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...

Do you hear the call of the wild? That's Mother Nature and millions of animal advocates asking you to mark your calendars - World Animal Day is celebrated annually on October 4th. 



And it's not just for pet lovers or zoologists. It's a day for all of us to honor, respect, and protect our planet's incredible biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-standing-for-animal-rights-and-welfare">Standing for animal rights and welfare</h2>



World Animal Day, also known as World Animal Welfare Day or World Animal Protection Day, is a significant annual event on the 4th of October. It's been celebrated since 1925, garnering an ever-growing international community dedicated to putting an end to the pointless suffering of all animals.



This day is focused on acknowledging that animals, whether they're your beloved pooch or a buffalo roaming the plains, are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-day-using-technology-to-protect-our-natural-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sentient beings</a> with thoughts, feelings, and unique personalities. Their treatment and welfare practices must reflect this recognition.



World Animal Day's international reach enables us to unite voices worldwide, standing for animal rights and welfare. It paves the way for everyone, businesses and individuals alike, to celebrate this day in various ways.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-history-of-world-animal-day">History of World Animal Day</h2>



World Animal Day was first celebrated on March 24th, 1925 in Germany. 



A man named Heinrich Zimmermann, a cynologist, charted its course. Zimmermann, whose love for animals led him to organize the first celebration at the Sports Palace in Berlin, sparked a movement that continues to shape our approach to animal welfare today.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-celebrate-world-animal-day">Why celebrate World Animal Day?</h2>



World Animal Day serves a dual purpose: it educates the public about the importance of animal welfare and unifies global efforts to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thousands-of-animal-species-will-soon-vanish-from-cities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">improve animal lives</a>.



Now, here's where you come in. How will you make this day count?



It's an all hands on deck situation. Individuals, businesses, everyone can lend their voice to the cause. How about a fundraising event for charities safeguarding animal rights? 



A goods donation drive or education sessions? There are countless ways to jump in and get involved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-observe-world-animal-day">How to observe World Animal Day</h2>



There are many ways to show your support for animal rights during World Animal Day. From awareness &amp; educational events like conferences &amp; workshops to fundraising events like concerts, sponsored walks, bake sales, or gala balls, the options are endless.



World Animal Day's impact reverberates across societies and governments, prompting collective introspection about our responsibilities towards all earth's creatures. 



Each year, this day generates increased engagements with policymakers to advocate for stronger animal welfare laws, enhances educational outreach, and fosters community collaborations aimed at sharing resources and knowledge for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mass-extinctions-can-be-prevented-by-protecting-key-sites/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">better animal care</a>. 



The celebration acts as a catalyst for initiating critical changes in legislation, guiding societies to more ethical practices, and recognizing the intrinsic value of animals in ecosystems, conservation efforts, and human well-being.



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



While World Animal Day is a significant date on the calendar, the mission to improve animal welfare must persist beyond just one day. 



It is imperative to cultivate a culture of continuous commitment, whereby individuals and groups advocate for systemic changes throughout the year. 



Participation in local and international wildlife protection initiatives, supporting sanctuaries, rescues, and sustainably minded organizations, and influencing policy through informed dialogue, are all vital steps. 



Together, we hold the power to create a lasting legacy of compassion and action that respects the dignity and diversity of animal life globally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-is-world-animal-day-important">Why is World Animal Day important?</h2>



World Animal Day is a beacon of hope for living creatures across the globe. It raises awareness about ecosystem protection - striving to sustain the delicate balance necessary for all lifeforms to thrive. It transcends boundaries, uniting minds and hearts across the globe in a shared mission to improve animal lives.



Over the years, World Animal Day has garnered significant victories for animals. In Egypt, the day’s events led to additional clauses in the Egyptian constitution offering rights to animals. Similarly, in Sudan, parliament introduced new legislation designed to protect animals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-get-involved">How to get involved</h2>



So, are you ready to chip in and make this world a better place for our furry, feathery, or scaly friends? Here are some ways you can get involved:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Contribute to organizations focused on animal protection, wildlife conservation, or pet rescue. For example, PETA’s <a href="https://headlines.peta.org/peta-global-compassion-fund/?en_txn7=redirect::closed-id38547&amp;supporter.appealCode=IXXXWBXXGCF#donate" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Compassion Fund</a> helps animals around the world. You could also donate food, toys, or volunteer at your local animal shelter.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Create habitats for local wildlife in your garden by planting native trees or flowers. Native plants provide food and shelter for birds, insects, and snail mammals. </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Support wildlife friendly businesses that prioritize sustainable practices and avoid those that harm wildlife or their habitats.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Use social media to share information about animal welfare issues, endangered species, or the importance of responsible pet ownership.</li>
</ul>



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World Animal Day 2024: Building a legacy of compassion

Do you hear the call of the wild? That's Mother...

Flask,In,Scientist,Hand,With,Dropping,Liquid,To,Test,Tube

Have you ever wondered what it takes to generate water? Scientists have been at it for years. But now, it seems, we are really on to something.



For the first time ever, scientists have observed the birth of water right from its atomic constituents - hydrogen and oxygen -- joining hands to form tiny bubbles of water.



This all happened in a <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern University</a> lab where a team of scientists was trying to unravel the secret of how a metallic element, palladium, aids the gases in reacting to form water. 



The exciting part? They noticed all this at a nanoscale.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-optimal-conditions-for-water-generation">Optimal conditions for water generation</h2>



What's even more astonishing is that this reaction doesn't require harsh conditions, making it a potentially useful tool to generate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-discovery-water-molecules-will-force-chemistry-textbooks-to-be-rewritten/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> quickly in dry areas, even including other planets.



The study is set to be published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. So, what's all the excitement about?



Study senior author Vinayak Dravid is a professor at Northwestern’s <a href="https://www.mccormick.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McCormick School of Engineering</a> and founding director of NUANCE Center.



"By directly visualizing nanoscale water generation, we were able to identify the optimal conditions for rapid water generation under ambient conditions," explained Dravid.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-applications-of-rapid-water-generation">Applications of rapid water generation </h2>



According to Dravid, the findings have significant implications for practical applications, enabling rapid water generation in deep space environments using gases and metal catalysts, without requiring extreme reaction conditions.



“Think of Matt Damon’s character, Mark Watney, in the movie ‘The Martian.’ He burned rocket fuel to extract hydrogen and then added oxygen from his oxygenator," said Dravid. 



"Our process is analogous, except we bypass the need for fire and other extreme conditions. We simply mixed palladium and gases together.”



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



In the early 1900s, scientists knew that palladium could help generate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/collecting-water-from-the-air-to-tackle-a-global-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> quickly. However, the exact process remained a mystery, noted study first author Yukun Liu, a PhD candidate in Dravid’s laboratory.



“It’s a known phenomenon, but it was never fully understood,” said&nbsp;Liu. “Because you really need to be able to&nbsp;combine the direct visualization of water generation and the structure analysis&nbsp;at the atomic scale in order to figure out what’s happening with the reaction and how to optimize it.”



And that was impossible until nine months ago when Dravid’s team introduced a method to analyze gas molecules in real time. They essentially created a super-thin glassy membrane with a honeycomb design to hold gas molecules so they could be viewed within high-vacuum transmission electron microscopes.



