<p>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.</p>



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



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



<p>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.</p>



<p><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.</p>



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



<p>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. </p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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



<p><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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>"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.</p>



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



<p>Breaking it all down, the conclusions of this study are pretty simple. </p>



<p><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.</p>



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



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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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. </p>



<p><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. </p>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>"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."</p>



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



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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"><em>Forest Ecology and Management</em></a>.</p>



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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...

<p>A fossil discovered over a century ago has been confirmed as the oldest <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Trachelosaurus-fischeri_skeleton-comparison_Swiss-Journal-Paleontology_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">long-necked marine reptile</a>. A team of international scientists re-examined the <em>Trachelosaurus fischeri</em> fossil, transforming our knowledge of Triassic marine life.</p>



<p>This discovery by <a href="https://www.naturkundemuseum-bw.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">State Museum of Natural History Stuttgart</a> provides a thrilling new chapter in the ancient marine ecosystems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovery-of-trachelosaurus-fischeri">Discovery of <em>Trachelosaurus fischeri</em></h2>



<p>The story of <em>Trachelosaurus fischeri </em>began in 19th century Germany, where its fossilized remains were discovered. However, its unusual anatomy caused confusion among scientists. For decades, the true identity of this perplexing creature remained shrouded in mystery.</p>



<p>"Through research on Chinese fossils of the long-necked marine reptile <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinocephalosaurus-240-million-year-old-chinese-dragon-was-a-fierce-predator/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dinocephalosaurus</a>, which I published with colleagues just a few weeks ago, we were able to solve the mystery of <em>Trachelosaurus fischeri</em>. The anatomy shows us that it is closely related to Dinocephalosaurus," explains <a href="https://www.stephanspiekman.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Stephan Spiekman</a>, an expert on this group of animals.</p>



<p>"Trachelosaurus fischeri is the first fossil of this reptile group to be found outside of China. It is also the oldest long-necked marine <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/are-chameleons-reptiles-yes-heres-why/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reptile</a> known to date."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-features-of-trachelosaurus-fischeri">Unique features of <em>Trachelosaurus fischeri</em></h2>



<p>The fossil offers a tantalizing glimpse into the evolutionary past. Following are the peculiar details of its anatomy.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disjointed-skeleton">Disjointed skeleton</h3>



<p>The partially disarticulated skeleton of <em>Trachelosaurus fischeri</em> provides valuable clues. It includes skull fragments, a substantial section of the spine, parts of the tail vertebrae, a well-preserved rib cage, sections of the pelvis, a femur, and even a possible foot bone. </p>



<p>These elements, though fragmented, give researchers a strong foundation for comparison with other early archosauromorphs.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elongated-spine">Elongated spine</h3>



<p>Remarkably, <em>Trachelosaurus fischeri</em> boasts a long spine, with at least 21 neck vertebrae and 27 back vertebrae. This elongation is a hallmark of the tanysaurians. Furthermore, the ends of the spine's neural arches widen distinctively, unlike anything seen in other Triassic archosauromorphs. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unusual-ribs">Unusual ribs</h3>



<p>The creature's neck ribs are equally bizarre with their short, forked design, never extending past the length of the vertebra they belong to. This is another unusual trait unseen in its close relatives.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-clues">Additional clues</h3>



<p>The fossil's right premaxilla reveals long, slightly curved teeth devoid of serrations – a feature resembling some tanystropheids and trachelosaurids. </p>



<p>Moving beyond the head, <em>Trachelosaurus fischeri</em> lacks a some parts of the pelvis, and its femur is surprisingly stout without a bend. Its barrel-shaped torso and rounded ribs show that this creature was built for life in the water.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-survival-strategies">Survival strategies</h2>



<p>Scientists suspect its signature long neck was a crucial weapon in its hunting arsenal. With lightning-fast strikes, it likely ambushed unsuspecting prey. </p>



<p>Furthermore, the discovery of land-dwelling animal footprints near the <em>Trachelosaurus fischeri</em> fossil paints a dramatic scene. It's possible the reptile ventured too close to the shore, or perhaps violent weather washed it ashore into shallow waters. </p>



<p>These footprints reveal the ever-changing nature of prehistoric coastlines, where the boundaries blurred between land and sea. The mix of marine and terrestrial creatures in the same rock layer suggests a thriving and diverse ecosystem. </p>



<p>The coastal waters were likely a bountiful hunting ground for Trachelosaurus fischeri. Yet, these same waters carried a deadly risk, as its fossilized remains tragically attest.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-the-trachelosaurus-fischeri-fossil-matters">Why the Trachelosaurus fischeri fossil matters</h2>



<p>The discovery of <em>Trachelosaurus fischeri</em> reveals the astonishing resilience of life. After the devastating Permian-Triassic extinction event 252 million years ago, Earth's biodiversity took a massive hit. </p>



<p>Yet, remarkably, life bounced back. Unique creatures like long-necked <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gondwana-ancient-reptile-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reptiles</a> evolved and thrived in the transformed marine world.</p>



<p>The story of <em>Trachelosaurus fischeri</em> is about more than just this single <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/280-million-year-old-fossil-of-tridentinosaurus-antiquus-proven-to-be-a-forgery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil</a>. It reminds us that museum collections hold vast, untapped potential. Old specimens, sometimes overlooked, can unveil incredible secrets when studied with new perspectives and advanced techniques. </p>



<p>This fossil's century-long journey, from discovery to re-examination, highlights how museums and universities continue to unlock the mysteries of our planet's past.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <a href="https://doi.org/10.1186/s13358-024-00309-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swiss Journal of Palaeontology</a>.</p>



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Trachelosaurus fischeri: World's oldest long-necked marine reptile rediscovered

A fossil discovered over a century ago has been confirmed...

<p>A colossal freshwater turtle fossil, dating back to the late Pleistocene era (40,000 to 9,000 years ago), was unearthed by researchers from the <a href="https://uni-tuebingen.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tübingen</a>. </p>



<p>Scientists named this remarkable creature "Peltocephalus maturin" after a colossal turtle in Stephen King's fictional universe. Remarkably, it is ranked among the largest known freshwater turtles that have ever existed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peltocephalus-maturin">Peltocephalus maturin</h2>



<p>The research was led by Dr. Gabriel S. Ferreira from the <a href="https://www.senckenberg.de/en/institutes/shep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Senckenberg Center for Human Evolution and Paleoenvironment</a>. </p>



<p>Interestingly, the study was launched after gold miners in Brazil's Amazon rainforest found a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-remnants-found-in-six-million-year-old-sea-turtle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossilized turtle</a> jaw. This ancient relic holds a wealth of knowledge for paleontologists.</p>



<p>Dr. Ferreira's expertise transformed a mere bone fragment into a key piece of evolutionary history. His team's careful analysis not only identified the species but also established a compelling link to the modern big-headed Amazon turtle (Peltocephalus dumerilianus). </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-characteristics-of-peltocephalus-maturin">Characteristics of Peltocephalus maturin</h2>



<p>Peltocephalus maturin has several standout <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-turtle-recovery-greatly-depends-on-foraging-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">features</a> that define its place within the turtle family tree. The experts gathered the following evidence:</p>



<ul>
<li>Size: Scientists estimate Peltocephalus maturin's shell at about nearly 6 feet long.</li>



<li>Powerful jaws:&nbsp;The specimen includes mostly complete, massive, and fused dentaries. The robust, fused jawbone suggests a strong bite and potential for an omnivorous diet (plants and animals).</li>



<li>Hooked tip:&nbsp;A distinctive hooked tip at the front of the jaw likely played a role in the turtle's feeding habits.</li>



<li>Ridges and shape:&nbsp;Unique straight ridges and a U-shaped structure on the jawbone are notable, as is a well-developed hook at the front and a platform below the chewing surface.</li>



<li>Telling Pits:&nbsp;The jawbone has a small pit with two indentations, a pattern that differs from other related turtle species.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coexistence-with-humans">Coexistence with humans</h2>



