Once upon a time, you went to a florist for a bouquet. Now you can grab one next to the spinach, at the pharmacy counter, even by the chips at a gas station. As fresh flowers have spilled out of specialty shops and into everyday retail, their place in our lives - and who’s buying them - has changed fast.



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.caes.uga.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Georgia</a> College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences wanted to know what, exactly, is going on. 



They teamed up across horticulture and agricultural economics to look not just at what people buy, but why they buy it, how often, and what those habits reveal about the modern consumer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flowers-move-beyond-florists">Flowers move beyond florists</h2>



Drawing on a nationally representative survey of more than 8,500 people, the team found remarkable variety rather than a single archetype. Using marketing-style cluster analysis, they identified 13 distinct kinds of flower buyers.



Some are the classic date-night crowd: heavy on roses, big on Valentine’s Day. Others show up once a year for anniversaries and otherwise keep their wallets shut. 



A growing slice is buying flowers solely for themselves - home-use-only shoppers who treat stems like candles or throw pillows, a mood boost for the living room. 



And then there’s the “everything” group: people who purchase for all kinds of occasions and tend to spend the most overall.



Ask people what flowers mean and the responses span the spectrum. Word clouds from open-ended answers lit up with “beauty” and “smell,” but also “expensive” and “waste.”



Even so, buyers describe tangible upsides. Those who’d purchased flowers in the past year were more likely to report feeling better at home and at work - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/simple-and-self-guided-nature-program-quickly-improves-mood-and-reduces-stress/">improved mood</a>, less stress, higher morale. The effect was strongest among recent purchasers.



As agricultural economist Ben Campbell put it, “there’s a perceived benefit of buying flowers - whether it’s real or not. People feel they’re getting something valuable from the experience.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-covid-changed-how-we-buy-flowers">Covid changed how we buy flowers</h2>



Behind the scenes, the cut-flower supply chain is both global and intricate. Imports - especially roses from Colombia - still dominate U.S. shelves. But the domestic picture has shifted in surprising ways.



When <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-lockdowns-weakened-our-immune-systems/">COVID-19</a> hit, weddings and funerals vanished overnight. Growers plowed under fields. Florists closed their doors. 



And then, stuck at home, people started buying flowers anyway - to brighten kitchen tables and Zoom backgrounds, to mark time when weeks blurred together. Grocery stores and even convenience stores leaned into the demand.



“It became almost like therapy,” said Julie Campbell, the study’s lead author and a horticulture professor. “The habit stuck around.”



That collective turn inward sparked new growth outdoors. From 2017 to 2022, open-field flower acreage in the U.S. more than doubled. 



Much of that expansion came from small and mid-sized farms growing stems that don’t ship well - zinnias, dahlias, snapdragons - varieties that explode with color but wilt on long-haul flights.



Rather than compete with mass-produced roses from the Andes, these growers staked out a complementary niche: seasonal, local, and often more diverse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-local-farms-find-their-niche">Local farms find their niche</h2>



Today’s bouquets are often a collage of origins. One sleeve might hold Ecuadorian roses, California ranunculus, and Georgia-grown <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-wildflowers-may-be-harming-bees/">wildflowers</a>, all in the same mix.



Consumers seem comfortable with that blend, and many are learning to read seasonality the way they do with produce: peonies in late spring, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunflower-family-tree-explains-evolution-of-flower-symmetry/">sunflowers</a> in midsummer, chrysanthemums in fall.



For domestic growers, that seasonality is an advantage. It allows them to sell what travels poorly and tell a fresher story - field to vase instead of farm to table. For retailers, it’s an opportunity to meet shoppers where they already are.



The UGA study suggests that people inclined to toss a bouquet in the cart also value other small home upgrades. In other words, flowers are converging with the broader “home as haven” mindset that accelerated during the pandemic and never really retreated.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flowers-are-no-longer-just-gifts">Flowers are no longer just gifts</h2>



If there’s one throughline in the data, it’s diversity of intent. Flowers are still gifts, of course, but self-purchase is no longer niche. 



The “everything” buyers - those who grab stems for birthdays, apologies, Tuesdays, and everything in between - anchor the market, yet the once-a-year romantics and the treat-yourself crowd matter too.



That mix is why bouquets now show up in so many retail formats. A pharmacy endcap might catch the anniversary buyer; a grocery display might tempt the self-care shopper who wants tulips with their tomatoes.



It also helps explain the emotional payoffs respondents described. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flower-quality-is-a-critical-driver-of-bee-abundance/">Fresh flowers</a> are a fast, visible change in a room and an affordable luxury compared to furniture or renovations. 



That hit of beauty, scent, and novelty can feel outsize relative to the spend, which reinforces repeat purchases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-the-industry-goes-next"><a></a>Where the industry goes next</h2>



Policy and logistics will continue to shape the landscape - trade agreements, air freight costs, and climate impacts all ripple into what appears in the bucket by the checkout. But the UGA team’s work points to a few practical implications now.



Retailers can segment more intelligently, tailoring assortments and messaging to different buyer types rather than assuming a single use case. 



Growers can lean into their strengths - distinctive, local, and seasonal - without trying to displace imports that excel at year-round volume. 



And marketers can speak to well-being without overpromising: flowers won’t solve life’s problems, but they routinely make spaces feel better, and people notice.



Perhaps the biggest takeaway is the simplest: Americans are still buying flowers - and not just to hand to someone else.



Whether it’s a dozen <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-do-delicate-roses-have-such-harsh-prickles/">roses</a> flown in from Colombia or a handful of dahlias clipped from a nearby farm, fresh stems have become an everyday indulgence. 



They sit by the sink, brighten a desk, bookend the produce aisle, and remind us, in small ways, why bringing a bit of the outside in still resonates.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.ashs.org/view/journals/horttech/35/3/article-p286.xml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HortTechnology</a>.



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Why more people are buying flowers for everyday therapy

Once upon a time, you went to a florist for a bouquet. Now you can grab one next to the spinach, at the pharmacy counter, even by the chips at a gas station. As fresh flowers have spilled out of specialty shops and into everyday retail, their place in our lives - and who’s buying them - has changed fast. Researchers at the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences wanted to know what, exactly, is going on. They teamed up across horticulture and agricultural...

Scientists at the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sydney</a> have made a discovery that could revolutionize the protection of plants from browsing damage by herbivorous mammals.



The researchers have found a way to deter animals from consuming desirable plant species by simulating the aroma of plants that these animals would typically avoid.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-control-measures-nbsp">Animal control measures&nbsp;</h2>



The study demonstrates that tree seedlings near the artificial odor were substantially less likely to be consumed by herbivores, mirroring the effect of being surrounded by naturally repellent plants.&nbsp;



“This method effectively deceives the animals into sparing the plants, offering a promising alternative to lethal animal control measures which raise ethical concerns,” said lead author Patrick Finnerty, a PhD candidate from the School of Life and Environmental Sciences Behavioral Ecology and Conservation Lab.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-odor-based-deterrence-nbsp">Odor-based deterrence&nbsp;</h2>



The research, conducted in Sydney's Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, focused on the swamp wallaby as the primary herbivore. By using an unpalatable shrub, Boronia pinnata, from the citrus family and a palatable canopy species, Eucalyptus punctata, researchers could test the efficacy of their odor-based deterrence method.&nbsp;



Remarkably, the artificial Boronia pinnata solution proved just as effective as the actual plant in safeguarding eucalypt seedlings from wallaby predation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deterring-larger-herbivores-nbsp">Deterring larger herbivores&nbsp;</h2>



Finnerty's innovative approach also shows promise in deterring larger herbivores, such as African elephants, though these findings are part of his broader doctoral research and not included in the current publication. This strategy addresses the shortcomings of previous repellent methods, such as chili oil or motor oil, which animals can become accustomed to, diminishing their effectiveness over time.&nbsp;



By leveraging the natural avoidance behaviors of herbivores, the scent-based method offers a sustainable and humane solution for plant protection.