The result was remarkable. Researchers could now look at samples in atmospheric pressure gas at a resolution of just 0.102 nanometers - a significant leap from the 0.236-nanometer resolution offered by other leading tools.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breakthrough-the-smallest-bubble">Breakthrough: The smallest bubble!</h2>



Using their new technique, the team observed the reaction on palladium. As hydrogen atoms entered the palladium, expanding its square lattice, they saw <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planets-are-hiding-much-more-water-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tiny water bubbles</a> forming at the metal's surface.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="Iem4jt7h9m-3889533-12187" type="single"]</div>



"We think it might be the smallest bubble ever formed that has been viewed directly. It's not what we were expecting. Luckily, we were recording it, so we could prove to other people that we weren't crazy," said Liu.



"We were skeptical. We needed to investigate it further to prove that it was actually water that formed," another researcher, Kunmo Koo, points out.



The researchers used electron energy loss spectroscopy to analyze these bubbles. By examining the energy loss of scattered electrons, they detected oxygen-bonding characteristics unique to water. 



To confirm that the bubbles were indeed water, they were heated to evaluate the boiling point.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fastest-way-to-generate-water">Fastest way to generate water</h2>



After the experts confirmed that the palladium reaction was generating water, the next challenge was to optimize the process. They tried different combinations of hydrogen and oxygen to determine the quickest rate of water generation.



The team discovered that adding hydrogen first, followed by oxygen, led to the fastest reaction rate. After filling the palladium with hydrogen, they then introduced oxygen gas - resulting in a swift reaction.



"When we stored hydrogen in the palladium first, and then added oxygen, the reaction started. Hydrogen comes out of the palladium to react with the oxygen, and the palladium shrinks and returns to its initial state," explained Liu.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-system-for-space-exploration">Sustainable system for space exploration</h2>



The Northwestern team envisions a future where this process could be put to good use. The idea is to prepare hydrogen-filled palladium before traveling into space and then add oxygen to generate water for drinking or watering plants.



Although the study focused on studying bubble generation at nanoscale, larger sheets of palladium would generate much <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-water-day-a-focus-on-prosperity-and-peace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">larger quantities of water</a>.



"Palladium might seem expensive, but it's recyclable," said Liu. "Our process doesn't consume it. The only thing consumed is gas, and hydrogen is the most abundant gas in the universe. After the reaction, we can reuse the palladium platform over and over."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2408277121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



Video Credit: Vinayak Dravid/Northwestern University



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Water captured on video forming out of thin air for the first time

Have you ever wondered what it takes to generate water?...

Picture this: astronauts landing on Mars or the Moon, growing their own homes using mycelium bricks made from fungi. Straight out of a science fiction novel, right? Wrong. 



This concept is currently being investigated by NASA, and it might not be as far-fetched as it initially seems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nasa-s-fungi-frontier">NASA's fungi frontier</h2>



Steering this unique research is Lynn Rothschild, a senior scientist at NASA's <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/ames/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ames Research Center</a>, found in the heart of California's Silicon Valley. 



Rothschild and her team have been pushing the envelope on space habitat construction with their project, lovingly dubbed "<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/centers-and-facilities/ames/could-future-homes-on-the-moon-and-mars-be-made-of-fungi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mycotecture Off Planet</a>." 



The project has recently been given a financial fillip through the NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/stmd-the-nasa-innovative-advanced-concepts-niac/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIAC</a>) program.



As Walt Engelund, associate administrator for Programs in the NASA's <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/space-technology-mission-directorate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Space Technology Mission Directorate</a>, puts it, "We are committed to advancing technologies to transport our astronauts, house our explorers, and facilitate valuable research." 



This commitment is reflected in the $2 million Phase III NIAC award that Rothschild's team has garnered, which will support their research for the next couple of years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-not-building-moon-homes">Growing, not building, Moon homes</h2>



Interested in how this concept works? It's quite simple really. Instead of lugging hefty building materials from Earth, astronauts would bring along lightweight structures imbued with dormant fungi. 



Upon reaching their final destination, a touch of water is all it takes to wake up the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fungi-engage-in-more-conversations-after-rainfall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fungi</a> and stimulate it to grow, forming a robust habitat around the framework. 



This ingenious method could potentially save a ton of resources and lighten the load for space missions.



The mycelia, the thread-like structures that form the bulk of fungi, are the MVPs here. They can grow into robust, intricate shapes that are just <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mycocrete-new-material-made-of-fungi-hopes-to-replace-concrete-in-construction-projects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">perfect for constructing habitats</a>. 



They can also be safely contained to avoid any contamination of the alien environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fungi-will-keep-the-moon-green">Fungi will keep the Moon "green"</h2>



NASA Administrator Bill Nelson sums it up, "As NASA prepares to explore farther into the cosmos than ever before, it will require new science and technology that doesn't yet exist." 



The Mycotecture Off Planet project imbibes this forward-thinking approach. How do you live sustainably off-Earth? Grow your habitats!



But it's not just about building homes; it's about developing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mushroom-leather-mycelium-latest-eco-friendly-fashion-trend/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multi-purpose materials</a> that can perform various functions in space. 



For example, mycelia could be utilized for water filtration and even for extracting minerals from waste water, vital for supporting astronauts' life.



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



So, where are we now? The team has already made massive leaps. 



Through previous NIAC funding, they've demonstrated the feasibility of the concept, creating <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/a-beginners-guide-to-mycology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fungal-based biocomposites</a>, testing prototypes, and even contemplating enhancements like radiation protection.



NASA's commitment to innovative thinking shines through in this project. 



"NASA's space technology team and the NIAC program unlock visionary ideas -- ideas that make the impossible, possible," Bill Nelson says.



With the recently secured funding, Rothschild and her team can focus on improving the material properties of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-distribute-enormous-amounts-of-co2-to-mycorrhizal-fungi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fungal habitats</a> and move onto testing in low Earth orbit, a vital step before potential application in Moon or Mars missions.



John Nelson, NIAC Program Executive, highlights the value of these projects, "Mycotecture Off Planet exemplifies how advanced concepts can change how we envision future exploration missions." 



As NASA preps for Artemis, aiming for the moon and beyond to Mars, projects like these could have an instrumental role.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fungi-homes-aren-t-just-for-astronauts">Fungi homes aren't just for astronauts</h2>



Why should you care about growing fungi in space? Beyond<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mushroom-is-given-a-robot-body-and-runs-wild-in-fascinating-video/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> the "wow" factor</a>, this research can impact us right here on Earth. 



With our eyes set on sustainable building materials, the technology being developed for space could trigger eco-friendly practices at home.



Moreover, the success of such projects fuels inspiration and ignites scientific interest in the next generation. It's about pushing boundaries, reimagining possibilities, and finding solutions that profit all.



Could mycelia-based construction be our future, in space and on Earth? These are intriguing times for space exploration, and what once seemed outrageous is now within reach.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fungi-and-the-future-of-growing-homes-0">Fungi and the future of growing homes</h2>



To sum it all up, NASA's investment in this unprecedented research into the use of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/understanding-fungi-characteristics-and-function/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fungi and mycelium</a> to build bricks for space homes underscores the agency's commitment to developing technologies that could make long-term space living a reality. 