<p>"In the past, we only know of a few <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-turtles-are-making-a-comeback-in-the-cayman-islands/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">turtles</a> living in fresh waters that had a shell length of more than 150 centimeters (4.9 feet)," explained Dr. Ferreira. "Such large animals are most recently known primarily from the Miocene, the period around 23 to 5 million years ago."</p>



<p>The discovery of Peltocephalus maturin changes things. This giant turtle was alive much more recently, meaning it likely co-existed with early humans in the Amazon.</p>



<p>"People settled in the Amazon region around 12,600 years ago," noted Dr. Ferreira. "We also know that large tortoises have been on the diet of hominins since the Paleolithic."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-human-expansion">Impact of human expansion</h2>



<p>The researchers are uncertain whether Peltocephalus maturin and other megafaunal species fell <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-turtles-are-now-ingesting-disposable-face-masks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">victim</a> to human expansion in the region. </p>



<p>"Whether freshwater turtles, which are much more difficult to catch due to their agility, were also eaten by early humans and whether Peltocephalus maturin - together with the South American megafauna - fell victim to human expansion is still unclear."</p>



<p>To shed light on this mystery, Dr. Ferreira emphasized the need for further exploration. "Here we need more data from the Late Pleistocene and Early Holocene deposits of the Amazon Basin."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovery-of-peltocephalus-maturin">Discovery of Peltocephalus maturin</h2>



<p>Ancient turtles hold a special fascination for paleontologists. These remarkably long-lived creatures, with fossils dating back over 220 million years, have survived mass extinctions and adapted to an astonishing variety of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-level-rise-threatens-turtle-breeding-grounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environments</a>. </p>



<p>The discovery of Peltocephalus maturin expands our understanding of the remarkable diversity of ancient life. It also raises fascinating questions about the interactions between early humans and the megafauna that once roamed the Amazon. </p>



<p>Moreover, ancient turtles were not just passive observers – they actively shaped their environments. Their size and diet, revealed through fossils, offer clues about their place in the food chain and how they interacted with other species. This knowledge informs our understanding of how ancient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/freshwater-turtles-improve-the-health-of-river-systems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> functioned.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsbl.2024.0010">Biology Letters</a>.</p>



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<p>‌</p>

Peltocephalus maturin: Giant turtle named after Stephen King novel

A colossal freshwater turtle fossil, dating back to the late...

Blurred,People,In,A,Modern,Hall

<p>Neuroscientists from EPFL have shed light on a fascinating aspect of human and animal behavior called "presence hallucinations" -- the tendency to overestimate numbers, particularly in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-perception-we-see-the-world-based-on-what-we-expect-to-see/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social settings</a>. </p>



<p>This behavior, deeply rooted in our evolutionary past, serves as a protective mechanism, ensuring we err on the side of caution by overestimating potential threats, such as predators. </p>



<p>Imagine walking through a jungle. It's far safer to assume there are more tigers lurking than there actually are. This innate behavior transcends species, highlighting a fundamental <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-perception-changes-with-our-walking-rhythm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survival strategy</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-overcounting-relates-to-parkinson-s-disease">How overcounting relates to Parkinson's disease</h2>



<p>The study, recently published in <em>Nature Communications</em>, ventures into the realm of hallucinations associated with illnesses like Parkinson's disease, revealing that those experiencing such <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brain-delays-visual-inputs-by-15-seconds-to-keep-us-stable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hallucinations</a> tend to overestimate the number of people in a room even more significantly. </p>



<p>Interestingly, this heightened overestimation does not extend to inanimate objects, such as boxes, suggesting a uniquely <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emotions-sensory-perception-brain-fascinating-interplay/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social dimension</a> to this phenomenon.</p>



<p>Olaf Blanke, leading the Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience at <a href="https://www.epfl.ch/labs/lnco/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EPFL</a> and a part of <a href="https://www.neuroxlab.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neuro-X</a>, expressed astonishment at the findings. </p>



<p>“The fact that patients of Parkinson’s disease have a much higher over-estimation in counting people is mind-blowing because Parkinson’s disease is classically viewed as a movement disorder,” says Blanke. “We show that Parkinson’s may also be a perceptual disorder, especially of social stimuli, and that invisible presences in Parkinson’s Disease may impair even more the counting social brain!”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prescence-hallucinations-and-their-role-in-social-overcounting">Prescence hallucinations and their role in social overcounting</h2>



<p>The study focuses on "presence hallucinations," where individuals feel an invisible entity nearby, despite no one being present. These hallucinations, often minor compared to visual ones, can appear early in Parkinson's disease, sometimes predating diagnosis, and serve as an early indicator of cognitive decline.</p>



<p>Researchers propose that the sensation of an invisible presence, likely due to specific <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-experiences-alter-time-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain mechanisms</a>, contributes to the overestimation of people. </p>



<p>This "extra presence" is subconsciously added to the count but only when estimating the number of people, not objects. This discovery underscores the social nature of our perceptual systems and their susceptibility to disorders like Parkinson's.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technodelics-merging-vr-and-robotics">Technodelics: Merging VR and robotics</h2>



<p>To explore this theory, the team employed a novel approach, merging virtual reality with robotics in a method they dub "technodelics." This innovative combination creates technology-induced altered states of consciousness and hallucinations. </p>



<p>In their experiments, participants were shown brief 3D scenes of varying numbers of people and experienced artificial presence hallucinations via a robotic finger. This setup not only induced hallucinations but also provided a measurable indication of an individual's susceptibility to them.</p>



<p>“The advantage of our technodelics environment is that it gives us an objective way to measure hallucinations which are highly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-sense-of-smell-can-change-the-colors-we-see/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">subjective states</a>,” explains Louis Albert, lead author of the study. “We are essentially engineering hallucinations, inducing hallucinations and getting a clear, implicit read-out of hallucination susceptibility at a given time.” </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-presence-hallucinations-with-virtual-worlds">Testing presence hallucinations with virtual worlds</h2>



<p>This research has led to the development of a simplified, online version of their experiment, allowing for unobtrusive testing from home. This breakthrough offers a significant advancement in assessing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-hallucination/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hallucination</a> susceptibility, especially in Parkinson's disease patients, without the need for specialized equipment or personnel.</p>



<p>“The test can be carried out independently by patients, directly from home on their computer or tablet, thus has the potential to reach a large demographic at minimal cost," Albert said. </p>



<p>"Without the need for patients to travel to the clinic, this test is accessible and can reach people living far away from medical centers and in low-income countries," he concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-scientists-learned">What the scientists learned</h2>



<p>With around 170 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dopamine-plays-an-unexpected-role-in-movement-and-parkinsons-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Parkinson's disease</a> patients participating in the online test, including 69 with presence hallucinations, the study confirmed that those experiencing these hallucinations tend to overcount more. Remarkably, some reported seeing as many as 11 or more people in scenes showing only eight.</p>



<p>Fosco Bernasconi, a co-author of the study, highlighted the clinical implications of their findings. "We have strategies for determining if a patient with Parkinson’s disease experiences presence hallucinations or not, which means that in the future we should be able to identify and monitor those who are more prone to cognitive decline for early treatment."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-redefining-perception-and-the-future-of-parkinson-s-care">Redefining perception and the future of Parkinson's care</h2>



<p>In summary, EPFL neuroscientists have revolutionized our understanding of the human tendency to overcount in social settings. In their study, they linked this phenomenon to the "presence hallucinations" often experienced by individuals with Parkinson's disease. </p>



<p>Through innovative technodelic experiments merging virtual reality with robotics, they were able to showcase the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-and-adults-perceive-time-differently/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social nature</a> of our perceptual inaccuracies and opened new avenues for diagnosing and treating cognitive impairments early on. </p>



<p>This fascinating and important research challenges our traditional views of Parkinson's disease while providing a hope for those affected, promising more personalized and effective interventions in the future.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-parkinson-s-disease-and-presence-hallucinations">More about Parkinson's disease and presence hallucinations</h2>



