In a remarkable medical breakthrough, engineers have developed a light-activated pacemaker so tiny that doctors can inject it into the body through a syringe. Remarkably, the device simply dissolves after it’s no longer needed.&nbsp;



Designed for newborns, the pacemaker could transform temporary heart care after congenital defect surgeries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controlling-the-heart-with-light">Controlling the heart with light</h2>



The new pacemaker is smaller than a grain of rice. It's wirelessly activated through pulses of light which are delivered by a soft, wearable device mounted on the patient’s chest.



The external controller detects abnormal rhythms and sends light through the body to activate the pacemaker and restore heartbeat. The study demonstrates the device’s effectiveness across animal and human donor hearts.&nbsp;



The development of the pacemaker was led by John A. Rogers, a professor of material science, biomedical engineering, and neurological surgery at <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern University</a>.&nbsp;



“We have developed what is, to our knowledge, the world’s smallest pacemaker,” said Professor Rogers.



“There’s a crucial need for temporary pacemakers in the context of pediatric heart surgeries, and that’s a use case where size miniaturization is incredibly important. In terms of the device load on the body - the smaller, the better.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solution-designed-for-newborns">Solution designed for newborns</h2>



Though the light-activated pacemaker can function in patients of all sizes, its miniaturized design was motivated by the needs of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infant-speech-is-driven-by-heart-rate-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infants</a>. 



Igor Efimov is a co-leader of the study and experimental cardiologist at Northwestern.&nbsp;



“About 1% of children are born with congenital heart defects. The good news is that these children only need temporary pacing after a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-smallest-robot-could-transform-minimally-invasive-surgery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surgery</a>. In about seven days or so, most patients’ hearts will self-repair. But those seven days are absolutely critical," said Efimov.



Traditional pacemakers require surgery and have wires sticking out of the chest to connect to an external device. When they are no longer needed, the wires are removed - risking bleeding, tissue damage, or even death.



“Wires literally protrude from the body, attached to a pacemaker outside the body,” Efimov explained. “When the pacemaker is no longer needed, a physician pulls it out. The wires can become enveloped in scar tissue. That’s actually how Neil Armstrong died.”



The new injectable pacemaker addresses these risks. All of its components are biocompatible and bioresorbable, meaning they safely dissolve in the body’s fluids without needing surgical removal. Once the device has served its purpose, it simply disappears.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-refining-the-light-activated-pacemaker">Refining the light-activated pacemaker</h2>



This innovation builds on <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41587-021-00948-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earlier work</a> by Rogers and Efimov, who developed a quarter-sized dissolvable pacemaker in 2021. Surgeons asked for a smaller version to allow easier placement and suit the smallest patients.&nbsp;



The original device used near-field communication (NFC), but its antenna limited how small the device could be made. To overcome this, the team replaced the NFC system with a novel light-based mechanism.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pacemaker_light-activated_worlds-smallest_heart-health_Northwestern_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pacemaker_light-activated_worlds-smallest_heart-health_Northwestern_1s.webp" alt="The tiny pacemaker sits next to a single grain of rice on a fingertip. The device is so small that it can be non-invasively injected into the body via a syringe. Credit: John A. Rogers/Northwestern University" class="wp-image-1964846"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The tiny pacemaker sits next to a single grain of rice on a fingertip. The device is so small that it can be non-invasively injected into the body via a syringe. Click image to enlarge. Credit: John A. Rogers/Northwestern University</figcaption></figure>



“Instead of using the radio frequency scheme for wireless control, we developed a light-based scheme for turning the pacemaker on and delivering stimulation pulses to the surface of the heart. This is one feature that allowed us to dramatically reduce the size,” said Professor Rogers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powered-by-the-body-s-own-fluids">Powered by the body’s own fluids</h2>



The engineers also reimagined how to power the tiny pacemaker. Rather than requiring a battery or external power source, the device uses a simple galvanic cell - a chemical battery formed by two different metals as electrodes.&nbsp;



When the device is inside the body, surrounding biofluids act as the electrolyte, allowing electrical current to flow and stimulate the heart.



“A very tiny light-activated switch on the opposite side from the battery allows us to turn the device from its ‘off’ state to an ‘on’ state upon delivery of light that passes through the patient’s body from the skin-mounted patch,” explained Professor Rogers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-trauma-and-risk">Reducing trauma and risk</h2>



Using infrared light, which can safely penetrate deep into the body, the wearable controller detects when a patient’s heart rate falls too low. It then triggers a light-emitting diode (LED) to flash on and off at the desired pacing rhythm.&nbsp;



“Infrared light penetrates very well through the body,” Efimov said. “If you put a flashlight against your palm, you will see the light glow through the other side of your hand. It turns out that our bodies are great conductors of light.”



Despite its microscopic size - just 1.8 mm wide, 3.5 mm long, and 1 mm thick - the pacemaker delivers stimulation on par with traditional devices. “The heart requires a tiny amount of electrical stimulation,” Rogers said.&nbsp;



“By minimizing the size, we dramatically simplify the implantation procedures, we reduce trauma and risk to the patient, and, with the dissolvable nature of the device, we eliminate any need for secondary surgical extraction procedures.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-era-of-heart-care">A new era of heart care</h2>



Because these light-activated pacemakers are so small and wireless, doctors could one day deploy multiple units on different parts of the heart to create more advanced pacing systems. 



Each device could be controlled independently using different light wavelengths, enabling personalized and precisely timed stimulation across the heart’s surface.



“We can deploy a number of such small pacemakers onto the outside of the heart and control each one,” Efimov said. “Then we can achieve improved synchronized functional care.”



Professor Rogers noted that because it’s so small, the pacemaker can be integrated with almost any kind of implantable device.



“We also demonstrated integration of collections of these devices across the frameworks that serve as transcatheter aortic valve replacements to address complications that can occur during a patient’s recovery process," said Rogers.



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



While this breakthrough has clear implications for pediatric heart care, the technology could pave the way for a new generation of bioelectronic medicine.&nbsp;



These tiny, dissolvable devices could one day be adapted to promote nerve and bone regeneration, manage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-meditation-is-a-powerful-weapon-against-chronic-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain</a>, support wound healing, and more.



Northwestern engineers shrank the device and removed risks by making it dissolve after use. In doing so, they’ve created a tool that could reshape how doctors care for the heart - from the tiniest patients to adults.



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Click here to <a href="https://youtu.be/j_0hZ8cUwgo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">watch a video interview...</a>



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08726-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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World's smallest pacemaker is set to revolutionize heart health

In a remarkable medical breakthrough, engineers have developed a light-activated pacemaker so tiny that doctors can inject it into the body through a syringe. Remarkably, the device simply dissolves after it’s no longer needed.&nbsp; Designed for newborns, the pacemaker could transform temporary heart care after congenital defect surgeries. Controlling the heart with light The new pacemaker is smaller than a grain of rice. It's wirelessly activated through pulses of light which are delivered by a soft, wearable device mounted on the patient’s chest. The external controller detects...

Eilat is the southernmost city of Israel, located on the Gulf of Aqaba in the Red Sea. It is known for its warm climate, coral reefs, and vibrant tourism industry.



Each year in March and April, visitors to Eilat can witness a stunning spectacle. The shores turn pink due to millions of tiny crustaceans with large eyes. These organisms, identified as amphipods, belong to the order Amphipoda.



A recent study provides new insight into this unusual phenomenon. The research was led by Professor Tamar Guy-Haim from Israel Oceanographic and Limnological Research (<a href="https://www.ocean.org.il/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IOLR</a>), in collaboration with Dr. Bracha Farstey from the <a href="https://iui-eilat.ac.il" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Interuniversity Institute for Marine Sciences</a> in Eilat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pink-shores-on-the-red-sea">Pink shores on the Red Sea</h2>



The pink color of amphipods comes from carotenoid pigments that they obtain through their diet.



The researchers used an integrative taxonomy approach, combining genetic analysis with morphological identification, to classify these creatures. 



The team also examined environmental factors contributing to their mass mortality, which happens yearly during the same months.



"Like in a detective mystery, we tested several hypotheses," explained Professor Guy-Haim. "Many amphipods exhibit a unique reproductive strategy known as semelparity, where reproduction occurs only once in their lifetime, after which the females die, often simultaneously."



"However, our analyses showed an almost equal ratio of males to females, along with individuals of different sizes, allowing us to rule out semelparity as the root cause."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-stressors-and-amphipod-mortality">Environmental stressors and amphipod mortality</h2>



Climate change and marine heat waves have caused mass die-offs in the past. In the summer of 2017, sea temperatures in Eilat rose by over 4°C in just two and a half days, leading to mass coral reef fish deaths. 



However, the researchers found no unusual temperature spikes during the amphipod mortality events.



"Sometimes, environmental stressors increase susceptibility to parasites and pathogens," noted Professor Guy-Haim. "This has been observed in reef fish and the long-spined sea urchin in Eilat. However, we found no supporting evidence for this hypothesis either."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-possible-natural-cycle">A possible natural cycle</h2>



To dig deeper, the researchers reviewed scientific literature and discovered a similar event from March 1977. Back then, amphipods covered the shores of Aqaba in large numbers, suggesting this phenomenon might be part of a natural cycle.



