A new phenomenon dubbed "ice piracy" is unfolding in the frigid wilderness of West Antarctica, where one glacier appears to be stealing ice from its neighbor. 



This unusual behavior - once believed to take hundreds or even thousands of years - has now been recorded happening in under two decades.



Scientists from the University of Leeds, working with international collaborators, have used high-resolution satellite data to reveal that a fast-moving glacier is redirecting ice flow away from its slower neighbor.



This surprising event is changing how scientists understand the dynamics of glaciers - and how such shifts may contribute to future sea-level rise. Their findings, now published in The Cryosphere, provide rare insight into these rapid changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fast-paced-shift-in-the-ice">Fast-paced shift in the ice</h2>



Between 2005 and 2022, researchers observed that seven <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-streams-move-unpredictably-due-to-hidden-quakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice streams</a> in the Pope, Smith, and Kohler (PSK) region of West Antarctica sped up significantly. 



One glacier nearly doubled its speed - an 87% increase - at the point where it meets the ocean. 



Three other glaciers accelerated by 60% to 84%. By 2022, six of these streams were moving at more than 700 meters (0.4 miles) per year. That’s the equivalent of covering just over seven football fields in just one year.



This kind of acceleration, especially so close to the grounding line - the point where a glacier starts to float - is a warning sign. 



Grounding lines help track the stability of ice sheets. Changes in their position or speed suggest the system is out of balance and can influence how ice flows inland.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-slowing-glaciers-leads-to-ice-piracy">Slowing glaciers leads to ice piracy</h2>



But not every glacier followed the same pattern. The Kohler West glacier actually slowed down by 10% during the same time period. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Antarctica_ice-piracy_Glacier-velocity-change_2005-2022_ESA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Antarctica_ice-piracy_Glacier-velocity-change_2005-2022_ESA_1s.webp" alt="The image depicts the average change in velocity of multiple glaciers flowing into the Crosson and Dotson Ice Shelves in West Antarctica from 2005 to 2022. Credit: ESA" class="wp-image-1969732"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The image depicts the average change in velocity of multiple glaciers flowing into the Crosson and Dotson Ice Shelves in West Antarctica from 2005 to 2022. Click image to enlarge. Credit: ESA</figcaption></figure>



This stood in stark contrast to nearby glaciers like Kohler East and Smith West, which sped up dramatically - by about 560 meters per year.



The slowdown puzzled scientists, until they looked at the ice flow patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kohler-west-and-kohler-east">Kohler West and Kohler East</h2>



“We think that the observed slowdown on Kohler West Glacier is due to the redirection of ice flow towards its neighbor - Kohler East," explained lead author Dr. Heather L. Selley from the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leeds</a>.



"This is due to the large change in Kohler West’s surface slope, likely caused by the vastly different thinning rates on its neighboring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-glaciers-flow-faster-during-the-summer-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a>.” 



She added that because Kohler East’s ice stream is flowing and thinning faster as it travels, it absorbs, or ‘steals’ ice from Kohler West. 



"This is effectively an act of ‘ice piracy’, where ice flow is redirected from one glacier to another, and the accelerating glacier is essentially ‘thieving’ ice from its slowing neighbor,” explained Selley.



“We didn’t know ice streams could ‘steal’ ice from each over such a short period, so this is a fascinating discovery. It’s unprecedented as we're seeing this from satellite data and it’s happening at a rate of under 18 years, whereas we’ve always thought it was this extremely long, slow process,” she added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-watching-ice-piracy-from-space">Watching ice piracy from space</h2>



To track this shift, the research team used satellite images and a technique that follows the movement of surface features like crevasses and rifts. 



They also incorporated data on ice thinning from the European Space Agency’s <a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/FutureEO/CryoSat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CryoSat mission</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Antarctica_ice-piracy_speed-direction_Crosson-Dotson-Ice-Shelves_2015-2022_ESA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Antarctica_ice-piracy_speed-direction_Crosson-Dotson-Ice-Shelves_2015-2022_ESA_1s.webp" alt="The image depicts the average speed and direction of multiple glaciers flowing into the Crosson and Dotson Ice Shelves in West Antarctica from 2015 to 2022. The arrows show change in direction of flow. Credit: ESA" class="wp-image-1969725"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The image depicts the average speed and direction of multiple glaciers flowing into the Crosson and Dotson Ice Shelves in West Antarctica from 2015 to 2022. The arrows show change in direction of flow. Click image to enlarge. Credit: ESA</figcaption></figure>



Data was sourced from satellites operated by ESA, NASA, the Canadian Space Agency, and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency.



“This study provides an interesting demonstration of ice piracy, where flow into one glacier gradually switches to flow into another glacier, as the ocean melts the grounding zone and re-configures ice flow,” said Pierre Dutrieux, climate researcher at the <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Antarctic Survey</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-any-of-this-matter">Why does any of this matter?</h2>



The research team looked into several factors that influence ice flow, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-temperatures-are-rising-faster-than-expected-and-likely-to-accelerate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean temperatures</a>, circulation changes, air temperature, and snowfall. 



They discovered that ice redirection is affecting the amount of ice reaching the floating ice shelves fed by these glaciers.



Two major ice shelves - the Crosson and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-ice-shapes-never-seen-by-humans-dotson-ice-shelf-ran-submersible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dotson</a> - are already among the fastest-changing outlets in West Antarctica. 



Crosson spans roughly 40 miles (60 kilometers), and Dotson stretches about 30 miles (48 kilometers). Both are thinning and retreating at their grounding lines.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Antarctica_ice-piracy_Crosson-Dotson-Ice-Shelves_map_ESA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Antarctica_ice-piracy_Crosson-Dotson-Ice-Shelves_map_ESA_1s.webp" alt="The Crosson and Dotson Ice Shelves are situated in West Antarctica. These huge ice shelves are fed by numerous glaciers flowing towards the Amundsen Sea. Credit: ESA" class="wp-image-1969723"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Crosson and Dotson Ice Shelves are situated in West Antarctica. These huge ice shelves are fed by numerous glaciers flowing towards the Amundsen Sea. Click image to enlarge. Credit: ESA</figcaption></figure>



“The changes in flow direction have substantially altered the ice mass flux into Dotson and Crosson Ice Shelves, likely playing an important role in maintaining Dotson and accelerating the deterioration of Crosson," explained Professor Anna Hogg, co-author and Professor of Earth Observation at the University of Leeds.



“This suggests that ice flow redirection is an important new process in contemporary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-sheet-fracture-sets-a-speed-record-in-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice sheet dynamics</a>, which is required to understand present-day structural change in glaciers and the future evolution of these systems.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ice-piracy-rising-seas-global-impacts">Ice piracy, rising seas, global impacts</h2>



The stakes are high. Sea levels are already rising due to climate change, and over 410 million people could be affected by coastal flooding by the year 2100. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-sea-levels-spiked-dramatically-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global sea levels</a> have increased by more than 10 centimeters over the past decade.



“This new study highlights the unique ability of satellites to provide both the temporal and spatial coverage required to assess change in the polar regions,” remarked Dr. Martin Wearing, ESA Digital Twin Earth Scientist and Polar Science Cluster Coordinator.



Using data from Copernicus Sentinel-1 and ESA's Earth Explorer CryoSat, the team has revealed the complex evolution of ice flow in part of West Antarctica over the past few decades. 



Understanding these changing dynamics and what drives them is crucial for improved projections of future ice-sheet change and contributions to sea-level rise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-it-all-mean">What does it all mean?</h2>



To sum it all up, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-past-present-and-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic ice sheet</a> - once thought to be sluggish and stable over millennia - is changing much faster than we realized, and in unexpected ways. 



This discovery of "ice piracy" shows that glaciers can dynamically interact, competing for ice and rerouting flow like rivers shifting course, which completely reshapes how we model future sea-level rise.



If one glacier can weaken another by stealing its ice, entire ice systems may destabilize quicker than predicted, feeding more ice into the ocean and raising sea levels. 



In plain terms: Antarctica isn’t just melting - it’s reorganizing itself in ways that could have big consequences for coastal cities around the world.



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The study brought together experts from the University of Leeds, the <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Antarctic Survey</a>, and the UK Centre for Polar Observation and Modelling (<a href="https://cpom.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CPOM</a>), which is led from <a href="https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northumbria University</a>. 



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://tc.copernicus.org/articles/19/1725/2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Cryosphere</a>.



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Ice piracy: Antarctic glacier discovered "stealing" ice from a neighbor, and that's not good for sea level rise

A new phenomenon dubbed "ice piracy" is unfolding in the frigid wilderness of West Antarctica, where one glacier appears to be stealing ice from its neighbor. This unusual behavior - once believed to take hundreds or even thousands of years - has now been recorded happening in under two decades. Scientists from the University of Leeds, working with international collaborators, have used high-resolution satellite data to reveal that a fast-moving glacier is redirecting ice flow away from its slower neighbor. This surprising event is changing how scientists...

In a rapidly urbanizing world, grasslands and other green spaces are steadily disappearing. But what if there was a way to maintain these lush sanctuaries without the tiresome labor and cost? The solution may come from an unexpected source - fire.



Using fire to restore the land may seem paradoxical, yet it’s a practice that is deeply rooted in tradition. For generations, our ancestors relied on fire to sustain ecosystems.



Today, in our quest to balance progress and preservation, we've come full circle, rediscovering this ancient wisdom.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fire-can-save-grasslands">Fire can save grasslands</h2>



A group of researchers from <a href="https://www.kobe-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe University</a> in Japan has recently conducted a study that reveals the potential of controlled burning, a labor-saving technique, in preserving disappearing grasslands.



The findings suggest that this method could contribute not only to preserving biodiversity but also to the survival of endangered plant species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-burning-has-helped-grasslands-for-centuries">Burning has helped grasslands for centuries</h2>



Grasslands require consistent maintenance. Over centuries, humans have been utilizing techniques such as grazing, mowing, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/controlled-burns-reduce-carbon-emissions-from-soil/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">controlled burning</a> to fend off overbearing forests from encroaching these pastures.



However, with a boom in urbanization and a subsequent decline in rural population, maintaining these green belts has become an increasing challenge.



This is where "prescribed" burning comes in - a technique that deliberately sets controlled fires. While fire may seem destructive, when managed carefully, it can be a vital tool in preserving these threatened ecosystems.



Led by master's student ASADA Airi and ecologist USHIMARU Atushi at Kobe University, the research sheds light on the significance of soil conditions in these fire management practices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fire-s-impact-on-grasslands">Fire’s impact on grasslands </h2>



The study was conducted on a training site of the Japan Self-Defense Forces near Mount Fuji. Here, the team established 100 square-meter plots across the grasslands on four different types of soil.



Each plot's plant biodiversity and various physical and chemical factors were thoroughly studied and compared. 



The most intriguing part of the research revealed that some areas, particularly on young lava flows, were hotspots for endangered species.