<p>As discussed above, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pesticide-exposure-increases-the-risk-of-parkinsons-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Parkinson's disease</a> primarily stems from the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in a region of the brain called the substantia nigra. Dopamine acts as a messenger that coordinates smooth and balanced muscle movements. Why these neurons deteriorate remains largely unknown, but researchers believe a combination of genetic and environmental factors plays a critical role.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symptoms-beyond-the-shakes">Symptoms beyond the shakes</h3>



<p>While tremors are among the most visible symptoms of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coffee-grounds-could-help-prevent-neurodegenerative-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Parkinson's disease</a>, the condition manifests in several other ways, including through presence hallucinations.</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Rigidity and Bradykinesia</strong>: Patients often experience stiffness and slowness in movement, making daily tasks challenging.<br></li>



<li><strong>Postural Instability</strong>: Balance problems and falls are common, stemming from the disease's impact on motor control.<br></li>



<li><strong>Cognitive and Emotional Changes</strong>: Many individuals face difficulties with memory, problem-solving, and emotional regulation, including depression and anxiety.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovations-in-treatment">Innovations in treatment</h2>



<p>Treatment for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-dance-of-dopamine-and-serotonin-influences-social-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Parkinson's disease</a> is highly individualized, aiming to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The most common treatments include:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Medication</strong>: Drugs like Levodopa increase dopamine levels in the brain, alleviating motor symptoms. Other medications target specific symptoms, such as tremors or rigidity.<br></li>



<li><strong>Physical Therapy</strong>: Tailored exercise programs help maintain mobility and balance, addressing the physical challenges of the disease.<br></li>



<li><strong>Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)</strong>: For some patients, this surgical procedure can significantly reduce symptoms by implanting electrodes in specific brain regions to regulate abnormal impulses.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-parkinson-s-care-and-treating-presence-hallucinations">Future of Parkinson's care and treating presence hallucinations</h3>



<p>Research into Parkinson's disease is ongoing, with scientists exploring genetic markers, environmental triggers, and new treatment modalities. Recent advancements in neuroimaging and molecular biology hold promise for early diagnosis and more targeted therapies. As understanding of the disease deepens, the hope for better management strategies and ultimately a cure continues to grow.</p>



<p>In summary, Parkinson's disease is a complex condition with far-reaching effects on individuals' lives. While there is no cure yet, advancements in treatment and care offer hope and improved outcomes for those affected. By staying informed and proactive, patients and caregivers can navigate the challenges of Parkinson's disease with resilience and determination.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/ncomms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



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We all have "presence hallucinations," but what causes them?

Neuroscientists from EPFL have shed light on a fascinating aspect...

<p>The arrival of spring in the Northern Hemisphere is officially heralded by the vernal equinox, which occurs on Tuesday, March 19. This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spring-has-arrived-in-the-northern-hemisphere/">event</a> marks a significant point in our annual journey around the sun, characterized by the equal balance of day and night across the globe.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-spring-equinox">Understanding the spring equinox</h2>



<p>The concept of the equinox is rooted in the Earth's orbital dynamics. As our planet orbits the sun, it does so at a tilt, with the axis not perfectly upright but inclined. This tilt results in varying solar intensity across the globe throughout the year, with the sun shining more directly on either the northern or southern hemisphere, depending on the Earth's position.</p>



<p>The equinox occurs when the tilt of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-rotation-is-shifting-toward-a-25-hour-day/">Earth's axis</a> and its orbit around the sun align in such a way that both hemispheres receive an equal amount of sunlight. This equilibrium gives the equinox its name, derived from Latin words meaning "equal night," signifying the near-equal length of day and night experienced globally during this time.</p>



<p>In the Northern Hemisphere, the vernal (spring) equinox can occur from March 19 to 21, while the autumnal (fall) equinox falls between September 21 and 24, marking the transitions between the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spring-finally-arrives-this-weekend/">seasons</a>.</p>



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



<p>Complementing the equinoxes are the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysteries-of-the-summer-solstice-the-longest-day-of-the-year/">solstices</a>, which signify the points in the year when the Earth's axial tilt is most pronounced towards or away from the sun, resulting in the greatest disparity in daylight hours.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The summer solstice, occurring between June 20 and 22, celebrates the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere as it tilts towards the sun. Conversely, the winter solstice, between December 20 and 23, marks the shortest day and longest night, as the hemisphere leans away from the sun.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-significance-of-the-spring-equinox">Cultural significance of the spring equinox</h2>



<p>The cultural significance of the spring equinox is deeply rooted in ancient traditions, mythology, and modern celebrations worldwide. This celestial event has long been a symbol of rebirth, renewal, and new beginnings, reflecting the awakening of nature from its winter sleep. Here are some key aspects of its cultural significance:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-renewal-and-rebirth">Renewal and rebirth</h3>



<p>In many cultures, the spring equinox is associated with the concept of renewal and rebirth. This is often symbolized by the return of fertility to the earth, the blossoming of flowers, and the birth of young animals. It's a time for cleansing and renewal, both physically and spiritually.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-celebrations">Ancient celebrations</h3>



<p>Many ancient civilizations built monuments aligned with the sun's position during equinoxes, demonstrating the importance of this event. For example, the Mayans' pyramid at Chichen Itza in Mexico is designed so that during the equinox, the shadow creates the appearance of a serpent slithering down the steps, symbolizing Kukulkan, the feathered serpent god.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-easter">Easter</h3>



<p>In Christianity, the timing of Easter is closely related to the spring equinox. Easter Sunday is determined as the first Sunday after the first full moon occurring on or after the vernal equinox. This connection emphasizes themes of resurrection and new life.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nowruz">Nowruz</h3>



<p>The Persian New Year, known as Nowruz, coincides with the spring equinox. It is a celebration of nature's renewal, family gatherings, and the sharing of meals. Nowruz has been celebrated for over 3,000 years across regions that were once part of the Persian Empire.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-higan-in-japan">Higan in Japan</h3>



<p>In Japan, the week of the spring equinox is called Higan. It is a Buddhist holiday that represents a period to remember the dead by visiting, cleaning, and decorating their graves. Higan means "the other shore" and refers to the spirits of the deceased reaching Nirvana.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pagan-and-neopagan-celebrations">Pagan and Neopagan celebrations</h3>



<p>For pagans and some neopagans, the spring equinox is celebrated as Ostara. It's a time to honor the goddess of dawn and fertility, Eostre, who is often symbolized by the hare and the egg, representing fertility and rebirth.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-day">Earth Day</h3>



<p>Some cultures and organizations choose the spring equinox as a symbolic day to celebrate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-day-2023-20-reasons-to-cherish-our-planet/">Earth Day</a>, focusing on environmental conservation and the appreciation of our planet's natural beauty and resources.</p>



<p>The spring equinox serves as a universal symbol of balance and a time to honor growth, life, and renewal. Its celebrations across different cultures underline the human connection to the cycles of nature and the importance of harmony with the environment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meteorological-vs-astronomical-seasons">Meteorological vs. astronomical seasons</h2>



<p>The classification of seasons can be approached in two distinct ways: meteorologically and astronomically. Meteorological seasons are based on annual temperature patterns and divide the year into four three-month periods, starting with spring on March 1, followed by summer on June 1, autumn on September 1, and winter on December 1.</p>



<p>Astronomical seasons, on the other hand, are determined by the Earth's position in its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-earths-orbit-drives-global-ice-age-cycles/">orbit</a> around the sun, with equinoxes heralding the beginnings of spring and autumn, and solstices marking the onset of summer and winter.</p>



<p>As we embrace the changing seasons, the spring equinox invites us to reflect on the Earth's natural rhythms and the interconnectedness of our global environment, offering a moment to appreciate the balance and transitions that define our planetary experience.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Spring equinox arrives in the Northern Hemisphere

The arrival of spring in the Northern Hemisphere is officially...

