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>.



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

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

A new study led by researchers at Dartmouth College proposes a method to enlist the help of immense populations of zooplankton in reducing atmospheric carbon. 



The plan is to convert CO2 into food that these creatures will consume and send deep into the ocean through their carbon-rich waste. 



This approach aims to enhance the ocean’s natural carbon removal process - known as the biological pump - by stimulating the zooplankton’s appetite.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-clay-dust-to-capture-carbon">Using clay dust to capture carbon</h2>



The key innovation involves spreading clay dust across the ocean’s surface after massive algae blooms, which can cover hundreds of square miles.&nbsp;



As these blooms die, marine bacteria normally consume the resulting particulate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-alkalinity-may-safely-boost-the-carbon-storage-capacity-of-seawater/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a>, sending it back into the atmosphere.&nbsp;



Instead, clay dust attaches to the carbon particulates, transforming them into tiny, sticky pellets.&nbsp;



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zooplankton-are-rapidly-escalating-the-threat-of-nanoplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zooplankton</a>, unable to differentiate between these clay-carbon pellets and their natural food, consume them and later excrete them far below the surface , effectively storing the carbon in the deep ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-zooplankton-poop-in-carbon-capture">The role of zooplankton poop in carbon capture</h2>



“The novelty of our method is using clay to make the biological pump more efficient - the zooplankton generate clay-laden poops that sink faster,” said Mukul Sharma, the study’s corresponding author and a professor of earth sciences at <a href="https://home.dartmouth.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dartmouth College</a>.&nbsp;



Once digested, the clay-enriched carbon is deposited at lower depths, where it may remain for millennia.&nbsp;



By accelerating the ocean’s capacity to trap carbon, this technique could offer a strategic intervention for mitigating climate change.&nbsp;



The approach also takes advantage of “marine snow” - a continuous shower of organic matter, minerals, and dead organisms - which serves as a conduit for transferring nutrients and carbon to deeper waters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zooplankton-poop-and-carbon-storage">Zooplankton poop and carbon storage</h2>



“This particulate material is what these little guys are designed to eat. Our experiments showed they cannot tell if it's clay and phytoplankton or only phytoplankton , they just eat it,” Sharma said.&nbsp;



“And when they poop it out, they are hundreds of meters below the surface and the carbon is, too.”&nbsp;



In laboratory experiments, the team tested water collected from the Gulf of Maine during a 2023 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-have-caused-toxic-algae-blooms-since-the-bronze-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">algae bloom</a>.&nbsp;



The results confirmed that when clay dust binds to organic carbon left behind by dying algae, marine bacteria produce a sticky substance that causes the clay and organic carbon to form flocs - small, cohesive clusters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-field-testing-and-future-research-directions">Field testing and future research directions</h2>



The experiments revealed that the introduction of clay dust captured as much as half of the carbon released by dead phytoplankton, preventing it from re-entering the atmosphere.&nbsp;



The presence of clay also increased the concentration of sticky organic particles, boosting their capacity to trap additional carbon on the journey downward.&nbsp;



Adding clay reduced the numbers of bacteria that drive carbon back into the atmosphere, reinforcing the carbon’s downward path.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-deployment-on-a-larger-scale">Exploring deployment on a larger scale</h2>



Earlier studies by co-authors Manasi Desai and David Fields from the <a href="https://www.bigelow.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences</a> showed that clay flocs consumed and excreted by zooplankton do indeed sink more quickly.&nbsp;



The team’s next goal is to test the approach by releasing clay onto <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/invisible-forest-of-phytoplankton-thrives-in-a-warming-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phytoplankton</a> blooms off Southern California’s coast.&nbsp;



By placing sensors at various depths, researchers hope to identify the best deployment conditions and measure the carbon moved into the deep ocean, optimizing both timing and location.



“It is very important to find the right oceanographic setting to do this work. You cannot go around willy-nilly dumping clay everywhere,” Sharma noted.&nbsp;



“We need to understand the efficiency first at different depths so we can understand the best places to initiate this process before we put it to work. We are not there yet - we are at the beginning.”



If successful, this novel method could present a proactive solution to climate change, leveraging natural marine processes to store carbon away from the atmosphere and guiding future policy and environmental strategies.



The findings were presented at the <a href="https://www.agu.org/annual-meeting" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Geophysical Union annual conference</a> in Washington, D.C.



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Zooplankton poop can be used to store carbon in the deep ocean

A new study led by researchers at Dartmouth College proposes...

Turns out, giraffes have a distaste for inclines. The tall, majestic, and gracefully lumbering creatures of Africa's grasslands aren’t fans of hilly terrain and actively avoid slopes greater than 20 degrees. 



These findings, set to be presented at the British Ecological Society’s (BES) Annual Meeting in Liverpool, underline critical implications for giraffe conservation efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giraffes-avoid-steep-slopes">Giraffes avoid steep slopes</h2>



In a new study, experts monitored the movements of 33 GPS-collared <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giraffes-are-suffering-a-silent-extinction-and-need-more-protection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">giraffes</a> in South Africa.



The results showed that giraffes avoid steep slopes due to the energy required to navigate them and the risk of falling. Researchers found that giraffes tolerate gradients of up to 12° only when these lead to areas with favorable vegetation.



“We often think of giraffes roaming in large, flat grassland savannas in Africa, but that's not really their true habitat. There are also rolling hills, deep riverbeds, and high plateaus,” noted Jessica Granweiler, a PhD candidate at the <a href="https://www.manchester.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Manchester</a> and the study presenter.



“Our study shows that giraffes much prefer flat areas. They will tolerate some steepness to access food, but simply cannot access areas above a 20° gradient. It's quite shocking when you look at distribution maps.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-challenges-of-steep-terrain">Conservation challenges of steep terrain </h2>



The findings reveal a stark mismatch between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-giraffe-day-2024-a-towering-celebration-of-the-gentle-giants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">giraffes</a>’ preferred habitats, including flat areas and gentle slopes, and the locations of many protected reserves.



By applying the 20° gradient threshold, the researchers calculated the amount of inaccessible land for giraffes in key African countries. For example, in Namibia and Tanzania, nearly 8,000 km² of habitat, about half the size of Wales, is unusable for giraffes.



Similarly, in Kenya and South Africa, about 4,000 km² of land is inaccessible. Alarmingly, one-third of the countries analyzed had more unsuitable terrain within protected reserves than outside them.



“If a reserve is, say, 200 hectares but has a large mountain in the middle, from a giraffe’s perspective, this reserve is not 200 hectares anymore. We need to start including topography in giraffe conservation planning and habitat assessments, especially for small fenced reserves,” said Granweiler.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giraffe-conservation-must-address-slopes">Giraffe conservation must address slopes</h2>



Current habitat suitability models often focus on factors such as vegetation, predation, and human disturbance - neglecting the role of topography.



This oversight may result in conservation efforts that fail to meet giraffes’ ecological needs. The study highlights the necessity of integrating geographic and physical limitations into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-four-unique-giraffe-species-across-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat assessments</a>.



“Steep and rugged environments are challenging for large-bodied animals, like giraffes. Unfortunately, natural and protected areas are more likely to be placed in such places, which can lead to a mismatch between the landscapes animals ‘want’ to use and the landscapes that we have ‘left’ for them,” noted Professor Susanne Shultz.