By "growing the box," scientists like Lynn Rothschild are morphing visionary ideas into tangible solutions.



So the next time you spot a mushroom popping up in your backyard, think about its distant cousin possibly helping humans live on the Moon or Mars.



 The fusion of biology and technology is unlocking doors we never thought possible, and the journey is only just beginning.



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NASA will use mushrooms to ‘grow homes’ on Mars and the Moon

Picture this: astronauts landing on Mars or the Moon, growing...

Fans of Clementine, the cat whose rare eye color recently took TikTok by storm, may be intrigued to learn the results of a new study.&nbsp;



The striking eye colors found in many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/european-wildcats-avoided-breeding-with-domestic-cats-for-2000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wild cats</a>, such as the piercing gold of cheetahs, the vivid blue of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snow-leopards-the-carnivores-that-eat-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snow leopards</a>, and the glowing green of leopards, can all be traced back to one single ancestor. 



This feline progenitor, similar to an ocelot, roamed the Earth over 30 million years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-variety-of-cat-eye-colors">Variety of cat eye colors</h2>



<a href="https://www.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard University</a> researchers suggest that this ancient cat population likely had both brown- and gray-eyed individuals, the latter of which set the stage for the wide variety of iris colors seen in cat species today.



Study lead author Julius Tabin is a student at the Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences in Harvard's Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology.



“When I started this study I asked, ‘What do we know about eye color?’ And the truth is, very little, as there are basically almost no phylogenetic evolutionary studies on eye color,” said Tabin.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-eye-color-diversity-in-cats">Studying eye color diversity in cats</h2>



Previous research has mostly focused on eye color distribution within a species or the genes involved in determining eye color in humans and domesticated animals. 



However, studying eye color across <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-camera-system-takes-photos-in-the-same-colors-that-different-animals-see/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wild animal populations</a> is rare due to the challenges of preservation and a general lack of diversity - most animals have brown eyes.



While eye color in humans may be shaped by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sexual-selection-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sexual selection</a>, and in domestic animals by artificial selection, Tabin wanted to explore the reasons behind the eye color diversity in wild cats.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creative-approach-to-mapping-eye-color">Creative approach to mapping eye color</h2>



Lacking fossil evidence, Tabin and co-author Katherine Chiasson, a Ph.D. candidate at Johns Hopkins University, took a creative approach. 



They analyzed digital images from online databases to categorize and study the eye colors of 52 species of wild cats.



Tabin and Chiasson used an algorithm to map these colors onto a phylogenetic tree of the Felidae family. “We found a lot of variability of color between species, but shockingly, we also found a lot of intraspecific variability,” said Tabin.&nbsp;



“Most species have a singular eye color with no variation. So, it's really surprising that once you get into the cats - lions, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/could-captive-tigers-help-restore-wild-populations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tigers</a>, panthers, etc. -- we see all these different eye colors. There are actually very few Felidae species that have only a singular eye color in their population.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eye-color-of-early-cats">Eye color of early cats</h2>



With their findings mapped onto the family tree, the researchers set out to reconstruct the ancestral eye color of early cat species.&nbsp;



They discovered that the pre-felid lineages, including the ancestor of modern cats and their closest relatives (linsangs), had only brown eyes. 



However, after the linsangs diverged, felines with gray eyes emerged alongside those with brown eyes.



“It's likely this happened due to a genetic mutation that drastically decreased the pigment in the eye,” Tabin explained.&nbsp;



Melanin, the pigment responsible for color, can be either eumelanin (which is brown) or pheomelanin (which is yellow). 



A decrease in eumelanin could lead to eyes that are neither fully brown nor gray but a mixture of both, which the researchers found in their analysis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-significance-of-gray-eyes">Evolutionary significance of gray eyes</h2>



The appearance of gray-eyed cats, according to the study, paved the way for the evolution of more colors, including greens, yellows, and blues. 



These gray eyes acted as a transition between the original brown eyes and the development of new shades.



“Blue eyes require carefully balanced low levels of pigment and are likely recessive in felids. A wild population would probably not be able to maintain blue eyes in a population with only one blue-eyed individual among a sea of brown eyes,” Tabin said.&nbsp;



“It's probable that you would need something lighter than brown, but not as light as blue, to be the mediator. And that's what you see: In every single cat species with blue eyes, they also have gray eyes.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-many-questions-remain">Many questions remain</h2>



The researchers also found that brown and yellow eyes rarely coexist within the same species. Additionally, they observed a surprising correlation between yellow eyes and round pupils, as well as a negative correlation between brown eyes and round pupils.



Despite these intriguing correlations, the researchers did not find any significant connections between eye color and factors such as activity patterns, habitat, or geographical region. 



This leaves the question of why eye color evolved to be so varied in wild cats an open field for future study.



Not only did the team reconstruct general eye color types for each evolutionary ancestor, but they were also able to predict the exact color of these ancient felines’ eyes.&nbsp;



“Being able to reconstruct color quantitatively is one of the paper's greatest strengths, because it means we are the first animals to see the color of these eyes since these felids were alive millions of years ago,” Tabin said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increasing-accessibility-of-science">Increasing accessibility of science</h2>



For Chiasson, part of the excitement of the study came from using publicly available resources for their research.&nbsp;



“The fact that rigorous studies like ours can be done by anyone with an internet connection and some curiosity is indicative of a field-wide revolution that is increasing the accessibility of science around the world.”



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



Looking ahead, Tabin hopes this study will inspire further research into the evolutionary significance of gray eyes and the broader patterns of eye color evolution in natural populations.&nbsp;



“I'm still riding high on the excitement of knowing that the felid ancestor had both brown and gray eyes, because that's something I didn't go in expecting or even thinking about,” he said.



This study opens new avenues for understanding how the mesmerizing eyes of wild cats came to be, adding yet another layer of mystery and fascination to these majestic creatures.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.isci.2024.110903" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iScience</a>.



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How wild cats got their striking eye colors

Fans of Clementine, the cat whose rare eye color recently...

In a new study, experts have used artificial intelligence (AI) to investigate the world of infant learning. The researchers were specifically focused on when babies make the transition from random movements to purposeful exploration.



When infants kick their tiny feet in the air, it might just seem like random flailing. But what if there's a science to it?



Early movements might appear chaotic but believe it or not, these seemingly wild movements reveal patterns of interaction with the world around them. 



Yet, the understanding of how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dads-can-recognize-the-scent-of-their-child/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infants</a> intentionally engage with their surroundings remains somewhat cloudy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-infants-control-their-feet-movements">Infants control their feet movements</h2>



Enter the baby-mobile experiment. What's that? Think of a colorful mobile gently tethered to an infant's foot. 



As our little hero kicks, the mobile moves – a cause-and-effect scenario that's music to the ears of researchers. This experiment, used since the swinging sixties, helps researchers understand babies' control over their movements and their quest to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disappearance-of-bats-linked-to-a-rise-in-infant-deaths/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influence their environment</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-infant-movement-with-ai">Decoding infant movement with AI</h2>



Now, what happens if we add a sprinkle of AI to this mix? At <a href="https://www.fau.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Atlantic University</a>, a team of researchers launched an investigation to see if AI tools could decode the intricate patterns of infant movement. 