<p>Aetosaurs, a group of heavily armored reptiles akin to modern crocodiles, dominated the landscapes of the Triassic era, long before the reign of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-dinosaurs-benefited-from-changes-in-global-climate/">dinosaurs</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These ancient crocodile ancestors, which thrived approximately 200 million years ago, have left behind fossils scattered across all continents except Antarctica and Australia, revealing a rich diversity in form and function.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extensive-bony-armor-nbsp">Extensive bony armor&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Unlike the more celebrated dinosaurs, aetosaurs were characterized by their extensive bony armor, which has historically posed a significant challenge to scientists attempting to classify and understand these prehistoric beings due to the scarcity of complete fossilized skeletons.</p>



<p>In a groundbreaking study led by researchers from the <a href="https://www.utexas.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Texas at Austin</a> (UT), a remarkably preserved aetosaur armor provides new insights into the anatomy and evolutionary history of these ancient reptiles (<a href="https://www.eurekalert.org/multimedia/1019646">image</a>). </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-well-preserved-specimen-nbsp">Well-preserved specimen&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study, centered around an aetosaur carapace that is around 70% complete, marks a significant departure from the norm, offering a comprehensive view of the creature's protective bony plates spanning from the neck to the tail.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"We have elements from the back of the neck and shoulder region all the way to the tip of the tail," said lead author William Reyes, a doctoral student at the UT Jackson School of Geosciences, emphasizing the rarity of finding such well-preserved material.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-armadillo-like-version-of-a-crocodile">Armadillo-like version of a crocodile</h2>



<p>The study introduced <em>Garzapelta muelleri</em>, a new species of aetosaur named in honor of the area of its discovery (Garza County, Texas), the Latin word for shield (pelta), and the paleontologist who first unearthed it, Bill Mueller.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Garzapelta's appearance, heavily armored with bony plates and flanked by curved spikes for added defense, drew parallels to an armadillo-like version of a modern American <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-and-ecology-shaped-250-million-years-of-crocodile-evolution/">crocodile</a>, suggesting an omnivorous diet, in contrast to the carnivorous nature of today's crocodiles.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-convergent-evolution-within-the-aetosaur-lineage">Convergent evolution within the aetosaur lineage</h2>



<p>The research highlights the significance of osteoderms, the bony plates embedded in the skin of aetosaurs, in species identification. These osteoderms, while crucial for protection, also serve as a key to understanding the evolutionary adaptations of aetosaurs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study unveils the phenomenon of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/are-there-cases-of-convergent-evolution-between-reptiles-and-amphibians/">convergent evolution</a> within the aetosaur lineage, with Garzapelta's armor showcasing similarities to other species despite a distant genetic relationship, suggesting independent evolutionary paths leading to similar protective strategies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-relationships-among-aetosaurs-nbsp">Evolutionary relationships among aetosaurs&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Addressing Garzapelta's placement within the aetosaur phylogenetic tree proved to be a complex endeavor, as the research team navigated the intricacies of convergent evolution.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Depending on which armor features were emphasized, Garzapelta's phylogenetic position varied, underscoring the challenges in disentangling evolutionary relationships within this group.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Convergence of the osteoderms across distantly related aetosaurs has been noted before, but the carapace of <em>Garzapelta muelleri</em> is the best example of it," Reyes explained, highlighting the evolutionary dynamics at play and their implications for understanding phylogenetic relationships.</p>



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



<p>Housed in the <a href="https://www.ttu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Texas Tech University</a> fossil collections, Garzapelta spent decades on a shelf before catching the attention of Reyes. The study underscores the value of university and museum collections as repositories of untapped scientific knowledge, awaiting discovery and analysis by researchers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Bill Parker, an aetosaur specialist and park paleontologist at <a href="https://www.nps.gov/pefo/index.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Petrified Forest National</a>, who was not involved in the research, praised this study for bringing to light specimens that have languished in obscurity, emphasizing the importance of museum collections in advancing our understanding of prehistoric life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-exploration-of-aetosaur-evolution">Further exploration of aetosaur evolution</h2>



<p>Further exploration of aetosaur evolution, including the influence of age or sex on armor characteristics, remains a focal point of ongoing research. Reyes's continued examination of Jackson School’s aetosaur <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/preparing-fossils/">fossils</a>, primarily excavated in the 1940s, promises to shed additional light on the complexities of these ancient reptiles.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This research not only enriches the taxonomy of the aetosaur family but also deepens our comprehension of the ecological roles and evolutionary strategies of these Triassic giants, offering a glimpse into a world where armored crocodile-like creatures roamed the Earth long before the age of dinosaurs.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ar.25379" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>The Anatomical Record</em></a>.</p>



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Experts identify a new "aetosaur" that lived 200 million years ago

Aetosaurs, a group of heavily armored reptiles akin to modern...

<p>Did you have a special teddy bear as a kid? Maybe you still do! Turns out, those fuzzy companions are more than just cute toys – they're powerful sources of comfort, according to a new study. </p>



<p>Researchers from <a href="https://www.univ-amu.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aix-Marseille University</a> in France recently discovered that what makes teddy bears so special isn't their looks, smiles, or even how soft they are. The magic lies in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-does-love-look-like-in-the-brain-a-rush-of-dopamine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotional connection</a> we have with them.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotional-bond-with-teddy-bears">Emotional bond with teddy bears</h2>



<p>The French study surveyed over 300 adults about their childhood teddy bears and other special items. "The comforting power of the teddy bear has often been asserted in many past studies without knowing its underlying determinants," the researchers observed. </p>



<p>The experts aimed to delve deeper into what makes these objects so special. Contrary to what one might expect, it wasn't the bear's fluffy fur or beady eyes that mattered most. </p>



<p>"Our study revealed that the emotional bond shared with a  bear is a predominant factor," the researchers concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teddy-bears-as-transitional-objects">Teddy bears as transitional objects</h2>



<p>Imagine holding onto your childhood teddy bear, feeling an instant wave of comfort and security wash over you. It's more than just a toy; it's a bridge to your past, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pets-are-playing-a-lifesaving-role-this-year-during-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">companion</a> through thick and thin. </p>



<p>Psychologists call these treasured items "transitional objects," and they play a surprisingly powerful role in our emotional development.</p>



<p>Whether it's a frayed blanket, a well-loved stuffed animal, or something entirely unique, these objects hold immense significance in our youngest years. They help us navigate new experiences and provide a source of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/having-a-sense-of-purpose-makes-you-more-likely-to-find-love/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">love</a> and comfort when needed.</p>



<p>For many children, these companions become cherished confidantes, providing a sense of stability in a world of change. "The emotional bond built with a teddy bear makes it become unique and incomparable,” explained the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolving-forms-of-comfort">Evolving forms of comfort</h2>



<p>While toy bears are a classic example, our sources of comfort change and adapt as we do. A favorite coffee mug filled with a familiar drink can evoke that same feeling of warmth. </p>



<p>A song you loved as a teen might instantly transport you back to joyful moments or offer solace during tough times. Even a particular place, with its unique sights and smells, can become a sanctuary.</p>



<p>The specifics vary from person to person, but the common thread is the emotional connection. Our brains are wired to form attachments, not just to people, but to the things that represent safety, love, and cherished experiences.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-having-a-teddy-bear">Benefits of having a teddy bear</h2>



<p>Studies show that a surprising percentage of adults still have their childhood teddy bears or other transitional objects tucked away somewhere. And it's not just nostalgia. These items can still provide a sense of comfort, reminding us we're not alone and that we've overcome challenges before.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotional-comfort-and-security">Emotional comfort and security</h3>



<p>Toys provide a sense of comfort and security for adults, much like they did in childhood. They can reduce anxiety and create a sense of peace during times of stress, loneliness, or sadness.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teddy-bears-connection-to-childhood">Teddy bears connection to childhood</h3>



<p>Teddy bears act as a tangible link to simpler times, offering a powerful sense of nostalgia and reminding us of positive memories and loved ones.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-relief-nbsp">Stress relief&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The soft, comforting touch of a teddy bear triggers the release of oxytocin and serotonin, boosting mood and combating stress.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-aid">Sleep aid</h3>