“Incorporating geography and physical limitations in habitat assessments can help avoid conserving animals in inappropriate places.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analyzing-giraffes-around-slopes">Analyzing giraffes around slopes</h2>



The research repurposed GPS data collected from 2011 to 2023 by Dr. Francois Deacon’s team at the <a href="https://www.ufs.ac.za" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of the Free State</a>, South Africa. 



This dataset included information from 33 giraffes, comprising 10 males and 23 females, across five reserves in South Africa. By combining the GPS data with topographic maps, the researchers identified the slopes giraffes could and couldn’t navigate.



“The more awareness we can bring to giraffe ecology, the more research effort there will be on this species in the future,” said Dr. Francois Deacon.



“The fact that we are still discovering major limitations or drivers of their ecology and behaviour is worrying. But research like ours helps closing this gap in knowledge and will help better management and conservation of giraffes in the future.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bigger-picture-for-giraffe-conservation">Bigger picture for giraffe conservation</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-precarious-state-of-kordofan-giraffes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Giraffes</a> inhabit 21 African countries, but their populations have been declining due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. 



Conservation initiatives are vital for their survival. This study highlights the importance of considering topography in conservation planning to ensure suitable habitats for giraffes.



“Giraffes are tolerant animals and resilient to many things like food availability and human pressures, but this is a scenario where they simply may not be able to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giraffes-gained-their-long-necks-for-food-not-sex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adapt</a> due to physiological limits,” Granweiler concluded.



By addressing these challenges, conservationists can create more effective strategies to protect giraffes, their habitats, and the slopes they rely on.



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Giraffes hate slopes, and it’s threatening their survival

Turns out, giraffes have a distaste for inclines. The tall,...

Dogs aren't just pets - they are members of the family. So naturally, you would want them to live a happy and healthy life for as long as possible.



A recent study from the <a href="https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Liverpool</a> sheds light on when dogs are considered to reach "old age" and the common health challenges they face as seniors.



Published in the&nbsp;Journal of Small Animal Practice, the research provides valuable guidance for dog owners aiming to ensure their pets enjoy healthy and comfortable golden years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-do-dogs-reach-old-age">When do dogs reach old age?</h2>



The experts analyzed veterinary electronic health records (EHRs) to determine the average age at which dogs are classified as old by veterinarians. On average, dogs enter old age at 12.5 years. However, this milestone varies by breed:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Smaller breeds:&nbsp;Jack Russell Terriers and similar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-use-soundboards-to-express-their-needs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">breeds</a> tend to age more slowly, reaching old age closer to 14 years.</li>



<li>Larger breeds:&nbsp;Labrador Retrievers and other large breeds are considered old much earlier, around 12 years.</li>
</ul>



The findings highlight that aging is not a "one-size-fits-all" process, with breed-specific differences playing a key role.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-common-health-issues-in-senior-dogs">Common health issues in senior dogs</h2>



The research identified five major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chernobyl-dogs-are-rapidly-evolving-in-strange-ways-due-to-nuclear-radiation-exposure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health concerns</a> frequently affecting older dogs:



<ol start="1" class="wp-block-list">
<li>Weight-related issues (35%):&nbsp;This includes being overweight, underweight, or experiencing weight loss.</li>



<li>Musculoskeletal problems (33%):&nbsp;Conditions like stiffness and mobility challenges are prevalent.</li>



<li>Dental Conditions (31%):&nbsp;Problems range from tartar buildup to periodontal disease.</li>



<li>Skin-related problems (28%):&nbsp;Lumps, infections, and hair loss are common.</li>



<li>Digestive issues (22%): Symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea are often observed.</li>
</ol>



"This study allowed us for the first time to examine when vets start noting that dogs are now in a stage of their life where they consider them to be 'elderly' or 'senior,'" said Professor Carri Westgarth, who led the research.



"By analyzing what signs owners were noticing and conditions the vets were diagnosing, we can improve our understanding of how to provide the best care for our dogs."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-caring-for-senior-dogs">Caring for senior dogs</h2>



The study provides valuable advice for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-and-dogs-were-bonding-much-earlier-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pet owners</a> to ensure their aging dogs remain healthy and happy:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understand-breed-specific-aging-needs">Understand breed-specific aging needs</h3>



Different dog breeds age at different rates, and each breed may face unique health challenges as they get older. 



By learning how your dog’s breed typically ages, you can better prepare for issues they may encounter and provide the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/this-simple-technique-instantly-reduces-heat-stress-in-dogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">best care</a> at the right time.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-address-common-conditions-early">Address common conditions early</h3>



Older dogs often experience specific health issues such as weight problems (either overweight, underweight, or weight loss), dental issues (like tartar build-up or gum disease), and mobility challenges (such as joint stiffness). 



By addressing these problems early, you can help prevent them from becoming more serious or affecting your dog’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-human-speech-changes-when-we-talk-to-dogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quality of life</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-schedule-regular-vet-visits">Schedule regular vet visits</h3>



Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for catching health problems early. During these visits, the vet can identify any signs of aging-related issues, like arthritis or heart conditions, and suggest preventive measures or treatments. 



Early detection can significantly improve your dog’s chances of living a longer, healthier life.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-provide-a-balanced-diet">Provide a balanced diet</h3>



As dogs age, their nutritional needs change. It’s important to adjust their diet to ensure they’re getting the right balance of nutrients, especially to maintain a healthy weight and support joint, heart, and digestive health. Consult your vet for age-appropriate food recommendations.



Based on the study’s findings, the researchers developed the Ageing Canine Toolkit, which includes a free checklist for owners to monitor signs of aging that might require veterinary advice.



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



This research highlights the importance of tailoring care to your dog’s specific needs as they age. 



"Older dogs are estimated to account for 30% to 40% of patients seen in veterinary practice," noted the researchers. "Their health can be negatively impacted by a wide variety of age-associated issues affecting all body systems; as a result, the healthcare needs of dogs change as they age."



By understanding the unique aging patterns of different breeds and being proactive about common health issues, dog owners can make a significant difference in their pets' quality of life as they grow older. 



The study is published in the <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jsap.13809" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Small Animal Practice</a>. 



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Dogs' healthcare needs change as they enter 'old age'

Dogs aren't just pets - they are members of the...

Crocodiles, with their intricate head scales and striking physical features, exemplify the awe-inspiring morphological diversity found across life on Earth. 



This profound variety, particularly in reptiles, sparks curiosity about the forces that shape such traits. Why do these differences occur? Genetics, you may presume, and you wouldn't be entirely incorrect.



However, a recent study by an interdisciplinary team from the <a href="https://www.unige.ch/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Geneva</a> (UNIGE) is turning heads (and scales). As it turns out, physiological characteristics like the head scales of a crocodile have much to do with the mechanics of growing tissues instead of molecular genetics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-unknown-architects-of-crocodile-scales">The unknown architects of crocodile scales</h2>



Often, the connection between an organism's physicality and genetics feels like an obvious one. Michel Milinkovitch, a professor at the UNIGE Faculty of Science, pursued a more profound understanding of this link.



His research was focused on the evolution and development of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vertebrate-populations-are-not-in-a-global-state-of-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vertebrate</a> skin appendages such as feathers, hair, and scales.



In previous work, Professor Milinkovitch found that the development of crocodile head scales mirrors the propagation of cracks in a mechanically-stressed material.



