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...

An incredible adventure under the volcanic ridges off South America has led to an amazing discovery. A variety of creatures, from tiny worms and snails to giant tubeworms and even more surprising life forms, are thriving in the dark waters of hydrothermal vents.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-beneath-hydrothermal-vents">Life beneath hydrothermal vents</h2>



Hydrothermal vents, the source of these hot springs, have long been the subject of research and study. 



These underwater chimneys of heat and energy are hubs of activity, attracting a wide variety of fauna that thrives in their immediate vicinity.



It was largely thought that the only life forms that could survive beneath these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sea-hydrothermal-vents-provide-clues-about-the-origin-of-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vents</a> would be microbes and viruses. 



However, our understanding of these habitats took an about-turn when a curious underwater robot, in the summer of last year, disturbed volcanic slabs to reveal a surprisingly diverse ecosystem beneath.



“This was totally unexpected,” said study co-author Sabine Gollner with the <a href="https://www.nioz.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unseen-ecosystem">Unseen ecosystem</h2>



Researchers propose that young creatures from the surface could be utilizing these vents for travel, eventually settling in the depths, creating a dynamic and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/five-new-hydrothermal-vents-discovered-in-the-pacific-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interconnected ecosystem</a>. 



Future exploration will hopefully shed more light on whether similar colonies of animal life exist beneath other hydrothermal vents across the globe.



“This is an initial discovery that’s really promising,” said Jason Sylvan, a microbiologist at <a href="https://www.tamu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Texas A&amp;M University</a> who was not involved with the research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-clusters-around-hydrothermal-vents">Life clusters around hydrothermal vents</h2>



The expedition lasted 30 days and took place on the research vessel "Falkor (too)" from the Schmidt Ocean Institute. 



The team set out on an incredible adventure to explore an undersea volcano that’s part of the East Pacific Rise, just off the coast of Central America.



This volcanic ridge, a product of the meeting of tectonic plates on the Pacific seabed, is peppered with hydrothermal vents. 



A variety of unique sea life clusters around these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/knipovich-ridge-new-hydrothermal-field-arctic-intense-geological-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vents</a>, known to spew out elements essential for their survival at such extreme depths.



Many of these areas beneath the vents, however, have remained largely unexplored until now.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-under-rocks">Life under rocks</h2>



Using a remotely operated vehicle, SuBastian, the researchers were able to flip over portions of the seafloor, revealing caves connected to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-giant-riftia-tubeworms-survive-on-deep-sea-hydrothermal-vents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrothermal vents</a>. 



These caves were teeming with life, including giant tube worms and other fascinating creatures. 



The discovery suggests a strong connection and interaction between the ecosystems of the seafloor and its underworld, allowing for the possibility of life thriving in unexpected places beneath the ocean floor.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-underworld-of-the-seafloor">"Underworld" of the seafloor</h2>



Hydrothermal vents have been an area of interest for scientists for the past 50 years, with unique ecosystems developing around these heat sources.



It has been observed that shifting tectonic plates give rise to new hydrothermal vents over time, and certain foundational seafloor animals like tube worms have been known to colonize these new vents within a few years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-earth-s-lifeforms">New perspective on Earth's lifeforms</h2>



This discovery provides a new perspective on deep-sea hydrothermal vents and their endemic animal life. 



It suggests a symbiotic relationship between the vent animals above and below the surface, reliant on the vent fluid from beneath and oxygen in the seawater from above.



The discovery of life in this previously unknown sub-habitat suggests that the ocean depths and its floor may host many more organisms than documented earlier.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-steps-in-hydrothermal-life-studies">Next steps in hydrothermal life studies</h2>



Going forward, the team is keen on investigating the possibility of life beneath all deep-sea hydrothermal vents and exploring the extent of these underground caves.



However, extreme care must be taken when studying these delicate ecosystems. The researchers are conscious of minimizing disturbance, with the recent study only involving the lifting of six small squares of the seafloor, each measuring about 20 by 20 inches. 



There is concern that any major disruption, such as large-scale drilling or deep-sea mining, could potentially alter the course of the hydrothermal vents and disrupt the connected ecosystems, posing a threat to the life forms dwelling there.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-life-under-hydrothermal-vents-is-important">Why life under hydrothermal vents is important</h2>



Hydrothermal vent ecosystems are fascinating and hold important lessons for both marine biology and the search for life beyond Earth. 



These vibrant communities thrive in extreme conditions that seem unwelcoming, pushing us to rethink what we know about where life can survive. 



One of the coolest aspects is how these habitats rely on chemosynthesis instead of photosynthesis, using chemical energy from minerals released by the vents. 



This unique survival strategy not only captivates marine ecologists but also sparks our imagination about the possibility of life on other planets, where sunlight might be hard to come by, but chemical energy could be plentiful.



This research not only sheds light on the mysterious <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ringwoodite-mineral-confirms-vast-ocean-exists-400-miles-under-earths-crust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">underworld of the ocean</a> but also highlights the importance of attentive and responsible exploration. It is a testimony to the fact that there is still much to be learned about our planet, often in the places we least expect.



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



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Strange creatures found living under the seafloor near hydrothermal vents

An incredible adventure under the volcanic ridges off South America...

It's no secret that our planet is feeling the heat, quite literally. Rising temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns, and melting polar ice caps all point to one undeniable reality. We, the residents of Earth, must accept responsibility for the ongoing climate crisis. 



Human activities, especially greenhouse gas emissions, are key contributors to this crisis. Even with the adoption of climate-friendly solutions like electric vehicles (EVs), our carbon footprint remains a major challenge we must address.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-the-auto-industry">The role of the auto industry</h2>



The automobile industry, notorious for being a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, is putting its best foot forward to reduce this footprint. 



A noticeable shift is being made towards EVs, a cleaner alternative to their gas-guzzling counterparts. These high-tech vehicles, unlike traditional cars, release no tailpipe emissions while being operated. 



But are electric vehicles the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electric-vehicles-could-save-billions-in-health-care-costs-by-2050/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">silver bullet solution</a> to the crisis our planet is facing?



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



A recent report presents some bold claims and equally surprising findings regarding the owners of electric vehicles.



This report, written by three experts from the <a href="https://www.utu.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Turku</a> in Finland, dives deep into the environmental impact of owning an electric vehicle. 



The team, including psychologists Nils Sandman and Elisa Sahari and economist Aki Koponen, have brought to light an intriguing question: does owning an EV necessarily equate to a reduced carbon footprint?



The findings point to a curious answer. The average electric vehicle owner, who tends to be wealthier than the average person, still leaves behind a sizeable carbon footprint.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-footprint-of-electric-vehicle-owners">Carbon footprint of electric vehicle owners </h2>



The Finnish team analyzed data from the CLIMATE NUDGE survey conducted across Finland in 2022. The survey took into account lifestyle choices of several thousands of adults, and the researchers sifted through responses from 3 857 of these participants.



The findings could not be more clear. Owners of electric vehicles are generally wealthier and more educated. They also, as it turns out, drive more every year.



So, how is it that despite switching to EVs, these wealthier individuals still contribute significantly to carbon emissions? 



Well, the answer isn't as direct as one might think. Wealthier individuals tend to consume more electricity, largely produced at carbon-spewing coal-fired plants. In addition, the production of expensive goods is also linked to greenhouse gas emissions.



