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...

Jupiter’s atmosphere is characterized by some of the most noticeable phenomena in our solar system, with its Great Red Spot being a particularly iconic feature. Comparable to Earth’s continuous evolution, Jupiter’s characteristics shift, and there remains a lot that scientists have yet to discover.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-swift-jet-stream">Swift jet stream</h2>



NASA’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/expansion-rate-of-the-universe-confirmed-by-jwst/">James Webb Space Telescope</a> (JWST) has been instrumental in this exploration, unveiling previously unobserved elements of Jupiter, most notably a swift jet stream cruising above the planet’s equator.&nbsp;



This jet stream, though perhaps not as visually captivating as Jupiter’s other marvels, offers scientists invaluable information about the interplay of the planet’s atmospheric strata.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unprecedented-details">Unprecedented details</h2>



NASA’s innovative telescope has identified a fresh, previously undetected atmospheric detail on Jupiter. This rapid jet stream, stretching more than 3,000 miles across, hovers above Jupiter’s main cloud decks at the equator.&nbsp;



Understanding this jet provides key insights into the interaction of the layers within Jupiter’s famously volatile atmosphere and highlights JWST’s distinctive prowess in monitoring such features.



“What we have always seen as blurred hazes in Jupiter’s atmosphere now appear as crisp features that we can track along with the planet’s fast rotation,” said lead author Ricardo Hueso, an astronomer at the <a href="https://www.ehu.eus/en/en-home">University of Basque Country</a> in Spain.



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



Data from JWST’s NIRCam, gathered in July 2022, played a pivotal role in this research. The goal was to capture images of Jupiter in distinct filters, aiming to discern variations in minor features at varying altitudes within Jupiter’s atmosphere.&nbsp;



Study co-author Imke de Pater from the <a href="https://www.berkeley.edu/">University of California, Berkeley</a>, highlighted the unique revelations the telescope has brought, surpassing observations from other missions.



“Even though various ground-based telescopes, spacecraft like NASA’s Juno and Cassini, and NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope have observed the Jovian system’s changing weather patterns, Webb has already provided new findings on Jupiter’s rings, satellites, and its atmosphere,” he explained.



Although Earth and Jupiter differ significantly, they both possess stratified atmospheres. While other missions primarily focus on the deeper atmospheric layers, JWST’s enhanced near-infrared capabilities target the loftier layers, approximately 25-50 kilometers above Jupiter’s cloud canopy. Within this scope, the telescope delineates intricate details within the normally indistinct, luminous equatorial haze.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insights">New insights</h2>



This newfound jet stream boasts impressive speeds, nearly double that of Earth’s most powerful hurricanes. Positioned about 40 kilometers above the cloud layer, it resides in Jupiter’s lower stratosphere. The team leveraged both JWST and Hubble data to gauge wind variations with altitude, leading to insights on wind shears.



“We knew the different wavelengths of Webb and Hubble would reveal the three-dimensional structure of storm clouds, but we were also able to use the timing of the data to see how rapidly storms develop,” said co-author Michael Wong, an astronomer at UC Berkeley, who oversaw the complementary Hubble observations that shed new light on the multi-dimensional structure of storm clouds and their rapid evolution.



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



The team eagerly anticipates future JWST observations to ascertain the consistency of the jet’s velocity and elevation.&nbsp;



Leigh Fletcher, a planetary scientist at the <a href="https://le.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leicester</a> in the UK highlighted Jupiter’s intricate but consistent wind and temperature patterns in its equatorial stratosphere, speculating on the potential variability of the jet in upcoming years.



“Jupiter has a complicated but repeatable pattern of winds and temperatures in its equatorial stratosphere, high above the winds in the clouds and hazes measured at these wavelengths. If the strength of this new jet is connected to this oscillating stratospheric pattern, we might expect the jet to vary considerably over the next two to four years – it’ll be really exciting to test this theory in the years to come,” he said.



“It’s amazing to me that, after years of tracking Jupiter’s clouds and winds from numerous observatories, we still have more to learn about Jupiter, and features like this jet can remain hidden from view until these new NIRCam images were taken in 2022,” he concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-023-02099-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Astronomy</a>.



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Jupiter’s turbulent atmosphere includes a high-speed jet stream

Jupiter’s atmosphere is characterized by some of the most noticeable...

While Western diets are undoubtedly linked with an increased risk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obesity-impairs-the-brains-response-to-nutrient-intake/">obesity</a>, health experts have long debated over what exactly is driving the surge in weight issues. Is it the excessive calories, carbohydrates, or fat in these foods?&nbsp;



A new study led by Dr. Richard Johnson of CU Anschutz offers a unique perspective that converges these varying theories around one central figure: fructose.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-fructose-nbsp">The role of fructose&nbsp;</h2>



The paper brings forward a compelling argument that resonates with multiple theories. According to the researchers, the key issue driving obesity is fructose. This sugar is found in table sugar and high fructose corn syrup, and is also produced within our body from carbohydrates like glucose.



The science behind the study is simple. As the body breaks down fructose, it depletes the active energy, referred to as ATP (adenosine triphosphate). This reduced energy level triggers hunger and increased food consumption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fructose-survival-hypothesis">The fructose survival hypothesis</h2>



The "fructose survival hypothesis" introduced by Dr. Johnson integrates the energy balance theory, which implies that excessive food intake, especially fat, is the root cause of obesity. At the same time, the new hypothesis acknowledges the carbohydrate-insulin model that prioritizes carbs as the main trigger for weight gain.