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



The implications of this research extend beyond conservation efforts to include agricultural applications, providing a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional protective measures like fencing or lethal control.&nbsp;



Study senior author Professor Clare McArthur emphasizes the global challenge posed by mammalian herbivores like deer, elephants, and wallabies, which can significantly hinder post-fire recovery, endanger plant species, and inflict substantial economic losses in forestry and agriculture.&nbsp;



“Plant browsing damage caused by mammalian herbivore populations like deer, elephants and wallabies is a growing global concern. This damage is one of the greatest limiting factors in areas of post-fire recovery and revegetation, destroying more than half the seedlings in these areas. It also threatens endangered plants and causes billions of dollars of damage in forestry and agriculture globally,” she explained.



Therefore, this innovative approach, grounded in a deep understanding of herbivore foraging behaviors and preferences, presents a novel and much-needed solution to a pressing ecological and economic issue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-browsing-damage-nbsp">Plant browsing damage&nbsp;</h2>



Plant browsing damage refers to the harm caused to plants by animals feeding on them. This type of damage can significantly affect plant health, growth, and productivity, and it's a common concern in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, and natural habitats. Here are some key points about plant browsing damage:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-causes-nbsp">Causes&nbsp;</h3>



Browsing damage is primarily caused by herbivorous mammals, such as deer, rabbits, goats, and in some regions, larger animals like moose and elk. Birds can also cause browsing damage, although their impact is often less severe.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-types-of-damage">Types of damage</h3>



The damage can range from the removal of leaves and shoots to the breaking of branches and stems. In severe cases, browsing can lead to the death of young plants or significantly stunt their growth.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effects-on-plants">Effects on plants</h3>



Beyond the immediate physical damage, browsing stress can make plants more susceptible to diseases and environmental stresses. It can also lead to changes in plant morphology (shape and structure) as plants may develop physical defenses (like thorns) or chemical defenses (like increased bitterness) to deter future browsing.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-management-and-control">Management and control</h3>



Effective management strategies are essential to minimize browsing damage, especially in areas where wildlife populations are high. These strategies may include physical barriers (like fencing), repellents, planting less palatable plant species, or controlled hunting to manage animal populations.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-impact">Ecological impact</h3>



While browsing can be detrimental in managed environments like farms and gardens, it's a natural part of many ecosystems. Herbivory helps shape plant community structure, influences biodiversity, and can even benefit plants by pruning that encourages growth.



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41559-024-02330-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</a>.



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Tricking animals with odor could save plants from browsing damage

Scientists at the University of Sydney have made a discovery...

Researchers at the <a href="https://www.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Institutes of Health</a> (NIH) have discovered rapid and significant immune system changes in individuals who switched to either a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diets-are-proven-better-for-human-and-environmental-health/">vegan</a> or a ketogenic (keto) diet. The study provides critical insights into how dietary choices can affect our body's defense mechanisms.



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



The research was conducted by experts from the NIH’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) and National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).&nbsp;



The team closely monitored the biological responses of participants as they alternated between vegan and keto diets over two-week periods, in a random order.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-multi-omics-approach-nbsp">Multi-omics approach&nbsp;</h2>



The participants, who were diverse in ethnicity, race, gender, body mass index (BMI), and age, underwent thorough analysis through blood, urine, and stool samples.&nbsp;



The study used a “multi-omics” approach, assessing biochemical, cellular, metabolic, and immune responses, along with changes in the microbiome.



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



The vegan diet, typically high in fiber and low in fat, led to notable changes in pathways related to the innate immune system, including antiviral responses.&nbsp;



This diet is known for eliminating animal products and in this study, contained approximately 10% fat and 75% carbohydrates. Interestingly, participants on the vegan diet consumed fewer calories compared to those on the keto diet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-keto-diet-nbsp">Keto diet&nbsp;</h2>



The keto diet, which is low in carbohydrates and generally high in fat, prompted significant increases in processes linked to adaptive immunity, particularly pathways associated with T and B cells.&nbsp;



With about 76% fat and 10% carbohydrates, the keto diet also impacted a broader range of proteins in the blood plasma and affected levels of proteins from various tissues, including blood, brain, and bone marrow.



Both diets produced changes in the participants' microbiomes, causing shifts in the abundance of gut bacterial species previously linked to these diets.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-metabolic-changes-nbsp">Metabolic changes&nbsp;</h2>



The vegan diet, with its higher iron content, promoted more red blood cell-linked pathways, including those involved in heme metabolism. The keto diet was associated with changes in amino acid metabolism, reflecting the higher amounts of protein consumed on this diet.



Despite the diversity of the participants, the study revealed that dietary changes consistently affect widespread and interconnected pathways in the body. The distinct metabolic and immune system changes observed highlight the profound impact that diet can have on our health.



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



The experts emphasize the need for further research to understand how these nutritional interventions specifically affect components of the immune system. They suggest that the rapid immune response to dietary changes could open new avenues for preventing diseases or complementing treatments for cancer or neurodegenerative disorders.



The study marks a significant step in understanding the complex relationship between diet, the immune system, and overall health. It demonstrates the potential of using dietary interventions as a therapeutic tool, offering hope for personalized nutrition strategies in the treatment and prevention of various diseases.



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Vegan and keto diets rapidly transform the immune system

Researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have discovered...

Global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-trees-will-not-solve-the-issue-of-climate-change/">tree-planting</a> campaigns are popular for their perceived benefits against climate change and for wildlife habitats. 



However, successful reforestation requires more than just planting trees; it demands ecological understanding, long-term planning, and follow-up. 



Researchers at <a href="https://www.ucsc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Santa Cruz</a> are educating organizations and the public about best practices for effective reforestation.



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



"As global tree-growing efforts have escalated in the past decade, copious failures and unintended consequences have prompted many reforestation best practices guidelines. The extent to which organizations have integrated these ecological and socioeconomic recommendations, however, remains uncertain," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"We reviewed websites of 99 intermediary organizations that promote and fund tree-growing projects to determine how well they report following best practices."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-improvement-and-accountability-nbsp">Need for improvement and accountability&nbsp;</h2>



Study co-author Karen Holl is a restoration ecologist and professor of Environmental Studies at UC Santa Cruz.&nbsp;



"One of the common problems is that organizations will just say, ‘We're going to put this many trees in the ground,’ but the important question is, ‘What comes afterward?’ There are many documented failures from tree-planting campaigns, so we would hope to see organizations improving their practices and taking on more accountability, including through publicly reporting data," said Professor Holl.



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



UCSC postdoctoral researcher Spencer Schubert led a study analyzing web content from nearly 100 tree-planting organizations worldwide. The team rated each organization based on their public information's adherence to best practices.&nbsp;



“We reviewed websites as well as annual reports and other linked documents to really get a broad view of the information that organizations reveal to the public,” Schubert explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-best-practices-guidelines-nbsp">Best practices guidelines&nbsp;</h2>



The study utilized 10 guidelines from Holl’s prior work, focusing on community engagement, addressing deforestation causes, avoiding harms, and long-term project management.&nbsp;



The findings showed improvements in recognizing community involvement, with 91% of organizations acknowledging its importance. However, detailed data and clarity about long-term project management are lacking.



"Overall, there are still many gaps in the details and data that we’re seeing," Schubert said, pointing to uncertainties in long-term benefits. The study urges organizations to move beyond generalities and specify implementation of best practices, including data collection and longer-term commitments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meaningful-reforestation-outcomes-nbsp">Meaningful reforestation outcomes&nbsp;</h2>



“Things are moving in the right direction with some of these organizations," Holl added, while expressing her hope for continued focus on improving practices to achieve meaningful reforestation outcomes.&nbsp;



This approach aims to maximize the positive impacts of tree-planting initiatives and prevent potential negative consequences.