Previous studies in the Gulf of Aqaba have documented ocean currents known as eddies. These circular currents can either bring deep, nutrient-rich waters to the surface (upwelling) or push surface water downward (downwelling).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amphipods-in-strong-ocean-currents">Amphipods in strong ocean currents</h2>



In the Northern Hemisphere, cyclonic eddies rotate counterclockwise, pulling deep waters to the surface. In the northern Gulf of Aqaba, these currents strengthen between November and April, becoming up to ten times faster than normal surface currents.



"We hypothesize that the amphipods were trapped in a cyclonic eddy in the northern Gulf and transported by the currents toward the shore," explained Professor Guy-Haim.



"In Hawaii, a mass mortality event of the same amphipod species was documented following the formation of a cyclonic eddy." 



"This is currently our leading hypothesis, but further research is needed to better understand the relationship between current dynamics and such phenomena in the Gulf of Aqaba and other marine systems worldwide."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amphipods-role-in-marine-ecosystems">Amphipods' role in marine ecosystems</h2>



Amphipods hold an essential place in marine food webs. They serve as a food source for fish, seabirds, and even whales. Understanding their life cycle and movement patterns helps researchers study larger ecological processes in marine environments.



This ongoing research could reveal more about the natural forces shaping marine life. Future studies may offer deeper insight into how ocean currents influence marine species worldwide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-impacts-on-marine-biodiversity">Potential impacts on marine biodiversity</h2>



When large numbers of amphipods die, it can affect the ocean ecosystem in different ways.



If too many amphipods disappear, animals that eat them - like fish and seabirds - might struggle to find enough food. This could change how these animals feed and survive.



Scientists are studying whether these deaths harm local marine life or if animals have adapted to this cycle over time. If this happens regularly, some species might rely on these seasonal die-offs as a food source.



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



Understanding amphipod population dynamics in the Red Sea can help scientists monitor broader ecological trends. 



Researchers plan to continue tracking amphipod movements and mortality patterns in the Gulf of Aqaba. They aim to determine whether these events are purely natural or if human activities and climate shifts play a role.



Future studies could focus on how amphipods respond to environmental stress and whether their deaths influence marine food webs. With better data, scientists can predict changes in marine ecosystems and protect species affected by shifting ocean conditions.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ece3.70949" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology and Evolution</a>.



Image Credit: Omri Amosi, Israel Nature and Parks Authority



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Why the shores of the Red Sea turn pink every year

Eilat is the southernmost city of Israel, located on the...

Scientists have long suspected that unusually rapid changes in our DNA might hold the key to brain evolution.



Researchers have now <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08622-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">found</a> that certain stretches of our <a href="https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Chromosome" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chromosomes</a> changed more rapidly over time than seen during typical evolution, which may have influenced how our brain’s nerve cells form <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/subtle-dna-changes-shaped-human-brain-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complex connections</a>. 



The research was led by Professor Yin Shen from the <a href="https://weill.ucsf.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences</a> and the UCSF Institute for Human Genetics. Her team performed experiments on artificial brain cells from humans and chimpanzees to see which genetic features set us apart.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fast-evolving-dna-and-brain-development">Fast-evolving DNA and brain development</h2>



Fast-changing chromosomal regions, known as human accelerated regions (<a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abm1696" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HARs</a>), differ significantly between people and chimpanzees. Experts believe these areas might have helped shape the advanced thinking and language skills that define our species.



Some of these regions appear to influence how neurons send and receive signals. Shen’s group used cutting-edge genetic approaches to find out why these DNA stretches, HARs, had such a strong effect on <a href="https://qbi.uq.edu.au/brain/brain-anatomy/what-neuron" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neuron</a> function.



The team noted that small edits within these regions might have caused a big jump in brain complexity, which could explain the advent of human creativity and problem-solving. It also raises questions about whether these gains come with possible trade-offs in mental health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neurite-connections-and-complexity">Neurite connections and complexity</h2>



The researchers noticed that human nerve cells grow multiple <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/neurite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neurites</a>, which are tiny branches that help with communication between cells. Chimpanzee neurons in the same setting grew fewer branches, which suggests a more streamlined network.



“More neurites during development could mean more complexity in our neural networks. These networks facilitate the transmission of signals in the nervous system and support our higher cognitive functions,” explained Shen.



The investigations revealed that tweaking chimp cells to include human HARs triggered more <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsif.2023.0265" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">branching</a>. The differences hint that our ancestors’ DNA picked up precise mutations that amped up the <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07558-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neuronal wiring</a> of the brain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-and-risks-of-rapid-brain-evolution">Benefits and risks of rapid brain evolution</h2>



Researchers point out that advanced wiring may come at a cost. Some HARs appear to link with genes that show up in certain mental conditions, suggesting that our unique cognitive edge might also come paired with vulnerability to certain mental illnesses. 



Genes like <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16172381/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NPAS3</a> have been tied to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-time-and-space-interact-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain development</a> and mental health conditions. Subtle changes in HARs near NPAS3 could shift how much of the gene gets turned on or off in early stages of neuron growth.



The group also examined regions that influence <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12368809/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SOCS2</a>, which is connected to neurite outgrowth. Variations in these areas might change how nerve cells shape themselves, possibly swinging the balance between boosting intelligence and elevating the odds of neurological disorders.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-the-1-difference">Beyond the 1% difference</h2>



<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08622-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Studies</a> have estimated that humans and chimpanzees share about 98-99% of their DNA. That small gap includes HARs, which set the stage for distinctive thought processes, social behavior, and more advanced language skills.



This shift in our <a href="https://www.genome.gov/human-genome-project" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genomic blueprint</a> is believed to have unfolded relatively fast in evolutionary time. Slight tweaks in just a few spots can have outsized impacts on neuron structure and brain wiring.



Shen’s experiments used modern genetic engineering to introduce human HARs into chimp cells. Watching those <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/search/research-news/1912/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lab-grown neurons</a> form new branches helped confirm how these DNA elements shape connectivity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-on-dna-and-brain-function">Future research on DNA and brain function</h2>



The scientists are excited about exploring whether changes in these regions hold clues to unexplored cognitive abilities. They want to see whether specific HAR variants spread more quickly than others among early humans.



The researchers are also investigating whether certain DNA shifts might drive differences in brain development across various populations. This could reveal why some communities have increased or decreased risks of suffering brain-related conditions.



Further work will likely look at how HAR-based alterations influence gene interactions in living brains. That might help scientists pinpoint when these genetic quirks first appeared and how they spread in human ancestors.



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



This laboratory approach offers a peek at how subtle DNA changes can rewrite the instructions for assembling our brains. By comparing the DNA in human and chimpanzee cells, scientists can help map our evolutionary path.



The researchers hope that these findings may guide therapies for disorders linked to abnormal neuron connections. Understanding which DNA sites boost or hamper neurite growth might open opportunities to target them in conditions like autism and related syndromes.



The real excitement lies in how these studies bridge the gap between basic biology and the possibility of medical advances. If scientists can pinpoint how these fast-evolving regions shape neurons, they might uncover ways to preserve healthy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-brain-literally-changes-based-on-daily-activities-and-lifestyle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain networks</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dna-research-may-shape-brain-health">DNA research may shape brain health</h2>



Researchers envision a time when analyzing HARs becomes routine in identifying early risk markers for certain developmental issues. A single genetic misstep in these areas might cause a ripple effect on how brain cells wire to each other.



The next steps may include testing potential treatments that regulate the expression of crucial genes tied to neuron branching. That might reduce the impact of disruptions that hamper normal growth or communication in the brain.



The research also encourages us to consider our species' rapid rise in intelligence. Speedy edits in a small stretch of code may have set us on a path to become the tool-making, idea-sharing beings we are today.



The study, which was funded by the National Institutes of Health, is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08622-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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DNA changes supercharged the human brain - but at a cost

Scientists have long suspected that unusually rapid changes in our...

The past century has witnessed a dramatic increase in wildfires, particularly in the western regions of the United States, where once-seasonal blazes have escalated into year-round occurrences.



Just within the past decade, raging flames have devoured millions of acres, destroyed communities, and released staggering amounts of carbon into the atmosphere - exacerbating the very conditions that fuel more fires.



The increasing number of wildfires is not just an act of nature. The fires are the result of a lethal cocktail of factors including global warming, drought, and well-intentioned but deficient fire suppression efforts.



These factors have collectively spawned a real-life monster - a "fire deficit." This is brought on by an alarming imbalance in which excess dead wood and dry vegetation build up over time and create dangerously combustible conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-approach-to-wildfire-prevention">Scientific approach to wildfire prevention</h2>



Well-regarded for its advanced research initiatives, <a href="https://www.fau.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Atlantic University</a> has taken on this growing problem. 