 A further exploration of this phenomenon led Milinkovitch and his team down a path of extraordinary multi-disciplinary research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-journey-into-the-unknown">A journey into the unknown</h2>



The journey began with observing the embryonic development of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/nile-crocodile-crocodylus-niloticus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nile crocodile</a>. The team noted that the creature's skin remained smooth until approximately 48 days into the expected 90-day gestation period.



Around day 51, skin folds appeared and interconnected to form irregular polygonal scales of varying sizes in different regions of the head.



To determine if the constrained growth of the skin could cause these folds and the subsequent scales, the team introduced a hormone (epidermal growth factor or EGF) known for stimulating skin growth and stiffening to the crocodile eggs. The result was a surprising change in the organization of skin folds.



"We saw that the embryo's skin folds abnormally and forms a labyrinthine network resembling the folds of the human brain," noted study co-authors Gabriel Santos-Durán and Rory Cooper.



Interestingly, once the EGF-treated crocodiles hatched, this brain-like folding simplified into a pattern of much smaller scales akin to those found in another crocodilian species - the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/loss-of-crocodilians-may-have-devastating-consequences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">caiman</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-growth-and-crocodile-scales">Skin growth and crocodile scales </h2>



To better understand how skin growth impacts scale formation, the research team utilized "light sheet microscopy" to measure the growth rate and geometries of various tissues that constitute the embryo's head. 



Using this data, the team created a 3D computer model to simulate skin growth under constraint. They manipulated the specific growth rates and stiffnesses of the tissue layers in the model to evaluate their impacts.



"By exploring these different parameters, we can generate the different head scale shapes corresponding to Nile crocodiles both with or without EGF treatment, as well as the spectacled caiman or the <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/american-alligator-alligator-mississippiensis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American alligator</a>," explained Ebrahim Jahanbakhsh, a computer engineer working with Milinkovitch.



Hence, this study offers powerful evidence that the mechanics of tissue growth can contribute to the diversity of certain anatomical structures across species, without the necessity of intricate molecular genetic factors.



In essence, it appears that nature, in its utmost wisdom, employs a multitude of tools to sculpt the astounding diversity of life that graces our planet.



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



This research not only reshapes our understanding of crocodile scale formation but also challenges traditional views in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/past-climate-change-drove-the-rapid-evolution-of-reptiles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary biology</a>.



By demonstrating that mechanical forces, rather than solely genetic factors, can drive the development of complex anatomical features, the study opens new doors for exploring the evolution of diverse organisms.



Such findings have far-reaching implications, extending to other species with unique morphological traits, such as the patterned scales of snakes, the carapaces of turtles, and even the feathers of birds. 



The findings suggest that environmental and mechanical constraints might play a pivotal role in shaping these traits, alongside genetic blueprints.



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



Moreover, this interdisciplinary approach - blending biology, physics, and computational modeling - could inspire new methods for studying how form and function evolve in both living and extinct species.



By analyzing the physical forces acting on growing tissues, researchers may gain insights into the origins of ancient species and the environmental pressures they faced.



Ultimately, the study highlights the intricate interplay between genetics, mechanics, and evolution, reminding us that nature employs a versatile set of tools to craft the breathtaking diversity of life on Earth.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08268-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Crocodile scales are shaped by tissue growth, not genetics

Crocodiles, with their intricate head scales and striking physical features,...

A new study has uncovered alarming gaps in our understanding of African hippos, highlighting major challenges in conserving these iconic animals. Despite being classified as “vulnerable to extinction” by the IUCN Red List, hippos often don’t get the attention they deserve. 



Known as the “neglected megafauna,” they’ve received far less research and conservation focus compared to other large mammals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hippo-extinction-threat-and-lack-of-data">Hippo extinction threat and lack of data</h2>



Hannah Lacy, a postgraduate researcher at the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leeds</a>, has created a database that maps hippo populations across southern Africa. 



Lacy's team analyzed nearly 200 records from nine countries, including Angola, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. The findings are concerning: in many areas, population estimates for hippos are incomplete or missing altogether.



Even worse, inconsistent survey methods and unequal funding between countries make monitoring unreliable. In some cases, researchers recorded hippos while focusing on other species, leading to scattered and incomplete data, which contributes to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nation-will-slaughter-700-elephants-hippos-zebras-and-other-animals-due-to-drought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">risk of their extinction</a>.



“Without reliable information on where hippos live, and the state of their populations, it is challenging to effectively plan to protect them,” said Lacy.



“We need a centralized spatial database and coordinated surveys to improve the conservation of common hippos - who are important ecosystem engineers - across southern Africa.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-significance-of-hippos">Ecological significance of hippos</h2>



Hippos are more than just large, semi-aquatic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/including-animals-carbon-cycle-models-boosts-ecosystem-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a>; they play a vital role in their ecosystems. By feeding on vegetation along waterways, they shape plant growth, preventing overgrowth that could choke waterways. 



Their dung enriches aquatic food chains, supporting fish and invertebrates, which in turn benefits the larger food web. 



Hippos also create deep waterholes that provide refuge for other animals during dry seasons. They are critical to maintaining biodiversity in their habitats, influencing both aquatic and terrestrial species.



“In many regions, they are also an important attraction for eco-tourism, which contributes to local economies and livelihoods. However, despite their ecological, social, and economic importance, common hippos face numerous threats, primarily from human activities,” noted Lacy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-threats-to-hippos">Growing threats to hippos</h2>



Over the last century, hippo populations have been hit hard by habitat loss, poaching, and conflicts with humans, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/megafauna-extinction-dwarf-elephants-and-hippos-cyprus-directly-linked-to-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pushing them towards extinction</a>.



Current population estimates range from 60,000 to 87,000 across southern Africa, but the lack of detailed data makes effective conservation planning difficult.



The study also revealed that many hippo populations depend on cross-border protected areas called Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs). These areas demonstrate the power of international cooperation in conservation. 



Yet, isolated hippo populations - with limited opportunities to breed - face risks of genetic isolation, endangering their survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-hippos-from-extinction">Protecting hippos from extinction</h2>



The research highlights the urgent need for coordinated efforts to protect hippos from extinction.



Lacy calls for a central database, similar to the African Elephant Database, which has been instrumental in protecting elephants across the continent.



“Their feeding habits shape vegetation patterns along water courses, and their dung contributes to aquatic food webs, supporting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hippos-can-actually-become-airborne-when-they-run-at-full-speed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> like fish and invertebrates,” Lacy reiterated.



“In many regions, they are also an important attraction for eco-tourism, which contributes to local economies and livelihoods. However, despite their ecological, social, and economic importance, common hippos face numerous threats, primarily from human activities.”



Dr. Lochran Traill, Lacy’s PhD supervisor, noted that this work provides an update on the distribution of common hippo populations across southern Africa, and highlights the extent of population fragmentation and isolation.



"Hopefully, this information will be useful to conservation decision makers,” said Dr. Traill.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transforming-conservation-efforts">Transforming conservation efforts</h2>



The fragmented state of hippo populations and inconsistent monitoring methods make immediate action critical. 



Building a comprehensive, centralized database could transform conservation efforts, preventing hippo extinction and ensuring these overlooked animals receive the care and protection they need.



By focusing on hippo conservation, we’re not only safeguarding a unique <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hippopotamus-population-hit-hard-by-habitat-destruction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> but also preserving the ecosystems they help maintain. Lacy’s work shines a light on what is needed to give hippos a better chance for the future.



With international collaboration and sustained effort, these incredible animals can continue to thrive, enriching biodiversity and supporting communities that rely on their presence.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006320724004403?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biological Conservation</a>.



