur footprints, creating a variety of enormous trackways.&nbsp;



These footprints, located at Dewars Farm Quarry in Oxfordshire, date back to the Middle Jurassic Period, approximately 166 million years ago.&nbsp;



According to the scientists, these trackways form part of a huge “dinosaur highway” and include footprints from the nine-meter predator Megalosaurus, as well as from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/isle-of-wight-fossils-suggest-that-europe-had-unique-plant-eating-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">herbivorous dinosaurs</a> that were up to twice that size.



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



"The Dinosaur Highway" refers to a stretch of coastline in the southeast of England, particularly around the Isle of Wight and the Jurassic Coast in Dorset. This area is famous for its rich fossil deposits, where dinosaur tracks and fossils have been discovered. 



The Isle of Wight, often called the "Dinosaur Island," is especially known for having some of the best-preserved dinosaur footprints in the world. 



Scientists have found evidence of many different species that lived millions of years ago, from plant-eating herbivores to massive carnivorous predators.



The Jurassic Coast, a <a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNESCO World Heritage site</a>, stretches across Dorset and East Devon and is another key part of this "Dinosaur Highway." 



This coastline is not just home to dinosaur fossils but also offers a stunning view of Earth's geological history, with layers of rock dating back to the Mesozoic era.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extensive-trackways-on-the-dinosaur-highway">Extensive trackways on the dinosaur highway</h2>



The excavation uncovered five main trackways, with indications of additional footprints in the surrounding area. One trackway spans over 150 meters. 



Four of the trackways were traced to gigantic, long-necked sauropods, likely Cetiosaurus, reaching up to 18 meters in length. 



The fifth belonged to a carnivorous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-theropod-dinosaurs-thrived-in-polar-environments/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">theropod</a> dinosaur, Megalosaurus, recognized by its large, three-toed footprints. 



In one section, sauropod footprints and Megalosaurus tracks intersect, hinting at the possibility of these dinosaurs encountering each other in this prehistoric setting.



“Scientists have known about and been studying Megalosaurus for longer than any other dinosaur on Earth, and yet these recent discoveries prove there is still new evidence of these animals out there, waiting to be found,” said Emma Nicholls, a vertebrate paleontologist at the <a href="https://www.oumnh.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxford University Museum of Natural History</a> (OUMNH).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovery-sparked-by-keen-observations">Discovery sparked by keen observations</h2>



The footprints lay hidden under mud until quarry worker Gary Johnson noticed “unusual bumps” while clearing clay to expose the quarry floor. At that point, experts were brought in to investigate the site more closely.&nbsp;



Supported by Quarry Manager Mark Stanway and his staff, a large research team from the Universities of <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxford</a> and <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Birmingham</a> spent a week in June 2024 carefully revealing around 200 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/matching-dinosaur-footprints-on-different-continents-trace-their-global-travels-gondwana/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">footprints</a>.&nbsp;



They used aerial drone photography to build highly detailed 3D models, ensuring the footprints are documented for future scientific research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-link-to-previous-finds">A link to previous finds</h2>



These new trackways connect with discoveries made in the same area in 1997. Past limestone quarrying had then revealed over 40 sets of footprints, some stretching 180 meters.&nbsp;



The earlier finds provided crucial insight into the types of dinosaurs that roamed the United Kingdom during the Middle Jurassic and helped establish the location as a “Site of Special Scientific Interest.”



Nevertheless, technology at that time did not allow for extensive digital or drone-based documentation. Modern techniques permit much more thorough recording of footprints, yielding a deeper understanding of dinosaur biology and behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-window-into-ancient-environments">A window into ancient environments</h2>



“These footprints offer an extraordinary window into the lives of dinosaurs, revealing details about their movements, interactions, and the tropical environment they inhabited,” said Kirsty Edgar, a micropaleontologist at the University of Birmingham.&nbsp;



More than 20,000 images were taken of the prints, forming a valuable resource for further study. Scientists hope this archive will help them reconstruct details about how dinosaurs moved, their potential speeds, and whether and how they may have interacted.



Beyond footprints, the site’s rich geological context can offer insight into its ancient environment, a muddy lagoon where these creatures walked millennia ago.&nbsp;



“The preservation is so detailed that we can see how the mud was deformed as the dinosaur’s feet squelched in and out. Along with other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossils-capture-a-turning-point-in-the-evolution-of-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossils</a> like burrows, shells and plants, we can bring to life the muddy lagoon environment the dinosaurs walked through,” said Duncan Murdock, an Earth scientist at OUMNH.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viewing-fossils-from-the-dinosaur-highway">Viewing fossils from the dinosaur highway</h2>



BBC’s Digging for Britain covered the excavation as part of a new series, set to be shown on iPlayer from January 7 and on BBC2 on January 8, 2025. 



Hosted by Professor Alice Roberts, the program delves into the significance of the trackways and how they inform modern dinosaur research.



The discovery will also appear in the upcoming “Breaking Ground” exhibition at the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, illustrating major turning points in our knowledge of Earth’s and life’s history.&nbsp;



Visitors can view original Megalosaurus fossils alongside images and video from the site, learning about cutting-edge paleontological tools and techniques.



These extensive trackways in Oxfordshire not only deepen our view of the Middle Jurassic but also demonstrate the power of modern technology to transform and enrich our understanding of the distant past.



-----



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.



-----

Hundreds of new and unique footprints found on the "dinosaur highway"

In a stunning new discovery, a team of researchers from...

<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