A team of scientists at the institution has been exploring how the strategic removal of dead wood - one of the primary fuels driving intense wildfires - can not only mitigate fire risk but also enhance carbon storage, creating a win-win scenario for both forest health and climate resilience.



The research looks into the intricate balance between reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-wildfires-have-doubled-in-the-last-20-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fire hazards</a> and maintaining ecological integrity, as they search for interventions that are both effective and sustainable.



The study focuses particularly on the Sierra Nevada region, a biodiversity hotspot where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-persistent-droughts-will-impact-wildlife-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prolonged droughts</a> and rising temperatures have exacerbated fire risks. In this region, both natural ecosystems and nearby communities are threatened.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-indigenous-inspired-forest-management">Indigenous-inspired forest management</h2>



The scientists found inspiration in the practices of the Indigenous Peoples of the Western U.S. For thousands of years, these communities have ingeniously <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indigenous-forests-prevent-15-million-yearly-cases-of-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">managed forests</a>, using methods such as controlled, low-severity burns and harvesting non-timber forest products.



This rich heritage of forest management has shaped ecosystems and has provided a solid basis for modern techniques that the team at Florida Atlantic University have been exploring.



The researchers tested the efficacy of several different forest management strategies. Eight different treatments were tested for their potential effects on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-risks-not-commonly-disclosed-by-u-s-companies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfire risks</a>. They were juxtaposed with a "control" scenario that included only wildfire.



The treatments ranged from thinning vegetation to physical removal of surface fuel and prescribed burning, either alone or in combination.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dead-wood-removal-and-forest-resilience">Dead wood removal and forest resilience </h2>



The results of the study are quite promising. They suggest that combining physical removal of dead wood with thinning of vegetation can reduce risks like tree mortality and crown fires significantly.



This proactive approach could, in theory, decrease carbon emissions and aid in carbon storage through the creation of biochar, a charcoal produced from organic material in a low-oxygen environment.



"In our increasingly warming world with frequent dangerous fire weather, more people and structures at risk in the wildland-urban interface, health risks from exposure to smoke, and need to enhance carbon sequestration to mitigate global warming, scientists need to examine effective alternative management actions," said study co-author Dr. Scott H. Markwith.



"By combining physical harvesting with thinning – removing smaller or fire-vulnerable trees – evidence from this research suggests we can help restore healthy, resilient forests."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fire-prevention-and-carbon-storage">Fire prevention and carbon storage</h2>



The team at Florida Atlantic University emphasized the potential advantages of this approach which, apart from reducing smoke and wildfire severity, could also generate carbon credits.



"Over time, repeated fuel reduction treatments, such as prescribed burns, can emit more carbon than a single wildfire in an untreated forest. However, by harvesting dead wood and converting it into biochar – a stable form of carbon – emissions can be reduced," noted study lead author Dr. Rabindra Parajuli.



The researchers agree on the necessity of continued, long-term research, including simulation modeling and field experiments, to evaluate the effectiveness of the approach across various forest types and over time.



These efforts represent a strategic investment in our planet's future - a route towards restoring historic wildfire regimes and enhancing the health and resilience of forests in the western United States and beyond.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0301479725005110?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Environmental Management</a>.



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Dead wood removal can save forests from future wildfires

The past century has witnessed a dramatic increase in wildfires,...

A cutting-edge artificial intelligence system promises to help protect elephants in Malaysia from illegal hunting. 



By blending predictive analytics with insights into elephant behavior, the technology aims to shield these animals from escalating threats that have long jeopardized their survival.



Developed through a collaborative effort at <a href="https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cardiff University</a>, PoachNet combines <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-learning-can-help-track-changes-in-forest-cover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deep learning</a>, GPS-based data, and ecological insights to gauge and mitigate poaching hazards.&nbsp;



The tool has been designed specifically to forecast where elephants are most likely to be found and then assess each location’s risk level, offering a proactive approach that goes beyond routine surveillance.



Scientists from the School of Computer Science and Informatics and the School of Biosciences worked together to construct a platform capable of learning from historical elephant movement patterns and detecting threats in near-real time.&nbsp;



By applying advanced machine-learning techniques, the research team can predict where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/african-elephants-have-drastically-declined-in-the-last-50-years/">elephants</a> are headed, identify hazardous zones, and assist on-the-ground teams in allocating resources effectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-better-way-to-protect-elephants-nbsp">A better way to protect elephants&nbsp;</h2>



Central to PoachNet’s operation is a knowledge graph that compiles diverse information about elephant movements and known risk factors. This structured repository is linked to a specialized machine-learning model that interprets data from elephant GPS trackers.&nbsp;



“Elephant GPS data is analyzed with a special type of AI - a sequential neural network - to predict their movements," explained study lead author Naeima Hamed, a PhD student at Cardiff.



"These predictions are added to the knowledge graph in a meaningful way - then PoachNet uses a rule-based system to apply poaching rules and detect hidden patterns in the data." 



The platform’s predictive ability sets it apart from more conventional methods of wildlife protection.&nbsp;



“We found that, when tested, PoachNet was more accurate than other leading methods, consistently performing better. By handling the complexity of time and space data and turning predictions into practical rules, PoachNet offers a big improvement in tracking and protecting elephants,” said Hamed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-poaching-before-it-happens">Predicting poaching before it happens</h2>



Before PoachNet, strategies to curb poaching often relied on single approaches - such as analyzing ranger patrol logs or examining evidence captured by camera traps.&nbsp;



However, these methods do not always account for the dynamic ways elephants move or the full spectrum of human impacts on their habitats. 



PoachNet integrates broader knowledge of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-lockdowns-had-unexpected-impacts-on-wildlife-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife behavior</a>, enabling the system to recognize emergent patterns that may indicate an imminent poaching threat.



The project’s designers hope that by identifying where elephants are most at risk, authorities in Sabah can mobilize anti-poaching patrols and camera traps in the most vulnerable areas.&nbsp;



This targeted response could lead to more efficient use of conservation resources, focusing on regions where illegal activity is statistically more likely to occur.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-for-conservation">Broader implications for conservation</h2>



Study co-author Omer Rana from Cardiff’s School of Computer Science and Informatics highlighted the system’s potential to extend beyond elephant conservation in Malaysia.&nbsp;



“PoachNet is a unique software tool that integrates semantically modeled regional data sources with emerging machine learning algorithms and semantic reasoning. PoachNet addresses a challenge that continues to affect communities supporting endangered species,” said Rana.



“Both climate change and economics are leading to significant impact across this interface between human activity and natural habitats. The data-driven approach adopted in PoachNet can also be generalized to support other similar localities and national parks - enabling more efficient use of law enforcement and government resources.”



While PoachNet is currently attuned to Bornean elephants, the underlying architecture could be adapted to protect various endangered species worldwide, as each instance might require only modest adjustments in the knowledge graph and relevant predictive models.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-need-to-protect-elephants">Urgent need to protect elephants</h2>



Efforts to shield Bornean elephants from poaching have never been more critical. As habitat areas shrink and the illegal ivory trade persists, these animals face a grim reality.&nbsp;



According to co-author Benoit Goossens, a scientist at Cardiff University’s School of Biosciences and director of the <a href="https://www.danaugirang.com.my/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Danau Girang Field Center</a>, “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/koalas-face-critical-threats-from-disease-and-habitat-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat loss</a>, human-elephant conflict, and poaching threaten Bornean elephants.&nbsp;



“Despite global anti-poaching efforts, the illegal ivory trade continues to drive poaching, reducing the population to fewer than 1500. We hope that PoachNet can assist in poaching prevention methods, therefore helping to ensure the safety of the elephant population in Sabah for the future.”



Given that traditional mechanisms to combat poaching must constantly evolve, there is an urgent need for innovative solutions like PoachNet that incorporate modern technologies and up-to-date ecological knowledge.&nbsp;



By matching predictive models with ground-level patrolling and international regulatory measures, the system could help reverse some of the most destructive trends endangering these elephants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-wildlife-protection">The future of wildlife protection </h2>



In the long term, the research team plans to enhance PoachNet by introducing additional data sources. 



This could involve tapping into acoustic sensors that detect gunshots or vehicle noises, as well as using satellite imagery to keep track of land-use changes and growing human activities. 



Such expansions would feed the system with even more contextual information, improving its predictive power and enabling faster, more decisive responses.



The ultimate objective is to give conservation authorities an advanced tool capable of anticipating illegal activities, thereby reducing the risk to Bornean elephants and potentially other species in peril.&nbsp;



By blending scientific rigor, state-of-the-art AI, and on-the-ground intelligence, PoachNet represents a considerable step forward in wildlife protection strategies.



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



As poaching incidents continue to imperil elephant populations, the hope is that this novel system will allow for data-driven vigilance, pinpointing threats before they escalate into irreversible harm.&nbsp;



With more accurate forecasts and the flexibility to adapt to new conditions, PoachNet may well serve as a blueprint for conservation efforts aimed at preserving some of Earth’s most iconic and vulnerable animals.