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



"We advocate the importance of addressing common pitfalls that have led to previous reforestation failures and the need to follow best practices guidelines to achieve desired goals, particularly as many inexperienced organizations continue to join the reforestation movement," wrote the researchers.



"Holding the various actors in reforestation movements to a higher standard will require moving beyond narrow focus on tree planting statistics toward increasing collective consciousness among practitioners and funders about practices and standards that are most likely to lead to long-term success."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/conl.13002" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Conservation Letters</a>.



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Tree-planting campaigns fall short of successful reforestation

Global tree-planting campaigns are popular for their perceived benefits against...

Plant biologists have discovered a unique survival strategy used by a tree fern species that is exclusive to Panama. The experts found that Cyathea rojasiana repurposes its own dead leaves, transforming them into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-leaves-send-signals-to-their-roots-on-dry-days-telling-them-to-keep-digging-deeper-for-water/">root structures</a> to nourish itself.&nbsp;



The research, led by Professor James Dalling of the <a href="https://illinois.edu/">University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign</a>, redefines our understanding of plant adaptation and survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zombie-leaves-nbsp">Zombie leaves&nbsp;</h2>



The strategy involves the reanimation of dead leaf fronds of C. rojasiana. These "zombie leaves" play a critical role in the plant's survival.&nbsp;



Once the leaves die and fall to the ground, they undergo a transformation. They reverse the flow of water and nutrients, drawing nitrogen and other vital substances from the soil back into the mother plant.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-strategy-nbsp">Unique strategy&nbsp;</h2>



Professor Dalling and his team stumbled upon this surprising discovery while studying a different plant in a Panamanian forest reserve.&nbsp;



The researchers noticed something unusual about the fronds of the tree fern. Embedded firmly in the soil, these fronds had sprouted rootlets, forming a network that was actively extracting nutrients from the ground. Laboratory analyses confirmed this unique nutrient absorption method.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-repurposing-of-tissue-nbsp">Repurposing of tissue&nbsp;</h2>



What makes the discovery even more extraordinary is the deceptive appearance of the reconfigured fronds. They retain the look of decayed plant matter, which likely contributed to this phenomenon going unnoticed by generations of plant biologists.&nbsp;



This repurposing of dead tissue to feed the original plant is a first-of-its-kind finding in the plant world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-for-survival">Adapting for survival</h2>



The evolutionary origins of this unique adaptation can be traced back to the Jurassic period, from which C. rojasiana descends. Professor Dalling suggests that the adaptation is likely a response to the nutrient-poor volcanic soils of Panama.&nbsp;



“Panama is a land bridge between North and South America that coalesced 7 million years ago out of an archipelago of islands, and those islands are the result of volcanic activity in the past,” said Dalling.&nbsp;



“In one site we discovered, a layer of volcanic ash several meters deep looks like sand that you would dig up on a sandy beach. The plants that grow there are distinct from those that we find elsewhere in that forest reserve.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-searching-for-nutrients-nbsp">Searching for nutrients&nbsp;</h2>



The patchiness of the vegetation means soil nutrients also are unevenly distributed. “And so the tree ferns seem to be putting out tentacles to sample the surrounding soils,” said Dalling.&nbsp;



“They’re able to sample a greater range of nutrient environments for the same amount of investment of rootlets than if they just sent out a single rooting structure all around the fern. I think it’s all about the economics of how they use resources in a patchy environment.”



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



The tree ferns also grow very slowly. “They’re probably putting on one or two leaves a year, and so they’re adding on the order of a few centimeters of height a year,” said Professor Dalling.



Each frond represents a significant investment for the plant, which it then repurposes after the leaf's death. The slow growth rate also means that the ferns remain relatively short, with a maximum height of about two meters.&nbsp;This height allows the dead fronds to droop to the ground, facilitating their transformation into rooting structures.



Professor Dalling, who also serves as a research associate at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama, highlights this discovery as "another example of the extraordinary diversity of plant adaptations that exist in resource-poor environments."&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ecy.4248" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology</a>. 



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Tree ferns turn their dead leaves into new roots

Plant biologists have discovered a unique survival strategy used by...

Plant,Vertical,Farms,Producing,Plant,Vaccines

A recent study led by the University of Michigan dove into the world of urban agriculture, uncovering fascinating insights about its impact on the environment. 



This comprehensive study, the largest of its kind, juxtaposes the carbon footprint of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/how-to-get-started-urban-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban-grown</a> fruits and vegetables with their conventionally grown counterparts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-footprint-of-city-grown-produce">Environmental footprint of city-grown produce</h2>



The study, involving 73 urban farms and gardens across five countries, reveals a complex picture. 



On average, <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/step-into-the-future-urban-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban-grown</a> produce has a carbon footprint six times larger than conventionally grown fruits and vegetables. 



This is a significant finding, considering the growing popularity of urban agriculture worldwide. 



An estimated 20% to 30% of urban dwellers globally engage in some form of city farming, making these findings particularly relevant.



However, the study also highlights intriguing exceptions. Certain crops, like tomatoes cultivated in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-gardens-promote-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">open-air urban plots</a>, have a lower carbon intensity compared to those grown in conventional greenhouses. 



Additionally, the carbon emissions gap between conventional and urban agriculture narrows for crops typically air-freighted, such as asparagus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-agriculture-has-low-carbon-potential">Urban agriculture has low-carbon potential</h2>



<a href="https://seas.umich.edu/research/phd-profiles/jason-jake-hawes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jason Hawes</a>, a doctoral student at the University of Michigan’s <a href="https://seas.umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School for Environment and Sustainability</a> and co-lead author of the study, emphasizes the potential for urban agriculture to reduce its climate impacts. 



"The exceptions revealed by our study suggest that urban agriculture practitioners can reduce their climate impacts by cultivating crops that are typically greenhouse-grown or air-freighted, in addition to making changes in site design and management," he explains. 



This approach not only benefits the climate but also the communities and the very essence of sustainable urban living.



Urban agriculture isn't just about food production. It's a multifaceted practice that offers a myriad of social, nutritional, and localized environmental benefits. 



"Urban agriculture offers a variety of social, nutritional and place-based environmental benefits, which make it an appealing feature of future sustainable cities," Hawes said. 



"This work shines light on ways to ensure that urban agriculture benefits the climate, as well as the people and places it serves."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-contrast-urban-vs-conventional-agriculture">Carbon contrast: Urban vs. conventional agriculture</h2>



The study meticulously compared the carbon footprints of low-tech urban agriculture sites with those of conventional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-crops-have-higher-yields-in-an-urban-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crops</a>. 



This comparison involved urban farms (professionally managed for food production), individual gardens (small plots tended by a single gardener), and collective gardens (communal spaces managed by groups). 



Researchers calculated the greenhouse gas emissions associated with each site's materials and activities over its lifetime.



Their findings are telling: urban agriculture emits an average of 0.42 kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalents per serving of produce, a stark contrast to the 0.07 kg CO2e per serving from conventional methods. 



"By assessing actual inputs and outputs on urban agriculture sites, we were able to assign climate change impacts to each serving of produce,"&nbsp;notes <a href="https://seas.umich.edu/research/faculty/benjamin-goldstein" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benjamin Goldstein</a>, assistant professor at U-M's School for Environment and Sustainability and co-lead author of the study.



"This dataset reveals that urban agriculture has higher carbon emissions per serving of fruit or vegetable than conventional agriculture -- with a few exceptions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-composition-of-urban-agriculture">Composition of urban agriculture</h2>



Urban farming sites are typically characterized by three key elements: infrastructure (such as raised beds and pathways), supplies (like compost, fertilizers, and gasoline for machinery), and irrigation water. 



These components form the backbone of any urban farm but also contribute significantly to its overall carbon impact.



