Young aspen trees in Yellowstone are doing something they have not done in almost 100 years. Rather than sprouting and being eaten back to nubs by elk and bison, they're actually growing into tall, adult forest trees rising up towards the canopy.



This matters more than it might seem, because it shows what happens when a missing piece of an ecosystem returns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-yellowstone-aspens-and-elk">Yellowstone, aspens, and elk</h2>



In the 1920s, people <a href="https://www.yellowstone.org/wolf-project/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eliminated wolves in Yellowstone</a>. At the time, with limited scientific knowledge, managers believed it was the right thing to do.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/from-wolves-to-dogs-did-domestication-begin-without-human-help/">Without wolves</a>, elk herds grew very large. Elk love to eat aspen shoots - the tender young growth is highly palatable to them.



For roughly 70 years, elk browsed aspen sprouts down to stub height, and the trees couldn't grow. 



If you had walked through Yellowstone in the 1980s, you would have seen many tiny aspen shoots covering the ground, but almost no young trees gaining height. 



The forest's regeneration was stalled. Old trees died, and no new ones replaced them.



In 1995 and 1996, park managers reintroduced wolves into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-supervolcano-eruption-study-sparks-new-debate-on-where-and-when-it-will-erupt/">Yellowstone Park ecosystem</a>. Scientists hoped and wondered whether this would change anything for the trees.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-aspen-matter-to-yellowstone">Why aspen matter to Yellowstone</h2>



Aspen groves provide habitat for many species. Birds nest in them. Beavers eat the bark and use the wood for dams. Butterflies and moths lay eggs on the leaves. 



Their canopy admits enough light for wildflowers and shrubs to grow beneath. When it rains, aspen groves hold water in the soil better than some other forest types.



In short, when aspen return, dozens of other species benefit. More trees support more insects, which in turn support more birds, enriching the ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-checking-the-trees-three-decades-later">Checking the trees three decades later</h2>



<a href="https://fwcs.oregonstate.edu/users/luke-painter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luke Painter</a>, an ecologist at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a>, sought clear answers. His team returned to 87 aspen stands across Yellowstone that scientists had previously surveyed. 



They measured thousands of young trees, looked for bite marks, and counted how many stems were tall enough that elk could no longer reach the tips.



About a third of these stands now have many tall young aspens pushing toward the canopy. 



"About 26 of the 87 aspen stands we examined had large numbers of tall saplings throughout, a remarkable change from the 1990s when surveys found none at all," Painter said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-wolves-matter-to-yellowstone-aspens">Why wolves matter to Yellowstone aspens</h2>



Breaking it all down, the conclusions of this study are pretty simple. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wolves-move-pups-across-mountains-to-adapt-to-climate-pressure/">Wolves hunt elk</a>. When wolves came back, two things happened. First, elk numbers declined from unusually high levels. Second, elk changed their behavior. They spent less time in the same areas feeding.



With fewer elk and shorter feeding bouts, more aspen shoots survived long enough to exceed the browsing zone - about six to seven feet high. 



Once a sapling reaches that height, elk cannot easily reach the growing tip. The tree continues to grow.



"The reintroduction of large carnivores has initiated a recovery process that had been shut down for decades," Painter explained.



Scientists call this a <a href="https://www.nature.com/scitable/knowledge/library/trophic-cascades-across-diverse-plant-ecosystems-80060347/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trophic cascade</a> - when adding or removing one species causes changes that ripple through the whole system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-places-recover-others-don-t">Some places recover, others don't</h2>



Unfortunately, not every aspen stand has recovered yet. Some valleys still have many short, heavily browsed shoots, because it's not only elk eating them anymore. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstones-iconic-bison-have-merged-into-a-single-herd/">Bison herds have grown</a>, and bison browse on aspen as well. They are strong enough to break young trees. 



"Increasing numbers of bison may be emerging as a new constraint to aspen in some areas," Painter confirmed.



Additionally, winter snow depth varies; droughts stress trees; bears and mountain lions also hunt elk; and hunting outside the park influences elk distribution. 



All of these factors interact, which is why some sites show strong recovery, others show moderate recovery, and a few have changed very little.



The key pattern is that places with many tall saplings experience little browsing, and aspen groves that remain popular eating grounds today stay short. 



This fact is the strongest indication that tree recovery is linked directly to wolf presence, not solely to weather or soil conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proof-in-the-measurements">Proof in the measurements</h2>



Painter's team did not rely on casual observation. They used the same methods as earlier researchers, measuring the same plots. 



They counted recruitment - when young trees surpass browsing height and begin progressing toward maturity. This measure is crucial. Sprouts are insufficient if they never grow; without recruitment, the forest cannot replace itself.



The results are robust. After being stalled for most of a century, Yellowstone's aspens are increasing in height. In recovering stands today, you will see saplings - six, eight, or ten feet tall - that were not present in the 1990s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-yellowstone-s-aspens">The future of Yellowstone's aspens</h2>



"This is a remarkable case of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-viruses-found-in-yellowstones-hot-springs-may-be-near-the-root-of-all-life-on-earth/">ecological restoration</a>," Painter concluded. "Wolf reintroduction is yielding long-term ecological changes contributing to increased biodiversity and habitat diversity."



Trees grow slowly, so even with wolves restored, it will take decades for these young aspens to form a full-grown forest. 



Some areas might never fully recover if bison numbers continue to rise or if the climate becomes too hot and dry.



Thanks to the work of Painter and his team, scientists are now certain that restoring the Yellowstone predator has restarted aspen forest regeneration. Not everywhere and not perfectly, but enough to be measured, creating hope for the future.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378112725004499?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forest Ecology and Management</a>.



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Yellowstone's aspen trees are growing again thanks to the reintroduction of wolves

Young aspen trees in Yellowstone are doing something they have not done in almost 100 years. Rather than sprouting and being eaten back to nubs by elk and bison, they're actually growing into tall, adult forest trees rising up towards the canopy. This matters more than it might seem, because it shows what happens when a missing piece of an ecosystem returns. Yellowstone, aspens, and elk In the 1920s, people eliminated wolves in Yellowstone. At the time, with limited scientific knowledge, managers believed it was the right...

Humpback,Whale,Breaching.,Humpback,Whale,Jumping,Out,Of,The,Water.

Humpback whales have long impressed us with their incredible travel distances, often covering thousands of miles between feeding and breeding areas. 



Scientists recently recorded an adult male humpback whale making an unexpected journey from South America to Africa, traveling more than 8,106 miles (13,046 kilometers). 



This new finding suggests there is still much to learn about how whales spread across oceans, especially in the Southern Hemisphere.



“These animals are distinct individuals, and they’ll do surprising things. These oceans are very much connected spaces, and whales travel beyond borders," enthused Ted Cheeseman, a marine biologist at <a href="https://www.scu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southern Cross University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-record-breaking-journey">Record-breaking journey</h2>



A new study detailed this whale’s journey as the longest migration ever recorded for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-helps-humans-have-20-minute-conversation-with-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a single whale</a>. The trek also marked the first time researchers documented an adult male humpback traveling between the Pacific and Indian oceans. 



The whale was first spotted off the coast of Colombia in 2013 and seen again near that area a few years later. But in 2022, it turned up near Zanzibar, off the coast of East Africa. 



Researchers noted that the typical migration route can exceed 4,971 miles (8,000 kilometers) one way, and this whale’s path was close to twice that distance, according to the study published in the journal Royal Society Open Science.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humpback-whale-travel-behavior">Humpback whale travel behavior</h2>



Scientists say this unexpected movement sheds light on how adaptable humpbacks can be. They say that global data are needed to better <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-a-warming-climate-will-change-the-humpback-whales-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">understand whale behavior</a>. 



Such large-scale research could show how whales respond to environmental changes and whether factors like shifting ocean temperatures or reduced food availability push them to seek new territories. 



The whale’s travel between distinct breeding grounds highlights that humpbacks, while often returning to the same places, are not completely predictable. 



“Our dogmatic thinking is that (whales) always go to the place where they came from,” said Ari Friedlaender, professor of ocean sciences at the <a href="https://www.ucsc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Santa Cruz</a>, who was not involved in the study. 



“But there has to be some movement where you get some (animal) explorers that decide, for whatever reason, to follow a different path," Friedlaender told CNN.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-a-unique-individual">Tracking a unique individual</h2>



Humpbacks exist in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humpback-whales-have-moved-their-singing-rituals-away-from-shorelines/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oceans all over the world</a> and are known for covering huge distances. This whale’s journey stands out because it involved switching between two separate breeding areas. 