“Essentially, these theories, which put a litany of metabolic and dietary drivers at the center of the obesity epidemic, are all pieces of a puzzle unified by one last piece: fructose,” said Dr. Johnson. “Fructose is what triggers our metabolism to go into low power mode and lose our control of appetite, but fatty foods become the major source of calories that drive weight gain.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hibernating-animals">Hibernating animals</h2>



Dr. Johnson said we can look to hibernating animals as an example: when we’re hungry and low on active energy, we go into survival mode. Just as bears consume high-fructose fruits to prepare for winter hibernation, humans' energy levels dip when consuming fructose-rich foods.&nbsp;



Even though fat is a reservoir of stored energy, high-fructose foods prevent the utilization of this stored energy, leading to a state that is comparable to a bear gearing up for winter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reimagining-obesity">Reimagining obesity</h2>



The most radical insight this theory presents is the conceptualization of obesity. “This theory views obesity as a low-energy state,” said Dr. Johnson. “Identifying fructose as the conduit that redirects active energy replacement to fat storage shows that fructose is what drives energy imbalance, which unites theories.”



While this research offers a new direction for addressing obesity, further research is needed to conclusively confirm the findings and to identify more targeted preventions.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/oby.23920" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Obesity</a>



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Fructose sugar puts the body in low-power mode, fueling obesity

While Western diets are undoubtedly linked with an increased risk...

Beautiful,Young,Woman,Waking,Up,With,Mobile,Alarm,Clock

In a world where the snooze button is as ubiquitous as the alarm itself, understanding its impact on sleep patterns and mental alertness has never been more pertinent. 



Contrary to popular belief and previous assumptions, recent findings from <a href="https://www.su.se/cmlink/stockholm-university" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stockholm University</a> suggest that engaging in snoozing doesn't necessarily spell doom for our cognitive faculties or overall sleep quality. In fact, for consistent snoozers, indulging in that extra few minutes under the covers might actually be aiding their waking process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-debunking-snooze-button-myths">Debunking snooze button myths</h2>



For years, the snooze button has been vilified, often accused of disrupting sleep and hampering the brain's waking mechanisms. These widespread claims, however, stood on shaky ground due to a lack of direct scientific evidence. This gap in the understanding prompted researchers from the Department of Psychology at Stockholm University to delve deeper into the actual implications of snoozing.



The study, spearheaded by Tina Sundelin, was divided into two distinct studies involving a comprehensive questionnaire and a more controlled sleep lab experiment. The results defy the common narrative, providing much-needed relief to regular snoozers and shedding light on human sleep behavior and cognitive function in relation to snoozing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-snooze-button-demographics">Snooze button demographics</h2>



The first study encompassed 1732 participants and centered around their morning routines, focusing keenly on their snooze habits. A significant revelation was the demographic tendency where young adults and self-proclaimed "evening people" were more inclined to hit the snooze button.



Unsurprisingly, the predominant reason behind snoozing was the overwhelming feeling of tiredness that besieged individuals upon hearing their alarm.



This phase of the research highlighted the prevalence of snoozing across different segments of the population, establishing that it is a common behavior, especially among certain demographics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-taking-a-closer-look-in-the-sleep-lab">Taking a closer look in the sleep lab</h2>



The subsequent stage of the research involved a more nuanced approach, where 31 habitual snoozers underwent two nights of monitored sleep in a laboratory setting. The conditions varied; one morning allowed for a 30-minute snooze fest, while the other necessitated immediate waking upon the alarm's signal.



Results from this controlled setting offered solace to snoozers. Despite the intermittent sleep during the snoozing period, participants still managed substantial sleep -- over 20 minutes. This negligible difference in total sleep time challenges the notion that snoozing significantly undermines the night's rest.



A particularly interesting find was the absence of forced awakenings from deep sleep during the snooze morning, coupled with slightly enhanced performance in cognitive tests conducted immediately upon waking. Furthermore, snoozing showed no discernible impact on participants' mood, sleepiness level, or cortisol concentration in saliva.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reevaluating-the-snooze-button">Reevaluating the snooze button</h2>



The implications of this study are twofold. Firstly, it demystifies the notion that snoozing is universally detrimental. More specifically, the research unveils certain potential benefits, such as the reduced probability of abrupt deep sleep interruptions and a slight immediate boost in cognitive functioning.



However, Sundelin cautions against a one-size-fits-all approach, emphasizing that the positive indications were most pronounced among regular snoozers comfortable with resuming sleep post-alarm. This suggests that the advantages of snoozing are not universal but may be contingent on individual sleep patterns and personal comfort with the act of snoozing itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-steps-in-snooze-research">Next steps in snooze research</h2>



While this study serves as a cornerstone in understanding snoozing behavior, it also signifies the beginning of an intricate journey to explore the complexities of sleep. The research underscores the need for further exploration, particularly regarding long-term effects and the impact within diverse populations outside regular snoozers.



As the scientific community continues to unravel the mysteries of sleep, this study marks a pivotal shift in the discourse around snoozing, challenging long-held beliefs and opening the door for more nuanced discussions and investigations in the future. For now, regular snoozers might rest a bit easier, knowing science is starting to look more favorably upon those extra precious minutes in bed.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jsr.14054" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Sleep Research</a>.



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Hitting the snooze button does not disrupt your sleep or hurt your brain

In a world where the snooze button is as ubiquitous...

Western,,Bluebird,,Bird,,Couple,Male

North America is currently facing a significant and rapid decline in bird populations, a situation that has been exacerbated by various factors, including the drastic impacts of climate change. The consequences of rising temperatures on these fragile ecosystems are profound, influencing bird reproduction and survival rates. 



Recent findings from a study conducted by researchers from the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Davis</a>, highlight the multifaceted challenges birds encounter and the varying degrees of these challenges depending on their habitats.



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



The team illuminated how climate change, particularly the phenomenon of extreme temperatures, affects bird reproduction differently across diverse environments. These revelations are crucial in understanding how combined stressors, such as habitat degradation and climate-induced heat, influence bird populations throughout the United States.



