Healthy eating often feels like a moving target. Advice flips, trends flare up, and people are left unsure about what actually supports the heart.



A careful look at spicy food offers a clear signal worth your attention. A new population analysis from Sichuan Province, China, tracked adults and linked frequent chili intake to lower rates of major heart and brain events.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spicy-food-and-heart-health">Spicy food and heart health</h2>



<a href="https://loop.frontiersin.org/people/706473/bio" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marialaura Bonaccio</a> of <a href="https://www.reteneuroscienze.it/en/Istituto/irccs-istituto-neurologico-mediterraneo-neuromed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IRCCS</a> Neuromed has spent years studying chili peppers and heart outcomes in Europe, and her work helps frame this topic globally. 



Her perspective complements findings from China while reminding us to keep lifestyle and culture in the mix.



The Chinese team analyzed 54,859 adults and found that compared with people who rarely ate spicy food, those who ate it 6 to 7 days per week were less likely to develop ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular diseases. 



They also saw a reduced risk of ischemic stroke, a blockage in brain blood flow, with the likelihood of these problems dropping further as spicy food consumption became more frequent.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spicy-foods-can-slow-down-eating-and-cut-calorie-intake/">Moderate spice</a> intensity tracked with a lower overall risk of cardio and cerebrovascular disease in the cohort. 



Starting regular spicy intake earlier in life also lined up with lower risk, although the effect did not extend to hemorrhagic stroke.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-food-gets-spicy">How food gets spicy</h2>



The main bioactive in chilies is <a href="https://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/capgen.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">capsaicin</a>, which is responsible for the burning sensation people feel when eating spicy foods. 



Beyond taste, capsaicin works on a special sensor in the body, found in nerves and in the lining of blood vessels. 



When this sensor is stimulated regularly, research in animals shows that it can increase the natural production of nitric oxide, a chemical that relaxes blood vessels and helps blood flow more smoothly. 



This process has also been linked to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trying-to-lower-your-blood-pressure-this-common-nutrient-can-help/">lower blood pressure</a>, especially in animals with hypertension, which is long term high blood pressure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-capsaicin-and-arteries">Capsaicin and arteries</h2>



These changes are important because they improve the overall health of the inner walls of arteries. 



Strong, flexible arteries are better able to expand and contract, which reduces the workload on the heart and lowers the chance of damage over time. 



Better vessel relaxation means the circulatory system can adjust more easily when the body needs more blood flow, such as during exercise or stress.



Capsaicin’s impact is not just about the immediate burning feeling on the tongue. Inside the body, it sets off chemical signals that affect how cells behave. 



Over time, researchers have measured changes in proteins connected to nitric oxide pathways, and these shifts line up with long term improvements in how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-blood-vessels-may-fuel-the-spread-of-cancer-cells/">blood vessels function</a>. 



This suggests that eating spicy foods regularly may provide benefits for cardiovascular health that go well beyond flavor or temporary sensation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-this-fits-with-past-evidence">How this fits with past evidence</h2>



Large-scale work in China from 2004 to 2013 linked frequent spicy eating to lower all cause mortality. 



In that <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26242395/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study,</a> participants who ate spicy food 6 or 7 days per week had a 14 percent lower risk of death than those who ate it less than once a week, with inverse associations also seen for ischemic heart disease and respiratory diseases.



A separate Italian <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31856971/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cohort</a> found that people who ate chili peppers more than four times per week had lower total and cardiovascular mortality. The association persisted even when researchers accounted for adherence to the Mediterranean diet.



Findings from the Italian study showed that chili pepper consumption appeared to offer protection for the heart even when overall eating habits differed. 



The benefit was seen both in people who followed a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mediterranean-diet-boosts-brain-power-by-altering-the-gut/">Mediterranean diet</a> and in those whose diets were less healthy, suggesting that the positive effect of chili peppers was consistent across different dietary patterns. 



Marialaura Bonaccio, who also led this study, underscored this point when presenting the results.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-spicy-food-means-in-real-life">What spicy food means in real life</h2>



None of these studies say <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mild-chili-peppers-may-be-the-anti-spice-weve-been-looking-for/">chili peppers</a> cure heart disease. They do say that in large groups of people, more frequent spicy intake is linked to fewer heart and brain problems across time.



This is observational research, so cause and effect remain open questions. Still, the consistency across settings argues that spicy eating patterns often travel with other helpful choices or may deliver direct biological benefits.



Spice strength matters too. The Chinese work reported signals at weak to moderate levels, which gels with the simple idea that daily habits beat extremes.



Whole chilies, simple sauces, and meals that use chili to season real food are sensible places to start. People with reflux, ulcers, or other conditions should adjust to tolerance and talk to a clinician if symptoms flare.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limits-and-what-comes-next">Limits and what comes next</h2>



A much larger China Kadoorie Biobank incidence <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12273639/">paper</a> followed 486,335 adults for a median of 12.1 years. 



They found lower risks of vascular disease in people who ate spicy foods one to seven days per week, with trends that held for ischemic heart disease and major coronary events. 



The association was particularly clear in younger adults and those living in rural regions.



It is also possible that people who enjoy spicy foods eat differently in other ways, or live in places where chili use reflects cultural patterns that bring other benefits or risks. 



Careful sensitivity checks, such as excluding early events, help probe these points but do not close the book on causality.



Future studies could test how foods high in capsaicin or standardized chili products influence blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood vessel health over time. 



Researchers could also examine how chili affects nitric oxide activity in people by using amounts similar to those found in everyday cooking.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cutting-through-the-noise">Cutting through the noise</h2>



Nutrition debates can feel noisy, yet some messages are steady. Frequent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-chili-during-pregnancy-may-actually-be-a-good-idea/">chili</a> use, inside a balanced pattern of eating, shows a consistent association with better heart and brain outcomes across very different populations.



People do not need to chase extreme heat or complicated protocols. A modest, regular habit built around meals you enjoy is easier to keep, and the data suggest that rhythm matters more than bragging rights.



Taste and tolerance vary, so personal comfort should lead the way. If spicy foods agree with you, using chilies to season home cooked meals looks like a choice with upside and little downside for most healthy adults.



The study is published in <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40677177/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zhonghua Liu Xing Bing Xue Za Zhi</a>.



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Eating spicy food protects heart and brain health, according to a new study

Healthy eating often feels like a moving target. Advice flips, trends flare up, and people are left unsure about what actually supports the heart. A careful look at spicy food offers a clear signal worth your attention. A new population analysis from Sichuan Province, China, tracked adults and linked frequent chili intake to lower rates of major heart and brain events. Spicy food and heart health Marialaura Bonaccio of IRCCS Neuromed has spent years studying chili peppers and heart outcomes in Europe, and her work helps frame...

Crop yields are at the heart of a pressing global issue: can we produce enough food to sustain an estimated 10 billion people by 2050?



Amid growing concerns of production stagnation, a new study has emerged, offering promising insights that bring a silver lining to an otherwise cloudy forecast.



The findings challenge the prevailing narrative of agricultural decline, instead highlighting a steady trajectory of growth over the last sixty years.



This revelation highlights the potential to address future food demands, provided we continue to innovate and adapt to evolving global challenges.



The research was conducted by scientists from the <a href="https://www.uidaho.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Idaho</a> and the World Bank.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-perspective-on-global-crop-yields">A new perspective on global crop yields</h2>



"Utilizing a comprehensive caloric-based index of production and yield for 144 crops, covering 98% of global agricultural land and food output, this paper reveals that, on an aggregate level, global yield growth - a vital indicator of agricultural productivity - has not slowed over the past six decades," wrote the study authors. 



The researchers noted that much of the growth in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increasing-plant-based-food-production-would-have-extremely-positive-impact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food production</a> over the past 60 years has been driven by technological advancements. This has led to the creation and widespread use of superior crop varieties.



In response to worrying claims of production growth leveling off, particularly in low and middle-income countries with surging populations, the authors provided a counter narrative.



"This steady growth equates to an annual increase of approximately 33 kilograms of wheat per hectare, highlighting continued productivity gains worldwide," said the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-challenges-for-food-security">Ongoing challenges for food security </h2>



However, the study is not all roses. The researchers caution that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-breaking-heat-is-threatening-wheat-and-the-global-food-supply/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global food supply</a>'s sustainability and affordability will continue to pose significant challenges for global food security.