The researchers observed that these young lava flows had greater overall species richness, native species richness, and prevalence of endangered species than grasslands on both young and old scoria bedrock.



The team concluded that acidity, soil depth, and rock and stone coverage played pivotal roles in supporting these unique ecosystems, thus enabling the survival of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-plants-are-facing-extinction-in-the-scottish-mountains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rare plants</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fire-helps-balance-ecosystems">Fire helps balance ecosystems</h2>



A key point illuminated by the research is the seemingly perfect balance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-ecosystems-constantly-share-energy-to-achieve-balance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature</a> maintains. Acidic soils, which normally make nutrient absorption difficult for plants, help to counterbalance otherwise dominant species.



Controlled burning is a strategy to reset plant growth, allowing these often sidelined species a much-needed chance to thrive.



Ushimaru noted that the study pinpoints environments where managed burning can help support a significant variety of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-is-the-future-of-the-endangered-species-act/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endangered species</a>.



The findings are a step forward in our understanding of how to best preserve and restore grassland environments and species diversity through properly managed fire.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vital-role-of-grasslands">Vital role of grasslands</h2>



Grasslands are more than just open fields; they are essential ecosystems that support <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-biodiversity-crisis-is-actually-worse-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>, store carbon, and regulate water cycles. 



Covering nearly 40% of Earth’s land surface, grasslands provide habitat for countless plant and animal species. Their deep-rooted vegetation helps prevent soil erosion, making them critical for maintaining healthy landscapes.



Beyond their ecological value, grasslands play a pivotal role in agriculture and food security. They support livestock grazing, which sustains rural economies, and their rich soils contribute to sustainable farming. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grasslands-support-climate-stability">Grasslands support climate stability</h2>



Additionally, grasslands act as natural buffers against extreme weather, absorbing excess rainfall and reducing the risk of floods and droughts.



However, with increasing urbanization and agricultural expansion, these landscapes are disappearing at an alarming rate. Without proper management, they risk being overrun by forests, invasive species, or completely degraded.



This is where techniques like controlled burning become invaluable, helping to maintain the delicate balance that allows grasslands to flourish.



By recognizing their importance and investing in conservation efforts, we can ensure that grasslands continue to provide essential benefits for both nature and human society.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ppp3.10629" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plants People Planet</a>.



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Controlled fires can help us save grasslands from disappearing

In a rapidly urbanizing world, grasslands and other green spaces...

The ocean's depths harbor a hidden world of swirling currents that mirror our atmospheric weather patterns. New research has unveiled surprising ways in which atmospheric winds influence ocean eddies, revealing a level of complexity that challenges previous assumptions. 



These eddies, circular currents of water roughly 100 kilometers wide, are integral to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-broke-records-for-450-straight-days/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean's weather patterns</a>. Much like how winds shape weather on land, these swirling currents play a crucial role in determining the dynamics of the ocean. 



Scientists at the <a href="https://www.rochester.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Rochester</a> have conducted a detailed study using satellite imagery and high-resolution climate models. The team uncovered interactions between the atmosphere and the ocean that were previously misunderstood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-winds-on-eddies">Impact of winds on eddies</h2>



For years, it was believed that atmospheric winds primarily slowed down <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-vessels-most-industrial-fishing-activity-is-not-publicly-tracked/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a> eddies. However, this new research offers a fresh perspective.



Study co-author Hussein Aluie is a professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and the Department of Mathematics.



"It's actually more interesting than what people had previously thought. There's a marked asymmetry in how the wind affects these motions, and it depends on the direction they spin," noted Aluie.



This insight highlights the intricate relationship between wind direction and the rotational movement of eddies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-wind-direction">The role of wind direction </h2>



The study reveals that prevailing winds, such as the westerlies and trade winds, interact with ocean eddies in a highly directional manner. 



When these winds move longitudinally across the globe in the same direction as the eddy’s rotation, they energize the eddy, enhancing its strength. 



On the other hand, if the wind moves in the opposite direction to the eddy’s spin, it dampens the motion. This discovery overturns the long-standing belief that atmospheric winds uniformly slow down <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-circumpolar-current-speed-increasing-rising-sea-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oceanic movements</a>.



The implications are profound. The research suggests that the interaction between winds and eddies is not a one-size-fits-all phenomenon but rather a nuanced process influenced by alignment and direction.



This understanding opens the door to more accurate modeling of oceanic weather patterns and their interactions with the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-eddies-the-role-of-strain-patterns">Beyond eddies: The role of strain patterns</h2>



While eddies are visually striking and easier to identify, the study also emphasizes the importance of strain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-waves-can-get-much-bigger-taller-than-we-ever-imagined/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">patterns in ocean</a> weather systems. Strain refers to the movement that exists between eddies. 



Although these patterns are less obvious to the naked eye, they account for approximately half of the ocean’s kinetic energy. According to Aluie, strain patterns respond to wind influences in ways similar to eddies, making them a critical component of the ocean’s energy dynamics.



Understanding strain patterns is essential for grasping the full scope of energy exchange between the atmosphere and the ocean. 



These patterns, though subtle, play a significant role in shaping the ocean’s overall behavior. By studying both eddies and strain, researchers can develop a more comprehensive picture of how energy flows through the Earth’s systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-climate-models">Advancing climate models</h2>



The findings from this study have far-reaching implications for climate science and related industries. 



"The new energy pathways between the atmosphere and the ocean that we discovered can help design better ocean observation systems and improve climate models," noted Shikhar Rai, the first author of the study and a postdoctoral investigator at <a href="https://www.whoi.edu/who-we-are/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution</a>.



Enhanced predictive capabilities could lead to practical applications in fields such as fisheries management and commercial shipping.



For instance, improved forecasts of ocean weather patterns could help fisheries optimize their operations, ensuring sustainable resource use. 



Similarly, shipping companies could plan more efficient routes, reducing fuel consumption and costs. These advancements highlight the importance of refining our understanding of ocean-atmosphere interactions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eddies-help-in-energy-transfer">Eddies help in energy transfer</h2>



Looking ahead, Aluie and his team plan to investigate how eddies contribute to the transfer of energy between the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shrinking-sea-ice-what-record-lows-tell-us-about-the-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oceans</a> and the atmosphere. 



This aspect of the research could provide even deeper insights into the interconnected systems that govern the planet’s climate. By focusing on the mechanical interactions between wind and water, scientists aim to unravel the mechanisms that drive energy exchanges involving eddies on a global scale.



This line of inquiry is particularly relevant in the context of climate change. As the Earth’s climate continues to evolve, understanding how energy moves between different parts of the system becomes increasingly important. 



The findings from this study lay the groundwork for future research that could address some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-chapter-in-ocean-science">A new chapter in ocean science</h2>



The research represents a significant leap forward in ocean science. By challenging outdated assumptions and uncovering new dynamics, the researchers have opened the door to a deeper understanding of the forces that shape our planet’s weather and climate systems.



The study not only enhances theoretical knowledge but also offers practical benefits for industries and communities that rely on accurate oceanic predictions.



As scientists continue to explore the complexities of atmospheric and oceanic interactions, the potential for innovation grows. From improving climate models to optimizing industrial practices, the implications of this research are vast. 



With each new discovery, humanity moves closer to unraveling the mysteries of the Earth’s intricate systems.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-56310-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



Image Credit: NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center Scientific Visualization Studio photo



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Ocean weather is affected by the atmosphere in unexpected ways

The ocean's depths harbor a hidden world of swirling currents...

In today's world, microplastics - tiny plastic particles smaller than 5mm - are becoming increasingly prevalent. 



The alarming reality is that microplastics have infiltrated every corner of our environment, from the depths of the ocean’s trenches to the peaks of the highest mountains.



These particles are so small that they are invisible without a microscope. However, their effects on the environment and human health are nothing close to invisible.



Emerging research has linked microplastics to cellular damage, inflammation, and potential long-term health risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-and-preterm-birth">Microplastics and preterm birth</h2>



At the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine’s (SMFM) annual gathering, <a href="https://smfm2025.eventscribe.net/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Pregnancy Meeting</a>, new research on microplastics will take center stage. 



The findings suggest that microplastics and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hundreds-of-thousands-of-nanoplastics-found-in-bottled-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nanoplastics</a> are present in higher concentrations in the placentae of premature infants compared to full-term births.



The study was a collaborative effort among investigators at <a href="https://www.unm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The University of New Mexico</a>. The researchers used highly sophisticated mass spectrometry to analyze 175 placentae.



The study was focused on 100 full term placentae, while the rest were preterm, or before 37 weeks of gestation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-do-plastics-reach-the-womb">How do plastics reach the womb?</h2>



The presence of microplastics in the placenta raises critical questions: How do these tiny particles infiltrate the human body, and more importantly, how do they reach an unborn child? 



Research suggests that microplastics enter the maternal bloodstream through contaminated food, drinking water, and even the air we breathe. These particles can penetrate the bloodstream and become deposited in multiple organs, including the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-discovered-in-every-human-placenta-tested-after-birth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">placenta</a>.



Previous studies have shown that people <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-confirms-microplastics-have-entered-our-food-chain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ingest</a> substantial amounts of microplastics on a daily basis. 



Exposure can also occur through inhaling airborne microplastics present in household dust, which originates from sources such as synthetic fabrics and industrial emissions.



Given their small size and chemical composition, microplastics may disrupt biological processes by carrying harmful additives or acting as vectors for other toxic substances. This raises concerns about their long-term effects on fetal development and pregnancy outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-the-pathways-of-microplastics">Identifying the pathways of microplastics </h2>



Understanding the pathways of microplastics in the human body is crucial for developing strategies to reduce exposure and mitigate risks for both mothers and newborns.



Study senior author Dr. Kjersti Aagaard is a maternal-fetal subspecialist and research professor at Boston Children’s Hospital and the HCA Institute, who also serves as the medical director of the Gulf Coast Division of HCA Healthcare.



“Advanced technology now enables us to accurately measure microplastics in ways we haven’t been able to in the past," noted Dr. Aagaard.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-in-preterm-placentae">Microplastics in preterm placentae </h2>



When the researchers analyzed the collected placentae, they found that the levels of microplastics and nanoplastics were significantly higher in those collected preterm. Moreover, these concentrations exceeded any previously recorded levels in human blood.



The researchers theorize that these plastic particles were accumulating in the placenta throughout pregnancy, with escalated exposure and accumulation occurring in instances of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/molecular-timer-may-hold-the-key-to-preventing-preterm-birth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preterm birth</a>.



Study lead author Dr. Enrico R. Barrozo is an expert in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston.



"The finding of higher placental concentrations among preterm births was surprising because it was counterintuitive to what you might expect if it was merely a byproduct of the length of time of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/calcium-zinc-are-keys-to-healthier-pregnancy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pregnancy</a>," said Dr. Barrozo.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preterm-delivery-and-microplastic-accumulation">Preterm delivery and microplastic accumulation </h2>



Dr. Aagaard noted that a preterm delivery not only accumulated more microplastics and nanoplastics in its placenta relative to term, but did so at an earlier time point in the pregnancy.