<p>The presence of a teddy bear can enhance sleep quality by creating a sense of safety and reducing nighttime anxieties.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-therapeutic-use">Therapeutic use</h3>



<p>In therapy settings, teddy bears can be comforting tools, facilitating conversations about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/understanding-memory-how-we-remember-traumatic-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">challenging topics</a> and helping individuals express emotions that may be difficult to verbalize.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-bonds">Social Bonds</h3>



<p>Whether given as a gift or treasured personally, teddy bears represent love and care, strengthening the bonds between adults and reminding them of cherished connections.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creative-inspiration">Creative inspiration</h3>



<p>Creatives, including artists and writers, sometimes find inspiration and comfort in the presence of teddy bears during their work.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-support-during-grief">Support during grief</h3>



<p>Teddy bears offer wordless companionship and solace during times of loss, illness, or significant life changes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoration-and-collectible-interest">Decoration and collectible interest</h3>



<p>Adults can find decorative enjoyment in teddy bears, and for some, collecting them – especially rare or sentimental ones – offers a rewarding and fulfilling hobby.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-your-teddy-bear-story">What's your teddy bear story?</h2>



<p>This research invites us to reflect on the transitional objects in our own lives. Think about your special childhood bear or object. Do you remember the day you got it? What adventures did you share? Do you still feel that special connection? </p>



<p>The study is a beautiful reminder of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/falling-love-health-benefits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">significance</a> objects can hold in our lives. Whether it's a scruffy teddy bear, a faded photograph, or something else entirely, those emotionally charged items offer a comfort that's uniquely ours. </p>



<p>They embody the power of memory, love, and the unwavering support we needed – and perhaps still need – along our journeys.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/17439760.2023.2170273">Journal of Positive Psychology</a>.</p>



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Why are teddy bears so special? It's an emotional connection

Did you have a special teddy bear as a kid?...

<p>Have you ever argued a point passionately, only to find yourself agreeing with the other side when the conversation ends? New research shows that even avatars in a virtual world can influence your opinions, particularly when it comes to judging right and wrong.</p>



<p>Scientists at <a href="https://english.swps.pl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SWPS University</a>, along with international collaborators, investigated a phenomenon called social influence. Simply put, it's the pressure we feel, consciously or not, to conform to the views of others within a group. </p>



<p>Social influence isn't limited to the real world; it appears our digital avatars can exert a similar force.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-avatars-and-social-influence">Avatars and social influence</h2>



<p>Avatars are simply those <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/digital-media-can-alter-our-visual-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digital</a> representations we create of ourselves in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-media-posts-are-not-a-good-representation-of-our-true-selves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">online world</a>. Think of them as your virtual stand-ins. </p>



<p>Social influence, on the other hand, is that often unconscious urge to fit in, to adopt the opinions and behaviors of the group. "We usually conform to the views of others for two reasons," explains <a href="https://english.swps.pl/konrad-bocian" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Konrad Bocian</a> from SWPS University. </p>



<p>"First, we succumb to group pressure and want to gain social acceptance. Second, we lack sufficient knowledge and perceive the group as a source of a better interpretation of the current situation."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-influence-in-the-real-vs-virtual-world">Influence in the real vs. virtual world</h2>



<p>The scientists conducted a two-part experiment. The study began by having participants judge morally ambiguous scenarios. Take the following example: a mother punishes her child for poor academic performance. </p>



<p>The participants offered their initial judgment privately. Then things got interesting.</p>



<p>In the second part of the study, researchers revealed how others had judged the exact same scenarios, often with starkly different perspectives. This is where the pressure to conform came into play. </p>



<p>Participants changed their original moral judgments to align with the group 43% of the time. But, when the situation involved harm, the likelihood of the social influence lessened. This indicated the participants boundary within moral conformity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-influence-of-virtual-reality">Social influence of virtual reality</h2>



<p>The second experiment introduced an entirely new dimension: virtual reality (VR). Participants donned VR headsets and were immersed in a simulated environment with three avatars. </p>



<p>Some of these avatars were controlled by real people while others were powered by artificial intelligence.</p>



<p>The shocking revelation? Whether the avatars were governed by a human mind or simply lines of code, the level of social influence remained surprisingly similar. Participants adjusted their judgments to match the virtual group nearly 30% of the time.</p>



<p>"The results suggest that judgments about moral behavior, like other judgments we make, are subject to pressure from both real and virtual groups," notes Dr. Bocian.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dangers-of-digital-reality">Dangers of digital reality </h2>



<p>"Today, social influence is increasingly as potent in the digital world as in the real world," Dr. Bocian points out. "Therefore, it is necessary to determine how our judgments are shaped in the digital reality, where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/digital-hugs-can-be-just-as-effective-as-physical-hugs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interactions</a> take place online, and some participants are avatars, not real humans."</p>



<p>This opens up a crucial discussion. In a world where we're spending increasing amounts of time in the metaverse and other virtual spaces, the distinction between the 'real' and the simulated is blurring.</p>



<p>"Group pressure to influence private moral judgments of individuals in a virtual world can be used for both good and malicious purposes," says Dr. Bocian. </p>



<p>"This is why understanding the mechanisms of this influence is so important. Only with in-depth knowledge can we increase the awareness of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/virtual-art-has-a-highly-positive-impact-on-mood-and-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">virtual</a> world participants about the influence that others can have on them."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-our-susceptibility-to-influence"> Our susceptibility to influence </h2>



<p>This research serves as a chilling wake-up call. While virtual worlds hold exciting potential for connection, innovation, and creativity, they also come with unique social traps. </p>



<p>The avatars we interact with, regardless of the intelligence behind them, possess an unsettling power to shape our thoughts and behaviors. </p>



<p>As we venture deeper into digital realms, keeping a watchful eye on our susceptibility to influence will be crucial in navigating these brave new worlds. It's vital not to underestimate this power. </p>



<p>Being aware of this potential for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/internet-addiction-where-do-you-fall-on-the-spectrum/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influence</a>, while simultaneously fostering critical thinking skills, will be key to developing a healthy relationship with the expanding virtual landscapes.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0298293">PLOS ONE</a>. </p>



<p>-----</p>



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Online avatars sway our morals through social influence

Have you ever argued a point passionately, only to find...

<p>Aging and social networks undergo significant transformations as individuals grow older, with a pronounced shift towards prioritizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aging-female-monkeys-focus-more-on-meaningful-relationships/">quality</a> over quantity in their social circles. This tendency to narrow down <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-connections-slow-brain-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">s</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-connections-slow-brain-aging/">ocial connections</a> is not exclusive to humans; it is also evident among our primate relatives, the macaques. </p>



<p>The phenomenon, as observed in Assamese macaques in Thailand by researchers from the <a href="https://www.dpz.eu/en/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">German Primate Center - Leibniz Institute for Primate Research</a> and the <a href="https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/1.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Göttingen</a>, provides insight into the biological foundations underlying our social behaviors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-social-aging-through-primate-studies">Understanding social aging through primate studies</h2>



<p>Over eight years, researchers studying female Assamese macaques observed a decline in social network size with age. Consequently, older females focused on a few close relationships and reduced broader interactions.</p>



<p>Baptiste Sadoughi, the study's lead author, emphasized the unique perspective gained from studying these females. Significantly, they remain in their natal groups for life. </p>



<p>Moreover, older macaques showed less social engagement, such as initiating contact or grooming. However, they stayed close to the group, likely for protection against predators. This behavior indicates a strategic shift in aging macaques' priorities, valuing proximity over active socializing.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-selectivity-among-assamese-macaques">Social selectivity among Assamese macaques </h2>



<p>Contrary to what might be expected, the research showed that selectivity in social partners among Assamese macaque females does not increase with age. </p>



<p>This constancy undermines the idea that a growing preference for certain social partners explains the age-related shrinkage of social networks. This finding suggests that while selectivity exists, it alone cannot account for the decline in social interactions as macaques age.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-longitudinal-data-in-aging-studies">The role of longitudinal data in aging studies</h2>