Details of this system appear in the research paper, “PoachNet: Predicting Poaching Using an Ontology-Based Knowledge Graph,” published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/24/24/8142" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sensors</a>.&nbsp;



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New era in wildlife conservation: How AI will help protect elephants

A cutting-edge artificial intelligence system promises to help protect elephants...

The ocean isn’t just a vast expanse of blue - it’s alive, constantly shifting, breathing, churning, and now weakening in critical ways. The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), a colossal conveyor belt of warm and cold water, keeps weather patterns in check, stabilizes temperatures, and even dictates rainfall in distant corners of the world.



But now, this large system of currents in the Atlantic Ocean is weakening and slowing down. And that could spell disaster.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-delicate-balancing-act">A delicate balancing act</h2>



Think of the AMOC as Earth’s natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/critical-ocean-current-may-be-more-stable-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate regulator</a>. It moves warm water from the tropics up toward Europe, keeping winters there milder than they otherwise would be. 



Meanwhile, colder water flows back south, helping maintain equilibrium. This system is ancient, powerful, and - until recently -remarkably reliable. Now, something is shifting. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unsettling-signs-of-weakening-ocean-currents">Unsettling signs of weakening ocean currents </h2>



Scientists have observed an unusual cooling area in the North Atlantic, often called a "cold blob." This is unexpected because, as the planet warms, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/collapse-of-main-atlantic-ocean-circulaton-current-amoc-is-already-happening/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a> temperatures should generally rise, not drop.



This cold patch suggests a deeper problem linked to the Gulf Stream, which is a key part of the AMOC. The Gulf Stream normally carries warm water northward, but if it slows down or weakens, less warm water reaches the region, causing unexpected cooling.



The effects of this disruption go beyond the ocean. It can change wind patterns, shift where and how much rain falls, and make extreme weather - like storms, droughts, and heatwaves - more frequent and severe. 



These changes can impact agriculture, infrastructure, and daily life worldwide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-price-of-a-weakening-amoc">Price of a weakening AMOC</h2>



A team of researchers from the University of Hamburg's Cluster of Excellence for Climate Research (<a href="https://www.cliccs.uni-hamburg.de" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CLICCS</a>) and the <a href="https://mpimet.mpg.de/en/homepage" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Meteorology</a> has taken a closer look at the potential consequences. 



Their conclusion? The economic toll of a weakened AMOC could run into trillions of euros by the end of the century.



This isn’t just about changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atlantic-current-system-may-collapse-by-2037/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean temperature</a>. A sluggish AMOC means more heatwaves, longer droughts, fiercer storms. Infrastructure will buckle, food systems will strain, and insurance costs will skyrocket.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-ocean-current-weakening">Science behind ocean current weakening</h2>



The AMOC relies on the sinking of dense, salty water in the North Atlantic to keep its cycle going. 



But as Arctic ice melts, massive amounts of freshwater pour into the ocean. This dilutes the salt levels, making the water less dense. When that happens, the sinking slows, and so does the AMOC.



And it’s not just about the ocean’s movement. With less water being pulled into the depths, more carbon dioxide lingers in the atmosphere. That means more heat trapped leading to more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atlantic-and-arctic-mixing-is-crucial-for-earths-climate-stability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate chaos</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flawed-assumptions-costly-mistakes">Flawed assumptions, costly mistakes</h2>



For years, some economic models suggested that a weaker AMOC might actually help cool the Northern Hemisphere, acting as a counterweight to global warming. That assumption no longer holds.



"Our findings indicate that previous studies on AMOC weakening most likely underestimated the economic impacts," noted Felix Schaumann, a climate economist and co-author of the study.



In other words, what seemed like a potential silver lining is, in reality, another storm cloud forming on the horizon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-the-future">Predicting the future</h2>



To understand what’s coming, the researchers used climate and economic models to simulate different scenarios. They compared a world where the AMOC stays strong to one where it weakens at various rates.



The results weren’t encouraging. The weaker the AMOC, the less carbon the ocean absorbs, and the faster climate change accelerates. The cost of inaction? Staggering.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chain-reaction-of-consequences">Chain reaction of consequences</h2>



A weakened AMOC doesn’t just affect temperatures. It throws entire ecosystems off balance.



Fisheries that rely on predictable ocean currents could collapse. Crops accustomed to steady rainfall patterns may wither under unexpected droughts. Coastal communities will face rising sea levels, while storms become more violent and erratic.



Each of these effects compounds the next. The economy, already under pressure from rising global temperatures, will strain even further.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-crossroads-for-policy">A crossroads for policy</h2>



There’s no easy fix. But there are choices to be made.



Slowing carbon emissions is the most immediate step. Investing in renewable energy, strengthening coastal defenses, and improving climate resilience in vulnerable regions are no longer optional - they’re essential.



The AMOC has existed for thousands of years, shaping life as we know it. If it falters, the world will feel the consequences. The question now is whether we act before it's too late.



The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation isn’t just another <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disastrous-climate-changes-of-the-last-ice-age-could-happen-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate variable</a>. It’s the backbone of the planet’s climate system. If AMOC weakens, the effects will be widespread, costly, and potentially irreversible.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2419543122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



Image Credit: CEN Climate Visualization Laboratory



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Weakening ocean currents could cost trillions of dollars

The ocean isn’t just a vast expanse of blue -...

Flowers do more than brighten gardens and decorate tables. Their scent - sweet, musky, or sometimes citrusy - isn’t just for human enjoyment. It’s a luring message, a chemical whisper meant for pollinators.



For years, scientists have tried to crack the genetic code behind floral fragrance, and now, a research team has found a crucial piece of the puzzle.



Led by Professor Alexander Vainstein at <a href="https://en.huji.ac.il" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Hebrew University</a> of Jerusalem, the study reveals that a single gene, PhDEF, pulls double duty. It doesn’t just shape the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flowers-as-food-how-ultrasound-makes-it-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">petals</a>; it also controls the flower’s scent. 



This discovery could reshape agriculture, horticulture, and even biotechnology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-petal-shape-and-scent-in-flowers">Linking petal shape and scent in flowers</h2>



The study flips the script on what we thought PhDEF did. This gene was always known for defining petal identity, but researchers discovered another, unexpected function - it helps flowers <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/corpse-flowers-amorphophallus-titanum-smell-like-death-but-thousands-rush-to-see-them-bloom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">produce scent</a>.



And not just at any time. PhDEF kicks in later in flower development, orchestrating the release of compounds that attract pollinators.



Using genetic analysis and viral-induced gene silencing, the research team tested what would happen if PhDEF was turned off.



The result? A dramatic drop in floral fragrance. Petunias that once filled the air with their scent suddenly became undetectable, their chemical signals lost.



"Our findings show that PhDEF is not just responsible for defining petal identity but also for coordinating the production of scent compounds critical for pollination," said Professor Vainstein. 



"This dual functionality suggests that petunia flowers have evolved an integrated regulatory mechanism to optimize their attraction to pollinators."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scent-production-in-flowers">Scent production in flowers</h2>



PhDEF does not act alone in controlling floral scent. The experts identified it as a key regulator that activates two other important genetic regulators, EOBI and EOBII. These regulators then control a set of genes responsible for producing and releasing floral scent compounds.



Think of PhDEF as a master switch. When it is active, it triggers a chain reaction. First, it turns on EOBI and EOBII, which then activate other genes involved in scent production. This process leads to the creation and emission of molecules like methyl benzoate and benzyl alcohol - compounds that give flowers their characteristic fragrance.



To test PhDEF’s role, the scientists silenced it in petunias. The result was striking: the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-bees-value-quality-over-quantity-in-flower-selection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flowers</a> lost most of their scent, but their petal shape remained unchanged. This proved that scent production and petal formation, though both controlled by PhDEF, are separate processes.



The discovery suggests that floral fragrance can be modified through genetic changes without altering the flower’s physical appearance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-this-means-for-flowers-and-crops">What this means for flowers and crops</h2>



Imagine flowers bred for beauty but stripped of their fragrance, such as roses that look stunning but smell like nothing.



Many commercial varieties have suffered this fate. But now, with PhDEF in the spotlight, scientists might be able to bring scent back to flowers bred for aesthetics.



The implications extend beyond ornamental plants. Many crops depend on pollinators, and enhancing floral scent could increase their attractiveness to bees and other essential pollinators. Stronger scents might mean better yields, more reliable pollination, and greater stability for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-of-life-created-for-flowering-plants-using-400-million-specimens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agriculture</a>.



The fragrance industry, too, could benefit. By tweaking PhDEF and its related pathways, bioengineers could craft flowers with specific scent profiles, creating natural perfumes tailored to human preferences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-s-fine-tuned-balance">Nature’s fine-tuned balance</h2>



This discovery adds another layer to our understanding of plant biology. It shows how nature optimizes every detail, ensuring that flowers not only look appealing but also produce the right chemical signals at the right time. 



The genetic link between petal formation and scent production reveals a carefully balanced system - one that could have applications far beyond what we see today.