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Missing data on hippos could push them closer to extinction

A new study has uncovered alarming gaps in our understanding...

Our beloved cats face a new cause for concern: a tiny microscopic entity known as the H5N1 virus, more commonly recognized as avian influenza or bird flu.



Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have unearthed compelling evidence of the avian influenza adaptation in domestic cats. 



The experts investigated a rural outbreak in South Dakota, where several outdoor cats succumbed to the virus after exhibiting severe neurological and respiratory symptoms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spread-of-the-bird-flu">Spread of the bird flu</h2>



The highly pathogenic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/efforts-to-control-bird-flu-are-not-working-are-humans-next/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">avian influenza</a> virus (HPAIV) H5N1 first surfaced in China in 1996.



Over the years, the virus has diversified into multiple clades, with clade 2.3.4.4.b emerging as the most geographically widespread. This clade has infected over 90 bird species and 21 mammalian species worldwide, including humans in recent years.



Infections in domestic cats were initially documented in 2004 and linked predominantly to respiratory illness. However, clade 2.3.4.4.b has shown an alarming capacity for neurological impacts in various mammalian hosts, such as sea lions, red foxes, and now domestic cats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-south-dakota-outbreak">South Dakota outbreak</h2>



In April 2024, ten outdoor cats from rural South Dakota were reported dead after displaying respiratory and neurological symptoms. 



Researchers performed necropsies on two of the cats at the North Dakota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. 



Tissue samples underwent a comprehensive suite of analyses, including histopathology, quantitative RT-PCR, whole-genome sequencing, phylogenetics, and lectin histochemistry. Pseudovirus binding assays further evaluated receptor compatibility.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-flu-in-domestic-cats">Bird flu in domestic cats</h2>



H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4.b was confirmed in the brain and lungs of the infected cats. 



Genetic analysis revealed a close relationship between the cat isolates and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cattle-may-become-a-permanent-host-for-bird-flu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">H5N1</a> sequences previously identified in South Dakota dairy cattle. 



This suggests potential spillover from infected cattle or birds. Importantly, unique mutations in the cat isolates hinted at potential virus adaptation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neurological-impact-of-the-virus-in-cats">Neurological impact of the virus in cats</h2>



The study revealed severe neurological damage in infected cats, with prominent lesions in the cerebellum and hippocampus. Key findings include:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Neuronal necrosis:&nbsp;Death of nerve cells in critical brain regions.</li>



<li>Gliosis:&nbsp;Proliferation of glial cells in response to injury.</li>



<li>Perivascular inflammation:&nbsp;Immune responses surrounding blood vessels in the brain.</li>



<li>High viral antigen concentrations:&nbsp;Predominantly found in the cerebellum and hippocampus.</li>
</ul>



The viral burden in the brain far exceeded that observed in respiratory tissues, promoting the virus's neurotropic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-bird-flu-manage-to-infect-mammal-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tendencies</a>.



Cats demonstrated co-expression of sialic acid receptors in their lung and brain tissues, compatible with both avian and human influenza viruses. 



This receptor compatibility could enable cross-species transmission and highlights the risks of domestic cats acting as potential bridges for virus adaptation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-cats-in-virus-adaptation">Role of cats in virus adaptation</h2>



The study, titled&nbsp;"Marked Neurotropism and Potential Adaptation of H5N1 Clade 2.3.4.4.b Virus in Naturally Infected Domestic Cats," raises significant public health concerns.



The researchers noted that cats could serve as hosts for reassortment between avian and mammalian influenza <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/avian-flu-is-now-spreading-from-mammal-to-mammal-alarming-health-officials/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">viruses</a>. This scenario could facilitate the emergence of novel influenza strains capable of infecting humans.



“Cats could act like mutation mixing vessels,” the study warns, posing a risk for genetic reassortment and eventual cat-to-human transmission. Although no human cases linked to cats have been reported yet, this possibility demands vigilance.



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



The findings from the <a href="https://www.pitt.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Pittsburgh</a> study mirror earlier reports from Texas, where H5N1 outbreaks on cattle farms were linked to deaths in cats and birds.



Such cases highlight the necessity for enhanced surveillance of H5N1 in both domestic and wildlife species to assess and mitigate the risk of animal-to-human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-infection-equips-the-body-to-fight-off-the-flu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transmission</a>.



The adaptation of H5N1 in domestic cats highlights the virus's ability to cross species barriers and adapt to mammalian hosts. 



With unique mutations identified in key viral proteins and evidence of systemic infections in cats, the potential for zoonotic transmission cannot be ignored. Enhanced surveillance and preventive measures are critical to curbing this emerging threat.



Vigilance and proactive measures can help mitigate the risks posed by H5N1 adaptation in domestic and wild animals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-cats-from-bird-flu">Protecting cats from bird flu</h2>



The following tips can help protect cats from the deadly virus:



<ol start="1" class="wp-block-list">
<li>Keep cats indoors:&nbsp;Prevent outdoor exposure, especially in areas where H5N1 outbreaks in birds or mammals are reported.</li>



<li>Monitor wildlife:&nbsp;Reduce interactions between domestic cats and wildlife, such as birds or small mammals, to lower infection risks.</li>



<li>Hygiene practices:&nbsp;Wash hands thoroughly after handling birds or cleaning areas where wild birds may have been.</li>



<li>Avoid feeding raw meat:&nbsp;Ensure cats do not consume raw or undercooked poultry or wild game, as these can harbor the virus.</li>



<li>Stay informed:&nbsp;Keep track of local H5N1 updates and follow guidance from veterinarians or public health authorities.</li>



<li>Vaccination research:&nbsp;Consult with your veterinarian about developments in influenza vaccines for pets if living in high-risk regions.</li>
</ol>



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/22221751.2024.2440498" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emerging Microbes &amp; Infections</a>.



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Bird flu outbreak in domestic cats raises new concerns

Our beloved cats face a new cause for concern: a...

In every life that includes a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-communication-what-is-your-pet-trying-to-tell-you/">dog</a>, there comes a heartbreak unlike any other. They arrive in our world full of spirit, and then one day, their time winds down.&nbsp;



Many people do not know what to look for or what to expect. There is confusion, sadness, and worry, and no amount of condolences from friends and family can stop the emotions from flowing. 



The death of a pet, especially a dog, is a very difficult subject, but there are signs that can help us understand what is happening.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-losing-interest-in-old-routines">Losing interest in old routines</h2>



When dogs are nearing their final stage, they may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed. 



A friend that once tugged at the leash, ready to trot outside, might suddenly ignore the door, choose to rest instead of walk, or even decline a short stroll. 



This shift may indicate that the body is no longer functioning as it once did. 



<a href="https://www.petmd.com/author/dr-leslie-gillette" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Leslie Gillette</a>, a veterinarian at the <a href="https://www.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Florida</a>, emphasizes the importance of bringing your dog to its regular veterinarian if you notice any changes or declines in its health or daily routine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changes-in-appetite-and-habits">Changes in appetite and habits</h2>



Some dogs may lose their appetite and refuse water. Others might suddenly eat more for a short time.&nbsp;



Sometimes there is incontinence, with urine or feces appearing in places they would never have chosen before. There can also be vomiting or diarrhea that worsens their state. 