One of the critical discoveries was the detrimental effect of extreme high temperatures on bird reproductive success within agricultural landscapes. Birds residing near farmlands experience a significant reduction in fledgling success during temperature spikes, with their chances of successful reproduction being halved compared to more temperate conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protective-role-of-forest-habitats">Protective role of forest habitats</h2>



Contrastingly, forest environments appear to serve as sanctuaries against the harsh temperatures. The natural canopy cover and shaded areas within these forests contribute significantly to nesting success, thereby offering a crucial climate refuge for various bird species.



Katherine Lauck, the study’s co-lead author and a Ph.D. candidate in ecology at UC Davis, emphasizes the disparity in heat effects between agricultural and forest-nesting birds. She suggests that canopy cover could be a decisive factor in providing much-needed climate refuges, crucial for the survival of diverse bird species that thrive in these habitats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-areas-unexpected-safe-havens">Urban areas: Unexpected safe havens?</h2>



Interestingly, the study found that urban settings, contrary to popular belief, had less negative impact on bird nesting success during heat waves compared to agricultural landscapes. Urban nests, often located in city parks or residential areas with significant tree cover, seemed to benefit from these “mini-forests,” providing a buffer against temperature extremes.



Lauck points out that common cityscapes like backyards and parks could play a vital role as bird habitats, offering a degree of protection against future climate extremes. These findings indicate the importance of urban green spaces for wildlife conservation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-reproduction-and-citizen-science">Bird reproduction and citizen science</h2>



The project, initiated by Associate Professor Daniel Karp and his students from the Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Conservation Biology, was a response to keep the lab connected during the COVID-19 pandemic. They leveraged data from <a href="https://nestwatch.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NestWatch</a>, a citizen science program by Cornell University’s <a href="https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Laboratory of Ornithology</a>.



This large-scale initiative involves volunteers across the country monitoring local bird nests and recording valuable data. The extensive dataset, encompassing over 152,000 nesting records from nearly 60 bird species across various habitats over 23 years, provided a unique insight into bird reproduction trends and the challenges posed by climate change and habitat loss.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-most-vulnerable-species">The most vulnerable species</h2>



The research delved into the species most affected by temperature extremes in agricultural settings. It was observed that the impact was broad, significantly affecting all studied bird species, including western bluebirds and tree swallows, common inhabitants of farms.



The vulnerability was even more pronounced in threatened birds and those that construct open-cup nests, exposing them directly to the elements. According to Karp, the alarming decline in nesting success becomes even more concerning for species already under conservation scrutiny.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-ahead-predictions-and-conservation">Looking ahead: Predictions and conservation</h2>



The implications of the study are far-reaching, predicting a further 5% decline in nesting success in agricultural landscapes by 2100 if current greenhouse gas emissions continue unabated. This forecast underscores the urgent need for measures to counteract these effects.



The research advocates for immediate action, such as reducing emissions and creating or preserving natural vegetation patches to serve as thermal refuges. These steps are essential for bird conservation, especially in urban and agricultural settings.



Karp suggests practical interventions, such as strategically placing nest boxes in shaded areas and maintaining native vegetation to provide the necessary cover and protection from heat. These actions could significantly influence the survival of bird populations in the coming years, ensuring these crucial members of the ecosystem continue to thrive.



The full study was published in the renowned journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.add2915" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Bird reproduction suffers greatly during heat waves

North America is currently facing a significant and rapid decline...

Climate,Changes.,Water,Levels,Are,Rising.,Large,Sea,Waves,Relentlessly

Global coastal adaptations are alarmingly insufficient to confront the vulnerabilities posed by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humanity-should-brace-for-catastrophic-climate-change/">climate change</a>, warns a new study.&nbsp;



The experts say that in order to address these problems, decisive action is needed by the international policy community to identify global priorities in key risk areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-short-sighted-projects-nbsp">Short-sighted projects&nbsp;</h2>



“Recent analyses conclude that despite adaptation undertaken in all regions and sectors, global action remains incremental in scale: policies and projects are usually short-sighted and single hazard-focused, inadequately address the root causes of exposure and vulnerability, and are poorly monitored," said Professor Robert Nicholls of the <a href="https://www.uea.ac.uk/">University of East Anglia</a>.



"There is also little evidence of effective risk reduction in relation to implemented responses.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptation-assessment-nbsp">Adaptation assessment&nbsp;</h2>



Study lead author Dr. Alexandre Magnan is an expert at the Institute for Sustainable Development and International Relations (IDDRI).



“Assessing climate adaptation is a burning scientific and policy question because, as today’s global climate risk will experience a two- to four-fold increase by the end of this century depending on the global greenhouse gas emissions trajectory, we need to know the current status toward addressing its consequences," said Dr. Magnan.



“New, alternative methods to assess adaptation are urgently needed in order carry out effective planning and action, evidence on risk reduction, capabilities and create a long-term vision.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-current-state-of-adaptation">Current state of adaptation</h2>



Based on 61 coastal case studies, the researchers have provided a locally informed perspective on the current state of global coastal adaptation, addressing both extreme and gradual climate changes.&nbsp;



The study covered a range of effects including coastal erosion, marine flooding, sea-level rise, soil and groundwater salinization, inland flooding due to heavy precipitation, and permafrost thaw.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-plans-are-lacking">Long-term plans are lacking</h2>



The results revealed a noticeable distinction between urban and rural areas. While urban coastal areas seem to have more evolved strategies, long-term plans are conspicuously lacking across both sectors.



According to the researchers, global coastal adaptation efforts have achieved only half of their full potential.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-low-lying-coastlines-nbsp">Low-lying coastlines&nbsp;</h2>



Highlighting the imminent danger of sea-level rise, the team stated that the risks to low-lying coastlines are already detectable.&nbsp;



“By the end of the century and in the absence of ambitious adaptation efforts, these risks will become significant, widespread and possibly irreversible in atolls and Arctic coasts," said Professor Nicholls.