And let's not forget their penchant for driving and traveling more, which nullifies the benefits of driving an electric vehicle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-carbon-emissions">Reducing carbon emissions</h2>



The findings of this study make us rethink our approach towards climate change. It's not simply about switching from a gas-guzzler to an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-electric-car-battery-charges-in-just-4-5-minutes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EV</a>. 



The battle against climate change calls for a holistic lifestyle change, taking into account the many ways our daily life impacts the environment.



The conclusion is quite straightforward - EVs, while a step in the right direction, are not the magic solution for reducing carbon footprints.



The findings highlight the need for a more comprehensive approach to reducing carbon dioxide emissions. 



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



Technological advancements are acting as the wind beneath the wings of the drive for sustainability. Beyond EVs, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electric-car-batteries-may-soon-be-made-of-rock/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">innovations in renewable energy</a> sources such as solar and wind power play a crucial role.



These sources offer an alternative to fossil fuel-driven electricity and help decrease the carbon intensity of our energy consumption. 



And that's not all. Major strides in battery storage and grid management are allowing us to harness these resources more efficiently. We can, thus, balance economic growth and environmental conservation, inching towards a more sustainable equilibrium.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shift-toward-electric-vehicles">Shift toward electric vehicles </h2>



However, technology alone is not the solution. Government policies and frameworks are equally important in steering societal transitions towards sustainability. Policies can promote cleaner industries and incentivize green practices.



Think of carbon pricing - it not only holds the emitters accountable but also encourages innovation in low-carbon technologies like EVs. 



Initiatives that support public transportation, energy-efficient infrastructure, sustainable urban planning - they all can all help to reduce emissions.



But for these policies to be successful, public awareness and participation are crucial. Building a collective consciousness about sustainability is, therefore, imperative to ensure that these policy interventions have a lasting impact



Remember, every <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-costs-electric-vehicle-tires-emit-20-more-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy-saving decision</a> we make contributes to a greener, more sustainable planet. The shift towards electric vehicles is indeed a significant part of this journey. But, as highlighted by the Finnish study, we must remember to look at the larger picture.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/climate/article?id=10.1371/journal.pclm.0000346" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS Climate</a>.



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Why electric vehicle owners have high carbon footprints

It's no secret that our planet is feeling the heat,...

After a seemingly endless pandemic, we've all become a tad obsessed with scrubbing, sanitizing, and disinfecting our urban environments. But as we buckle up and venture into the new normal, a lingering question remains - are we inadvertently rearranging the microbes in cities?



In an intriguing new study, scientists have unveiled some fascinating insights into how our daily behaviors are altering the microbial ecosystem in our homes, offices, and public spaces.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-city-zone-of-microbes">City zone of microbes</h2>



"Built environments offer distinct conditions that set them apart from natural and engineered habitats,” said Dr. Xinzhao Tong, an assistant professor at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (<a href="https://www.xjtlu.edu.cn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">XJTLU</a>), China, and lead author of the study.



“Areas with many buildings are low in the traditional nutrients and essential resources microbes need for survival, so these built environments have a unique <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-laid-the-foundation-for-early-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbiome</a>."



Dr. Tong explained that our use of cleaning and other manufactured products creates a unique setting that puts selective pressures on microbes, which they must adapt to or be eliminated.



However, noted Dr. Tong, the mechanisms by which microbes adapt and survive in built environments are poorly understood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-census-of-city-microbes">Unique census of city microbes </h2>



Our cities teem with life that's invisible to the naked eye, notably within the urban microbiome. Dr. Tong and her team performed a unique census of these unseen citizens. 



The researchers collected 738 samples from a range of built environments in Hong Kong - from public facilities and residences to subways, piers, and even human skin.



The analysis yielded astounding results - 363 never-before-identified microbial strains <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-found-alive-inside-a-rock-after-2-billion-years-beneath-earth-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">co-habiting our skin and surroundings</a>. Some of them even possessed genes that allow them to consume city-specific products as a source of energy. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-city-microbes-utilizing-limited-resources">City microbes utilizing limited resources </h2>



One resilient strain was originally spotted in the harsh desert soils of Antarctica and can now be found chomping down ammonium ions in cleaning products.



“The genome of this novel strain of Eremiobacterota enables it to metabolize ammonium ions found in cleaning products. The strain also has genes for alcohol and aldehyde dehydrogenases to break down residual alcohol found in common disinfectants," said Dr. Tong.



“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wastewater-bacteria-break-down-plastic-waste-for-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microbes</a> possessing enhanced capabilities to utilize limited resources and tolerate manufactured products, such as disinfectants and metals, out-compete non-resistant strains, enhancing their survival and even evolution within built environments. They could, therefore, pose health risks if they are pathogenic.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diverse-strains-of-city-microbes">Diverse strains of city microbes </h2>



Not all of our microscopic co-dwellers are welcome guests. Among the newly identified strains were 11 unique incarnations of Micrococcus luteus. This type of bacteria is typically harmless to humans, but capable of causing adverse reactions in individuals with weakened immune systems.



While some bacteria adapt to become resistant to our cleaning practices, others have taken a different survival route. 



Meet the "nanobacteria" - tiny, enigmatic bacteria with minuscule genomes that lack the resources to fend for themselves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symbiotic-relationship-with-humans">Symbiotic relationship with humans</h2>



Within these, the researchers found a strain that had evolved a symbiotic relationship with its human host, producing vital antioxidant compounds in return for shelter and sustenance.



“Some strains of Patescibacteria are considered parasitic as they rely on bacterial hosts to supply their nutrients. However, in this study, the researchers found that one of the nanobacteria strains, recovered from human skin, contains genes for the biosynthesis of carotenoids and ubiquinone," noted Dr. Tong.



"These antioxidant compounds are vital to humans, and we typically acquire them, especially carotenoids, through our diets, suggesting a possible mutualistic relationship between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/balancing-gut-microbes-could-protect-us-from-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria</a> and us as their hosts.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-changes-in-city-microbes">Dynamic changes in city microbes </h2>



An insightful exploration into the microbial compositions of urban environments reveals a symphony of interactions that extend beyond mere existence. These tiny organisms are constantly communicating, competing, and cooperating in ways that intricately influence their surroundings. 



The cityscape acts as both an orchestra and a battleground where genetic exchanges enhance survival capabilities amidst diverse conditions. By analyzing microbial DNA, researchers can trace these interactions, shedding light on how urban ecosystems foster microbial coexistence and resilience. 



This evolving knowledge not only enriches our understanding of microbial ecology but also holds the potential to inform public health strategies by recognizing microbial patterns that could influence epidemic dynamics.



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



Despite remarkable scientific advancements, significant gaps remain in our comprehension of urban microbiomes and their broader implications on human health and environmental stability. 



Dr. Tong and her colleagues emphasize the need for cross-disciplinary collaboration, blending fields like microbiology, urban planning, and public health to create a cohesive landscape of understanding. 



By aligning scientific inquiry with public education initiatives, we can empower communities to make informed decisions that support both microbial diversity and human health. 



As researchers know more on the microbes of our cities, they envisage a future where urban living can harmoniously integrate with a flourishing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toxic-microbes-aerosols-can-travel-thousands-of-miles-through-the-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbial biosphere</a>, ultimately promoting a healthier, more sustainable coexistence.



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



This expansive study, exploring how microbes adapt and thrive in our built environments, could help devise better strategies for cultivating a beneficial microbial ecosystem indoors. 