Males often travel widely when competing for mates, and scientists note that these movements may depend on shifting conditions. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/humpback-whale_record-migration_sightings-map_credit-Meynecke_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/humpback-whale_record-migration_sightings-map_credit-Meynecke_1s.webp" alt="The sighting locations of the male humpback whale between the breeding grounds G and C. Squares represent primary feeding grounds of the Southern Hemisphere humpback whale breeding stocks (BS) G, A, B and C, with the latter split into C1 southern (C1S) and C1 northern (C1N) extents, C2, C3 and C4. Semicircles represent their respective core breeding grounds. Credit: Seyboth E, Meynecke JO, de Bie J, Roychoudhury A, Findlay K." class="wp-image-1953566"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The sighting locations of the male humpback whale between the breeding grounds G and C. Squares represent primary feeding grounds of the Southern Hemisphere humpback whale breeding stocks (BS) G, A, B and C, with the latter split into C1 southern (C1S) and C1 northern (C1N) extents, C2, C3 and C4. Semicircles represent their respective core breeding grounds. Credit: Seyboth E, Meynecke JO, de Bie J, Roychoudhury A, Findlay K. </figcaption></figure>



They tracked the whale using a platform called <a href="https://happywhale.com/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Happy Whale</a>, which Cheeseman cofounded. It lets citizen scientists, researchers, and whale watchers share their whale photos, helping experts identify whales by the unique underside of their tails. 



“When (whales) dive, they lift their tails, and anyone taking a picture of their tail can record the identity of the animal,” Cheeseman said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-patterns-in-a-changing-world">Changing patterns in a changing world</h2>



Humpbacks generally show strong loyalty to their breeding sites, though occasional shifts happen. 



Researchers do not fully understand why whales change their breeding locations, but they see that males and females can both move between different spots. 



Scientists think that environmental conditions, competition, and mate availability may influence these changes. Instead of repeating their old routes, some whales may strike out in new directions. 



Cheeseman explained that the whale in this study may have left Colombia due to competition with other males for mates or because of food scarcity, noting that these conditions might push whales to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humpback-whales-perform-full-body-scrubs-on-their-return-south/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">explore new waters</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-this-matter">Why does this matter?</h2>



In the 20th century, whaling in the Indian Ocean killed nearly 95% to 99% of the humpback population there, according to Cheeseman. 



That leaves many questions unanswered about their current habits. Researchers say that understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/add-humpback-whales-to-list-of-animals-that-build-and-use-tools/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">modern humpback behavior</a> is like observing a classroom full of youngsters without many older individuals around. 



“We’re looking at their behavior like going into a kindergarten classroom,” Cheeseman said. “There’s maybe one adult, someone who’s middle-aged and a whole bunch of children.” 



These shifting demographics mean whales are making new cultural patterns, and unexpected movements could shape how these creatures interact with each other.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-documenting-humpback-whale-travel">Documenting humpback whale travel</h2>



Since the 1970s, whale watchers and scientists have used tail photography to identify individuals. Platforms like Happy Whale now let many people submit images, broadening the amount of information available. 



Cheeseman noted that the database currently includes around 109,000 individual whales. The increased collaboration encourages more inclusive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humpback-whales-fail-to-respond-to-vessel-noise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research projects worldwide</a>. 



“(Happy Whale) is going to bring more opportunity for sharing and networking to make our global research partnerships more inclusive,” Friedlaender said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uncertain-futures-and-new-connections">Uncertain futures and new connections</h2>



This whale’s travel outside its usual breeding pattern raises questions about acceptance in its new location. Changes in travel routes may mean whales encounter different populations. 



As these movements occur, whales could begin mixing genes and behaviors, influencing how future generations migrate and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humpback-whales-felt-less-stressed-during-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">choose their homes</a>. 



Cheeseman said that new sightings will provide more clues. “With every photograph we receive we’re looking for every whale we know,” Cheeseman said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humpback-whale-travel-creates-communities">Humpback whale travel creates communities</h2>



The Indian Ocean now holds younger populations of humpbacks trying to find their way. Some may follow old patterns, while others search for new possibilities. 



In addition, shifts in migration might change social bonds and behaviors.



“These different paths can connect populations that we otherwise would never think would be in touch with each other to share information and genes that make these populations into more of a global community," Friedlaender concluded.



No one can say when or where this whale will appear next, but future sightings and photographs may deepen our understanding. The world’s oceans hold many secrets about how humpbacks live, move, and interact. 



As more data come to light, researchers and regular folks can pool their knowledge, helping piece together how whales adapt to changing waters and shifting relationships.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsos.241361" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Society Open Science</a>.



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Humpback whale travels farther than any mammal ever recorded

Humpback whales have long impressed us with their incredible travel...

Have you ever wondered how our brain stores memories? For two decades, it has been acknowledged that electrical waves in our brains during deep sleep have a crucial role in memory formation. However, the details of this process have remained a mystery. 



Following an extensive study, a team of researchers from <a href="https://www.charite.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin</a> has proposed a compelling explanation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-sleep-and-memory-formation">Deep sleep and memory formation </h2>



How do memories become permanent? Most experts agree that while we are immersed in the land of dreams, our brains have a quick recap of the day's happenings. Here's how it works.



The short-term memory info in the hippocampus is transferred to the long-term memory in the neocortex. 



The unsung heroes of this operation are "slow waves." These are slow, synchronous oscillations of electrical voltage in the cortex that occur during our deepest sleep phase.



"We’ve known for many years that these slow waves contribute to the formation of memory. When slow-wave sleep is artificially augmented from outside, memory improves," explained Professor Jörg Geiger.



But there's been a lingering question - what exactly is happening inside our heads when this process occurs?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-slow-waves-and-brain-connectivity">Slow waves and brain connectivity </h2>



"Synaptic mechanisms that contribute to human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-our-brain-form-long-term-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory consolidation</a> remain largely unexplored. Consolidation critically relies on sleep," noted the researchers.



"During slow wave sleep, neurons exhibit characteristic membrane potential oscillations known as UP and DOWN states. Coupling of memory reactivation to these slow oscillations promotes consolidation, though the underlying mechanisms remain elusive."



To put it simply, these slow electrical waves influence the strength of synaptic connections between the neurons in the neocortex, and thus their receptivity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysterious-mechanisms-of-memory-formation">Mysterious mechanisms of memory formation </h2>



With the use of unique, intact human brain tissue, the team has been able to uncover some of the processes that are linked to memory formation during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sleep-improves-memory-formation-and-recall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deep sleep</a>.



The study was focused on tissue samples from 45 patients who had undergone treatment for epilepsy or a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-antidepressants-could-help-treat-brain-tumors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain tumor</a> at Charité, the Evangelisches Klinikum Bethel (EvKB) hospital, or the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE).



The experts managed to simulate the voltage fluctuations of slow waves during deep sleep in this tissue, then gauged the response of the nerve cells.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-timing-of-long-term-memory-storage">The timing of long-term memory storage</h2>



The researchers discovered that synaptic connections between neurons in the neocortex peak at a very specific moment during the voltage fluctuations. They found that the synapses function most efficiently right after the voltage swings from low to high.



"During that brief time window, the cortex can be thought of as having been placed in a state of elevated readiness. If the brain plays back a memory at exactly this time, it is transferred to long-term memory especially effectively,” explained Franz Xaver Mittermaier, lead author of the study.



Worldwide, research groups are exploring ways to use electrical impulses or auditory signals to influence slow waves during sleep. Current stimulation approaches are optimized through the trial-and-error method, which is time-consuming and laborious.



This new understanding of the "perfect timing" could aid in devising methods to boost memory formation more efficiently.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-memory-through-sleep">Enhancing memory through sleep</h2>



The insights from this study open the door to new applications for memory enhancement. By understanding the exact timing when synaptic connections are most effective, researchers can refine techniques to influence slow-wave activity.



This could revolutionize treatments for memory-related conditions, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-why-some-brains-resist-alzheimers-disease-symptoms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer’s disease</a> or age-related cognitive decline.



Beyond clinical applications, optimizing memory during sleep could benefit learning and performance, offering new possibilities for education and skill acquisition.



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



The findings of this research extend beyond memory formation and cognitive impairment. By deepening our understanding of how the brain operates during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-is-essential-for-memory-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a>, scientists can explore innovative applications in various fields.



For instance, optimizing sleep-related brain activity could aid in treating sleep disorders or managing stress-related conditions. 