Goldstein highlights a critical point, saying, "Most of the climate impacts at urban farms are driven by the materials used to construct them -- the infrastructure." 



He points out that the limited operational lifespan of these farms, often just a few years or a decade, means that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-our-way-out-of-the-climate-crisis-with-farm-free-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gases</a> emitted to produce these materials are not utilized effectively. 



"These farms typically only operate for a few years or a decade, so the greenhouse gases used to produce those materials are not used effectively. Conventional agriculture, on the other hand, is very efficient and hard to compete with," Goldstein concluded.



This inefficiency contrasts sharply with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/agricultural-technologies-can-reverse-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conventional agriculture</a>, which tends to be more efficient and harder to compete with in terms of carbon footprint.



In conventional farming, practices like mono-cropping, aided by pesticides and fertilizers, lead to larger harvests and, as a result, a smaller carbon footprint per unit of produce when compared to urban farming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-making-urban-farming-carbon-efficient">Making urban farming carbon-efficient</h2>



The study outlines three best practices to enhance the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/agriculture-could-play-a-key-role-in-limiting-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a> competitiveness of low-tech urban agriculture:



Extending Infrastructure Lifetimes: Prolonging the use of urban agriculture materials and structures, such as raised beds and composting infrastructure, can significantly reduce their environmental impact per serving of food. For instance, a raised bed used for 20 years will have a quarter of the impact of one used for just five years.



Utilizing Urban Wastes: Adopting "urban symbiosis" can conserve carbon by repurposing used materials like construction debris for urban agriculture. This approach also includes using rainwater and recycled grey water for irrigation, thereby reducing the carbon footprint.



Maximizing Social Benefits: The study underscores the non-environmental advantages of urban farming, noting improvements in mental health, diet, and social networks among UA farmers and gardeners. While these benefits don't directly reduce carbon emissions, they contribute to the holistic appeal of urban agriculture, potentially making it more competitive with conventional farming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-international-collaboration-and-insights">International collaboration and insights</h2>



In summary, while urban farming currently faces challenges in terms of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-food-system-must-change-if-nations-hope-to-reduce-greenhouse-gas-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon footprint</a>, this study provides actionable insights and strategies to mitigate these impacts. 



By extending the life of infrastructure, creatively reusing urban waste, and enhancing social benefits, urban agriculture can evolve into a more sustainable and competitive alternative to conventional farming.



This expansive study was a collaborative effort led by Joshua Newell, professor and co-director of the Center for Sustainable Systems at U-M's School for Environment and Sustainability. 



The team consisted of international collaborators from universities near the urban farming sites, and farmers and gardeners in France, Germany, Poland, the United Kingdom, and the United States contributed as citizen scientists.



Their dedication to recording daily inputs and harvests throughout the 2019 season provided an invaluable dataset. 



The team's research expands our understanding of urban agriculture's environmental footprint but also guides future practices towards sustainability. 



As cities continue to grow and evolve, incorporating climate-friendly urban farming practices becomes increasingly vital for a sustainable future.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44284-023-00023-3">Nature Cities</a>.



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Urban agriculture's carbon footprint is 6x greater than normal farms

A recent study led by the University of Michigan dove...

A team of Japanese researchers has made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-talk-soil-growth/">plant</a> communication, capturing real-time footage of plants transmitting defense responses to their neighbors. 



This significant achievement, led by molecular biologist Masatsugu Toyota from <a href="https://en.saitama-u.ac.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saitama University</a>, was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-41589-9#Sec1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volatile-organic-compounds">Volatile organic compounds</h2>



The study's breakthrough lies in observing undamaged plants responding to volatile organic compounds (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-christmas-trees-produce-that-fresh-festive-scent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VOCs</a>) emitted by other plants experiencing mechanical damage or insect attacks. 



The research involved Yuri Aratani, a Ph.D. student, and Takuya Uemura, a postdoctoral researcher, as key team members.



“Plants perceive volatile organic compounds (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-can-warn-each-other-of-imminent-dangers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VOCs</a>) released by mechanically- or herbivore-damaged neighboring plants and induce various defense responses. Such <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-leaves-send-signals-to-their-roots-on-dry-days-telling-them-to-keep-digging-deeper-for-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interplant communication</a> protects plants from environmental threats,” the authors explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-plant-communication">Studying plant communication </h2>



The experimental setup included an air pump connected to a container of leaves and caterpillars and another chamber housing Arabidopsis thaliana, a common weed from the mustard family. 



The Arabidopsis plants were genetically engineered to fluoresce green upon detecting calcium ions, which act as stress messengers. 



Using a fluorescence microscope, the team could monitor the signals released by the undamaged plants after they received <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-gives-pine-trees-fresh-scent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VOCs</a> from the damaged leaves.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="y3jCxgUSpz-3322206-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-airborne-warning-messages">Airborne warning messages</h2>



This study builds on initial observations of plant communication documented in 1983, which sparked significant discussion within the scientific community.&nbsp;



"We have finally unveiled the intricate story of when, where, and how plants respond to airborne 'warning messages' from their threatened neighbors," Toyota said. 



He emphasized the crucial role of this unseen communication network in alerting neighboring plants to imminent threats in a timely manner.



In summary, Toyota's research shines a spotlight on the complex and subtle interactions within the plant kingdom, while broadening our understanding of ecological relationships and plant defense mechanisms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-plant-communication">More about plant communication</h2>



As discussed above, the world of plant communication is a realm where chemical signals, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-talk-to-plants-using-light-based-messaging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light messaging</a>, electrical impulses, and networked roots create a complex language that is crucial for plant survival and interaction. 



Let's now explore, in greater detail, the intricate ways plants communicate -- a fascinating aspect of botany that challenges our traditional understanding of plant life.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-language-of-plants">Chemical language of plants</h3>



At the heart of plant communication lies the use of chemical signals. As discussed previously in this article, plants release a variety of volatile organic compounds (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-skunky-cannabis-emissions-affect-air-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VOCs</a>) into the air. 



VOCs serve as messages to neighboring plants. They can convey information about environmental conditions, such as drought or pest attacks. 



For example, when a plant is attacked by herbivores, it emits specific VOCs that can be detected by nearby plants. 



These neighboring plants, upon receiving the signal, may then bolster their own chemical defenses in anticipation of a similar attack.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarm-signals-and-defensive-responses">Alarm signals and defensive responses</h3>



One of the most fascinating aspects of plant communication is the transmission of alarm signals. 



When a plant suffers physical damage, it releases VOCs that signal distress. 



This not only alerts <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-cells-message-each-other-using-rna-and-escort-proteins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neighboring plants</a> to potential dangers but also attracts natural predators of the pests harming the plant. 



In essence, plants can call for help, recruiting allies in their fight for survival.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-communication-through-electrical-signals">Plant communication through electrical signals</h3>



Plants also communicate through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tomato-fruit-warns-the-rest-of-the-plant-when-attacked/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electrical signals</a>, a method reminiscent of the nervous system in animals. 



When a plant is stressed or damaged, it generates electrical impulses that travel throughout its structure. 



These signals can prompt physiological changes in the plant, such as closing stomata to prevent water loss during drought conditions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wood-wide-web-underground-plant-communication-networks">Wood wide web: Underground plant communication networks</h3>



Beneath the soil, plants engage in a complex form of communication <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-talk-soil-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">through their roots</a> and associated fungal networks, often termed the "Wood Wide Web." 



This network is primarily formed by mycorrhizal fungi, which connect the roots of different plants. Through these connections, plants can share nutrients, water, and information. 



For instance, a plant experiencing nutrient deficiency can receive supplies from a neighboring plant through this underground network. 



This symbiotic relationship not only facilitates communication but also fosters a supportive plant community.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-plant-communication-in-ecosystems">Role of plant communication in ecosystems</h3>



Understanding plant communication is crucial for appreciating the dynamics of ecosystems. 