"This discovery advances our knowledge of plant biology and offers potential applications for breeding more resilient and pollinator-friendly crops," said Professor Vainstein.



Science continues to pull back the curtain on nature’s secrets. With every breakthrough, we move closer to harnessing these intricate systems - whether to create more fragrant flowers, improve pollination, or develop new scents for industry.



The more we learn, the more we realize that nothing in nature is accidental. It’s all part of a finely tuned symphony, playing out in every garden, field, and greenhouse.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/plcell/article/37/2/koaf027/8003630" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Plant Cell</a>.



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Flowers get their shape and scent from a single gene

Flowers do more than brighten gardens and decorate tables. Their...

Plastic pollution has long been a concern in oceans, rivers, and soil, but a new study reveals its presence in an unexpected place - the lungs of birds.



Tiny plastic particles drifting through the air are making their way into the respiratory systems of birds, raising concerns about how deeply plastic contamination has infiltrated ecosystems.



The study, conducted by researchers at the <a href="https://www.uta.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Texas</a> at Arlington, highlights how widespread <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-plastics-linked-to-disability-risks-for-coastal-residents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> have become in the environment. 



Scientists have been increasingly worried about the impact of these pollutants, not just on wildlife but also on human health.



The air people breathe and the food they consume may contain more plastic than previously thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds-as-living-environmental-sensors">Birds as living environmental sensors</h2>



Shane DuBay, an assistant professor of biology at UTA and co-author of the study, explained why birds were chosen for the research. 



"Birds serve as important indicators of environmental conditions," said Professor DuBay. "They help us understand the state of the environment and make informed decisions about conservation and pollution control."



Birds live everywhere, from busy cities to quiet forests, so they are useful for studying pollution. Since they travel long distances, scientists can see how pollution spreads across different areas.



Birds share many spaces with humans, which means that their exposure to airborne <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-treaty-is-a-historic-opportunity-to-stop-a-human-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> may indicate similar risks for people.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-contamination-in-bird-lungs">Plastic contamination in bird lungs</h2>



To understand the extent of plastic contamination in bird lungs, the researchers examined 56 wild birds from 51 different species.



All specimens came from the Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in western China. The location provided a controlled setting where birds from various backgrounds interacted with human-made environments.



Scientists extracted lung samples and performed chemical tests to detect microplastics and even smaller nanoplastics. One method, laser direct infrared technology, helped count microplastic particles lodged in the lung tissue. 



Another method, pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, identified nanoplastics that could enter the bloodstream through inhalation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shocking-levels-of-plastic-detected">Shocking levels of plastic detected</h2>



The results of the study were alarming. Scientists found large amounts of tiny <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-pollution-is-changing-the-entire-earth-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic particles</a>, known as microplastics, inside the lungs of birds.



On average, each bird species had about 221 plastic particles in their lungs. When measured by weight, the researchers found 416 plastic particles per gram of lung tissue. The most common types of plastic were chlorinated polyethylene, used for coating wires and pipes, and butadiene rubber, which is found in car tires.



This means plastic is not just polluting water and soil - it is also floating in the air. If birds are breathing in these tiny plastic pieces, it raises concerns about what might be happening to humans.



People live in the same environments as birds, especially in cities. If birds are inhaling plastic, humans likely are too - without even knowing it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risks-of-airborne-plastic-in-birds">Risks of airborne plastic in birds</h2>



There is no set rule for how much <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-interlinked-crisis-of-plastic-pollution-and-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic</a> in the lungs is considered safe. However, past research has shown that breathing in tiny plastic particles may cause serious health problems.



Scientists think inhaling plastic could lead to lung diseases, heart problems, and even cancer. Persistent exposure to plastic might also affect fertility and weaken the immune system.



Once plastic gets inside the body, it can build up in tissues, possibly causing long-term damage or inflammation. Some plastics also contain harmful chemicals that could interfere with how the body works.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-plastic-crisis">Growing plastic crisis</h2>



Professor DuBay emphasized the urgent need to combat plastic pollution before it causes irreversible damage.



"Our research highlights an urgent need to address plastic pollution in our environments, as these contaminants can have far-reaching impacts on ecosystem health, as well as human health," he said.



The study makes one thing clear - plastic waste isn’t just piling up in landfills or floating in the ocean. It’s in the air, drifting unseen, finding its way into the lungs of both birds and humans. Cutting back on plastic pollution is no longer just an environmental goal - it’s an urgent necessity.



Scientists need more research, more funding, more answers. How much plastic is truly in the air? What long-term damage does it cause? Until these questions are answered, the best step forward is simple: stop the spread before it gets worse.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0304389425001864?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Hazardous Materials</a>.



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Birds are breathing in plastic - what does that mean for us?

Plastic pollution has long been a concern in oceans, rivers,...

Obesity has become a major health issue worldwide, impacting millions of people and straining healthcare systems. While poor diet and lack of exercise are often blamed, the biological processes behind obesity are more complex.



Recent research highlights the role of the brain and its sensitivity to insulin as a key factor in weight gain and metabolic disorders. The study offers new insights into the connection between obesity, insulin resistance, and brain function.



The research was conducted by scientists at the <a href="https://www.medizin.uni-tuebingen.de/en-de/das-klinikum" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University Hospital of Tübingen</a>, in collaboration with the German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD) and Helmholtz Munich.



The findings suggest that even short-term changes in diet can significantly impact insulin sensitivity in the brain, potentially increasing the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-scope-of-the-obesity-problem">The scope of the obesity problem</h2>



Despite being officially recognized as a disease since 2020, obesity has been a health concern for a considerable time due to its correlation with severe illnesses. 



Health complications associated with obesity range from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-diabetes-rate-has-doubled-reaching-over-800-million/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diabetes</a> to heart attacks, and in certain cases, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obesity-is-linked-to-32-cancer-types-that-could-drive-40-of-cases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a>.



According to the World Health Organization, obesity isn't a problem - it's an epidemic, impacting over one billion people worldwide and roughly sixteen million in Germany. 



At the root of obesity often lies extreme body mass indexes (30 or more) majorly credited to unhealthy diets and inadequate exercise. But, there's much more to the chronicles of obesity than meets the eye.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insulin-s-role-in-the-brain-and-obesity">Insulin's role in the brain and obesity</h2>



Unhealthy body fat distribution and sustained weight gain, scientists have discovered, are tied to the brain's reaction to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/physical-activity-curbs-insulin-production/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insulin</a>. 



But what is insulin's specific role in the brain, and how does it impact individuals who maintain a normal weight? 



Researchers at Tübingen University Hospital for Diabetology, Endocrinology, and Nephrology, led by Professor Stephanie Kullmann, unraveled this mystery.



"Our findings demonstrate for the first time that even a brief consumption of highly processed, unhealthy foods (such as chocolate bars and potato chips) causes a significant alteration in the brain of healthy individuals, which may be the initial cause of obesity and type 2 diabetes," said Professor Kullmann.



In a healthy state, insulin in the brain suppresses appetite. However, in obese individuals, this regulation falters, leading to insulin resistance. 



"Interestingly, in our healthy study participants, the brain shows a similar decrease in sensitivity to insulin after a short-term high calorie intake as in people with obesity. This effect can even be observed one week after returning to a balanced diet," noted Professor Kullmann.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-the-lens-to-the-brain">Shifting the lens to the brain</h2>



Dr. Andreas Birkenfeld emphasized the need for further research into the brain's role in obesity and other metabolic diseases.



"We assume that the brain's insulin response adapts to short-term changes in diet before any weight gain occurs and thus promotes the development of obesity and other secondary diseases," said Dr. Birkenfield.



To test their hypotheses, Professor Kullmann and her team enlisted 29 average weight male volunteers. 



Half of the group had to supplement their diet with high-calorie, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/health-risks-of-ultra-processed-foods-revealed-in-30-year-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">processed food</a> for five consecutive days. The control group did not change their diets.



Using MRI, the researchers compared liver fat content and brain insulin sensitivity in both groups. The result? An unsettling discovery.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-short-term-choices-long-term-impact">Short term choices, long term impact</h2>



The group that had an increased calorie intake exhibited not only a significant increase in liver fat content but also a drastic decrease in brain insulin sensitivity, even after returning to their normal diet. This effect was previously associated only with people who were obese.



With these results, the research team from Tübingen University Hospital has successfully shed light on insulin's role in the brain as it pertains to obesity.



They have opened the door for new perspectives, emphasizing the power of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/junk-food-diet-triggers-lasting-changes-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diet and its effects on our brain</a>, and in turn, our overall health.



The findings suggest that even brief dietary indulgences can have long-lasting consequences on metabolic function, reinforcing the importance of mindful eating habits.



By understanding how short-term dietary choices influence brain insulin sensitivity, future interventions may focus on reversing these effects before they contribute to obesity and related disorders.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s42255-025-01226-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Metabolism</a>.



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Why is obesity difficult to reverse? It starts in the brain

Obesity has become a major health issue worldwide, impacting millions...