These unusual actions can mean they are having trouble controlling basic bodily functions. None of these changes are easy to witness, but they may be signs that time is running short.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vital-signs-worth-noting">Vital signs worth noting</h2>



There are known healthy ranges for a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warning-dogs-drinking-from-public-water-sources-is-dangerous/">dog’s body temperature</a>, heartbeat, and breathing rate. If these shift too high or too low, something is off. 



A dog’s body temperature is usually between 101° to 102.5° Fahrenheit. If numbers stray beyond normal limits, it could mean the end is near. 



It is useful to know how to check these signs. A rise or drop in temperature, labored breathing, or a weakened pulse can all be indications of health issues that should be addressed immediately.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-facing-severe-exhaustion">Facing severe exhaustion</h2>



One of the most difficult moments comes when a dog stops responding to those who love it. The pet that once lifted its head to a kind voice may lie still for hours. 



The paws that paced the floor might remain limp all day. The eyes that followed a favorite human might barely open. They can sink into what appears to be a deep fatigue, lacking the spark that once lit up a room. 



There may be a sense that the dog’s spirit is drifting away. This heavy tiredness is painful to witness, but it speaks volumes about the body’s struggle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quiet-acceptance">Quiet acceptance</h2>



Some dogs seem to find a strange calm as their life winds down and their daily rhythms fade into silence. 



Your pet may no longer fight the slow ache in their bones, choosing not to wait by the window or react to small noises, only accepting gentle touches without lifting their heads. 



This calm state can be hard to understand, but it often arrives in those last days. It might be their way of easing into what comes next.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-offering-comfort">Offering comfort</h2>



When it becomes clear that a dog’s time is short, many people feel helpless. There is no manual that describes the perfect approach.&nbsp;



Some may prefer a silent vigil, sitting by their dog’s side, hoping the presence of a familiar face eases worry. Others place a soft blanket near their pet, or carefully offer a favorite treat, even if it is ignored.&nbsp;



Words may be whispered quietly, telling the dog how much it is loved. The focus shifts from asking the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-get-a-rush-of-the-love-hormone-by-playing-with-dogs/">dog to stay and play</a> to simply helping it feel safe and cared for. 



Though these acts may feel small, they hold tremendous weight in that final chapter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remembering-their-place-in-our-lives">Remembering their place in our lives</h2>



People often say their dogs are family. In the end, a dog’s companionship is measured by years of shared moments. They have been loyal through laughter and tears.&nbsp;



Their exit from this world does not erase the times they greeted us at the door, made us smile when days were heavy, or curled up close when we felt alone. Those memories remain vivid, etched into our hearts, weaving a lasting bond.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-meaningful-farewell">A meaningful farewell</h2>



When a dog reaches the end, the pain that follows can linger, but knowing the signs can help us grant the kindness and gentle care they deserve. Recognizing that a loss is approaching allows space for actions that speak of love.&nbsp;



Some may stay awake through the night, stroking soft fur. Others might talk softly, calling up old stories and recalling the bark that once filled the house.&nbsp;



Although grief is personal, one common thread is the desire to give back some measure of the devotion the dog gave so freely over its lifetime. 



The sadness will not vanish instantly, but there can be comfort in knowing that, in those final days, understanding and compassion shaped the way forward.



The full study was published on the leading pet health and wellness resource <a href="https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/signs-dog-dying" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">website PetMD</a>.



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How dogs say goodbye before they die -- these signs will tell you if your friend is leaving soon

In every life that includes a dog, there comes a...

In an effort to protect sensitive fish species, many recreational fisheries have adopted catch-and-release practices, where fish are returned to the water after being caught.&nbsp;



However, excessive fishing pressure may influence the behavior of target species and jeopardize the sustainability of fisheries.&nbsp;



An international team of biologists, co-led by the <a href="https://www.umass.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Massachusetts Amherst</a> and the <a href="https://www.usf.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of South Florida</a>, along with conservationists and industry partners in Seychelles, set out to determine if this is the case.&nbsp;



The study revealed that a prized sport fish, the giant trevally, is susceptible to high fishing pressure.&nbsp;



This conclusion emerges from a “natural experiment” during the COVID-19-induced closure of the fishery, carrying significant implications for managing the species across the Indian and Pacific oceans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaboration-for-sustainable-fishing-practices">Collaboration for sustainable fishing practices</h2>



Study senior author Andy Danylchuk is a professor of fish conservation at UMass Amherst.&nbsp;



“A few years ago, both the <a href="http://www.islandconservationseychelles.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Island Conservation Society</a>, which promotes conservation in the Seychelles Islands, and the Alphonse Fishing Company (now known as Blue Safari Seychelles Fly Fishing), a flyfishing guide service located in the Seychelles, approached my group concerned about the sustainability of sportfishing in the Seychelles,” explained Danylchuk.



“It was the perfect convergence of a research question that my team cares deeply about - how recreational <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-fishing-must-be-redefined-to-halt-ocean-destruction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing</a> can be a sustainable part of the ‘blue economy’- brought to us by stakeholders looking to implement policies and management guided by science.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unintended-consequences-of-sport-fishing-nbsp">Unintended consequences of sport fishing&nbsp;</h2>



Unlike harvest-oriented recreational fishing, which directly affects population numbers, catch-and-release sport fishing is intended to minimize mortality - theoretically leaving more fish in the water for future anglers.&nbsp;



However, this method can have unforeseen effects. These include increased mortality from hooking fish in critical areas like the gills, post-release predation, altered movements, and “hook shyness.”&nbsp;



Hook shyness occurs when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-foraging-behavior-changing-climate-warming-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish</a> become accustomed to being targeted and subsequently avoid lures or flies, potentially reducing catch rates. This behavioral change is particularly concerning for the giant trevally, a highly sought-after species that attracts anglers willing to spend significant amounts for a memorable catch.&nbsp;



Declining catch rates due to hook shyness could disappoint anglers and negatively impact the local tourism industry. In some cases, local guides might resort to baiting fish with chum to lure them closer, exacerbating behavioral and movement alterations in giant trevally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-sustainability-through-natural-experiments">Investigating sustainability through natural experiments</h2>



Study lead author Lucas Griffin completed this research as part of a post-doctoral fellowship at UMass Amherst. Griffin is now an assistant professor of marine biology at the University of South Florida.&nbsp;



“The Island Conservation Society and the Alphonse Fishing Company wanted to know whether or not the current fishing practices for giant trevally in the Alphonse Group of islands in the Seychelles was sustainable,” said Griffin.&nbsp;



“And so, we’ve been working with them on a series of studies to assess just that.”