“When combined with other recent research, this study adds to the growing body of evidence, ranging from heart disease to potentially stroke, that demonstrates a real risk of exposure to plastics on human health and disease," said Dr. Aagaard.



The study's abstract was published recently in the January 2025 issue of Pregnancy, a new open-access journal and the first official journal for the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine.



The findings raise an urgent question: How can we mitigate the risks posed by microplastics to human health, particularly in early life?



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.smfm.org/journal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pregnancy</a>.



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Microplastics in the placenta linked to preterm births

In today's world, microplastics - tiny plastic particles smaller than...

Aerosols play a crucial role in shaping the behavior of clouds, which are composed of tiny water droplets or ice crystals.



These clouds are fundamental to the functioning of Earth’s climate system. They regulate the amount of solar radiation reaching the planet’s surface, which influences temperature and weather patterns.



Liquid water clouds are particularly effective at reflecting solar radiation, contributing significantly to the surface energy balance. In contrast, ice clouds tend to reflect less radiation, leading to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/permafrost-is-no-longer-permanent-arctic-communities-in-danger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distinct climatic effects</a>.



Ice clouds typically form at temperatures below −38°C (−36.4°F), but recent observations have shown their formation at higher temperatures in the Arctic. 



This phenomenon is closely tied to the presence of ice-nucleating particles (INPs), such as mineral dust, organic aerosols, and bioaerosols.



These aerosols facilitate the formation of ice clouds even when temperatures are warmer than the typical freezing point, highlighting their importance in cloud dynamics and climate regulation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arctic-ice-cloud-formation">Arctic ice cloud formation</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astonishing-glacier-retreat-in-the-arctic-signals-climate-disaster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic</a> region has become a focal point for studying these processes due to its sensitivity to climate change. 



Wildfires in Canada, Alaska, and Russia release significant amounts of organic carbon (OC) aerosols, black carbon, and other particles into the atmosphere. 



These aerosols often travel long distances and reach the Arctic, where they may influence cloud formation.



However, despite extensive evidence of aerosol transport from lower latitudes, scientists have yet to fully establish a clear connection between these transported particles and ice cloud formation in the Arctic. 



This gap in understanding highlights the need for further research into the mechanisms driving Arctic cloud dynamics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfires-help-to-seed-ice-clouds">Wildfires help to seed ice clouds</h2>



To address this knowledge gap, Professor Kazutoshi Sato and Professor Jun Inoue from Japan’s <a href="https://www.nipr.ac.jp/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Institute of Polar Research</a> led a remarkable study. 



Their research aimed to investigate how wildfire aerosols influence ice cloud formation in the Arctic.



The researchers collected data during an expedition to the Chukchi and Beaufort seas in September 2023 aboard the Japanese research vessel RV Mirai.



The team employed a range of advanced tools to gather precise measurements. Instruments like cloud particle sensor sondes and drones were used to measure particle concentrations and analyze cloud properties. 



Atmospheric modeling techniques, including backward trajectory models, helped trace the movement of aerosols and identify their source regions. 



“In the lower troposphere, our drone-based particle counter recorded particle counts two orders of magnitude higher than the voyage average," said Dr. Sato.



"Using the CPS sonde, we detected ice clouds in the mid-troposphere under temperatures warmer than −15 °C, near a stream of warm and moist air coming from mid-latitudes. These streams are often referred to as an atmospheric river (AR)."



"Our observations suggest that these wildfire aerosols, which have traveled via the AR, contribute to ice cloud formation under relatively warm conditions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-journey-of-wildfire-aerosols">Journey of wildfire aerosols</h2>



Through backward trajectory analysis, the researchers discovered that organic carbon aerosols originating from Canadian wildfires had traveled thousands of kilometers to reach the Arctic. These particles played a significant role in forming ice clouds at temperatures warmer than usual. 



The atmospheric river (AR) originating from wildfire zones passed over areas with high concentrations of organic carbon aerosols before reaching the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/first-ice-free-day-in-the-arctic-may-arrive-in-2027/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic</a>. 



“The AR event is a very important event for moisture transport from mid-latitudes to the polar region, and this study also shows that aerosols can be transported by this system as well,” noted Professor Inoue.



This finding highlights the dual role of atmospheric rivers in transporting both moisture and aerosols to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-industrialization-how-will-it-impact-delicate-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic</a>. 



Atmospheric rivers are known for carrying large amounts of water vapor from lower latitudes to higher latitudes, contributing to precipitation and cloud formation.



However, the study reveals that they also act as conduits for aerosols, which can influence cloud properties and climate dynamics. 



By connecting wildfire emissions to ice cloud formation, the research provides valuable insights into how aerosols interact with Arctic atmospheric processes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-vertical-atmospheric-profiles">Importance of vertical atmospheric profiles</h2>



The study highlights the critical need for detailed vertical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-permafrost-melt-devastating-role-accelerating-global-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric profiles</a> to improve numerical models of the Arctic climate. 



Such profiles include measurements of aerosol concentrations, their chemical composition, and their distribution across different altitudes.



These data are essential for developing more accurate simulations of aerosol-cloud interactions in the polar regions. 



By establishing a clearer link between wildfire-emitted aerosols and ice cloud formation, this research paves the way for future studies that will refine how aerosol transport is represented in climate models.



Understanding these processes is particularly important given the rapid changes occurring in the Arctic. 



The region is warming at a rate nearly four times faster than the global average, leading to significant environmental and ecological impacts.



Changes in cloud formation and properties could amplify or mitigate these effects, depending on the specific conditions. 



For example, increased ice cloud formation could alter the Arctic’s surface energy balance, potentially accelerating warming trends.



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



The findings of this study have far-reaching implications for climate science. By demonstrating how wildfire aerosols contribute to ice cloud formation in the Arctic, the research provides a foundation for advancing our understanding of aerosol-cloud interactions. 



This knowledge is crucial for improving climate models, which are used to predict future changes in the Arctic and their potential global consequences.



Moreover, the study highlights the interconnected nature of Earth’s climate system. Events occurring in one part of the world, such as wildfires in Canada, can have significant impacts on distant regions like the Arctic. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-climate-predictions">Improving climate predictions</h2>



The research conducted by Dr. Sato and his team represents a significant step forward in unraveling the mysteries of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-arctic-may-be-ice-free-sooner-than-we-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic</a> cloud formation. 



By combining field observations with advanced modeling techniques, the study provides a comprehensive view of how wildfire aerosols influence ice clouds under relatively warm conditions. 



This approach not only enhances our understanding of Arctic climate dynamics but also sets a precedent for future investigations into aerosol-cloud interactions.



As the Arctic continues to experience unprecedented changes, the need for accurate and reliable climate models becomes increasingly urgent. 



The insights gained from this study will help scientists develop more precise representations of aerosol transport and its effects on cloud formation.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0169809524006756?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atmospheric Research</a>.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory 



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Wildfires and Arctic ice clouds: An unexpected connection

Aerosols play a crucial role in shaping the behavior of...

In the morning hours of October 3, the serene South Lhonak Lake transformed into an agent of destruction. What followed was a catastrophic flood disaster that would leave an indelible mark on India's Sikkim region, claiming dozens of lives and reshaping the landscape of the Teesta River valley.



In a recent study, experts have pieced together the dramatic sequence of events during this disaster. 



The research was led by Dr. Ashim Sattar of the <a href="https://www.iitbbs.ac.in/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Indian Institute of Technology</a> in Bhubaneswar and Dr. Christian Huggel from the University of Zurich's <a href="https://www.geo.uzh.ch/en/units/eclim.html#:~:text=We%20investigate%20risks%2C%20impacts%20and,systems%20respond%20to%20climate%20change." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environment and Climate</a> research group.



The findings paint a sobering picture of the escalating impact of climate change on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flood-fatalities-experts-reveal-the-hidden-health-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountain communities</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-the-flood-disaster">Impacts of the flood disaster</h2>



On October 3, 2023, a sudden and catastrophic event <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">triggered the flood</a>. Approximately 14.7 million cubic meters of frozen moraine collapsed into South Lhonak Lake. 



This collapse caused a massive wave, similar to a tsunami, that reached up to 20 meters in height. The force of this wave breached the moraine, allowing nearly 50 million cubic meters of water to escape. 



This volume is equivalent to filling 20,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools, demonstrating the sheer scale of the disaster.



As the water surged downstream, it carved through the 385-kilometer-long valley, causing unprecedented destruction. Sediment, estimated at around 270 million cubic meters, was displaced along the river's course. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vulnerability-of-high-mountain-communities">Vulnerability of high mountain communities </h2>



Roads, bridges, and hydroelectric power plants on the Teesta River were washed away, cutting off communities and crippling local economies. The impact extended beyond infrastructure, affecting ecosystems and farmlands that depended on stable water sources.



At least 55 people lost their lives in the disaster, while another 70 were reported missing. The suddenness of the event left little time for evacuation, increasing the human toll. Survivors faced immediate hardships as homes, livelihoods, and access to essential resources were swept away.



“This event is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of high mountain regions to the effects of climate change,” said Dr. Huggel. "The thawing of permafrost and the instability of rock, ice, and moraine structures pose major risks.”



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



To analyze the flood’s impact, the researchers relied on advanced scientific methods. High-resolution satellite images captured the affected regions before and after the event, allowing scientists to compare structural changes in the landscape. 



Digital elevation models helped reconstruct the terrain’s shifting contours, offering insights into how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forecasting-the-floods-new-clues-about-extreme-rainfall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">floodwaters</a> moved through the valley.



Seismic data played a crucial role in pinpointing the exact moment of the moraine collapse. The tremors generated by the falling ice and debris provided a time marker for the sequence of events. 



Geomorphological studies further determined the volume of water and sediment released, helping scientists understand the flood’s full magnitude.



By integrating satellite technology and physical modeling, the researchers created a detailed picture of the disaster’s progression. These insights are invaluable for predicting similar events in other glacial regions, where climate change continues to threaten landscape stability.



“The use of high-resolution remote sensing data was crucial to understanding the complex processes and cascading effects of the flood in detail,” noted Dr. Sattar. "Collaboration among researchers from different disciplines was key in gaging the full extent of this event.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-early-warning-systems">Need for early warning systems</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-increases-as-a-direct-result-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flood</a> not only destroyed critical infrastructure but also caused extensive environmental damage. 



Sedimentation and erosion altered the course of the Teesta River, affecting farmlands and water supplies. Communities that relied on stable river conditions for agriculture and fisheries faced major disruptions.



The study highlights an urgent need for early warning systems. The researchers found that the moraine had shown signs of instability for years before the collapse.



Satellite observations recorded shifts of up to 15 meters per year, indicating gradual weakening of the structure. If these warning signs had been monitored closely, preventive measures might have reduced the impact.