They used a handy device called the Vicon 3D motion capture system to analyze infants’ actions, especially their reactions when the mobile moved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-infant-movements-in-different-stages">Infant movements in different stages</h2>



The results? A resounding success! Published in the journal Scientific Reports, the study confirms the potential for AI to help us understand early infant development and interaction.



The machine and deep learning methods accurately classified five-second clips of infant movements as belonging to different stages of the experiment. Among these methods, one emerged as the star: the deep learning model named 2D-CapsNet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-foot-movement-patterns">Foot movement patterns</h2>



The most fascinating part of this discovery was that feet movements scored the highest accuracy rates. What does this mean?



Compared to other parts of the body, the foot movement patterns changed most dramatically across the experiment's stages.



Study co-author Dr. Scott Kelso is a Glenwood and Martha Creech Eminent Scholar in Science at the Center for Complex Systems and Brain Sciences in FAU's Charles E. Schmidt College of Science.



“Feet, as end effectors, are most impacted by interaction with the mobile. In other words, the way infants connect with their environment is most significant at the points of contact,” said Dr. Kelso. In plain English, we can say it all starts "feet first."



The study revealed that the 2D-CapsNet model achieved an impressive 86% accuracy when analyzing foot movements and could even capture detailed relationships between different body parts during movement.



Plus, foot movements proved to be the most accurate - about 20% higher than movements of the hands, knees, or the entire body.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eager-to-engage-with-the-world">Eager to engage with the world</h2>



What else did the study uncover? Well, it seems losing the ability to control the mobile made <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/babies-immune-systems-have-hidden-and-surprising-strength/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">babies</a> more eager to interact with the world. 



“However, some infants showed movement patterns during this disconnected phase that contained hints of their earlier interactions. This suggests that only certain infants understood their relationship with the mobile well enough to hang onto those movement patterns,” explained Dr. Aliza Sloan.



Dr. Nancy Aaron Jones, a professor at FAU's Department of Psychology, emphasized the role of AI in studying infants - who, unlike adults, can't explain their actions.



“AI can help researchers analyze subtle changes in infant movements to gain insights into how they think and learn, even before they can speak,” said Dr. Jones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-infant-behavior">Understanding infant behavior </h2>



In the words of Dr. Scott Kelso, this study not only enhances our understanding of infant behavior but also opens up new possibilities.



Combining theory-based experiments with AI could lead to comprehensive assessments that take specific contexts into account, thus improving our ability to identify risks and treat disorders effectively.



So, the next time you see a baby's tiny toes kicking, remember this: There's a fascinating world of science behind those cute little feet!



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-66312-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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How do infants connect with the world? It all starts with the feet

In a new study, experts have used artificial intelligence (AI)...

Our world is becoming increasingly familiar with massive wildfires, aptly termed "megafires," which ravage landscapes and ecosystems with unprecedented force.



These destructive forces of nature are known for their immediate devastation, but recent studies reveal that their impacts stretch far beyond the scorched earth, ash-filled air, and charred forests they leave in their wake.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-smoke-drains-the-energy-reserves-of-trees">Smoke drains the energy reserves of trees</h2>



One of the less-observable effects of megafires is the long-lasting damage they impose on orchard trees. According to researchers, these effects can significantly disrupt future yields and agricultural stability.



In a game-changing study conducted at the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Davis</a>, scientists discovered that the thick smoke produced by megafires can adversely affect the energy reserves of trees and result in a staggering 50% reduction of their nut harvest.



This startling fact places new importance on understanding the role of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/twenty-years-of-air-quality-improvement-erased-by-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a> and their smoke in both agricultural and natural ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-megafire-smoke-and-orchard-trees">Megafire smoke and orchard trees </h2>



The team at UC Davis had initially embarked on an assessment of how trees, specifically almond, pistachio and walnut varieties, handle heat and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drought-kills-trees-faster-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drought</a> by storing energy in the form of carbohydrates. 



While their research was ongoing between 2018 to 2022, megafires in 2020 swept over 4.2 million acres across California. The fires produced a dense cover of smoke, ash, and particulate matter that lingered for weeks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effects-of-prolonged-smoke">Effects of prolonged smoke</h2>



This unexpected development presented a unique opportunity to observe how the prolonged and pervasive smoky conditions might influence <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oak-trees-use-carbohydrate-reserves-to-survive-insect-invasions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbohydrate levels in trees</a> and ultimately affect their growth and productivity.



Study lead author Jessica Orozco from the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences elaborated on the potential impacts of megafire smoke on orchard trees. 



"<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-to-life-on-earth-photosynthesis-begins-on-the-quantum-level-with-a-single-photon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Photosynthesis</a> produces carbohydrates, which are critical elements for tree survival," Orozco explained. "Trees need carbohydrates not just to grow but to store energy for when they’re under stress or when photosynthesis isn’t happening."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lingering-impacts-of-megafire-smoke">Lingering impacts of megafire smoke</h2>



The thick smoke altered light conditions, occluding some direct sunlight and casting a shadow over the orchards, while simultaneously creating a diffuse light effect that filtered through the smoke.



This diffusion could potentially aid trees in generating more carbohydrates. However, Orozco explained that the smoke was so dense that its increase probably didn't offset the loss of direct sunlight.



The researchers observed that megafire smoke didn't just diminish the carbohydrate reserves in trees but instigated lasting losses, which pressed on even after the fires had been extinguished. 



Notably, the most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-wildfires-have-doubled-in-the-last-20-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">severe wildfire</a> activity often aligns with the period when trees begin to store carbohydrates to get through winter dormancy and fuel spring growth. The impact of smoke was far greater than anticipated. 



"We were expecting to see some impact especially in the months when the smoke was really dense, but we weren’t expecting the smoke to have such a lingering effect and result in a significant drop in yield,” said Orozco.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexity-of-megafire-smoke">Complexity of megafire smoke</h2>



The scientists are not yet sure which components of megafire smoke caused this drastic drop in tree carbohydrate levels, but the complexity of the smoke's composition presents several possibilities.



It's plausible that one or a combination of factors, such as reduced light availability, elevated ozone concentrations, and increased particulate matter levels - all known to interfere with photosynthesis - are to blame for the significant decline in energy storage within the trees.



The findings underline one thing very clearly; the risks posed by wildfires are not just immediate and visible - they have far-reaching and enduring consequences.



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



The impact of megafires extends beyond the immediate damage to crops and soil. As climate change accelerates, scientists warn that the frequency and intensity of megafires will continue to rise, posing a growing threat to agricultural production.



Hotter temperatures and prolonged drought conditions create the perfect environment for these large-scale fires to ignite and spread. 



The increasing prevalence of megafires highlights the urgent need for solutions that can mitigate the long-term impacts of smoke on crops. 



Early-warning systems, innovative farming techniques, and fire-resistant plant varieties could become essential tools in preserving agriculture in fire-prone regions. 



As megafires become more frequent, understanding their effects will be crucial for developing effective adaptation strategies.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41477-024-01819-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Plants</a>.



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Megafire smoke has long-lasting impacts on orchard trees

Our world is becoming increasingly familiar with massive wildfires, aptly...

