High in the Dolomites of northern Italy, a quiet forest of spruce trees witnessed a cosmic event. As the moon began its slow passage across the face of the sun, these trees did something extraordinary. They didn’t just react to the solar eclipse - they prepared for it. 



Hours before the eclipse unfolded, the inner signals of the trees began to shift in synchrony, echoing across the forest like an invisible wave.



What if <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-are-losing-the-battle-against-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> could think? What if they didn’t just survive but sensed, remembered, and collectively adapted? These questions are no longer the domain of poetic speculation. A new international study has brought scientific weight to these ideas, revealing a forest’s capacity for anticipation and communication.



Led by Professor Alessandro Chiolerio of the Italian Institute of Technology (<a href="https://www.iit.it" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IIT</a>) and the University of the West of England (<a href="https://www.uwe.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UWE</a>), and Professor Monica Gagliano of <a href="https://www.scu.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southern Cross University</a>, the research shows how spruce trees behave not just as individuals but as members of a responsive, interconnected ecosystem.



The trees began altering their bioelectrical rhythms well before the eclipse. This wasn’t passive reaction - it was a coordinated prelude.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-older-trees-sense-eclipse-first">Older trees sense eclipse first</h2>



The researchers placed specialized sensors on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-new-trees-brings-hope-for-healthier-babies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a> ranging from decades-old elders to young saplings. The trees’ bioelectrical signals - minute voltage changes across their tissues - began shifting as early as 14 hours before the solar eclipse occurred.



Remarkably, older trees were the first to display these changes. They exhibited increased entropy and bioelectrical complexity long before the event, suggesting deep memory rooted in past experiences. 



These ancient trees acted as environmental archives, holding clues from previous eclipses and perhaps other rare events that have repeated over their long lives.



“The fact that older trees respond first - potentially guiding the collective response of the forest - speaks volumes about their role as memory banks of past environmental events,” said Professor Gagliano.



This age-based hierarchy of response shows that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-trees-are-reaching-new-heights-in-the-mountains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a> are not just passive organisms. Instead, they may actively use memory to shape real-time responses to future events. The old trees don’t simply endure - they teach.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tree-signals-sync-before-an-eclipse">Tree signals sync before an eclipse</h2>



Custom-built CyberTree sensors recorded data from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/slow-and-steady-tree-growth-wins-the-race-for-carbon-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a> at four distinct forest sites. Trees of different ages and light exposure were included. Some trees were healthy and tall, others young and shaded, and several were even stumps from felled trees.



In one 20-year-old tree, researchers noticed sharp, square-wave-like bioelectrical spikes hours before the eclipse. These signals vanished immediately after the event, creating a clear boundary in the data. 



Older trees showed broader but more persistent fluctuations. During the eclipse itself, bioelectrical activity became less chaotic and more ordered.



“This study illustrates the anticipatory and synchronized responses we observed are key to understanding how forests communicate and adapt, revealing a new layer of complexity in plant behavior,” explained Professor Gagliano.



This coordination wasn’t superficial. It ran deep through the trees’ vascular systems - through xylem and phloem - recorded using electrodes both within trunks and around their circumference. The result was a living, electrical map of the forest’s inner state.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whole-forest-acts-as-one-system">Whole forest acts as one system</h2>



The synchrony wasn’t limited to isolated trees. Researchers applied cross-correlation analysis to examine relationships among signals from different trees. What they found was striking. As the eclipse approached, trees didn’t just change individually. They aligned with each other.



Compared to normal days, during the eclipse the trees exhibited larger deviations in signal symmetry. This meant the forest wasn’t operating randomly. Each tree’s electrical behavior influenced - and was influenced by - others. These shifts showed signs of communication and responsiveness beyond traditional ecological models.



“We now see the forest not as a mere collection of individuals, but as an orchestra of phase correlated plants,” said Professor Chiolerio.



Especially strong synchrony occurred between the oldest trees, suggesting that longevity also brings a central role in networked behaviors. Their signals moved together like synchronized swimmers, responding as one to the cosmic shift overhead.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-trees-align-their-behavior">How trees align their behavior</h2>



To make sense of this synchrony, the team turned to an unlikely ally - quantum field theory (QFT). Trees, they argued, are open, dissipative systems. They constantly exchange energy with their environment, and classical physics falls short in describing their complex coordination.



By using thermal QFT models, the researchers could describe the trees' behavior at both molecular and systemic levels. They showed how microscopic structures like ion channels and water molecules aligned their activity, giving rise to coherent macroscopic behavior.



In this framework, the forest’s response becomes a form of spontaneous symmetry breaking. That is, a small environmental trigger - in this case, the eclipse - produces a large-scale shift in system organization.



During the eclipse, the system’s entropy dropped, coherence increased, and the forest appeared to enter a new state - like an orchestra locking into tempo after tuning their instruments. The forest was not only alive. It was aware.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gravity-may-cue-the-response">Gravity may cue the response</h2>



A mystery remained: how could trees begin responding before the eclipse even started? The usual suspects - light, temperature, and humidity - couldn’t explain it. Trees began shifting their signals when it was still daylight and warm, and the Moon was far from their sky.



The authors propose another trigger: gravimetric tides. These are subtle shifts in Earth’s gravitational field caused by the alignment of the Moon and Sun. During a solar eclipse, especially one aligned with a Saros cycle, these tides peak.



Such gravimetric cues are hard for humans to detect, but not for trees. Their deep-rooted structure and fluid dynamics make them excellent sensors. Older trees, which have lived through several Saros cycles, may recognize this pattern and respond early.



“This discovery underscores the critical importance of protecting older forests, which serve as pillars of ecosystem resilience by preserving and transmitting invaluable ecological knowledge,” said Professor Gagliano.



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



This research expands our understanding of what a forest is. No longer can we see it as a collection of competing individuals. The trees synchronize their internal processes, align responses to stimuli, and likely share information across time and space.



This makes old-growth forests irreplaceable. Logging them erases not just biomass, but knowledge - decades or centuries of stored information that newer trees have not yet acquired.



From the lens of ecological stability, these forests act like community elders. They modulate, anticipate, and respond, ensuring the forest survives sudden changes. Protecting them becomes not only an act of conservation, but an act of safeguarding planetary memory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-hidden-intelligence-of-forests">The hidden intelligence of forests</h2>



To share this finding with a wider audience, the research team collaborated on a documentary. Il Codice del Bosco (The Forest Code) is scheduled for release in Italy in May 2025. It brings the forest’s hidden world to life, showing trees as responsive and intelligent beings.



“Basically, we are watching the famous ‘wood wide web’ in action!” said Professor Gagliano.



The documentary will visualize the forest’s electrical signals, offering viewers a glimpse into a world usually invisible. It represents a step toward redefining how we relate to nature - not as masters, but as fellow participants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trees-remember-eclipses-and-adapt">Trees remember eclipses and adapt</h2>



The study of spruce trees during a solar eclipse has revealed something profound. Trees do not simply endure. They anticipate, adapt, and align with each other through non-verbal, bioelectrical communication. They exhibit behaviors long thought reserved for animals - coordination, memory, and possibly a form of decision-making.



As we understand this hidden intelligence, our approach to ecology must evolve. Forests are not just lungs of the planet. They are its silent minds - thinking slowly, speaking in signals, and remembering events we cannot see.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsos.241786" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Society Open Science</a>.



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Trees sync up their communication signals before a solar eclipse

High in the Dolomites of northern Italy, a quiet forest of spruce trees witnessed a cosmic event. As the moon began its slow passage across the face of the sun, these trees did something extraordinary. They didn’t just react to the solar eclipse - they prepared for it. Hours before the eclipse unfolded, the inner signals of the trees began to shift in synchrony, echoing across the forest like an invisible wave. What if forests could think? What if they didn’t just survive but sensed, remembered, and...

Cloud,Dust,Of,Tree

Spring is a time for blossoms and hay we often associate pollen with allergic reactions -- a cause of sniffles and sneezes. But who would've guessed that tiny pollen spores wield such power over clouds and the overall weather?