The research team utilized acoustic telemetry - implanting transmitters in giant trevally and placing receivers throughout the coastal environment to track individual movements - and a mark-and-recapture program, which involved collaborating with anglers to implant microchips in fish.&nbsp;



These methods allowed the team to monitor how often and where individual fish were caught and released.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-once-in-a-lifetime-natural-experiment">Once-in-a-lifetime natural experiment</h2>



Originally, the researchers planned to conduct short-term closures of various fishing spots to observe giant trevally behavior under natural conditions.&nbsp;



However, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-lockdown-linked-to-dramatic-changes-on-the-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COVID-19</a> pandemic led to an almost two-year shutdown of recreational fishing in the Seychelles, providing an unprecedented natural experiment.&nbsp;



“It’s strange to say, but the pandemic created a once-in-a-lifetime natural experiment,” Griffin remarked. “The entire fishery shut down, so we could really see how giant trevally live in the total absence of fishing pressure.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-fish-respond-to-increased-pressure">How fish respond to increased pressure</h2>



The study found that while giant trevally can adjust their behaviors and movement patterns in response to fishing pressure, they did not significantly alter their behavior during the short-term closures or the extended COVID-19 shutdown.&nbsp;



Over time, however, there is evidence that increased fishing pressure may lead to hook shyness, with some groups of giant trevally shifting their home ranges away from prime fishing spots.&nbsp;



Conversely, the mark-and-recapture data indicated a substantial population of giant trevally, with new individuals entering the fishery potentially offsetting the effects of hook shyness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-fishery-health-and-angler-satisfaction">Balancing fishery health and angler satisfaction</h2>



Overall, the evidence suggests that while giant trevally exhibit resilience to the immediate impacts of catch-and-release, sustained fishing pressure can influence their behavior in ways that may reduce catch rates and affect the angling experience.&nbsp;



Maintaining a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/groundwater-plays-critical-role-ecosystem-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthy ecosystem</a> and ensuring high populations of giant trevally could enhance their resilience to angling pressures.



“We are part of the ecology of these fish,” Griffin said. “If we want to be catching more of them, we may need to consider limiting the number of anglers that target them in any given location.”



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



The findings highlight the necessity of integrating scientific research with fisheries management practices to ensure the long-term sustainability of sport fishing.&nbsp;



By understanding the behavioral responses of target species like the giant trevally, stakeholders can develop informed strategies that balance conservation efforts with economic benefits from tourism and sport fishing.&nbsp;



This study underscores the importance of adaptive management approaches that consider both ecological dynamics and human interests in recreational fishing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-the-sustainability-of-sport-fisheries">Enhancing the sustainability of sport fisheries</h2>



Moving forward, the research team plans to continue monitoring giant trevally populations and behaviors, particularly in relation to varying levels of fishing pressure.&nbsp;



Further studies will aim to refine management practices to mitigate the unintended consequences of catch-and-release fishing and enhance the sustainability of sport fisheries.&nbsp;



By encouraging collaboration between scientists, conservationists, and industry partners, the team aims to promote practices that support both the health of fish populations and the livelihoods of communities dependent on recreational fishing.



This comprehensive approach ensures that sport fishing remains a viable and sustainable activity, preserving the giant trevally and other sensitive species for future generations of anglers and maintaining the ecological integrity of coastal regions.



The study is published in the <a href="https://doi.org/10.1139/cjfas-2023-0329" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences</a>,&nbsp;



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The hidden consequences of catch-and-release sport fishing

In an effort to protect sensitive fish species, many recreational...

The pursuit of fairness has long intrigued philosophers and scientists alike. Do humans hold a unique sense of fairness, or do animals share this trait? 



For years, researchers have debated whether behaviors like jealousy are exclusive to humans or are prevalent among animals as well. A new study from the UC Berkeley sheds new light on this age-old question.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-animal-fairness">Rethinking animal fairness</h2>



Using data from 23 studies, the researchers conducted a meta-analysis involving over 60,000 observations across 18 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chick-emotions-shed-new-light-on-animal-welfare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal</a> species.



This effort, described as the “largest empirical investigation of non-human inequity aversion to date,” examined the concept of fairness as perceived by animals.



“We can’t make the claim that animals experience jealousy based on this data,” said Oded Ritov, a fourth-year Ph.D. candidate in UC Berkeley’s <a href="https://psychology.berkeley.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Psychology</a>. 



“If there is an effect, it’s very weak and might show up in very specific settings. But it’s nothing like what we see in humans in terms of our deep-seated sense of fairness.”



The findings&nbsp;challenge widely held assumptions about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/international-animal-rights-day-2024-honoring-animals-with-justice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal behavior</a>. According to Ritov, the evidence suggests that what might appear as inequity aversion in animals could instead stem from unmet expectations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-fairness-key-to-complex-societies">Human fairness: Key to complex societies</h2>



Humanity’s deep-rooted sense of fairness has played a vital role in building shelters, sharing resources, and developing complex societies. 



This trait, known as “inequity aversion,” refers to our dislike of unequal resource distribution. Psychologists argue that this inclination influences how we judge fairness in everyday scenarios.



For example, consider siblings squabbling over toys. When one receives a seemingly better toy, the other might protest - not just out of envy, but because the distribution feels unfair. This intrinsic reaction is a hallmark of human fairness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-debate-over-animal-fairness">The debate over animal fairness</h2>



The debate over <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-characters-boost-social-and-emotional-skills-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal</a> fairness gained traction after primatologist Frans de Waal’s landmark study. In a now-famous video, capuchin monkeys reacted strongly when given unequal rewards. 



Monkeys receiving cucumber slices appeared content until they noticed others receiving grapes. One monkey, upon receiving a piece of cucumber while another enjoyed a grape, flung the cucumber away in protest.



This behavior was widely interpreted as evidence of inequity aversion. De Waal and others suggested that animals, like humans, dislike unfair treatment. Similar behaviors have been reported in corvids, dogs, and even mice. However, Ritov’s analysis offers a different perspective.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expectations-and-disappointment">Expectations and disappointment </h2>



Ritov’s study highlights potential issues in prior research, including small sample sizes and a replication crisis that undermines broader scientific conclusions. 



“We thought it’d be a valuable contribution to try to pull together as much data as we can on this question and see what kind of pattern emerges with the larger dataset,” Ritov explained.



The emerging pattern suggests that animals’ <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-and-possibly-even-insects-have-emotions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reactions</a> may not reflect jealousy or fairness concerns at all. Instead, these behaviors might stem from unmet expectations.



For instance, in follow-up studies, monkeys reacted with similar outrage when grapes were placed in an empty cage, where no other monkey was present. This finding indicates that the animals’ behavior was less about comparison and more about their own unfulfilled anticipation.



“We think that the rejections are a form of social protest,” Ritov said. “But what animals are protesting isn’t receiving less than someone else. Rather, it seems like they’re protesting the human not treating them as well as they could.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-and-animals-a-shared-frustration">Humans and animals: A shared frustration?</h2>



While the study stops short of equating animal behaviors with human fairness, it does point to a shared frustration with unmet expectations. 



This insight deepens our understanding of animal cognition and its differences from human behavior.



Animals may not resent inequity per se, but they do respond strongly to perceived mistreatment - a reaction that, while distinct, resonates with human experiences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-makes-humans-unique">What makes humans unique</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-way-you-send-emojis-shows-your-attachment-style/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Human</a> inequity aversion stands out for its complexity and depth. Unlike animals, humans possess the cognitive ability to weigh fairness against social, cultural, and ethical norms. 



These layers of reasoning underpin our ability to build and maintain societies where fairness plays a crucial role. Ritov’s work highlights how these traits differentiate us from other species, even as we continue to seek parallels in the animal kingdom.



The study’s findings remind us of the importance of questioning assumptions and interpreting behaviors with care. 



Understanding what truly makes us human requires peeling back the layers of evolution and culture - and sometimes re-evaluating what we thought we knew about our closest animal counterparts.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2024.1452" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a>.



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Animals care more about unmet expectations than fairness

The pursuit of fairness has long intrigued philosophers and scientists...

Mosasaurs are extinct marine reptiles that hold a remarkable place in the history of vertebrate paleontology. Their discovery in 1766 near Maastricht, Netherlands, laid the foundation for studying fossilized backboned animals.