Over the past 130,000 years, human activities have led to the extinction of hundreds of bird species. This has resulted in substantial reductions in avian functional diversity - the range of different roles and functions that birds perform in the environment.&nbsp;



While humans have been contributing to the global loss of species diversity for thousands of years, the impacts on other dimensions of biodiversity are not yet clear.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extinctions-impact-ecological-functions-nbsp">Extinctions impact ecological functions&nbsp;</h2>



New research led by the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Birmingham</a> highlights the severe implications of the ongoing biodiversity crisis and emphasizes the urgent need to identify the ecological functions being lost through extinction.



From the well-documented demise of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/could-the-dodo-bird-be-brought-back-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dodo</a> to the recent extinction of the Kauaʻi ʻōʻō songbird declared in 2023, scientists have evidence of at least 600 bird species having become extinct due to human activities since the Late Pleistocene, when modern humans began spreading across the world. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-species-extinctions-nbsp">Broader implications of species extinctions&nbsp;</h2>



Utilizing the most comprehensive dataset to date of all known bird extinctions during the Late Pleistocene and Holocene, the study examines the broader implications of these losses on the planet.



“Humans have been driving a global erosion of species richness for millennia, but the consequences of past extinctions for other dimensions of biodiversity - functional and phylogenetic diversity - are poorly understood,” wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



“In this work, we show that, since the Late Pleistocene, the extinction of 610 bird species has caused a disproportionate loss of the global avian functional space along with more than 3 billion years of unique evolutionary history.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chopping-off-a-branch-of-the-tree-of-life">Chopping off a branch of the tree of life</h2>



Study lead author Tom Matthews is an expert in global environmental change at the University of Birmingham.&nbsp;



Matthews noted that while the sheer number of bird species lost is a big part of the extinction crisis, what we also need to focus on is that every <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-than-100-bird-species-have-been-lost-for-over-a-decade/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> has a job or function within the environment and therefore plays a really important role in its ecosystem.



“Some birds control <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urgent-need-to-protect-earths-forests-from-non-native-pests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pests</a> by eating insects, scavenger birds recycle dead matter, others eat fruit and disperse the seeds enabling more plants and trees to grow, and some, like hummingbirds, are very important <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-pollination-can-be-advantageous-for-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a>. When those species die out, the important role that they play (the functional diversity) dies with them,” said Matthews. 



“In addition to functional diversity each species also carries a certain amount of evolutionary history, therefore when that species becomes extinct, it’s basically like chopping off a branch of the tree of life and all of that associated phylogenetic diversity is also lost.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-three-billion-years-of-evolutionary-history-lost">Three billion years of evolutionary history lost</h2>



The researchers found that the extent of human-induced bird extinctions to date has resulted in the loss of approximately three billion years of unique evolutionary history and a 7% reduction in global avian functional diversity.



This is a significantly larger amount than expected based on the number of extinctions alone.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-post-extinction-aftershocks">Post-extinction aftershocks</h2>



Given the wide range of crucial ecological roles performed by birds, the loss of avian functional diversity likely has far-reaching implications.&nbsp;



These post-extinction aftershocks include reduced flower pollination, diminished seed dispersal, the breakdown of natural control over insect populations - including many pests and disease carriers - and increased disease outbreaks due to decreased consumption of carrion.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-species-extinctions-and-plant-diversity">Species extinctions and plant diversity</h2>



Moreover, the reduction in global bird populations documented in the research may affect the ability of many plant species to adapt to current and future climate change.



According to Matthews, these results are a timely reminder that the current extinction crisis is not just about species numbers.&nbsp;



“By identifying declines in avian functional and phylogenetic diversity driven by human actions, our findings highlight the urgent need to understand and predict the impacts of past anthropogenic extinctions on ecosystem function.”



This is needed, said Matthews,&nbsp; in order to prepare for the magnitude of expected future loss from the projected 1,000 bird species that are expected to die out completely over the next two centuries.



“This information is vital for setting effective targets for global conservation strategies, as well as ecosystem restoration and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/success-of-rewilding-efforts-depends-on-the-landscape/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rewilding</a> efforts.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adk7898" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Bird species extinctions are far more impactful than we realized

Over the past 130,000 years, human activities have led to...

Playing a monotonous sound can stimulate the activity of a fungus that promotes plant growth, according to a recent study led by Flinders University. This finding raises the possibility that playing sounds or music could benefit crops and gardens.



The idea that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-that-listen-to-music-grow-faster-and-healthier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music</a> might help plants grow has been debated for years. The popular U.S. TV show MythBusters even conducted an experiment on the topic, playing both death metal and classical music for plants. 



While the plants exposed to music grew slightly better than those left in silence, the results were deemed inconclusive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-music-and-plants-exploring-the-possibilities-nbsp">Music and plants: Exploring the possibilities&nbsp;</h2>



However, with mounting challenges to the plant world such as erosion, deforestation, pollution, and an extinction crisis, scientists are increasingly concerned about the future of global biodiversity and crop production.&nbsp;



According to a new study published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsbl.2024.0295" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biology Letters</a>, the potential role of acoustic stimulation in aiding ecosystem recovery and sustainable food systems is still largely unexplored.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exposing-a-fungus-to-sound">Exposing a fungus to sound</h2>



Building on earlier research that exposed E. coli bacteria to sound waves, a team of Australian researchers aimed to assess the effect of sound on the growth and spore production of the fungus Trichoderma harzianum.&nbsp;



This fungus is commonly used in organic farming due to its ability to protect plants from pathogens, improve nutrient content in soil, and promote overall <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-plants-grow-more-branches-and-become-bushy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant growth</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-white-noise-vs-silence-nbsp">White noise vs. silence&nbsp;</h2>



For the study, the researchers created small sound booths containing petri dishes full of the fungi. Instead of playing pop music, they chose a white noise sound known as “Tinnitus Flosser Masker at 8 kHz,” which is commonly used in YouTube videos intended to relieve tinnitus or help babies sleep.&nbsp;



The noise, described as resembling “the sound of an old-school radio in between channels,” was selected for experimental reasons, according to lead author Jake Robinson, a microbial ecologist at <a href="https://www.flinders.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Flinders University</a>.



“We chose this monotone for controlled, experimental reasons, but it might be that a more diverse or natural soundscape is better,” Robinson said, adding that more research would be needed to explore this.



In the experiment, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-all-fungi-matter-not-just-mushrooms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fungi</a> were exposed to the sound at a level of 80 decibels for 30 minutes a day. After five days, the researchers observed that the fungi exposed to the sound had higher growth and spore production compared to those left in silence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-might-music-stimulate-plant-growth">How might music stimulate plant growth?</h2>



While the study’s results are not definitive, the researchers proposed several potential explanations.&nbsp;



One theory is that the acoustic waves might trigger the piezoelectric effect, which converts sound into an electrical charge that could stimulate fungal growth.&nbsp;



Another possibility involves tiny receptors on the fungi's membranes, known as mechanoreceptors. These receptors, similar to those in human skin that help with touch, might react to the sound waves, leading to a cascade of biochemical events that activate growth-related genes.



“It might be that sound waves stimulate these mechanoreceptors in the fungi, which then trigger a cascade of biochemical events that lead to genes being switched on or off - for instance, the kind of genes responsible for growth,” Robinson explained.