It's essential to understand that observed slowdowns in specific crops or areas have been compensated by gains in others, reminding us that the issue is complex and multifaceted.



The concern becomes even more pertinent when considering the intensifying impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> and the increased demand for food due to population growth and income increase. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crop-yields-and-a-sustainable-food-supply">Crop yields and a sustainable food supply</h2>



Even though the overall global yield growth hasn't slowed, these factors will weigh heavily on our ability to secure a stable, affordable, and sustainable food supply for everyone.



The study matters because it offers a new perspective and brings a glimmer of hope to an otherwise grim picture.



It's a stepping stone with valuable implications for scientists and policymakers alike because it allows a more nuanced view of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-cut-agricultural-productivity-by-21-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agricultural productivity</a> across different countries and regions.



Still, the challenges are real and pressing. Therefore, it's essential to continue exploring, innovating, and implementing solutions that can ensure we sustainably feed the growing global population.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crop-diversity-and-agricultural-stability">Crop diversity and agricultural stability</h2>



The study emphasizes the role of crop diversity in maintaining global yield growth. By cultivating a wide range of crops that are adapted to varying climates and conditions, farmers worldwide have contributed to a steady increase in agricultural productivity.



This diversity acts as a buffer against localized crop failures, and ensures a stable food supply, even in the face of climate-related challenges.



Regions that adopt diverse agricultural practices often display increased resilience to external pressures, such as fluctuating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-influences-us-weather-patterns-ai-machine-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather patterns</a> and resource limitations.



This highlights the importance of continuing efforts to promote diverse agricultural systems, particularly in low and middle-income countries where populations are increasing rapidly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-crop-productivity-with-sustainability">Balancing crop productivity with sustainability</h2>



While the findings reveal sustained growth in global crop yields, they also point to a critical challenge: balancing increased productivity with sustainable practices. 



The intensive cultivation of high-yielding crops often requires significant inputs such as fertilizers, water, and energy, which raises concerns about environmental degradation and resource depletion.



Innovative agricultural technologies and practices are key to enhancing crop yields without compromising ecological balance. 



Approaches like precision agriculture, soil health monitoring, and the development of drought-resistant crop varieties are pivotal in achieving this balance. 



These strategies are essential to meeting future food demands while protecting the planet's ecosystems.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0313088" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



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Crop yields have grown steadily over the last six decades

Crop yields are at the heart of a pressing global...

In a comprehensive 30-year study of American adults, researchers found that individuals who consumed the highest ratio of plant-based protein to animal-based protein had a 19% lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and a 27% lower risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) compared to those with the lowest ratio.



The findings suggest that a plant-to-animal protein ratio of at least 1:2 is effective in preventing CVD, while an even higher ratio of 1:1.3 may be necessary to protect against CHD. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-protein-and-heart-health">Plant protein and heart health</h2>



The research is the first of its kind to investigate how the specific ratio of plant to animal protein impacts <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-fruits-and-vegetables-improve-heart-health/">heart health</a>.



Study lead author Andrea Glenn conducted the research as a postdoctoral fellow at <a href="https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health</a> and is now an assistant professor at <a href="https://www.nyu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York University</a>.



“The average American eats a 1:3 plant to animal protein ratio. Our findings suggest a ratio of at least 1:2 is much more effective in preventing CVD. For CHD prevention, a ratio of 1:1.3 or higher should come from plants,” said Glenn.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-three-decades-of-data">Three decades of data</h2>



The researchers analyzed 30 years of dietary, lifestyle, and heart health data from nearly 203,000 men and women enrolled in the Nurses’ Health Studies I and II and the Health Professionals’ Follow-up Study.&nbsp;



Participants reported their dietary intake every four years. The team calculated each participant’s total daily protein intake in grams, as well as their specific consumption of animal and plant proteins. 



During the study period, there were 16,118 documented cases of CVD, including over 10,000 CHD cases and more than 6,000 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/could-blood-type-determine-your-stroke-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stroke</a> cases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risk-reduction-with-plant-proteins">Risk reduction with plant proteins</h2>



After adjusting for participants’ health history, demographic, and lifestyle factors, the study found that a higher ratio of plant to animal protein was associated with lower risks of CVD and CHD.&nbsp;



Compared to those who consumed the lowest plant-to-animal protein ratio (~1:4.2), individuals with the highest ratio (~1:1.3) experienced a 19% reduction in CVD risk and a 27% reduction in CHD risk.&nbsp;



These benefits were even greater among participants who consumed more protein overall. Those who obtained 21% of their energy from protein and maintained a higher plant-to-animal protein ratio saw a 28% lower risk of CVD and a 36% lower risk of CHD, compared to those consuming 16% of their energy from protein.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-substituting-meat-with-plant-based-sources-nbsp">Substituting meat with plant-based sources&nbsp;</h2>



No significant associations were found between stroke risk and the protein ratio; however, substituting red and processed meats with plant-based sources like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-nuts-every-day-does-not-cause-weight-gain-but-it-does-improve-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nuts</a> was linked to a reduced risk of stroke.



The researchers explored whether there is a point where increasing plant protein intake no longer provides additional benefits or could have negative effects.&nbsp;



They found that the risk reduction for CVD begins to level off around a 1:2 ratio of plant to animal protein, but the risk of CHD continues to decrease at higher ratios.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dietary-changes-for-heart-health-nbsp">Dietary changes for heart health&nbsp;</h2>



According to the researchers, these risk reductions are likely due to replacing red and processed meats with plant protein sources, especially nuts and legumes.&nbsp;



Such dietary changes have been shown to improve cardiometabolic risk factors like blood lipid levels, blood pressure, and inflammatory biomarkers. Plant proteins are often rich in fiber, antioxidant vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, which contribute to these benefits.



“Most of us need to begin shifting our diets toward plant-based proteins,” said senior author Frank Hu, Fredrick J. Stare Professor of Nutrition and Epidemiology at Harvard Chan School.&nbsp;



“We can do so by cutting down on meat, especially red and processed meats, and eating more legumes and nuts. Such a dietary pattern is beneficial not just for human health but also the health of our planet.”



The researchers emphasized that the ratios identified are estimates, and additional studies are necessary to determine the optimal balance between plant and animal protein. Further research is also needed to understand how protein intake may affect stroke risk.



The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ajcnut.2024.09.006" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Journal of Clinical Nutrition</a>.



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Eating more plant protein lowers the risk of heart disease 

In a comprehensive 30-year study of American adults, researchers found...

Sustainability in cattle farming has taken a promising step forward. Researchers discovered that feeding a seaweed supplement to grazing beef cattle can reduce methane emissions by nearly 40%.



This study demonstrates that environmental benefits can align with cattle health and productivity.



Professor Ermias Kebreab, a researcher at the University of California (UC), Davis, led the team behind this study. Earlier findings showed that seaweed could cut methane emissions by 82% in feedlot cattle and over 50% in dairy cows.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-cattle-grazing">Understanding cattle grazing</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grazing-animals-have-an-unexpected-role-in-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cattle grazing</a> is an important part of farming around the world. It makes use of land that can’t be used for crops, turning grass into food and other useful products. 



Grazing also helps keep grasslands healthy, supports wildlife, and reduces the risk of wildfires.



 The management of grazing cattle varies significantly based on geography, climate, and available resources.



In arid regions, rotational grazing helps preserve soil quality and ensures pasture regeneration. In wetter areas, continuous grazing may be possible due to faster grass regrowth. Proper grazing techniques also minimize soil compaction and erosion, contributing to long-term land health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-circular-farming-practices">Circular farming practices </h2>



Additionally, grazing systems often integrate with other agricultural practices. For instance, cattle can graze on crop residues post-harvest, reducing waste and enriching the soil with organic matter. 



This integration supports circular farming approaches, which enhance sustainability and resource efficiency.



Despite its benefits, cattle grazing must be carefully managed to avoid overgrazing, which can deplete vegetation, increase soil erosion, and reduce water retention capacity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methane-emissions-in-cattle">Methane emissions in cattle</h2>



Livestock contribute 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Methane, primarily <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rapid-reductions-in-methane-emissions-are-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">released by cattle through burping</a>, constitutes the largest share. 



