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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

A comprehensive study involving over 25,000 dogs across 238 breeds in the United States has uncovered significant links between the size of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-body-positions-that-indicate-your-dog-is-in-pain/">dog</a> and its risk for various health conditions.&nbsp;



Conducted by Yunbi Nam and colleagues from the <a href="https://www.washington.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Washington</a>, the study marks a significant step in understanding why smaller dogs generally have a longer lifespan compared to their larger counterparts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dog-aging-project">The Dog Aging Project</h2>



"Age in dogs is associated with the risk of many diseases, and canine size is a major factor in that risk. However, the size patterns are complex. While small size dogs tend to live longer, some diseases are more prevalent among small dogs," noted the researchers.



"In this study we seek to quantify how the pattern of disease history varies across the spectrum of dog size, dog age, and their interaction."



To investigate, the experts analyzed data from 27,541 dogs, part of the ongoing Dog Aging Project. This extensive dataset allowed for a comprehensive view of how size impacts health risks across a dog's life.



"The Dog Aging Project (DAP) provides a unique opportunity to investigate how the lifetime prevalence of different conditions varies across age and size in a large community-based population of companion dogs," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"Additionally, we explore whether the adjustment for the dog’s sex, breed status (purebred vs. mixed-breed status), and the census division defined by the dog’s residence address impacts this relationship."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings-about-dog-size">Key findings about dog size</h2>



The results of the study indicate that large dogs are more prone to suffer from certain health conditions such as cancer, bone-related diseases, and gastrointestinal issues. 



Bigger dogs were also found to be more likely to have problems related to ears, nose, and throat; neurological and endocrine conditions; and infectious diseases.&nbsp;



On the other hand, smaller dogs tend to be more susceptible to diseases affecting the eyes, heart, liver, pancreas, and respiratory system.&nbsp;



Furthermore, the prevalence of kidney and urinary diseases did not show a significant difference between large and small dogs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-groundbreaking-approach-nbsp">Groundbreaking approach&nbsp;</h2>



The study is groundbreaking in its approach to understanding how risks for various health conditions vary with the size of the dog throughout its lifespan.&nbsp;



Notably, the researchers found distinct patterns of risk associated with various diseases such as cancer, ocular, cardiac, orthopedic, and ear/nose/throat conditions, depending on the dog's size.



Even after accounting for variables such as the dog's sex, living environment, and whether they were purebred or mixed-breed, the clear link between size and disease risk remained evident.



The experts said their results provide insights into the disease categories that may contribute to reduced lifespan in larger dogs and suggest multiple avenues for further exploration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dog-size-study-strengths-and-limitations">Dog size study strengths and limitations </h2>



"Our study has several strengths and limitations that should be noted. Strengths include the large sample size of this study, which allows us to estimate patterns with high power across the whole age and size spectrum," wrote the researchers.



"Additionally, we have a very diverse sample of dogs distributed across the entire United States. Since the sample is not veterinary-hospital or clinic-based it may be more representative of the general population of dogs."&nbsp;



"Conversely, while our observations can suggest which conditions manifest differently across age and size, they do not prove any causal relationships due to the cross-sectional nature of the analysis. Over time, longitudinal data will be collected on these dogs, and we will be able to examine disease incidence."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0295840" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



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Dog size is directly linked to different types of disease

A comprehensive study involving over 25,000 dogs across 238 breeds...

A series of studies has revealed that daily multivitamins could play a crucial role in improving memory and slowing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-can-prevent-brain-aging-and-cognitive-decline/">cognitive aging</a> in older adults.&nbsp;



This revelation comes at a critical time, as the Alzheimer’s Association predicts that by 2060, nearly a quarter of Americans will be at an increased risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmos-trials">COSMOS trials</h2>



The COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS), led by experts at <a href="https://www.massgeneralbrigham.org/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mass General Brigham</a>, has been at the forefront of this research. COSMOS is a comprehensive, nationwide trial that examines the effects of cocoa extract and multivitamin supplements.



Significantly, this is the third study from COSMOS to indicate the positive impact of daily multivitamins on cognition. The results revealed consistent benefits for memory as well.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitive-decline-nbsp">Cognitive decline&nbsp;</h2>



Chirag Vyas, the study's first author and an instructor in the Massachusetts General Hospital Department of Psychiatry, emphasized the importance of these findings.



“Cognitive decline is among the top health concerns for most older adults, and a daily supplement of multivitamins has the potential as an appealing and accessible approach to slow cognitive aging,” said Vyas.



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



The latest study involved detailed, in-person cognitive assessments of 573 participants, known as the COSMOS-Clinic subset.&nbsp;



In conjunction with two earlier studies that utilized telephone-based and online web-based cognitive assessments, the researchers found modest benefits for global cognition over two years, with a significant impact on episodic memory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strong-evidence-nbsp">Strong evidence&nbsp;</h2>



A meta-analysis combining data from all three studies, with 5,000 non-overlapping COSMOS participants, revealed strong evidence of benefits for both global cognition and episodic memory. The researchers estimated that daily multivitamin usage could slow global cognitive aging by as much as two years.



“The meta-analysis of three separate cognition studies provides strong and consistent evidence that taking a daily multivitamin, containing more than 20 essential micronutrients, helps prevent memory loss and slow down cognitive aging," said Vyas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-significance-nbsp">Study significance&nbsp;</h2>



Senior author Dr. Olivia Okereke highlighted the significance of the research for older adults concerned about brain health.&nbsp;



“These findings will garner attention among many older adults who are, understandably, very interested in ways to preserve brain health, as they provide evidence for the role of a daily multivitamin in supporting better cognitive aging," said Dr. Okereke.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exciting-results">Exciting results</h2>



The overall COSMOS project is led by Dr. JoAnn Manson and Howard Sesso, both of Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH).&nbsp;&nbsp;



“The finding that a daily multivitamin improved memory and slowed cognitive aging in three separate placebo-controlled studies in COSMOS is exciting and further supports the promise of multivitamins as a safe, accessible and affordable approach to protecting cognitive health in older adults," said Dr. Manson.



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



“With these three studies using different approaches for assessing cognition in COSMOS, each providing support for a daily multivitamin, it is now critical to understand the mechanisms by which a daily multivitamin may protect against memory loss and cognitive decline with a focus on nutritional status and other aging-related factors," said Sesso.