Coral reefs - vivid, bustling cities beneath the sea - are in trouble. Warming oceans, pollution, and human interference have put them on the brink. But a quieter, less obvious threat is making things worse. The loss of sharks, the ocean’s apex predators, may be triggering outbreaks of coral-eating crown-of-thorns starfish.



These outbreaks, in turn, accelerate the destruction of already struggling reef systems.



Scientists from The University of Western Australia's Oceans Institute and the Australian Institute of Marine Science (<a href="https://www.aims.gov.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AIMS</a>) took a deep dive into this mystery. They found a surprising link between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sharks-may-benefit-from-rising-temperatures-but-not-from-rising-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shark</a> fishing, shifting fish behavior, and surging starfish populations. 



The study sheds new light on the fragile balance of reef ecosystems - and the consequences of disrupting it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rise-of-a-coral-killer">Rise of a coral killer</h2>



Crown-of-thorns starfish aren’t new to coral reefs. In small numbers, they help maintain balance, preventing a single coral species from taking over. 



But when their numbers explode, these starfish become a menace, devouring coral at an alarming rate and leaving behind skeletal, lifeless reefs.



"Coral reefs around the world are in crisis and outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish are seen as one of the key contributors," Dr. Meekan said. "Recurrent outbreaks are adding to the decline of live coral cover across the Indo-Pacific."



For decades, researchers have searched for reasons behind these population booms. Climate change, nutrient pollution, and natural cycles were suspected culprits. Now, there's another piece to the puzzle - one that begins with sharks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sharks-keep-the-food-chain-in-check">Sharks keep the food chain in check</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/whale-shark-mating-behaviors-observed-for-the-first-time-in-the-wild/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sharks</a> rule the reef, keeping everything beneath them in line. Their presence forces smaller predatory fish like snappers and emperors to stick close to the seabed, where they hunt crabs, worms, and, crucially, young crown-of-thorns starfish. 



When sharks disappear, those smaller fish move up into the open water, chasing different prey.



"Through recent DNA studies, we knew lots of smaller predatory fish sometimes consumed crown-of-thorns starfish, but we didn't know how frequently this happened and if it could control outbreaks," Dr. Meekan said. 



"Our insights show the presence of sharks might determine when this control occurs."



Take sharks out of the equation, and the entire system shifts. The once-grounded hunters now roam freely, snatching squid and smaller fish instead. The invertebrates they used to eat are left unchecked.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-shifts-lead-to-starfish-explosions">Diet shifts lead to starfish explosions</h2>



The change happens quickly. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/whale-sharks-use-offshore-oil-rigs-as-food-stops-during-migration-harming-conservation-efforts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sharks</a> vanish, and smaller predators find themselves free to venture beyond the reef floor. 



Their diet changes and they grow faster. Meanwhile, crown-of-thorns starfish, no longer a staple in their meals, thrive. More larvae survive. More starfish mature. Soon, they blanket the reef, stripping it of coral.



"When sharks are present, smaller species are forced to feed close to the safety of coral on the seabed and, as a result, their diet is focused on things like crabs, worms and starfish," said Dr. Lester.



"But when sharks are removed by fishing, they are able to safely venture up into the water column and mostly feed on pelagic prey, like small fish and squid. Fish that change their diet in this way grow faster - but the invertebrates they used to feed on have a chance to multiply rapidly."



It's a chain reaction - one change leads to another. A shift in diet creates a gap in predation, and before long, an outbreak emerges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-shark-fishing-weaker-reef-ecosystems">More shark fishing, weaker reef ecosystems</h2>



Dr. Diego Barneche from AIMS pointed out a telling pattern: areas where fishing pressure is low, like marine reserves, tend to have fewer outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish. 



Where fishing is rampant, starfish numbers surge. The connection is clear - overfishing, particularly of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reef-sharks-are-abandoning-their-homes-due-to-ocean-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a>, makes reefs more vulnerable.



This isn’t just about one species of starfish. The removal of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unprovoked-shark-attacks-dropped-to-record-low-in-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> disrupts the entire ecosystem, leading to cascading effects that are difficult to reverse. Coral reefs, already fighting climate change and pollution, now have to battle an overpopulation of coral predators as well.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-sharks-to-save-reefs">Protecting sharks to save reefs</h2>



"We need to rapidly improve the resilience of coral reefs at a time when long-term threats, such as climate change and nutrient inflows from catchments, are causing damage that may become irreversible," said Dr. Meekan.



One practical step? Reduce shark fishing. By keeping their populations stable, reefs may have a better chance of regulating starfish numbers naturally.



"Reducing fishing so there are fewer starfish outbreaks may be a relatively cost-effective way to do this," noted Dr. Meekan.



Coral reefs are among the most threatened ecosystems on Earth. Climate change may be the biggest villain in their story, but human-driven disruptions - like the removal of sharks - are making things worse. The ocean works in delicate, intricate ways.



When one piece is removed, the effects ripple outward. In this case, fewer sharks mean more starfish. More starfish mean fewer corals. And fewer corals mean the loss of entire marine communities.



The solution might be as simple as letting sharks do their job.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-025-07716-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Biology</a>.&nbsp;



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Shark fishing is making coral reefs collapse in an unexpected way

Coral reefs - vivid, bustling cities beneath the sea -...

Language plays a central role in shaping identity, culture, and communication. In many parts of the world, children grow up learning one primary language spoken by their parents or caregivers. 



However, in Africa, a different reality unfolds. Multilingualism is not just an advantage but a natural part of daily life, with many people seamlessly switching between several languages. This linguistic richness is not something that develops later in life - it begins in infancy.



A recent study led by <a href="https://www.uni-potsdam.de/en/university-of-potsdam" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Potsdam</a> psycholinguists Dr. Natalie Boll-Avetisyan and Paul O. Omane explores the roots of multilingualism in Ghana. The research reveals that most babies in Accra, the country’s capital, grow up in environments where they are exposed to between two and six <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-humans-start-talking-scientists-may-have-found-the-answer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">languages from birth</a>.



This study sheds light on how language acquisition differs from Western settings and why early multilingual exposure is a defining feature of life in Ghana.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-multilingual-beginning-in-infancy">A multilingual beginning in infancy</h2>



The ability to speak multiple languages is often seen as a skill acquired over time. However, this study challenges that assumption by showing that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/talking-to-babies-in-parentese-boosts-their-language-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">babies</a> in Ghana start their linguistic journey in a multilingual setting.



The researchers examined 121 infants aged three to twelve months and discovered that these children regularly hear several languages spoken around them. Some of these languages come from direct interactions with caregivers, while others are picked up indirectly from background conversations, radio, and television.



The diversity of language exposure in early life is significant. The number of caregivers that a baby interacts with also ranges from two to six, reinforcing the idea that language learning is not limited to a single source. 



In Ghana, extended families play a crucial role in raising children. Babies are surrounded by parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and neighbors who all contribute to their linguistic environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-community-influence-on-learning-languages">Community influence on learning languages</h2>



Unlike many Western households where parents are the primary source of language input, Ghanaian children experience a more communal upbringing. 



Many families live in "compound buildings," where social life revolves around a shared courtyard. This open and interactive environment allows children to hear different languages spoken by various adults daily.



"The idea that a child learns only one particular language from a single caregiver, as is often assumed in Western cultures, does not apply to these communities. Rather, children are surrounded by a rich spectrum of linguistic inputs from the very beginning," said O. Omane, the first author of the study.



This vibrant setting ensures that babies do not just learn a language from one caregiver but from an entire community. Whether playing outside, listening to conversations, or engaging with relatives, they absorb multiple languages effortlessly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-direct-and-indirect-language-learning">Direct and indirect language learning</h2>



The study highlights a critical distinction in how babies in Ghana learn languages. Some languages are acquired through direct interactions with caregivers, while others come through indirect exposure. 



Local languages such as Akan, Ga, and Ewe are usually learned through direct contact. Parents, grandparents, and neighbors actively speak these languages to the child, making them a primary part of the infant’s daily experiences.



English, on the other hand, is often introduced through indirect sources. Television, radio, and official communication expose children to English, but it is not the dominant language spoken at home. 



This contrast shows how different types of exposure shape language learning in a way that is distinct from Western countries, where a single dominant language often prevails in the household.



"It is often emphasized how important direct language contact is for language acquisition," said Dr. Boll-Avetisyan. "However, our results suggest that indirect input - especially through media and official communication - also plays an essential role in the children's daily lives, particularly in urban contexts."



This finding challenges traditional views that prioritize direct interaction as the primary method of language learning. In urban environments like Accra, indirect exposure plays an equally significant role in shaping linguistic abilities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-western-perspectives">Beyond western perspectives</h2>



Most studies on language acquisition have been conducted in Western industrialized nations, where multilingualism is often seen as an exception rather than the norm. The research in Ghana presents a different perspective, showing that multilingual environments are dynamic and widespread.