The research team is now investigating the evolution of resistance in pathogenic microbes within intensive care units, with the aim of enhancing infection control practices and safeguarding the health of healthcare workers and patients.



In essence, it's about striking a balance, where we can co-exist with our microbial friends in our cityscapes, learning from each other, and evolving together for a healthier future. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://microbiomejournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40168-024-01926-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microbiome</a>.



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City microbes are finding surprising new ways to survive

After a seemingly endless pandemic, we've all become a tad...

A recent study on aquaculture reveals that the journey from ocean to oven might be more complex and increasingly unsustainable.



Do you ever wonder how salmon or trout makes it to your dinner plate? While you might be thinking of a quaint fishing boat bobbing peacefully in the ocean, the reality could be quite different.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-side-of-aquaculture">Hidden side of aquaculture</h2>



The study reveals that our global aquaculture industry, commonly known as fish farming, potentially relies on much more wild-caught fish than we had previously anticipated. 



This revelation shakes the long-standing belief of a sustainable aquaculture industry and proposes a range of plausible estimates on its actual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aquaculture-now-produces-more-food-than-wild-fishing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact on wild fish</a> populations.



The new insights are the result of rigorous research conducted by an international team of scientists from the University of Miami <a href="https://www.earth.miami.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science</a>, Oceana, and New York University.



The team has reconsidered the "fish-in:fish-out" (FI:FO) ratio – a significant metric used to judge the efficiency and sustainability of aquaculture.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ratio-of-wild-caught-fish">Ratio of wild-caught fish</h2>



The study suggests that the ratio of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/90-percent-of-the-worlds-aquaculture-faces-substantial-risk-from-human-induced-environmental-changes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wild-caught fish</a> used as input to farmed fish yielded as output is somewhere between 27% and 307% higher than previous estimates.



This could mean that for every farmed fish reaching our tables, up to 1.78 wild fish might have been used in the process, a far cry from the earlier estimate of only 0.28. Particularly for carnivorous farmed species like salmon, trout, and eel, the wild fish used might be double the farmed fish produced.



"Our study reveals that the aquaculture industry relies more heavily on wild fish extraction than previous research has suggested,” said lead author Spencer Roberts, a doctoral student at the Rosenstiel School in the Department of Environmental Science and Policy.



“This demonstrates the scale at which aquaculture could be impacting marine ecosystems."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overlooked-reliance-on-wild-fish">Overlooked reliance on wild fish </h2>



The research team dug deep and brought to light previously overlooked sources of wild fish in aquaculture feed, such as trimmings and by-products from wild-caught fish. 



The experts also factored in collateral fishing mortality, like the practice of "slipping" where unwanted catch is released, but most don't survive.



Jennifer Jacquet is a co-author of the study and a professor in the Department of Environmental Science and Policy at the Rosenstiel School.



"This research shows that the assumptions we have made about carnivorous aquaculture have been too optimistic, and is another reason to think strategically about the kinds of aquatic species it makes the most sense to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-fishing-gets-a-boost-from-genomics-roadmap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mass produce</a>,” said Professor Jacquet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trade-offs-in-the-aquaculture-industry">Trade-offs in the aquaculture industry </h2>



The study also casts light on the environmental trade-offs made in attempts to reduce wild fish use in aquaculture feed. The decline in wild fish use would require a five-fold increase in the use of terrestrial crops instead. 



The study ominously suggests that the aquaculture industry's rapidly increasing reliance on by-products and trimmings hasn't phased out the capture and use of whole wild fish for feed.



Dr. Patricia Majluf is a senior scientist with <a href="https://oceana.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oceana</a> in Peru, home to the world's largest fishmeal fishery.



"The offshore aquaculture industry is growing so rapidly that the wild-caught fish are not being replaced in their feed. Instead, other feed sources are merely supplementing wild fish use," explained Dr. Majluf.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dependency-of-aquaculture-on-wild-fish">Dependency of aquaculture on wild fish</h2>



The research exposes the need to reevaluate current aquaculture practices under the lens of sustainability.



It's becoming increasingly clear that merely supplementing diets with terrestrial crops or leveraging by-products will not suffice in mitigating the environmental impacts highlighted by this research. 



An interdisciplinary approach involving marine biologists, ecologists, and economists could guide the development of innovative solutions to reduce dependency on wild fish. 



We must explore alternatives not only for feed but for the aquaculture production process as a whole to strike a balance between meeting global food demands and preserving marine ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-seafood-strategies">Sustainable seafood strategies </h2>



As aquaculture remains a critical component of global food security, we must turn our attention towards pioneering technology and sustainable methodologies.



Industry leaders are called to invest in research and development aiming at alternative protein sources, such as insect-based feeds or lab-grown alternatives, which show promise in reducing reliance on wild fish. 



Meanwhile, consumer awareness regarding sustainable seafood choices can drive demand for responsibly farmed species.



The future of aquaculture depends on our collective commitment to innovate and comprehensive policies to promote sustainability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-transparency-and-accountability">Need for transparency and accountability</h2>



This eye-opening study raises important questions for policy-makers, investors, and consumers alike. 



The need for comprehensive and transparent reporting of feed ingredients in the aquaculture industry has never been more important.



"It's crucial that we have a more complete understanding of the industry's impact on both marine and terrestrial ecosystems and reduce these uncertainties,” said study co-author Professor Matthew Hayek of New York University.



As our global demand for seafood continues to balloon, these findings emphasize the urgent need for more transparency in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-illuminates-fish-interactions-in-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish</a> farming.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adn9698" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Aquaculture impacts wild fish much more than we thought

A recent study on aquaculture reveals that the journey from...

We are all familiar with terrestrial volcanoes, including their magnificent eruptions and lava flows. But how about we skip the Earthly encounters and dive deep into the cosmos? We are talking about stellar volcanoes - a spectacle that is truly out of this world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symbiotic-binary-star-system">Symbiotic binary star system</h2>



Imagine a pinprick of light, about 700 light-years away - not just any light, but a binary star system named R Aquarii. This celestial pair is known to exhibit mind-boggling eruptions that eject colossal amounts of nuclear matter into the encompassing space. 



Part of the 150 known variable stars, R Aquarii is classified as a "symbiotic system." Think of it as a stellar tag-team featuring a cool red giant star and a small white dwarf companion.



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-moon-had-active-volcanoes-just-120-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stellar</a> buddies are cozily ensconced within a neon nebula, a byproduct of escaping gas from the red giant.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-two-stars-and-a-stellar-volcano">Two stars and a stellar volcano</h2>



These two stars aren't just idly hanging out. In fact, they are engaged in a complex dance sequence that at times gets a bit...explosive.



As the dwarf star makes its close approach to the red giant, it "borrows" some hydrogen and then - kaboom! The dwarf star's surface goes through a thermonuclear explosion akin to a stellar volcano.



And the fallout? Twisted, vibrant filaments of gas that travel as far as the eye can see - or rather, as far as the <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/hubble/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble Space Telescope</a> can see.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galactic-graffiti-by-hubble">Galactic graffiti by Hubble</h2>



The Hubble Space Telescope has kept a watchful eye on R Aquarii since 1990. The most recent images reveal an artistic display of colorful filaments reaching far beyond the binary star system.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="DFU3jR2rvW-3935093-12187" type="single"]</div>



Enter Dr. Edwin Hubble, the man whose foresight led to the discovery of this nebula's expansion back in 1939. This revelation was later substantiated in the 1970s when astronomers found jets of matter streaking out in various directions.