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



Robinson emphasized that while their preliminary research suggests fungi respond to sound, it is still unclear if this benefits plants.&nbsp;



The next step, he said, would be to explore whether playing sound could influence entire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-life-soil-planet-warming-global-carbon-cycle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbial communities</a> in the soil or even accelerate soil restoration processes.



“Can we influence soil or plant microbial communities as a whole? Can we speed up the soil restoration process by stimulating the earth with natural soundscapes? What impact might this have on the soil fauna? There are many important questions to keep us busy,” Robinson said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-acoustic-stimulation-and-plant-growth">Acoustic stimulation and plant growth</h2>



According to the researchers, the results indicate that acoustic stimulation influences plant growth-promoting fungal growth and potentially facilitates their functioning.&nbsp;



“The mechanism responsible for this phenomenon may be fungal mechanoreceptor stimulation and/or potentially a piezoelectric effect; however, further research is required to confirm this hypothesis,” the experts noted.&nbsp;



“Our novel study highlights the potential of acoustic stimulation to alter important fungal attributes, which could, with further development, be harnessed to aid ecosystem restoration and sustainable agriculture.”



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Can music help plants grow? 

Playing a monotonous sound can stimulate the activity of a...

Each year on October 3rd, National Butterfly and Hummingbird Day is celebrated across the United States.&nbsp;



The goal is to raise awareness about the importance of hummingbirds and butterflies, which are indispensable to the health and survival of our ecosystems.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-significance-nbsp-of-butterflies-and-hummingbirds">Ecological significance&nbsp;of butterflies and hummingbirds </h2>



Both butterflies and hummingbirds contribute to plant reproduction by transferring pollen between flowers.



With their long beaks and tongues, hummingbirds are particularly important for pollinating tubular flowers that other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollinators-face-extinction-risk-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> cannot access. 



Butterflies tend to pollinate plants that bloom in daylight and have bright colors to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bees-prefer-flowers-with-large-bullseyes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">attract</a> them. Butterflies are also drawn to a flat landing surface, which makes it easier to access nectar.



Thousands of plant species rely on pollination from butterflies and hummingbirds. Without these pollinators, many plants would struggle to survive.&nbsp;



The loss of unique plant species would have cascading impacts on the animals and insects that depend on them for food and shelter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-makes-butterflies-and-hummingbirds-special">What makes butterflies and hummingbirds special?</h2>



Beyond their vital roles in pollination, butterflies and hummingbirds have some truly amazing qualities.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hummingbirds-the-masters-of-flight">Hummingbirds: The masters of flight</h3>



Hummingbirds are the only birds that can hover in place and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-hummingbirds-deal-with-their-need-for-flight-speed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fly</a> in all directions - forward, backward, and even upside down. Their wings beat at an incredibly fast rate, often between 50 to 80 beats per second, allowing them to hover with precision while feeding on nectar.



Hummingbirds have the highest metabolism of any warm-blooded animal. To support their high energy demands, they consume large quantities of nectar, sometimes feeding every 10 to 15 minutes. They also eat insects and spiders for protein.



Some species, like the ruby-throated hummingbird, migrate thousands of miles, often crossing large bodies of water like the Gulf of Mexico during their seasonal journeys.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extraordinary-transformation-of-butterflies">Extraordinary transformation of butterflies</h3>



Butterflies undergo one of the most extraordinary transformations in the animal kingdom. Their metamorphosis is not only fascinating but also allows <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/butterflies-use-static-electricity-to-catch-pollen-without-touching/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterflies</a> to occupy different ecological niches at each stage.



The vivid colors and intricate wing patterns of butterflies are not only beautiful but serve important functions. Some use bright colors for camouflage or warning predators that they are toxic, while others mimic more dangerous species to avoid being eaten.



Some butterfly species are known for long migrations. Monarchs, for example, travel thousands of miles from North America to Central Mexico to escape cold winters - a feat that is especially impressive given their delicate bodies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emphasis-on-conservation-efforts">Emphasis on conservation efforts</h2>



The biggest threats to hummingbirds and butterflies are habitat loss, climate change, and the widespread use of pesticides. They are also threatened by invasive species, light pollution, and diseases.&nbsp;



National Butterfly and Hummingbird Day aims to raise awareness about these challenges and encourages efforts to protect their habitats.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threatened-hummingbirds-nbsp">Threatened hummingbirds&nbsp;</h2>



Several species of hummingbirds are listed as threatened or endangered.&nbsp;In the United States, Allen's hummingbird is considered near-threatened due to habitat destruction in California, where urbanization and agricultural expansion are wiping out its natural range.



While it is not yet classified as endangered, the Rufous hummingbird has sharply declined in numbers, especially in the Pacific Northwest.



The situation is even more critical in Central and South America, where the diversity of hummingbirds is much higher. Species like the Esmeraldas Woodstar and the Santa Marta Sabrewing are listed as endangered due to habitat loss and fragmentation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vanishing-butterflies">Vanishing butterflies</h2>



In many parts of the world, butterfly populations are starting to vanish. Several factors contribute to their disappearance, with some species being more vulnerable than others.



Iconic species like the monarch butterfly have experienced significant population declines. In recent decades, the Western monarch population in the U.S. has decreased by over 90 percent.



The Miami Blue is a critically endangered butterfly that is native to South Florida. It is found mostly in coastal areas like the Florida Keys. Once common throughout its range, the Miami Blue has experienced a drastic decline due to habitat loss and degradation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-taking-action-for-pollinators-nbsp">Taking action for pollinators&nbsp;</h2>



So, how can you make a difference? The best way to support butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators is to create an environment where they can thrive. Here are some ideas:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-native-flowers-nbsp">Plant native flowers&nbsp;</h3>



Choose plants native to your region, as they provide the best food and habitat for local pollinators. Species like milkweed, bee balm, and echinacea are great for butterflies, while tubular flowers like salvia and columbine attract hummingbirds.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-create-pollinator-friendly-gardens">Create pollinator-friendly gardens</h3>



Include a variety of plants that bloom throughout the seasons to provide a steady food supply. Avoid using pesticides and herbicides, which can harm <a href="https://www.earth.com/search-results/?search=Flowers&amp;start=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-provide-water-sources-nbsp">Provide water sources&nbsp;</h3>



Place shallow dishes of water with rocks or marbles for butterflies to land on, and create birdbaths or shallow water areas for hummingbirds.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-offer-shelter">Offer shelter</h3>



Allow some areas in your garden to grow wild, with grasses and shrubs where pollinators can find shelter. You can also set up butterfly houses or nesting materials for hummingbirds.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduce-pesticide-use-nbsp">Reduce pesticide use&nbsp;</h3>



Avoid using chemicals in your garden, or opt for organic alternatives. Pollinators are sensitive to chemicals, and pesticides can reduce their populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-celebrating-national-butterfly-and-hummingbird-day">Celebrating National Butterfly and Hummingbird Day</h2>



There are unlimited ways to observe National Butterfly and Hummingbird Day, and that includes simply getting outside. Studies have shown that connecting with nature has significant mental health benefits. 