"For example, the modifying role of baseline nutritional status on protecting against cognitive decline has been shown for the COSMOS cocoa extract intervention. A typical multivitamin such as that tested in COSMOS contains many essential vitamins and minerals that could explain its potential benefits.”



The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ajcnut.2023.12.011" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Journal of Clinical Nutrition</a>. 



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Daily multivitamins slow cognitive aging and improve memory

A series of studies has revealed that daily multivitamins could...

Wolf,Spider,On,Leaf

In the animal kingdom, the impact of environmental factors on communication and survival is a subject of endless fascination. A recent study by the <a href="https://www.uc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cincinnati</a> reveals a unique aspect of this interaction, focusing on wolf spiders and its struggle with rain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mating-season-wolf-spiders-and-rain">Mating season, wolf spiders, and rain</h2>



Wolf <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spiders-turn-to-cannibalism-when-food-sources-are-limited/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiders</a>, a species found throughout the United States, have a unique way of communicating and sensing danger. 



They lack ears but use specialized organs in their eight legs to sense vibrations. This form of communication becomes particularly challenging in wet conditions. 



The study revealed that rain-soaked leaves significantly hamper the spiders' ability to signal each other and perceive threats from predators, such as predatory birds, compared to dry leaves.



The timing of this struggle is crucial. Spring, the mating season for wolf <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wolf-spiders-color-green/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiders</a>, coincides with the nesting season of birds like blue jays. 



These birds, feeding spiders to their offspring due to the high taurine content beneficial for brain development, pose a significant threat to the spiders, especially males engaging in courtship rituals. 



Male wolf <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-wolf-spiders-perform-elaborate-dances-to-woo-females/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiders</a> attract mates by drumming their furry front legs on leaves, a display that is less effective and more dangerous on wet leaves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-camouflage-and-adaptive-behaviors">Camouflage and adaptive behaviors</h2>



Professor George Uetz, the lead author of the study, explains that the camouflage abilities of these striped black and brown spiders are remarkable, especially when they remain motionless. 



However, this strategy has its limitations. 



“Birds preferentially feed spiders to their offspring because spiders have 50 times the amount of taurine than insects,” Uetz said. 



“And taurine is critical for the development of the hippocampus of nestlings’ brains. The hippocampus is associated with spatial memory, which is really important for birds.”



The study also highlighted the spiders' adaptive behavior in response to changing conditions. Despite the challenges posed by wet leaves, male wolf spiders didn't shy away from courting in the rain. 



Instead, they increased their visual signaling to compensate for the reduced effectiveness of vibratory communication. 



“If they remain still, they just disappear,” Utz said. “Like lots of predators, blue jays are visually oriented. They’re very visually acute. For them, movement really is the key.”



Interestingly, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/interesting-fact-hungry-spiders-lose-their-eyesight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiders</a> that could utilize dry leaves for communication had greater mating success.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-implications-and-climate-change">Ecological implications and climate change</h2>



The implications of this study extend beyond the immediate struggles that wolf <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-pest-control-tree-species-diversity-increases-spider-density/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiders</a> have when it rains.



With climate change bringing about more frequent and prolonged spring rains, these spiders face increasing ecological challenges. 



“Spring is coming a little earlier. What we’re seeing is there’s a shift in the life cycle of the spiders,” Uetz points out. 



“If global warming shifts the annual life cycle of the spiders, that will push them out of synchrony with the nesting season of the birds, which is more closely tied to daylight cues.”



Rachel Gilbert, a UC graduate and co-author of the study, emphasizes the broader significance of these findings. 



“Spiders are very important to local ecosystems, both as a predator of insects and as a major food source to larger animals like birds,” she says, suggesting that spiders can serve as important indicators of environmental change.



In summary, this research provides insightful revelations about how environmental changes, particularly rainfall, impact the communication, mating success, and survival strategies of wolf spiders. 



It also underscores the broader ecological implications, emphasizing the interconnectedness of species and the potential effects of climate change on these delicate balances.



The study was published in the <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10905-023-09843-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Insect Behavior</a>.



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Wolf spiders hate the rain and change their mating strategies when it showers

In the animal kingdom, the impact of environmental factors on...

The world's largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/iceberg-that-weighs-more-than-the-eiffel-tower-is-floating-freely/">iceberg</a>, A23a, is undergoing significant erosion and transformation as it moves away from Antarctica. Captured in new photos and videos, the iceberg, measuring 1,540 square miles, is being reshaped by ocean waters, forming caves and arches.&nbsp;



The erosive process, similar to coastal land erosion, is accelerated by waves crashing against the iceberg, gradually enlarging gaps until the top layers collapse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mind-boggling-size">Mind-boggling size</h2>



<a href="https://www.eyos-expeditions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EYOS Expeditions</a>, who recently visited iceberg A23a, deployed a drone for aerial photography. Expedition leader Ian Strachan described the scene, thusly. 



"We saw waves, a good three meters or four meters high, smashing into the berg... These were creating cascades of ice – a constant state of erosion." 



"It's mind-bogglingly big and stretches as far as you can see in both directions... It's certainly too big to photograph," added videographer Richard Sidey.



The erosion process involves powerful waves hitting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a23a-worlds-largest-iceberg-is-moving-after-30-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iceberg's base</a>, creating small gaps that eventually widen into caves and arches, leading to the collapse of the 'roof' or the top ice layer. This leaves behind smaller stacks that eventually melt away.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-impact-of-iceberg-a23a">Potential impact of iceberg A23a</h2>



A23a, grounded to the ocean floor for 30 years, is now drifting northwards due to wind and ocean currents. 



The <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Antarctic Survey</a> (BAS) revealed that the iceberg is moving at about 30 miles per day and may enter "iceberg alley" towards South Georgia. 



According to a BAS spokesperson, "it depends on its trajectory, but there is potential for impact to wildlife if it approaches any of the sub-Antarctic islands."



Originally part of the Filchner Ice Shelf, A23a became stationary after grounding, a phenomenon that occurs when an iceberg's keel is deeper than the water's depth. 