“Our findings highlight the urgent need for early warning systems and international cooperation to address such challenges,” said Dr. Sattar. 



Scientists advocate for a network of real-time monitoring stations that track glacial lake conditions and provide alerts when risks increase.



Such systems would allow authorities to issue timely warnings, giving local communities a chance to evacuate or reinforce protective barriers before a disastrous flood strikes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-plays-a-major-role">Climate change plays a major role</h2>



The researchers warn that similar flood disasters are likely to become more common as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-fear-climate-change-will-end-the-world-during-their-lifetime/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global temperatures rise</a>. Melting glaciers contribute to the expansion of glacial lakes, increasing the risk of outburst floods. 



High-altitude regions, already vulnerable to extreme weather, will face growing challenges in managing these threats.



“The case of South Lhonak Lake is a reminder to take climate risks in mountain regions worldwide more seriously,” said Dr. Huggel.



Rising temperatures weaken the stability of ice, rock, and moraine structures, making high-altitude environments increasingly unpredictable. The consequences extend beyond localized floods, as sediment displacement and altered river courses impact larger ecological systems.



“We need better risk modeling and assessment, as well as robust adaptation strategies, to minimize future disasters,” said Dr. Sattar.



Scientists emphasize the importance of integrating climate projections into risk assessments. More accurate models will help policymakers develop targeted strategies to reduce vulnerabilities in glacial regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strengthening-regulation-and-preparedness">Strengthening regulation and preparedness</h2>



The research team calls for stricter regulation of hydropower development in high-risk areas. 



Many of the destroyed hydroelectric plants had been built in locations susceptible to floods and landslides. Strengthening oversight in infrastructure planning could prevent future losses and improve resilience.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-floods-its-not-just-about-rainfall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Improved monitoring</a> of glacial lakes is another key recommendation. By using satellite imagery, drones, and ground-based sensors, scientists can track changes in lake size, moraine stability, and surrounding permafrost conditions. 



Regular assessments would allow authorities to take preemptive action when warning signs appear. 



Early warning systems must be integrated with disaster response plans. Communities in high-altitude regions need access to evacuation routes, emergency shelters, and rapid communication networks. Governments and international agencies must collaborate to provide funding and expertise for these initiatives.



The study provides valuable insights that could help mountain communities prepare for the challenges of climate change. With better risk assessment, stronger regulations, and proactive disaster response strategies, the impact of future floods can be minimized. 



Scientists stress the need for immediate action, as delaying preventive measures could lead to more catastrophic events in the years ahead.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.ads2659" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Climate change is directly linked to flood disasters in mountain communities

In the morning hours of October 3, the serene South...

A recent study has confirmed what scientists have long suspected - the devastating link between climate change, melting sea ice, and the decline of polar bears. 



Unlike previous research that only highlighted correlations, this study presents a direct, measurable connection.



For the first time, researchers have developed a model that precisely demonstrates how shrinking sea ice leads to polar bear <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-doesnt-stick-to-polar-bear-fur-but-why/">population</a> collapse in Western Hudson Bay.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polar-bears-are-starving">Polar bears are starving </h2>



A changing climate has dramatically altered the Arctic landscape, forcing polar bears to spend more time on land instead of hunting seals on the ice. 



As their primary food source becomes less accessible, the bears enter longer fasting periods, leading to declining health and population numbers.



“A loss of sea ice means <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-bear-conservation-leaps-forward-with-new-tracking-technology/">bears</a> spend less time hunting seals and more time fasting on land,” said Louise Archer, a postdoctoral researcher and lead author of the study.



This prolonged fasting drains polar bears' energy reserves, reducing their ability to reproduce and raise cubs. Without enough stored fat, female bears struggle to give birth and nurse their young. Over time, this energy deficit has led to a sharp population decline.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-loss-in-polar-bears">Energy loss in polar bears</h2>



To understand the impact of climate change on polar bears, researchers developed a “bio-energetic” model that measures how much energy the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-bears-are-struggling-to-survive-longer-summers/">bears</a> gain from hunting and how much they need to grow and reproduce. 



This model is unique because it tracks individual polar bears throughout their lives, from cubhood to adulthood.



The model uses over four decades of data from monitoring the Western Hudson Bay polar bear population between 1979 and 2021. 



This long-term dataset allows researchers to analyze trends and predict how continued sea ice loss will affect polar bears in the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dramatic-polar-bear-population-decline">Dramatic polar bear population decline</h2>



The findings are alarming. The polar bear population in this region has dropped by nearly 50% over the past four decades. 



Body mass has also declined significantly, with adult females weighing 39 kg (86 lbs) less than before and one-year-old cubs losing an average of 26 kg (47 lbs).



“Our model goes one step further than saying there’s a correlation between declining sea ice and population decline,” noted Péter Molnár, associate professor at <a href="https://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/home/">University of Toronto Scarborough</a> and co-author of the study.



“It provides a mechanism that shows what happens when there is less ice, less feeding time and less energy overall. When we run the numbers, we get a near one-to-one match to what we’re seeing in real life.”



This level of accuracy confirms that climate change is the primary driver of polar bear decline, rather than other potential factors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cubs-face-the-greatest-risk">Cubs face the greatest risk</h2>



The research team, which includes experts from <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change.html">Environment and Climate Change Canada</a>, found that cubs are the most vulnerable to the changing conditions. 



Their survival depends on their ability to gain enough weight before their first fasting period, but shorter hunting seasons make this increasingly difficult.



Archer explained that when hunting time is cut short, mother bears cannot produce enough milk, which puts cubs at greater risk. If a cub does not gain enough weight before winter, it has a much lower chance of survival.



Mothers are also giving birth to fewer cubs. Monitoring data shows that litter sizes have decreased by 11% over the past 40 years. Additionally, many mothers are now keeping their cubs for longer periods because the young <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-bears-are-suffering-from-painful-ice-balls-stuck-on-their-feet/">bears</a> are not strong enough to survive on their own.



“It’s pretty simple - the survival of cubs directly impacts the survival of the population,” said Archer. Her research is supported by a Mitacs Elevate postdoctoral fellowship and the non-profit organization <a href="https://polarbearsinternational.org/">Polar Bears International</a>.



The reduced cub survival rate signals a troubling future for polar bears in Western Hudson Bay. If these trends continue, the population could face an even sharper decline in the coming decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warning-for-polar-bears-worldwide">Warning for polar bears worldwide</h2>



Western Hudson Bay has long been seen as an indicator of how climate change affects polar bear populations globally. 



The Arctic is warming at a rate four times faster than the global average, making the survival of these bears even more uncertain.



“This is one of the southernmost populations of polar bears, and it’s been monitored for a long time, so we have very good data to work with,” said Molnár, who specializes in how global warming affects large mammals.



“There’s every reason to believe what is happening to polar bears in this region will also happen to polar bears in other regions, based on projected sea ice loss trajectories. This model basically describes their future.”



With sea ice disappearing at an increasing rate, other polar bear populations will likely face the same challenges as those in Western Hudson Bay. 



Experts warn that unless significant action is taken to address climate change, these majestic animals may struggle to survive in the coming decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-conservation">Need for conservation</h2>



The researchers hope that their findings will contribute to ongoing conservation efforts and encourage policymakers to take stronger action against climate change.



The bio-energetic model developed for this study could be applied to other polar bear populations to predict future trends and inform conservation strategies. 



By tracking energy intake and expenditure, scientists can gain a clearer picture of how climate change will impact different regions.



Polar bears have long been a symbol of the Arctic, but their future depends on how quickly humanity responds to the challenges posed by global warming. Without intervention, these animals will continue to struggle as their habitat disappears.



The study received funding from the <a href="https://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/index_eng.asp">Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada</a> and the <a href="https://www.innovation.ca/">Canada Foundation for Innovation</a>.&nbsp;



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adp3752">Science</a>.



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Polar bears are suffering from an "energy deficit" that is devastating their populations

A recent study has confirmed what scientists have long suspected...

The Arctic's frozen ground has long kept its secrets locked away beneath layers of ice and snow. But as researchers dive deeper into the complex workings of this remote landscape, they're uncovering startling revelations about how water moves beneath the surface. 



A seemingly minor trickle of groundwater beneath Alaska’s tundra is quietly releasing vast amounts of carbon into the ocean.



This finding comes from researchers at <a href="https://www.utexas.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The University of Texas at Austin</a>, who discovered that this hidden process is adding an estimated 230 tons of organic carbon per day into the Beaufort Sea during summer. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-groundwater-releasing-carbon">Groundwater releasing carbon</h2>



Although groundwater accounts for only a small portion of the total water reaching the ocean, it is delivering as much carbon as the region’s rivers during the warmer months.



Cansu Demir, who led the research while completing her doctoral degree at the UT Jackson School of Geoscience, now works as a postdoctoral research associate at <a href="https://www.lanl.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Alamos National Laboratory</a>.



“This study shows that there’s humongous amounts of organic carbon and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-is-accelerating-beyond-control-as-co2-levels-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a> released via fresh groundwater discharge in summer,” said Demir.



The researchers found that groundwater discharge in the Arctic is not only significant but may also play an increasing role in carbon release as permafrost continues to thaw.



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



While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-system-captures-carbon-dioxide-directly-from-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon emissions</a> from rivers, melting ice, and thawing permafrost are well documented, this study sheds light on a less recognized but equally important contributor. 



As fresh groundwater reaches the ocean, it releases carbon dioxide (CO2) that can contribute to climate change. The presence of CO2 in seawater can also lead to ocean acidification, which has long-term consequences for marine ecosystems.



As the Arctic warms, the natural movement of groundwater is changing. The study shows that fresh groundwater is actively flowing into submarine environments along the coastline where the land meets the sea. 



This contradicts earlier assumptions that freshwater submarine groundwater discharge in this region was extremely limited. The discovery raises concerns about the long-term effects of increasing groundwater discharge on carbon levels in the Arctic Ocean.



Demir and her team went further by separating freshwater from other groundwater sources. Unlike previous studies, which included recirculated saltwater that had seeped into the ground from the ocean, this research specifically identified sources of fresh groundwater.



The freshwater likely originates from rain, melting snow, thawed shallow ground ice, and possibly deeper permafrost layers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-groundwater-s-contribution-to-carbon-release">Groundwater’s contribution to carbon release</h2>



Through direct observations and numerical modeling, the researchers measured the volume of fresh groundwater entering the Beaufort Sea and compared it to river discharge.



They found that fresh groundwater accounts for 3-7% of the total discharge from three major rivers in the region during summer. This volume is surprisingly high for an Arctic environment and is comparable to groundwater discharge levels in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-carbon-sinks-are-being-pushed-to-their-limits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperate</a> regions at lower latitudes.



What makes this discovery even more striking is the amount of organic carbon and nitrogen contained in the groundwater. Despite its relatively small volume, groundwater carries nearly as much organic carbon and nitrogen as the rivers in the region.