Grazing cattle, that consume more fiber from grass, produce more methane compared to feedlot cattle or dairy cows. The United States alone is supports 9 million dairy cows and over 64 million beef cattle, making the mitigation of methane production crucial.



"Beef cattle spend only about three months in feedlots and most of their lives grazing on pasture," explained Professor Kebreab.



"We need to make this seaweed additive or any feed additive more accessible to grazing cattle to ensure sustainable farming while meeting global meat demand."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-reducing-methane-emissions">Challenges in reducing methane emissions</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-a-pill-stop-cows-from-burping-methane/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lowering methane emissions</a> in grazing cattle presents unique difficulties. Unlike feedlot or dairy cows, grazing cattle roam far from ranches for extended periods, which makes daily supplementation complicated. 



However, ranchers often provide dietary supplements during winter or when grass availability declines. This study aimed to overcome these logistical barriers.



The researchers conducted a 10-week experiment on a Montana ranch, dividing 24 beef steers into two groups.



One group received the seaweed supplement in pellet form, while the other did not. Despite voluntary intake, emissions dropped by nearly 40% in the supplemented group.



Professor Kebreab noted that most previous research took place in controlled settings. Fewer than half of these methods are effective for grazing cattle. This study represents a significant step in addressing the challenges unique to pasture-based systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-seaweed-reduces-methane-in-cattle">How seaweed reduces methane in cattle</h2>



Seaweed supplements reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-have-emerged-as-major-source-of-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane emissions</a> by interfering with the gut microbes responsible for producing methane. The researchers suggest delivery mechanisms like lick blocks to make supplementation more practical for ranchers.



"This method paves the way to make a seaweed supplement easily available to grazing animals," said Professor Kebreab. 



Lick blocks could simplify the process, ensuring consistent access for cattle even in remote grazing areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-and-social-benefits">Environmental and social benefits</h2>



Pastoral farming sustains millions of people globally, often in regions most vulnerable to climate change. 



This study on reducing methane emissions in beef cattle offers a scalable solution to improve environmental sustainability while supporting livelihoods. By reducing emissions, cattle grazing could contribute positively to global efforts against climate change.



Professor Alison Van Eenennaam from <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Davis</a> highlighted related efforts in the same&nbsp;PNAS&nbsp;issue. Her article emphasizes improving livestock efficiency in low- and middle-income countries through better genetics, feeding, and health practices. 



"This approach is key to meeting global meat demand while limiting greenhouse gas emissions," said Professor Eenennaam.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seaweed-supplements-and-methane-mitigation">Seaweed supplements and methane mitigation</h2>



The research marks a significant advancement in sustainable cattle farming. It bridges the gap between practical challenges and environmental goals, ensuring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-extremes-will-boost-methane-emissions-in-the-amazon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane</a> mitigation without compromising cattle health or productivity.



Supported by Matador Ranch in Dillon, Montana, this work sets the stage for broader implementation of seaweed supplements worldwide.



Postdoctoral researchers Paulo de Méo Filho and John-Fredy Ramirez-Agudelo also contributed to the study. The findings highlight the importance of innovative, science-based approaches to combat climate change while supporting global food security.



Future research may refine supplementation methods further, making them accessible to a wider range of farming systems.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2410863121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a> (PNAS).



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Seaweed supplements reduce methane in grazing cattle

Sustainability in cattle farming has taken a promising step forward....

Have you ever wondered where your banana peel goes after you casually toss it in the trash? Turns out, it might be missing out on an exciting second life as banana peel flour, which can be transformed into a scrumptious, nutritious snack.



In a recent study, scientists discovered an intriguing possibility. They showed that by blanching, drying, and grinding banana peels into a flour, the unused part of your banana could be reborn as a delicious addition to baked goods.



And it tastes just as good, if not better than wheat-based products.



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



The results of the simple experiment were compelling. Sugar cookies made using the peel flour were taste-tested by consumers who reported that they enjoyed the products as much as they enjoyed peel-free sugar cookies.



The individual were also getting a package deal of flavors packed with a generous helping of minerals and cancer-fighting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-food-day-fighting-global-hunger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrients</a>.



When enriched with banana peels, the sugar cookies baked in the study showed higher levels of fiber, magnesium, potassium, and antioxidant compounds. 



On the flip side, too much banana peel flour did result in somewhat brown and hard cookies, probably due to the extra fiber present in the banana peels. 



However, a balance was found when flour containing 7.5 percent banana peel was used: this combination produced an appealing texture.



Plus, there's another benefit. The goods made with banana peel flour showed no signs of spoilage, even after being kept on the shelf at room temperature for three months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-banana-peel-flour-beyond-cookies">Banana peel flour beyond cookies</h2>



While this particular study focused on sugar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/larger-snack-sizes-lead-to-quicker-eating-and-bigger-bites/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cookies</a>, the findings hint at a broader potential. 



Using banana peel flour in breads, cakes, and even pasta, could be the next step. In fact, a study from last year revealed that banana peels can provide a natural food color to cakes while boosting their nutritional value.



Food writers have been using banana peels in curry dishes, while vegan bloggers have gotten creative with ideas like banana peel bacon and pulled peel "pork."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutritional-and-environmental-value">Nutritional and environmental value</h2>



Banana peel flour has more surprises in store. A <a href="https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/82432213.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2016 study</a> found that substituting up to 10 percent of wheat flour with banana peel flour enriched baked bread with greater protein, carbohydrate, and fat content.



Furthermore, it may be important to note that 40 percent of a banana's weight is in its peel. Unfortunately, we discard most of this nutritional treasure.



Interestingly, turning banana peels into flour isn't just about health and taste. It also brings forth a sustainable solution to the ever-growing problem of food waste.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-in-the-peels-of-other-fruits">Potential in the peels of other fruits</h2>



The trend of converting peels to flour isn't limited to bananas. 



The study found similar potential in the skin of other fruits, such as mangoes and oranges. Using their skins can boost a cake's antioxidant properties and improve its flavor profile. 



Moreover, did you know that orange peels can be repurposed in various ways? From adding zest to recipes to making natural cleansers, orange peels are versatile and sustainable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-banana-peels">Benefits of banana peels</h2>



As discussed, banana peels are mighty health warriors in disguise. They are rich in vitamins like B6 and B12, which improve energy levels, brain health, and red blood cell production. 



Their high potassium and magnesium content is a boon for heart health, muscle function, and blood pressure.



The peels are also full of fiber, which aids digestion, promotes a healthy gut, and prevents constipation. Their exceptional antioxidant content combats oxidative stress, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals.



Moreover, these antioxidants may also have anti-inflammatory effects and thus may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Making the most of your banana</h2>



The study was led by researchers from Aligarh Muslim University (<a href="https://www.amu.ac.in" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AMU</a>). It teaches us to consider potential uses of what we would ordinarily just throw away. 



Turning a part of your fruit that's not eaten into something beneficial like banana peel flour is a brilliant idea.



This is not just a way to keep your meals flavorful; banana peel flour also adds a healthful spin to your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smart-snacking-quality-and-timing-make-all-the-difference/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diet</a>. So the next time you peel a banana, think twice before you toss the skin away.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acsfoodscitech.2c00159">ACS Food Science &amp; Technology</a>.



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Using this banana peel ingredient in foods adds cancer-fighting nutrients

Have you ever wondered where your banana peel goes after...

Avocados have become a staple in many kitchens, showing up on toast, in smoothies, and as the star ingredient in guacamole at every gathering. In fact, many experts claim that eating one avocado each day can actually add years to your life by improving the overall quality of your diet.



Beyond their delicious taste and texture, avocados pack a punch when it comes to nutrition. They’re loaded with healthy fats, especially monounsaturated fat, which is great for your heart. 



You’ll also find plenty of vitamins like Vitamin K, Vitamin E, and several B vitamins, along with minerals such as potassium and magnesium. 



Avocados are also rich in fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.