Additionally, this knowledge might inspire advances in technology, such as brain-computer interfaces designed to enhance cognitive performance. The findings may even lead to memory retention training programs that are tailored to individual sleep patterns.



Ultimately, the potential to harness the power of deep sleep could transform how we approach mental health and neurological well-being.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-53901-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Experts pinpoint the exact timing of memory formation during sleep

Have you ever wondered how our brain stores memories? For...

Deep meditative states are often described as “pure consciousness experiences,” where individuals feel alert but do not perceive anything other than “awareness itself.” These states of meditation are frequently characterized as "timeless," with no sense of past, future, or any other temporal features. 



Yet, a paradox emerges: if one is consciously aware and alert, wouldn’t one also be aware of the passage of time? Can these profound meditative states genuinely be devoid of any temporal dimension?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-timeless-meditation">Understanding timeless meditation</h2>



In an article published in <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1093/pq/pqae081" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Philosophical Quarterly</a>, Professor Akiko Frischhut from <a href="https://www.sophia.ac.jp/eng/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sophia University</a> in Japan examines this intriguing contradiction.



“My paper aims to give a coherent conceptualization of deep meditative states, focusing in particular on phenomenal temporality during meditation,” she explained. 



“The central question is whether it is possible to have an experience that is completely timeless, without any temporal feature whatsoever.”



Thomas Metzinger, a prominent philosopher, has argued that first-person accounts of deep meditation from diverse cultures and eras consistently describe these states in strikingly similar terms. 



A common theme is that such states of meditation feel both “completely timeless” and “continuously ongoing.”



However, if something is described as “ongoing,” it implies the presence of duration, meaning that it cannot be entirely timeless. 



This contradiction forms the basis of Frischhut’s investigation. She argues that deep <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-meditation-is-a-powerful-weapon-against-chronic-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meditative states</a> must inherently involve at least one minimal temporal quality: duration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timeless-meditation-no-beginning-or-end">Timeless meditation: No beginning or end</h2>



To resolve this paradox, Frischhut introduces the “Extended Now Interpretation (ENI).” This concept identifies a critical ambiguity in the term “timeless.”&nbsp;



While some use the word to mean entirely devoid of any temporal features, others apply it to describe a state with an indeterminate duration that lacks specific temporal structures such as change, order, succession, beginning, or end.&nbsp;



Meditators may describe their experience as “timeless” because they perceive no temporal structure, even though they experience a sense of ongoing duration.



Frischhut’s argument suggests that deep meditative states occur within what can be described as an extended present. 



During these states, meditators perceive no change or progression of moments, yet they are immersed in an experience with duration. 



According to the ENI, “timelessness” refers not to the absence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-experiences-alter-time-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">time</a> entirely but rather to the absence of any discernible temporal framework within the experienced duration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alertness-in-deep-meditative-states">Alertness in deep meditative states</h2>



Frischhut delves deeper into the role of sustained <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bright-light-instantly-enhances-brain-function-alertness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alertness</a> in providing meditators with an implicit awareness of duration, even in the absence of explicit temporal markers.&nbsp;



This form of alertness, found in deep meditative states, can be thought of as a poised state of attention. Over time, meditators either maintain this alert state or slip into less attentive conditions.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/meditation_awareness_time-perception_graphic_credit-Sophia-University_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/meditation_awareness_time-perception_graphic_credit-Sophia-University_1s.webp" alt="In this study, a researcher from Sophia University presents an in-depth analysis of how and why deep meditative states are often described as &quot;atemporal&quot; or &quot;timeless.&quot; Credit: Akiko Frischhut from Sophia University, Japan" class="wp-image-1953771"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">In this study, a researcher from Sophia University presents an in-depth analysis of how and why deep meditative states are often described as "atemporal" or "timeless." Credit: Akiko Frischhut from Sophia University, Japan</figcaption></figure>



The choice to remain alert -- or the potential to lose alertness -- provides a subtle sense of time’s passage, Frischhut argues. This awareness does not require meditators to consciously track successive moments. 



Instead, the very act of maintaining attention creates an awareness of duration, even without recognizing the progression of one moment to the next.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-the-lack-of-memory">Addressing the lack of memory</h2>



A significant challenge to Frischhut’s argument lies in the fact that meditators often report an absence of memory during these deep states.&nbsp;



Without <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-is-essential-for-memory-formation/">memory</a>, how can one perceive any sense of time? To address this, Frischhut posits that the experience of alertness itself carries a unique phenomenological quality that distinguishes it from a lack of alertness.



She draws an analogy to hearing two consecutive knocks on a door: the second knock feels different because it follows the first. 



Similarly, even without conscious memory, the flow of alertness from one moment to the next provides meditators with an implicit awareness of duration. 



This seamless continuity of momentary alertness allows meditators to experience a sense of ongoing presence, even without actively recalling or recognizing previous moments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-this-is-cool-but-why-does-it-matter">This is cool, but why does it matter?</h2>



This analysis sheds new light on the nature of deep meditative states and helps clarify reports that have emerged consistently throughout human history.&nbsp;



Frischhut, whose academic focus includes unusual states of consciousness, hopes her findings will spark further discussion in this relatively underexplored area.



“In my opinion, non-ordinary states of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/consciousness-may-stem-from-unseen-dimensions-beyond-our-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consciousness</a> such as deep meditative states, dreams, and psychedelic states have not been sufficiently investigated in contemporary philosophy,” Frischhut said.



She emphasizes that exploring how time is perceived in these altered states could offer profound insights into human cognition and the workings of the mind.&nbsp;



By examining the subtle dynamics of phenomenal temporality, Frischhut’s work paves the way for a deeper understanding of how we experience time across both ordinary and extraordinary states of consciousness.



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No past, no future: Why deep meditation experiences feel 'timeless'

Deep meditative states are often described as “pure consciousness experiences,”...

Concerns about TikTok’s influence on youth are common, but a new study led by Emilie Owens provides a more nuanced view.&nbsp;



Published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.3366/ircl.2024.0562" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Research in Children's Literature</a>, the study explores how TikTok shapes teenagers' lives and behaviors, offering insights that challenge the platform’s negative reputation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teenagers-and-their-phones">Teenagers and their phones</h2>



Owens, a doctoral student in media studies at the <a href="https://www.uio.no/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oslo</a>, set out to better understand the relationship between teenagers and their phones. “My goal has been to get to know teenagers and their phones. I wanted to be in the room with them,” she explained.&nbsp;



Her curiosity was driven by the often critical attitudes adults hold toward TikTok.&nbsp;



While acknowledging its commercial downsides, Owens emphasizes the positive role the platform can play for teens. “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/internet-addiction-impairs-brain-function-in-teenagers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Teenagers</a> in my research say that TikTok makes them happy and provides comfort. They also see it as a social activity.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-teenagers-use-of-tiktok">Exploring teenagers’ use of TikTok</h2>



Over seven months, Owens conducted her study in an international high school in Oslo.&nbsp;



To capture authentic teenage behavior, she encouraged students to interact with TikTok as they normally would, occasionally assigning tasks such as finding or creating content.&nbsp;



By observing them in action, she gained a deeper understanding of their relationship with the platform.



Owens initially expected significant gender differences in TikTok use, but her findings painted a more complex picture.&nbsp;



While a small group of boys gravitated toward sarcastic, political, and controversial content, the majority of students - regardless of gender - focused on humorous memes, quirky videos, and educational material.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teenagers-learning-through-tiktok">Teenagers learning through TikTok</h2>



One surprising outcome of the study was how much teenagers claimed to learn from TikTok. A 16-year-old girl noted that TikTok often provided clear explanations of current events or academic topics.&nbsp;



“All of these controversies going on? There's always someone explaining it there. Or I have actually seen Russian ladies, like, describe math to me, and I understand it,” she said.&nbsp;



Similarly, a 17-year-old boy praised the platform’s short videos for getting “straight to the point without any explanation,” which he found particularly effective.



TikTok, Owens observed, often acts as a lens through which teenagers view the world. They use it in various contexts, from passing time while waiting for the bus to engaging socially by sharing videos with friends.&nbsp;



“In such cases, TikTok becomes a social focal point, a kind of lens through which they can see the world together,” Owens explained.&nbsp;



This shared experience can bridge cultural divides, particularly in international classrooms where students come from different backgrounds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-the-good-and-the-bad">Balancing the good and the bad</h2>



Despite TikTok’s positive aspects, teenagers are aware of its potential downsides. Some prefer YouTube, feeling it offers more substantial educational value. Others temporarily delete TikTok to focus on schoolwork.&nbsp;



One teenager mentioned the physical strain of prolonged use, noting that “after twelve hours, your eyes get sore.” While this may not be literal, it reflects the platform’s potential to consume significant amounts of time.