It turns out pollen plays a vital role in facilitating the freezing of water in clouds, inciting more precipitation and cloud ice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollen-more-than-meets-the-eye">Pollen: More than meets the eye</h2>



Dr. Jan Kretzschmar, meteorologist and lead author of the study from Leipzig University, alongside co-author Professor Johannes Quaas, Professor of Theoretical Meteorology at Leipzig, decided to take a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollen-can-actually-change-the-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">closer look</a> at how pollen impacts the weather.



Apparently, pollen enhances ice formation in clouds, even at temperatures between minus 15 and minus 25 degrees Celsius (5°F to -13°F). 



Without these ice-nucleating particles (INPs), water in clouds only freezes at temperatures below minus 38 degrees Celsius (-36°F).



“This is supported by laboratory results showing that pollen acts as an ice nucleus, influencing the freezing temperature of water in clouds and promoting precipitation,” says Dr. Kretzschmar.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollen-clouds-and-weather-patterns">Pollen, clouds and weather patterns</h2>



Globally, pollen's effect on ice formation might not seem substantial compared to other substances like dust. However, on a regional and seasonal level, pollen's power <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crops-worldwide-are-insufficiently-pollinated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">becomes evident</a>. 



We usually experience the pollen onslaught in the spring. Not only do these particles trigger our allergies, but they also rise into the atmosphere, entering cold air layers and stimulating ice formation.



Our tiny hero, pollen, doesn't stay up there for long. Its size restricts it to a short atmospheric tenure. But here's the plot twist: when pollen comes in contact with humid conditions, it ruptures into smaller fragments.&nbsp;



These minute particles stick around longer in the air and in large quantities, can penetrate cold atmospheric layers, triggering ice formation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollen-s-influence-on-clouds">Pollen's influence on clouds</h2>



Understanding how pollen impacts weather requires delving into its unique properties and interaction with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-records-shatter-2024-set-to-be-hottest-year-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric conditions</a>.&nbsp;



Pollen grains possess a rough surface and can absorb moisture, making them remarkably effective as ice-nucleating particles, particularly in certain environmental conditions. 



This quality is essential in the phase transition of water from liquid to solid, as the presence of such particles lowers the energy barrier for freezing. 



Through this process, pollen effectively accelerates the formation of ice crystals within clouds, an initiation crucial for precipitation development.&nbsp;



Consequently, pollen's interaction with existing cloud constituents helps propagate more extensive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-changing-rainfall-patterns-impact-plants-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">precipitation patterns</a>, making it a pivotal factor in local meteorology during peak pollen periods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-climate-models-nbsp">Implications for climate models&nbsp;</h2>



The revelation that pollen contributes significantly to cloud microphysics presents challenges and opportunities for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainfall-is-increasingly-unpredictable-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric science</a>. 



Current climate models predominantly factor in major ice-nucleating agents like dust or soot, often overlooking the transient yet potent influence of pollen. 



Integrating pollen dynamics into these models can enhance predictive accuracy, especially in regions with prolific plant life. 



Future research is expected to focus on quantifying pollen's variability in different ecosystems, investigating its contribution to cloud dynamics, and exploring how changes in vegetation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-is-expected-to-exceed-the-1-5c-warming-limit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a> might alter its role.&nbsp;



By refining our understanding of pollen's multifaceted impact on the atmosphere, scientists can develop more comprehensive climate models that better capture the intricate interplay between terrestrial biosystems and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-gets-an-unpredictable-boost-from-air-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric processes</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollen-s-role-in-a-changing-weather">Pollen's role in a changing weather</h2>



Now, let's take a dip into the pool of climate change. With the onset of the pollen season shifting, extending, and the volumes of pollen in the air increasing, we might be looking at heightened <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cities-experience-more-rainfall-than-surrounding-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">local precipitation</a>.



Biodiversity is another piece of the puzzle. In spring, numerous plant species let loose volumes of pollen simultaneously. This natural event impacts cloud formation and the amount of ice particles in the atmosphere.&nbsp;



How vast is this impact? That's what scientists are keen to figure out. Understanding pollen's role could help generate more accurate climate models.&nbsp;



If we can correctly simulate the effect of pollen and how it interacts with the climate, we will be able to make more accurate predictions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollen-an-important-factor-in-cloud-formation-nbsp">Pollen, an important factor in cloud formation&nbsp;</h2>



So, can we consider pollen as an unsuspecting player in our planet's weather system? Perhaps. The upcoming research results are eagerly awaited. 



You might have started reading this article thinking pollen was just a trivial plant byproduct. But now, doesn't it feel like there is more to the story?



Remember, every time you sneeze this spring season, there's more going on than just a minor allergy. You might just be witnessing a phenomenon that could change our understanding of the weather.



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This research was carried out by researchers from <a href="https://www.uni-leipzig.de" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leipzig University</a>, the Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (<a href="https://www.tropos.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TROPOS</a>), the German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (<a href="https://www.idiv.de/en/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iDiv</a>) Halle-Jena-Leipzig and the <a href="https://www.bgc-jena.mpg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry</a>. It's astounding what everyday things can teach us.



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/ad747a" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Research Letters</a>.&nbsp;



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Pollen alters cloud formation and changes weather patterns

Spring is a time for blossoms and hay we often...

Psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in "magic mushrooms," is rapidly capturing the attention of healthcare experts and policymakers as a potential treatment for chronic depression.



As the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers approving psilocybin for depression treatment in the near future, we are inching closer to what could be a transformative milestone in modern medicine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-would-benefit-from-psilocybin-therapy">Who would benefit from psilocybin therapy?</h2>



The possibility of legalizing psilocybin therapy brings a compelling question to the forefront: how many individuals could truly benefit?



A peer-reviewed study led by researchers at <a href="https://www.emory.edu/home/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emory University</a>, the <a href="https://www.wisc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Wisconsin-Madison</a>, and <a href="https://www.berkeley.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Berkeley</a>, offers unprecedented insight.



The findings suggest that psilocybin-assisted therapy for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-with-a-history-of-depression-tend-to-process-more-negative-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a> could have a substantial impact in the United States.



The study estimates that between 56 and 62 percent of patients currently receiving treatment for depression - about 5.1 to 5.6 million individuals - could qualify for this therapy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-potential-of-psilocybin-therapy">The potential of psilocybin therapy</h2>



“Our findings suggest that if the FDA gives the green light, psilocybin-assisted therapy has the potential to help millions of Americans who suffer from depression,” said Syed Fayzan Rab, an Emory MD candidate and lead author of the study.



The researchers analyzed national data, revealing that nearly 15 million adults in the U.S. are affected by depression, with about 9 million currently receiving treatment each year.



Using recent clinical trial criteria, the experts assessed this population to determine eligibility for psilocybin therapy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eligibility-for-psilocybin-treatment">Eligibility for psilocybin treatment </h2>



The findings present a range of possibilities. A conservative estimate indicates that 24% of patients will be eligible if strict trial criteria is applied, while a more moderate scenario estimates that 56% of patients will be eligible under real-world medical conditions.



At the higher end, 62% of patients could qualify for psilocybin treatment, factoring in additional considerations such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/korean-red-ginseng-may-alleviate-alcohol-addiction-study-reveals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alcohol</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/child-maltreatment-triples-the-risk-of-substance-use/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">substance use</a> disorders.



Notably, the inclusion of these co-occurring conditions, which evidence suggests psilocybin may treat effectively, accounted for nearly a third of the increased eligibility. 



Even so, the 62% figure might still be an understatement, as it only includes individuals who are already receiving treatment and does not consider the potential influx of new patients.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-real-world-implementation">Challenges in real-world implementation</h2>



While the potential impact of psilocybin therapy is promising, the researchers caution that several real-world factors could limit its widespread adoption. 



“While our analysis is a crucial first step, we've only scratched the surface in understanding the true public health impact psilocybin therapy may have,” said study co-author Dr. Charles Raison.



Insurance coverage, regional access to care, and availability of trained practitioners could significantly affect its uptake.



Moreover, if the FDA approval includes off-label use for conditions beyond depression, the demand for psilocybin therapy could surge unpredictably.



As the psychedelic renaissance continues to gain momentum, further research will be critical in refining our understanding and ensuring equitable access to this potentially transformative treatment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-science-behind-the-therapy">The science behind the therapy</h2>



Psilocybin, the naturally occurring compound found in certain species of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-psilocybin-mushrooms-got-their-magic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mushrooms</a>, has long fascinated scientists for its profound effects on the human brain. 