"The lower estimates for deltas are still a concern given these geographies’ population sizes and economic importance globally.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-adaptation-progress-tracker">Global Adaptation Progress Tracker</h2>



To better assess adaptation efforts, the researchers have introduced the Global Adaptation Progress Tracker (GAP-Track). This tracker aligns with the framework for the Global Goal on Adaptation established under the Paris Agreement in 2015.&nbsp;



“Countries still struggle finding a way to operationalize the Global Goal on Adaptation and to conduct the Global Stocktake (GST) series that aims to collectively track adaptation progress and gaps, with a first iteration due at COP28 in the United Arab Emirates," said Dr. Magnan.



“The multi-dimensional and locally grounded assessment developed in this study for coastal adaptation confirms the need to drastically scale up adaptation policy and action around the globe, from local governments and stakeholders to the international climate policy arena."&nbsp;&nbsp;



“We are arguing that the approach developed in this paper can play a decisive role in helping refine both targets and priorities.”&nbsp;



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/nclimate/">Nature Climate Change</a>.



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Coastal adaptations are alarmingly insufficient, study warns

Global coastal adaptations are alarmingly insufficient to confront the vulnerabilities...

Closeup,Side,View,Smilling,Portrait,Of,Golden,Retriever,Dog,In

Golden Retrievers, one of the most cherished canine breeds worldwide, are facing a disquieting threat. With research indicating a staggering 65% likelihood of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-dogs-are-more-likely-to-develop-transmissible-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs dying from cancer</a>, the urgency to understand and combat this disease has never been more pronounced. 



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Davis</a> embarked on an innovative study, veering away from the traditional path of identifying cancer-associated genes. Instead, they focused on unraveling the genetic mysteries tied to longer lifespans in Golden Retrievers, opening new avenues in cancer research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-cancer-predisposition-to-longevity">From cancer predisposition to longevity</h2>



In this study, the research team illuminates the discovery of a specific gene. The gene is pivotal, not in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-should-you-begin-cancer-screening-for-your-dog/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer onset</a>, but in promoting a longer life for Golden Retrievers. 



This gene belongs to a protein family recognized for its significant role in human oncology, marking a shift in focus that may resonate profoundly within both veterinary and human medicine.



Rather than zeroing in on genes directly linked to cancer, the researchers aimed their investigative lens at those connected to extended life. 



"We assume that the majority of golden retrievers have a genetic predisposition to cancer," explained co-corresponding author Robert Rebhun, holder of the Maxine Adler Endowed Chair in oncology at the UC Davis <a href="https://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Veterinary Medicine</a>. "But with some living up to 14, 15, or 16 years, we hypothesized the existence of another genetic factor mitigating the detrimental ones."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-her4-golden-retrievers-harbinger-of-hope">HER4: Golden Retrievers' harbinger of hope</h2>



The gene that emerged from their exploration was HER4 (also known as ERBB4), part of the human epidermal growth factor receptor family. Intriguingly, this gene cluster also contains HER2, notorious for its role in aggressive cancer cell proliferation in humans.



Highlighting the translational aspect of this discovery, Rebhun remarked, "If this HER4 variant is crucial in cancer development or progression in golden retrievers, or if it modifies cancer risk in this predisposed population, it could significantly influence future human cancer studies."



Over 300 golden retrievers contributed to this pioneering research. By contrasting the DNA from golden retrievers living beyond 14 years with those passing before age 12, the scientists uncovered that certain HER4 variants were synonymous with longer lives. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significant-leap-in-canine-lifespan">Significant leap in canine lifespan</h2>



The distinction was stark: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-do-small-dogs-live-longer-than-large-breeds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> with these specific gene variants lived an average of 13.5 years, outliving others whose lives typically spanned 11.6 years.



"An extension close to two years is monumental in a dog's life," stated co-corresponding author Danika Bannasch, also a Maxine Adler Endowed Chair holder in genetics at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. She illustrated the profound implications of their findings, equating the additional years to a 15-20% life extension for the dogs, comparable to 12-14 human years.



However, Bannasch cautioned against oversimplification, acknowledging the intricate network of genes implicated in cancer development. "The correlation between a longevity-associated gene and one involved in cancer is incredibly intriguing to us," she added, hinting at the complexity of genetic interactions in disease and survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gender-differences-and-future-directions">Gender differences and future directions</h2>



Further dissecting their findings, the team identified an intriguing pattern: the gene variant's influence appeared predominantly in female golden retrievers. HER4's known interactions with hormones, specifically estrogen, and potential involvement in environmental toxin processing, underline its significance in biological pathways.



Emphasizing the preliminary nature of their discovery, Rebhun advocated for a broader, more comprehensive study, enlisting an expanded golden retriever demographic to corroborate these findings and explore the genetic variant's functional impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hope-for-golden-retrievers-and-all-canines">Hope for Golden Retrievers and all canines</h2>



This study serves as a linchpin for future research, not only within veterinary medicine but also potentially informing human oncological studies. By transcending the conventional approach of cancer gene exploration and spotlighting genes connected to longevity, UC Davis researchers have charted a new course. 