The content on TikTok also elicited mixed reactions. Teenagers recognized that the type of accounts they follow could influence their mood and motivation.&nbsp;



As one 16-year-old boy put it:&nbsp; “If you follow a certain type of people, it can be motivating. But if you follow a certain group, it can be very demotivating as well.”&nbsp;



The term “brain rot” was humorously used by the teens to describe the sillier, less meaningful content, though they didn’t take this label too seriously.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-customized-digital-world">A customized digital world</h2>



Owens reflects on what it means for today’s teenagers to grow up with TikTok. The platform offers a highly customized experience, where users can easily move on to something else if they don’t like what they see.&nbsp;



“It certainly gives them a more customized world. They learn to expect things to be the way they want them,” Owens noted.&nbsp;



While the long-term implications remain unclear, she suggests this tailored digital environment could shape their expectations and interactions in significant ways.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-relationship-between-teenagers-and-tiktok-nbsp">Complex relationship between teenagers and TikTok&nbsp;</h2>



For parents, Owens points to the work of University of Oslo professor Elisabeth Staksrud, who emphasizes the importance of parental involvement in teenagers’ digital lives.&nbsp;



Owens echoes this advice: “It’s probably wise to be realistic. Young people use <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spending-less-time-on-social-media-improves-your-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social media</a> now, and it’s an important part of their lives. Approach it as you would any other issue in a teenager’s life. Ask them what’s happening and show that you care.”



Owens’ study reveals a nuanced relationship between teenagers and TikTok. While the platform poses challenges, it also offers opportunities for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning</a>, social connection, and entertainment.&nbsp;



By understanding this balance, parents, educators, and researchers can better navigate the evolving digital landscape and support teenagers in making the most of their online experiences.



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Growing up in a digital world: TikTok makes teenagers happy

Concerns about TikTok’s influence on youth are common, but a...

Proper food intake is essential for pregnant humpback whales to complete their extraordinary annual migration between Hawaii and Alaska.&nbsp;



Researchers with the <a href="https://www.mmrphawaii.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Mammal Research Program</a> (MMRP) at the <a href="https://www.himb.hawaii.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mānoa Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology</a> (HIMB) have revealed the energetic demands and vulnerabilities of these migratory mothers-to-be.&nbsp;



The findings, published in <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1113/JP287304" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Journal of Physiology</a>, show that while the initial stages of pregnancy are relatively low in energy cost, the final trimester dramatically increases the mother’s energetic needs - just when she must fast and cover great distances without feeding.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humpback-whales-astonishing-migrations">Humpback whales’ astonishing migrations</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humpback-whales-felt-less-stressed-during-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Humpback whales</a> feed in polar waters and then embark on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humpback-whale-travels-farther-than-any-mammal-ever-recorded/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migrations</a> reaching up to 5,000 kilometers to the tropical regions where they mate and give birth.&nbsp;



During pregnancy, which lasts about 10 months, these females must travel and fast, relying solely on the energy reserves built up in feeding grounds.&nbsp;



By examining a combination of recent and historical data, the researchers found a direct correlation between maternal size and fetal growth: larger mothers carry larger fetuses that grow at faster rates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-demands-of-pregnant-whales">Energy demands of pregnant whales</h2>



These findings allowed the team to estimate the energy demands for different stages of pregnancy. The first two-thirds of the pregnancy required only minimal extra energy, accounting for just 0.01–1.08% of the mother’s energy expenditure.&nbsp;



The most significant strain came in the final 100 days, when energy needs soared to 98.2% of the pregnancy’s total metabolic cost.



“It was surprising to see how the peak of energy requirements coincided with the onset of fasting in pregnant females, ultimately highlighting how crucial those final 100 days of pregnancy are for this migratory species,” said lead author Martin van Aswegen, a PhD student at MMRP.



“Females that are late in the pregnancy are therefore particularly vulnerable to disruptions in energy balance, given periods of greatest energetic stress coincide with fasting and migration to sub-tropical breeding grounds.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vulnerable-period-for-pregnant-whales">Vulnerable period for pregnant whales</h2>



According to van Aswegen, the study highlights a particularly vulnerable period for pregnant humpback whales.&nbsp;



“This is important, because once these whales leave their high-latitude feeding grounds, they have a finite amount of energy available to invest in their offspring over a 3–5 month fasting period, with energy requirements being even higher after calf birth.”



Humpback whales depend on abundant feeding during summer months in high-latitude regions to gather the energy reserves necessary for migration and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humpback-whale-reproduction-is-linked-to-krill-abundance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reproduction</a>.&nbsp;



The new data highlights how critical it is for these whales to have access to sufficient prey before beginning their long journeys southward to deliver calves in warmer, predator-scarce waters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-declining-calf-production-raises-concerns">Declining calf production raises concerns</h2>



Recent observations have shown a worrying trend: there has been a 75.6% decline in the number of humpback whale mothers with calves off Hawaiʻi between 2013 and 2018.&nbsp;



In Southeast Alaska, a recent study documented that calf production between 2015 and 2019 was about six times lower than in pre-2015 years, while midsummer calf mortality increased tenfold from 2014 to 2019.&nbsp;



These declines coincided with significant, extended changes in the marine food web, leading to poor feeding conditions for humpback whales.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-lives-of-humpback-whales">Complex lives of humpback whales</h2>



“This research underpins future studies on humpback whale energy demands,” said Lars Bejder, co-author of the study and director of MMRP.&nbsp;



“Our drone-collected whale health database, developed in partnership with the <a href="https://www.alaskawhalefoundation.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alaska Whale Foundation</a>, includes over 11,000 measurements from 8,500 individual North Pacific whales. Its extensive temporal and spatial scale offers invaluable insights into the effects of large-scale climatic events on this iconic sentinel species.”&nbsp;



Bejder noted that sustaining such long-term, wide-scale studies is crucial for understanding these impacts within the context of natural variability in whale health.”



“This research underscores the value of collaboration in tackling complex questions about the lives of humpback whales,” added Jens Currie, co-author and chief scientist at <a href="https://www.pacificwhale.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pacific Whale Foundation</a>.&nbsp;



“Through large-scale collaborations, we're able to gain critical insights into the challenges migratory whales face during pregnancy to better inform conservation strategies. Together, we can address large-scale ecological challenges that no single institution could achieve alone.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-pressure-faced-by-pregnant-whales">The pressure faced by pregnant whales</h2>



By analyzing the whales’ energy use and nutritional demands, this study sheds light on key factors influencing whale reproductive success.&nbsp;



Understanding the energetic pressures faced by pregnant females can guide future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/effective-conservation-efforts-key-to-saving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> efforts aimed at safeguarding feeding grounds and migration routes.&nbsp;



In a warming ocean where prey availability and distribution are changing, such science-based insights will prove essential for ensuring that humpback whales continue to complete their life cycle and thrive for generations to come.



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The hidden struggles of pregnant humpback whales

Proper food intake is essential for pregnant humpback whales to...

Dog owners often have strong opinions about what to feed their pets. From kibble to raw food, the options are diverse. But what actually influences these choices?



A new study from the Dog Aging Project (DAP) uncovers surprising trends, showing that an owner's age plays a bigger role than their income or education.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-how-aging-impacts-dogs">Studying how aging impacts dogs </h2>



The <a href="https://dogagingproject.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dog Aging Project</a>, a unique research effort at <a href="https://www.tamu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Texas A&amp;M University</a>, focuses on understanding how aging impacts dogs. 



With over 50,000 dogs enrolled across the U.S., it’s a community-driven initiative that aims to promote healthier and longer lives for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-healthcare-needs-change-as-they-enter-old-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our furry friends</a>. Not only does the research help dogs, but it also provides insights into human health and aging.



In their latest study, published in the&nbsp;Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the researchers gathered data from more than 40,000 dog owners.



The team analyzed how factors like owner age, income, education, and living environment influence dietary decisions for dogs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dog-owners-and-pet-food">Dog owners and pet food </h2>



The study revealed that who you are as an owner plays a huge role in what you feed your <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">dog</a>.



“We found that owner demographics play a much more important role in the selection of dog diets than previously thought,” explained Dr. Katie Tolbert, a veterinary nutritionist and associate professor at Texas A&amp;M.