When ingested, psilocybin is converted into psilocin and interacts with serotonin receptors - particularly the 5-HT2A receptor, which is known to play a role in mood regulation. This unique interaction is believed to produce the intense sensory and emotional experiences that are characteristic of psychedelic trips.



Recent research has suggested that psilocybin could offer more than just temporary changes in perception. 



Scientific evidence indicates that psilocybin might facilitate deeper, long-lasting shifts in the brain’s neural connectivity, potentially "rewiring" pathways associated with depression, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lsd-can-treat-crippling-anxiety-with-a-single-dose/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anxiety</a>, and addiction.



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



According to previous research, a single guided session with psilocybin can lead to significant reductions in depressive symptoms, with some patients reporting relief lasting several months.



However, while the therapeutic potential is exciting, psilocybin therapy requires careful supervision in controlled settings, ensuring that patients receive proper guidance before, during, and after treatment. 



The success of psilocybin-assisted therapy hinges not just on the chemical effects but also on the therapeutic environment, often referred to as the "set and setting," which significantly influences the patient's experience and outcomes.



As research into psychedelics continues to evolve, psilocybin remains at the forefront, holding promise as a potentially transformative treatment for a range of mental health disorders. Yet, questions about the scalability, accessibility, and long-term effects of such therapies remain. 



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Psilocybin mushrooms could help millions who suffer from depression

Psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in "magic mushrooms," is rapidly...

Stem cells in humans and animals have garnered significant attention for their ability to repair and regenerate damaged tissues. 



From treating degenerative diseases to enabling advanced therapies, these cells have revolutionized medical research. However, stem cells are not exclusive to the animal kingdom.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-stem-cells">Plant stem cells</h2>



Plants, too, possess their own remarkable stem cells, quietly driving growth and regeneration beneath their roots and shoots. 



While plant stem cells have not received the same spotlight, they hold immense potential for advancing agriculture and food sustainability.



According to Huanzhong Wang, professor of plant molecular biology at the <a href="https://cahnr.uconn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources</a> (CAHNR), plant stem cells have significant potential to support human development - especially through enhancing food supply resilience.



“It’s not just humans and animals,” said Professor Wang. “Plants have stem cells too, and we should be paying attention to them.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stem-cells-and-plant-development">Stem cells and plant development </h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-capture-plant-communication-on-video/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plants</a> owe their growth and longevity to a variety of stem cells that govern cell division and differentiation. These cells, embedded deep within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/autophagy-what-makes-plant-roots-grow-faster-stronger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">roots</a>, shoots, and the vascular system of plants, are critical to the plant's ability to develop.



Professor Wang noted that this intricate network of stem cells ensures that plants can grow both upwards and downwards, forming thicker stems or trunks when necessary.



“Plants can grow for many, many years because different types of stem cells basically ensure they can grow up in the air and deep into the ground,” said Wang. “To grow a thicker stem or trunk, they need another type of stem cell.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-role-of-the-hva-gene">Critical role of the HVA gene</h2>



While plant stem cells haven’t attracted as much attention as their biomedical counterparts, they hold incredible potential for bolstering our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-breaking-heat-is-threatening-wheat-and-the-global-food-supply/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food supply</a>. 



Professor Wang's research highlights how understanding these cells can lead to stronger, more resilient crops. His lab recently published a study in New Phytologist that describes the role of a transcription factor gene called HVA.



The HVA gene controls cell division in vascular stem cells, which are responsible for producing the vascular bundles that transport water and nutrients throughout the plant.



Overexpressing this gene dramatically increases the number of vascular bundles, boosting the plant's structural resilience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-agricultural-resilience">Enhancing agricultural resilience</h2>



“In plants without HVA gene overexpression, we observed around five to eight vascular bundles,” said Professor Wang. “In contrast, plants with one copy of the overexpressed gene had over 20, and those with two copies had more than 50 bundles.”



The implications for agriculture are clear. Taller, slender crops like corn could benefit from enhanced wind resistance with the aid of additional vascular bundles.



“When plants grow taller, there is a risk that they could topple over,” said Wang. “Having more vascular bundles ensures the plant can stand still and resist those conditions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-research-beyond-mustard-plants">Expanding research beyond mustard plants</h2>



Though the research was conducted using a mustard family model organism, the HVA gene is present in various <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thousands-of-plant-species-remain-unphotographed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant species</a>, suggesting broad applicability. 



Wang’s team plans to investigate other transcription factors in the same gene family to further unravel the mysteries of plant vascular development.



“We are interested in studying other closely related genes to find out their function,” noted Wang. “It will be interesting to study further how this gene family affects vascular development.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-stem-cells-and-sustainable-agriculture">Plant stem cells and sustainable agriculture</h2>



As the global population continues to rise, the demand for sustainable and resilient food sources becomes increasingly urgent. 



Plant stem cells, with their unique ability to drive growth and regeneration, could play a pivotal role in this effort. 



By harnessing the regenerative power of these cells, scientists can develop crops that not only grow faster but also exhibit greater resilience to environmental stressors like drought, pests, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-how-plants-adapt-to-changing-climates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changing climate</a> conditions.



Research into plant stem cells also opens up the possibility of reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. 



With more robust crops, farmers could see increased yields while minimizing environmental damage. This aligns with the broader movement toward sustainable farming and reducing the carbon footprint of agriculture.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/nph.19970" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a>.



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How plant stem cells could support human growth

Stem cells in humans and animals have garnered significant attention...

Pile,Of,Freshly,Cut,Wood,Logs,And,Empty,Field,With

Forests are the Earth's lungs, forever sucking up carbon dioxide and throwing out fresh oxygen. But that's only half the story.



Here's the twist -- forests also exhale CO2. In short, they inhale carbon dioxide for growth, but they also exhale it back out, usually in smaller amounts. A bit of an unexpected plot twist.



Now, the University of Leicester's new study has a cheeky bit more to add to this story. 



Tree stems in tropical forests that are bouncing back from logging are found to produce carbon dioxide at a greater rate than those in untouched forests.



So, bouncing back from logging, and yet they're sending out more carbon dioxide?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trees-and-carbon-dioxide">Trees and carbon dioxide</h2>



When we talk about fewer surrounding trees to compete with, the tree stems in logged forests are seen to have a growth spurt and take in carbon dioxide at a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organic-farming-practices-boost-soil-carbon-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">faster rate</a> than stems in untouched forests. 



However, this rapid growth also comes with a side effect -- a faster release of carbon dioxide. So, chopped down, left with fewer competitors, and now, they're growing at a quick pace and just as quickly giving out carbon dioxide.



This research was led by Maria Mills, a PhD student from the University of Leicester's School of Geography, Geology and the Environment (<a href="https://le.ac.uk/gge" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GGE</a>). 



Their conclusion calls for a spotlight to be thrown on logged landscapes that are currently understudied despite being more prominent than old-growth forests across the tropics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heart-of-a-forest-s-carbon-cycle">Heart of a forest's carbon cycle</h2>



What is 'carbon flux'? Think of it as the forest's way of balancing its books. It measures the net carbon balance. 



But this doesn't tell us much about where the fluctuations are coming from -- it's like knowing your bank balance without any information on the transactions.



If we don't know where the fluctuations are coming from, we also don't know why we're getting certain fluxes and what's driving those fluxes.



The researchers gathered data from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-still-fighting-climate-change-against-all-odds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> in Malaysian Borneo as part of a long-term ecological monitoring program. 



By measuring the individual components of the forest carbon cycle and carbon fluxes, they were able to observe certain patterns and fluxes. 



Understanding these is crucial for predicting future climate change and land use change scenarios.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-carbon-dioxide-in-forests">Studying carbon dioxide in forests</h2>



Did you know that most of a forest’s biomass is stored in the stems or woody trunk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-trees-is-important-but-reforestation-can-help-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a>? Well, these scientists did, and they used this information to their advantage. 



The team studied stem respiration of a tree sample, and then extrapolated the values for all the trees in the one-hectare study plots.



Shockingly, tree-level results showed higher carbon release levels per unit of stem surface area in logged versus old-growth plots. 