“In that small amount of water, that groundwater carries almost the same amount of organic carbon and nitrogen as rivers,” Demir explained.



This means that even as Arctic rivers continue to flow and release carbon into the ocean, groundwater is quietly doing the same, adding to the overall impact of carbon release in the region.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-permafrost-and-its-impact">Permafrost and its impact</h2>



Groundwater does not simply move through soil and sediment on its way to the sea. It interacts with permafrost, a frozen layer of soil and organic matter that has stored <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-has-regulated-earths-climate-for-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a> for thousands of years. 



When permafrost melts, it releases stored carbon into the moving groundwater, which then transports it into the ocean.



This process is similar to how estuaries function, acting as natural reservoirs of organic matter and nutrients. However, permafrost is unique in that it holds a massive amount of trapped carbon. 



When it melts, this carbon is no longer locked away but instead becomes part of the natural carbon cycle. The result is a significant increase in the amount of carbon reaching the ocean, which can further contribute to climate change.



“The Arctic coast is changing in front of our eyes,” said Bayani Cardenas, a co-author of the study and professor at the Jackson School’s <a href="https://eps.jsg.utexas.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences</a>. 



“As permafrost thaws, it turns into coastal and submarine aquifers. Even without this thawing, our studies are among the first to directly show the existence of such aquifers.”



This transformation has far-reaching implications. If warming continues, even more permafrost will melt, increasing the amount of freshwater that moves underground and carrying even more carbon into the ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-ecological-consequences">Potential ecological consequences</h2>



The effects of this newly recognized carbon pathway go beyond climate change. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carbon-sinks-are-losing-their-ability-to-absorb-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increase in CO2 levels</a> due to groundwater discharge is likely to impact marine ecosystems, particularly in Arctic coastal environments.



One of the most concerning impacts of groundwater contributing to carbon levels is ocean acidification. As more carbon dioxide enters the ocean, it lowers the pH of seawater, making it more acidic. 



This shift in acidity can weaken marine organisms such as crustaceans, clams, and snails, which rely on calcium carbonate to build their shells. Acidification can make these creatures more vulnerable, disrupting food chains that support both marine and human communities.



In addition to acidification, the large influx of organic carbon and nitrogen may alter nutrient balances in coastal waters. Changes in nutrient levels can affect marine plant life, algae growth, and the availability of food for larger marine species. 



Such disruptions could have cascading effects throughout Arctic marine ecosystems, affecting everything from microscopic organisms to larger fish and mammals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-concern-for-the-arctic-s-future">Growing concern for the Arctic’s future</h2>



As climate change accelerates permafrost thaw, the natural movement of groundwater is likely to increase. This means that more carbon will enter the ocean through submarine groundwater discharge, adding to the carbon already released by rivers and melting ice.



Understanding this process is essential for predicting future climate trends and ecological changes in the Arctic. Researchers are continuing to investigate how groundwater moves through permafrost regions and how its carbon content interacts with the ocean. 



The findings from this study provide an important foundation for future research, highlighting the need to consider groundwater as a key factor in Arctic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-emissions-reduction-20-percent-possible-only-2-percent-economic-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate models</a>.



While much remains to be explored, one thing is clear: groundwater is playing a larger role in Arctic carbon emissions than previously thought. 



As the Arctic landscape continues to change, scientists will need to keep a close watch on how these hidden water flows influence both regional and global climate systems.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2024GL109142" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>.



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Alaska’s groundwater releases a huge amount of carbon into the ocean

The Arctic's frozen ground has long kept its secrets locked...

Recent evidence indicates that even modest exposure to traffic-related air pollution could harm the liver and potentially increase the likelihood of developing metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD).&nbsp;



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.uts.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Technology Sydney</a> (UTS) set out to investigate how fine particulate matter - collected from urban roadways - can undermine liver health over time.&nbsp;



While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/understanding-how-air-pollution-forms-may-help-us-prevent-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air pollution</a> is typically associated with respiratory risks, this research suggests its effects may extend far beyond the lungs.



“We think of air pollution as being harmful to people’s lungs, but it has a broader impact on health including on the liver,” said lead author Hui Chen, a professor at UTS.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-fatty-liver-disease">What is fatty liver disease?</h2>



Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, is the world’s most prevalent liver disorder, characterized by an overaccumulation of fat in liver cells.&nbsp;



In its advanced stages, fatty liver can lead to inflammation, cirrhosis, cancer, or even organ failure. A key reason the liver is so vulnerable is because it plays central roles in detoxifying the blood, regulating glucose, and producing essential molecules the body needs to function.



“The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-say-this-is-the-best-fruit-to-eat-for-a-healthier-liver/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">liver</a> is critical for metabolism. It clears toxins, regulates blood sugar, and produces essential vitamins and proteins, among many other functions. If the liver isn't functioning properly, it can leave people feeling tired and unwell due to disrupted metabolism,” Chen explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-pollution-particles-infiltrate-the-liver">How pollution particles infiltrate the liver</h2>



The study examined the effects of tiny particulate matter, specifically PM2.5, which is smaller than 2.5 microns - about 3% the diameter of a human hair. Because of its minuscule size, PM2.5 bypasses many of the body’s natural filters when inhaled.&nbsp;



“When we inhale air pollution, the very tiny particles known as PM2.5 enter the bloodstream through the lungs. The liver, which filters toxins from the blood, then accumulates these substances, which can include heavy metals such as arsenic, lead, nickel and zinc,” said Chen.&nbsp;



Over time, this accumulation may strain the organ and jeopardize overall metabolic health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollution-exposure-and-fatty-liver">Pollution exposure and fatty liver </h2>



World-renowned liver specialist Professor Jacob George, director of the <a href="https://wimr.org.au/research-centres/the-storr-liver-centre/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Storr Liver Center</a> and a co-author of the study, researches the causes of liver diseases and cancer.&nbsp;



Professor George pointed out that “around one in three Australian adults has fatty liver disease, and it is more common in those who are overweight or have diabetes.”&nbsp;



Although unhealthy dietary habits, physical inactivity, and excess alcohol consumption are well-established contributors, these latest findings highlight the added role that chronic exposure to traffic pollution may play.&nbsp;



This insight emphasizes the complexity of fatty liver disease, which likely results from a combination of lifestyle, genetic, and environmental elements.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cumulative-effects-on-the-liver">Cumulative effects on the liver</h2>



The researchers exposed mice to 10 micrograms of traffic-related PM2.5 each day - a dose they say reflects typical human exposure levels in busy urban areas, such as major roads in Sydney.&nbsp;



Key markers of liver health, including inflammation and fibrosis (scar tissue formation), plus changes in liver sugars and fats, were tracked at intervals of four, eight, and twelve weeks.



After four weeks, the liver showed few notable changes. After eight weeks, however, clear disruption in normal metabolic function was observed.



By twelve weeks, significant changes emerged, including higher levels of inflammation and scarring, altered sugar storage, and increased harmful fats.



“The effect was cumulative. At four weeks we didn’t see much change, but by eight weeks there was disruption to the normal metabolic function of the liver and by 12 weeks we could see significant changes,” explained first author Dr. Min Feng, a medical doctor and PhD candidate in the UTS Faculty of Science.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-air-pollution-alters-liver-chemistry">How air pollution alters liver chemistry</h2>



The presence of PM2.5 appeared to spur immune cells to cluster in the liver, leading to inflammation and scar tissue formation.&nbsp;



In addition, the liver’s processing of fats ramped up, leading to more potent forms of lipids - like triglycerides, diacylglycerols, and ceramides - while simultaneously storing less sugar for energy.&nbsp;



On a molecular level, researchers discovered changes in 64 liver proteins, many of which correlate with fatty liver, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-travel-weakens-astronauts-immune-system-similar-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immune dysfunction</a>, or cancer-related processes.



“Previous research has shown that exposure to heavily polluted air is associated with liver disorders, however this study reveals even low levels can cause harm. It suggests there is no safe level of exposure to traffic-derived air pollution,” said Chen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigating-health-risks-of-traffic-pollution">Mitigating health risks of traffic pollution</h2>



The researchers recommend that people limit their exposure to traffic-related air pollution by avoiding peak-hour commutes, taking less congested routes when possible, and closing car windows with air recirculation mode in dense traffic. They also suggest considering masks if traveling through highly polluted areas.&nbsp;



Such steps may help reduce the accumulation of PM2.5 in the bloodstream and minimize any subsequent stress on the liver.



While further research is needed to explore how medication or therapeutic interventions might mitigate this pollution-driven liver damage, these findings add a new dimension to how air pollution can impact health.&nbsp;



By demonstrating that even small doses of PM2.5 can compromise liver function over time, the study broadens the discussion of environmental hazards. Fatty liver disease and other related conditions may be more intricately tied to daily life in polluted urban settings than previously recognized.



As a next step, the researchers plan to investigate potential treatments, such as targeted pharmaceuticals or lifestyle modifications, that could bolster the liver’s resilience against pollution.&nbsp;



While lifestyle factors - such as a healthy diet, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-in-a-pill-is-now-closer-to-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercise</a>, and reduced alcohol intake - remain central to preventing fatty liver, evidence now points to tackling environmental exposures as well.



The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jes.2025.01.025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Environmental Sciences</a>.



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Traffic-related air pollution causes liver damage

Recent evidence indicates that even modest exposure to traffic-related air...

A new study has revealed how sudden cold waves impact insects and mammals in the Amazon rainforest.&nbsp;



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.uni-wuerzburg.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Würzburg</a> documented a rare cold spell in June 2023, during which temperatures plummeted from an average of 23.9°C to just 10.5°C. 



“Climatic conditions in tropical lowland rainforests are generally considered to be constantly warm and organisms are adapted to little fluctuations in temperature,” noted the researchers.



“However, even rainforests deep in the Amazon can be affected by cold waves.”



The team conducted the first comprehensive study on how wild animal communities in the Amazon lowlands respond to drastic temperature shifts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-cold-in-the-amazon-nbsp">Unexpected cold in the Amazon&nbsp;</h2>



Local field assistants informed the research team that cold spells lasting several days are not uncommon in the Amazon.&nbsp;



In fact, a similar but milder drop to 18°C occurred in 2022. However, the researchers were surprised by the severity and duration of the 2023 event. Recognizing the opportunity, they set out to study its effects on local wildlife.



Until now, studies on cold waves in the Amazon had largely focused on agricultural impacts.&nbsp;



This study marks the first investigation into how these temperature fluctuations affect native insect and mammal populations, shedding light on how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-climate-changes-have-drastic-effects-on-tropical-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tropical species</a> might cope with future climate variations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-wildlife-responded-to-the-cold">How wildlife responded to the cold</h2>



The researchers analyzed biodiversity data collected in 2022, comparing it with data gathered during and after the cold spell. Their study included insect monitoring using traps to measure biomass of flying and ground-dwelling species.



The team also used camera traps to observe the behavior of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/decline-of-large-mammals-was-caused-by-humans-not-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">large mammals</a>, including jaguars, tapirs, and peccaries.