For instance, older dog owners are more likely to opt for canned or home-cooked diets. At first glance, you might think this has to do with the dog’s age. But Dr. Tolbert pointed out that it’s more about the owner’s age and their beliefs about what’s healthiest.



“Without considering the owner, we might assume that this choice is a result of dog age,” said Dr. Tolbert.



“But now we have data suggesting that it might be that older dogs are more likely to have older owners, and they are making decisions based on what they believe are healthier choices for their dog that have nothing to do with the dog’s age.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-dog-owner-s-lifestyle">Impact of dog owner's lifestyle</h2>



The study also uncovered how a dog’s lifestyle and location influence diet choices. Active and working dogs in rural areas are often fed home-prepared raw or cooked diets, while urban and less active dogs are more likely to eat canned or commercial raw food.



“Although the majority of dogs are fed a kibble diet, regardless of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-use-soundboards-to-express-their-needs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dog</a> size or geographic location, we found that highly active dogs, working dogs, and those living in rural environments were more likely to be fed home-prepared raw or cooked diets when fed something other than kibble,” noted Dr. Tolbert.



“In contrast, sedentary dogs and dogs living in urban areas were more likely to be fed canned, commercial raw, or home-cooked diets when fed something other than kibble.”



The findings emphasize the importance of considering both the dog’s traits and the owner’s lifestyle when analyzing dietary decisions.



“The point of this study was to show that we need to consider information about both the dog and their owner when assessing why a dog is fed a particular diet,” said Dr. Tolbert. “This will make sure that we continue to support canine health with the most accurate information possible.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-dog-owners-choose-pet-food">How dog owners choose pet food</h2>



This research provides valuable insights for veterinarians and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-feel-our-emotions-through-our-heart-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pet</a> food companies to better understand how owners decide what to feed their dogs. 



By looking at both the dog and the owner, experts can offer more tailored recommendations to keep dogs healthy and happy.



The Dog Aging Project continues to welcome new participants from across the United States. They’re inviting dogs of all breeds, ages, and health conditions to join this remarkable effort.



By studying canine aging, they hope to improve the lives of dogs and their humans alike.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-relationships-of-dogs-and-their-owners">Relationships of dogs and their owners</h2>



The bond between dogs and their owners goes far beyond food choices. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/this-simple-technique-instantly-reduces-heat-stress-in-dogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dogs</a> often mirror their owners’ lifestyles and emotional states, creating a unique dynamic that impacts both parties. 



Studies have shown that dogs can sense human emotions, respond to stress, and even adopt similar activity levels to their owners. This close relationship makes it imperative to understand both a dog’s needs and also how the owner’s habits and beliefs shape their pet’s overall well-being.



For example, owners who value fitness may encourage their dogs to stay active, leading to healthier lifestyles for both. On the other hand, sedentary owners might unintentionally promote less activity in their pets. 



This interplay highlights how deeply interconnected the lives of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/friends-family-members-and-guardians-dogs-are-more-than-just-pets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> and owners are, and emphasizes the need for holistic approaches to pet care that consider the human-canine bond.



The study is published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/262/12/javma.24.05.0358.xml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association</a>. 



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Dog owners' ages and beliefs influence their pet food choices

Dog owners often have strong opinions about what to feed...

As the holiday season unfolds, shopping reaches its peak. This year, a staggering 197 million people shopped from Black Friday to Cyber Monday, and spent a record $33.6 billion on Black Friday alone. 



Behind the shopping frenzy lies a fascinating intersection of brain activity, neuroscience, and economics, as explored by Dr. Uma Karmarkar, a leading expert in neuroeconomics.



Karmarkar investigated the psychological and physical factors that drive consumer behavior, offering insights into why we buy - and how we can make more intentional choices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-science-and-shopping-behavior">Brain science and shopping behavior</h2>



"Neuroeconomics is a field of study that uses theories and methods from neuroscience, psychology, and economics to better understand how people make real-world decisions," said Dr. Karmarkar, an associate professor at <a href="https://ucsd.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC San Diego</a>.



With a PhD in neuroscience, as well as a PhD in consumer behavior, Dr. Karmarkar bridges the gap between basic brain science and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/happiness-influences-online-shopping-habits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">everyday human actions</a>, such as shopping.



Her journey into neuroeconomics began with studying how brain cells process information for tasks like memory and learning. She found that the decision-making process is complex and engaging.



"I found it very exciting that we could build models from brain to behavior on how we make choices about health or career or finances, or even shop for groceries," said Dr. Karmarkar.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-processes-involved-in-shopping">Brain processes involved in shopping </h2>



When shopping, our brains engage in multiple processes. The ventral striatum, a key brain region, evaluates how much we like an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fashion-industrys-plastic-waste-is-a-major-environmental-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">item</a>, even when we're not actively shopping. 



If we consider making a purchase, additional brain regions help weigh the price, willingness to pay, and overall decision.



Interestingly, these processes remain consistent between in-person and online shopping. However, environmental factors like interacting with physical products or being surrounded by other shoppers can create subtle differences in how decisions are made.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="1wHE5lBtkb-4130361-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-brands-in-decision-making">Role of brands in decision-making</h2>



Brands play a powerful role in consumer decisions, offering familiarity and confidence. This sense of assurance activates reward centers in the brain. 



"These relationships to brands are strong and multi-faceted, but they’re not the same relationships that we have with people," noted Dr. Karmarkar.



Understanding these distinctions can help consumers recognize how brand loyalty shapes their choices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-companies-trick-our-brains-into-shopping">How companies trick our brains into shopping</h2>



Businesses leverage insights from neuroeconomics to fine-tune marketing strategies. For instance, Dr. Karmarkar's eye-tracking research highlights how product recommendations can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mortality-salience-fear-of-death-main-driver-early-halloween-shopping/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influence purchases</a>.



"I've also done some work with eye-tracking - that is, measuring what people look at, and for how long - to help know what information they paid attention to or found useful," said Dr. Karmarkar.



She found that consumers are more likely to buy an item if it is advertised or displayed among other, similar and recommended items on a page.



Dr. Karmarkar used the example of a person <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/happiness-influences-online-shopping-habits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">searching online</a> for a sweater to purchase. "The presence of matched products on the page helps you feel more engaged with a 'sweater-specific' decision," she explained.



On the other hand, mismatched recommendations, such as unrelated items like earrings or home goods, can distract consumers and make them less likely to buy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alternatives-for-more-sustainable-joy">Alternatives for more sustainable joy</h2>



The same brain regions that respond to the rewards of shopping also react to other pleasures, suggesting alternatives for more sustainable joy.



"It doesn’t have to be a sacrifice," said Dr. Karmarkar. Activities like massages or finding "new-to-me" items through secondhand shopping can provide similar satisfaction without the environmental cost of buying new products.



Our craving for novelty often drives the impulse to shop, as the reward from new items can feel more intense than the ongoing enjoyment of what we already own. Recognizing this tendency can help consumers find rewarding alternatives that align with their values.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-becoming-a-conscious-consumer">Becoming a conscious consumer</h2>



Dr. Karmarkar emphasizes the importance of intentional shopping, and highlights how the brain plays a key role in making conscious choices.



"To be a more conscious consumer, think about what your goals are before you get into shopping situations," she advised. Making a list or setting a budget can help curb impulsive buying, as it’s harder to make deliberate choices in the moment.



The research also suggests expanding your "consideration set" - thinking about other ways to spend your money and time. If a product still feels worthwhile after weighing other options, it might be the right choice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-shopping">New perspective on shopping</h2>



Dr. Karmarkar’s work reveals the intricate interplay between our brains and shopping behaviors. By understanding the science behind our choices, we can navigate the holiday season - and everyday shopping - with greater awareness.



Whether it’s embracing sustainable habits or rethinking our relationship with brands, the journey toward intentional consumption starts with a deeper understanding of ourselves.



This information is published in a <a href="https://rady.ucsd.edu/why/news/2024/12-09-the-science-of-shopping.html">report</a> by the Rady School of Management.



Video Credit: Patagonia 



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Shopping mania: Part of your brain is always browsing

As the holiday season unfolds, shopping reaches its peak. This...

The mental load - the invisible labor of planning, organizing, and managing family life - encompasses tasks ranging from scheduling doctor’s appointments to planning birthday parties.



This cognitive household labor can feel especially overwhelming during the holiday season, when to-do lists seem endless.