In more recent times, we've come to understand that R Aquarii has been through a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-exoplanet-glows-with-red-hot-molten-lava/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">series of violent eruptions</a>, with the most recent one probably taking place in the late 1970s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-explosive-power-of-the-stellar-volcano">Explosive power of the stellar volcano</h2>



The white dwarf star makes its closest approach to the red giant, pilfers some hydrogen, and then the dwarf star's surface experiences the mother of all eruptions. Think of it as a stellar hydrogen bomb going off.



The result? A geyser-like ejection of filaments shooting out from the core, forming fascinating loops and trails. These filaments glow in visible light, powered by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-magma-traced-to-melting-in-earths-crust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">harsh radiation</a> emanating from the stellar duo.



And just how fast are these filaments shooting out? Try a mind-bending one million miles per hour. That's like saying, "Hold my beer, I'll be back from the Moon in 15 minutes."



In astronomical terms, the scale of this event is nothing short of astronomical. The materials ejected through these eruptions can be traced at least 248 billion miles from the stars. That's about 24 times the diameter of our solar system.



These phenomenal observations have made the Hubble Space Telescope an indispensable tool in our cosmic journey, redefining our understanding of the universe, one stellar volcano at a time.



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



The ongoing exploration of R Aquarii not only mesmerizes with its visual splendor but also offers profound implications for the field of astrophysics. 



By examining the patterns of ejection and analyzing the composition of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/city-sized-devil-comet-set-to-erupt-again-tomorrow/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expelled gases</a>, astrophysicists can gain insights into the lifecycle of symbiotic star systems. It expands our knowledge of how stars evolve, interact, and ultimately influence their surroundings. 



Learning more about how these explosions affect the ambient environment can also provide clues about the role of similar phenomena in galactic evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-cosmic-exploration">Future of cosmic exploration</h2>



R Aquarii serves as a cosmic laboratory where theoretical models meet real-world phenomena, challenging and refining our understanding of the universe.



With Hubble's continued operation of over three decades, we can expect many more revelations about these fascinating cosmic pyrotechnics. 



The project is part of an international collaboration between <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> and the European Space Agency (<a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>).



Video/ Image Credit: NASA/ ESA/ Hubble



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Stellar volcano: Hubble captures the explosive dance of two stars

We are all familiar with terrestrial volcanoes, including their magnificent...

Everyone loves trees. If you don't, you should! Trees are nature's stalwart allies -- providing shade, natural beauty, and most importantly, working tirelessly to purify our air. 



However, recent findings prompt us to ponder if some trees might, in their unique way, contribute to air pollution. Could that oak tree you so admire in your yard be a part of the problem?



Tom Sharkey, an esteemed scientists at <a href="https://msu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michigan State University</a>, has been studying this interesting possibility. Recently, Sharkey posed a thought-provoking question: "Should we cut down all the oak trees?" 



Don't worry, he's not serious about chopping them down. Instead, he's highlighting a complex issue uncovered by his latest research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-isoprene-oak-trees-and-climate-change">Isoprene, oak trees, and climate change</h2>



At the center of this discussion is a compound called isoprene. Many people haven't heard of it, but it's important in both plant biology and environmental science. 



Isoprene is a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-diversity-takes-a-hard-hit-near-offshore-platforms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrocarbon</a> that trees like oaks and poplars release, especially during photosynthesis. It helps plants deal with stress like high temperatures and insect attacks, acting like a natural defense.



"Working with Tom, you realize plants really do emit a lot of isoprene," says Mohammad Mostofa, an assistant professor in Sharkey's lab. But this emission has a downside. 



While isoprene makes plants more resilient, it can also react with pollutants like nitrogen oxides -- from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traffic-related-air-pollution-might-increase-alzheimers-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">car exhausts</a> and industrial activities -- to form <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/decline-in-ozone-depleting-chemicals-is-an-encouraging-trend/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ground-level ozone</a> and fine particulate matter. These pollutants can lead to health problems like respiratory issues. 



The Environmental Protection Agency (<a href="https://www.epa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EPA</a>) notes that exposure to ground-level ozone can cause chest pain, coughing, and throat irritation, and can worsen conditions like bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-temperatures-and-isoprene-production">Rising temperatures and isoprene production</h2>



Sharkey and his team published their findings in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. They wanted to understand how rising temperatures and increased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide levels</a> affect how much isoprene plants produce. 



"We were looking for a regulation point in isoprene's biosynthesis pathway under high carbon dioxide," explains Abira Sahu, the lead author and a postdoctoral research associate in Sharkey's group. "Scientists have been trying to find this for a long time, and finally, we have the answer."



Their experiments with poplar plants showed that while higher carbon dioxide levels can reduce isoprene production, increased temperatures have a stronger effect in boosting it. 



"By the time you're at 95 degrees Fahrenheit -- 35 degrees Celsius -- there's basically no CO₂ suppression. Isoprene is pouring out like crazy," Sharkey explained.



In fact, when a leaf experienced a temperature rise of 10 degrees Celsius, its isoprene emission increased more than tenfold. 



This suggests that as the planet warms, plants could emit significantly more isoprene, potentially making <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-and-bushes-near-highways-improve-air-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality</a> problems worse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-isoprene-as-an-environmental-dilemma">Isoprene as an environmental dilemma</h2>



This discovery presents a tricky situation. On one hand, isoprene helps plants survive environmental stresses, which is important as climate change brings more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-predicts-global-warmings-impact-on-extreme-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme weather</a>. 



On the other hand, increased isoprene emissions can worsen air pollution, posing health risks to people and animals.



"Do we want plants to make more isoprene so they're more resilient, or do we want them making less so it's not making <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-profoundly-impairs-childrens-cognitive-abilities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air pollution</a> worse? What's the right balance?" Sharkey asks. 



These are tough questions without easy answers. The relationship between plant emissions and air quality is more complicated than we thought, and it requires careful consideration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-searching-for-solutions">Searching for solutions</h2>



One possible solution is to be more selective about the types of trees we plant, especially in cities. 



Michigan State University, with over 20,000 trees, could set an example by planting fewer isoprene-emitting species like oaks and poplars, and choosing trees that emit less isoprene, such as certain maples or pines.



"We could be doing a better job," says Mostofa. By carefully choosing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-struggling-to-breathe-store-co2-hotter-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree species</a>, communities can help reduce isoprene emissions without losing the benefits that trees provide. 



This approach would involve cooperation between scientists, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-too-many-trees-could-spoil-the-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban planners</a>, and policymakers to make informed decisions.



But Sharkey has another idea. "My suggestion is that we should do a better job controlling nitrogen oxide pollution," he posits. 



By reducing emissions from vehicles, power plants, and industrial processes, we can lower the amount of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nitrous-oxide-emissions-have-increased-at-an-unprecedented-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nitrogen oxides</a> that react with isoprene. 



Tackling the problem from both sides -- reducing pollution sources and managing tree types -- could be more effective.



Public awareness and policy changes are key to addressing this issue. Educating communities about how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-are-relocating-in-a-race-against-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">different tree species</a> impact air quality can lead to better choices in urban planning. 



Policymakers can also support efforts to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions and encourage research into plants that are both resilient and low in isoprene emissions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bigger-picture">The bigger picture</h2>



Isoprene emissions have global implications -- it's the second most emitted hydrocarbon on Earth, after methane emissions from human activities. 