This path may well lead to life-extending strategies for our beloved canine companions -- and, optimistically, for humans. Their work stands as a testament to the intertwining destinies of human and veterinary medicine, each enriching the other in the relentless pursuit of health and longevity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-golden-retrievers">More about Golden Retrievers</h2>



Golden Retrievers, with their friendly eyes and luxuriant golden coats, reign supreme as one of the most popular dog breeds in America. Originally bred for hunting, these dogs now captivate hearts as devoted companions, showcasing an exceptional balance of intelligence and playfulness.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-hunter-s-best-companion">A hunter's best companion</h3>



In the mid-19th century, Scottish hunters sought a superior dog breed skilled in retrieving game from both water and land. They selectively bred various dogs, combining the best traits of the Tweed Water Spaniel, Irish Setter, and Bloodhound. The result was the Golden Retriever, a dog with an uncanny ability to retrieve shot game undamaged, thanks to its soft mouth and inherent swimming prowess.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temperament-the-epitome-of-friendliness">Temperament: The epitome of friendliness</h3>



Golden Retrievers radiate an amiable, easy-going temperament, making them exceptional family pets. They thrive on human interaction and actively participate in family activities. Their intelligence and desire to please facilitate their success as service dogs, excelling in roles such as therapy, assistance, and search and rescue operations.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-characteristics">Physical characteristics</h3>



Adult Golden Retrievers stand between 21.5 to 24 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 55 to 75 pounds. Their distinctive dense, water-repellent outer coat and soft undercoat, which shed seasonally, require regular grooming. These dogs are athletic, with a well-coordinated gait, reflecting their heritage as efficient working dogs.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-vigilance-for-a-vibrant-life">Health: Vigilance for a vibrant life</h3>



While Golden Retrievers generally boast robust health, they are predisposed to certain conditions. Common health concerns include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain heart issues. As mentioned earlier in this article, they are also highly prone to cancer.



Regular check-ups can preemptively address these issues, ensuring the dog's well-being. Notably, they also have a propensity for obesity, so a balanced diet and ample exercise are essential.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-training-harnessing-their-potential">Training: Harnessing their potential</h3>



Golden Retrievers respond best to positive reinforcement techniques, given their eagerness to please and sensitive nature. Early socialization and obedience training harness their sociable nature, preventing behavioral issues. Consistent, engaging, and fun training sessions best suit their lively intellect and maintain their mental and physical health.



Golden Retrievers, affectionate and loyal, make for an enriching addition to many homes. Their versatility and adaptable nature endear them to a multitude of roles, from faithful companion to diligent service dog. A commitment to their health and well-being, in turn, lets them fully shine in all their golden glory.



The full study was published in the esteemed journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11357-023-00968-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GeroScience</a>.



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Golden Retrievers and most dog breeds will live longer lives thanks to new discovery

Golden Retrievers, one of the most cherished canine breeds worldwide,...

Expanding crop farming worldwide is emerging as the leading cause for the loss of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-solutions-for-the-climate-and-biodiversity-crisis/">biodiversity</a> in the wilderness. 



A new study published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(23)01229-0?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS0960982223012290%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a> has revealed the transformations that may be witnessed in the global agricultural landscape over the next four decades.



The researchers analyzed data from 1,708 crops in a database established by the Food and Agricultural Organization. They predict a significant shift in farming regions due to global warming.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-suitable-land-for-farming">Suitable land for farming</h2>



As temperatures rise, high-latitude areas closer to the poles could become prime locations for agricultural activities, potentially threatening the vast wilderness across these regions.



“We expected that warming temperatures would increase agricultural suitability at high latitudes, but the scale of this result, and the extent to which this newly suitable land is in wilderness, was surprising: 76% of newly suitable land at high latitudes is currently wilderness, equivalent to 10% of the total wilderness in these areas," said study lead author Alexandra Gardner of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-solutions-for-the-climate-and-biodiversity-crisis/">University of Exeter</a>.



For now, most global crop cultivation is concentrated in regions closer to the equator. Yet, these areas are already suffering wilderness loss due to expanding agriculture.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-agricultural-pursuits-nbsp">Agricultural pursuits&nbsp;</h2>



Looking ahead, the team predicts a worrisome future where around 72% of currently agriculturally viable land may experience a significant dip in biodiversity. This is because, as high-latitude regions get warmer, they are becoming more ideal for farming.



Shocking data indicates that since the early 1990s, a whopping 3.3 million square kilometers of wilderness, almost double the size of Alaska, have been lost to agricultural pursuits.&nbsp;



The creation of numerous protected areas over the years has not been adequate to counterbalance the immense pressure exerted by agriculture on natural habitats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-minimizing-the-impacts">Minimizing the impacts</h2>



“We need to understand the specific impacts of different agricultural practices on biodiversity,” said Gardner. “An important step is knowing how we can maintain or improve crop yields on existing agricultural land using sustainable practices that do not harm or minimize the negative impacts on natural biodiversity.”&nbsp;



Gardner and colleagues say that a good way to do this is to promote manmade biodiversity by growing a variety of crops that have been tailored to the natural environment on a single farm.&nbsp;



This type of practice could be integrated with the environment without hampering native wildlife, and could also act as a safeguard against the threats of climate change.



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



The researchers noted in their paper that strategy and policy must evolve alongside agriculture.&nbsp;



“This is never going to be successful unless you bring the farmers into the decision-making process,” said Ilya Maclean of the University of Exeter.&nbsp;



“What we’ve seen over the last 50 years is a shift toward extensive large fields and monocultures. It’s much cheaper for a farmer to produce crops that way. But if you grow a single crop on your farm, you’re more susceptible to the uncertainties of climate change.”&nbsp;



“What we'll be seeing is parts of the last untouched places on the planet becoming more suited for agriculture."



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High-latitude wilderness will become a target for agriculture

Expanding crop farming worldwide is emerging as the leading cause...

A new study led by the <a href="https://www.riken.jp/en/research/labs/bdr/">RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research</a> (BDR) has found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parasites-extinct-2070/">parasites</a> have the ability to control their hosts by using genes they might have acquired through horizontal gene transfer.&nbsp;



Parasites have a known propensity to influence the actions of their hosts, paving the way for their continued survival and ability to procreate.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-horsehair-worms">Horsehair worms</h2>



One of the most intriguing cases is seen in horsehair worms. These worms initiate their life cycle in water, using water-dwelling insects like mayflies as a means to travel to terrestrial environments.&nbsp;



Upon reaching land, these worms await ingestion by land insects, such as crickets or mantises. Inside these hosts, the worms not only grow but also alter the insect’s behavior.&nbsp;



In a fascinating turn of events, a fully grown horsehair worm makes the host insect jump into water, which, while facilitating the worm’s reproduction, often results in the insect’s death.