Specifically, 37 grams of carbon per meter squared of woody stem every month in a logged plot versus only 26 grams in an old-growth plot.



Also, it is important to note that when scaled across the entire one-hectare plots, there was no difference between logged and old-growth results.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uncharted-territory-of-carbon-dynamics">Uncharted territory of carbon dynamics</h2>



This study was about considering individual trees versus the whole ecosystem, and what drives carbon emissions at both levels. 



"There are differences between individual trees, and between individual ecosystems, for example logged versus unlogged forests," Mills explained.



“We see higher respiration per square meter in logged plots because the trees in those plots are growing faster. Growth has a metabolic cost, so we get respiration following growth." 



The trees in logged plots grow faster because they have access to more light -- as there are more gaps in logged plots from when timber trees have been extracted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forests-logging-and-carbon-emissions">Forests, logging, and carbon emissions</h2>



There are other reasons for these differences which link back to the trees’ functional traits and soil nutrients, but ultimately it comes down to the priority for trees in logged <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-fires-diminish-forests-carbon-storage-ability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> to invest in growth. 



In old-growth plots, alternatively, there is a lot more investment and priority for tree maintenance.



"Given how expansive logged forests are, they could be considered as the ‘new normal’ for contemporary tropical forests.  We need to put more research efforts into understanding what goes on in logged forests, both in terms of their carbon fluxes and their wider ecological functioning," Mills concluded.



To sum it all up, Mills and her team uncovered very important information on how climate change is impacted by forest carbon dynamics. 



Let's remember, understanding how forests drive environmental conditions is not just about satisfying our curiosity, it's also crucial in our fight against climate change. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/nph.20043" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a>.



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Trees in forests recovering from logging release much more carbon dioxide

Forests are the Earth's lungs, forever sucking up carbon dioxide...

What lies at the bottom of the ocean? For many, it’s a dark and mysterious place, full of creatures we know little about. But sometimes, discoveries shed light on these mysteries. A new study has done just that, focusing on an unusual deep ocean dweller who likes to eat Sargassum.



Bathyopsurus nybelini, an isopod living nearly 3.7 miles (6,100 meters) deep beneath the ocean's surface, has a very unique diet: it feeds on Sargassum algae that sinks down from the ocean’s surface.



The study, led by Johanna Weston, a hadal ecologist at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (<a href="https://www.whoi.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WHOI</a>), reveals just how connected the surface of our oceans is to the deep sea. 



Let's find out what makes this discovery so fascinating and important.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sargassum-in-the-deep-ocean">Sargassum in the deep ocean</h2>



In the summer of 2022, a group of researchers set out on an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/five-new-hydrothermal-vents-discovered-in-the-pacific-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adventure with Alvin</a>, a human-occupied submersible, to explore the Puerto Rico Trench and the Mid-Cayman Spreading Center in the Caribbean Sea. 



Thanks to Alvin's recent upgrades, including better deep-diving abilities and high-res image capturing, this journey became a reality.



While exploring the ocean depths, the team observed something unexpected: an isopod swimming upside down and away from the seafloor, clutching a frond of Sargassum algae as long as its own body. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-deep-sea-worm-discovered-off-costa-rica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">At these depths</a> -- between 5,001 and 6,284 meters -- Alvin filmed 32 individual isopods and collected two samples for further study. 



According to Weston, “It was exciting to see this beautiful animal actively interacting with Sargassum, deep in the ocean. This isopod is so rarely seen; only a handful of specimens were collected during the groundbreaking 1948 Deep Sea Swedish Expedition.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-food-source">Unexpected food source</h2>



Sargassum is a type of brown algae typically found floating on the ocean's surface, forming dense mats that stretch for miles. In the sunlit zone, it thrives, photosynthesizing like any other plant. 



However, when Sargassum dies or detaches from its floating mats, it begins a slow, downward journey into the dark abyss.



That’s where Bathyopsurus nybelini comes in. This deep-sea isopod seems to wait patiently, adapted to find and feast on this sunken source of nutrients. 



“This isopod illustrates that an animal in a dark and high-pressure environment at the bottom of the seafloor has evolved multiple adaptations to feed on algae that grow in a sunlit ecosystem," explains Mackenzie Gerringer, a deep-ocean physiologist at <a href="https://www.geneseo.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SUNY Geneseo</a> and co-lead author of the study.



It’s an unlikely meal, but one that provides essential nourishment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-isopods-and-deep-ocean-sargassum">Isopods and deep ocean Sargassum</h2>



Why is this discovery such a big deal? For one, Bathyopsurus nybelini has developed unique adaptations to survive in an environment where most creatures would struggle to find food. 



It uses a specialized swimming stroke, moving upside down and backward with large paddle-like legs, to carry Sargassum fronds off the seafloor. This might be a clever strategy to avoid predators by lifting its food into the water column.



But the adaptations don’t stop there. This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-deep-sea-crustacean-species-discovered-in-the-bahamas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">isopod has mouthparts</a> that are serrated and ideal for tearing and consuming the tough, fibrous Sargassum. 



Inside its gut, it harbors bacteria that help break down the algae’s complex polysaccharides -- molecules that are notoriously difficult to digest. 



“Life everywhere, even in the deepest depths of the sea, is inexorably connected to the microorganisms around it,” says Logan Peoples, an aquatic microbial ecologist at <a href="https://flbs.umt.edu/newflbs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Flathead Lake Biological Station</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-web-of-life-from-surface-to-seafloor">Web of life from surface to seafloor</h2>



The presence of Sargassum at such deep depths has bigger implications for how we understand ocean ecology. This study highlights the close connection between the surface ocean and the deep sea.



When Sargassum sinks, it plays a role in carbon cycling and storage, which affects global climate patterns. 



We’re already seeing significant ecological and economic impacts on coastal communities due to changes in how much Sargassum is found in the tropical Atlantic and Caribbean Sea.



Researchers are eager to figure out just how much Sargassum makes it to the seafloor and how its arrival varies with the seasons and long-term environmental changes. 



Understanding these dynamics could help us predict how deep <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-pigs-unicumbers-strange-stunning-creatures-discovered-abyssal-plains-ccz/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean communities</a> respond to shifting environmental conditions.



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



The discovery of Bathyopsurus nybelini feeding on Sargassum also highlights the importance of advanced technologies in deep-sea exploration. 



Alvin, the submersible that made this observation possible, was recently certified to dive to depths of 6,500 meters. 



This achievement opens new doors for marine research and underscores the significance of developing new tools and techniques to explore and study the ocean’s most remote regions. 



As Anna Michel, Chief Scientist for the <a href="https://ndsf.whoi.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Deep Submergence Facility</a>, noted, "The discovery described in this paper was possible due to its new deeper diving capabilities, which is very exciting for the Alvin team."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-sea-ecosystems-and-human-impact">Deep-sea ecosystems and human impact</h2>



Why should we care about an isopod munching on seaweed at the bottom of the ocean? Well, it all comes down to how connected our planet’s ecosystems are. 



As <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sea-mining-forms-dust-clouds-that-devastate-marine-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human activities change ocean conditions</a> -- from climate change to pollution -- it’s really important to understand how surface processes link to deep ocean ecosystems.



Every discovery, like that of Bathyopsurus nybelini, reminds us that even the most extreme environments on Earth are part of a larger, interconnected web of life. 



The more we learn, the better equipped we are to protect these ecosystems and manage the impacts of our actions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-sargassum-on-the-deep-ocean">Impact of Sargassum on the deep ocean</h2>



This study is just the beginning. Scientists plan to continue investigating how Sargassum and other surface-derived materials affect life in the deep sea. 



More research is needed to understand the seasonal and long-term changes in the abundance of Sargassum and its impact on deep-ocean food webs.



As we explore further, new discoveries will undoubtedly reshape our understanding of these hidden ecosystems. 



As Weston puts it, “We’re excited to share its amazing story of adaptation and this important reminder that habitats and organisms on our planet are deeply and intricately connected.”



The ocean is vast, and there is so much more to uncover. So, what other secrets lie in the deep, dark waters? Only time, curiosity, and continued exploration will tell. 



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2024.0823" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences</a>.



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Robot discovers surprising food source for deep ocean creatures

What lies at the bottom of the ocean? For many,...