While methane has been widely studied because of its impact on climate change, isoprene hasn't received as much attention. 



However, isoprene contributes to the formation of secondary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aerosol-formation-earths-lower-atmosphere-soas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">organic aerosols</a>, which affect cloud formation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainfall-is-increasingly-unpredictable-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate patterns</a>. These aerosols can influence the Earth's climate system in significant ways.



Understanding the role of isoprene in our atmosphere is essential as we develop strategies to fight climate change. 



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



Sharkey’s findings show the need for ongoing research. As climate change continues to alter natural processes, we must keep learning and adapting. 



"The more we understand, the more effectively we can answer these fundamental questions," Sharkey says. 



Future studies might explore ways to reduce isoprene emissions without harming plant resilience or find plant varieties that emit less isoprene but still thrive.



Combining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-sleap-creating-new-plants-that-help-fight-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant biology</a>, atmospheric science, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-plastics-treaty-tackles-the-pollution-problem-directly-at-the-source/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental policy</a> will be crucial in developing strategies to manage isoprene emissions and their impact on air quality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trees-isoprene-and-our-warming-world">Trees, isoprene, and our warming world</h2>



To sum it all up, the relationship between trees, pollution, and climate change is complex. It's not about cutting down all the oaks or poplars, but about finding solutions that balance the benefits and drawbacks of isoprene emissions. 



With continued research, smart urban planning, and effective <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemical-composition-of-us-air-pollution-has-changed-over-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution control</a>, we can aim for a future where our forests stay healthy and our air is clean.



Tom Sharkey and his team at Michigan State University are leading the way in understanding these complex interactions. 



Sarathi Weraduwage, a former postdoctoral researcher in Sharkey's lab and now an assistant professor at Bishop's University in Quebec, also contributed to the research. 



Their work emphasizes the importance of looking deeper into how our environment works. By balancing the roles of trees as both helpers and potential polluters, we can develop strategies that support both nature and human health.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2309536120" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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“Should we cut down all the oak trees?” Strange question, serious concept

Everyone loves trees. If you don't, you should! Trees are...

Nourishing a child is more than just keeping tummies filled; it's about promoting healthy eating habits that begin at infancy and shape their dietary behavior for a lifetime.



Developing these habits requires careful attention to how children respond to food, as early experiences with eating can influence their preferences and self-regulation. 



Furthermore, the role of caregivers and the broader environment cannot be underestimated, as these external factors can significantly impact a child's long-term relationship with food. 



As we explore the fascinating world of children's appetite, we find numerous biological, psychological, and social factors at play. 



A team of dedicated researchers from the <a href="https://illinois.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign</a> has shed light on this intricate relationship.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oversimplified-approach-to-obesity">Oversimplified approach to obesity</h2>



Study lead author&nbsp;Sehyun Ju, a doctoral student in the&nbsp;Department of Human Development and Family Studies, explained how the widespread approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-obesity-rates-are-surging-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity</a> tends to be oversimplified.



“When we talk about obesity, the common advice is often to just eat less and exercise more. That’s a simplistic recommendation, which almost makes it seem like an individual's willpower solely determines their approach to food,” said Ju.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-appetite-and-eating-habits">Appetite and eating habits</h2>



The researchers examined the concept of "appetite self-regulation" as a conduit for healthy development and keeping obesity at bay. This unique form of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bad-behavior-at-work-linked-to-low-levels-of-self-regulation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">self-regulation</a> involves an individual's ability to manage their food intake.



Children are born with a basic capacity to manage their appetite according to hunger and satiety signals. However, as they grow older and engage into a wider range of experiences, these innate signals are gradually overshadowed by psychological motivations. 



Therefore, it is important to take a developmental perspective to trace changes in eating behaviors over time, noted Ju.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-healthy-eating-needs-of-children">Healthy eating needs of children</h2>



The researchers have proposed a comprehensive framework based on the biopsychosocial pathways model. 



This model highlights three interacting categories: Biological factors include sensory experience, physiological hunger and satiety signals, brain-gut interaction, and the influence of the gut microbiome. 



Psychological factors encompass emotional self-regulation, cognitive control, stress regulation, and reward processing. Meanwhile, social factors include parental behavior and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeding-children-healthy-diets-can-be-very-challenging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feeding practices</a>, culture, geographic location, and food insecurity.



The team has combined this model with the temperamental theory to understand how individual temperament can modify these pathways.



 This approach offers valuable insights into how different children may react uniquely to the same environmental and emotional stimuli, paving the way for more personalized strategies to promote healthy eating habits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-influencing-eating-habits">Factors influencing eating habits</h2>



Children, in their unique emotional and psychological make-up, respond differently to various stimuli. For instance, their openness to novelty and positive anticipation can influence their willingness to experiment with new foods.



Parental pressure to eat can have a counterproductive impact on children who exhibit heightened sensitivity to negative emotions, leading to reduced consumption.



The model takes into account the different developmental stages of children, noticing a shift from simple <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/taste-buds-are-the-first-line-of-defense-against-eating-too-much-and-too-fast/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">appetite</a> regulation based on physiological cues in infants to more complex self-control and emotional regulation by the age of 5.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-individual-responses-to-food">Individual responses to food</h2>



Socio-environmental factors, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cultural-learning-begins-in-infancy-during-parent-child-imitation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">parent-child interactions</a> around food and non-food-related caregiver practices, can significantly impact a child's emotional regulation. 



Other influences include the household food environment, the cultural value of food intake, and food availability.



Each child's response to food could be viewed as a reward, a pleasure-seeking activity, or a mechanism to regulate emotions. 



The motives behind their food-approach behavior can be quite varied and largely influenced by external factors and temperamental characteristics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-healthy-eating-in-children">Supporting healthy eating in children </h2>



Researchers can use the proposed model to guide future studies, focusing on specific pathways based on their topic of interest.



For instance, Ju is currently conducting a study to investigate parent-child interactions during mealtime with the aim to understand how a child's temperament influences their food-approach behavior.



“If we understand the differential susceptibility to various factors, we can identify and modify the environmental influences that are particularly obesogenic based on children's temperamental characteristics. Then we will be able to provide more refined approaches to support children's healthy eating behavior,” Ju explained.



“Or, if children experience food insecurity, they might demonstrate certain reward responses towards food stimuli."



Ju noted that even if food insecurity is alleviated, we may still need to help children build a secure, positive relationship with food that is not stress-induced or that does not use food as a primary means to fulfill their emotional needs.



"If we understand the pathways, we could tailor our approaches to support children by addressing all these factors," concluded Ju.



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How can we help children adopt a healthy approach to eating?

Nourishing a child is more than just keeping tummies filled;...

A recent revelation spells trouble for bumblebees, or more specifically, for the queens of the hive. Researchers have come across a worrying trend: bumblebee queens seem to prefer soil infested with pesticides for their hibernation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unpredictable-bumblebee-behavior">Unpredictable bumblebee behavior </h2>



The research was led by Dr. Nigel Raine and Dr. Sabrina Rondeau from the <a href="https://www.uoguelph.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Guelph</a>.



"Some bee behaviors are not well understood, and we wanted to see if these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-bumblebees-hold-their-breath-and-survive-underwater/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bumblebee queens</a> exhibited avoidance behavior that might reduce their risk of harm from&nbsp;pesticide exposure&nbsp;in the field. But these results were alarming," said Dr. Raine.