One particular <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9754067/#:~:text=Of%20the%2039%20included%20studies,%2C%20respectively%20(Figure%205)." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">analysis</a> published by the National Institutes of Health showed that 92% of relevant studies showed consistent improvements across any health outcome where individuals engaged with natural outdoor environments.



Watching butterflies and hummingbirds in a natural setting, for example, can reduce stress and promote mindfulness.



Whether you choose to plant a flower garden, take a nature walk, or simply just appreciate the beauty of life today, the most important thing is to recognize our connection to nature and the responsibility we have to protect the creatures that maintain it. 



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National Butterfly and Hummingbird Day: Celebrating the beauty of life

Each year on October 3rd, National Butterfly and Hummingbird Day...

Researchers studying Pluto's small moon, Charon, found something remarkable: carbon dioxide and hydrogen peroxide. This is the first time these chemicals have been discovered on the frozen surface of that particular moon.



A team of astronomers at the Southwest Research Institute, using the James Webb Space Telescope, recently confirmed this unexpected discovery.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-charon-a-very-special-moon">Charon: A very special moon</h2>



For a moon that's just floating around in the Kuiper Belt orbiting a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eris-and-makemake-icy-dwarf-planets-in-our-own-solar-system-may-support-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dwarf planet</a>, Charon is unique. How so? Well, it's the only object of its kind that we've managed to map geologically.



“Charon is the only midsized Kuiper Belt object, in the range of 300 to 1,000 miles in diameter, that has been geologically mapped, thanks to the SwRI-led New Horizons mission, which flew by the Pluto system in 2015,” said <a href="https://www.swri.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SwRI</a>’s Dr. Silvia Protopapa, lead author of a new Nature Communications paper and co-investigator of the <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/new-horizons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Horizons mission</a>.



“Unlike many of the larger objects in the Kuiper Belt, the surface of Charon is not obscured by highly volatile ices such as methane and therefore provides valuable insights into how processes like sunlight exposure and cratering affect these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-faint-glow-of-the-universe-is-slowly-dimming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distant bodies</a>.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-charon-and-carbon-dioxide">Webb, Charon, and carbon dioxide</h2>



<a href="https://webbtelescope.org/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Webb telescope</a> is a fantastic tool for inspecting Charon and other frosty bodies beyond Neptune's orbit.



In 2022 and 2023, the research team was able to get four different observations of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pluto-may-not-be-real-planet-but-has-real-big-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pluto-Charon system</a>, and that gave them a complete view of Charon's northern hemisphere. 



It's a bit like changing your angle of view to get a better look, and boy, did they see some fascinating stuff.



The extended observations made with Webb revealed the signatures of carbon dioxide on Charon. 



By comparing these observations with lab measurements and detailed spectral models of the surface, the team concluded that carbon dioxide primarily exists as a veneer on a subsurface rich in water ice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-charon-s-carbon-past-and-future">Charon's carbon past and future</h2>



This carbon dioxide layer likely comes from Charon's interior, exposed through cratering events. It is potentially a remnant from the protoplanetary disk that gave birth to the whole <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pluto-got-its-heart-in-a-violent-collision/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pluto</a> system. 



It doesn't stop at carbon dioxide, though. 



The detection of hydrogen peroxide is particularly intriguing because it shows that Charon's water ice-rich surface undergoes change due to the UV light from the Sun and particles from the solar wind and galactic cosmic rays.



Hydrogen peroxide comes from oxygen and hydrogen atoms, which are products of water ice breaking up due to incoming ions, electrons, or photons.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemistry-of-charon-s-surface">Chemistry of Charon's surface</h2>



The discovery of carbon dioxide and hydrogen peroxide on Charon invites us to explore the complex chemistry occurring on its surface. 



The interactions between solar radiation, cosmic particles, and the moon's icy terrain create a dynamic environment. 



Understanding these chemical processes helps scientists infer the evolution and composition of Charon over time.



The presence of hydrogen peroxide, for instance, indicates oxidative stresses that involve radical reactions, significantly affecting the stability of surface compounds. 



This detailed chemical portrait enhances our comprehension of similar celestial bodies in the Kuiper Belt and beyond.



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



The detection of these chemicals on Charon introduces intriguing astrobiological questions. 



While neither carbon dioxide nor hydrogen peroxide by themselves suggest life, they are components of the broader chemical processes that could impact any biological precursors.



Scientists speculate that the mechanisms observed on Charon might exist on other icy bodies, opening potential research avenues in the quest to understand the habitability of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ceres-largest-asteroid-in-our-solar-system-used-to-be-an-ancient-ocean-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distant worlds</a>. 



These findings underscore the importance of Charon as a natural laboratory for examining prebiotic chemistry, further amplified by the pristine conditions of the outer solar system where it resides.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-art-of-synergy">Art of synergy</h2>



None of this discovery would be possible without the combination of Webb's observations, spectral modeling, and lab experiments. 



It's the triplet of these processes that allowed for new insights into the composition of Charon. And the same approach could work for other similar-sized objects beyond Neptune.



In conclusion, we're just scratching the surface of what we can learn from our outer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-objects-spotted-in-the-outer-solar-system-beyond-pluto/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar system</a>. 



With tools like the Webb telescope and the brilliant minds working on this research, who knows what we'll uncover next?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51826-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Carbon dioxide discovered on Pluto's moon Charon

Researchers studying Pluto's small moon, Charon, found something remarkable: carbon...

They've cropped up in food, infiltrated our drinking water, find their way into our bodies and now, they've staked a claim in the world's most extensive rainforest. We're talking about PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," infiltrating the previously pristine Amazon rainforest. 



PFAS stands for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances, and they are notoriously known as "forever chemicals" because they last forever. 



But why should we be worried? And what exactly are these PFAS forever chemicals, anyway?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-pfas-forever-chemicals">What are PFAS forever chemicals?</h2>



PFAS are a class of human-made <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-can-now-trace-forever-chemicals-back-to-their-sources/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemicals</a> used in a vast array of consumer products -- from non-stick pans to firefighting foam -- thanks to their potent oil and water repelling abilities. But this convenience comes at a hefty price.



PFAS have been linked to a host of health problems including infertility, behavioral disorders, and an assortment of cancers.



They're dubbed 'forever chemicals' -- and it's not because they're a symbol of eternal love -- they're designed to resist decomposition, sticking around indefinitely in our bodies and the environment at large.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pfas-forever-chemicals-in-the-amazon">PFAS forever chemicals in the Amazon</h2>



The study spearheaded by Dr. Ivan Kourtchev from <a href="https://www.coventry.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coventry University</a>'s research center for agroecology, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-filtration-system-removes-forever-chemicals-from-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water and resilience</a>, unearthed the presence of PFAS in the atmosphere surrounding the Amazonian trees.



The find was not only surprising but also deeply alarming. According to Dr. Kourtchev, the appearance of these 'forever chemicals' in the air above the seemingly untouched <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nearly-40-of-climate-critical-amazon-rainforest-is-unprotected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon rainforest</a> was nothing short of 'shocking'.



"Precisely what you don’t want to hear when talking about one of Earth's most precious and diverse ecosystems, right? But here we are," he commented.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amazon-under-threat">Amazon under threat</h2>



Dr. Kourtchev and his team are now on a mission to understand the potential risk these chemicals pose to Amazon's flora. 