Scientists noted its movement in November, with the iceberg now on a northward journey. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-title-of-world-s-largest-iceberg">The title of world's largest iceberg</h2>



Despite its current title as the world's largest iceberg, this status is temporary, as icebergs inevitably fragment. 



The previous largest iceberg, A76, detached from the Weddell Sea ice shelf in May 2021 but has since broken into three pieces.



One of the most notable was Iceberg A-68, which calved from the Larsen C Ice Shelf in Antarctica in July 2017. 



At the time of its calving, A-68 was one of the largest ever recorded, measuring about 5,800 square kilometers (2,240 square miles) in area, roughly the size of Delaware or the island of Trinidad.



Over time, these massive icebergs break into smaller pieces and eventually melt. Satellite imagery and tracking have been crucial in monitoring their movements and changes, providing valuable data for understanding the dynamics of polar regions in the context of climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-iceberg-a23a">More about iceberg A23a</h2>



In the vast, frigid waters of the Southern Ocean, Iceberg A23a stands as a monumental testament to nature's grandeur and the dynamic processes shaping our planet. 



As discussed above, this massive iceberg, once part of Antarctica's sprawling ice shelf, embarked on an extraordinary journey that captures the attention of scientists and the public alike.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-origins-and-discovery">Origins and discovery</h3>



Iceberg A23a broke away from the Filchner-Ronne Ice Shelf, a significant section of the Antarctic ice sheet. Its calving, a natural part of the ice shelf's life cycle, was a spectacle of nature's power. 



The moment it separated, A23a became an independent entity, charting a course through the world's southernmost waters.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-iceberg-a23a-size-and-structure">Iceberg A23a size and structure</h3>



Measuring over a hundred kilometers in length and breadth, A23a is comparable in size to major global cities, dwarfing most other icebergs. 



Its towering walls of ice rise majestically, while the bulk of its mass, like that of all icebergs, remains hidden underwater. 



This colossal size makes A23a a subject of fascination and a vital piece in understanding the Earth's cryosphere.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-the-environment">Impact on the environment</h3>



As A23a drifts, it influences the oceanic currents and the marine ecosystem. The iceberg's immense size acts as a floating barrier, redirecting water flows and potentially altering weather patterns. 



Moreover, its gradual melting process releases vast amounts of freshwater, impacting the salinity of the surrounding ocean, which can have far-reaching effects on marine life.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-significance">Scientific significance</h3>



The journey of A23a provides a unique opportunity for research. Scientists employ satellites, drones, and ship-based observations to track its movement and study its impact. 



This research offers insights into the behavior of icebergs and the broader implications for global climate patterns. The data gathered helps refine models predicting the response of polar regions to climate change.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-iceberg-a23a-and-climate-change">Iceberg A23a and climate change</h3>



The story of A23a is intrinsically linked to the narrative of global warming. The increasing rate of iceberg calving in Antarctica raises concerns about the stability of ice shelves and the potential for accelerated sea-level rise. 



A23a's voyage is a vivid, tangible example of these changes. While its contribution to sea-level rise is minimal compared to glacial meltwater, it symbolizes the larger, more pressing issue of our warming planet.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-and-social-impact-of-iceberg-a23a">Cultural and social impact of iceberg A23a</h3>



Beyond its scientific importance, A23a has captured the public's imagination. It represents the remote and wild beauty of the Antarctic region and serves as a powerful symbol of the natural world's scale and mystery. 



In a world increasingly concerned with environmental issues, A23a's journey is a reminder of the need for stewardship and understanding of our planet's delicate ecosystems.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symbol-of-change-and-discovery">Symbol of change and discovery</h3>



As Iceberg A23a continues its solitary voyage, it remains a subject of awe and study. It stands as a stark reminder of the Earth's changing climate and the urgent need to understand and protect our planet's polar regions. 



In summary, the story of A23a is not just about a massive chunk of ice. The takeaway here is the interconnectedness of our global environment and the shared responsibility we hold in safeguarding it for future generations.



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World’s largest iceberg, A23a, is adrift and seeing major erosion and melting

The world's largest iceberg, A23a, is undergoing significant erosion and...

A recent study led by the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Davis</a> and published in the <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/nafm.10959" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North American Journal of Fisheries Management</a>, has uncovered two potential new species of lamprey <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/female-lamprey-fish-mate/">fish</a> in California waters. 



This discovery suggests a greater diversity of this ancient animal in the state than previously known, which could impact how these jawless fish are managed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-diversity-nbsp">Unexpected diversity&nbsp;</h2>



PhD candidate Grace Auringer, the lead author of the study, emphasized the unexpected diversity found. “We found diversity that has never been reported,” she said. “We found two groups of fish in Napa River and Alameda Creek that are very genetically different from other samples along the West Coast.”



While eight species of lampreys are known in California, the study suggests that some species thought to be separate may not be, necessitating further research to define these new species accurately.&nbsp;



Auringer described lampreys as a "really understudied group of fish." These species are crucial for the food chain and contribute significantly to water quality and nutrient levels in waterways.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-life-cycle-nbsp">Unique life cycle&nbsp;</h2>



Lampreys, which date back over 350 million years, have a unique life cycle. They are boneless, jawless fish with eel-like bodies, and their larval stages can last up to nine years.&nbsp;



As they mature, some lamprey fish become parasitic, while others cease feeding, likely living off stored energy. Research affiliate Matthew “Mac” Campbell noted the challenges in distinguishing between species during the larval stage.



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



The study focused on 19 areas across various river basins in California. Researchers collaborated with staff from various districts, state agencies, and utilities to collect lamprey fin samples for analysis at UC Davis. The research also utilized archived tissue samples from the <a href="https://critfc.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission</a>.



Using DNA barcoding, specifically isolating the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene, the scientists identified species types and their evolutionary relationships. “The amount of diversity that we saw is quite remarkable,” Auringer said, highlighting the potential for future studies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-implications-nbsp">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



The research is significant as lamprey fish populations are thought to be declining in the West. The two newly discovered species belong to the Lampetra genus, adding complexity to California's lamprey narrative. Identifying these species can aid in refining management practices, protecting populations, and supporting ecosystems.