<p>The study highlights the value of longitudinal data in aging research. Professor Julia Ostner notes that the selective disappearance phenomenon complicates aging studies. </p>



<p>Less socially integrated individuals, who are more vulnerable to predation, tend to die earlier. This leaves a cohort of older, well-connected individuals. Long-term data helps differentiate true aging effects from demographic influences.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aging-and-social-networks-in-the-wild">Aging and social networks in the wild</h2>



<p>This research significantly enhances our understanding of aging in wild animals, challenging the traditional belief that they seldom show aging signs. Sadoughi points out that long-term studies are uncovering how wild animals face aging challenges, providing insights into their adaptations over time.</p>



<p>The study on Assamese macaques illuminates social aging's evolutionary roots and its parallels with humans, who also narrow their social networks with age. Examining our closest relatives offers profound insights into social aging's complexity and its impact on our social world.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about Assamese macaques</h2>



<p>Assamese macaques are a species of Old World monkey found predominantly in the hilly and forested regions of South and Southeast Asia.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Appearance</h3>



<p>With their robust build and distinctive appearance, they are known for their strong social bonds and complex behaviors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Their fur color varies from dark brown to gray with a somewhat lighter underbelly, and they have a prominent ridge of hair on their heads, which gives them a unique appearance among primates. These macaques have relatively short tails and show a range of facial expressions that are crucial for their social interactions.</p>



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



<p>They are highly adaptable, living in a variety of habitats including evergreen forests, deciduous habitats, and even areas close to human settlements, where they can sometimes be seen foraging for food.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This adaptability, however, also puts them at risk, as they are often subject to human-wildlife conflict, especially in areas where their natural habitats overlap with agricultural or urbanized areas.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Diet</h3>



<p>Assamese macaques are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, and they have a diet that includes fruits, leaves, seeds, and occasionally small animals and insects. Their foraging habits play a crucial role in forest ecology through seed dispersal, aiding in the regeneration of their habitats.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Social lives</h3>



<p>Socially, Assamese macaques live in multi-male, multi-female groups with a complex <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aging-populations-have-less-cohesive-social-networks/">social structure</a>. Dominance hierarchies exist within both males and females, influencing access to resources, mating opportunities, and social interactions within the group. </p>



<p>These macaques are known for their cooperative behavior, including collective defense against predators, grooming to maintain social bonds, and caring for the young of the group.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reproduction&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Reproduction in Assamese macaques does not follow a strict seasonal pattern, but births may peak at certain times of the year, depending on the geographical location and environmental conditions. Females usually give birth to a single offspring after a gestation period of about six months. </p>



<p>Offspring are cared for with great attention, and the social nature of their groups allows young macaques to learn important survival and social skills from not only their mothers but also other members of the group.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Conservation</h3>



<p>Conservation efforts for Assamese macaques are ongoing, as they face threats from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deforestation-changes-social-behavior-in-monkeys/">habitat destruction</a>, hunting, and the illegal wildlife trade. </p>



<p>Their status varies by location, but overall, they are considered to be facing a decline in population, prompting efforts to protect their natural habitats and ensure their survival for future generations.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2023.2736" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a></em>.</p>



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Assamese macaques show how aging affects our social networks

Aging and social networks undergo significant transformations as individuals grow...

<p>A new study reveals that a particular mode of thought, historically recognized as a hallmark of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/habitual-social-media-checking-affects-adolescent-brain-development/">adolescent</a> development, may actually facilitate growth in teenagers' brains.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Termed "transcendent thinking" by the researchers, this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thinking-beyond-healthier-decisions/">cognitive process</a> extends beyond immediate, tangible aspects of social scenarios to encompass wider ethical, systemic, and personal dimensions. It entails delving into the deeper meanings, historical backgrounds, civic relevance, and foundational concepts within situations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-adolescent-brain-development">Understanding adolescent brain development</h2>



<p>The study, which makes a significant advancement in understanding adolescent brain development, was led by Professor Mary Helen Immordino-Yang of <a href="https://rossier.usc.edu/">USC Rossier</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team included other members such as Rebecca J.M. Gotlieb, a research scientist at the <a href="https://www.ucla.edu/">University of California, Los Angeles</a> (UCLA), and Xiao-Fei Yang, an assistant research professor at USC Rossier.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transcendent-thinking-coordinates-brain-networks">Transcendent thinking coordinates brain networks</h2>



<p>Previously, Immordino-Yang and her team had established that transcendent thinking in teens and adults activates a comprehensive coordination among various <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fear-and-anxiety-share-a-common-network-in-the-brain/">brain networks</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This coordination involves crucial networks like the executive control network, which oversees goal-oriented and focused thought processes, and the default mode network, engaged during contemplative thoughts that surpass the immediate environment, such as reminiscing, future planning, experiencing profound emotions, daydreaming, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/creative-thinking-skills-help-children-overcome-real-life-problems/">creative thinking</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-at-life-from-someone-else-s-perspective">Looking at life from someone else's perspective</h2>



<p>The researchers conducted confidential interviews with 65 high school students aged 14-18. The experts explored their responses to real-world stories involving other students around the world, probing into the emotions and insights these stories elicited.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Following the interviews, participants underwent fMRI brain scans initially and then a follow-up scan two years later, with additional follow-ups as they transitioned into their early twenties.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-universal-capacity-for-transcendent-thinking">Universal capacity for transcendent thinking</h2>



<p>The investigation revealed a universal capacity among teens to engage in transcendent thought, albeit to varying extents. Crucially, the frequency of such thought was linked to significant brain network coordination over the subsequent two years, independent of IQ or socioeconomic status.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This progression in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/habitual-social-media-checking-affects-adolescent-brain-development/">brain development</a> was predictive of key milestones like identity formation in late adolescence and overall life satisfaction in early adulthood.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transcendent-thinking-and-brain-growth">Transcendent thinking and brain growth</h2>



<p>Highlighting the unique impact of transcendent thought on brain maturation, the study suggests that this form of thinking fosters growth by necessitating the integration of networks responsible for concentrated, deliberate thought and those facilitating introspection and creative ideation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As Immordino-Yang argues, transcendent thinking may assist in brain growth since it requires coordinating brain networks involved in effortful, focused thinking, such the executive control network, with those involved in internal reflection and free-form thinking, like the default mode network.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proactive-role-in-shaping-brain-development">Proactive role in shaping brain development</h2>



<p>This discovery not only provides insight into adolescent brain development but also holds significant implications for educational approaches and mental health interventions during this critical developmental phase.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Immordino-Yang stresses the transformative potential of incorporating civically oriented educational methods that resonate with adolescents' innate drive to understand complex perspectives and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/27-different-human-emotions/">emotions</a> in relation to societal and personal issues.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This approach underscores the proactive role teenagers play in shaping their brain development through the interpretive lens they apply to their social environment.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1038091" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Scientific Reports</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<p>-----</p>



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Transcendent thinking promotes brain growth in adolescents

A new study reveals that a particular mode of thought,...