Palaeontologist Michael Polcyn, a leading expert on mosasaurs, has presented the most comprehensive research to date on their early evolution and ecology. On December 16, Polcyn will receive his PhD from Utrecht University for his extensive studies into these fascinating marine reptiles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-mosasaurs">Evolution of mosasaurs</h2>



"Mosasaurs are a textbook example of macroevolution, the emergence of new and distinct groups of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-have-emerged-as-major-source-of-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a>, above the level of species," Polcyn explained.



"Although they have been studied for centuries, new discoveries, novel research approaches, and the application of technology, are still teaching us about their relationships and behaviors, some of which continues to surprise us."



"For example, through the use of detailed comparative anatomy aided by micro-CT scanning technology, we have gained a much better understanding of what group of lizards mosasaurs likely evolved from."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-look-at-ancient-mysteries">A new look at ancient mysteries</h2>



Polcyn used state-of-the-art imaging technologies, such as micro-CT scans, to study the braincase structures of mosasaurs.



These tools not only clarified the evolutionary relationships of mosasaurs but also resolved debates around problematic fossil taxa. This approach provided a better understanding of their origins and evolutionary adaptations.



"This study not only addressed the early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jormungandr-24-foot-lizard-is-a-new-link-in-mosasaur-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a> of the group, but also explored small- and large-scale aspects of their feeding biology," said Polcyn.



A notable highlight of his work involves a specimen found in Angola, which contained the remains of three other mosasaurs in its stomach, including one from the same species.



This extraordinary discovery represented the first known instance of cannibalism in mosasaurs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mosasaurs-adapting-to-life-in-the-sea">Mosasaurs adapting to life in the sea</h2>



Mosasaurs evolved from a group of lizards that ventured into the oceans around 100 million years ago. Over 34 million years, they adapted to a wide range of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pseudosuchians-ancient-crocodile-like-reptile-discovered-brazil/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine environments</a>, occupying diverse ecological niches. 



Alongside many other species, mosasaurs were wiped out 66 million years ago during the mass extinction caused by a meteorite impact.



Despite extensive fossil records from their later evolutionary stages, little is known about the early history of mosasaurs. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-discoveries-and-historical-specimens">New discoveries and historical specimens </h2>



"A relatively large number of fossils are known from the second half of the evolutionary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/australian-dragons-reveal-new-clues-about-the-mysteries-of-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">history</a> of mosasaurs, allowing a good understanding of the relationships among those species, which have been classified into four major groups," Polcyn noted. 



"Much less is known about their early evolutionary history, and how those major groups are related to one another, their origins, and the origin of mosasaurs as a whole."



To address these gaps, the team from <a href="https://www.uu.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Utrecht University</a> leveraged advanced imaging techniques to analyze both new discoveries and historical specimens. 



The findings resolved a long-standing scientific debate. Polcyn concluded that mosasaurs are more closely related to monitor lizards than to snakes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mosasaurs-feeding-behavior-and-cannibalism">Mosasaurs' feeding behavior and cannibalism </h2>



The feeding habits of mosasaurs were also a focal point of Polcyn’s research. The Angola specimen containing three mosasaurs highlights a unique aspect of their predatory behavior. 



"Whether that mosasaur was a scavenger or actively hunted its prey cannot be said with certainty; however, we do have the first documented example of cannibalism in mosasaurs," Polcyn explained. His findings also reveal how mosasaurs processed prey and the relationship between predator and prey sizes.



Polcyn’s dissertation includes a comprehensive study of mosasaur feeding behavior over a period spanning 92 to 66 million years. 



By analyzing a vast global dataset, he uncovered patterns of foraging area segregation and feeding diversity. These insights illuminate how mosasaurs divided resources and evolved their dietary strategies.



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



Michael Polcyn’s research not only enhances our understanding of mosasaur <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-triassic-fossil-gondwanax-paraisensis-may-rewrite-history-of-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a> but also highlights the value of integrating advanced technology with paleontological studies. 



His findings continue to reshape our understanding of these ancient marine predators, offering a deeper glimpse into their complex lives and ecological roles.



As new discoveries emerge, the legacy of mosasaurs serves as a testament to the dynamic nature of paleontology. Their story reminds us how ancient ecosystems still hold untapped secrets waiting to be uncovered.



Image Credit: Andrey Atuchin



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Mosasaurs had fierce survival strategies including cannibalism

Mosasaurs are extinct marine reptiles that hold a remarkable place...

Common murres, resembling flying penguins, thrive in coastal ecosystems, where they dive into the ocean for fish and nest in large colonies along cliffs. Despite their robust appearance, these seabirds face immense threats from warming ocean conditions.



A new study, led by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, sheds light on the devastating effects of marine heat waves on common murres in Alaska.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-counting-murre-carcasses">Counting murre carcasses</h2>



The University of Washington's Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (<a href="https://coasst.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COASST</a>), a citizen science initiative, played a vital role in uncovering the crisis. 



Coastal residents trained by COASST documented alarming numbers of murre carcasses on beaches. In 2020, COASST and other observers reported a mass <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shrinking-sea-ice-makes-it-harder-for-seabirds-to-find-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mortality event</a>, identifying over 62,000 murre carcasses along the West Coast and Alaska. 



In some areas, carcass counts exceeded normal levels by more than 1,000 times.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-heat-waves-on-common-murres">Impact of heat waves on common murres</h2>



The 2020 study, while highlighting the severity of the event, did not determine the total loss following the 2014-2016 marine heat wave known as "the blob." 



The new study fills that gap. By analyzing data from 13 murre colonies surveyed between 2008 and 2022, researchers estimate that 4 million common murres - half of Alaska’s population - died.



In the Gulf of Alaska, colony sizes declined by 50%, while colonies in the eastern Bering Sea saw a staggering 75% decline. The rate of recovery currently remains unknown.



“This study shows clear and surprisingly long-lasting impacts of a marine heat wave on a top marine predator species,” said Julia Parrish, a UW professor of aquatic and fishery sciences and co-author of the study. 



“Importantly, the effect of the heat wave wasn’t via thermal stress on the birds, but rather shifts in the food web leaving murres suddenly and fatally without enough <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seabirds-have-highly-sensitive-beaks-to-locate-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food</a>.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warm-blob-and-its-aftermath">"Warm blob" and its aftermath</h2>



The "warm blob," a patch of unusually warm water spanning from California to Alaska, disrupted ecosystems during its peak from late 2014 through 2016. 



It caused decreased ocean productivity, which led to food shortages for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reef-sharks-are-abandoning-their-homes-due-to-ocean-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine predators</a>, including seabirds. Analysis of murre carcasses confirmed starvation as the primary cause of death during the mass die-off.



Before the heat wave, Alaska housed about 8 million common murres, roughly a quarter of the global population. The murre population in Alaska has since halved in size.



Unlike previous, smaller die-offs, where murres rebounded, they do not appear to be recovering after this event.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-intensifies-marine-heat">Climate change intensifies marine heat</h2>



The “warm blob” represents one of the most extreme marine heat waves recorded, but similar events are becoming more frequent due to climate change. 



A 2023 study, led by many of the same authors, revealed that even a 1°C increase in sea surface temperature over six months triggers seabird mass mortality events.



"Whether the warming comes from a heat wave, El Niño, Arctic sea ice loss or other forces, the message is clear: warmer water means massive ecosystem change and widespread impacts on seabirds," Parrish stated.