Lampreys provide ecosystem benefits, such as improving water quality, maintaining streambeds, cycling nutrients, and serving as a food source for various predators.&nbsp;



The research underscores the need for further study, including genomic sequencing, to understand and define the new potential lamprey species and the broader population.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-lamprey-fish">More about lamprey fish</h2>



Lamprey fish belong to the ancient lineage of jawless fish, known as Agnatha. Unlike most modern fish, lampreys don't have typical jaws. Instead, they have a unique, round, sucker-like mouth filled with rows of sharp teeth. This mouth structure allows them to attach to other fish and feed on their blood and body fluids, making them parasitic in nature.



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



Lampreys are often recognized by their elongated, eel-like bodies. They lack the paired fins and scales that are typical of many fish, giving them a distinctive, smooth appearance.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-cycle">Life cycle</h3>



Their life cycle is also quite interesting. They begin life as larvae, living in freshwater sediments and feeding on microorganisms. This larval stage can last several years. As they mature, they undergo a significant transformation, developing their characteristic sucker mouth and transitioning to a parasitic lifestyle if they are of a species that feeds on other fish.



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



In terms of habitat, lampreys are found in coastal and fresh waters in temperate regions. Some species are anadromous, meaning they migrate from saltwater to freshwater to spawn. Their spawning process is a notable event: they build nests by moving stones with their mouths, and after spawning, most species die.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-impact">Ecological impact</h3>



Lampreys have a significant ecological impact. In some cultures, they are considered a delicacy and are fished for food. However, in places where they are non-native, such as the Great Lakes in North America, they can become invasive and cause damage to the local fish populations.&nbsp;



Efforts to control their numbers in such areas are ongoing and involve various methods, including barriers and targeted pesticides that affect their larvae.



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Unexpected diversity found in California's lamprey fish

A recent study led by the University of California, Davis...

Genotyping technology can detect Covid variants more rapidly and cheaply than ever before, according to a new study led by the <a href="https://www.uea.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of East Anglia</a>. This advancement marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing fight against the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-associated-with-lower-covid-19-vaccine-responses/">Covid-19</a> pandemic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-detection-nbsp-of-new-variants">Rapid detection&nbsp;of new variants </h2>



At the core of this innovation is the ability of genotyping to identify Covid variants more effectively than the previously used whole genome sequencing methods. The new study highlights that genotyping can detect new variants almost a week faster than traditional methods.



The significance of this development cannot be overstated. During the height of the pandemic, the rapid detection and communication of variant information to frontline health protection professionals were critical.&nbsp;



The new genotyping technology not only facilitated this but also expedited the implementation of local control measures, such as contact tracing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whole-genome-sequencing-nbsp">Whole genome sequencing&nbsp;</h2>



“When the Covid pandemic began, the variant with which people were infected was initially determined using a highly accurate technique known as whole genome sequencing," said lead researcher Professor Iain Lake from UEA’s School of Environmental Sciences.



“This is the gold standard diagnostic tool for identifying and genetically characterizing variants. But where large populations need to be assessed rapidly - then cost, capacity and timeliness limit its utility."



“By the start of 2021, new technology to rapidly detect new variants was being trialed by the government in NHS Test and Trace laboratories. The technology – known as ‘genotype assay testing’ or genotyping – allows scientists to explore genetic variants.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transition-to-genotyping">Transition to genotyping</h2>



The transition to genotyping began early in 2021, with the UK government trialing new technology in NHS Test and Trace laboratories.&nbsp;



“We wanted to find out how this technology compares to traditional whole genome sequencing," said Neil Bray from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).



The study, involving data from over 115,000 Covid cases, revealed that genotyping not only provides highly accurate results but also delivers these results six days faster than whole genome sequencing.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-new-insights-nbsp">Critical new insights&nbsp;</h2>



“We found that genotyping was able to detect known Covid variants more quickly and cheaply that whole genome sequencing," said Professor Lake.



“They produced variant results six days faster than whole genome sequencing – with results back in just three days, compared to nine days for whole genome sequencing."



“Genotyping enabled a nine-fold increase in the quantity of samples tested for variants. This meant that variants were detected among many more people. Local control measures such as contact tracing could therefore happen more rapidly."



“Genotyping can be applied to finding variants in a wide range of organisms in humans and animals - so it has huge potential for guiding public health decision-making and disease control globally in future.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-implications-nbsp">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



“The world-leading genomics expertise that UKHSA and other institutions across the UK were able to draw on throughout the pandemic was critical to the UK response to COVID-19," said Professor Susan Hopkins, UKHSA Chief Medical Advisor.



“Research like this will help us continue to build on our capability in this area and ensure that the UK is as well-prepared as possible to respond quickly to emerging threats to public health in the future.”



Professor Dame Anna Dominiczak is the chief scientist for Health in Scotland who previously led the UK government’s operation to expand and run the Covid lighthouse laboratories.&nbsp;



“Research such as this is really important to ensure that we build upon the huge advances in testing that occurred during Covid to bolster our defenses against future pandemic threats," said Professor Anna Dominiczak. 



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Covid variants can be detected more rapidly than ever before

Genotyping technology can detect Covid variants more rapidly and cheaply...

White,Rhinoceros,Ceratotherium,Simum,Square-lipped,Rhinoceros,At,Khama,Rhino,Sanctuary

Southern Africa is home to the vast majority of the world’s black and white <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-rhino-day-celebrating-and-protecting-the-magnificent-rhinoceros/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rhinoceros</a> populations, holding 80% and 92% respectively. 



These majestic creatures, long the focus of conservation efforts due to poaching, now face a new and potentially more devastating threat: climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-climate-change-on-rhinos">Impact of climate change on rhinos</h2>



A new study from the <a href="https://www.umass.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Massachusetts Amherst</a>, led by Hlelowenkhosi S. Mamba, focuses on this issue.



Their findings reveal that while both higher temperatures and changing precipitation patterns are concerns, it is the rising temperatures that pose the most significant threat to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-than-half-of-africas-rhinos-have-private-owners/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rhinos</a>.



“Generally speaking, most, if not all, species will, in one way or another, be negatively affected by the changing climate,” says Mamba. 