A new study highlights that mothers are bearing the lion's share of this mental load in many households - not just during the holidays, but every single day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distribution-of-the-mental-load">Distribution of the mental load</h2>



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.bath.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bath</a> and the <a href="https://www.unimelb.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Melbourne</a> reached these conclusions after analyzing responses from 3,000 parents in the United States. 



The results shed light on how the mental load is unevenly distributed within families.



The experts found that mothers take on a significant 71% of all <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/household-chores-can-improve-brain-health-in-older-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">household tasks</a> that require mental effort, including everything from daily activities, like meal planning and organizing schedules, to managing household finances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mothers-fathers-and-household-mental-labor">Mothers, fathers, and household mental labor </h2>



When it comes down to the fine details of the mental load, it seems that mothers and fathers often undertake different tasks.



Mothers take on a whopping 79% of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moms-are-more-worried-about-chores-and-its-a-heavy-mental-load/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">daily tasks</a>, such as cleaning and childcare, which is over twice the share of dads, who manage these daily tasks at a rate of 37 percent.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-fathers-experience-slight-shrinkage-of-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fathers</a> appear to focus more on episodic tasks like managing finances and home repairs, taking up 65% of these tasks. 



However, mothers are also involved in episodic tasks - taking on 53% of these tasks - highlighting an often overlooked duplication of effort.



Interestingly, the study illuminates that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parents-with-more-children-risk-faster-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">parents</a> often overestimate their contributions, with fathers being the most likely to do so. Fathers also tend to view the household mental labor as equally shared, yet mothers would beg to differ.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hard-at-work-the-single-parent-reality">Hard at work: The single parent reality</h2>



Single parents undoubtedly have the most demanding burden as they have to juggle the entire mental load. The study revealed that single fathers take on significantly more compared to married fathers.



The primary goal of the research was to understand individual parents’ perceptions of the mental load, rather than the perception shared by couples.



Due to the inclusion of parents from a wide variety of family types, including LGBTQ+ and single parents, the findings are relevant to a diverse spectrum of households.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sharing-the-mental-load-more-fairly">Sharing the mental load more fairly</h2>



Dr. Ana Catalano Weeks is a political scientist in the Department of Politics, Languages &amp; International Studies at the University of Bath. She noted that the effects of the mental load are not confined to the home.



"This kind of work is often unseen, but it matters. It can lead to stress, burnout and even impact women’s careers. In many cases, resentment can build, creating strain between couples," said Dr. Catalano Weeks.



"We hope our research sparks conversations about sharing the mental load more fairly - something that benefits everyone."



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/maternal-mortality-the-overlooked-needs-of-mothers-after-childbirth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mothers</a>, who are disproportionately affected by the mental load, are feeling the pressure, with a recent Gallup study showing that working mothers are twice as likely as fathers to contemplate reducing their hours or leaving their jobs due to parental responsibilities.



"Going forward, the challenge for governments and employers who care about attracting the top talent is how to create policies that are supportive of both mothers and fathers sharing the unpaid work at home," said Dr. Catalano Weeks.



"One policy that comes to mind is well-paid, gender-neutral parental leave – which both the U.K. and U.S. are way behind on compared to the rest of Europe."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-stress-with-teamwork">Reducing stress with teamwork</h2>



As the holiday season fast approaches, it's a perfect time to discuss the disproportionate weight of the mental load.



A conversation leading to an action plan on how to share these tasks can help make the holidays - and everyday life - more seamlessly balanced, giving mothers a well-deserved break.



Small changes, like dividing tasks more equitably or setting realistic expectations, can go a long way in reducing stress and promoting teamwork. By addressing the mental load together, families can create a more supportive environment that benefits everyone.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jomf.13057" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Marriage and Family</a>.



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Mothers carry the heaviest weight of the 'mental load'

The mental load - the invisible labor of planning, organizing,...

Scientists have announced the discovery of a species of lipstick vine that is completely new to science, found in the depths of the Philippine rainforest.



This species, which has never been documented in botanical records, has sparked a wave of excitement among scientists and nature enthusiasts alike. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-expedition-into-the-heart-of-luzon">An expedition into the heart of Luzon</h2>



A daring expedition by a team of botanists in 2022 led them into Barangay Balbalasang <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drones-reveal-hidden-biodiversity-in-rainforest-canopies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainforest</a>, a remote and virtually inaccessible part of Luzon island. 



The journey began with days of rugged travel to reach the rainforest, which was filled with unforgiving thickets that demanded to be sliced with machetes. In these wild conditions, the researchers discovered their prize.



The team included Jayson Mansibang, Adriane Tobias, and Pastor L. Malabrigo from the <a href="https://uplb.edu.ph/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of the Philippines Los Baños</a>, along with Dr. Chris Thorogood, Deputy Director and Head of Science at the Oxford Botanic Garden and Arboretum.



The researchers stayed with the Banao Tribe, an indigenous community that protects the local forest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-lipstick-vine-unlike-any-other">A lipstick vine unlike any other</h2>



Among the species found in the forest, one stood out - a specimen of the lipstick vine, a genus known as Aeschynanthus.



This plant had a distinct pattern of delicate purple mottling which painted its flowers in a pattern similar to that of a European <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/foxgloves-rapidly-evolved-in-the-presence-of-hummingbirds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">foxglove</a>.



"We were trekking through dense vegetation when suddenly we spotted a luminous white, purple-spotted flower dangling above our heads," said Dr. Thorogood.



"We suspected immediately that it was new to science. It’s so exciting that beautiful species like this are still there waiting to be described.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-discovery-of-a-new-lipstick-vine">The discovery of a new lipstick vine </h2>



The team named the plant Aeschynanthus pentatrichomatus from the Latin ‘penta,’ meaning five, and ‘trichomatus’ referring to the trichomes - hair-like outgrowths deep in the throats of the flowers.



Lipstick vines, encompassing nearly 180 tropical and subtropical species, are known for their tubular, bud-like appearance. 



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/woody-vines-amplify-the-effects-of-lightning-in-tropical-forests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vines</a>, often adorning other plants and trees, boast vibrantly colored flowers that attract birds for pollination.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-concerns-amid-climate-change">Conservation concerns amid climate change</h2>



Sadly, this newfound beauty already faces a critical risk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/all-plants-on-earth-could-be-saved-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinction</a>. Rapid climate change, driving increasingly intense typhoons, relentlessly threatens the plant's natural habitat.



The Barangay Balbalasang rainforest remains remarkably intact, housing numerous species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The researchers hope that the new discovery can help support conservation efforts to protect the region.



"We dedicate this discovery not only to the unique beauty of the Banao forest but also to the Banao People themselves, who, through their care and stewardship, have ensured the conservation of rare species within these precious forests," said Tobias.



"It’s rare to find Aeschynanthus in such an environment, and as young botanists, we were thrilled to discover something so distinct.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-world-s-plant-data-darkspots">The world's plant data darkspots </h2>



“Many new species remain undocumented in the world’s ‘plant data <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-diversity-darkspots-need-urgent-attention/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">darkspots</a>’ - up to 15% of the world’s flora in fact," noted Dr. Thorogood.



"Finding these ‘known unknowns’ is essential for understanding and protecting biodiversity. That’s what makes discoveries such as this one so important for conservation science.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-importance-of-lipstick-vines">Ecological importance of lipstick vines</h2>



The discovery of Aeschynanthus pentatrichomatus sheds light on the ecological importance of lipstick vines in tropical ecosystems. 



As epiphytes, these plants grow on trees without harming them, creating microhabitats that support diverse wildlife. 



Their vividly colored flowers play a vital role in attracting pollinators, particularly birds, which are essential for maintaining the delicate balance of tropical rainforests.



Beyond their ecological contributions, lipstick vines are indicators of environmental health. Their presence often signifies a well-preserved ecosystem, as these plants thrive only in stable and intact habitats. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-a-unique-rainforest">Protecting a unique rainforest </h2>



The discovery of this new species in Barangay Balbalasang emphasizes the rainforest’s unique biodiversity and the urgent need to safeguard it.



With nearly 180 known species of Aeschynanthus, each adapted to its specific environment, the newly discovered species offers valuable insights into the evolution of plant-pollinator relationships and the resilience of tropical flora in the face of climate change. 



Protecting Aeschynanthus pentatrichomatus is not just about preserving a single species; it is about safeguarding the intricate web of life that it supports.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://nsojournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/njb.04580" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nordic Journal of Botany</a>.



Image Credit: Chris Thorogood



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Beautiful new 'lipstick vine' found in the Philippine rainforest

Scientists have announced the discovery of a species of lipstick...