During cold tolerance experiments, insects were gradually cooled in a thermostat to determine their survival thresholds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insects-show-resilience-with-one-exception">Insects show resilience, with one exception</h2>



During the cold wave, insect biomass and activity declined sharply, but most species fully recovered in the following months.&nbsp;



The exception was <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dung-beetles-share-their-workload-with-their-mates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dung beetles</a>, whose populations remained lower even after temperatures returned to normal, suggesting they are more sensitive to cold than other insects.



Cold tolerance tests revealed that while most insects could survive temperatures lower than 10.5°C, about 25% were already near their physiological limits.&nbsp;



These insects lost mobility at just 0.62°C below the recorded cold wave temperatures, meaning even slightly colder events could significantly impact their survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mammals-reduced-activity-to-conserve-energy">Mammals reduced activity to conserve energy</h2>



Unlike insects, mammals can regulate their body temperature. However, camera traps revealed a noticeable drop in their activity during the cold spell.&nbsp;



The researchers believe this was a strategy to conserve energy, as maintaining body heat in colder conditions requires greater metabolic effort.



Once temperatures returned to normal, mammal activity levels rebounded. Though the study did not include birds, reptiles, or amphibians, researchers noted subjectively that these groups also appeared less active, contributing to an unusually quiet rainforest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cold-waves-in-the-amazon">Cold waves in the Amazon</h2>



The study highlights that cold waves - defined as three or more consecutive days of significantly lower temperatures - are a recurring phenomenon in the Amazon.&nbsp;



Between 1980 and 2017, 67 such events were recorded, some lasting up to eight days. These cold spells are typically caused by Antarctic air masses traveling north along the Andes and Brazilian highlands.



With climate change influencing global weather patterns, researchers speculate that these events may become more intense. If temperatures continue to drop beyond the tolerance of certain species, long-term ecological consequences could emerge.



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



The study, part of the <a href="https://www.andiv.biozentrum.uni-wuerzburg.de/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ANDIV project</a> (Patterns and Drivers of Insect Diversity and Their Microbiome Along a Complete Forest Elevational Gradient in the Peruvian Andes), highlights the need for further research into how climate variability impacts Amazonian ecosystems. 



Supported by the <a href="https://www.dfg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">German Research Foundation</a> (DFG) and involving scientists from the <a href="https://www.uni-jena.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Jena</a> and <a href="https://www.lmu.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LMU Munich</a>, this ongoing project aims to understand how insect biodiversity is shaped by environmental changes.



As global temperatures fluctuate, understanding the resilience of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-the-amazon-became-a-biodiversity-hotspot/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazonian wildlife</a> to unexpected cold spells will be crucial for predicting how climate change might reshape one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsbl.2024.0591" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biology Letters</a>.



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Cold shocks in the Amazon: How do wild animals respond?

A new study has revealed how sudden cold waves impact...

2017 American Samoa

Scientists recently reported an unexpected deep-sea development in the Pacific: certain metallic rocks seem to be making oxygen in the dark, without light or sunshine, at the bottom of the ocean.



This idea runs counter to the usual belief that oxygen only forms in sunlight through photosynthesis.



Although these findings have stirred debate, the central claim is that potato-sized nodules found thousands of feet below the surface appear to split seawater molecules and release oxygen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oxygen-and-photosynthesis-the-basics">Oxygen and photosynthesis - the basics</h2>



Since the late 1700s, we've been taught that light creates oxygen through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-to-life-on-earth-photosynthesis-begins-on-the-quantum-level-with-a-single-photon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis</a>, a crucial natural process that keeps life on Earth thriving. 



Plants, algae, and some bacteria soak up sunlight to turn carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. 



In the simplest of terms, nature uses light as fuel to produce the oxygen we breathe and keep everything on Earth alive. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-photosynthesis-could-transform-power-generation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Photosynthesis</a> not only gives energy to these organisms but also releases oxygen into the atmosphere, maintaining the perfect balance of gases that most life forms need. 



Until the discovery of dark oxygen, it has been commonly accepted knowledge that without light, photosynthesis would grind to a halt, and our planet wouldn’t have the oxygen-rich air we rely on every day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-sea-rocks-making-oxygen">Deep-sea rocks making oxygen</h2>



Exploration in a region called the <a href="https://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/explorations/18ccz/background/mining/mining.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Clarion-Clipperton Zone</a> - where deep-sea mining companies are eyeing metals resources like cobalt and nickel - uncovered <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/ferromanganese-deposit" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ferromanganese nodules</a> resting on the ocean floor.



Ferromanganese nodules are like little treasure rocks that settle on the ocean floor, packed with metals such as manganese and iron. 



These nodules form slowly over millions of years as minerals from seawater build up in layers around a tiny core, like a shark tooth or a piece of shell.



Think of them as underwater onions, with each layer adding more minerals and creating these cool, rounded shapes.



Researchers suggested that the nodules may produce electric charges that spark electrolysis, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/summer-storms-stir-oxygen-into-the-deep-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">generating oxygen</a> and hydrogen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-do-the-rocks-produce-oxygen">How do the rocks produce oxygen?</h2>



Early studies raised plenty of questions about the process and the potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-microalgae-show-photosynthesis-is-possible-in-near-darkness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effect on seafloor life</a>. 



Leading the push for more answers is <a href="https://www.sams.ac.uk/people/researchers/sweetman-professor-andrew-k/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Andrew Sweetman</a>, a professor at the Scottish Association for Marine Science. 



He is running a three-year project to investigate how these nodules might form oxygen in the absence of light. One of his goals is to see if this phenomenon appears in other parts of the Clarion-Clipperton Zone.&nbsp;



“Our discovery of dark oxygen was a paradigm shift in our understanding of the deep sea and potentially life on Earth, but it threw up more questions than answers,” said Sweetman.



He and his team will also look into whether <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cascading-oxygen-loss-could-endanger-our-oceans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbial reactions</a> help release hydrogen, an energy source for certain deep-sea microbes.



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



Dark oxygen has popped up in other surprising, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-microalgae-show-photosynthesis-is-possible-in-near-darkness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light-deprived places</a>.



<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-38523-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emil Ruff</a> detected oxygen in freshwater samples beneath Alberta, Canada. It appeared in groundwater that had been isolated for tens of thousands of years, yet still contained enough oxygen to support life. 



“After 40,000 years or 30,000 years (separated from surface processes), there’s no reason really to think that there should be any oxygen left,” remarked Ruff.



He found that special bacteria could produce oxygen on their own by breaking down certain dissolved compounds. 



What’s more, Ruff found that the quantity of oxygen produced was enough to sustain other oxygen-dependent microbial life in the groundwater.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenging-dark-oxygen">Challenging dark oxygen</h2>



Not all scientists are in agreement about this dark oxygen discovery. Some deep-sea mining interests challenged Sweetman’s work, saying they have found no such electrical oddities in the nodules. 



<a href="https://metals.co/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Metals Co.</a> submitted a <a href="https://eartharxiv.org/repository/view/7717/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rebuttal</a> of the scientific research paper to Nature Geoscience, which awaits peer review.



Meanwhile, independent observers note the need for more experiments. A research oceanographer at the US Geological Survey’s <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/pacific-coastal-and-marine-science-center" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center</a> in Santa Cruz, California, said the USGS has not observed any electrical phenomena in ferromanganese nodules examined so far.



She was not involved in either Sweetman’s or Ruff’s research.



NASA hopes these findings might hint at life in places beyond Earth. Dark ocean worlds like Jupiter’s moon <a href="https://europa.nasa.gov/why-europa/europa-up-close/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europa</a> and Saturn’s moon <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/edu/resources/gallery/8-real-world-science-facts-about-saturns-moon-enceladus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Enceladus</a> are prime targets for research.



Sweetman shared that the space agency wants to test whether high pressures found on those icy moons can trigger oxygen generation in deep-sea rocks without direct sunlight. If the same basic chemistry works there, it could point to possible <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-oxygen-in-the-deep-sea-may-hold-clues-about-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbial life in alien seas</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-oxygen-and-deep-sea-mining">Dark oxygen and deep-sea mining</h2>



The Clarion-Clipperton Zone sits far offshore, and mining there is governed by the <a href="https://www.isa.org.jm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Seabed Authority</a>. Critics argue that removing nodules in huge volumes could destroy habitats.



Organizations like <a href="https://www.fauna-flora.org/publications/fauna-flora-deep-sea-mining-report-update-march-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fauna &amp; Flora</a> warn of irreparable harm, saying it may disturb carbon storage in the ocean. Sweetman believes it is risky to harvest seabed minerals until scientists know a lot more about these systems.



He acknowledges the controversy and plans to address critics in peer-reviewed forums. For now, the hunt for hard data continues, fueled by the hope of expanding our understanding of life - both here and possibly on other worlds.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01480-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>.



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"Dark oxygen" discovery upends centuries of scientific beliefs, textbooks to be rewritten

Scientists recently reported an unexpected deep-sea development in the Pacific:...

The world’s changing climate isn’t only increasing temperatures - it’s triggering a profound reorganization of Earth’s species. The accelerating pace of these shifts poses serious threats to global wildlife.



New research reveals that rapid temperature fluctuations are actively altering which species can survive in specific regions at a rate faster than previously observed.



The study, led by researchers at UC Santa Cruz, highlights how rising and falling temperatures lead to rapid shifts in species composition. The researchers found that as temperature fluctuations accelerate, ecosystems struggle to maintain stability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptation-alone-cannot-save-species">Adaptation alone cannot save species</h2>



The study challenges the assumption that species can easily adapt to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-is-accelerating-beyond-control-as-co2-levels-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changing climate</a> through behavioral shifts or altered interactions with other organisms.



Instead, the research shows that such adaptations are insufficient to counteract the effects of increasingly unstable temperatures.



When climate changes too quickly, ecosystems undergo a reshuffling process that disrupts the balance of species within them.



Study lead author Malin Pinsky is an associate professor of ecology and evolutionary biology at <a href="https://www.ucsc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Santa Cruz</a>.



"It's like shuffling a deck of cards, and temperature change now is shuffling that deck faster and faster," said Pinsky. "The worry is that eventually you start to lose some cards."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-and-species-replacement">Climate change and species replacement </h2>



Unlike ocean species, which are often forced to move long distances due to warming waters, land animals can typically relocate to nearby areas that suit their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-fear-climate-change-will-end-the-world-during-their-lifetime/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature needs</a>. However, the researchers found that even this ability does not prevent disruptions to terrestrial ecosystems.



The study was focused on species replacement, a process in which some species disappear while new ones take their place.



While this is a natural occurrence, the study shows that the speed of replacement is increasing due to rapid temperature changes. If this trend continues, species losses may outpace new arrivals, leading to ecosystem instability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-mitigate-the-crisis">How to mitigate the crisis</h2>



The study suggests that the best way to reduce these climate change risks is to prevent further global warming, preserve natural landscapes that support diverse species and temperature conditions, and limit human-driven <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changes to the environment</a>.