“It is therefore important for conservationists to conduct macroecological assessments over large areas to catch trends and model futures for some of the world’s most vulnerable species to prepare to mitigate climate change’s effects, hence minimizing global biodiversity losses.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-africa-rhinoceros-and-rising-temperatures">Africa, rhinoceros, and rising temperatures</h2>



The African continent has experienced a temperature increase of 0.5 – 2 degrees Celsius over the past century. Furthermore, the IPCC projects up to another two degrees rise in the next century. 



This temperature increase in Africa is particularly problematic for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-rhino-population-numbers-slowly-rebound/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rhinoceros</a>, which lack sweat glands and rely on bathing and shade for cooling.



The study focused on five major national parks across South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Botswana, Tanzania, and eSwatini, modeling two scenarios: a high-emissions scenario and a moderate one. 



They projected temperature and precipitation changes up to 2055 and 2085, assessing the parks' suitability for rhinos.



Under the moderate emissions scenario, a warming of approximately 2.2 ºC by 2055 and 2.5 ºC by 2085 is expected, with even higher increases under the high emissions scenario. Most parks will become drier, except for Kenya's Tsavo West National Park, which may see increased rainfall.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-black-and-white-rhinos-can-t-survive-in-africa">Black and white rhinos can't survive in Africa</h2>



The research reveals a grim outlook: changes in temperature will likely exceed the rhinos' tolerance limits. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reproductive-success-of-southern-white-rhinos-linked-to-gut-microbiome/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">White rhinos</a> are expected to be affected earlier than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-majestic-and-endangered-black-rhinoceros-past-present-and-unknown-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black rhinos</a>, with a drastic decrease in their occurrence probability in all parks. 



“The temperature conditions in all study parks will become increasingly unsuitable for both species, but it is predicted that white rhinos will be affected earlier than black rhinos,” to quote the study.  



By 2085, under high-emissions scenarios, the likelihood of either species surviving in these parks could drop to zero.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-and-a-call-to-action">Conservation and a call to action</h2>



Etosha National Park in Namibia and Hlane National Park in eSwatini are set to become inhospitably warm for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-are-one-step-closer-to-creating-artificial-rhino-eggs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rhinos</a> under either emissions scenario.



<a href="https://eco.umass.edu/people/faculty/randhir-timothy-o/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Timothy Randhir</a>, senior author and professor at UMass Amherst, underscores the importance of integrating climate predictions into park and rhino management.



He proposes proactive measures such as increasing water supplies, enhancing tree cover, monitoring for stress, and planning for potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oxpeckers-alert-black-rhinos-to-the-presence-of-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rhino</a> migration as the world warms.



“This paper highlights the importance of using climate predictions for both park and rhino management,” says Randhir. 



“We propose that park managers think now about increasing water supplies, tree cover, watching for stress and planning to allow rhino migration as the world warms.”



In summary, this research is a clarion call to conservationists and park managers. The traditional focus on poaching must now expand to include strategies countering the effects of climate change. 



By understanding and anticipating these changes, we can work towards ensuring a future where these magnificent creatures continue to thrive in their natural habitats.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14888386.2023.2291133" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biodiversity</a>.



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Temperatures in Africa are rising above levels that rhinoceros can tolerate

Southern Africa is home to the vast majority of the...

In the cold, silent expanse of space, two robotic pioneers touched down on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasas-curiosity-rover-records-a-martian-day-from-dawn-to-dusk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a> in January 2004, heralding a new era in interplanetary exploration. NASA's <a href="https://mars.nasa.gov/mer/index.cfm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">twin rovers</a>, Spirit and Opportunity, made their grand entrance to the Red Planet, landing on opposite sides. 



Their descent was nothing short of dramatic: each encased in airbags, they bounced on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-captured-in-true-color-like-youve-never-seen-the-red-planet-before/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martian surface</a> around 30 times before coming to a rest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uncovering-mars-watery-past">Uncovering Mars' watery past</h2>



Sized akin to golf carts, these rovers embarked on a groundbreaking mission: to seek evidence of water on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/odyssey-orbiter-captures-unprecedented-images-of-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>. 



The discoveries they made not only altered our understanding of the Red Planet but also rewrote science textbooks. 



Shortly after landing, Opportunity stumbled upon what would become an iconic find – the “<a href="https://mars.nasa.gov/resources/6944/martian-blueberries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blueberries</a>,” small spherical pebbles of hematite formed in acidic water. This was concrete evidence of Mars’ <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-korolev-crater-holds-a-50-mile-wide-sheet-of-solid-ice-that-is-one-mile-thick/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">watery past</a>.



Spirit, showcasing resilience despite a damaged wheel, later unveiled signs of <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/mars-rover-spirit-unearths-surprise-evidence-of-wetter-past" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient hot springs</a>. These could have been sanctuaries for microbial life billions of years ago, hinting at the possibility of past life on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-martian-sky-often-has-an-eerie-green-glow-at-night-called-nightglow/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>.



Before their arrival, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-evidence-found-for-life-on-mars-where-ancient-rivers-once-flowed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a> was a mystery. Orbital images had suggested water-carved channels, but concrete evidence was missing. 



“Our twin rovers were the first to prove a wet, early Mars once existed,” noted <a href="https://science.jpl.nasa.gov/people/golombek/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Matt Golombek</a>, a former project scientist at NASA’s <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technological-triumphs-of-the-mars-rovers">Technological triumphs of the Mars rovers</h2>



The legacy of Spirit and Opportunity paved the way for larger rovers like <a href="https://mars.nasa.gov/msl/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Curiosity</a> and <a href="https://mars.nasa.gov/mars2020/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Perseverance</a>. The data they gathered played a crucial role in the development and approval of the Curiosity rover. 



Launched in 2012, Curiosity's mission was to investigate Mars' ancient chemistry and the possibility of it once being a habitat for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-mars-seismic-discoveries-and-the-quest-for-past-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life</a>.



Building on Curiosity's findings, Perseverance, which landed in 2021, took things further. It began collecting rock cores for the Mars Sample Return campaign, a collaborative effort between <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> and <a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>, aimed at seeking signs of ancient microbial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/curiosity-mars-rover-finds-more-compelling-evidence-for-life-on-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life</a>.



The journey of Spirit and Opportunity was also a tale of technological and human evolution. The engineering practices developed during their mission laid the groundwork for future Martian surface exploration. 



Specialized software and 3D goggles, for instance, became standard tools for navigating the Martian terrain. 