We've entered an age when a once demonized plant is experiencing a resurgence in acceptance. It’s an era of fading misconceptions and growing understanding. Just as the scent of change permeates the air, so too does the aroma of cannabis among older adults.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-age-no-barrier-to-cannabis-use">Age: No barrier to cannabis use </h2>



Older adults are not hiding their affinity for the herb. A recent study by the University of Michigan <a href="https://www.healthyagingpoll.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Poll on Healthy Aging</a> reveals that 21% of individuals aged 50 and above have used some form of cannabis in the past year.



THC, the component that gives cannabis its distinguishing "buzz," is a common ingredient in products ranging from edibles to topical creams.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-older-adults-using-cannabis">Older adults using cannabis</h2>



What's fascinating is the consistency of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-production-may-soon-get-a-major-boost/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis ventures</a>. More than half of the respondents admitted to frequent use, with 12% of adults aged 50 and above admitting to monthly use. 



The study showed that individuals aged 50-64, those in lesser health, or in lower-income households were more likely to report monthly cannabis use.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-driving-the-trend">What is driving the trend?</h2>



The question beckons, "why"? Many older adults turn to cannabis for sleep aid (68%), pain relief (63%), mental health support (53%), or simply to unwind or feel at ease (81%).



However, this newfound <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recreational-cannabis-use-protects-against-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endorsement of cannabis</a> comes with its share of hitches. The most concerning results disclose that 20% of annual users admitted to driving within two hours of usage.



This percentage jumps to a startling 27% among monthly users. In addition, nearly half of frequent users have not discussed their use with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-use-directly-linked-to-head-and-neck-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthcare professionals</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-risk-of-cannabis">Growing risk of cannabis</h2>



Dr. Erin E. Bonar is a psychologist affiliated with IHPI, the University of Michigan <a href="https://medicine.umich.edu/dept/psychiatry/programs/addiction-center" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Addiction Center</a>, and the University of Michigan <a href="https://injurycenter.umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Injury Prevention Center</a>.



"With some form of cannabis use now legalized in 38 states and on the ballot this November in several others, and the federal rescheduling process under way, cannabis use is likely to grow,” noted Dr. Bonar.



“But as this poll shows, it is not risk-free, and more attention is needed to identify and reduce those risks."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-beliefs-on-cannabis">Changing beliefs on cannabis</h2>



Dr. Bonar emphasized the need for heightened <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smoking-cannabis-significantly-increases-the-risk-of-heart-attack/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">public awareness</a>. With their knowledge of cannabis rooted in the past, older adults may not realize the changes in potency and addictive potential of modern cannabis.



This gap is reflected in the finding that 21% of older adults do not believe cannabis is any stronger now than it was two to three decades ago. Over a quarter were unaware of the possibility of cannabis addiction.



For those who use cannabis, especially those who use it frequently, poll director&nbsp;Dr. Jeffrey Kullgren said the findings show the importance of communicating with a health care provider about their use.



Only 56% of monthly users have had this conversation with their doctor. Such discussions can help spot <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemical-found-in-cannabis-plants-can-actually-reduce-cannabis-induced-anxiety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">risky drug interactions</a> and early indications of dependence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signs-of-dependence">Signs of dependence</h2>



Cannabis dependence is more common than perceived. In the study, 22% of monthly users increased their consumption to achieve the desired effect, and 21% reported a decreased effect from the same amount. 



Furthermore, 17% increased the frequency or quantity of cannabis use and 13% reported strong cravings or desires to use THC-rich cannabis.



Dr. Kullgren, a primary care physician at the <a href="https://www.va.gov/ann-arbor-health-care/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System</a> and associate professor of internal medicine at U-M, emphasized the need for transparency about cannabis use. Such dialogue could help avoid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-use-linked-to-elevated-risk-of-severe-covid-19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unexpected drug interactions</a> and diagnose potential signs of dependence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-the-landscape-of-cannabis-policy">Navigating the landscape of cannabis policy</h2>



The evolving landscape of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-legalization-does-not-increase-youth-substance-abuse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis legislation</a> remains a decisive factor in its acceptance and usage among older adults.



As more states and countries relax legal restrictions, there is an increasing need for policies that also address the healthcare needs of the aging population. 



These policies must provide a solid framework for healthcare professionals to guide patients safely and foster informed use.



The delicate balance between enabling access and ensuring safety highlights the urgency for comprehensive public health guidelines and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/americas-cannabis-capitals-people-these-us-cities-consume-most-marijuana/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">educational initiatives</a>.



As legislation advances, policymakers must consider the unique needs of older adults who often utilize cannabis for therapeutic purposes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pathway-to-future-research">Pathway to future research</h2>



As federal cannabis restrictions shift, research constraints may relax, potentially paving the way for more clinical trials involving cannabis products and human participants.



In conclusion, while the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-smokers-not-lazy-unmotivated-despite-stereotypes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">acceptance and use of cannabis</a> are on the rise, it is crucial we do so responsibly.



Regular communication with healthcare providers, awareness of risks, understanding potential dependencies, and staying updated with the latest research are key elements to focus on.



The report is published by <a href="https://www.healthyagingpoll.org/reports-more/report/how-older-adults-use-think-about-and-discuss-cannabis">National Poll on Healthy Aging</a>.



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Cannabis use is rising significantly among older adults

We've entered an age when a once demonized plant is...

Environmentalists and climate scientists have long emphasized the urgency of preserving the Amazon rainforest.



Contributing significantly towards the global climate-control mechanism, the Amazon rainforest is more than a verdant wonder - it is the breathing "lungs" of our planet.



However, a startling revelation about the world's largest tropical rainforest has raised new concerns.



Almost 40% of the Amazon - the areas most crucial to mitigating climate change - remain unprotected. These regions are not shielded as Indigenous sanctuaries or nature reserves, according to a new report.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amazon-s-unprotected-regions">Amazon's unprotected regions</h2>



These unprotected territories are primarily situated in the extreme southwest of the Amazon in Peru, and the far northeast in Brazil, French Guiana, and Suriname.



What makes these parts exceptionally significant in the climate change combat "Those parts of the Amazon have the biggest, densest trees and the most continuous canopy cover," noted Matt Finer, who leads the Amazon Conservation's <a href="https://www.maaproject.org/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monitoring of the Andean Amazon Project</a> (MAAP).



These regions store large amounts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-release-carbon-faster-than-we-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a>, potentially turning into climate-warming greenhouse gases if jeopardized by fire or logging.



Combining the powers of satellite imaging and machine-learning models, the Amazon Conservation team produced a 3D image of the forest, focusing solely on aboveground vegetation.



The analysis has been instrumental in mapping the most pristine parts of the Amazon that still exist. "It really just gives this overall roadmap in terms of some of the highest carbon areas that are important to protect," said Finer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diminishing-levels-of-protection">Diminishing levels of protection </h2>



According to the MAAP analysis, 61% of the peak carbon areas in the Amazon are guarded as indigenous reserves or other protected lands. However, the remaining areas lack any formal designation.



Countries like Brazil, Suriname, and French Guiana show a diminished level of protection with only 51% of high carbon areas labeled for preservation. Peru, on the other hand, protects a higher ratio of its critical areas. 



However, certain unprotected regions have been marked for logging, causing concern among environmentalists.



With an earlier analysis indicating that the Amazon held a staggering 71.5 billion tons of carbon, approximately double the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global carbon dioxide emissions</a> anticipated for 2022, the need to protect these regions becomes more crucial than ever.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-the-unprotected-amazon">Protecting the unprotected Amazon</h2>



The study also revealed that the Amazon absorbed more carbon than it released in the decade leading up to 2022, offering a glimmer of hope for the global climate scenario. 



Yet, this is still a hot topic of debate. Some research suggests that the Amazon has now become a source of emissions, instead of a carbon sink.



Without a doubt, safeguarding our environment is not just an option, it's our duty. Recognizing the urgency to protect these remaining pristine parts of the Amazon, therefore, is vital for the long-term health of our planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-impact-of-the-amazon">Global impact of the Amazon</h2>



The Amazon rainforest plays a pivotal role in maintaining global climate stability. Often referred to as the "lungs of the Earth," the forest absorbs vast amounts of carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate the effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-takes-a-major-toll-on-childrens-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>.