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



Previous research has hinted at the fact that horsehair worms can modify their host’s intrinsic pathways, driving them towards light, and eventually water. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms that allow these worms to emulate the functionalities of their hosts’ central nervous systems have, up till now, been cloaked in mystery.



Seeking answers, the experts embarked on a journey to study gene expression patterns in a Chordodes horsehair worm at varying phases of its control over a mantis.&nbsp;



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



The investigations unveiled certain genes that were dominant when the host was under manipulation.&nbsp;



By contrast, the brain activity of the mantis remained unchanged, pointing towards the possibility that horsehair worms utilize their own protein structures to control the nervous systems of their hosts.



Delving deeper into the origins of these manipulative genes, the scientists made a startling discovery.&nbsp;



“Strikingly, many of the horsehair worm genes that could play important roles in manipulating their hosts were very similar to mantid genes, suggesting that they were acquired through horizontal gene transfer,” said lead author Tappei Mishina, a postdoctoral fellow in Genetics at BDR.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stealing-genes">Stealing genes</h2>



Horizontal gene transfer, which is not linked to reproduction, allows for a direct transfer of genes between two different organisms. This can lead to swift evolutionary transitions.



Supporting data further strengthened the hypothesis that the Chordodes horsehair worms might have acquired these manipulative traits from mantises. In essence, certain genes within the worms matched those in mantises but were conspicuously absent in other horsehair worm species that didn’t use mantises as hosts.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-host-manipulation-nbsp">Host manipulation&nbsp;</h2>



The team’s conclusion centers around the belief that multiple instances of horizontal gene transfer from various mantis species over evolutionary timelines resulted in the presence of these mimicry genes. These genes, especially those linked to neural activity, light attraction, and day-night cycles, seem to play a pivotal role in host manipulation.



It is well-documented that horizontal gene transfer is crucial for bacteria to develop antibiotic resistance. According to Mishina, the identification of more instances of this phenomenon in multicellular organisms will shed light on its intricate dynamics and, more broadly, on evolutionary strategies.&nbsp;



“The many cases of horizontal gene transfer that we have found in the hairworm can be a good model for study. Using this model, we hope to identify the mechanisms underlying horizontal gene transfer and advance our understanding of evolutionary adaptation,” he concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2023.09.052">Current Biology</a>.



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Parasites steal genes to control their hosts’ behavior

A new study led by the RIKEN Center for Biosystems...

Ancient, superdeep diamonds from mines in Brazil and Western Africa have recently offered incredible insights into the mysterious evolution of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strange-lava-worlds-magma-oceans-affect-the-evolution-of-hot-planets/">planet</a>.&nbsp;



These diamonds, estimated to have been formed between 650 and 450 million years ago at the base of the supercontinent Gondwana, have unveiled new processes of how Earth's continents evolved, stabilized, and traversed the globe.



“Superdeep diamonds are extremely rare and we now know that they can tell us a lot about the whole process of continent formation,” said study co-author Dr.&nbsp; Karen Smit. “We wanted to date these diamonds to try and understand how the earliest continents formed.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supercontinent-cycle-nbsp">Supercontinent cycle&nbsp;</h2>



Diamonds are remarkable gemstones, not just for their beauty but for their ability to serve as windows into the Earth’s ancient past. These stones, which originated millions to billions of years ago, illuminate the hidden depths and the oldest sectors of the Earth’s mantle.&nbsp;



The dynamic movement of continents across the Earth's surface results in the formation and eventual disintegration of “supercontinents,” a phenomenon referred to as the “supercontinent cycle.”



Remarkably, diamonds are among the select few minerals that are strong enough to endure and document these prehistoric cycles of creation and dissolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plate-tectonics">Plate tectonics</h2>



Supercontinents play a pivotal role in concentrating deep oceanic plate subduction, the driving force behind plate tectonics, within certain regions. The challenges in directly studying such profound geologic processes, especially from ancient times, are numerous.&nbsp;



The oceanic crust’s relative youth and the restricted view from the continental crust make old diamonds an invaluable tool, providing a direct glimpse into the deep plate tectonic operations and their correlation with the supercontinent cycle.



The research, led by Dr. Suzette Timmerman of the <a href="https://www.unibe.ch/index_eng.html">University of Bern</a>, involved dating tiny silicate and sulphide inclusions within the diamonds. These diamonds formed at staggering depths of 300 to 700km beneath Gondwana.&nbsp;



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



An unexpected revelation surfaced as the team set out to determine how material contributed to the keel of the supercontinent.



“The geochemical analyses and dating of inclusions in the diamonds, combined with existing plate tectonic models of continent migration, showed that diamonds formed at great depths beneath Gondwana when the supercontinent covered the South Pole, between 650–450 million years ago,” said Dr. Smit.&nbsp;



In an intricate process, as the host rocks to these diamonds became buoyant, they transported subducted mantle material and the diamonds, thus "growing" the supercontinent from its base. A fascinating chronology of events unfolded, with Gondwana beginning its fragmentation.