So, what is the controversy, and how exactly can eating avocados improve your health and extend lifespan?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-the-avocado-diet">Investigating the avocado diet</h2>



Kristina Petersen, an associate professor of nutritional sciences, and Penny Kris-Etherton, a retired professor from Penn State University <a href="https://hhd.psu.edu/nutrition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Nutritional Sciences</a>, set out to explore this question. 



They led a team to investigate the potential health benefits of daily avocado consumption. Their research was recently published in the journal Current Developments in Nutrition. 



The study aimed to see if adding one avocado to a person's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-fat-diets-linked-to-unexpected-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">daily diet</a> could make a significant difference in their overall diet quality.



"Avocados are a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-foods-with-these-key-nutrients-will-dramatically-slow-brain-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrient-dense food</a>, containing a lot of fiber and other important nutrients. We wanted to see if regular intake of this food would lead to an increase in diet quality," Petersen explained. 



She noted that previous observational studies suggested that people who eat avocados tend to have higher diet quality, but they wanted to find out if there was a direct cause-and-effect relationship.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-study-was-done">How the study was done</h2>



Because only about 2% of American adults regularly eat avocados, the researchers were curious whether incorporating this fruit daily could boost diet quality across a broader population. 



They conducted phone interviews with participants before the study began and at various points throughout to assess their dietary intake over the previous 24 hours. 



They used the Healthy Eating Index to evaluate how well participants adhered to the <a href="https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dietary Guidelines for Americans</a>.



The study involved 1,008 participants divided into two groups. 



One group continued their usual diet and limited their avocado intake during the 26-week study. The other group added one avocado per day to their meals.



"We found that the participants who had an avocado per day significantly increased their adherence to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-meat-less-protein-lacks-certain-nutrients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dietary guidelines</a>," Petersen said. 



"This suggests that strategies, like eating one avocado per day, can help people follow dietary guidelines and improve the quality of their diets."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-avocado-diet-surprises">Avocado diet surprises</h2>



What surprised the researchers was how participants managed to improve their diet quality. 



"We determined that participants were using avocados as a substitute for some foods higher in refined grains and sodium," Petersen noted. 



While avocados counted toward increased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-learned-why-so-many-kids-dislike-vegetables/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetable consumption</a>, people were also swapping out less healthy options in favor of this nutrient-rich fruit.



Poor diet quality is a significant risk factor for conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and kidney disease. 



"By improving people’s adherence to dietary guidelines, we can help to reduce their risk of developing these chronic conditions and prolong healthy life expectancy," Petersen said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-next">What happens next?</h2>



Petersen has explored other food-based interventions, such as the relationship between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-pistachios-daily-proven-to-boost-eyes-vision-and-overall-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pistachios and diet quality</a>. 



She believes more research is needed to discover additional food strategies that can help people stick to dietary guidelines. 



"In studies like this one, we are able to determine food-based ways to improve diet quality, but behavioral strategies are also needed to help people adhere to dietary guidelines and reduce their risk of chronic disease," she emphasized.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-diet-avocado-s-global-impact">Beyond diet: Avocado's global impact</h2>



But there's more to the avocado story than just personal health benefits, and it's not what you might expect. 



Enter Honor May Eldridge, a food policy expert who works to promote sustainable agriculture around the world. 



In her book, The Avocado Debate, Eldridge delves into the complexities of our modern food system through the lens of the avocado.



"The avocado has come to represent so much more than just a fruit. It’s wrapped up with ideas of generational conflict, environmental chaos, and social injustice," Eldridge explained.



"Over the last century, through careful marketing, it has evolved into a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/farmers-adopt-regenerative-agriculture-better-soil-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">commodity crop</a> with a huge social media following."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dark-side-of-avocado-diets">The dark side of avocado diets</h2>



However, the book doesn't aim to vilify the avocado or its fans. Instead, it seeks to educate consumers about the often-unseen ramifications of their choices. 



"Everything we eat has an impact -- good and bad. We all just need to be more knowledgeable about those consequences so we can make more informed choices. We shouldn’t demonize the avocado," she stated.



Particularly in the last three decades, avocados have gone from being a regional crop to a global phenomenon embraced by cafes, restaurants, homes, and social media platforms everywhere. 



Eldridge traces the avocado's journey from a staple in indigenous communities to its current status, examining how colonialism and modern marketing have turned this humble fruit into a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-avocado-debate-understanding-the-impacts-of-our-food-choices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sought-after commodity</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-and-social-challenges">Environmental and social challenges</h2>



She explores the environmental and social challenges tied to avocado production today. Issues like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trillions-of-cubic-meters-of-water-is-used-to-grow-crops-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">excessive water use</a>, fertilizers, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pesticide-exposure-increases-the-risk-of-parkinsons-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pesticides</a> have significant impacts on ecosystems and local communities. 



One pressing concern is the expanding need for land, leading to widespread clearances that endanger crucial habitats and biodiversity.



Eldridge also tackles questions of equity and sustainability, highlighting connections between avocado production, land grabs, structural inequalities, and the influence of the Global North on the Global South. 



She raises important points about how large-scale export agriculture affects local communities, especially in regions grappling with climate change.



"My goal is to encourage readers to recognize the complexity of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-food-systems-are-gaining-momentum/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food system</a> and understand that no food is inherently 'good' or 'bad'," Eldridge said. "The debate needs to move beyond simplistic portrayals and embrace the intricate reality of our choices."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-avocado-diet-and-environmental-balance">Avocado, diet, and environmental balance</h2>



So, where does that leave us with our beloved avocados? 



On one hand, they can boost our diet quality and help us meet nutritional guidelines. 



On the other, their production can have significant environmental and social impacts. 



Perhaps the key is balance and awareness. By knowing more about where our food comes from and how it's produced, we can make choices that are good for us while being mindful of the bigger picture.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2475299124000052" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Developments in Nutrition</a> and <a href="https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.4324/9781003371915/avocado-debate-honor-may-eldridge" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Avocado Debate</a>.



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Eating avocado every day can add years to your life, but this fruit has enemies

Avocados have become a staple in many kitchens, showing up...

We often associate wealth with a higher level of biodiversity. This notion, referred to as the "luxury effect," seems to suggest that only affluent communities can enjoy diverse ecosystems.



However, a new study offers a more nuanced view, suggesting that all communities can work towards cultivating biodiversity, regardless of their financial status.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connection-between-biodiversity-and-wealth">Connection between biodiversity and wealth</h2>



"A positive correlation between wealth and biodiversity within cities is a commonly documented phenomenon in urban ecology that has come to be labeled as the 'luxury effect,'" wrote the study authors.



"We contend that both this language and this framing restrict our understanding of how sociopolitical power dynamics influence biodiversity within and across cities."



The researchers explained that the connection between biodiversity and wealth extends beyond just their correlation.



Madhusudan Katti, an associate professor at <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Carolina State University</a> (NC State), noted that biodiversity in cities is not a luxury - it is something we can work to nurture.



"Rather than just rely on the correlation of wealth and biodiversity, we wanted to understand the many ways that biodiversity intersects with different social pressures and systems," explained Professor Katti.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-role-of-cities">Understanding the role of cities</h2>



To unravel this relationship, the researchers started with a meticulous analysis of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/landscapes-with-a-mix-of-habitats-are-biodiversity-hotspots/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiverse landscapes</a>. The goal was to identify the common characteristics of these areas and decipher the social structures that enable them.



The team utilized a unique approach called the social-ecological framework, outlining how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-have-shaped-plant-biodiversity-for-thousands-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human actions shape nature</a> within a social context.



This framework acknowledges that societal actors play a significant role in land use and management decisions. 



"Someone decides how land will be used, whether it’s a city deciding where a park is going to go or zoning for industry," explained Professor Katti.



"Then you also have individuals in their backyards deciding what they want to do with it, whether they want a lawn, a pollinator-friendly garden, or something else.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-biodiversity-and-the-luxury-effect">Urban biodiversity and the "luxury effect"</h2>



As part of their research, the scientists introduced a new framework, the POSE approach. This model focuses on four factors - power, objectives, social/ecological context, and effort (POSE) - which together shape what is termed the "luxury effect."



For instance, homeowners with higher income may have greater control over landscape use compared to apartment dwellers. 



However, the POSE framework empowers communities with fewer resources to prioritize things within their control, such as collective organizing to boost effort.