The researchers embarked on a field experiment to decipher this puzzling behavior. Newly emerged queens of a common bumblebee, Bombus impatiens, were given the freedom to flit around in outdoor enclosures, mate, and select their hibernation ground.



The choice? It was between pesticide-free soil and soil swimming in a cocktail of five common pesticides. 



The scientists scoured the soils for hibernating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-climate-change-is-buzzing-off-bumblebee-senses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">queens</a>. They found that the bees mostly avoided the pesticide-free soil. In fact, the queens were about twice as likely to be drawn to the soil the was polluted with pesticides. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bumblebee-preference-for-contaminated-soil">Bumblebee preference for contaminated soil</h2>



The preference of bumblebees for pesticide-laden soil throws light on a harsh reality that could lead to dire consequences. 



While most bees in the study survived, potential impacts on the colony have been highlighted in the study.



The causes for this aberration are still not clear. However, one thing stands out like a sore thumb - this pattern could significantly affect the health of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-temperatures-are-overheating-bumblebee-nests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">these essential pollinators</a>.



"We were not expecting this result," said Dr. Rondeau. "It suggests that queens could actually prefer these contaminated soils, though we don't yet fully understand why."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-driving-this-soil-preference">What is driving this soil preference?</h2>



The silver lining? Well, there is some speculation around why the queens might find pesticide-soaked soil more appealing.



For instance, could the fungicides in the pesticide mix be killing off harmful soil fungi and nematodes, making the soil safer for the queens? 



Or are these queens, like connoisseurs of fine wine, developing a taste for pesticide-infested soil due to prior exposure?



Nothing can be said with absolute certainty, and further research is urgently needed. These new findings could cause a significant shift in how pesticides are used and managed in our agricultural fields.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effective-solutions-for-bumblebee-conservation">Effective solutions for bumblebee conservation </h2>



This unexpected behavior of bumblebee queens highlights the need for innovative approaches in bumblebee conservation efforts. 



Conservationists and researchers must now explore mitigation strategies that can offset the detrimental impacts of pesticide preference. 



One potential avenue might include creating designated pesticide-free habitats that appeal to the nesting instincts of the queens, thereby providing safer environments for their hibernation. 



Additionally, public education campaigns could help raise awareness about the importance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/endangered-rusty-patched-bumblebee-faces-extinction-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> and the potential risks they face due to current agricultural practices. 



Collaboration between scientists, farmers, and policymakers will be critical in crafting effective solutions, ensuring that bumblebees continue to thrive and contribute to the biodiversity and productivity of natural ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-safer-soil-for-bumblebees">Safer soil for bumblebees</h2>



Let's face it. Pesticides have been a major culprit contributing to the decline of insects worldwide. They not only cause fatalities but can impair the movement of bees and their ability to feed on nectar and pollen. This spells bad news for our food system.



The big question now is whether the bumblebee queens would be drawn towards contaminated soil in larger spaces as they were in the controlled experiments. Further studies are crucial to determine whether these findings hold true for other bee species.



One thing is clear though - the current assessments of pesticide risks do not consider soil as a significant route of exposure for bees.



"As we move forward, it's crucial to investigate how agricultural practices - like the types of pesticides used, the methods of application and the management of vegetation - impact the accumulation of pesticide residues in soils where queens are likely to hibernate," said Dr. Rondeau.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969724066907?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science of The Total Environment</a>.



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Bumblebee queens have an odd preference for contaminated soil

A recent revelation spells trouble for bumblebees, or more specifically,...

October 20th is almost here, and that's no ordinary day. International Sloth Day is headed our way, a day to cast a slow but steady spotlight on one of nature's most intriguing animals, the sloth. 



Known for their chilled-out vibes and a love for trees, sloths aren't just the animal world's laid back lounge-lizards. They also play a crucial role in the ecosystems of Central and South America.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marking-international-sloth-day">Marking International Sloth Day</h2>



It was the year 2010 when the <a href="https://aiunau.org/en/home-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AIUNAU Foundation</a>, a non-profit based in Colombia that champions wildlife conservation, introduced us all to International Sloth Day. But why <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sloths-are-struggling-to-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sloths</a>, and why a whole day just for them?



The idea behind dedicating a day to the sloth is to amp up awareness about these creatures, their habitats, and their role in the natural world. It's a nudge to learn more about sloths, helping conservation efforts, and marvel at their complex existence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-getting-to-know-sloths">Getting to know sloths</h2>



Dive into the rainforests of Central and South America and you'll probably spot one of the six species of sloths. They're divided into two categories: three-toed sloths and two-toed sloths. 



But the difference isn't just about the digits on their front limbs. Size and behaviors also set the two-toed sloths (who are peppy and larger) apart from their three-toed relatives.



Sloths are designed to thrive in the treetops. Their long, coarse fur grows differently from most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-report-disturbing-details-about-the-state-of-earths-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mammals</a>, acting like a nature-made brolly when it pours. 



And there's more to their unique fur. It's a cozy home to organisms like algae, fungi, beetles, moths, and more.&nbsp;International Sloth Day&nbsp;brings attention to how these tenants help sloths blend into their green canopies and ward off predators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-medical-marvels-of-sloths">Medical marvels of sloths</h2>



Sloths produce compounds with anti-cancer and antibiotic properties. The relationship between sloths and the organisms in their fur could potentially offer useful insights for new medicines.



In Panama, for example, chemicals isolated from fungi in the fur of three-toed sloths were found to be active against breast cancer and parasites that cause malaria and Chagas disease.



Plus, the complex digestive system of sloths may improve our understanding of digestive disorders. The primarily leaf-eating sloths have a multi-compartment stomach, much like cows. International Sloth Day&nbsp;is dedicated to raising awareness about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sloths-may-hold-a-secret-weapon-against-antibiotic-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">these unique traits</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threats-faced-by-sloths">Threats faced by sloths</h2>



Sloths spend most of their lives upside down, hanging around on trees, all thanks to their specialized tendons that lock their claws onto branches. They might not break any land speed records, but put them in water, and these sloths can swim three times faster than they can move on land.



But just like everyone else, life for sloths isn't always a picnic. The main threat they face is habitat destruction. Deforestation in Central and South America is eating away the natural habitats of sloths, pushing some species to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-wildlife-overlap-is-rapidly-rising-across-the-globe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">edge of extinction</a>. 



Add to that the roads cutting through rainforests and urban expansion, and sloths often face dangerous, even fatal, accidents. But it's not all doom and gloom, as organizations like the AIUNAU Foundation work around the clock to reduce these risks and raise awareness on&nbsp;International Sloth Day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-survival-strategies-of-sloths">Unique survival strategies of sloths</h2>



Sloths, often perceived as the epitome of lethargy, embody a unique energy conservation strategy adapted to their niche environments.



Their slow movements serve as an evolutionary advantage, enabling them to avoid detection by predators while residing predominantly in high treetops. This arboreal lifestyle is complemented by their low metabolic rate, which aligns with their nutritionally sparse diet of leaves. 



By digesting food slowly, spanning over several days, sloths maximize nutrient absorption. Furthermore, their infrequent descent to the forest floor, approximately once a week for defecation, minimizes exposure to threats. 



Understanding these behaviors provides deeper insight into their survival tactics, emphasizing the importance of preserving their natural habitats. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pitching-in-for-international-sloth-day">Pitching in for International Sloth Day</h2>



Conservation efforts for sloths need to pick up the pace. With rainforests shrinking, it’s up to us to help sloths thrive in their homes. 