“Around 120 million years ago, Gondwana started to break apart to form the present oceans such as the Atlantic," said Dr. Smit. "At 90 million years ago, the diamonds, carrying trapped tiny inclusions of the host rock, were brought to Earth’s surface in violent volcanic eruptions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-well-traveled-diamonds">Well-traveled diamonds</h2>



The present-day sites of these eruptions are found in Brazil and Western Africa, crucial fragments of Gondwana. Consequently, it's apparent that these diamonds journeyed alongside various segments of the once-mighty supercontinent, firmly adhered to their base.&nbsp;



Dr. Smit, who performed the isotope analyses of sulphide inclusions at the Carnegie Institution for Science and is currently at the <a href="https://www.wits.ac.za/">University of the Witwatersrand</a>, stressed the importance of this research.&nbsp;



“This complex history of the diamonds shows that they are remarkably well-travelled, both vertically, and horizontally, within the Earth – tracing both the formation of the supercontinent and the latter stages of its evolution," said Dr. Smit.



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



"The accretion of relatively young material to the roots of the continents thickens and welds together these ancient continental fragments indicating a potential new mode of continent growth.”



“We have installed the necessary equipment in 2022 and are working towards getting the highly specialised skills and equipment together so we can do this type of diamond work in South Africa, where previously it could only be done overseas."



“We need this type of research to understand how continents evolve and move. Without continents there wouldn’t be life. This research gives us insight into how continents form, and it links to how life evolved and what makes our planet, Earth, different from other planets.”



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06662-9.">Nature</a>.



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Diamonds hold clues about Earth's mysterious evolutionary tale

Ancient, superdeep diamonds from mines in Brazil and Western Africa...

In the wake of intensifying climate change, a recent study has shed light on the potentially dangerous consequences of increasing river temperatures due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fluctuating-sea-temperature-droughts/">droughts</a>.&nbsp;



The findings predict significant repercussions not just for aquatic organisms but also for human health and a variety of human activities that depend on rivers.



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



River water temperature plays an important role in various physical, chemical, and biological processes. It is especially critical for fish, who lack the capability to self-regulate their body temperatures.&nbsp;



Beyond its ecological importance, river temperature is also crucial for human health, industrial processes, domestic uses, and recreational activities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-mechanisms">Key mechanisms </h2>



In a collaborative review from the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/index.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Birmingham</a>, the University of Nottingham, and the Scottish Government’s Marine Directorate, experts have identified three main mechanisms that lead to increased river water temperatures during droughts:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-atmospheric-energy-inputs">Atmospheric energy inputs</h3>



This refers to the energy from the sun, especially intense shortwave radiation during arid, sweltering periods, identified as the leading cause of high river water temperatures.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-habitat-influences">Physical habitat influences</h3>



The shade provided by the riverside environment and the physical form of the river channel, which determines flow, are critical factors.



Contributions from different water sources



Interestingly, groundwater, which tends to be cooler, can actually help in reducing river temperatures during the summertime.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-compound-effect-of-drought-and-warming">Compound effect of drought and warming</h2>



Drought conditions, which are marked by reduced water levels and slower flow velocities, make waters heat up faster.&nbsp;



These conditions, when coupled with high atmospheric temperatures, form a lethal combination that can severely escalate river water temperatures.&nbsp;



Droughts are anticipated to become both more intense and frequent due to climate change.



On the bright side, the researchers noted that certain cooling effects - such as groundwater influx, evaporation, and the shade provided by river channels - can act as temperature moderators in some situations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-management-interventions-nbsp">Management interventions&nbsp;</h2>



“Rising river water temperatures can have significant and often detrimental implications for aquatic life, impacting both individual species and entire ecosystems," said study co-author David Hannah, professor of Hydrology and UNESCO Chair in Water Sciences at the University of Birmingham.



“Drought conditions often coincide with high atmospheric temperatures and such trends will become more intense and frequent with climate change - with major implications for river water temperatures due to the combination of intense solar radiation and lower (and slower) water flows."



“However, certain management interventions such as riverside planting, and river restoration initiatives – including recreating natural channel forms and reconnecting groundwaters – could help to offset high thermal extremes during droughts if interventions are well targeted.”



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



The researchers noted that more holistic approaches to river restoration are required that consider how high river water temperature extremes can be offset while delivering other environmental and ecological benefits.&nbsp;



They are calling for new scientific approaches to investigate how the three river temperature mechanisms they have identified may interact.



“Our work highlights critical future research questions that will help us to better model river water temperature dynamics during droughts – helping river managers to work out how thermal extremes could be better managed through mitigation and adaptation strategies," said study lead author Dr. James White from the University of Birmingham.



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/hyp.14958">Hydrological Processes</a>.



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Drought conditions amplify river temperatures

In the wake of intensifying climate change, a recent study...

A study from <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NC State</a> has revealed that neighborhood greenspaces have a positive impact on a genetic marker associated with stress exposure. However, the experts report that these positive effects are not enough to compensate for environmental hazards like air pollution.



“There’s a lot of research that talks about the various ways in which greenspace is beneficial, and a lot of research that talks about adverse health effects associated with pollution, racist segregation in housing, and other social and environmental challenges,” said study co-author Aaron Hipp.&nbsp;



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



Hipp noted that this study was an attempt to quantify the beneficial impacts of greenspace at the cellular level, and the extent to which greenspace can help to offset environmental harms.



"The role our environment plays in health is important to understand as many areas of the world continue to urbanize. One pathway that natural and social environments can influence health is through the exposome," explained the researchers.