It helps explain how plant communities respond to environmental challenges and how they can be resilient in the face of disturbances like pests or climate change. 



This knowledge is invaluable for agriculture, forestry, and conservation efforts, as it can guide practices that support healthy plant communication and, by extension, ecosystem health.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-secret-language-of-the-green-world">Understanding the secret language of the green world</h3>



In summary, plant communication is a testament to the complexity and interconnectedness of life on Earth. 



By emitting chemical signals, generating electrical impulses, and forming underground networks, plants engage in a form of dialogue that is as intricate as it is essential for their survival. 



As we continue to explore and understand this hidden language, we gain not only scientific insights but also a deeper appreciation for the remarkable world of plants. 



This quiet symphony of silent whispers, echoing through leaves and roots, serves as a reminder of the sophisticated life processes that occur all around us, often unnoticed.



Video Credit: Masatsugu Toyota/ Saitama University



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Plants communicating with each other caught on video for the first time ever

A team of Japanese researchers has made a groundbreaking discovery...

A new study has revealed significant insights into the evolutionary adaptability of marine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-investigate-the-mysterious-origin-of-flowering-plants/">flowering plants</a>, commonly known as seagrasses.&nbsp;



The pioneering research was focused on the genomic analysis of three major seagrass <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/symbiotic-bacteria-provide-nutrients-to-seagrasses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a>: Neptune grass (Posidonia oceanica), Little Neptune grass (Cymodocea nodosa), and Turtlegrass (Thalassia testudinum).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crucial-ecosystems-nbsp">Crucial ecosystems&nbsp;</h2>



Seagrasses play a crucial and often overlooked role in coastal ecosystems. They provide stability against erosion, serve as vital habitats for diverse marine life, and mitigate climate change through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-is-of-fundamental-importance-to-earths-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon storage</a>. 



The alarming rate at which these vital ecosystems are disappearing, comparable to the loss of coral reefs, has spurred intense research into their conservation and restoration.



The study was conducted by an international consortium of 38 researchers led by Dr. Yves Van de Peer (<a href="https://www.ugent.be/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ghent University</a>), Dr. Jeanine Olsen (<a href="https://www.rug.nl/?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Groningen</a>), Dr. Thorsten Reusch (<a href="https://www.geomar.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel</a>), and Dr. Gabriele Procaccini (<a href="https://www.szn.it/index.php/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn of Napoli</a>).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-journey-of-seagrasses-nbsp">Evolutionary journey of seagrasses&nbsp;</h2>



The research involved a comprehensive examination of the genome structure of seagrasses, followed by a comparison of gene families and pathways linked to their unique structural and physiological adaptations to marine environments.&nbsp;



This approach contrasted the seagrasses with their freshwater counterparts, shedding light on the evolutionary journey of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-is-a-powerful-weapon-in-the-fight-against-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine plants</a>.



“Seagrasses underwent an extremely rare set of adaptations. Whereas re-adaptation to freshwater environments has occurred more than 200 times in flowering plant evolutionary history -- involving hundreds of lineages and thousands of species -- seagrasses evolved from their freshwater ancestors only three times -- involving 84 species," said Dr. Olsen.



"To do this required specialized ecological tolerance to, for example, high salinity, lower light, a wide range of temperature tolerances, underwater carbon capture for photosynthesis, different pathogen defense, structural flexibility and an underwater pollination.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seagrasses-rapidly-adapt">Seagrasses rapidly adapt</h2>



A key finding of the study is the role of genome duplication in facilitating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-meadows-can-recover-after-major-die-offs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rapid adaptation</a> to new environments. 



“Comparison of the three independent seagrass lineages, including freshwater sister lineages, revealed a shared ancient whole genome triplication at about 86 million years," said Professor Dr. Van De Peer. 



"This was quite exciting because large parts of the ocean were oxygen-free at that time and it’s also a uniting event involving the three lineages.” 



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



The research also uncovered how seagrasses have adapted through the retention and expansion of certain gene families. 



These adaptations include the development of flavonoids for UV and fungal protection, cysteine oxidases for coping with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-can-protect-against-coastal-erosion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">low oxygen environments</a>, and genes associated with circadian rhythms. 



Furthermore, the study found that “jumping genes” - transposable elements - have played a significant role in generating genetic diversity for natural selection.



"It’s clear that fine-tuning of supportive pathways has played the dominant role, rather than genes taking on major new functions," said Dr. Procaccini.



"Salt-tolerance is a good example in which a higher efficiency of multiple processes has occurred to regulate sodium, chlorine and potassium. Evolutionary changes have also provided different species with the ability to withstand <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-amounts-of-sugar-found-under-seagrass-meadows/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">different environments</a>.”



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



The research team identified several adaptations resulting from convergent evolution. 



This includes the loss of genes for traits that became redundant or detrimental in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-meadows-remove-plastic-debris-from-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine environment</a>, such as stomata for gas exchange and certain pathogen defense mechanisms. 



These findings exemplify the principle of "use it or lose it" in evolutionary biology.



“Most ecologically important functions are complex traits, involving the interaction of many genes through flexible pathways. With genomic tools now developed for key seagrasses, we can begin to experimentally test and manipulate them," explained Dr. Reusch. 



"This is especially important for restoration under <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-wasting-disease-is-fueled-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> scenarios involving many of the conditions discussed here.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-on-the-importance-of-seagrasses">More on the importance of seagrasses</h2>



As discussed above, seagrasses, often unnoticed and undervalued, play a crucial role in the health of marine ecosystems. 



These underwater plants, thriving in shallow, sheltered marine environments, are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-meadows-are-very-reliable-fishing-grounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity hotspots</a> and vital to environmental health.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unsung-heroes-of-carbon-sequestration">Unsung heroes of carbon sequestration</h3>



Seagrasses are powerful carbon sinks. They capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere at a rate much faster than tropical rainforests. 



This process, known as carbon sequestration, is pivotal in mitigating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrasses-face-an-uncertain-future-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. The carbon absorbed by seagrasses gets stored in the sediments below them, often remaining trapped for centuries. 



Thus, protecting and restoring seagrass meadows is not just beneficial; it's imperative for our fight against global warming.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-and-habitat-provision">Biodiversity and habitat provision</h3>



Seagrass meadows provide a home and breeding ground for a myriad of marine species. They serve as nurseries for numerous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-loss-leads-to-changes-in-fish-populations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish species</a>, many of which are important for commercial fishing industries. 



This rich biodiversity includes not just fish, but also crustaceans, mollusks, and even endangered species like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-restoration-could-help-save-starving-manatees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">manatees</a>, seahorses and turtles. 



The dense root and leaf systems of seagrass beds offer shelter and food, creating a vibrant, diverse ecosystem.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-quality-and-sediment-stabilization">Water quality and sediment stabilization</h3>



Seagrasses play a key role in maintaining water quality. Their leaves filter suspended particles from the water, enhancing its clarity and quality. 



This filtration process benefits both the marine organisms that live there and the humans who rely on these waters for recreation and livelihoods.



Furthermore, the complex root systems of seagrasses stabilize the seabed. They prevent erosion by anchoring the sediment, which is especially crucial in coastal areas where erosion can be a significant problem. 



This stabilization also helps to maintain clear water conditions, which is necessary for the growth of underwater life, including the seagrasses themselves.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-challenges-and-a-call-to-action">Conservation challenges and a call to action</h3>



Despite their importance, seagrasses face numerous threats. Pollution, coastal development, and destructive fishing practices, like trawling, have led to a dramatic decline in seagrass meadows globally. 



Climate change, causing rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification, further exacerbates the problem.



The conservation of seagrasses is a vital step in preserving marine biodiversity, fighting climate change, and protecting our coasts. It requires concerted efforts from governments, environmental organizations, and communities. 