Professor Katti is optimistic about the impact of the POSE framework. He believes that it will inspire collective action towards healthier landscapes.



The insightful research is a reminder that everyone has a part to play in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/international-day-for-biological-diversity-from-agreement-to-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nurturing biodiversity</a>.



“We want people to understand that they can influence the landscape around them even without a lot of money. This is what community groups have been doing for a long time: they organize to overcome the handicap of wealth through effort," said Professor Katti.



"Our paper is a call to action. Biodiversity is achievable, and people have the power to create it together.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-empowering-communities-with-collective-action">Empowering communities with collective action</h2>



The study reveals that biodiversity can thrive in any community when collective action and creative solutions are prioritized.



Individuals and neighborhoods can take small but impactful steps, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-forests-benefit-from-diverse-native-tree-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planting native species</a>, reducing pesticide use, or advocating for shared green spaces.



These actions, when coordinated, create a ripple effect that enhances biodiversity on a larger scale.



Collaboration within communities amplifies these efforts, demonstrating that collective action can overcome economic limitations.



By working together, people can reclaim urban spaces for nature, transforming vacant lots, rooftops, and backyards into thriving habitats that support local wildlife and enrich the quality of life for residents.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-in-urban-landscapes">Biodiversity in urban landscapes</h2>



Urban planning&nbsp;has&nbsp;a critical role in&nbsp;the&nbsp;shaping&nbsp;of&nbsp;ecosystems&nbsp;and provides&nbsp;an opportunity to&nbsp;bring biodiversity into the fabric of cities.



Simple yet effective design strategies, such as green walls, urban forests, and pollinator pathways, can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-wildlife-habitats-may-prevent-the-next-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">restore habitats</a> and reconnect fragmented ecosystems.



The POSE framework provides&nbsp;a practical approach for&nbsp;city planners and policymakers to&nbsp;evaluate&nbsp;the impact of their decisions&nbsp;on&nbsp;biodiversity.



This&nbsp;vision&nbsp;is one of&nbsp;aligning land use policies with ecological goals and engaging community stakeholders, which will help&nbsp;cities&nbsp;to&nbsp;balance development with conservation.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ecs2.70049" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecosystems</a>.



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Urban biodiversity is not a luxury - it is attainable for everyone

We often associate wealth with a higher level of biodiversity....

Climate change is no longer a future threat -- it is the reality we are now living in. The hustle and bustle of human activities has caused carbon dioxide (CO2) levels to surge in our atmosphere, triggering a notable increase in the global average surface temperature.



This isn't just an issue for scientists and environmentalists to address - climate change is something everyone needs to understand because it directly threatens our crops and food security.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crop-yields-and-climate-change">Crop yields and climate change</h2>



A recent study was carried out by a group of researchers at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in India. Driven by concerns about the impact of environmental factors on global food security, the team set out to investigate this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-defy-climate-change-through-acclimation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complex problem</a>.



The goal was to predict how climate variables influence the crop yields that feed our expanding population.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-model-to-capture-nonlinear-relationships">Model to capture nonlinear relationships </h2>



The researchers didn't just base their work on assumptions or approximations. 



Instead, they meticulously crafted a mathematical model to capture the nonlinear relationships between CO2, temperature, human population, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-plant-diversity-can-help-combat-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crop growth</a>.



Why the emphasis on "nonlinear" relationships? Because our natural world doesn't play by straight-line rules. 



Complex and often chaotic, ecological systems dance in a pattern that's more of a spiral than a straight line - another factor the researchers took into account when designing their model.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-limits-crop-growth">Climate change limits crop growth</h2>



"We've considered how the rising CO2 levels will initially boost crop growth through the 'CO2 fertilization effect,’ but once temperatures exceed a critical threshold, the heat stress will reduce yields," said A.K. Misra, one of the scientists on the project from <a href="https://www.bhu.ac.in/Site/Home/1_2_16_Main-Site" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BHU</a>.



"A non-autonomous system with seasonal variations reveals complex behaviors like periodic oscillations and chaos - and highlights the unpredictability of crop responses to rising temperatures."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-double-edged-sword-of-rising-co-2-levels">Double-edged sword of rising CO2 levels</h2>



While it's true that an abundance of CO2 can initially boost crop growth, the broader picture isn't as optimistic.



As Misra mentioned, the challenge lies in the rising temperatures that accompany the elevation in atmospheric CO2 levels.



So, while we might see a short-term win for crops, the long-term outlook is decidedly more concerning. The takeaway? We need to understand when to say "when" in terms of CO2 emissions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarm-bells-for-crop-survival">Alarm bells for crop survival</h2>



It turns out that individual crop varieties <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-happening-too-fast-for-some-species-to-adapt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">react differently</a> to these changing climatic conditions.



"Our findings reveal a critical threshold for anthropogenic CO2 emission, beyond which crop yield starts to decrease significantly. It depends on the cultivated crop varieties - different varieties exhibit varying responses, so the results may not apply uniformly across all crops," Misra explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heat-tolerant-crops-to-tackle-climate-change">Heat-tolerant crops to tackle climate change</h2>



However, it's not all doom and gloom. The researchers also unveiled a promising strategy to combat these climate-change-induced crop losses - the development of crop varieties with higher temperature tolerance.



By creating crops that can withstand warmer temperatures, farmers can better adapt to changing environmental conditions, thus protecting the crop yield and ensuring food security.



Perhaps the most shocking revelation from the study was how minute increases in temperature could have sweeping impacts on crop yields. It’s a stark reminder that the issue of climate change cannot be taken lightly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chaotic-behavior-of-crop-systems">Chaotic behavior of crop systems</h2>



"By identifying critical temperature thresholds, we get insights into when crop yields may begin to decline, which will guide policymakers in making more beneficial strategies," Misra noted. 



He further suggested that breeding or using crops with increased temperature tolerance should be considered as a strategy to maintain productivity under elevated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-destabilizing-ant-plant-relationships/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CO2 levels</a>.



Misra and his team believe that understanding the chaotic behavior of crop systems will help improve yield predictions and inform adaptive farming practices. This knowledge will be pivotal in managing seasonal and climatic variability.



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



The team plans to refine their model to include more variables like insect population sizes, water availability, soil quality, and nutrient levels, which also impact crop yields under climate change.



"Further experimental validation with real-world data will help calibrate our model more accurately, while the development of region-specific models will enable localized predictions and strategies," concluded Misra.



The study is published in <a href="https://pubs.aip.org/aip/cha/article-abstract/34/11/113134/3322281/Impact-of-elevated-carbon-dioxide-and-temperature?redirectedFrom=fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chaos: An Interdisciplinary Journal of Nonlinear Science</a>.



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Predicting the response of crops to climate change is crucial, but can we do it?

Climate change is no longer a future threat -- it...

How do you tell if a plant is doing well or poorly? Is there a way to increase agricultural productivity in our world of climate change and overpopulation? The answers to these pressing questions may be found in a tiny yet powerful plant sensor created by researchers from Japan's Tohoku University.



This is more than just a tale of innovation; it's the story of how we're transforming the way we monitor our planet's green life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-old-methods-new-problems">Old methods, new problems</h2>



The adverse impacts of climate change are not news. Harsh weather conditions such as heatwaves, intense rainfall, and prolonged droughts stress our plants and crops, reducing yields and endangering the long-term health of our farms, forests, and biodiversity.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sensors-that-detect-plant-stress-could-revolutionize-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tracking plant responses</a> has always been challenging, and while drones and aircraft offer a bird's eye view of our greenery, they capture only surface-level information.



Moreover, these high-tech solutions need constant adjustments to track plants accurately over time. On the other hand, smaller, ground-level sensors that can monitor individual plants require manual checks, which become impractical for larger fields or forests.



"The traditional methods may work well for some purposes, but they are difficult to operate and quite expensive. In order to continuously monitor small changes, we needed a new solution," said Kaori Kohzuma, a member of the research team at <a href="https://www.tohoku.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tohoku University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-step-towards-smarter-agriculture">Step towards smarter agriculture</h2>



Addressing these challenges, the researchers developed a unique sensor that can be attached directly to the underside of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-have-a-secret-breathing-strategy-in-response-to-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a> leaves. Framed in its small body is a powerful spectroscopic sensor and light source that can measure leaf color over time without blocking sunlight.