A recent discovery in Türkiye is shaking up our understanding of human evolution. Scientists have identified a new fossil ape, Anadoluvius turkae, from an 8.7-million-year-old site near Çankırı. 



This find challenges the long-held belief that human ancestors evolved solely in Africa, suggesting instead that Europe played a significant role in our evolutionary history.



The fossil, uncovered at the Çorakyerler site with support from Türkiye's Ministry of Culture and Tourism, reveals that Mediterranean fossil apes were more diverse than previously thought. 



These apes are part of the earliest known <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-species-of-human-ancestors-literally-crossed-paths-1-5-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">group of hominins</a>, which includes not only African apes like chimpanzees, bonobos, and gorillas but also humans and their fossil ancestors. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-out-of-africa-maybe-not">Out of Africa? Maybe not</h2>



This discovery adds weight to the theory that the ancestors of African apes and humans may have evolved in Europe before migrating to Africa between nine and seven million years ago.



Professor David Begun from the <a href="https://www.utoronto.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toronto</a> and Professor Ayla Sevim Erol from <a href="https://www.ankara.edu.tr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ankara University</a> led the international team of researchers who conducted the study. 



"Our findings further suggest that hominines not only evolved in western and central Europe but spent over five million years evolving there and spreading to the eastern Mediterranean before eventually dispersing into Africa, probably as a consequence of changing environments and diminishing forests," explained Professor Begun. 



"The members of this radiation to which Anadoluvius turkae belongs are currently only identified in Europe and Anatolia."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-partial-skull-of-anadoluvius-turkae">Partial skull of Anadoluvius turkae</h2>



The conclusion drawn from the study is based on the analysis of a well-preserved partial cranium discovered in 2015. 



This fossil includes most of the facial structure and the front part of the braincase, providing valuable insights into the ape's anatomy. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/human-ancestor_Anadoluvius-turkae_early-ape_evolved-europe_credit-Sevim-Erol_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/human-ancestor_Anadoluvius-turkae_early-ape_evolved-europe_credit-Sevim-Erol_1s.webp" alt="A new face and partial brain case of Anadoluvius turkae, a fossil hominine—the group that includes African apes and humans—from the Çorakyerler fossil site located in Central Anatolia, Türkiye. Credit: Sevim-Erol, A., Begun, D.R., Sözer, Ç.S. et al." class="wp-image-1953373"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A new face and partial brain case of Anadoluvius turkae, a fossil hominine—the group that includes African apes and humans—from the Çorakyerler fossil site located in Central Anatolia, Türkiye. Credit: Sevim-Erol, A., Begun, D.R., Sözer, Ç.S. et al.</figcaption></figure>



"The completeness of the fossil allowed us to do a broader and more detailed analysis using many characters and attributes that are coded into a program designed to calculate evolutionary relationships," Begun explained. 



"The face is mostly complete, after applying mirror imaging. The new part is the forehead, with bone preserved to about the crown of the cranium. Previously described fossils do not have this much of the brain case."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-of-anadoluvius-turkae">Life of Anadoluvius turkae</h2>



Anadoluvius was roughly the size of a large <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chimpanzees-pass-tool-use-skills-across-generations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">male chimpanzee</a>, weighing between 50-60 kilograms. This size is notably large for a chimp and is comparable to the average size of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-gorilla-day-supporting-the-guardians-of-the-forest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">female gorilla</a>, which weighs around 75-80 kilograms. 



The fossil suggests that Anadoluvius lived in a dry forest environment and likely spent a significant amount of time on the ground.



"We have no limb bones but judging from its jaws and teeth, the animals found alongside it, and the geological indicators of the environment, Anadoluvius probably lived in relatively open conditions, unlike the forest settings of living great apes," said Professor Sevim Erol. 



"More like what we think the environments of early humans in Africa were like. The powerful jaws and large, thickly enameled teeth suggest a diet including hard or tough food items from terrestrial sources such as roots and rhizomes."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sharing-earth-with-anadoluvius-turkae">Sharing Earth with Anadoluvius turkae</h2>



The ecosystem in which Anadoluvius lived was similar to today's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grasslands-are-racing-to-adapt-to-climate-shifts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">African grasslands</a> and dry forests. It coexisted with animals such as giraffes, warthogs, rhinos, diverse antelopes, zebras, elephants, porcupines, hyenas, and lion-like carnivores. 



Research indicates that this ecological community likely dispersed into Africa from the eastern Mediterranean sometime after eight million years ago.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/human-ancestor_Anadoluvius-turkae_excavation_evolved-europe_credit-Sevim-Erol_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/human-ancestor_Anadoluvius-turkae_excavation_evolved-europe_credit-Sevim-Erol_1s.webp" alt="Excavation of the Anadoluvius turkae fossil, a significantly well-preserved partial cranium uncovered at the Çorakyerler fossil site in Türkiye in 2015. The fossil includes most of the facial structure and the front part of the brain case. Credit: Ayla Sevim-Erol" class="wp-image-1953375"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Excavation of the Anadoluvius turkae fossil, a significantly well-preserved partial cranium uncovered at the Çorakyerler fossil site in Türkiye in 2015. The fossil includes most of the facial structure and the front part of the brain case. Credit: Ayla Sevim-Erol</figcaption></figure>



"The founding of the modern African open country fauna from the eastern Mediterranean has long been known and now we can add to the list of entrants the ancestors of the African apes and humans," Erol added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-is-this-a-big-deal">Why is this a big deal?</h2>



Anadoluvius turkae is positioned on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-evolution-was-shaped-by-competition-not-just-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary tree</a> alongside other fossil apes from nearby regions, such as Ouranopithecus from Greece and Graecopithecus from Bulgaria. 



These fossils are the best-preserved specimens of early hominins and offer the strongest evidence to date that this group originated in Europe before moving into Africa.



The study's detailed analysis shows that Balkan and Anatolian apes evolved from ancestors in western and central Europe. 



This suggests that the entire group of hominins likely evolved and diversified in Europe, rather than separate branches moving independently into Europe from Africa over millions of years and then going extinct.



"There is no evidence of the latter, though it remains a favorite proposal among those who do not accept a European origin hypothesis," Begun noted. 



"These findings contrast with the long-held view that African apes and humans evolved exclusively in Africa. While the remains of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-preferred-the-mountains-and-it-changed-our-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early hominins</a> are abundant in Europe and Anatolia, they are completely absent from Africa until the first hominin appeared there about seven million years ago."



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



While the discovery of Anadoluvius turkae provides compelling evidence for a European origin of hominines, it does not definitively prove the theory. 



More fossils from Europe and Africa, dating between eight and seven million years old, are needed to establish a clear connection between the two regions.



This new evidence supports the hypothesis that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-oldest-wooden-structure-completely-rewrites-early-human-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hominins</a> originated in Europe and dispersed into Africa along with many other mammals between nine and seven million years ago, though it does not definitively prove it.



"For that, we need to find more fossils from Europe and Africa between eight and seven million years old to establish a definitive connection between the two groups," Begun concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anadoluvius-turkae-and-human-origins">Anadoluvius turkae and human origins</h2>



To sum it all up, if hominines did indeed originate in Europe, it could reshape our understanding of how and where humans evolved. 



It also highlights the importance of fossil sites outside of Africa, which have been underexplored in the quest to trace human origins.



Anadoluvius turkae adds a new species to the fossil record while providing a fresh perspective on the evolutionary journey of hominins. 



By bridging the gap between European and African fossil records, this discovery encourages scientists to revisit existing theories and consider new possibilities in the story of human origins.



As researchers continue to analyze the fossil and search for more evidence, the story of Anadoluvius turkae will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping our understanding of where we come from and how we evolved.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-023-05210-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Biology</a>.



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Humans originated in Europe, not Africa, according to fossil discovery

A recent discovery in Türkiye is shaking up our understanding...

Who knew that there's a significant bond between grizzly bears and huckleberries? Their interaction transcends the simple paradigm of consumption, offering a deep dive into the realm of plant ecology.



In a recent study led by scientists from the University of British Columbia's Vancouver and Okanagan campuses, an eye-opening revelation was made about grizzly bears.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grizzly-bears-feasting-on-huckleberries"> Grizzly bears feasting on huckleberries</h2>



The study was focused on the behavior of grizzly bears in the Canadian Rocky Mountains during the summer season. The researchers found that while these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/were-polar-bears-feasting-on-fish-in-scotland-30000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bears</a> enjoy a feast of huckleberries, they are doing more for the development of these plants than just eating.