"The exposome encompasses the various experiences and exposures faced throughout the lifecourse and can shape health outcomes by causing changes in the human body, including at the cellular and genetic level."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-telomere-health">Telomere health</h2>



The study revealed that neighborhood greenspaces such as yards, parks, and other public areas are particularly beneficial to our telomeres. These are repetitive DNA sections situated at each end of a chromosome, playing a crucial role in safeguarding chromosome ends from potential damage.&nbsp;



With every cell division, these telomeres reduce a bit in size. When they become exceedingly short, the cell can no longer divide and ultimately dies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biological-age-nbsp">Biological age&nbsp;</h2>



“This makes telomeres important markers of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-induced-increases-in-biological-age-can-be-reversed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological age</a>, or how worn down our cells are,” explained study co-author Scott Ogletree. “And we know that many variables - such as stress - can influence how quickly our telomeres wear down.” 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study-nbsp-0">Focus of the study&nbsp;</h2>



The study was focused on data from the CDC's National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), which was conducted from 1999-2002.&nbsp;



The researchers analyzed data from 7,827 individuals, taking into account factors like their demographic details, telomere length, and residence. They evaluated the neighborhood greenspaces in each person's vicinity and related this information to telomere size.&nbsp;



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



According to Hipp, the findings show a direct correlation between increased neighborhood greenspace and extended telomeres. This correlation was found regardless of an individual's racial background, economic status, drinking or smoking habits.



“That’s the good news,” said Ogletree. “However, when we accounted for other characteristics of each neighborhood – air pollution, segregation, or ‘deprivation’ – the positive effect of the greenspace essentially disappeared."



"Deprivation, in this context, was an overarching variable that included the neighborhood-level data on income, education, employment status, and housing conditions. In other words, while greenspace seems to help protect telomere length, the harm from other factors appears to offset that protection.”



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



“Greenspace is tremendously valuable for a community, but it is not enough to overcome systemic racism and the effects of economic segregation and environmental justice challenges on its own,” said Hipp.&nbsp;



“This study drives home the idea that creating greenspace in a community is important, but it’s as crucial – or more crucial – for us to address environmental harms, particularly those tied to systemic racism.”



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167452">Science of The Total Environment</a>.



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Neighborhood greenspaces boost health on a cellular level

A study from NC State has revealed that neighborhood greenspaces...

Researchers have unearthed the most complete <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sabertooth-skull-offers-new-clues-about-the-extinct-mammal/">skeleton</a> of a saber-toothed marsupial in the Tatacoa Desert, Colombia. This discovery will dramatically improve our understanding of these mysterious creatures, which lived approximately 13 million years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anachlysictis-gracilis">Anachlysictis gracilis</h2>



The saber-toothed marsupial, Anachlysictis gracilis, was part of the sparassodonts group, predatory mammals that roamed South America in the post-dinosaur Cenozoic era.&nbsp;



The skeleton was found in an area known to paleontologists as "La Venta," which is now the La Tatacoa desert. According to Dr. Catalina Suarez, the region was once a tropical rainforest, reminiscent of the modern-day Amazon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extinct-predators">Extinct predators</h2>



Previous encounters with this species were limited. Only fragments of a mandible and few additional remains had been discovered, so this recent find bridges a significant gap in our knowledge about saber-toothed marsupials.



“Thanks to this discovery, we were able to learn new details about this fascinating species,” said Dr Suarez, who led the analysis of the remains. “The analyses allowed us to understand what these extinct predators were like and how they lived in Neotropical South America millions of years ago.”



While Dr. Suarez started her journey with the A. gracilis during her time at the <a href="https://stri.si.edu/">Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute</a>, she has now become a specialist in metatherians, a group encompassing marsupials and their extinct relatives. Notably, the A. gracilis fossil is a part of the Thylacosmilidae family, known for their curved, saber-like canines.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-thylacosmilidae">Thylacosmilidae</h2>



“Our research confirms that this Colombian fossil ‘saber-tooth marsupial’ A. gracilis, is closely related to Thylacosmilus, which is the most widely recognized ‘saber-tooth marsupial,” said Dr. Javier Luque.



“Both groups, together with Patagosmilus (another one of these ‘saber-tooth marsupials’), form their own family in the mammal tree of life, known as Thylacosmilidae."&nbsp;



"This family is characterized by its long and enormous curved and saber-shaped upper canines, and by an extension of the anterior part of the jaw that looks like the sheath of said 'sabers.'”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hypercarnivores-nbsp">Hypercarnivores&nbsp;</h2>



By examining the remains' molar teeth and mandible, researchers deduced A. gracilis's diet and weight. Weighing roughly 23 kg, which is comparable to a modern lynx, this marsupial was a hypercarnivore that preyed on various smaller mammals that inhabited its realm.



According to the study authors, its potential prey would have included small mammals that inhabited the area, such as marsupials, spiny rats, porcupines, rodents of various sizes and even primates.



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



“In a future study we will address all the other bones in its body, which include various sections of the spine, ribs, hip, scapulae - what we call 'shoulder blades' for humans - and bones in its legs," said Dr. Suarez.&nbsp;



"This will allow us to explore aspects of how it moved, the position in which its neck held its head, whether it was a runner, whether it could climb, whether its hands could hold objects more easily, as many marsupials do when feeding, or whether it was a bit more difficult, as it is for example for a dog or a cat.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remarkable-discoveries-nbsp">Remarkable discoveries&nbsp;</h2>



The extraordinary fossil now resides in the La Tatacoa Natural History Museum, in La Victoria, Colombia, amongst other remarkable discoveries from this paleontological goldmine.



"The fossil specimen of A. gracilis that we describe in this research constitutes an iconic fossil because of its excellent preservation, three-dimensionality, and importance for understanding the paleobiological aspects of this predatory marsupial that roamed the forests of northern South America approximately 13 million years ago,” said Dr. Edwin Cadena.



“With this finding we show the importance of continuing to support paleontological scientific activity in the Neotropics, in order to be able to make new discoveries that will help us understand the evolutionary history and paleobiodiversity of this part of the continent.”



The <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.5252/geodiversitas2023v45a18">research</a> was a collaborative effort involving institutions from countries like Argentina, Colombia, the US, Japan, Panama, and the UK.&nbsp;



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Extraordinary discovery: Saber-toothed marsupial fossil found in the Tatacoa Desert

Researchers have unearthed the most complete skeleton of a saber-toothed...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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







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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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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

[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"] Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected...

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