These advancements led to safer, longer drives and more complex daily plans required for operating the newer rovers, Curiosity and Perseverance.



Science team members evolved into adept virtual field geologists, using years of experience to guide their decisions in exploring the Martian landscape with their robotic counterparts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mars-rovers-far-exceeded-expectations">Mars rovers far exceeded expectations</h2>



Designed for a 90-day mission, the rovers far exceeded expectations. Spirit landed on January 3 and Opportunity on January 24, 2004. 



They persevered for years, with Opportunity enduring nearly 15 years until it was silenced by a massive dust storm in 2018. 



This endurance went beyond what scientists and engineers had hoped for. Opportunity, in particular, made history by covering nearly 30 miles (45 kilometers) on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-internal-structure-of-mars-core-is-finally-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>, the farthest distance driven on another planet.



John Callas, a former project manager at JPL, reflected on this achievement: “This was a paradigm shift no one was expecting. The distance and time scale we covered were a leap in scope that is truly historic.”



The extensive journey of the rovers was crucial in revealing Mars’ varied watery past, from fresh water bodies to hot springs and acidic pools.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inspiring-future-generations">Inspiring future generations</h2>



Beyond their scientific achievements, Spirit and Opportunity served as beacons of inspiration. Abigail Fraeman's story is a testament to this. 



As a high school student, she witnessed the excitement of Opportunity's landing at JPL. This experience propelled her toward a career in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-evidence-found-for-life-on-mars-where-ancient-rivers-once-flowed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars geology</a>, eventually leading her to become the deputy project scientist for Curiosity.



“The people who kept our twin rovers running for all those years are an extraordinary group, and it’s remarkable how many have made exploring Mars their career,” Fraeman said. 



“I feel so lucky I get to work with them every day while we continue to venture into places no human has ever seen in our attempt to answer some of the biggest questions.”



In summary, the journey of Spirit and Opportunity on Mars stands as a monumental chapter in space exploration. 



Their discoveries and the technological advancements they spurred have opened new horizons in our quest to understand the Red Planet. 



The legacies of these robotic pioneers continue to inspire new generations of scientists, engineers, and dreamers, all united in the pursuit of unraveling the mysteries of our universe.



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Mars Spirit and Opportunity rovers celebrate 20 years on the Red Planet

In the cold, silent expanse of space, two robotic pioneers...

Recent research has revealed alarming new details about the state of Greenland's glaciers. According to a study led by scientists at NASA’s <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a>, the Greenland ice sheet has lost approximately 20 percent more ice than previously estimated. 



This discovery not only raises concerns about sea level rise but also poses potential challenges for ocean circulation patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacier-retreat-nbsp">Glacier retreat&nbsp;</h2>



The study, which spanned from 1985 to 2022, involved a comprehensive analysis of glacier retreat across the entire ice sheet. Utilizing nearly a quarter of a million pieces of satellite data, the researchers observed significant retreat in 179 out of 207 glaciers.&nbsp;



Chad Greene, a glacier scientist at JPL and the study’s lead author, explained the process. “When the ice at the end of a glacier calves and retreats, it’s like pulling the plug out of the fjord, which lets ice drain into the ocean faster.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-sea-level-rise-nbsp">Global sea level rise&nbsp;</h2>



Previous research was primarily focused on direct contributions of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-ice-sheet-is-approaching-a-critical-tipping-point/">Greenland Ice Sheet</a> to global sea level rise through ice flow and melting.&nbsp;



The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, citing the Ice sheet Mass Balance Inter-comparison Exercise (IMBIE), estimated a loss of 5,390 billion tons of ice from 1992 to 2020, contributing about 0.531 inches to global sea levels.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-ice-loss-nbsp">Additional ice loss&nbsp;</h2>



However, this did not account for the ice lost due to the retreat of terminal glaciers at the edges of Greenland. The new study fills this gap, revealing an additional loss of about 1,140 billion tons of ice – a staggering 21% more than the IMBIE assessment.



While this additional ice loss has not directly contributed to sea level rise due to its subsea level origin, it signifies a substantial influx of fresh water into the ocean. This influx could potentially disrupt the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, a critical component of the global oceanic “conveyor belt.”&nbsp;



Such a disruption could have far-reaching impacts on global weather patterns and ecosystems, noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-new-insights-nbsp">Critical new insights&nbsp;</h2>



The study revealed that Greenland’s ice extent remained relatively stable from 1985 to 2000 but then experienced significant recession.&nbsp;



The Zachariae Isstrom glacier lost the most ice, followed by Jakobshavn Isbrae and Humboldt Gletscher. Interestingly, only one glacier, Qajuuttap Sermia, showed any growth, but its gains were insufficient to offset the losses elsewhere.



A crucial finding of the study is the correlation between Greenland's glaciers with large seasonal fluctuations in their ice fronts and the extent of overall retreat. This suggests that glaciers which are most sensitive to summer warming are likely to be the most affected by climate change in the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-significance-nbsp">Study significance&nbsp;</h2>



JPL cryosphere scientist Alex Gardner, a co-author of the paper, emphasized the significance of the study’s approach. By synthesizing big data, the study provided a systematic and comprehensive view of the ice sheet over time, as well as new insights into its behavior.



“Previously, we had bits and pieces – lots of local studies,” said Gardner. “But what this study offers is a systematic and comprehensive view that has led to some pretty significant insights that we didn’t have about the ice sheet before.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-06863-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Greenland's glaciers are losing far more ice than previously thought

Recent research has revealed alarming new details about the state...

People,With,Banners,Protest,As,Part,Of,A,Climate,Change

Recent research reveals the pivotal role of climate change in shaping voting behaviors during the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections in the U.S. 



The study, spearheaded by <a href="https://cires.colorado.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CIRES</a> Fellow and C-SEF director Matthew Burgess, along with a team of researchers and graduate students from CU Boulder, <a href="https://www.vanderbilt.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vanderbilt University</a>, and the <a href="https://www.ucsb.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California Santa Barbara</a>, offers new insights into the political implications of public opinion on climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-s-influence-on-voters">Climate change’s influence on voters</h2>



The report presents a comprehensive analysis of data from the nonpartisan <a href="https://www.voterstudygroup.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Voter Study Group</a>. 