Its complex ecosystems also serve as critical habitats for millions of species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. 



Beyond its ecological significance, the Amazon influences weather patterns across the planet, contributing to rainfall in regions far beyond South America.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-threat-of-deforestation">The threat of deforestation</h2>



Despite its importance, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brazilian-amazon-crisis-deforestation-is-escalating-in-indigenous-territories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deforestation</a> and degradation continue to threaten the Amazon. Logging, mining, and agricultural expansion have left significant portions of the forest vulnerable.



The destruction of these areas not only accelerates biodiversity loss but also disrupts the Amazon's ability to act as a carbon sink. 



If deforestation trends continue, scientists warn that the Amazon could reach a tipping point where it would shift from being a vital carbon store to a carbon emitter, exacerbating the global climate crisis.



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



Protecting the Amazon is not just a regional issue but a global responsibility. Efforts to create more protected areas, enforce conservation laws, and involve indigenous communities in land stewardship are crucial for safeguarding the rainforest’s future.



As the largest tropical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-rainforest-is-approaching-widespread-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainforest</a> on Earth, the Amazon's preservation will play an essential role in the fight against climate change. 



Every unprotected area represents a missed opportunity to secure the planet’s ecological balance, and immediate action is necessary to prevent further loss.



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Nearly 40% of climate-critical Amazon rainforest is unprotected

Environmentalists and climate scientists have long emphasized the urgency of...

A new study reveals that bees and other pollinators are not just attracted to colorful petals or the sweet scent of nectar. The hidden bullseyes in the flower pattern play a significant role in attracting bees.



Hibiscus flowers, for instance, possess an invisible pre-pattern during the early stages of petal formation. This blueprint dictates the size of their bullseyes, a feature that directly impacts their attractiveness to pollinators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bees-and-flower-patterns">Bees and flower patterns</h2>



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a>'s Sainsbury Laboratory have unearthed some compelling findings. It turns out, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-bee-day-2024-bee-engaged-with-youth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> are quite choosy. 



Bees have a clear preference for larger bullseyes and buzz faster towards artificial flower discs with larger bullseyes. This preference may enhance the efficiency of both bees and blossoms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-patterns-the-making-of-bullseyes">Hidden patterns: The making of bullseyes</h2>



The researchers ventured into the mysterious world of petal designs. Using a small hibiscus plant as a model, they compared closely related plants with identical flower sizes but differently sized bullseyes.



Dr. Edwige Moyroud, a leading researcher at the Sainsbury Laboratory, has been studying the mechanisms underlying pattern formation in petals. She noted that a pre-pattern sets up on the petal surface early in the flower’s formation, long before any visible color shows up on the petal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-bullseye-patterns">Evolution of bullseye patterns</h2>



Study lead author Dr. Lucie Riglet further investigated how these bullseye patterns form and evolve. She discovered that the pre-pattern begins as a small, crescent-shaped region, even before the bullseye is visible on tiny petals that are less than 0.2mm in size.



"At the earliest stage we could dissect, the petals have around 700 cells and are still greenish in color, with no visible purple pigment and no difference in cell shape or size," noted Dr. Riglet.



"When the petal further develops to 4,000 cells, it still does not have any visible pigment, but we identified a specific region where the cells were larger than their surrounding neighbors.&nbsp;This is the pre-pattern.”&nbsp;



The cells that Dr Riglet studied are essential as they mark the position of the bullseye boundary, the line on the petal where the color changes from purple to white. And what happens without a boundary? No bullseye.



Dr. Argyris Zardilis developed a computational model that delivered additional insights. These models showed that hibiscus can change bullseye dimensions very early during the pre-patterning phase by adjusting cell expansion or division later in development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flower-patterns-from-a-bee-s-perspective">Flower patterns from a bee's perspective</h2>



Dr. Riglet explored the impact of the bullseye patterns on pollinators, using artificial flower discs that mimic the dimensions of the three different bullseyes.



“The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honey-bees-face-a-multitude-of-complex-stressors-in-the-field/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> not only preferred the medium and larger bullseyes over the small bullseye, they were also 25% quicker visiting these larger flower discs," said Dr. Riglet.



"Foraging requires a lot of energy and so if a bee can visit 4 flowers rather than 3 flowers in the same time, then this is probably beneficial for the bee, and also the plants."



These pre-pattern strategies in flowers could have deep evolutionary roots, possibly influencing the diversity of flower patterns across different species. 



The research team, led by Dr. Edwige Moyroud, continues to dig into the signals that generate these early patterns and explore similar pre-patterning mechanisms in other plant organs.



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



The newfound understanding of bullseye patterns' impact on pollinator behavior holds significant implications for both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honey-bee-colonies-are-collapsing-as-climate-change-progresses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation and agriculture</a>.



Enhancing our knowledge of these floral designs can aid in developing strategies to bolster pollinator visits, which is vital for the success of crops reliant on pollination. 



By aligning agricultural practices with these insights, farmers could potentially boost yields by modifying or selecting plant varieties with optimal bullseye patterns that are more attractive to pollinators, thereby improving pollination efficiency and crop production.



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



The scope of research into bullseye patterns is set to expand, opening new avenues for discovery. Future studies may explore the genetic underpinnings that determine the formation and variability of these patterns in different floral species.



Unraveling the genetic and environmental factors that modulate bullseye dimensions can lead to unprecedented insights into plant-pollinator coevolution. 



Furthermore, exploring the application of computational models across diverse plant species could unveil universal principles of pattern formation, informing not only botanical science but also biomimetic design in technology and art.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bees-bullseyes-and-biodiversity">Bees, bullseyes, and biodiversity</h2>



This research not only advances our understanding of plant biology but also reinforces the intricate bonds between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-spring-flowers-can-save-bees-and-boost-pollination/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants and their environments</a>. 



The precision of natural designs plays a crucial role in species survival and evolution. The H. trionum, for example, with larger bullseye sizes, possibly attracts more pollinators, enhancing its reproductive success.



So, the next time you admire a flower, remember there's more to it than meets the eye. Beneath the surface beauty, there's a world of complex, precise patterns - nature's very own masterpiece.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adp5574" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Bees prefer flowers with large bullseyes

A new study reveals that bees and other pollinators are...

In an astounding revelation, scientists have shed new light on the contributing factors behind Amazon rainforest carbon emissions. 



Using high-resolution aerial scans and cutting-edge computational modeling, the researchers have identified wildfires, storms, and selective logging as the dominant culprits.



These disturbances, once thought to have a lesser impact, surprisingly outweigh traditional clear-cutting practices in terms of Amazon carbon loss.



This new understanding challenges long-held assumptions and highlights the urgent need to address multiple drivers of degradation to protect the Amazon’s crucial role in regulating Earth's climate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unveiling-the-drivers-of-amazon-carbon-loss">Unveiling the drivers of Amazon carbon loss</h2>



Instead of relying on conventional methods, the researchers used drones equipped with state-of-the-art light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensors.



These sophisticated devices allowed the experts to accurately map and measure tree biomass and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/circular-economy-needed-to-reduce-americas-carbon-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon emissions</a> across vast stretches of Brazilian forests.



"Here, we estimate changes of forest aboveground carbon (AGC) stocks attributed to both human-induced degradation and natural disturbances, and the postdisturbance regrowth over an area of active land use change in the southern Brazilian Amazon," noted the researchers.



With the backing of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the scientists uncovered alarming findings. Of the estimated 90.5 million tons of carbon lost annually, a staggering 60 million tons were attributed to forest degradation caused by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-in-old-growth-amazon-forests-increased-by-152-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a>, storms, and selective logging.



In contrast, only about 24 million tons could be traced back to clear-cutting, challenging the traditional view of deforestation as the primary driver of carbon loss in the Amazon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-dynamics-in-forests">Carbon dynamics in forests </h2>



Study co-author K.C. Cushman is an environmental scientist and expert in data analytics at the <a href="https://www.ornl.gov/?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwxY-3BhAuEiwAu7Y6sz_5c-_3HT-Qu7Wo4kTAuc8pjs6xQqv5i_IiLOxqGcEn-S4Su1nfFRoCAa8QAvD_BwE">Oak Ridge National Laboratory</a>.