"The Amazon is a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-rainforest-is-approaching-widespread-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unique ecosystem</a> teeming with rare, exotic species. Any imbalance caused by these PFAS can spell disaster for biodiversity and species survival," he warned.



With over 30 million people calling the Amazon home, the risk is not limited to the ecosystem alone. These residents could be inhaling PFAS, exposing their bodies to the toxic effects of these chemicals. 



"Our bodies can mistake these chemicals for hormones, leading to infertility. This hormonal mimicry could disrupt the reproduction of unique animals and vegetation in the region as well," Dr. Kourtchev explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-following-the-forever-chemicals-trail">Following the forever chemicals trail</h2>



In an extensive study, the research team collected air samples from the top of the Amazon Tall Tower Observatory, standing tall at a whopping 1,066-foot (approximately 325 meters), mirroring the stature of the renowned Eiffel Tower.



The sample analysis, conducted back at Coventry University, was steered by Dr. Kourtchev employing a sensitive technique he previously pioneered.



What the team found was stirring -- PFAS were not locally sourced. They were transported long-range, making their way from afar. 



This puzzle prompted Dr. Kourtchev and his team to examine how these forever chemicals were being trafficked.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-call-for-awareness-and-action">Call for awareness and action</h2>



According to the team's paper, published in Science of The Total Environment, this research marked the first measurement of forever chemicals in the atmosphere of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-mortality-is-pushing-the-amazon-to-a-tipping-point/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon rainforest</a>.



The prevalence of PFAS in various day-to-day products and their ability to contaminate drinking water turn them into a serious health menace.



Remember, PFAS don't just vanish. They linger inside our bodies, leading to severe health issues including fertility problems and developmental complications, especially in pregnant women and their newborns. 



It's high time we raised awareness about their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-microbes-discovered-destroys-pfas-forever-chemicals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">possible environmental implications</a>, pushing for informed choices and safer practices.



The Amazon is the green lung of our planet, a dynamic and vibrant ecosystem that deserves our protection. 



As we continue to study and understand the impact of forever chemicals in this region, it's crucial for all of us to realize that the wellbeing of the Amazon is interlinked with our own.



So, what's our role in this story? Well, it begins with awareness, carries on with responsible product choices and ends with spreading the word. After all, these 'forever chemicals' should not dictate our future or that of the Amazon.



The study is published in the journal <a class="" href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S004896972404066X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science of The Total Environment</a>.&nbsp;



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Dangerous PFAS 'forever chemicals' found in the Amazon rainforest

They've cropped up in food, infiltrated our drinking water, find...

Hurricane Helene left a trail of destruction across the southeastern U.S., underscoring how a combination of natural forces, inadequate infrastructure, and human decisions can magnify the impact of disasters. 



The storm's severe flooding revealed just how vulnerable many communities are to these converging factors, calling attention to the urgent need for improved resilience and preparation.



According to Manoochehr Shirzaei, an associate professor of geophysics at <a href="https://www.vt.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virginia Tech</a>: "The tragic flood event in the southeast U.S. is a poignant example of the confluence of multiple factors, including development in floodplains, inadequate infrastructure maintenance and management, and the specter of climate change, whose compounding effect can amplify the disaster."



The hurricane highlighted the growing necessity for better community readiness in the face of mounting environmental challenges. 



"Both observational data and climate models suggest that the frequency and intensity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-forecast-more-extreme-precipitation-ahead/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme precipitation</a> events have been increasing and are projected to continue rising," said Shirzaei.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deteriorating-infrastructure-a-ticking-time-bomb">Deteriorating infrastructure: A ticking time bomb</h2>



Aging infrastructure played a critical role in amplifying the destructive effects of Hurricane Helene. 



Shirzaei warned that legacy systems, including levees, dams, bridges, roads, and electrical grids, were not originally designed to endure the growing severity of hurricanes exacerbated by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-hurricanes-are-intensifying-faster-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. "As these structures deteriorate with time, their vulnerability to failure during extreme weather events increases."



The hurricane’s path of destruction also exposed the repercussions of insufficient infrastructure maintenance, which added to the disaster's devastation. 



As <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-weather-is-becoming-more-difficult-to-predict/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme weather</a> events grow more frequent, addressing the condition of these aging systems becomes critical to reducing future disaster risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-settlements-amplifying-the-risk">Human settlements: Amplifying the risk</h2>



Human settlements in flood-prone areas have dramatically increased the risk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-and-severe-flooding-will-continue-to-intensify/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">severe flooding</a>. 



"Over the past few decades, the expansion of human populations into flood-prone areas has accelerated worldwide," noted Shirzaei.



Many communities are located in river valleys or downstream of dams, areas particularly susceptible to sudden water discharges and significant flooding.



Hurricane Helene's devastating impact on such regions serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of building in high-risk areas. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-destruction-and-tragic-loss-of-life">Destruction and tragic loss of life</h2>



Making landfall in Florida, the storm quickly turned northwest, soaking Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, and Virginia, leaving behind widespread flooding, destruction, and tragic loss of life.



At least 190 people have been confirmed dead following the devastation caused by Helene. 



More than half of the fatalities occurred in North Carolina, where entire communities were swept away by several feet of fast-moving floodwaters. Hundreds remain missing, and authorities are facing challenges in identifying some of the victims.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-hurricane-helene">Lessons from Hurricane Helene</h2>



The lessons we learn from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene highlight the pressing need for more effective strategies for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-disasters-are-on-the-rise-but-hazard-plans-are-inadequate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disaster mitigation</a> and improved community resilience.



"The anomalously high precipitation linked to Hurricane Helene can be partially attributed to a warming atmosphere, which has an enhanced ability to retain moisture," said Shirzaei.



These increasingly frequent weather events make it clear that it's not just about combating climate change but also about rethinking our development practices and strengthening our infrastructure to withstand the growing severity of these storms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hurricane-helene-and-climate-change">Hurricane Helene and climate change</h2>



Hurricane Helene is more than just a single event; it offers a glimpse into how climate change is altering the behavior of storms worldwide. 



Scientific evidence has shown that warmer oceans and rising global temperatures contribute to the increasing frequency and intensity of hurricanes. 



As atmospheric moisture levels rise, storms like Helene can draw on additional energy, leading to stronger winds, heavier rainfall, and more widespread flooding.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-driven-changes-and-vulnerable-communities">Climate-driven changes and vulnerable communities </h2>



Research indicates that the southeastern U.S., where Hurricane Helene struck, is especially vulnerable to these climate-driven changes. 



Warmer waters in the Atlantic, coupled with shifting atmospheric patterns, provide the ideal conditions for hurricanes to grow in both size and strength. 



The result is a greater risk of catastrophic damage to communities that are already vulnerable due to aging infrastructure and flood-prone development.



Hurricane Helene emphasizes the reality that climate change is no longer a distant threat but an immediate concern.



As weather extremes become more pronounced, the storm serves as a call to action for governments, scientists, and communities to address the root causes of climate change while developing more resilient strategies to cope with its consequences.



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Hurricane Helene: Aging infrastructure in a dangerous climate

Hurricane Helene left a trail of destruction across the southeastern...

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE
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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.

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https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex
</div></figure>







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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

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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...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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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"

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

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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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