<p>Snow isn't just for winter fun – it's a massive natural reservoir that supplies our water long after the slopes clear. But, a new study from <a href="https://oregonstate.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a> reveals a concerning trend: snow water storage in mountain snowpacks has significantly declined in recent decades across the lower 48 states.</p>



<p>Snow water storage refers to the amount of water contained within snowpacks, which are accumulations of snow that build up in colder climates during the winter months. The current trend could have wide-ranging consequences for our overall approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-supply-from-icy-mountains-will-become-less-reliable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">managing water resources</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-snowpacks-melting">Snowpacks melting</h2>



<p>During the cold months, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-driven-climate-change-is-to-blame-for-sharp-snowpack-declines-since-1980/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snowpacks</a> accumulate snow, which compactly stores water as ice. As temperatures rise in spring and summer, these snowpacks gradually release water. This meltwater flows into rivers and reservoirs, replenishing supplies that are critical for drinking, irrigation, and supporting aquatic ecosystems. </p>



<p>This process is crucial for regions relying on seasonal snowmelt as their main water source. In the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spring-heatwaves-deplete-the-water-supply-in-the-western-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">western United States</a>, it greatly affects water availability for millions of people, as well as for orchards and vineyards.</p>



<p>However, accurately measuring the water content of snowpacks presents a considerable challenge. Traditional methods often provide only snapshots in time or have limited spatial coverage, making it difficult to assess the overall amount of water stored and released throughout the season. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-snow-water-storage">Snow water storage</h2>



<p>To address current challenges, Professor David Hill and doctoral student Christina Aragon have developed a new metric, termed "snow water storage," which offers an accurate assessment of the water stored in snowpacks.</p>



<p>“Unlike other widely used metrics that capture snow variables at a single point in time, like maximum snow water equivalent, or describe snow characteristics in terms of time, such as length of snow season, snow water storage is applicable at numerous time and space scales,” explained Hill. </p>



<p>“It’s really just a cumulative sum, not a maximum value; it’s like adding up the number of miles you drive in a given year, rather than just thinking about the 500 you did on one day for your road trip.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-findings-from-snow-water-storage">Findings from snow water storage</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blowing-snow-plays-an-important-role-in-arctic-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snow</a> water storage highlights a troubling 22% decrease in the annual water stored within mountain snowpacks across the lower 48 states of the U.S. This insight into the depletion of natural water reserves in mountain areas is alarmingly significant.</p>



<p>Mountains play a pivotal role in water storage. Their geographical and climatic conditions allow <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-sea-ice-is-currently-the-lowest-ever-recorded/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snow</a> to accumulate during winter months, acting as a natural reservoir that slowly releases water as it melts. </p>



<p>The researchers revealed that 72% of snow water storage is concentrated in mountains—areas that account for just 16% of the land in the lower 48 states. This highlights their outsized importance in the nation's water supply system.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-climate-change">Role of climate change</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ski-resorts-face-snow-scarcity-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate change</a> is wreaking havoc on snowpack water storage. It is disrupting the delicate balance between the quantity and timing of water released from these natural reservoirs. </p>



<p>As global temperatures climb, many regions are experiencing earlier <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-ice-rising-sea-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snowmelt</a>, reduced snowfall, and skyrocketing evaporation rates. This translates to less water being stored in snow, throwing the traditional patterns of water availability. </p>



<p>These disruptions pose significant challenges for water management. New strategies are urgently needed to ensure a sustainable supply in the face of a more variable climate.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-there-s-a-silver-lining">There's a silver lining</h2>



<p>Despite the challenges, there's reason for optimism. “As we move forward, and as we have moved from the past to the present, the relatively good news is that annual precipitation amounts tend to not change that dramatically,” Hill said. </p>



<p>“However, changing temperatures greatly influence snow storage and therefore the timing of water availability.” This suggests that, with the right tools and strategies, we can adapt and secure a sustainable water future.</p>



<p>The work by Oregon State University researchers offers a powerful new tool and a renewed sense of hope. By understanding the vital role snowpacks play in our ecosystem, we can develop adaptive strategies to meet these challenges head-on. </p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.5194/hess-28-781-2024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hydrology and Earth System Sciences</a>. </p>



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<p>‌</p>

Climate change drastically lowers snow's water storage capacity

Snow isn't just for winter fun – it's a massive...

<p>Extremophiles and the search for alien life are at the forefront of scientific exploration as researchers delve into Earth's most inhospitable environments. </p>



<p>Thriving in extremes from deep-sea trenches to mountaintops, these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-in-the-extreme-microbial-activity-discovered-in-old-faithful/">microorganisms</a>, known as extremophiles, flourish where most life cannot. Their adaptability not only sheds light on life on Earth but also aids in the search for life beyond it.</p>



<p>A notable advancement was reported in the American Chemical Society’s <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.jproteome.3c00538" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Proteome Research</a>, where researchers have introduced a new method for identifying extremophiles. </p>



<p>By focusing on protein fragments rather than genetic analysis, this approach has identified two new bacteria species in Chile's high-altitude lakes, mirroring conditions found on early Mars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-challenge-of-identifying-extremophiles">The challenge of identifying extremophiles</h2>



<p>Traditionally, microorganism identification has depended on gene sequencing to match DNA with known sequences. This method struggles, especially with closely related extremophiles, missing subtle differences and leaving gaps in knowledge.</p>



<p>To overcome this, Ralf Moeller and his team turned to the high-altitude Andean lakes, over 2.3 miles above sea level, far exceeding Denver's elevation. </p>



<p>Collecting water samples, the researchers cultivated 66 microbes to test their hypothesis: Can the new proteotyping technique, which analyzes protein fragments, outperform traditional gene sequencing in accurately identifying these microorganisms?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proteotyping-a-new-frontier-in-microbial-identification">Proteotyping: a new frontier in microbial identification</h2>



<p>Proteotyping examines protein fragments, or peptides, thereby creating unique signatures for each microorganism. Subsequently, these signatures are matched against proteome databases for identification. </p>



<p>Through this innovative approach, the researchers were able to identify 63 out of 66 microorganisms. Notably, this method unveiled two potentially new extremophile bacteria types that had eluded detection by gene sequencing.</p>



<p>Consequently, this success underscores proteotyping's potential as a superior tool for identifying extremophiles from small samples. Moreover, its precision in detecting unique protein signatures offers a novel perspective on the diversity of life in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-leaving-behind-microbes-on-mount-everest/">extreme environments</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-search-for-extraterrestrial-life">The search for extraterrestrial life</h2>



<p>This research has profound implications beyond Earth, offering a critical tool for seeking life on other planets through protein fragment identification. It unveils new avenues for discovering and understanding potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shock-discovery-saturns-moon-enceladus-has-all-of-the-ingredients-necessary-for-life/">extraterrestrial life</a> that might not rely on DNA-based biology.</p>



<p>Additionally, it deepens our grasp of Earth's biodiversity, revealing the adaptability and resilience of life through the study of extremophiles. This knowledge expands our understanding of life's limits and the conditions that support its existence.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-milestone-in-extremophile-research">A milestone in extremophile research</h2>



<p>The identification of two new bacteria species in Chile's high-altitude lakes is a landmark in extremophile research. This discovery expands our biological knowledge and refines our exploratory methods. </p>



<p>Through advancements in techniques such as proteotyping, we're approaching answers to profound questions about life in the universe and the remarkable adaptability of organisms. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about extremophiles&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Extremophiles are fascinating organisms that thrive in environments once thought to be uninhabitable for life. </p>



<p>These environments feature <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/underwater-volcanic-eruptions-are-more-harmful-than-previously-believed/">extreme conditions</a>, such as very high or low temperatures, high levels of radiation, extreme pressures, or highly acidic or alkaline conditions. </p>



<p>Extremophiles are not just limited to bacteria and archaea; some fungi, plants, and animals also exhibit extremophilic behaviors.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Types of extremophiles&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Extremophiles are categorized based on the extreme conditions they can endure. Thermophiles thrive in high temperatures, often found in hot springs and hydrothermal vents, while psychrophiles prefer the icy conditions of polar regions and deep ocean waters.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Acidophiles live in highly acidic environments, whereas alkaliphiles are found in high pH conditions. Halophiles require high concentrations of salt to survive, common in salt flats and brine pools.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Piezophiles, also known as barophiles, can withstand the immense pressures found in deep-sea environments.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Practical implications&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The study of extremophiles is not just a curiosity; it has practical implications for biotechnology, medicine, and the search for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-search-for-signs-of-life-on-mars-continues/">extraterrestrial life</a>. </p>



<p>Enzymes from extremophiles, for example, have been used in industrial processes, including the production of biofuels and in bioremediation efforts to clean up pollutants.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Life beyond Earth&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The ability of extremophiles to survive in conditions similar to those found on other planets and moons has also led scientists to consider them as models for life beyond Earth, shaping our understanding of astrobiology and the potential habitability of other worlds in our solar system and beyond.</p>



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Extremophiles and the quest for alien life

Extremophiles and the search for alien life are at the...