"It's important to calibrate models to local conditions to achieve the best estimates," noted Cushman. "Tree shape varies a lot from one setting to another even if it's the same species."



The research highlights the urgency of addressing these newly uncovered triggers for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-rainforest-is-approaching-widespread-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainforest</a> carbon emissions.



Cushman and his team are now applying similar cutting-edge methodologies to study carbon dynamics in forests across the U.S. Southeast and also in tropical regions, further broadening the understanding of global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-explores-forest-degradation-in-the-atlantic-rainforest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest degradation</a>.



While clear-cutting was once considered the primary villain behind carbon emissions in rainforests, the new findings shift the focus to other key contributors.



Coordinated action is urgently needed to safeguard the planet's rainforests, which play an essential role in stabilizing Earth's climate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amazon-carbon-loss-and-global-warming">Amazon carbon loss and global warming</h2>



The Amazon rainforest is often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth” due to its vast capacity to absorb and store carbon dioxide, acting as a critical buffer against climate change. 



Covering an estimated 5.5 million square kilometers, the Amazon plays a crucial role in regulating the planet’s climate by sequestering massive amounts of carbon from the atmosphere, which helps mitigate global warming.



Recent findings emphasize that disturbances such as wildfires, storms, and selective logging significantly disrupt this delicate balance, leading to a surge in carbon emissions. 



These destructive forces not only release stored carbon but also weaken the forest's ability to regenerate and continue functioning as a major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-weather-can-flip-forests-from-carbon-sinks-to-carbon-sources/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon sink</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-efforts-to-mitigate-climate-change">Efforts to mitigate climate change </h2>



Protecting the Amazon’s integrity is not just a regional issue but a global necessity. As the Amazon continues to lose its ability to act as a carbon sink, efforts to mitigate climate change could face serious setbacks. 



Without immediate intervention, the degradation of this invaluable ecosystem could accelerate, pushing the world closer to climate tipping points.



In light of these new insights into the hidden drivers of carbon emissions, scientists and policymakers are calling for a more comprehensive approach to Amazon rainforest conservation. 



Efforts must move beyond simply preventing clear-cutting and should address forest degradation caused by smaller-scale but equally destructive activities. 



Integrating advanced technologies like LiDAR into conservation strategies will be vital in monitoring and managing forest health. 



Local communities, governments, and international organizations must collaborate to enforce stricter logging regulations, prevent wildfires, and restore degraded areas to safeguard the Amazon’s ecological and carbon-regulating functions.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2310157121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Hidden triggers of Amazon carbon emissions revealed

In an astounding revelation, scientists have shed new light on...

It is a well-established fact that the ozone layer shields our planet from harmful ultraviolet radiation, playing a vital role in protecting life on Earth. 



Preserving this layer stands as a golden feather in the environmental preservation cap, representing one of humanity’s greatest successes in global environmental cooperation.



However, when ozone managed to take residence at the ground level, it ceased to be a silent guardian; it became a dangerous threat to both the environment and public health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-ground-level-ozone">Impacts of ground-level ozone </h2>



Ground-level ozone is a harmful combination of pollutants emitted from human activities such as industrial processes, vehicle emissions, and deforestation. 



Under the unforgiving glare of sunlight, ozone pollution is causing considerable disturbance to our ecosystems.



Not only does it pose serious health risks to humans, leading to respiratory and cardiovascular problems, but it also interferes with plants' ability to absorb carbon dioxide, undermining their role in mitigating climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ozone-and-stunted-forest-growth">Ozone and stunted forest growth</h2>



New research published in the journal Nature Geoscience paints an alarming picture of the growing threat posed by ground-level <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ozone-pollution-may-endanger-millions-by-2050/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ozone pollution</a>. It is significantly stunting the annual growth of tropical forests, with an average reduction of 5.1% in new growth.



The situation is even more severe in Asia, where certain regions are experiencing a dramatic 10.9% decline in new forest growth, highlighting the unequal impact of ozone pollution across the globe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduction-in-forest-carbon-storage">Reduction in forest carbon storage </h2>



According to Dr. Alexander Cheesman from <a href="https://www.jcu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Cook University</a> and the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a>, tropical forests play a crucial role in offsetting carbon dioxide emissions. "Our study shows that air pollution can jeopardize this critical ecosystem service."



The study estimates that ozone pollution has prevented the capture of a staggering 290 million tons of carbon annually since 2000.



This significant loss of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a> sequestration capacity underscores the detrimental effect ozone pollution is having on tropical forests, which are critical for absorbing excess atmospheric carbon and mitigating the impacts of climate change.



"The resulting cumulative loss equates to a 17% reduction in carbon removal by tropical forests so far this century," said Dr. Cheesman.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ozone-pollution-and-forest-restoration-efforts">Ozone pollution and forest restoration efforts</h2>



Urbanization, industrialization, and increased burning of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-fossil-fuels-kills-5-million-people-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil fuels</a> have escalated emissions of "precursor" molecules, such as nitrogen oxides, that lead to ozone formation. 



"Ozone concentrations across the tropics are projected to rise further due to increased precursor emissions and altered atmospheric chemistry in a warming world," said Dr. Flossie Brown, co-lead author of the study.



These rising ozone levels pose a significant threat to current and future forest restoration efforts, particularly in areas critical to mitigating climate change. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-air-quality">Improving air quality</h2>



"We found that areas of current and future forest restoration are disproportionately affected by this elevated ozone. It is clear that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-and-bushes-near-highways-improve-air-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality</a> will continue to play an important but often overlooked part in the way forests absorb and store carbon," said Dr. Brown. 



Improving air quality is vital for enabling forests to effectively absorb and store carbon, noted study co-author Professor Stephen Sitch.



"Embracing a future with greater environmental protection would lead to reduced ground-level ozone, improved air quality, and the additional benefit of enhanced carbon uptake in tropical forests," said Professor Stitch.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dual-nature-of-ozone">The dual nature of ozone</h2>



Ozone exists in two forms: one as a protective shield in the stratosphere and the other as a harmful pollutant at ground level. 



While stratospheric ozone is essential for blocking harmful ultraviolet radiation, ground-level ozone (also known as tropospheric ozone) forms when pollutants from vehicles, industrial activities, and fires react with sunlight.



This ground-level ozone acts as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenhouse-gas-emissions-reach-another-all-time-high/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas</a>, trapping heat and contributing to climate change.



Ozone pollution is not only a threat to tropical forests but also to a wide range of ecosystems. In addition to stunting forest growth, ozone can damage crops, reduce agricultural productivity, and affect water quality by altering plant and soil interactions.



The broader ecological consequences of ozone pollution are becoming clearer, signaling an urgent need for stricter air quality regulations and the reduction of emissions that lead to its formation. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41561-024-01530-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>.



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Ozone pollution is stunting tropical forest growth

It is a well-established fact that the ozone layer shields...

Cannabis agriculture is experiencing a revolution brought on by genetic research, propelling a new era in the cultivation and production of this globally sought-after crop.



At the heart of this transformation is the ability to manipulate plant genetics for optimized growth and productivity. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-genetics-and-enhanced-production">Cannabis genetics and enhanced production </h2>



A recent breakthrough centers around a key gene called CsMIKC1, which influences the number of flowering sites in Cannabis sativa.



The role of this gene in the development of the inflorescence, the flowering part of a plant, presents brand new opportunities for enhancing productivity in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infectious-pathogen-has-spread-to-90-percent-of-cannabis-farms-in-california/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis farming</a>.



Through meticulous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/boosting-crop-colors-with-gene-editing-can-improve-weed-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gene editing</a> and functional analysis, scientists have uncovered the substantial impact of CsMIKC1 on flower production. The discovery could lead to transformative change in agricultural practices.



The research may ultimately pave the way to the creation of highly productive and resilient cannabis strains that are custom-designed to maximize both medicinal and industrial uses. This would help to address the growing global demand for specialized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabinoids-as-pesticides-study-reveals-potential-of-hemp-compounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabinoids</a> and hemp-based products.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-demand-for-cannabis-products">Global demand for cannabis products</h2>



The perceived value of Cannabis sativa is largely hinged on its cannabinoids, derived chiefly from female inflorescences. However, optimizing flower and grain yield has been a daunting task due to inadequately explored genetic control of inflorescence development. 