"The majority of studies on children's language acquisition have been conducted in Western industrialized nations, which is why they often focus on a rather narrow conception of multilingualism. Our research shows that other societies show a much more vibrant multilingual environment," said Dr. Boll-Avetisyan.



This calls for a broader approach in language research. The traditional assumption that children learn one language at home and another at school does not reflect the reality for many communities worldwide. 



Instead, multilingualism is deeply embedded in daily life and begins as early as infancy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-multilingualism-as-a-cultural-asset">Multilingualism as a cultural asset</h2>



Multilingualism in Ghana is not just about communication; it is an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pi-day-celebrating-the-universal-language-of-mathematics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">integral part</a> of social structure and identity. 



Babies do not just learn words - they absorb cultural knowledge, traditions, and ways of thinking through multiple languages. Each language connects them to different aspects of their community and heritage.



"Our research shows that for many children, a multilingual environment is a dynamic, vibrant reality from the very beginning. Multilingualism is not just a bonus, but a fundamental part of children's identity and social structure," noted Dr. Boll-Avetisyan.



This insight has significant implications for education and policy. Understanding that children naturally adapt to multilingual environments challenges the need for strict language separation in schools. Instead of seeing multilingualism as a challenge, it should be embraced as a cognitive and social strength.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-language-learning">Rethinking language learning </h2>



This study adds to growing research showing that learning a language is not a strict, one-size-fits-all process. Instead, it changes based on where a child grows up and how they interact with people around them.



The research from Ghana shows that it is completely normal for babies to hear and learn multiple languages from birth. In many communities, multilingualism is not rare - it is simply how life works. Babies naturally pick up different languages when they are exposed to them early.



By studying language learning outside of Western countries, experts can get a clearer picture of how children around the world acquire languages. Understanding these differences can help improve language education and policies to better support children in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-speech-speed-can-signal-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multilingual societies</a>.



The study also shows that learning a language is not just about how many languages a child hears. It also depends on who is speaking and how the language is introduced. This research proves that speaking multiple languages is not unusual - it is a natural and important part of communication.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0885201425000176?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cognitive Development</a>.



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Babies can naturally learn multiple languages from birth

Language plays a central role in shaping identity, culture, and...

Nature has always been a source of life, inspiration, and wonder. From the towering elephants of Africa to the tiniest insects in the rainforests, wildlife plays a vital role in maintaining the planet's balance. Yet, human activities have pushed many species toward extinction. 



World Wildlife Day, celebrated annually on March 3, serves as a poignant reminder of our responsibility to protect nature.



This global event not only highlights the beauty of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-change-their-daily-schedules-when-tourists-are-watching/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a> but also raises awareness about the threats it faces. More importantly, it calls for urgent action to save endangered species and preserve ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-origins-of-world-wildlife-day">Origins of World Wildlife Day</h2>



Established by the United Nations in 2013, World Wildlife Day commemorates the signing of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (<a href="https://cites.org/eng" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CITES</a>) in 1973. 



CITES is a global agreement that regulates the trade of wild animals and plants to ensure their survival.



The day serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent threats facing wildlife. Poaching, deforestation, and pollution have already led to the extinction of many species. 



Some, like the dodo bird and the Tasmanian tiger, are lost forever. Others, such as rhinos and sea turtles, remain critically endangered.



By dedicating a day to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-conservation-day-2024-saving-species-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife conservation</a>, the world acknowledges that nature's survival is directly linked to human well-being. Healthy ecosystems provide food, medicine, clean water, and air. 



Protecting wildlife is not just about saving animals - it is about preserving life itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-theme-for-world-wildlife-day-2025">Theme for World Wildlife Day 2025</h2>



Each year, World Wildlife Day adopts a specific theme to address pressing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-wildlife-threats-can-be-identified-using-ai-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation challeng</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-wildlife-threats-can-be-identified-using-ai-technology/">es</a>. In 2025, the theme is "Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet." 



This theme emphasizes the critical need for innovative financial solutions to protect our planet's biodiversity.



Financing wildlife conservation has become increasingly important as traditional funding sources prove insufficient. Innovative approaches, such as payments for ecosystem services and wildlife credits, generate revenue for landowners and communities managing wildlife resources. 



These financial mechanisms not only support conservation efforts but also promote sustainable livelihoods for local communities.



By focusing on conservation finance, the 2025 theme highlights the importance of investing in both people and the planet. It calls for stronger partnerships between governments, businesses, organizations, and local communities to create sustainable funding models for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-can-prevent-future-pandemics-by-protecting-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a> protection. 



​World Wildlife Day emphasizes that conservation efforts should be effective and equitable, benefiting both nature and humanity.&nbsp;​



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-and-ecological-balance">Wildlife and ecological balance</h2>



Wildlife is essential to the survival of the planet. Each <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-report-disturbing-details-about-the-state-of-earths-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> contributes to a delicate balance that keeps ecosystems healthy. Predators control prey populations, ensuring that no single species dominates. 



Herbivores help shape landscapes by consuming plants and dispersing seeds. Pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, ensure that crops and flowers reproduce.



The loss of even a single species can have disastrous consequences. For instance, when wolves were removed from Yellowstone National Park, deer populations exploded, leading to overgrazing and habitat destruction. 



Similarly, the decline of sea otters due to hunting resulted in an increase in sea urchin numbers, damaging kelp forests. These examples illustrate the interconnectedness of all life.



Wildlife also benefits human societies in ways many people may not realize. Numerous plants and animals provide ingredients for medicines. 



Scientists have studied frogs to develop painkillers, sharks to improve human immune systems, and plants to treat cancer. Without biodiversity, medical discoveries would be limited.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-success-stories">Conservation success stories</h2>



World Wildlife Day highlights that, despite challenges, dedicated conservation programs have enabled species like the California condor and Louisiana black bear to rebound from the brink of extinction.



The giant panda, once considered endangered, has rebounded due to habitat restoration in China. Conservationists have worked tirelessly to protect bamboo forests and establish breeding programs. Today, panda populations are growing, proving that conservation efforts can work.



Similarly, India's Project Tiger has helped <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indias-wild-tigers-are-thriving-with-smart-conservation-efforts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increase tiger populations</a> after decades of decline. Strict anti-poaching laws and the creation of protected reserves have provided these big cats with a safe habitat. The country's tiger population has nearly doubled in recent years, a significant victory for wildlife conservation.



Marine conservation has also made progress. Humpback whales, once heavily hunted, have increased in numbers due to international bans on whaling. Similarly, sea turtle nesting sites have been protected, allowing their populations to stabilize.



These stories demonstrate that with commitment, funding, and global cooperation, species can be saved. They offer a glimmer of hope for other endangered animals still fighting for survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impact-on-wildlife">Human impact on wildlife</h2>



Human activities remain the most significant threat to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-tracking-is-crucial-for-preserving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a>. Forests are cleared for agriculture, destroying habitats and displacing animals. Plastic waste in oceans kills marine life. Poaching continues to threaten species like rhinos, elephants, and pangolins.



Climate change adds another layer of danger. Rising temperatures disrupt migration patterns and alter ecosystems. Coral reefs, home to 25% of marine species, are dying due to ocean warming. Arctic ice is melting, making it harder for polar bears to find food.



​If these threats are not addressed, the world could lose thousands of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-wildlife-overlap-is-rapidly-rising-across-the-globe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> in the coming decades. World Wildlife Day emphasizes that extinction is not just a loss of animals - it signifies a profound disruption of natural balance. ​



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-individuals-can-help-protect-wildlife">How individuals can help protect wildlife</h2>



Everyone can play a role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-media-is-helping-save-wild-animals-like-caracals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protecting wildlife</a>. Supporting conservation organizations through donations or volunteer work helps fund crucial projects. Many groups work on the front lines, rescuing animals, restoring habitats, and educating communities.



Simple lifestyle changes also make a difference. Reducing plastic use prevents waste from harming marine life. Avoiding products linked to deforestation, such as palm oil, helps protect forests. Choosing sustainably sourced seafood supports ocean health.



​Education is another powerful tool.&nbsp;World Wildlife Day initiatives, such as school programs and community events, play a crucial role in raising awareness about endangered species and their importance, encouraging people to take action.&nbsp;​



Sharing knowledge through social media, attending wildlife events, or participating in conservation projects helps spread the message.



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World Wildlife Day 2025: A global call to protect nature

Nature has always been a source of life, inspiration, and...

Some animals are known to cooperate with others of their own kind in a form of helping behavior. But every now and then, individuals from totally different species also form partnerships in order to improve their chances of survival.



This unexpected behavior requires that individuals understand the purpose of working together, and can see the advantages, despite having no means to communicate across the interspecies barrier. 



Researchers have documented many examples of cooperation between species, including <a href="https://planetforward.org/story/cleaner-wrasses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cleaner wrasse</a> that remove parasites from bigger fish, and ants that protect aphids in exchange for honeydew. 