<p>Leatherback sea turtle behaviors in the Northwest Atlantic shelf have been illuminated through a pivotal study conducted by marine scientists at the University of Miami <a href="https://www.earth.miami.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Science</a> and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Southeast Fisheries Science Center. </p>



<p>The research provides a detailed map of the migration and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/leatherback-sea-turtles-where-the-worlds-largest-turtles-go-to-eat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">foraging habits </a>of these majestic creatures along the U.S. coastline. The findings introduce new insights that challenge previous understandings and emphasize the urgent need for targeted conservation efforts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-understanding-of-leatherback-movements">A new understanding of leatherback movements</h2>



<p>Historically, researchers recognized that leatherback turtles migrate from the warmer South and Mid-Atlantic Bights to the food-rich waters near New England and Nova Scotia during the summer. They return south as winter approaches. However, the specifics of their journey and activities remained largely unknown.</p>



<p>Mitchell Rider is a research scientist at Rosenstiel School’s NOAA Cooperative Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Studies and lead author of the study. </p>



<p>"Our findings signify a paradigm shift in understanding leatherback turtle behavior along the U.S. coastline," said Rider. "By highlighting key foraging grounds and migration patterns, we aim to inform targeted conservation strategies to safeguard the future of these magnificent creatures."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-journey-of-the-leatherback-turtle-revealed">The journey of the leatherback turtle revealed</h2>



<p>Using advanced satellite tags, the researchers tracked the movements of 52 leatherback sea turtles from 2017 to 2022. These tags, attached to turtles off the coasts of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and Beaufort, North Carolina, provided valuable data on location, depth, and water temperature. </p>



<p>The tagging and monitoring effort unveiled significant activity off Cape Cod and Nantucket. Here, leatherbacks feast on the abundant jellyfish present in late summer and early fall. Similarly, signs of feeding behavior in the Mid-Atlantic Bight mark it as a crucial foraging area. However, further research is needed to pinpoint the turtles' exact diet.</p>



<p>Researchers have identified the South Atlantic Bight as a versatile habitat. It supports various stages of the leatherback's migration cycle, including nesting and overwintering. Observations of feeding behavior along the continental shelf ridge further highlight this area's significance.</p>



<p>Consequently, this research reveals an extensive utilization of the U.S. coastline by leatherbacks. This is particularly true within the Mid-Atlantic Bight, South Atlantic Bight, and Southern New England regions.</p>



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



<p>"A key finding was further defining the Mid-Atlantic Bight as a critical foraging ground for leatherbacks from past studies, identified through sophisticated behavioral analysis," said Rider. </p>



<p>"This study provides a comprehensive understanding of leatherback behaviors that distinguishes between their migration and foraging activities.” </p>



<p>Moreover, the research underlines the leatherbacks’ vulnerability to threats such as incidental capture by fisheries and vessel strikes. With offshore wind farms developing in critical regions, these findings provide invaluable guidance.</p>



<p>The groundbreaking study advances our knowledge of leatherback sea turtles' migration and foraging patterns, shaping future conservation strategies. Furthermore, the study paves the way for more effective protection of critical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-level-rise-threatens-turtle-breeding-grounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitats</a> such as nesting beaches. </p>



<p>Conservation efforts are underway globally to protect these ancient mariners, including the implementation of fishing gear modifications to reduce bycatch. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about leatherback sea turtles</h2>



<p>Leatherback sea turtles are remarkable creatures, distinguished from other sea turtles by their lack of a bony shell. Instead, they possess a unique, leathery skin overlaying bony plates, which gives them their name. They are the largest of all living turtles and can grow up to two meters in length and weigh as much as 900 kilograms.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Migration&nbsp;</h3>



<p>These turtles are highly migratory, undertaking vast journeys across oceans to feed on their preferred prey, jellyfish. Their ability to regulate their body temperature allows them to thrive in colder waters, a rarity among reptiles.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Special adaptation&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Leatherbacks have a special adaptation in their throat, a series of backward-pointing spines, to help them swallow slippery jellyfish and prevent their prey from escaping once caught.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reproduction&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Reproduction is a fascinating aspect of their life cycle. Females return to the beaches where they were born, every two to three years, to lay their eggs in the sand.&nbsp;</p>



<p>They dig nests with their flippers, deposit their eggs, and then cover them before returning to the sea. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-leatherbacks-are-blind-to-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hatchlings</a> emerge after about two months and make their perilous journey to the ocean, facing numerous predators along the way.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Significant threats&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Despite their awe-inspiring nature, leatherback sea turtles face significant threats from human activities. They are vulnerable to bycatch in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/finding-tangled-leatherbacks-is-crucial-for-their-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing gear</a>, plastic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hundreds-of-plastic-items-found-in-deceased-sea-turtles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a>, and the harvesting of their eggs from nesting beaches. Climate change also poses a threat, as it affects their nesting sites and the availability of their jellyfish prey. </p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2024.1325139/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Marine Science</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Tracking leatherback sea turtle migration along the U.S. coast

Leatherback sea turtle behaviors in the Northwest Atlantic shelf have...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that scientists never expected.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-waters-beneath-ancient-craters">Hidden waters beneath ancient craters</h2>



<p>Scientists have made a startling discovery that challenges everything we thought we knew about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturn-moon-mimas-has-remarkably-young-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saturn's moon Mimas</a>. Beneath the heavily cratered surface that earned it the nickname "Death Star" lies a global ocean that formed just 5 to 15 million years ago—a remarkably young age by cosmic standards.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cassini-data-reveals-orbital-secrets">Cassini data reveals orbital secrets</h2>



<p>The discovery, led by Dr. Valéry Lainey of the <a href="https://observatoiredeparis.psl.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Observatoire de Paris</a>, emerged from careful analysis of <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>'s Cassini spacecraft data. By studying subtle irregularities in Mimas's orbit around Saturn, researchers detected the gravitational signature of liquid water hidden 20 to 30 kilometers beneath the moon's icy shell.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unlikely-ocean-world">An unlikely ocean world</h2>



<p>At only 400 kilometers in diameter, Mimas seemed like the least likely candidate to harbor a subsurface ocean. Unlike other ocean moons such as Europa and Enceladus, which show clear surface signs of internal activity, Mimas displays no obvious hints of the liquid water beneath its ancient, crater-scarred exterior.</p>



<p>"Mimas is a small moon, and its heavily cratered surface gave no hint of the hidden ocean beneath," explained Dr. Nick Cooper from <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a>, a study co-author.</p>



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



<p>The ocean's recent formation makes Mimas a prime target for studying how oceans develop and potentially support life. This discovery adds another member to the exclusive club of ocean worlds in our solar system, each offering unique insights into the conditions necessary for habitability.</p>



<p>The research, published in <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a></em> journal, demonstrates how advanced orbital analysis can reveal hidden features of celestial bodies, opening new possibilities for understanding ocean formation throughout the cosmos.</p>



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Scientists discover unexpected young ocean on Saturn's cratered moon Mimas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ 'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that...

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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

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>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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."</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>The forest was remarkably diverse. Scientists identified <em>Eospermatopteris</em>, 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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em>Current Biology</em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.</p>



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<p>-----</p>

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>



<p>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?</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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



<p><strong>Sources:</strong> <em>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.</em></p>



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



<p><strong>1. Is acid rain completely gone?</strong> 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.</p>



<p><strong>2. How long did solving take?</strong> 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.</p>



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



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



<p><strong>5. Could acid rain return?</strong> 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.</p>



<p><strong>6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"?</strong> 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></p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



<p>-----</p>

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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<p></p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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. </p>



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>-----</p>

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



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

<p>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. </p>



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



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https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



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



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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).</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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>.</p>

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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?</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ACS Reactions</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

How does salt makes things taste better?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>'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)."</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>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.</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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."</p>



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



<p><em>Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



<p>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."</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



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



<p>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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>"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;</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Goddard</em></p>



<p><em>Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and Leah Hustak (STScI)</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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