The benefits of these actions include increased biodiversity, cleaner air, and healthier ecosystems.



"Temperature affects everything from how fast the heart beats to how flexible and porous our cell membranes are; from how much food animals eat to how fast plants grow," noted Pinsky. "Temperature is in many ways the metronome for life."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-ecosystems-are-more-resilient">Some ecosystems are more resilient</h2>



One of the key findings of the study is that ecosystems with varied landscapes are better equipped to handle <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cities-are-largely-unprepared-for-the-effects-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature shifts</a>. 



When an environment offers a range of temperature conditions, species can seek out cooler or warmer areas as needed. This natural variation acts as a buffer against extreme fluctuations.



For example, if a person standing in an open field starts to overheat, they have no immediate escape. However, if a forest is nearby, moving into the shade provides instant relief. 



Animals experience a similar dynamic. Those living in environments with diverse temperature zones can shift their location rather than face extinction or replacement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-species-struggle-with-climate-change">Some species struggle with climate change</h2>



Unfortunately, not all ecosystems have this level of variation. Some regions, whether due to natural conditions or human development, lack the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-the-world-is-on-track-for-a-catastrophic-level-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature diversity</a> needed to protect their inhabitants. 



Species in these regions are at the greatest risk of decline as climate change accelerates temperature shifts. Understanding which environments are most vulnerable can help guide conservation efforts.



Study senior author Shane Blowes is an expert at Germany's Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (<a href="https://www.idiv.de" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iDiv</a>) and <a href="https://www.uni-halle.de/?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg</a>.



"Establishing this explicit link between rates of climate change and rates of species turnover allows us to better understand how changing temperatures can impact different ecosystems," said Blowes.



"Pinpointing factors that impact the rate of local species replacement can help prioritize conservation actions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-activity-increases-species-turnover">Human activity increases species turnover</h2>



The researchers also found that human activity is worsening the effects of climate change on species replacement. Factors such as land development, pollution, and the spread of invasive species put additional stress on already vulnerable ecosystems.



These pressures further accelerate species loss by reducing habitat diversity and making it harder for species to adjust to temperature changes.



Humans can help mitigate the negative effects of climate change on biodiversity by reducing habitat destruction, minimizing pollution, and controlling invasive species.



In marine environments, reducing fishing pressure and protecting underwater habitats can also support species stability.



As climate change continues to accelerate, understanding how ecosystems respond to temperature shifts will be critical for conservation efforts. The study’s findings highlight the urgency of addressing global warming and protecting diverse habitats to ensure the stability of ecosystems worldwide.



The research was funded by the National Science Foundation (<a href="https://www.nsf.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NSF</a>), iDiv, and the <a href="https://hifmb.de" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Helmholtz Institute for Functional Marine Biodiversity</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08456-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Climate change is constantly reshuffling Earth's species

The world’s changing climate isn’t only increasing temperatures - it’s...

Antarctica, frequently seen as the globe's final untouched frontier, harbors a diversity of life in some of the harshest conditions on Earth. 



The Antarctic terrestrial ecosystems, which span less than half a percent of the continent's permanently ice-free land, are home to a fascinating range of biodiversity, from resilient microbes and mosses to seabird colonies that thrive in these isolated habitats.



These rare ecological pockets serve as crucial strongholds for species uniquely adapted to conditions of extreme cold and limited resources.



Unfortunately, they are increasingly vulnerable to human intrusion and climatic fluctuations. 



Rising global temperatures threaten to alter these fragile environments by expanding ice-free areas and potentially accommodating invasive species that could disrupt long-established ecological balances.



Additionally, growing human activity - through research stations, tourism, and resource exploration - raises concerns about pollution, habitat degradation, and the introduction of non-native organisms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-fresh-look-at-an-old-landscape">A fresh look at an old landscape</h2>



A group of researchers from the Centre for Ecosystem Science, <a href="https://www.unsw.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNSW Sydney</a>, has recently made a significant advance in understanding these icy ecosystems.



They have orchestrated a thorough and detailed map and classification system of Antarctica's ice-free lands. 



This novel index classifies the continent's ecosystems into nine major environment units, 33 habitat complexes, and 269 bioregional ecosystem types.



This detailed categorization offers a much-needed resource to aid in the protection of Antarctica's diverse, ice-free lands.



“Many people are surprised to learn that Antarctica has any permanently <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-past-present-and-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice-free</a> lands at all. And yet, these tiny habitat patches contain the vast majority of the continent’s biodiversity,” explained researcher Dr. Anikó B. Tóth. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unseen-world-of-ice-free-antarctica">Unseen world of ice-free Antarctica</h2>



These frost-less landscapes host an array of highly adapted plants that form "micro-forests" and include lichens, moss, and two flowering plants, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-is-experiencing-rapid-plant-growth-concerning-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic hair grass and pearlwort</a>.



Numerous mites and springtails (tiny arthropods related to spiders and insects), tardigrades, nematodes, and algal species find homes in these lands.



Various seabirds, including land-breeding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emperor-penguins-will-not-survive-the-current-rate-of-sea-ice-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">penguins</a>, petrels, gulls, skuas, and albatrosses, have even established breeding communities here.



Yet, with changes in climate and melting ice, these pockets of biodiversity will likely become warmer and less isolated in future, making them accessible to colonizing species from the lower latitudes.



“Instead of fragmentation and loss of area, ice-free patches will become larger and more interconnected,” which could drastically alter the ecosystems, typically characterized by isolation.," Dr. Tóth added. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conserving-ice-free-antarctica">Conserving ice-free Antarctica</h2>



Senior researcher, Professor David Keith, underlines that this map and classification system denote a significant stride towards comprehending <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/akarotaxis-gouldae-new-banded-dragonfish-species-discovered-reveals-antarctic-ecosystem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic ecosystems</a>. 



Considering both biophysical and biological data has led to a robust structure for directing conservation efforts as part of the Antarctic Treaty System.



It aligns with the International Union for Conservation of Nature's (IUCN) Global Ecosystem Typology. 



This alignment places Antarctica within a global context and highlights the significant role that the continent plays in maintaining planetary biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-now-is-the-right-time">Why now is the right time</h2>



In an era marked by fast-paced climate change and increasing human activity, this framework plays a crucial role in preparing us for the potential "greenification" of Antarctica.



This research, which is publicly available from the Australian Antarctic Data Centre, represents years of collaboration between scientific experts in ecology, remote sensing, and Antarctic biodiversity.



This sets the stage for developing a Red List of Antarctic ecosystems, which will highlight the continent's most endangered habitats and identify methods for their protection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antarctica-s-ice-free-future">Antarctica's ice-free future</h2>



As Antarctica’s ice-free lands expand due to climate change, the future of these fragile ecosystems hangs in the balance. 



While some species may benefit from the warming climate, others will face unprecedented challenges.



In addition, the arrival of non-native species could disrupt delicate ecological interactions that have remained undisturbed for millennia.



Increased accessibility may also lead to heightened human activity, raising concerns about habitat degradation and biosecurity risks.



To address these challenges, researchers stress the importance of proactive conservation measures. 



Integrating the new classification system into Antarctic policy frameworks will help prioritize protection efforts and mitigate potential ecological disruptions. 



With the continent undergoing rapid transformation, ensuring the resilience of its unique ecosystems has never been more critical.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41597-025-04424-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Data</a>.



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Ice-free zones found in Antarctica were recently mapped for the first time ever

Antarctica, frequently seen as the globe's final untouched frontier, harbors...

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 <a href="https://www.igb.illinois.edu/">Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology</a> reveals how scientists can modify common crops like soybean, rice, and wheat to protect them from heat stress.



“We need to double crop production by 2050 to feed a growing global population, and not only are we not on track to do that, but climate change is further complicating things,” said Amanda Cavanagh, a lecturer at the University of Essex. 



The study is part of Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE), an international research project that aims to develop food crops that turn the sun’s energy into food more efficiently.



“Using an engineering approach we designed multiple alternative metabolic pathways to photorespiration. Testing them in the field showed increases in productivity which led Amanda to significantly move the project forward by showing our engineered plants can withstand pretty extreme temperature stress,” said study co-author and RIPE researcher Paul South.&nbsp;



“As the climate changes and temperature stresses increase the pressure on our global food supply, farmers will need every tool available including engineering approaches like the synthetic biology used here to maintain safe and productive harvests.”



The experts tested plants modified to have more efficient photorespiration to see if they were better adapted to warmer temperatures.&nbsp;



The team found that the engineered plants produced 26 percent more biomass than the wild-type plants exposed to the same temperatures, and had 15 percent less yield loss under the higher temperatures.



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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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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Designing crops that can beat the heat

[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Carl...

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes the first comprehensive estimate of carbon density in the Saharan, Sahel, and Sudanian zones of Africa. In an effort to measure the amount of carbon stored across these drylands, a team of scientists used high-resolution satellite images and artificial intelligence to map nearly 10 billion individual trees. 



"The high spatial resolution (50 cm) combined with AI and field measurements used in this study is key to improving tree inventories in drylands," said Pierre Hiernaux, a French researcher working for NASA. "The ever-increasing availability of very high-resolution satellite imagery will make it possible to assess carbon pools and their dynamics at the individual tree level on a global scale."



"This study is exceptional because it is pioneering a type of approach that will revolutionize the monitoring of trees and forests on a global scale: in the short term, it will be possible to map the world's trees from the centre of the Amazon to our schoolyards," said <a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en">INRAE</a> researcher Jean-Pierre Wigneron.



"Many fields of application will become much more efficient and accurate, such as tracking carbon stocks, biodiversity, monitoring logging and protection against illegal forest degradation, in near real time.”



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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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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 



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> features a visual dataset of.methane emissions from wetlands across the globe. Atmospheric methane levels have reached record highs in recent years, and wetlands are a major source of these emissions.&nbsp;



"Methane is an important greenhouse gas that contributes substantially to global warming. On a molecule by molecule basis, methane is much more efficient at trapping heat than carbon dioxide, the main driver of warming," says NASA.



"Though human activities, including agriculture, oil and natural gas production and use, and waste disposal, collectively contribute the majority of methane to the atmosphere, about a third of total methane emissions comes from wetlands."&nbsp;



According to NASA, understanding methane emissions from wetlands and other natural sources is critically important for scientists and policymakers who are working to combat climate change by reducing emissions from human activities.



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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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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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

[sendtonews key="f8fukm28Vz-2491833-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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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 <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes how record-breaking heat expressed itself around the world in 2022.



Scientists have determined that 2022 was the 5th warmest year since 1880. Furthermore, the last nine consecutive years have been the warmest on record.



From devastating floods and wildfires to natural disasters like Hurricane Ian, 2022 showed us yet again how a warming climate affects people across the globe.&nbsp;



"As we look back at 20:22 and years past, we see that each year we better understand the challenges we face and how important it is to meet them," says NASA.