Easy to use and durable, the sensor is powered by a battery and equipped with Wi-Fi for data transfer. Thanks to its waterproof design, it can work outdoors for over a month, ensuring extended data collection.



"Smart agriculture is a huge time-saver," said Ko-ichiro Miyamoto, a researcher at Tohoku University.



"Farmers don't have time to manually check every single plant. This sensor is able to provide fine-tuned readings for what's going on in real time. Then, they can react accordingly to areas where plants are experiencing high levels of stress."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-putting-the-plant-sensor-to-test">Putting the plant sensor to test</h2>



The sensor was put through stringent tests where it had to take on a commercial spectrometer across about 90 leaves from 30 different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-diverse-crops-traps-carbon-and-boosts-soil-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant species</a>. 



In the face-off, the sensor distinguished colors accurately across seven out of its eight detectable wavelengths. It also showed similar readings to commercial chlorophyll meters at 620 nm.



An outdoor trial was conducted to test the sensor under real-world, changing conditions. Attached to birch leaves, it tracked changes in leaf color during autumn, leaf fall, and aging over a span of two weeks.



The sensor recorded a decrease in chlorophyll - often an indication of plant stress - and documented how the plant's response shifted with sunlight intensity.



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



"This affordable sensor is a promising tool for accurately monitoring plant health and stress through leaf color and light reflection data," said Kohzuma.



"Its low cost makes it possible to place multiple sensors across various locations, creating a network for simultaneous monitoring in many spots."



Indeed, the future of agriculture looks bright, and this smart sensor technology could well be the forerunner in a new wave of precision farming. 



Farmers, forest rangers, and researchers alike could benefit from the granular data provided by these sensors, and use it to ensure the health and productivity of our plant life in a challenging environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-plant-sensors">Significance of plant sensors</h2>



Smart farming is more than a buzzword; it's an essential part of our initiatives to sustain life on Earth. 



"The plant sensor can be a powerful tool in the field of agriculture and ecological study by realizing simultaneous, multi-point and remote monitoring at a low cost," noted the researchers.



As we continue to battle against climate change and overpopulation, innovative solutions like the plant sensor offer a beacon of hope for our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vaccinating-plants-could-boost-global-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green world</a>. It's time to embrace technology that will help plants thrive in a changing world.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214180424000709?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sensing and Bio-Sensing Research</a>.



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New sensor remotely tracks plant health in real time

How do you tell if a plant is doing well...

There is a fruit called the 'squirting cucumber' that fires its seeds like mini ballistic missiles. But how does it do this? Researchers seem to have solved this mystery -- a question that has baffled scientists for hundreds of years.



The results of a recent study, based on a myriad of experiments, high-speed videography, image scrutiny, and advanced mathematical modeling, are published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS).



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



The squirting cucumber, or Ecballium elaterium, derives its name from its unique method of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-seeds-go-dormant-to-avoid-harsh-conditions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seed</a> dispersal.



As the fruit ripens, it transitions into a seed-launching machine, that can shoot out seeds enveloped in a jet of mucus-like fluid.



In a minuscule span of just 30 milliseconds, the seeds are propelled at speeds of around 20 meters per second or 44 miles per hour, enabling them to land a considerable distance away (approximately 10 meters or 33 feet). 



This is equal to around 250 times the length of the fruit itself .



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-seed-dispersal">Decoding seed dispersal</h2>



Despite the fruit's intriguing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-increase-forest-recovery-by-dispersing-seeds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seed dispersal</a> method, the mechanism behind it -- as well as its impact on the plant's reproduction -- remained elusive until recently.



Scientists from the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a> and the <a href="https://www.manchester.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Manchester</a> ran a battery of tests on Ecballium specimens grown at the University of Oxford Botanic Garden.



These experiments included capturing the seed dispersal in motion using a high-speed camera, conducting indentation tests, measuring the volume of the fruit and stem before and after dispersal, and observing the fruit's changes through time-lapse photography. 



Armed with this data, the team devised mathematical models to describe and understand the internal and external mechanics at play.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fluid-distribution-in-squirting-cucumber">Fluid distribution in squirting cucumber</h2>



The team's rigorous approach resulted in the identification of key features of the plant's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-play-a-much-bigger-role-in-seed-dispersal-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seed dispersal strategy</a>. 



These involve a highly pressurized system, fluid redistribution, rapid recoil, and variable launch - that together form a sophisticated launch system.



The fluid redistribution from the fruit back into the stem, a feature thought to be unique to the squirting cucumber, was among the most significant findings.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="4NlCX5nNI6-4062310-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fine-tuning-for-successful-seed-dispersal">Fine-tuning for successful seed dispersal</h2>



The team's mathematical model helped them explore the effects of altering different parameters, and revealed that the squirting cucumber's seed projection method has been naturally fine-tuned for optimal dispersal and propagation.



For instance, making the stem thicker and stiffer led to a narrower <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/woodlice-prove-crucial-players-plant-seed-dispersal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dispersal area</a> and, therefore, a lower survival rate.



On the other hand, reducing the fluid transferred from the fruit to the stem caused the seeds to be ejected at accelerated speeds but with a nearly vertical launch angle, again resulting in reduced dispersal and survival rates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mechanisms-of-a-unique-plant">Mechanisms of a unique plant</h2>



"For centuries people have asked how and why this extraordinary plant sends its seeds into the world in such a violent way," said Dr. Chris Thorogood, Deputy Director and Head of Science at the <a href="https://obga.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxford Botanic Garden</a>.



"Now, as a team of biologists and mathematicians, we’ve finally begun to unravel this great botanical enigma." 



Dr. Derek Moulton, professor of Applied Mathematics at the Oxford <a href="https://www.maths.ox.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mathematical Institute</a>, also participated in the research.



"The first time we inspected this plant in the Botanic Garden, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-third-of-europes-plants-at-risk-due-to-decline-in-seed-dispersers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seed</a> launch was so fast that we weren’t sure that it had actually happened. It was very exciting to dig in and uncover the mechanism of this unique plant," Dr. Moulton explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-seed-dispersal">Beyond seed dispersal</h2>



According to Dr. Finn Box, a Royal Society University Research Fellow at the University of Manchester, this study has implications beyond botany.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/squirting-cucumber_Ecballium-elaterium_squirting-seeds_UOxford_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/squirting-cucumber_Ecballium-elaterium_squirting-seeds_UOxford_1s.webp" alt="A still showing the jet ejected from a squirting cucumber, which carries its seeds distances of up to 10m away from the mother plant. Credit: Dominic Vella" class="wp-image-1951606"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A still showing the jet ejected from a squirting cucumber, which carries its seeds distances of up to 10m away from the mother plant. Credit: Dominic Vella</figcaption></figure>



"This research offers potential applications in bio-inspired engineering and material science, particularly on-demand drug delivery systems, for instance microcapsules that eject nanoparticles where precise control of rapid, directional release is crucial," said Dr. Box.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-squirting-cucumber-a-part-of-history">The squirting cucumber: A part of history</h2>



Ecballium elaterium, a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, which also includes melon, pumpkin, squash, and courgette, is native to the Mediterranean region where it is commonly regarded as a weed due to its effective seed-dispersal strategy.



This plant caught the attention of ancient Greeks and Romans alike, with naturalist Pliny the Elder describing its powerful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-reveals-how-plants-use-winged-seeds-to-expand-their-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seed launch</a> centuries ago.



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



Given the squirting cucumber's extensive use as a model for understanding complex biological phenomena, conserving its natural habitats becomes imperative. This plant holds significant scientific and ecological value.



Future research could investigate the genetic underpinnings of its unique <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-play-a-much-bigger-role-in-seed-dispersal-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dispersal system</a>, linking it to other species within the Cucurbitaceae family to unravel shared evolutionary traits.



Additionally, exploring the potential for cross-disciplinary applications, from environmental management to biomimicry in engineering, could broaden our perspective on how such ecological marvels can benefit human society while preserving biodiversity.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2410420121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



Video Credit: Dominic Vella



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How the 'squirting cucumber' squirts and the trigger that makes it happen

There is a fruit called the 'squirting cucumber' that fires...