By employing logistic regression, machine learning models, and simulations of the Electoral College, the research team has concluded that climate change opinions significantly swayed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/political-divide-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">voter choices</a>. 



Particularly in the 2020 election, the team estimates a potential 3-percent swing in the popular vote favoring Republicans, had climate change <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/politics-often-pollutes-support-for-pro-science-environmental-solutions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">opinions</a> been more favorable to them. 



This swing, the report suggests, could have been decisive for the 2020 presidential election outcome. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-vs-other-voter-concerns">Climate change vs. other voter concerns</h2>



A striking aspect of the study is the broad concern for climate change across the political spectrum. While a majority of Democrats and independents express worry about climate change, the report also notes a significant fraction of younger and moderate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jump-republicans-climate-change-real/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Republicans</a> sharing this concern. 



In fact, around one-quarter of Republicans who deemed climate change "very important" voted for President Biden in 2020. 



This cross-party concern provides Democrats with a notable 26-point lead over Republicans on this issue, as per recent polls.



Despite its influence on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/racist-people-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">voting patterns</a>, climate change is not the foremost concern among voters, with less than 5 percent ranking it as their top issue. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strong-predictor-of-voting-behavior">Strong predictor of voting behavior</h2>



If climate change isn’t voters’ top issue, why is it such a strong predictor?



“One reason might be that most people see the evidence for climate change as so strong that, if a candidate were to deny or minimize that issue, they might trust that candidate less on other issues,” said Matthew Burgess. 



“Another reason might be that voters are beginning to see a connection between climate change and the kitchen table issues they care about more, like the economy, security, and health. But we can’t say for sure, and this is a key question for future research," Burgess surmised.



More immediate concerns like the economy, healthcare, and education overshadow it. However, its role as a strong predictor in voting behavior raises questions about its indirect impact on voters' trust and perceptions of candidates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-ahead-the-2024-election">Looking ahead: The 2024 election</h2>



Matthew Burgess, leading the research, emphasizes the significance of these findings for upcoming elections. 



“This is obviously information that politicians and advocates across the political spectrum will want to know, heading into the 2024 election cycle,” said Burgess. “How to reduce political polarization of climate change is one of the questions our research group is most interested in currently, and this provides some insight.”



As the nation gears up for the next presidential election, the influence of climate change on voter decisions remains a critical area of focus. 



The CU Boulder study not only highlights the growing importance of environmental issues in American politics but also underscores the need for further research to fully grasp the nuances of this complex relationship.



In summary, the CU Boulder research sheds light on the evolving dynamics of voter behavior in the context of climate change, offering a crucial perspective as the country moves towards the 2024 presidential election.



The full study was published <a href="https://zenodo.org/records/10494414">here</a>.



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Climate change opinions swing voting and elections in the U.S.

Recent research reveals the pivotal role of climate change in...

Abstract,Space,Wallpaper.,Black,Hole,With,Nebula,Over,Colorful,Stars

An international research team has unveiled the oldest known black hole, offering new insights into the early universe's mysteries. 



This ancient entity, observed by the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a>-led team using the James Webb Space Telescope (<a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JWST</a>), dates back to just 400 million years after the Big Bang, over 13 billion years ago. 



The findings, led by <a href="https://www.robertomaiolino.net/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Roberto Maiolino</a> and hailed as "a giant leap forward", have been published in the esteemed journal Nature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenging-conventional-wisdom">Challenging conventional wisdom</h2>



The significance of this discovery lies in its challenge to our existing beliefs about black hole formation and growth. 



This black hole, several million times the mass of our Sun, existed at a time when the universe was in its infancy, raising questions about the traditional theories of black hole development. 



It suggests that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monster-black-hole-is-spinning-in-the-nearby-galaxy-m87-study-confurms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supermassive black holes</a>, like the one at the center of our Milky Way, might not only grow over billions of years but could also be ‘born big’ or grow at rates previously thought impossible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-black-hole-formation">Rethinking black hole formation</h2>



Standard models propose that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supermassive-black-holes-are-very-messy-eaters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supermassive black holes</a> originate from the remnants of dead stars. These remnants collapse, potentially forming black holes about a hundred times the mass of the Sun. 



However, for the black hole observed by Maiolino and his team, the traditional growth trajectory does not apply. 



Given the age of the universe at the time, it would have been impossible for this black hole to reach its massive size through standard growth processes.



Professor Maiolino, from Cambridge's Cavendish Laboratory and <a href="https://www.kicc.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kavli Institute of Cosmology</a>, emphasizes the need to explore alternative formation theories. 



He suggests that the gas-rich environments of early galaxies could have been feeding grounds for burgeoning black holes, likening them to a buffet.



“It’s very early in the universe to see a black hole this massive, so we’ve got to consider other ways they might form,” said&nbsp;Maiolino. “Very early galaxies were extremely gas-rich, so they would have been like a buffet for black holes.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-gn-z11-hosts-the-oldest-black-hole">Galaxy GN-z11 hosts the oldest black hole</h2>



This particular black hole, located in the young galaxy GN-z11, stands out for its voracious appetite. Unlike its counterparts in later epochs, it consumes matter from its host galaxy at an unprecedented rate. Black holes, by their nature, devour surrounding material to fuel their growth. 



This consumption is usually observed through the glow of the accretion disc, formed at the black hole's edge, where gas heats up and emits ultraviolet radiation. 



For GN-z11, the energetic black hole at its center significantly influences its characteristics and development.



The relationship between black holes and their host galaxies is complex. In the case of GN-z11, the black hole's intense consumption of gas might be detrimental to the galaxy's growth. 



Excessive consumption leads to the expulsion of gas at high speeds, a phenomenon likened to an ultra-fast wind. 



This process could halt star formation within the galaxy, ultimately leading to its demise. However, this also poses a risk to the black hole itself, as it cuts off its main source of sustenance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-era-in-cosmology">New era in cosmology</h2>



The discovery made possible by JWST marks a new era in space exploration and research. Professor Maiolino reflects on this as the most exciting time in his career, drawing parallels between the leap in sensitivity offered by JWST and the transition from Galileo's telescope to modern optics. 



He notes that the universe, as observed through JWST, is revealing more than what was visible with the <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/hubble/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble Space Telescope</a>, and this is just the beginning.