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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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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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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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



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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



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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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes how Earth is unique in our solar system for its ability to sustain liquid water on its surface. But now, the water cycle is shifting as the climate warms, and scientists must find ways to predict how these changes will affect water availability.



Overall, 96 percent of Earth's water is saltwater, and nearly all of freshwater is found in ice and groundwater. These sources of water are linked as it passes through solid, liquid and gas phases.



In a warmer climate, the water cycle will be transformed. It will be easier for water to evaporate and form clouds, and storms will become more frequent and intense. Some regions will get too much water, while others will be left without enough water. In addition, soil moisture will be lost - which threatens food security.



Scientists are using satellite data from over the last 40 years to track changes that are happening in the water cycle. This will ultimately help us prepare for extreme events and better manage our water resources, according to ESA.



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



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Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

[sendtonews key="fxH3eJHEkQ-2010196-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Saturn,-,High,Resolution,3d,Images,Presents,Planets,Of,The

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard Space Flight Center</a> features images of Saturn from NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope. The photographs capture the start of the mysterious "spoke season" on Saturn - when unexplained features appear on its rings. 



According to NASA, both the cause of the spokes and their seasonal variability have yet to be fully explained by planetary scientists.



"Like Earth, Saturn is tilted on its axis and therefore has four seasons, though because of Saturn's much larger orbit, each season lasts approximately seven Earth years. Equinox occurs when the rings are tilted edge-on to the Sun," explains NASA.



"The spokes disappear when it is near summer or winter solstice on Saturn. (When the Sun appears to reach either its highest or lowest latitude in the northern or southern hemisphere of a planet.) As the autumnal equinox of Saturn's northern hemisphere on May 6, 2025, draws near, the spokes are expected to become increasingly prominent and observable."



Experts believe that the spokes may be a product of the planet's variable magnetic field. When magnetic fields interact with solar wind, an electrically charged environment is created. This phenomenon is visible on Earth as the northern lights.&nbsp;



"Scientists think that the smallest, dust-sized icy ring particles can become charged as well, which temporarily levitates those particles above the rest of the larger icy particles and boulders in the rings," says NASA.



The spokes were first observed in the early 1980s by NASA's Voyager mission. Depending on the angle of the rings, the spokes can appear dark or light.



"Thanks to Hubble's OPAL program, which is building an archive of data on the outer solar system planets, we will have longer dedicated time to study Saturn’s spokes this season than ever before," said NASA senior planetary scientist Amy Simon, head of the Hubble Outer Planet Atmospheres Legacy (OPAL) program.



"Despite years of excellent observations by the Cassini mission, the precise beginning and duration of the spoke season is still unpredictable, rather like predicting the first storm during hurricane season."



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



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Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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Closeup,Of,Fresh,Green,The,Napier,Bush,Grass,As,Animal

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="http://www.ntu.edu.sg/">NTU Singapore</a> reveals that some plants can remove toxic heavy metals from soil.&nbsp;



The researchers analyzed samples of various tropical plant species to test for levels of heavy metals and metalloids. The study showed that there are existing plants with high levels of these contaminants, which means that these species are great candidates for drawing pollutants out of the soil.&nbsp;



Among the plants examined in the study, 12 species had accumulated several types of heavy metals and metalloids. These plants are widely available, including species that are native to Singapore.



“In a small nation like Singapore, land may be repurposed to support new development plans, so it is important that we have a green and sustainable way to remediate land that is contaminated," said Professor Lam Yeng Ming.



"We set out to uncover how to better make use of tropical plants to do phytoremediation and through advanced characterization techniques, we showed how some of these tropical plant species can be an environmentally friendly and literally a 'green' way to remove contaminants in soil."&nbsp;



"Phytoremediation also has benefits of cost effectiveness, simplicity of management, aesthetic advantages, and long-term applicability and sustainability. The strategy prevents erosion and metal leaching by stabilizing or accumulating heavy metals, so that helps reduce the risk of contaminant spread.”



Video Credit: NTU Singapore



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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.

Plants help remove heavy metals from contaminated soil

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes why herbicides are not as effective in killing weeds anymore. In the 20th century, chemical companies developed thousands of herbicides. The most commonly used herbicide was glyphosate, which was introduced in 1974.



Over the past few decades, dozens of species of weeds have evolved resistance to glyphosate. Depending on the site of action, the part of the plant that an herbicide interacts with, weeds may even be resistant to herbicides that have not been developed yet.&nbsp;



With increasing resistance to glyphosate and other herbicides, weeds are - once again - becoming a major concern for farmers.&nbsp;



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.

Weeds are becoming increasingly resistant to herbicides

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/">NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a> (JPL) describes a dust storm on Mars that was nearly twice the size of the United States. As the storm covered the southern hemisphere of the planet, some of NASA’s explorers had to delay their normal activities.



NASA’s Insight lander put itself in a "safe mode" for 11 days to conserve battery power because solar power was disrupted by the dust. The Ingenuity Mars Helicopter postponed flights until conditions improved.



"A fleet of NASA orbiters monitor Martian dust storms like this one and serve as lifelines to Earth by relaying data from the rovers and lander on the ground back to the team. This includes the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, MAVEN, and Odyssey," reports JPL.



"Dust storms like this recent one start close to the ground and are spread by wind as they rise – warming the cold Martian atmosphere."



The images in the video were captured by NASA’s Curiosity as the dust rolled in. A fleet of orbiters monitored the dust storm from above, relaying data from Mars’ explorers back to scientists on Earth.



Video &amp; Image Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU/MSSS



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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.

NASA monitors giant dust storms on Mars

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="http://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz. This strait provides the only sea passage from the Persian Gulf to the open ocean.



Qeshm is separated from the Iranian coast by the Clarence Strait, also known as Khuran.&nbsp;The Hara Forest Protected Area is a network of shallow waterways and forest located between the island and the mainland. This protected region is home to sea turtles, snakes, and more than 150 species of migrating birds.



Qeshm is famous for its wide range of&nbsp;ecotourist&nbsp;attractions, such as the&nbsp;Hara marine forests. According to environmentalists, about 1.5 percent of the world birds and 25 percent of Iran's native <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/female-hummingbirds-avoid-sexual-harassment-by-looking-like-males/">birds</a> annually migrate to the forests, which are the first national geo park in Iran.



Tourists are also drawn to the island to see an age-old Portuguese&nbsp;fort, historic mosques, the&nbsp;Seyyed Mozaffar&nbsp;and&nbsp;Bibi Maryam&nbsp;shrines, and the "Valley of Stars."



The average temperature on the island is 81 degress and the region is often hot and humid. From June to August, the island is described as being oppressively hot. The ideal time to visit is during the winter season. 



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.

Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Inhambane Bay in southeast Mozambique.&nbsp;



"Inhambane Bay is a deep inlet into which the small Mutamba River flows," says ESA. "On one side of the bay lies the historical city of Inhambane, capital of the Inhambane Province, while the sister city of Maxixe, the economic capital of Inhambane, sits across from it. The province is the second largest grower of cashews, after Nampula, and it also produces coconut and citrus fruits."



The beaches of Barra and Tofo are popular with tourists. There are also coral reefs along the long coastline of Inhambane, making it an ideal destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.



"Mozambique’s extensive coastline heightens the country’s vulnerability to tropical cyclones that develop in the Indian Ocean as well as storm surge flooding," says ESA.



"More than half of the population lives in low lying coastal areas, putting communities at risk. Inhambane Bay was dangerously close to where Cyclone Idai made landfall in 2019 causing widespread destruction to the country."



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.

Inhambane Bay in southeast Mozambique

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency </a>&nbsp;features the Kangerlussuaq Glacier, one of the largest tidewater outlet glaciers in Greenland. The glacier is located on the east coast of the Greenland ice sheet.



As human-induced climate change continues to drive up temperatures, global ice loss is accelerating at an alarming rate. ESA reports that, over the past decade alone, 3.5 trillion tons of ice have melted from the Greenland ice sheet. This is enough to cover the UK with meltwater 15 meters deep.



Based on satellite imagery, researchers determined that Kangerlussuaq entered a new phase of rapid retreat and acceleration in 2017. In their study, published in <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feart.2019.00123/full">Frontiers in Earth Science</a>,&nbsp; the experts report that the glacier's ice front is now at its most retreated position since the early 20th century.



"Given Kangerlussuaq’s previous impacts on both the magnitude and pattern of ice sheet wide mass loss, we predict that its new phase of retreat, acceleration and thinning will markedly enhance the south-east region’s contribution to increasing discharge from the ice sheet," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;&nbsp;



"More broadly, accurate forecasting of the ice sheet’s contribution to sea level rise will require a deeper understanding of, and responses to, these non-linear ice dynamic processes."



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.

Kangerlussuaq Glacier on the Greenland ice sheet

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes the complex relationship between ocean and climate. ESA's Climate Change Initiative will help us understand how oceans influence the climate and how climate change is impacting the oceans.&nbsp;



"Earth’s oceans are huge heat stores, soaking up 93% of the excess heat from human activity over the past 70 years. Ocean currents redistribute heat around the planet, from the Equator to the poles. Where this ocean heat goes influences weather patterns and regional climate," explains ESA.



"As well as absorbing heat, oceans are a natural carbon sink, absorbing a quarter of carbon dioxide emissions from human activity. This has led to the acidification of ocean water, threating marine life."



The amount of heat and carbon dioxide soaked up by the ocean depends on specific variables, including phytoplankton, temperatures, waves, salinity, and ice cover. Satellites can be used to measure these variables from space.



"From their unique vantage point, satellites provide key information for understanding the complexities of our planet and monitoring environmental issues," says ESA.



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.

Ocean heat influences regional climate

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes the importance of monitoring the shape of the sea surface, which is constantly changing. These observations have many applications, such as ship routing, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-modem-ocean-is-a-tough-place-for-whales-to-survive/">ocean</a> current forecasting, and debris tracking.



"A project supported by the Discovery element of ESA’s Basic Activities recently investigated a new technique to measure sea surface topography very precisely," reports ESA.



"The technique involves looking at satellite navigation (GNSS) signals that have been reflected off of the sea surface at very low angles. At these so-called grazing angles, waves and surface roughness have very little impact on the reflection process; the sea surface acts as a very smooth mirror."



Estel Cardellach is the principal investigator at the Institute for Space Studies of Catalonia, who first submitted the idea for the project.



“In a mirror-like reflection the phase of the signal can be tracked – it is continuous," said Cardellach. "Different surface heights result in different phase measurements. It gives a very precise measurement of the surface altitude at a few centimetres’ precision.”



The researchers developed a GNSS receiver and set up an experiment in the Balaeric Islands to collect signals from the receiver that were reflected off the sea surface. Ultimately, these signals will provide improved measurements of the shape of the sea surface.



Image/ Video 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

Monitoring the dynamic shape of the sea surface

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