“The frequency and intensity of marine bird mortality events is ticking up in lockstep with ocean <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emperor-penguins-are-struggling-to-survive-as-sea-ice-vanishes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming</a>."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-troubling-lack-of-recovery">Troubling lack of recovery</h2>



The persistence of Alaska’s murre population decline highlights a critical challenge. 



The 2023 study suggested seabird populations typically need at least three years to recover from a marine heat wave. However, seven years after “the blob,” Alaska’s murres show no signs of bouncing back.



"We may now be at a tipping point of ecosystem rearrangement where recovery back to pre-die-off abundance is not possible," Parrish warned.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-common-murres-from-heat-waves">Saving common murres from heat waves</h2>



This study highlights the devastating and lasting impacts of marine heat waves on common murres and other marine species. 



With ocean warming intensifying under climate change, the frequency of such events will likely increase. Understanding these changes can inform conservation efforts and mitigate future impacts on vulnerable species.



Furthermore, coordinated global efforts are essential to address climate change and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/south-africa-will-bomb-invasive-mice-eating-seabirds-alive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">safeguard marine ecosystems</a> for future generations.



Co-authors of the study include Brie Drummond and Jared Laufenberg from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, John Piatt from the World Puffin Congress, and Martin Renner of Tern Again Consulting.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adq4330" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Millions of Alaska's seabirds starved to death after intense heat wave

Common murres, resembling flying penguins, thrive in coastal ecosystems, where...

The plains in southwestern Africa are dry, quiet, and tense. In <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-swamp-creature-found-in-namibia-was-an-ambush-predator/">Namibia</a>, a severe drought is making everything uncertain. The situation is so serious that the government has announced that more than 700 wild animals will be killed to provide meat for communities facing desperate times.&nbsp;



The drought is the worst in a century, and officials see no other choice. They say this step might relieve pressure on local resources at a time when close to half the country’s population is struggling with extreme food shortages.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-empty-stomachs-dry-lands">Empty stomachs, dry lands</h2>



Namibia’s varied landscapes and wildlife have long drawn admiration, but now these lands cannot offer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-has-a-water-reservoir-two-miles-deep-enough-to-fill-earths-red-sea/">enough water</a> or nourishment. 



People have watched crops wither and pastures turn to dust. They are facing a level of food insecurity that has rattled daily life. 



The government is under immense pressure to act. It has chosen a path that many find disturbing: sacrificing wildlife to keep citizens alive. 



<a href="https://dlmp.uw.edu/faculty/davis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Jennifer Davis</a>, a wildlife ecologist with Namibia’s Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, has spent years studying these environments and says the current landscape is unrecognizable from what it was just a few years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cuts-that-hurt-everyone">Cuts that hurt everyone</h2>



<a href="https://www.meft.gov.na/files/files/Culling%20of%20Wild-animals%20as%20a%20Result%20of%20Drought.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism in Namibia</a> says that among the more than 700 animals to be slaughtered are 83 elephants, 30 hippos, 60 buffalo, 50 impala, 100 blue wildebeest, and 300 zebras.&nbsp;



Officials indicate these animals will be taken from national parks and communal lands where their numbers have grown beyond what the parched surroundings can sustain.&nbsp;



The government believes that by supplying meat to hungry families, it might ease tension, reduce competition for scarce water, and lower the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-analysis-can-predict-which-animals-are-at-risk-of-extinction/">risk of animals</a> encroaching into villages. Officials claim that this action will help stabilize the region, at least for now.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dry-seasons-and-tough-choices">Dry seasons and tough choices</h2>



The drought in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-swamp-creature-found-in-namibia-was-an-ambush-predator/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Namibia</a> is no passing inconvenience. It is linked to patterns influenced by El Niño and the larger climate crisis. 



The rainfall has been almost nonexistent, and the heat is relentless. Farmlands have not simply struggled; they have failed to produce what was expected. 



Across Namibia, the fields are empty. The global climate conversation often focuses on long-term impacts, but here the consequences are immediate.&nbsp;



Those with empty stomachs are pushing the government to do something drastic. Officials say their move might be the only way to prevent an even worse humanitarian disaster.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emergency-measures-under-pressure">Emergency measures under pressure</h2>



In May 2024, the government declared a state of emergency. Officials say that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-day-using-technology-to-protect-our-natural-world/">wildlife</a> cannot survive if they are competing for resources that barely exist. They see cutting down these populations as a means to help both animals and humans.&nbsp;



Some say that if fewer large mammals roam the countryside, there will be less pressure on rivers and watering holes. 



It might also prevent elephants from wandering into human settlements, where damage and danger are inevitable. The government admits that these problems are piling up, and there seems to be no simple remedy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-following-an-unsettling-pattern">Following an unsettling pattern</h2>



Namibia is not the only country in the region to consider such actions. Botswana allowed elephant hunting in 2019, claiming it would control population growth and reduce conflicts with farmers.&nbsp;



Zimbabwe has also relied on regulated hunting to generate funds for conservation and to minimize animal-human tensions. Critics call these steps a short-term fix that could have long-term consequences.&nbsp;



Supporters insist that these are the only practical responses to a crisis that no one seems able to stop. People continue to argue about the ethics, while governments juggle immediate needs against future consequences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meat-for-the-people-at-the-expense-of-animals">Meat for the people at the expense of animals</h2>



Namibia has a history of using game meat for large community gatherings. This time, the effort is more direct. The government says that since the measure began, more than 150 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nearly-17-million-animals-perished-in-brazilian-wildfires/">animals have been killed</a>, providing approximately 56,875 kilograms of meat to rural areas that need it most.&nbsp;



Officials say this immediate supply of food may bring some relief to people who have seen very little on their plates. The numbers speak to an attempt to offset the losses that ordinary households endure. Yet no one pretends it is a perfect solution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weighing-survival-against-survival">Weighing survival against survival</h2>



Those who watch Namibia from afar often see wide-open landscapes, healthy wildlife, and proud communities. These images do not reflect the stress that the current drought has caused.&nbsp;



Wildlife experts and environmental advocates are worried that removing large numbers of animals will leave a mark on the country’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-megafauna-play-a-key-role-in-maintaining-ecological-balance/">ecology</a>. Others say that when people are hungry, what else can be done?&nbsp;



The tension between protecting wildlife and feeding people has become a harsh reality. No one is celebrating this choice. The idea of killing some animals to help others survive is unsettling but, in these conditions, nothing is simple.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-uncertain-future-for-these-animals">An uncertain future for these animals</h2>



The drought still holds Namibia in its grip, and many wonder how long it will last. Critics fear that these killings are a short-sighted fix.&nbsp;



Supporters believe it might be one of the few ways to handle a terrible situation. The rest of the world watches, curious or horrified, as Namibia tries to find balance in an unforgiving environment.&nbsp;



Officials insist that this step might bring a measure of relief. Still, the question lingers: what happens if the rains do not return soon, and what will this mean for both people and the wildlife that has defined these landscapes for so long?



Details of the animals to be killed are reported in this <a href="https://www.meft.gov.na/files/files/Culling%20of%20Wild-animals%20as%20a%20Result%20of%20Drought.pdf">release</a> from the Namibian Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism.



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Nation will slaughter 700 elephants, hippos, zebras and other animals due to drought

The plains in southwestern Africa are dry, quiet, and tense....

<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.



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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.



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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.



-----



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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>



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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.



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

<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>.



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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...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

[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;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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