Looking ahead, Maiolino anticipates that JWST's capabilities might lead to the discovery of even older black holes. His team aims to use future observations to identify smaller black hole 'seeds', shedding light on their formation processes.



“It’s a new era: the giant leap in sensitivity, especially in the infrared, is like upgrading from Galileo’s telescope to a modern telescope overnight,” Maiolino said. 



“Before Webb came online, I thought maybe the universe isn’t so interesting when you go beyond what we could see with the Hubble Space Telescope. But that hasn’t been the case at all: the universe has been quite generous in what it’s showing us, and this is just the beginning.”



In summary, this research, a collaboration involving the European Research Council, the Royal Society, and the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), challenges our understanding of the cosmos and points us in a new direction of exploration and discovery. 



As we stand on the threshold of these new cosmic revelations, the universe continues to generously unveil its secrets, beckoning us to keep looking up and questioning.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07052-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Oldest black hole ever discovered dates back to the dawn of time

An international research team has unveiled the oldest known black...

Marijuana,Leaf,In,Front,Of,Nicely,Displayed,Stacks,Of,Delicious

Researchers at Washington State University have uncovered a key mechanism in the brain that promotes appetite, commonly known as "the munchies," specifically when activated by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-users-seem-to-sleep-better-than-most-other-people/">cannabis</a>. 



This significant discovery advances our understanding of how cannabis triggers hunger, often referred to as "the munchies." The research also opens new avenues for developing treatments for various appetite disorders.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-and-the-munchies">Cannabis and the "munchies"</h2>



The munchies typically refers to a sudden increase in appetite or craving for food, often experienced after using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-users-may-learn-to-understand-the-emotions-of-others/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a>. 



This phenomenon is quite common among cannabis users and is often characterized by a desire for high-calorie snack foods.



Cannabis is known to activate certain receptors in the brain that increase hunger, making food seem more appealing, both in terms of taste and smell. 



The <a href="https://wsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Washington State</a> team has discovered new details of how cannabis affects the brain to stimulate appetite.



"The appetite promoting effects of cannabis sativa have been recognized for centuries, however, surprisingly, the biological mechanisms that underlie this process have remained largely unknown," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



In a controlled set of animal studies, mice were exposed to vaporized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-potency-linked-to-dramatic-rise-in-psychiatric-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a> sativa. The researchers used calcium imaging technology, similar to a brain MRI, to observe the response of brain cells. 



Calcium imaging has been previously used to study brain reactions to food, but never in the context of cannabis exposure.



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



The scans revealed that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-impairment-is-difficult-to-determine-using-police-field-sobriety-tests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a> activated brain cells in the hypothalamus when the mice anticipated and consumed food. These cells were not activated in mice that were not exposed to cannabis.



“When the mice are given cannabis, neurons come on that typically are not active,” said study co-author Professor Jon Davis. “There is something important happening in the hypothalamus after vapor cannabis.”



The cells that were activated in the hypothalamus of the exposed mice are controlled by the cannabinoid-1 receptor. 



This receptor is a well-known target of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/half-of-americans-have-tried-cannabis-and-nearly-a-fifth-use-it-regularly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a> and influences the activity of "feeding" cells in the hypothalamus called agouti-related protein neurons.



Utilizing a chemogenetic technique, which functions like a molecular light switch, the researchers were able to focus on these neurons in animals exposed to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-poses-health-risks-due-to-contaminants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a>. 



Intriguingly, when the neurons were deactivated, cannabis ceased to promote appetite.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marijuana-munchies-and-future-implications">Marijuana, munchies, and future implications</h2>



This discovery has significant implications for treating appetite disorders, such as those experienced by cancer patients, individuals with anorexia, and potentially those with obesity. 



By understanding the specific brain mechanisms activated by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-cannabis-users-no-longer-need-conventional-sleep-aids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a>, more refined and targeted therapies can be developed.



The study builds on earlier work from Davis' lab, which was pioneering in using vaporized cannabis plant matter for animal studies (as opposed to injected THC). This approach is closer to how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-may-be-a-highly-effective-treatment-for-cancer-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a> is used by humans. 



Previous research from the lab identified genetic changes in the hypothalamus in response to cannabis use. 



Based on their latest results, the experts conclude that the munchies are triggered by the activation of neurons in this brain region. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-cannabis-and-appetite">More about cannabis and appetite</h2>



As mentioned above, Ccannabis has garnered significant attention for its potential to stimulate appetite in cancer patients, an aspect crucial in their overall health management. 



This benefit primarily stems from certain compounds in cannabis, notably THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which interact with the body's endocannabinoid system. This interaction can trigger an increase in hunger, commonly known as "the munchies," a familiar phenomenon among cannabis users.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cancer-patients-cannabis-and-the-munchies">Cancer patients, cannabis and the munchies</h3>



For cancer patients, this effect can be particularly beneficial. Cancer treatments like chemotherapy often lead to severe side effects, including nausea, loss of appetite, and weight loss. 



By stimulating appetite, cannabis can help patients maintain a healthier weight and improve nutrient intake. This aspect of cannabis use is not just about alleviating hunger but also about enhancing the patient's overall sense of well-being and quality of life.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-alleviates-chemotherapy-side-effects">Cannabis alleviates chemotherapy side effects</h3>



Furthermore, cannabis can also play a role in reducing nausea and vomiting, common side effects of chemotherapy. By alleviating these symptoms, cannabis not only encourages patients to eat but also helps them retain their food, ensuring better absorption of nutrients.



It's important to note that while cannabis can be beneficial for stimulating appetite in cancer patients, its use should always be under the guidance of a healthcare professional. 



Different strains of cannabis and various forms of consumption (smoking, edibles, oils, etc.) can have varying effects, and what works for one patient might not be suitable for another.



In summary, cannabis offers a promising avenue for addressing appetite loss in cancer patients. Its ability to stimulate hunger and reduce nausea can play a critical role in improving their nutritional status and overall quality of life. However, its use should be carefully managed and tailored to individual patient needs.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-50112-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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After centuries of speculation, here's why cannabis causes "the munchies"

Researchers at Washington State University have uncovered a key mechanism...

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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</div></figure>







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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

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https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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-----

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



---



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



---



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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