Plant reproduction is fundamental to our food systems and ecological balance, yet it remains a complex and diverse process.&nbsp;



Some plants are male or female, others are hermaphroditic, and some even change sex over their lifetime.&nbsp;



Understanding the mechanisms that determine plant sex is crucial for advancing modern agriculture.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reproductive-strategies-of-flowering-plants">Reproductive strategies of flowering plants</h2>



A study published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41477-024-01858-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Plants</a> has unveiled new perspectives on the intricate reproductive strategies of flowering plants. 



Led by researchers at the <a href="https://www.hudsonalpha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology</a> and the University of Georgia, the study was focused on the genetics of Amborella trichopoda. This unique species offers a rare glimpse into the early evolution of flowering plants. 



By producing a much-improved assembly of the Amborella genome and its sex chromosomes, the researchers have gained valuable insights into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fibonacci-spirals-an-unexpected-twist-in-plant-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant evolution</a> and reproduction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-the-amborella-genome">Evolution of the Amborella genome</h2>



Amborella trichopoda is the sole surviving member of a lineage that branched off early from all other flowering plants. Its genome provides essential information about the genetic foundations of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-plant-diversity-can-help-combat-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant diversity</a>.



Eleven years ago, an international team of researchers co-led by Jim Leebens-Mack, a professor of plant biology at the University of Georgia, completed the first Amborella genome. The results, published in <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.1241089?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D90780648708216300104417575982572668868%7CMCORGID%3D242B6472541199F70A4C98A6%2540AdobeOrg%7CTS%3D1732616953">Science</a> in 2013, have been cited over 575 times.



“The evolutionary lineage leading to Amborella diverged from all other flowering plant lineages approximately 150 million years ago, so our draft genome published in 2013 has been a foundation for comparative analyses of genes tracing back to the origin of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-of-life-created-for-flowering-plants-using-400-million-specimens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flowering plants</a> and earlier,” Leebens-Mack said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insights-into-the-evolution-of-flowers">New insights into the evolution of flowers</h2>



The new insights from the improved genome assembly are particularly exciting for HudsonAlpha Faculty Investigator Alex Harkess, who was a PhD student in Leebens-Mack's lab during the original Amborella genome project.&nbsp;



Now leading his own lab at HudsonAlpha, Harkess and his mentee, senior scientist Sarah Carey, collaborated with Leebens-Mack and HudsonAlphafFaculty investigators Jeremy Schmutz and Jane Grimwood, on the new genome analyses.



“Working on the original Amborella genome in Jim's lab was transformative because it allowed me as a first-year PhD student to be on the very edge of newly developing technologies and software that was coming out to help handle all of this massive genomic data we were creating,” Harkess reflected.&nbsp;



“This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-genome-size-impact-evolutionary-success/">genome</a> reveals so much about the evolution of flowers, but also about the evolution of my own research career and the way I, and now my entire laboratory, view reproduction through the lens of diversity.”



Carey, who was a postdoctoral fellow in the Harkess lab when the new genome assembly was completed, led much of the genome analysis, including the study of the Amborella sex chromosomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advanced-technology-and-plant-reproduction">Advanced technology and plant reproduction </h2>



Thanks to advanced sequencing and assembly technology, as well as emerging computational tools, Carey and the team at the HudsonAlpha Genome Sequencing Center were able to assemble a significantly improved Amborella genome.&nbsp;



The new, highly contiguous genome reference made it easier to search for the Amborella <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-animals-balance-their-sex-chromosomes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sex chromosomes</a>, which are Z and W chromosomes, unlike the familiar human X and Y chromosomes.



“The first Amborella genome was a mixture of short segments of DNA from different sequencing types and technologies,” Carey explained.&nbsp;



“Advancements in long-read sequencing and access to other pieces of information, like Hi-C data, allowed us to assemble larger pieces that made it easier to search for the ZW chromosomes than if it were in lots of smaller pieces.”



In addition to the improved sequencing tools, the team stayed at the forefront of new computational methods.&nbsp;



They developed a pipeline called cytogenetics-by-sequencing to more easily and cost-effectively identify and characterize sex chromosomes in plants, successfully applying it to nearly 30 dioecious plant and animal species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-mechanisms-of-sex-determination">The mechanisms of sex determination</h2>



Through their analysis of the Amborella sex chromosomes, the researchers discovered intriguing aspects of the plant's sex-determination system.&nbsp;



Notably, the Z and W chromosomes are relatively young, having emerged more than 100 million years after Amborella diverged from other flowering plant lineages.



In many sex-determination systems, such as the human Y chromosome, the sex chromosomes stop exchanging genetic material with their partner chromosome - a phenomenon known as recombination suppression.&nbsp;



This allows the two sex chromosomes to diverge over time due to different rearrangements, deletions, and insertions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genes-associated-with-flower-evolution">Genes associated with flower evolution</h2>



While the team found evidence of suppressed recombination in Amborella, the Z and W chromosomes appear very similar, making their assembly more challenging.



“The cytogenetics-by-sequencing pipeline helped us to identify a difficult border on the Amborella sex chromosomes: where they no longer recombine,” Carey noted.&nbsp;



“This is an important task because within this region of non-recombination are expected to be the carpel and stamen sterility genes associated with the evolution of separate female and male plants.”



By carefully analyzing the sex chromosomes, Carey and the team identified two genes hypothesized to be responsible for sex determination in Amborella.



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



“The big picture takeaway from this study is that we're learning another exception for how you can maintain separate sexes in plants,” Harkess said.&nbsp;



“That gives us another tool in our toolkit for engineering new ways to do plant breeding, creating separate sexes, preventing plants from self-pollinating, and enforcing outcrossing in a way that is controllable and predictable.”



The new Amborella genome project was part of the <a href="https://jgi.doe.gov/csp-2018-leebens-mack-open-green-genomes-initiative/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Open Green Genomes Initiative</a>, a Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute Community Science Program.



“The Open Green Genomes initiative is filling phylogenetic gaps in the availability of reference-quality genomes for land plants,” said Leebens-Mack, lead principal investigator for the initiative.&nbsp;



“Our haplotype-resolved chromosomal assembly of the Amborella genome has enabled us to better understand aspects of the ancestral angiosperm genome and the derived characteristics of Amborella's sex chromosomes."



This research not only advances our understanding of plant reproduction but also offers practical applications for agriculture and plant breeding.&nbsp;



By unraveling the genetic mechanisms behind sex determination in plants, scientists can develop new strategies to improve crop yields, enhance biodiversity, and ensure <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vaccinating-plants-could-boost-global-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food security</a>.



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A new window into the early evolution of flowering plants

Plant reproduction is fundamental to our food systems and ecological...

Ethiopian wolves, which are primarily carnivorous, have been observed feeding on the Ethiopian red hot poker flower - an unusual and fascinating behavior.



Furthermore, careful observations have revealed that the wolves are not only feeding on the nectar of these flowers but are also inadvertently playing a pivotal role in the pollination process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollination-by-ethiopian-wolves">Pollination by Ethiopian wolves </h2>



As the wolves feed, their muzzles become generously dusted with pollen, allowing them to transport the pollen from one flower to another as they continue to feed.



This remarkable behavior is possibly the first observed instance of plant-pollinator interaction that involves a large predator.



It’s a rarity to spot a primarily meat-eating predator indulging in nectar; this behavior challenges common perceptions and opens up exciting new avenues for research.



Dr. Sandra Lai is a senior scientist from the University of Oxford and lead author of the study.



"These findings highlight just how much we still have to learn about one of the world's most-threatened <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/assessments-of-large-african-carnivores-urgently-needed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carnivores</a>. It also demonstrates the complexity of interactions between different species living on the beautiful Roof of Africa. This extremely unique and biodiverse ecosystem remains under threat from habitat loss and fragmentation," noted Dr. Lai.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unusual-source-of-energy">Unusual source of energy</h2>



Professor Claudio Sillero, the director of the Ethiopian Wolf Conservation Programme (EWCP) and a distinguished faculty member from the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a>, was the first person to observe this behavior.