Joining in on the celebration of International Sloth Day is easy. Educate yourself and others about these gentle creatures.



Support conservation efforts with your time or donations. Even a simple share on social media can help raise awareness about sloth conservation.



On October 20th, let’s not just admire these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-animal-day-2024-building-a-legacy-of-compassion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unique animals</a> - let's embrace their slower pace of life and appreciate the art of doing nothing.



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International Sloth Day 2024: Embracing a slower pace of life

October 20th is almost here, and that's no ordinary day....

La Niña is stirring as fall bustles with activity, and before we realize it, winter will be upon us. This season could be starkly different from last year's El Niño dominated winter, with the stage set for a more frigid season, courtesy of a weak La Niña.



This anticipated La Niña is set to leave its mark on temperatures, precipitation, and consequently, snowfall patterns across the United States. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-la-nina">What is La Niña?</h2>



It is a natural climate pattern characterized by cooler than average ocean temperatures in the equatorial Pacific. It plays a substantial role in weather changes, with the effects being exceptionally pronounced during the Northern Hemisphere's winter months.



Looking back, the last winter was the warmest on record for the Lower 48 thanks to the events counterpart - El Niño.



This resultant prolonged warmth played a part in minimizing heavy snow events in the Northeast and Midwest, leading to a winter 'snow drought'.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arrival-of-la-nina">Arrival of La Niña</h2>



La Niña isn't a certainty yet, but the odds are stacking in her favor. The Climate Prediction Center sees a 60% chance of La Niña making her presence known come November. Should she arrive, she's expected to overstay her welcome right through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-winters-are-getting-colder-while-world-is-getting-warmer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">winter</a> and likely into the early spring of next year.



However, the strength of La Niña, when it does form, matters significantly. According to Emily Becker, an atmospheric scientist at the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Miami</a>, a stronger La Niña can cause a more "consistent" impact on weather.



Although other weather and climate phenomena might disrupt a weaker event, La Niña, whether <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/el-nino-event-may-push-earth-towards-its-hottest-year-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">El Niño</a> or Niña, typically exerts an outsized effect on winter weather in the US.



The current forecasts suggest a weaker La Niña, but the situation remains fluid. Regardless, the Climate Prediction Center's recent forecast shows the classic signs of typical La Niña winters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-embracing-the-winter-chill">Embracing the winter chill</h2>



The winter we are about to receive could be anything but mundane. As Jon Gottschalck, chief of the center’s operational prediction branch, predicts, it could be one filled with frequent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-activity-is-rapidly-changing-weather-in-north-america/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather changes</a> rather than prolonged periods of consistent weather.



Two key factors guide the behavior of La Niña winters - temperature and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-precipitation-in-the-northeast-linked-to-human-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">precipitation</a> trends. The jet stream often shifts north during a La Niña winter, moving stormy weather from the South to the northern parts of the US.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weather-forecasts-across-the-u-s">Weather forecasts across the U.S.</h2>



The Climate Prediction Center's forecasts show a likelihood of the northern U.S. receiving more rainfall this winter, key in battling ongoing aridity and drought, particularly in the Midwest. In contrast to last year's wetter South and drier North, we're in for a significant flip.



Higher than usual precipitation doesn't necessarily mean a heavier snowfall. Temperatures must still be cold enough for snow to fall and remain on the ground. 



A weaker La Niña often allows for increased snow in the Northeast, but stronger La Niñas can lead to more limited snowfall due to warmer temperatures creeping up the East Coast.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-la-nina-s-distinct-footprints">La Niña's distinct footprints</h2>



The upcoming winter is predicted to be warmer across the southern U.S. and much of the East. While some may rejoice, snow lovers in the Northeast might not find this forecast favorable.



Drier and warmer conditions across the South suggests that the existing drought conditions could worsen throughout the season.



Midwesterners, the Plains, and the Rockies might experience standard winter temperatures. Meanwhile, the Pacific Northwest and parts of the Dakotas might have to embrace cooler climes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-upcoming-winter-of-extremes">Upcoming winter of extremes</h2>



The wetter and cooler condition combination could potentially translate into more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-snow-complexity-can-improve-winter-safety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snow</a> for the Pacific Northwest. This would be good news for winter tourism and to ensure an adequate water supply for the warmer months.



Southern California, however, could expect a drier, warmer season - quite typical for a La Niña winter. The area would certainly benefit from a soaking rain period to put an end to wildfire season.



With a La Niña winter in the offing, we can expect a winter seasoned with a fair share of weather extremes, warns Michael Morgan, NOAA’s assistant secretary of commerce for observation and prediction. As we countdown to winter, keep an eye on the evolving forecasts to know what to expect.



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Winter of extremes: How will La Niña affect weather in the U.S.?

La Niña is stirring as fall bustles with activity, and...

It is no longer news that our environment - specifically the air we breathe - is under tremendous assault from pollution. Recent research has now linked increased levels of air pollution to a rise in the number of patients being treated in hospital emergency departments.



Even more interestingly, this correlation is noticeable even when the levels of pollution stay within the guidelines set by the World Health Organization. This paints a concerning picture about the impact of pollution on public health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-pollution-and-hospital-visits">Air pollution and hospital visits</h2>



The findings of the investigation, recently presented at the European Emergency Medicine Congress, are shedding new light on the growing concern of air pollution.



The study reveals significant connections between air pollution and rising cases of trauma, respiratory difficulty, and skin conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-pollution-s-impact-on-healthcare">Air pollution's impact on healthcare</h2>



The research was carried out by a team of scientists based at the <a href="https://www.unifi.it/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Florence</a> and Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy, and was led by Dr Andrea Rossetto, an emergency medicine resident and PhD student at <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a>.



The team's focus was to establish the impact of air pollution variation on the overall workload in emergency departments of hospitals.



"We know that air pollution is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-exposure-in-the-womb-harms-offspring-reproductive-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">damaging for health</a>, especially in terms of breathing and lung diseases, and this is likely to have an impact on our health services," said Dr. Rossetto.



"However, there is limited evidence on the impact of fluctuations in air pollution on the overall workload in the emergency department.”



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



The team, with the aid of Dr. Alessio Gnerucci from the Department of Physics and Astronomy, collected patient data from those admitted to the emergency department at Careggi University Hospital between 2019 and 2022.



Overall, the data represented 307,279 patient visits. This information was then juxtaposed against data detailing daily levels of particulate matter in air pollution - specifically PM2.5 and PM10 - in the air near patients' homes, 30 days prior to their hospital visit.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-pollution-and-health-emergencies">Air pollution and health emergencies </h2>



The results showed a 10-15% rise in daily patient visits to the ER after an increase in PM2.5 and PM10 levels.



Specifically, cases of trauma, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-term-exposure-to-air-pollution-linked-to-severe-covid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">respiratory complications</a> and skin conditions spiked following periods of higher air pollution. 



Trauma related to pollution tended to affect a younger demographic, while older patients (over 65) experienced more respiratory issues connected to poor air quality.



The team discovered a robust correlation between elevated particulate matter levels and ER visits. Traffic accidents were a leading cause for trauma patients, and traffic is a major contributor to urban air pollution. 