Public awareness plays a key role in this endeavor. Understanding the importance of seagrasses can lead to more mindful practices regarding pollution and coastal development.



Scientific research and monitoring are essential for the effective management and restoration of these vital ecosystems. 



Restoration projects have shown promising results in several parts of the world, demonstrating that with proper care and attention, these vital ecosystems can recover.



In summary, seagrasses are absolutely fundamental to the health of our planet. They support marine life, protect coastlines, improve water quality, and fight against climate change. 



The protection and restoration of seagrass meadows should be a priority in global environmental conservation efforts. 



By understanding and valuing these vital ecosystems, we can take significant steps towards a healthier, more sustainable planet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41477-023-01608-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Plants</a>. 



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Seagrasses are the unsung heroes of oceans and marine life

A new study has revealed significant insights into the evolutionary...

Tequila, a drink synonymous with celebrations, is facing a sustainability crisis. Beyond the lime wedges and salt lies a complex ecological story involving the blue agave plant and bats, which are both under threat due to current agricultural practices.&nbsp;



A recent study conducted by the <a href="https://www.gu.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Gothenburg</a>, in collaboration with Mexican and American colleagues, sheds light on the challenges and possible solutions to this pressing issue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blue-agave-and-bats-in-peril">Blue agave and bats in peril</h2>



The core of the issue lies in the intensive cultivation of blue agave, the primary ingredient in tequila. Blue agave is losing its genetic diversity due to a widespread asexual reproduction technique adopted by farmers.&nbsp;



This technique, while effective for tequila production, prevents the plant from flowering, thereby reducing its genetic diversity and making it more susceptible to pests and climate change. Furthermore, this practice eliminates a crucial food source for bats, which rely on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sipping-on-nectar-hummingbirds-consume-a-surprising-amount-of-alcohol/">nectar</a> from agave flowers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-erosion-nbsp">Genetic erosion&nbsp;</h2>



"Genetic diversity in agricultural crops can act as a 'natural insurance' against, for example, pest infestations or changes in climate; it can also lead to agricultural improvements," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"Nonetheless, a focus on short-run productivity, a demand for product homogeneity, and other market considerations, have led to the genetic erosion of many crops, resulting in an increased risk of exposure to pathogens and fewer opportunities for crops to continuously adapt in response to changing climatic conditions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bat-friendly-program">Bat-friendly program</h2>



One beacon of hope is the "bat-friendly program," which encourages tequila producers to allow some blue agave plants to undergo sexual reproduction and flower. This initiative not only helps to maintain the genetic diversity of the agave but also supports the bats that feed on the agave nectar.&nbsp;



Producers participating in this program can label their bottles with a special hologram, potentially commanding a higher price due to the environmental benefits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-insights">Challenges and insights</h2>



Despite the merits of the bat-friendly program, its impact is limited as many agave farmers solely grow the crop for sale to distilleries, not producing tequila themselves. Recognizing this gap, the research team conducted a survey to understand what would motivate farmers to adopt more sustainable practices.&nbsp;



The findings revealed that farmers would consider allowing a portion of their agave plants to flower if there were sufficient financial incentives, such as subsidies relative to the investment costs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-sustainable-path-forward">A sustainable path forward</h2>



The study highlights the need for collaboration among various stakeholders, including the tequila industry, consumers, policymakers, and conservation groups.&nbsp;



By combining educational resources with financial incentives, there is a tangible opportunity to make sustainable practices more appealing to farmers. The goal is to strike a balance that benefits the environment, particularly the bats, while ensuring the long-term viability of the blue agave crop.



"Our research shows that, if adequately compensated, blue agave farmers are willing to participate in a program that aims to increase the genetic diversity of blue agave, while benefiting bat populations at the same time," concluded the study authors. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about blue agave</h2>



Blue agave, scientifically known as Agave tequilana, is a succulent plant native to Jalisco, Mexico, and famous for being the primary ingredient in tequila. Characterized by its spiky leaves and a rosette shape, the blue agave thrives in sandy and rocky soils in hot and arid climates. It's a slow-growing plant, usually taking between 8 to 12 years to mature.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Tequila production&nbsp;</h3>



The core of the plant, known as the "piña," is the crucial part used in tequila production. When the agave matures, its leaves are trimmed away, leaving the piña, which resembles a large pineapple. These piñas are then cooked to convert their starches into sugars, which are essential for fermentation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Agave syrup&nbsp;</h3>



Blue agave is not only vital for tequila but also for producing agave syrup, a popular natural sweetener. Unlike other agave species, blue agave is high in fructans, which are believed to offer various health benefits, including a lower glycemic index compared to common sweeteners.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cultural significance&nbsp;</h3>



In Mexican culture, agave has historical significance, being used by indigenous peoples for various purposes, including medicinal and for making fibers. Today, the blue agave landscape of Jalisco is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting its cultural importance.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1088/2515-7620/ad19f4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Research Communications</a>.



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Blue agave and bats face a sustainability crisis in Mexico 

Tequila, a drink synonymous with celebrations, is facing a sustainability...

In a landmark development with far-reaching implications, a recent study from the <a href="https://www.jic.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">John Innes Centre</a> has opened doors to innovative bioengineering possibilities for vaccine adjuvants. 



This breakthrough centers around the soapbark tree (Quillaja saponaria), a critical yet environmentally taxing source for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/medical-breakthrough-new-vaccine-may-prevent-alzheimers-disease/">vaccine</a> ingredients.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unveiling-new-potential-nbsp">Unveiling new potential&nbsp;</h2>



The key focus of the research is QS-21, a potent adjuvant derived from the bark of the Chilean soapbark tree. Adjuvants are crucial in vaccines, enhancing the body's immune response, and QS-21 is a prime example used in vaccines against shingles, malaria, and more.&nbsp;



However, sourcing QS-21 from soapbark trees raised sustainability concerns, given the environmental impact of harvesting this natural resource.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breakthrough-in-bioengineering">Breakthrough in bioengineering</h2>



The team at the John Innes Centre, using the recently published genome sequence of the soapbark tree, has successfully mapped the complex sequence of genes and enzymes required to produce QS-21.&nbsp;



In a pioneering effort, the experts replicated this chemical pathway in a tobacco plant, marking the first instance of producing QS-21 outside of the tree. This method represents a significant leap towards sustainable production.



“Our study opens unprecedented opportunities for bioengineering vaccine adjuvants. We can now investigate and improve these compounds to promote the human immune response to vaccines and produce QS-21 in a way which does not depend on extraction from the soapbark tree," said Professor Anne Osbourn.



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



The quest to replicate QS-21 in an alternative host like tobacco or yeast has been challenging, primarily due to the molecule's complex structure and the previously unknown biochemical pathway in the tree.&nbsp;



Earlier efforts by Professor Osbourn's group had identified part of this pathway, but the full sequence - particularly the acyl chain crucial for stimulating immune cells - remained elusive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advanced-gene-expression-analysis">Advanced gene expression analysis</h2>



The recent study involved identifying approximately 70 candidate genes, which were then introduced into tobacco plants. Utilizing advanced gene expression analysis techniques, along with Metabolomic and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) platforms, the researchers narrowed down to the final 20 genes and enzymes forming the QS-21 pathway.



Dr. Laetitia Martin, the first author of the study, expressed her excitement: “This is the first time QS-21 has been produced in a heterologous expression system. This means we can better understand how this molecule works and how we might address issues of scale and toxicity."



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



By enabling more sustainable production of QS-21, the study not only advances scientific knowledge but also contributes positively to global health initiatives.&nbsp;



“What is so rewarding is that this molecule is used in vaccines and by being able to make it more sustainably my project has an impact on people’s lives. It's amazing to think that something so scientifically rewarding can bring such good to society,” said Dr. Martin.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



“On a personal level this research was scientifically extremely rewarding. I am not a chemist so I could not have done this without the support of the John Innes Centre metabolomics platform and chemistry platform.”&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41589-023-01538-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Chemical Biology</a>.