"Bears don't just eat huckleberries - they help them grow in new places," noted Aza Fynley Kuijt, the study's lead researcher from UBC's <a href="https://forestry.ubc.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Faculty of Forestry</a>.



"Our findings show that this mutual relationship is crucial for both species, especially as climate change shifts suitable habitats for huckleberries."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bears-as-long-distance-seed-dispersers">Bears as long-distance seed dispersers</h2>



At the heart of the study, an aspect of plant ecology known as endozoochory was examined. 



Simply put, endozoochory is the process where animals eat fruits containing seeds and later disperse those seeds over large areas through their droppings. In the case of grizzly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-bear-conservation-leaps-forward-with-new-tracking-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bears</a> and huckleberries, the researchers found this process to be highly beneficial.



When bears eat huckleberries, the seeds travel through their digestive system and are deposited far from the original plant. This not only spreads the seeds to new areas but also improves their chances of germination, helping the huckleberries grow in fresh and potentially better-suited habitats.



The team found that seeds which pass through a grizzly bear’s digestive system are much more likely to sprout and grow into huckleberry plants. These seeds have a germination rate of up to 28.5%, compared to only 0.2% for seeds that remain inside uneaten berries.



Why the difference? The digestive process removes the berry pulp, which contains substances that prevent the seeds from sprouting (known as germination inhibitors). 



By breaking down this barrier, the bears’ digestion enhances the seeds’ ability to grow, making the process essential for the huckleberries’ reproduction and survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grizzly-bears-huckleberries-and-ecosystems">Grizzly bears, huckleberries, and ecosystems</h2>



Imagine the movement of seeds being akin to an expansive, rippling shadow, journeying up to seven kilometers (4.3 miles) from their original feeding site.



This is what the researchers discovered from the 74 collared grizzly bears observed in the study. Up to 50% of the seeds consumed by the bears were spread about a kilometer from their source.



With huckleberries being a vital food source for grizzly bears during the late summer, this seed dispersal mechanism holds profound implications. It helps the huckleberries adapt to changing climates by infiltrating new, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-life-and-environment-co-evolved-over-500-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">suitable habitats</a>. 



Human activities such as urban development, resource extraction, and increased recreational activities in bear habitats could potentially disrupt this crucial ecological partnership.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-ecological-processes">Protecting ecological processes</h2>



This study highlights the intricate connections between large mammals and their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-diets-can-reduce-environmental-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environments</a>. 



"Wildlife conservation is not just about protecting certain species, but about looking after ecological processes and relationships," said Clayton Lamb, co-author and <a href="https://ok.ubc.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UBC Okanagan</a> biologist. 



"As we show here, looking after grizzly bears and movement corridors can also help huckleberries, which people and bears both adore." 



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



Grizzly bears, a subspecies of the brown bear, are iconic symbols of North American wilderness. Known for their size and strength, adult males can weigh between 300 to 800 pounds, while females are slightly smaller. 



These omnivores have a diverse diet that includes plants, insects, fish, and mammals, but berries play a critical role in their nutrition during late summer and fall.



Grizzlies are highly intelligent and exhibit complex behaviors, such as tool use and strategic hunting. They rely heavily on large home ranges for survival, often spanning hundreds of square kilometers. 



However, habitat loss and fragmentation pose significant threats to their populations. Conservation efforts focus on creating wildlife corridors to connect isolated habitats, ensuring genetic diversity and long-term survival.



Interestingly, beyond huckleberry seed dispersal, grizzly bears also play a role in soil enrichment. By digging for roots or preying on animals, they disturb the soil, aiding in nutrient cycling. 



This behavior benefits plant growth and contributes to overall ecosystem health. Their status as a keystone species highlights their importance in maintaining ecological balance.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0311809" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



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Grizzly bears help huckleberries thrive in a changing climate

Who knew that there's a significant bond between grizzly bears...

For the first time, scientists have observed a massive glacial lake outburst in real-time in East Greenland. 



This rare event, captured by researchers from the University of Copenhagen, involved the release of over 3,000 billion liters of meltwater - equivalent to three times Denmark's annual water consumption - over just a few weeks.



The outburst provides critical insights into the immense power of meltwater and its potential hazards.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-a-glacial-outburst">What is a glacial outburst?</h2>



A&nbsp;glacial outburst&nbsp;(also known as a&nbsp;glacial lake outburst flood, or GLOF) is a sudden and rapid release of water from a glacial lake.



These lakes form when meltwater from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-ice-sheet-discovery-transforms-sea-level-predictions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a> collects behind natural dams of ice or debris. Over time, the pressure of the trapped water can cause the dam to break, allowing the water to rush out in large volumes. 



This can lead to flooding, erosion, and sometimes destruction of infrastructure or communities downstream. Glacial outbursts are becoming more frequent due to climate change, as rising temperatures increase glacier melt.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greenland-s-glacial-outburst">Greenland's glacial outburst</h2>



The glacial outburst occurred when Catalina Lake, located in East Greenland, suddenly unleashed its vast water reserves into the Scoresby Sound fjord. This staggering release of 3.4 cubic kilometers (about 0.8 cubic miles) of water places the event among the top three largest ever recorded.



Between September 23 and October 11, the lake's water level plummeted by 154 meters. For the first time, scientists used satellite imagery to monitor and measure the event in real time.



"We have previously found traces of similar outburst floods, but due to polar night and clouds obstructing the potential for satellite observations, this is the first time that researchers have been able to monitor an event and measure the water volumes in real time," explained Aslak Grinsted, a climate researcher from the <a href="https://nbi.ku.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Niels Bohr Institute</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mechanics-of-the-glacial-lake-outburst">Mechanics of the glacial lake outburst</h2>



Catalina Lake had been accumulating meltwater for over 20 years. The lake's water was trapped behind the massive Edward Bailey Glacier, which blocked its natural outflow. 



Over time, the water lifted the glacier, carving a 25-kilometer (15.5 miles) tunnel beneath the ice. This channel became the escape route for the lake’s water, unleashing it into Scoresby Sound, the world's largest fjord.



This type of event has been occurring with increasing frequency due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-models-underestimate-sea-ice-melt-and-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rising global temperatures</a>.



"The danger from glacier-dammed lakes is increasing due to global warming. It's vital to improve our understanding of this phenomenon to issue timely warnings should there be an imminent risk," emphasized Grinsted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-threat-of-glacial-floods">Global threat of glacial floods</h2>



Although Greenland’s sparse population meant this event caused no harm, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/speed-of-greenland-ice-melt-confirmed-to-be-rapidly-increasing-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential risks</a> are enormous in more densely populated areas. 



In regions like the Himalayas, GLOFs have destroyed villages and claimed lives. A 2023 study revealed that 15 million people worldwide live under the threat of deadly glacial floods.



"I expect that we will witness outbursts from even larger ice-dammed lakes as Greenland's ice sheet retreats in coming centuries," noted Grinsted.



"At the end of the last Ice Age, Lake Missoula had an outburst that was 2,500 times larger than the recent Catalina event. To understand these massive forces, we must study the largest outbursts when they occur."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enormous-power-and-energy-potential">Enormous power and energy potential </h2>



The energy released during such outbursts is truly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/collapse-of-main-atlantic-ocean-circulaton-current-amoc-is-already-happening/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immense</a>. "In this case, the energy released by the glacier flood was equivalent to the output of the world's largest nuclear power plant running at full capacity for 22 days," explained Grinsted.



The amount of energy from Greenland's glacial outburst could theoretically power a small town, providing 50 megawatts of electricity continuously. 



However, the logistical challenges of harnessing this energy remain significant. The nearest settlement to the Catalina Lake event is 180 kilometers away, with only 350 inhabitants.



"As with many other natural resources in Greenland, infrastructure is a problem. But if a brilliant engineer could figure out how to harness these meltwater <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-melting-new-tipping-point-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">outbursts</a>, there's enormous power and energy potential in them," concluded Grinsted.



The Greenland outburst highlights the growing risks posed by climate change and the need for continued research into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-will-the-antarctic-ice-sheet-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacial dynamics</a>. 



By understanding these massive forces, scientists hope to develop strategies for early warnings and, potentially, ways to harness their energy for sustainable purposes.



Image Credit: University of Copenhagen



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Massive glacial outburst observed in Greenland for the first time

For the first time, scientists have observed a massive glacial...

<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.

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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.



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https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
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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...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" 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.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

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" 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.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?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" 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 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

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

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

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

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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"

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

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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

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" 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 the province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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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

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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