As the global demand for cannabis-derived products escalates, it is vital to understand the regulatory mechanisms that lie beneath the surface.



Research into the genetic influences on inflorescence development can lay the fundamental groundwork for developing strategies to meet global production requirements.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inflorescence-in-cannabis-sativa">Inflorescence in Cannabis sativa</h2>



A collaborative team of scientists led by the <a href="https://www.caas.cn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences</a> has gained significant insights into the genetic makeup of inflorescence.



"Female inflorescence is the primary output of medical cannabis. It contains hundreds of cannabinoids that accumulate in the glandular trichomes," noted the researchers. "However, little is known about the genetic mechanisms governing cannabis inflorescence development."



The experts identified the CsMIKC1 gene as a controlling factor in cannabis flowering. They examined how mutations and overexpression of CsMIKC1 influenced flower and grain production. The study highlights the gene’s potential for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reducing-nitrogen-oxide-pollution-could-boost-crop-yields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amplifying crop yields</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extensive-genetic-network">Extensive genetic network </h2>



In their investigation, the scientists identified a key quantitative trait locus (QTL) on chromosome 8 linked to the number of inflorescences per branch, leading to the discovery of the CsMIKC1 gene. 



This gene works as a transcription factor, influencing inflorescence growth by interacting with proteins CsBPC2 and CsVIP3. 



When the CsMIKC1 gene was overexpressed in transgenic plants, there was a significant hike in the number of inflorescence, flower production, and grain yield. 



Conversely, mutants with CsMIKC1 showed stunted growth and lower yields, highlighting the regulatory significance of this gene. 



The study also revealed the influence of ethylene signaling pathways on CsMIKC1. By mapping key genes regulated by CsMIKC1, the researchers identified an extensive genetic network that governs inflorescence formation, providing crucial insights for future crop enhancement strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-optimizing-crop-performance">Optimizing crop performance </h2>



Study co-author Dr. Jianguang Su is an expert at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences.



“The identification of CsMIKC1 as a regulator of inflorescence development marks a significant step forward in cannabis genetics. This gene is crucial in determining flower yield, which has profound implications for both medicinal and industrial uses," said Dr. Su. 



"By utilizing genetic modification techniques, we can develop targeted approaches to optimize crop performance, enhancing the Cannabis industry’s potential. This research not only deepens our understanding but also opens up exciting possibilities for developing high-yielding strains.”



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



Looking ahead, it's clear that the discovery of CsMIKC1 and its influence on inflorescence development opens up a whole new domain for genetic engineering to boost cannabis yields.



This newfound knowledge can stimulate the creation of novel cultivars with improved flower and grain production, optimizing agricultural efficiency. 



Furthermore, the involvement of ethylene signaling pathways presents opportunities for refined agronomic practices, such as ethylene treatments, to further amplify flower yield.



These advancements hold enormous promise to escalate cannabis production, keeping pace with the accelerating demand for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-may-be-a-highly-effective-treatment-for-cancer-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">medicinal</a> and industrial applications globally.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/hr/article/11/8/uhae161/7691881" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Horticulture Research</a>.



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Cannabis production may soon get a major boost

Cannabis agriculture is experiencing a revolution brought on by genetic...

The Amazon rainforest is a unique biodiversity hotspot, home to an astonishing array of plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth. Many of these species are restricted to specific regions, but the reasons behind this have long puzzled scientists. 



Now, a new international study, led by the <a href="https://www.ceh.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UK Center for Ecology &amp; Hydrology</a> (UKCEH), offers fresh insights into the Amazon's evolution during the last Ice Age, between 2.6 million and 11,700 years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fragile-ecosystems-of-the-amazon">Fragile ecosystems of the Amazon</h2>



The research challenges long-standing beliefs about how the Amazon <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-rainforest-and-the-looming-threat-of-drought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainforest</a> responded to climatic changes during the Ice Age. 



The findings suggest that the Amazon is far more sensitive to environmental fluctuations than previously thought, providing yet another reminder of the dangers posed by rapid, human-induced climate change and large-scale land use shifts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interconnected-refuge-for-specialized-species">Interconnected refuge for specialized species</h2>



For years, scientists have debated whether, during the Ice Age, the Amazon was divided into isolated “forest islands” known as refugia, or whether the forest remained continuous, similar to its current expanse.&nbsp;



The UKCEH-led study, published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s44185-024-00056-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">npj Biodiversity</a>, offers a new perspective: while forest islands existed, they were connected by woodlands and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazons-rainforests-are-at-risk-of-transforming-into-dry-grassy-savannas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">savannas</a>. This allowed certain adaptable animals to move between different habitats, while acting as a barrier for more specialized species that rely on specific ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-of-the-amazon">Biodiversity of the Amazon</h2>



The vegetation and climate of a region play a key role in natural evolution. As environmental conditions changed, animals across the Amazon adapted, leading to the emergence of new species in different areas. This process explains why the Amazon hosts such a diverse range of life today.



“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-still-fighting-climate-change-against-all-odds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate changes</a> in the past played a huge role in shaping how the Amazon forest looked and where it grew. Similar changes are coming very soon and much faster,” said lead author Douglas Kelley, a land surface modeler at UKCEH. 



“Previously, fluctuations in climate took thousands of years to happen, enabling plants and animals to adapt, but now significant global warming is happening within decades due to increasing human-driven greenhouse gas emissions.”



The research team included scientists from institutions such as the <a href="https://www.ontario.ca/page/forest-research" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ontario Forest Research Institute</a>, Kiel University in Germany, the UK’s Met Office, and the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amazon-biodiversity-of-the-ice-age-nbsp">Amazon biodiversity of the Ice Age&nbsp;</h2>



By combining advanced climate and vegetation modeling with fossilized pollen records from sediment, the experts were able to create detailed predictions of the types of plants that thrived in the Amazon during the Ice Age. Previous research had largely relied on single techniques, but this study incorporated a broader range of data and methods.



Crucially, the researchers considered the gaps between areas where fossilized pollen has been found and analyzed whether animals could have moved between these habitats.&nbsp;



Computer and statistical models predicted what types of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-vegetation-database-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a> likely existed in these in-between areas, verifying the team's predictions with the plant types recorded in adjacent regions.



During the Ice Age, the Amazon’s forest cover was dramatically reduced due to the colder, drier climate. Lower levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, along with dry conditions, limited tree growth and led to more frequent wildfires, which destroyed large portions of the forest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovative-nature-of-the-research-nbsp">Innovative nature of the research&nbsp;</h2>



Study co-author Dr. Hiromitsu Sato of the Ontario Forest Research Institute highlighted the innovative nature of the team's approach.&nbsp;



“We believe our study, involving integrated modeling methods, provides the best evidence to date on the origins of the rich <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-impact-of-fire-on-amazon-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> in the Amazon,” said Dr. Sato.



“Using land surface modeling to provide crucial information on biodiversity is a new and very exciting innovation that could be used in future to investigate the history of species where there is a shortage of data.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-amazon-diversity-of-the-past">Understanding Amazon diversity of the past</h2>



Looking ahead, the researchers plan to explore how various groups of Amazonian species - such as monkeys, frogs, antbirds, butterflies, and lianas - diverged over thousands of years in response to changing environments.&nbsp;



By continuing to investigate the intricate relationship between climate, vegetation, and species evolution, the team hopes to gain a deeper understanding of the Amazon’s past - and how this knowledge can inform efforts to protect its future in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.



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How the Amazon became a biodiversity hotspot

The Amazon rainforest is a unique biodiversity hotspot, home to...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes a new map of Mars that is providing insight into the planet’s watery past. The map also reveals where future missions could safely land on Mars.&nbsp;



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

[sendtonews key="qas3EhyI0Y-2220951-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="vpljfR2VBX-2560867-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes how cavefish adapted to a sedentary lifestyle over tens of thousands of years. 



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

[sendtonews key="vpljfR2VBX-2560867-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="MHyhtebibJ-2200368-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> some of the most incredible waves in the world, as seen by Landsat satellites.



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

[sendtonews key="MHyhtebibJ-2200368-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA...

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