"I first became aware of the nectar of the Ethiopian red hot poker when I saw children of shepherds in the Bale Mountains licking the flowers. In no time, I had a taste of it myself - the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sipping-on-nectar-hummingbirds-consume-a-surprising-amount-of-alcohol/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nectar</a> was pleasantly sweet," said Professor Sillero.



"When I later saw the wolves doing the same, I knew they were enjoying themselves, tapping into this unusual source of energy. I am chuffed that we have now reported this behaviour as being commonplace among Ethiopian wolves and explored its ecological significance."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ethiopian-wolves-guardians-of-the-highlands">Ethiopian wolves: Guardians of the highlands</h2>



Ethiopia's&nbsp;endangered&nbsp;wolf,&nbsp;or&nbsp;"Roof of Africa's fox," is one of the world's most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-is-tracking-endangered-animal-habitats-from-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endangered</a> carnivores.



The species is&nbsp;only&nbsp;found on&nbsp;Ethiopia's&nbsp;high-altitude grasslands&nbsp;where it is an&nbsp;essential part of this fragile Afroalpine ecosystem.



With fewer than 500 individuals left in the wild, their survival speaks to the challenges and beauty of this unique landscape.



Ethiopian&nbsp;wolves live&nbsp;in&nbsp;approximately&nbsp;99 packs&nbsp;that&nbsp;are&nbsp;to be found in six isolated, highland regions. They are entirely dependent&nbsp;on&nbsp;the&nbsp;environment&nbsp;in which they&nbsp;live. The threats&nbsp;from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hippopotamus-population-hit-hard-by-habitat-destruction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat&nbsp;destruction</a>&nbsp;and human activity&nbsp;are perpetual pressures on the remaining individuals.



Even though&nbsp;their&nbsp;count is&nbsp;low, these wolves play an&nbsp;important&nbsp;role in&nbsp;being&nbsp;the top predator of the ecosystem and controlling&nbsp;rodent&nbsp;populations,&nbsp;which form the majority of their prey.



These&nbsp;are&nbsp;no&nbsp;ordinary&nbsp;wolves;&nbsp;they are guardians of a habitat that is&nbsp;home&nbsp;to&nbsp;countless species, including many other plants and pollinators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ethiopian-wolf-conservation-program">Ethiopian Wolf Conservation Program</h2>



Initiated in 1995, the Ethiopian Wolf Conservation Program (EWCP) has made sustained efforts to protect these unique <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wolves-may-not-be-heroes-but-theyre-not-villains-either/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wolves</a> and their precious habitat from extinction and threats.



It is a collaborative initiative between the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit (WildCRU) at the University of Oxford, the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA), and Dinkenesh Ethiopia. 



This iniative holds the distinction of being the longest-running conservation program in Ethiopia, and has worked relentlessly to safeguard the future of natural habitats for the benefit of wildlife and the people who co-habit these highlands.



Being witness to such remarkable behavior from these wolves reinforces the importance of our conservation efforts and renews our commitment to preserving these magnificent creatures and their habitat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wolves-and-flowers-a-symbiotic-connection">Wolves and flowers: A symbiotic connection</h2>



The unexpected interaction between Ethiopian wolves and the Ethiopian red hot poker flower highlights the intricate relationships that can exist between species in delicate ecosystems.



While the wolves gain a supplementary energy source through the flower’s nectar, the plants benefit from a reliable pollinator that helps ensure their successful reproduction.



This symbiotic relationship demonstrates how even apex predators can contribute to the health of their environment in surprising ways.



Such interactions also emphasize the interconnectedness of life in the Ethiopian highlands where every species, from the smallest plant to the largest predator, plays a vital role in sustaining the ecosystem.



Recognizing and studying these complex dynamics could open doors to more innovative and inclusive conservation strategies that prioritize not just individual species but the broader web of life in ecosystems.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ecy.4470" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology</a>.



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First wolf species discovered that eats fruit and pollinates flowers

Ethiopian wolves, which are primarily carnivorous, have been observed feeding...

Few sights can be as awe-inspiring as New Zealand's legendary "walking tree," a towering ancient giant that stands like a sentinel from a fantasy world.



This extraordinary tree remains unmatched, as though it has stepped right out of the imagination of J.R.R. Tolkien, author of The Lord of the Rings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-champion-of-the-forest">Champion of the forest</h2>



The "walking tree" is no ordinary one. It recently won the title of New Zealand's Tree of the Year with ease, claiming 42% of the public vote and leaving five other finalists behind. The contest was organized by the <a href="https://www.nzarb.org.nz" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Zealand Arboricultural Association</a>.



The tree that seems to be on a stroll is not just unique in its appearance; it carries a rich legacy that stretches back centuries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-journey-of-the-walking-tree">Journey of the walking tree</h2>



The tree - a northern rātā (Metrosideros robusta) - has its roots on the west coast of South Island, near Karamea.



Reaching heights of up to 105 feet (equal to a seven-story building), it exists as a remarkable symbol of nature's ingenuity and endurance. The tree stands by a cemetery, the lone survivor of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-oldest-forest-discovered-close-to-new-york-city/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest</a> that was cleared about 150 years ago.



Brad Cadwallader, organizer of the Tree of the Year competition, told Radio New Zealand that during the voting, the walking tree "strode out into the lead right from the very start."



"The farming family back then clearly thought it was special because they left it," noted Cadwallader.



This tree has been described as an "exceptional feature" and a "prime example of the remarkable trees that we, as New Zealanders, are fortunate to experience," said NZ Arb president Richie Hill in a statement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-tale-of-growth-and-survival">A tale of growth and survival</h2>



Northern rātā trees are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epiphytes-are-increasingly-threatened-by-forest-disturbances/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">epiphytes</a>, a type of tree that starts growing on the surface of a host tree before growing aerial roots that reach to the ground.



This walking tree likely lived, initially, high up in the canopy of its host, surviving on air and rainwater before it finally grounded itself.



Its unusual root layout is probably due to how it grew around its host tree, which probably died off centuries ago.



“That <a href="https://www.earth.com/search-results/?search=host%20tree&amp;start=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">host tree</a> has now gone," said Cadwallader. "Maybe the tree was either very, very big, or there may have been another tree that fell and lent against the host tree, and that's why the roots have split near the ground and given it that walking appearance.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plight-of-the-northern-rata">Plight of the northern rātā</h2>



Unfortunately, the majestic northern rātā is under significant threat. Once common in New Zealand's forests, these trees are now listed as nationally vulnerable.



Multiple factors, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-deforestation-crisis-how-can-we-stop-massive-forest-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deforestation</a> and the invasive common brushtail possums, which wreak havoc by devouring the leaves and gnawing at the roots, pose significant threats.



The trees face danger from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scrub-mint-almost-extinct-lived-earth-millions-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hybridization</a> with the closely related pōhutukawa trees. They are also susceptible to myrtle rust, a pathogenic fungus that is native to South America but was detected in New Zealand for the first time in 2017.



As we appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of the "walking tree," it’s crucial to take note of the environmental challenges these giants face. Although the trees are evidence of nature's resilience, they also serve as a stark reminder of our responsibility to protect and preserve them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-and-ecological-legacy-of-the-walking-tree">Cultural and ecological legacy of the walking tree</h2>



The walking tree is more than just a botanical marvel; it serves as a living emblem of New Zealand's deep connection to its natural world.



For the indigenous Māori people, trees like the northern rātā are taonga, or treasures, woven into cultural myths, rituals, and traditions.



The rātā, with its crimson flowers, is often associated with strength, endurance, and renewal - qualities that are certainly epitomized by this lone survivor near Karamea.



Ecologically, the northern rātā plays a critical role in its environment. Its towering canopy provides shelter and sustenance for native birds like the tūī and kererū, while its roots stabilize the soil and prevent erosion.



The walking tree, standing alone and surrounded by cleared land, reminds us of what has been lost - and what still needs to be preserved.



As New Zealanders rally around this extraordinary tree, it becomes a symbol of hope and a call to action for conservation efforts. 



Protecting such iconic species ensures that future generations will not only learn about them in stories but also experience their majesty firsthand.



Image Credit: Gareth Andrews



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New Zealand’s 'walking tree': The final remains of a lost forest

Few sights can be as awe-inspiring as New Zealand's legendary...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



-----



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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







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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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