Thus, it is plausible that heavy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traffic-related-air-pollution-might-increase-alzheimers-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">traffic</a> is indirectly and directly responsible for the surge in trauma and respiratory cases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-is-needed">Further research is needed</h2>



While the findings offer insightful correlations, the researchers acknowledge that more studies are needed to confirm if this relationship between air pollution and ER visits exists in other hospitals, including impacts on children who are typically more susceptible to the effects of pollution.



The research team also plans to explore the influence of other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-air-pollutants-contribute-to-cardiovascular-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollutants</a> and weather patterns on emergency department visits, not just in terms of overall workload but also particular diseases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hospital-burdens-of-air-pollution">Hospital burdens of air pollution</h2>



“This study adds to existing evidence that air pollution, even at concentrations within WHO guidelines, is harmful to our health and our health services," said Dr. Barbra Backus, an emergency physician in The Netherlands, who was not involved with the research.



"Understanding this link could allow hospitals to prepare for surges in patient numbers and take action to reduce overcrowding in the emergency department."



To protect public health and reduce hospital burdens, steps must be taken to minimize emission levels and reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/short-term-exposure-to-air-pollution-increases-stroke-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exposure to air pollution</a>.



This growing body of evidence hughlights the urgent need for policymakers to implement stricter air quality regulations and promote sustainable urban planning. 



By addressing the root causes of air pollution, such as vehicle emissions and industrial discharges, communities can work towards creating healthier environments. 



Collaborative efforts between government agencies, healthcare providers, and environmental scientists are crucial in developing comprehensive strategies to combat the adverse effects of air pollution on human health.



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Air pollution linked to a surge in hospital emergency visits

It is no longer news that our environment - specifically...

For years, the coastline of Maine has been home to an abundance of American lobsters, providing a powerhouse of economic activity through the fishing industry. 



Our understanding of these crustaceans' preferred habitats, namely the boulder shelter regions, has shaped conservation measures for this $740 million industry. However, climate change is now influencing these habitats and lobster behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lobster-habitat-and-climate-change">Lobster habitat and climate change</h2>



Researchers at the University of Maine (UMaine) have discovered some intriguing changes. Between 1995 and 2021, the scientists observed a 60% decline in the lobster population in boulder habitats.



But, where did they go? Well, those naturally shy lobsters have made a surprising shift to sediment or featureless ledge habitats, which have increased in lobster <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-solve-lobster-farming-secrets-after-120-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">occupancy</a> by a whopping 633% and 280% respectively.



These areas have minimal geological features to use as shelters, yet more lobsters are calling them home.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitat-choices-of-lobsters">Habitat choices of lobsters</h2>



Overall, the l<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hybrid-lobster-species-discovered-with-new-genetic-test/">obster</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hybrid-lobster-species-discovered-with-new-genetic-test/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> population</a> density across all habitats took a nosedive as it became more spread out. It's like they've taken social distancing to heart. 



At the same time, the age group seems to have shifted as well, with more senior lobsters in the mix. Let's not forget our main culprit here – increasing water temperatures.



From 1995-2021, these habitats saw a nearly 3-degree Celsius (5.4-degree Fahrenheit) rise. The lobsters are no fans of the heat and it looks like this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-is-likely-the-hottest-year-in-recorded-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> is playing a part in their habitat choices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lobsters-hosting-changes">Lobsters hosting changes</h2>



The changing environment has also seen kelp playgrounds diminish while algal turfs, those small green mats containing various algae species, have multiplied. 



This greener landscape may be influenced by the rising temperatures, but the impact this has on our lobsters remains a fascinating enigma.



“These differences in the way lobsters use their habitats provide context for the lobster stock assessment that helps to determine the health of the entire lobster population,” said study lead author Robert Jarrett, a PhD student in marine biology.



“Some of the annual lobster surveys used in the assessment, like those from the Maine Department of Marine Resources, are restricted in the types of habitats that they can sample, so these findings about habitat help fill in some information gaps and show that over time the lobsters may be shifting between which surveys catch them better.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-research">Focus of the research</h2>



The team's investigation involved counting and measuring lobsters and reviewing historical data dating back to the 90s.



While lobster population density has waned, adult lobsters have seemingly hit the gym, with greater mean sizes observed in 2021 compared to 1996. These larger lobsters could be due to a decrease in their juvenile kin residing in these habitats. 



Despite this change in size, the lobsters are still on the smaller side, with 93% of them being under 83 millimeters - the legal minimum to be caught and sold.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-venturing-into-more-open-habitats">Venturing into more open habitats </h2>



In a shocking fashion switch, lobsters are ditching their usual rocky shelters for more open areas within their habitats, and even beds of algae. 



In fact, the number of lobsters found under rocky shelters plummeted by 34% from 2000-2019, while those preferring the open space lifestyle rose by 168%. The lobsters hiding under algae blankets have also increased by 160%.



These changes could very well be due to fewer baby lobsters making it to the seafloor or less competition between individual lobsters. 



The absence of predators might also have encouraged our lobsters to say goodbye to their comfortable boulder homes and venture into more open habitats, choosing algae as their new hideouts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-habitats-of-lobsters">Changing habitats of lobsters</h2>



This fascinating shift under the sea is just another reminder of the impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/report-earth-is-headed-for-an-irreversible-climate-disaster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental changes</a> on the marine ecosystem. 



Steneck expressed his awe at the continuous surprises from the world of lobsters, despite them being one of the best-studied commercially important marine species.



At UMaine, students and faculty are dedicated to preserving and propelling the state's blue economy. The findings, like this study on lobsters, provide invaluable insights into the ecological and sociological alterations affecting coastal communities and businesses.



Armed with this knowledge, the researchers are exploring opportunities for new sectors, markets, and resources to mitigate the impacts of climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-lobsters-from-climate-change">Saving lobsters from climate change</h2>



UMaine's Marine Aligned Research, Innovation, and nationally-recognized Education (MARINE) Initiative is at the forefront of this effort, fostering collaboration among researchers, industry, government, and communities.



The combined effort is working to enhance the socioeconomic well-being of people in Maine and beyond.



This study highlights how <a href="https://umaine.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UMaine</a> is bolstering Maine's blue economy. As the Gulf of Maine changes, the sustainable management of North America's largest fishery requires us to understand how lobsters are adapting to their habitats.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.int-res.com/abstracts/meps/v746/p87-98/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Ecology Progress Series</a>.



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Lobsters are ditching their old habitats for open water

For years, the coastline of Maine has been home to...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



-----



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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







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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes Earth’s interconnected systems, and how this network is affected by rising temperatures.&nbsp;



During 2020, average global temperatures matched the hottest year on record. The hurricane season was also record-breaking, with many of the storms intensifying at extraordinary speeds. Hot water in the ocean is fuel for hurricanes. The satellite data shows that it's all one interconnected system showing how Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected.



According to NASA, dust swept up from Northern Africa plays a major role in the formation of hurricanes, and is also a key source of fertilization in the Amazon rainforest. As a result of<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-wasting-disease-is-fueled-by-climate-change/"> climate</a> change, dust plumes are expected to decline, which will have an effect on vegetation far away.&nbsp;



Images from Earth-observing satellites show how the world’s plant life is affected by natural disasters, fires, and deforestation. Satellites also reveal how widespread changes in vegetation impact waterways,&nbsp; the climate, air quality. Satellites communicate by using radio waves to send signals to the antennas on the Earth. "Earth From Space" is a groundbreaking two-hour special that reveals a spectacular new space-based vision of our planet. 



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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