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Soap bark tree discovery could revolutionize vaccine production

In a landmark development with far-reaching implications, a recent study...

In a recent exploration into the complex world of plants, researchers at the <a href="https://illinois.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign</a> delved into the ways tomato <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-capture-plant-communication-on-video/">plants</a> communicate through chemicals. 



Tomato plants, like many others, emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as a response to various environmental factors, acting as a signal for both defense and interaction with their surroundings.



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



One of the most recognizable scents of nature is the aroma of freshly cut grass, a common example of plants signaling distress. Lacking the ability to flee from harm, plants have developed a sophisticated system of chemical communication.&nbsp;



Volatile organic compounds serve multiple purposes, including defense preparation, alerting neighboring plants to dangers, attracting helpful soil microbes, and even calling in predators of pests.



Lead author Erinn Dady, a graduate student at the University of Illinois, explains this phenomenon using the example of a caterpillar munching on a leaf. The plant releases a chemical signal that essentially acts as an advertisement for the caterpillar's predators, informing them of a potential meal.



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



This study, focusing on the factors affecting VOC emissions, is crucial to understanding overall plant health. Prior research has examined the impact of various elements such as soil microbes and different tomato varieties on VOCs.&nbsp;



The new study, however, looks at the collective impact of these factors using four popular tomato varieties in central Illinois - two heirlooms (Amish Paste and Cherokee Purple) and two hybrids (Mountain Fresh and Valley Girl).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-research-was-conducted-nbsp">How the research was conducted&nbsp;</h2>



To investigate, the researchers exposed the tomato plants to different treatments including arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), caterpillars, both, or none.&nbsp;



The study of VOCs was conducted by enclosing eight-week-old tomato plants in an odor-blocking oven bag for an hour and then analyzing the air around them using gas chromatography-mass spectrophotometry.



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



Interestingly, both AMF and caterpillars, when present alone, reduced the volatile emissions across all tomato varieties. However, their combined presence had a minimal effect compared to either one individually. The study noted a concern that plants were less responsive to caterpillars when in association with AMF.



Moreover, the heirloom tomatoes emitted a greater quantity of VOCs compared to the hybrid varieties. Senior author Esther Ngumbi, an assistant professor of integrative biology, notes that while heirlooms are bred for flavor, hybrids are developed for large-scale production, potentially at the expense of the plant's defenses.



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



The research also examined plant growth, finding that plants with fungal associations exhibited higher leaf biomass and more complex root structures.&nbsp;



Surprisingly, caterpillar-treated plants showed greater growth, a response that intrigued the researchers and will be a focus of further investigation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-the-language-of-plants">Learning the language of plants</h2>



According to Ngumbi and Dady, there is still much to uncover about plant responses and the role of different microbes. "People tend to think that plants are not intelligent, but our studies have shown that they are actively responding to the environment around them using chemistry," Dady said.



Through their work, the team aims to deepen our understanding of plant chemistry, a critical language in the botanical world, and its implications for plant health and interaction with the environment.



The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10886-023-01455-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Chemical Ecology</a>. 



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Tomato plants ‘talk’ to one another to signal danger

In a recent exploration into the complex world of plants,...

Amazing,Beautiful,Nature,Deep,Green,Of,Virgin,Rain,Forest,Of

Recent research has unveiled a crucial link between tree species diversity in European forests and their resilience against storms. 



This study, conducted by the French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment (<a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INRAE</a>), marks a significant step in understanding how biodiversity impacts forest sustainability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diversity-as-a-storm-shield">Diversity as a storm shield</h2>



The INRAE research team discovered that forests with a wide variety of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-trees-use-social-distancing-to-promote-forest-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree species</a>, especially those dominated by slow-growing, high-density wood species like oaks, show greater resistance to storm damage. 



This resilience is especially critical under extreme weather conditions, which are becoming increasingly common due to climate change. 



The Mediterranean region's hot-dry climate and the cold-wet climate of northern Scandinavia were highlighted as areas where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-fungi-determine-the-gradient-of-forest-diversity-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> with higher tree diversity show remarkable endurance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-storms-and-tree-diversity">Studying storms and tree diversity</h2>



To reach these conclusions, the team employed advanced simulations, modeling the response of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-forest-biodiversity-has-massive-potential-for-carbon-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> with varying characteristics to storm damage. 



This approach allowed them to create a comprehensive picture of how different forest compositions, from the species-rich to the monocultural, respond to and recover from severe windstorms.



Europe's recent history of frequent and intense windstorms poses a growing threat to its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-species-diversity-makes-forests-more-productive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>, which play a vital role in providing habitat, storing carbon, and supplying timber. 



The findings of this study offer practical insights into how managing tree diversity can help forests adapt to mitigate the impacts of these increasing storm threats.



Dr. Julien Barrere, the lead author of the study from INRAE, emphasizes the study's implications for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-forests-with-diverse-tree-species-increases-likelihood-of-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest management</a> practices. 



He points out that while monocultures of fast-growing species like pine might be economically advantageous, they are more prone to storm damage. 



"In a context of increasing storm losses across the continent, our study therefore argues for forest management practices that promote diversity and slow-growing tree species such as oak,” he explains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modeling-forest-dynamics">Modeling forest dynamics</h2>



The research team's innovative approach involved simulating the dynamics of hundreds of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diverse-forests-can-shut-down-non-native-tree-invasions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> post-storm, using data from over 91,000 real forest plots across Europe. 



This model encompassed varying the climatic conditions, as well as the levels of tree diversity in forests. 



Dr. Barrere elaborates, “This allowed us to quantify the relationship between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-species-diversity-shaped-by-climate-change-for-21000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest composition</a> and resilience to storm disturbance, and how this relationship changes along the European climatic gradient.”



While the model provides valuable insights, Dr. Barrere cautions that fieldwork is necessary to fully validate the findings. 



He acknowledges the limitations of modeling studies, which, despite being essential for understanding long-term forest dynamics, must be complemented by empirical field studies.



In summary, this research by INRAE offers a new perspective on forest management in Europe, highlighting the importance of diversity and specific species selection in enhancing forest resilience. 



As the world braces for more frequent and severe weather events, these findings could be pivotal in shaping future forest management strategies, ensuring the longevity and health of these crucial ecosystems.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/1365-2435.14489" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Functional Ecology</a>.



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Tree diversity makes forests more resilient against storms

Recent research has unveiled a crucial link between tree species...

Tropical,Jungle,Lianas,,Exotic,Forest,Plants,,Exotic,Forest,Plants.,Woody

In the face of Earth's hottest year on record, has unveiled a disturbing trend: woody vines, known as lianas, are aggressively overtaking <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-forest-biodiversity-has-massive-potential-for-carbon-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> worldwide. 



This phenomenon, discovered in a pivotal global study spearheaded by the University of the Sunshine Coast (<a href="https://www.usc.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UniSC</a>), poses a significant threat to these ecosystems' ability to mitigate climate change by storing carbon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tipping-point-climate-and-disturbance">Tipping point: Climate and disturbance</h2>



This research encompasses a remarkable scope, spanning 44 countries across five continents. The team's comprehensive analysis has pinpointed the forests most at risk, revealing a particular vulnerability in tropical, low-elevation forests. 



Notable examples include regions in East Africa, Vietnam, Colombia, and Australia's Wet Tropics, among numerous others worldwide.



Professor Andy Marshall, from UniSC's Forest Research Institute, emphasizes the study's discovery of a "tipping point" – a critical juncture where the dominance of lianas becomes pronounced. 



This point is reached when the mean annual temperature exceeds 27.8° Celsius, coupled with rainfall less than 1,614 mm, particularly in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forest-modeling-study-reveals-new-insights-into-carbon-sequestration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> already disturbed by human activities like logging and clearing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-woody-vine-dominance">Implications of woody vine dominance</h2>



Lianas, by their very nature, choke trees and impede their growth as they climb towards the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-becoming-less-productive-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest canopy</a>. 