Experts have also observed <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3119009/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drongo</a> birds warning groups of <a href="https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/meerkat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meerkats</a> when danger approaches, and honeyguide birds in Africa that direct honey badgers to bee hives where food can be found.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-animals-form-partnerships">Why animals form partnerships</h2>



In a recent study, researchers set out to investigate how these alliances might expand our idea of <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(25)00012-0?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS0960982225000120%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognition</a>.&nbsp;They also wanted to identify the mental skills that help animals communicate across species lines.



The study was led by biologist Eduardo Sampaio from the <a href="https://www.exc.uni-konstanz.de/collective-behaviour/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cluster of Excellence, Collective Behaviour</a> at the University of Konstanz in Germany.



Unexpected partnerships often hinge on each participant’s specific advantage. One partner might detect predators faster, while the other can defend against attackers.



Scientists have noticed that such teamwork can evolve when both sides see a payoff that outweighs any potential costs. It is not mere convenience; it can mean the difference between going hungry or finding plenty to eat.



Large predators sometimes ignore smaller animals they would normally chase away, if those smaller creatures bring a clear benefit. This delicate truce can break if one side starts taking advantage of the other too often, showing that trust must be maintained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-octopuses-cooperate-with-reef-fish">Octopuses cooperate with reef fish</h2>



In a paper published in the journal Current Biology, Sampaio and his colleagues described how octopuses cooperate with reef fish in order to hunt. Each species uses distinct signals, but they appear to understand these cues well enough to coordinate an attack and share the rewards.



“Partnerships like these challenge traditional views of intelligence and cooperation in the animal kingdom,” said Sampaio. His observations suggest that these animals grasp the benefits of working in sync, even though they usually operate alone.



Octopuses are typically solo hunters, but when a fish locates and points out hidden prey, the octopus helps flush it out. Any fish that tries to steal more than its fair share risks being swatted away.



Such behavior indicates that coordination between different species may rival the complexity of interactions seen among members of the same group. Researchers are eager to see what this reveals about flexibility in learning and decision-making.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cooperation-in-the-animal-kingdom">Cooperation in the animal kingdom </h2>



For octopuses to cooperate with different species, they must learn to interpret signals that do not match their usual social cues. This might stretch their problem-solving abilities, and push them to develop sharper instincts for sharing information.



“From an evolutionary perspective, social complexity, problem solving and communication do not only arise within one's own group, but can also be shaped by the need to collaborate across species boundaries,” explained Sampaio. 



This implies that alliances can occur between individuals from species that have very different brains and lifestyles. By investigating such alliances, scientists gain understanding about how animals adapt their behavior to succeed together, despite the apparent communication barriers.



The findings may change how experts define cooperation in the animal kingdom. Rather than ascribing social complexity to flocks or packs, it may be present whenever individuals from a species treat outsiders as potential allies.



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



The quest to learn more about cross-species teamwork is just beginning. Future studies may focus on whether these interactions develop slowly, through repeated encounters, or whether they depend on innate predispositions to cooperate.



Research teams are also looking at <a href="https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/msystems.00884-24" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interspecies synergy</a> to inspire innovations in robotics and artificial intelligence. By examining how animals navigate tricky partnerships, engineers might design machines that coordinate smoothly even if they do not share the same construction.



Practical applications could pop up in fields like environmental conservation, where understanding these relationships might help preserve critical habitats. Conservationists may tailor strategies around natural alliances to keep ecosystems balanced.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-partnerships-and-survival">Animal partnerships and survival</h2>



Scientists believe these surprising connections reveal the adaptability of complex nervous systems under challenging conditions. The discovery about octopuses broadens our awareness of how animals cooperate.



<a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/mutualism-examples-of-species-that-work-together.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cross-species partnerships</a> add another layer to our appreciation of how animals survive, evolve, and thrive. They remind us that cooperation can stretch far beyond familiar boundaries whenever mutual gains are on the table.



Plenty of questions remain about how animals initially learn to work together in unpredictable settings. Ongoing research will shine more light on how living creatures solve problems, share resources, and strike deals for mutual benefit.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(25)00012-0?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS0960982225000120%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Unlikely allies: Octopuses cooperate with fish to catch prey

Some animals are known to cooperate with others of their...

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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

[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...

Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu/">University of Miami</a> Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science explores how changes in water temperatures have affected tiger shark habitats and movements in the North Atlantic Ocean. The study reveals that rising temperatures have caused the sharks to shift toward the poles over the past 40 years.



“Tiger shark annual migrations have expanded poleward, paralleling rising water temperatures,” explained study lead author Neil Hammerschlag. “These results have consequences for tiger shark conservation, since shifts in their movements outside of marine protected areas may leave them more vulnerable to commercial fishing.”



The researchers analyzed nine years of tracking data from satellite-tagged tiger sharks, combined with four decades of conventional tag and recapture data provided by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Cooperative Shark Tagging Program.



The experts found that during the last decade of record heat, for every one-degree Celsius increase in water temperatures, tiger sharks migrated further poleward by over 400 kilometers. They also migrated two weeks earlier than usual to waters off the northeastern coast of the United States.



“Given their role as apex predators, these changes to tiger shark movements may alter predator-prey interactions, leading to ecological imbalances, and more frequent encounters with humans,” concluded Professor Hammerschlag.



Video Credit: University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science



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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.

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

Today’s Video of the Day from the University of Miami...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> is focused on the melt ponds that emerge during the spring and summer on the Greenland Ice Sheet, which is the largest ice mass in the northern hemisphere.



"Melt ponds are vast pools of open water that form on both sea ice and ice sheets and are visible as turquoise-blue pools of water in this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image," says ESA.



"When snow and ice melts atop glaciers, water flows in channels and streams and collects in depressions on the surface. These melt ponds can speed up the melting of the surrounding ice since they greatly reduce the ice’s ability to reflect sunlight."



"This can create a positive feedback where an increasing number of melt ponds absorb more heat which causes ice cover to melt even faster."



According to ESA, Greenland has been hit with a late-season heatwave that began in early September. This caused the type of melt event that usually occurs in the middle of summer.



"In a recent paper published in Nature Climate Change, scientists found that major sea-level rise from the melting of the Greenland ice cap is now ‘inevitable’ even if the burning of fossil fuels were to halt overnight," says ESA. "Using satellite observations of Greenland ice loss and ice cap from 2000 to 2019, the team found the losses will lead to a minimum rise of 27 cm regardless of climate change."



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.

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

[sendtonews key="qARzJPSabQ-2270617-12187" 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> describes a new map of Mars that is providing insight into the planet’s watery past. The map also reveals where future missions could safely land on Mars.&nbsp;



The map has been created over the last decade using observations of water-rich rocks and mineral deposits. The images were captured by ESA’s Mars Express and NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter.



"A big surprise is the prevalence of these minerals, with the map revealing hundreds of thousands of water-affected locations in the oldest parts of the planet," says ESA. "The new data will help answer exciting questions about Mars’ climate history, whether water was globally persistent or confined to short, intense episodes, and whether the conditions were ever suitable for life."



"Specifically, the map shows the locations and abundances of aqueous minerals. These are from rocks that have been chemically altered by the action of water in the past, and have typically been transformed into clays and salts."



According to John Carter of the Institut d’Astrophysique Spatiale (IAS), our collective understanding of Mars has been oversimplified. He explained that planetary scientists have tended to think that only a few types of clay minerals on Mars were created during its wet period, then as the water gradually dried up, salts were produced across the planet.



The new map shows that the composition of Mars is much more complicated than what we thought. For example, while many salts formed after Martian clays, there are some salts that are presumed to be older than some of the clays.&nbsp;



“The evolution from lots of water to no water is not as clear cut as we thought, the water didn’t just stop overnight. We see a huge diversity of geological contexts, so that no one process or simple timeline can explain the evolution of the mineralogy of Mars. That’s the first result of our study. The second is that if you exclude life processes on Earth, Mars exhibits a diversity of mineralogy in geological settings just as Earth does,” said Carter.



Video 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 history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

[sendtonews key="qas3EhyI0Y-2220951-12187" 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.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes how cavefish adapted to a sedentary lifestyle over tens of thousands of years. 



The experts found that the muscle metabolism of cavefish has been genetically reprogrammed over time. As a result, the animals have experienced major changes in their morphology and behavior. Despite these changes, however, the cavefish remain healthy and fit.



The research may provide new clues about the evolutionary consequences of prolonged physical inactivity in humans.&nbsp;



“It’s no surprise that people are moving less and less as technology has advanced,” said Rohner. “With cavefish, we have a unique system where we can study what might happen if people remained couch potatoes over very, very long periods of time.”



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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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.

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

[sendtonews key="vpljfR2VBX-2560867-12187" 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> some of the most incredible waves in the world, as seen by Landsat satellites.



"With more than 370,000 miles of coastline on Earth, there are plenty of places where epic waves build up, curl over, and hurtle toward the shore.- much to the thrill of surfers," says NASA. "There are some places where these waves are so magnificent that they can be seen from space."



"With the broad perspective of satellites, we can see how these iconic waves develop into the world’s tallest, longest, fastest, and heaviest."



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&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 capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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