"Woody vines are increasingly taking over the world's forests," said Marshall. "For the first time, we have a global assessment that confirms that forest disturbance and climatic factors are major drivers of liana dominance."



These findings are crucial for the restoration of the world's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-forests-are-unexpected-heroes-of-carbon-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>. "They allow us to know where to concentrate our efforts for restoration and identify future areas of concern in a changing climate," explains Marshall.



He further highlights that environmental conditions fostering liana vines could out-compete trees and stall recovery in disturbed native forests globally.



Professor Marshall draws particular attention to Australia, where the coastal and low-elevation forests of north Queensland are most vulnerable. 



"In Australia, the coastal and low-elevation <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-forests-with-many-tree-species-are-more-effective-at-carbon-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> of north Queensland are the most vulnerable— adding to the ongoing threat of deforestation which, in Queensland, is already greater than any other developed country," he said.



"With warmer temperatures and ongoing disturbances from logging and clearing, those forests areas under threat from liana around the world are only going to increase."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-woody-vines-are-thriving-in-climate-change">Woody vines are thriving in climate change</h2>



Tracing back to his first rainforest expedition in East Africa in 1998, Professor Marshall recalls his intrigue with the vines blanketing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/protected-forests-offset-a-years-worth-of-global-fossil-fuel-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a>. 



Since then, research has escalated in scale, predominantly with local or regional focuses, leading to this global study.



This research is grounded in an "unprecedented dataset" from 651 vegetation samples representing 26,538 lianas and 82,802 trees, from 556 unique locations worldwide, derived from 83 research publications. 



The collaborative effort involved 20 co-authors from diverse research institutions across continents including Australia, South Africa, the UK, Singapore, Panama, Brazil, the USA, and China.



The study reveals that lianas are better adapted to climate change conditions, such as warmer temperatures, lower rainfall, and disturbances like fire, logging, and clearing. 



Their dominance over trees hampers the latter's recovery from disturbances, a situation that can persist for decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-sink-dilemma">Carbon sink dilemma</h2>



Forests, alongside oceans and soil, are the world's largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/boreal-and-temperate-forests-have-emerged-as-the-main-carbon-sinks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon sinks</a>. The encroachment of lianas not only contributes to forest loss and degradation but also exacerbates the threat to this vital carbon sink. 



The urgency now lies in developing sensitive, effective solutions to help trees recover from vine domination and to restore the global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-forests-are-losing-their-carbon-storage-capacity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon sink</a>.



However, Professor Marshall cautions against the full-scale clearing of lianas. He underscores the role of lianas in forest ecosystems and biodiversity -- from boosting soil fertility and carbon cycling to benefiting other plants, animals, soils, and overall ecosystem function, in both intact and disturbed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-diversity-increases-carbon-storage-in-forest-soils/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>. 



"We certainly wouldn't want this work to lead to forest managers going and cutting out all these vines out of their forests," he said. "Liana plays its part in the forest ecosystem and biodiversity by boosting soil fertility and carbon cycling, and can benefit other plants, animals, soils and overall ecosystem function, in both intact and disturbed forests."



The challenge is to manage their growth, which, under human impact, has become excessively high and unnatural.



"It is just that human impact is so great in some areas, that they are growing in very high numbers, they are not growing in a natural way," Marshall concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-woody-vines">More about woody vines</h2>



As discussed above, woody vines, known scientifically as lianas, are becoming increasingly significant in our ecosystems. 



These climbing plants, often found in tropical and subtropical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-creates-an-unclear-future-for-u-s-forests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>, have shown a remarkable ability to adapt and thrive in changing environmental conditions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptability-of-woody-vines">Adaptability of woody vines</h3>



Woody vines possess unique characteristics that enable them to flourish in diverse environments. 



They typically use trees or other vertical structures for support, allowing them to reach sunlight more efficiently than their non-climbing counterparts. 



This ability gives them a competitive edge, especially in dense forests where light is a precious resource.



The growth of woody vines has profound implications for forest ecosystems. By climbing and enveloping trees, they often hinder the trees' ability to grow and reproduce. 



This interaction can lead to reduced forest density and diversity, impacting the overall <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-carbon-buried-deep-beneath-the-forest-is-disrupted-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health</a> of the ecosystem. 



Moreover, the aggressive nature of these vines often makes them a dominant species in disturbed habitats, such as areas affected by logging or deforestation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-woody-vines-and-climate-change">Woody vines and climate change</h3>



Climate change plays a significant role in the proliferation of woody vines. These plants have shown a remarkable resilience to changes in temperature and precipitation patterns, often outcompeting other species in altered environments. 



As such, they are becoming more prevalent in regions experiencing the effects of climate change, reshaping <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secondary-forests-reconnect-fragmented-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest landscapes</a> and biodiversity.



Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. However, the increasing dominance of woody vines poses a challenge to this vital function. 



By inhibiting tree growth and survival, they can potentially reduce the capacity of forests to sequester carbon, thus exacerbating the impact of climate change.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-balanced-ecosystem-management">Need for balanced ecosystem management</h3>



In summary, woody vines are an intriguing yet challenging component of our natural world. As discussed here in depth, the rise of woody vines underscores the need for effective ecosystem management. 



While these plants are a natural part of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-in-the-treetops-canopy-soils-protect-the-forest-below/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest ecosystems</a> and contribute to biodiversity, their uncontrolled growth can lead to ecological imbalances. 



As the world grapples with climate change, understanding and addressing the rise of lianas in forests becomes an essential part of our global environmental strategy. 



The balance between forest conservation and management is delicate, yet critical, for the health of our planet.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/gcb.17140">Global Change Biology</a>.



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Woody vines strangle trees and takeover forests as temperatures get hotter

In the face of Earth's hottest year on record, has...

<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=2E0mn5mTvhQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that scientists never expected.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-waters-beneath-ancient-craters">Hidden waters beneath ancient craters</h2>



Scientists have made a startling discovery that challenges everything we thought we knew about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturn-moon-mimas-has-remarkably-young-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saturn's moon Mimas</a>. Beneath the heavily cratered surface that earned it the nickname "Death Star" lies a global ocean that formed just 5 to 15 million years ago—a remarkably young age by cosmic standards.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cassini-data-reveals-orbital-secrets">Cassini data reveals orbital secrets</h2>



The discovery, led by Dr. Valéry Lainey of the <a href="https://observatoiredeparis.psl.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Observatoire de Paris</a>, emerged from careful analysis of <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>'s Cassini spacecraft data. By studying subtle irregularities in Mimas's orbit around Saturn, researchers detected the gravitational signature of liquid water hidden 20 to 30 kilometers beneath the moon's icy shell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unlikely-ocean-world">An unlikely ocean world</h2>



At only 400 kilometers in diameter, Mimas seemed like the least likely candidate to harbor a subsurface ocean. Unlike other ocean moons such as Europa and Enceladus, which show clear surface signs of internal activity, Mimas displays no obvious hints of the liquid water beneath its ancient, crater-scarred exterior.



"Mimas is a small moon, and its heavily cratered surface gave no hint of the hidden ocean beneath," explained Dr. Nick Cooper from <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a>, a study co-author.



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



The ocean's recent formation makes Mimas a prime target for studying how oceans develop and potentially support life. This discovery adds another member to the exclusive club of ocean worlds in our solar system, each offering unique insights into the conditions necessary for habitability.



The research, published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a> journal, demonstrates how advanced orbital analysis can reveal hidden features of celestial bodies, opening new possibilities for understanding ocean formation throughout the cosmos.



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Scientists discover unexpected young ocean on Saturn's cratered moon Mimas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ 'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that...

<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...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

[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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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