Most of us have heard a parent or grandparent say, “Time goes by faster every year,” while shaking their head at how quickly July 4 seems to roll around. 



When you’re twelve, however, the brain has a different perception of time - the wait for summer vacation feels endless, and a single school day can feel as slow as a traffic jam in August heat.



That gap between the child’s long afternoon and the adult’s lightning-fast month isn’t just storytelling, it’s how our brain's perception of time changes, altering the way it measures all of the moments that make up our lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-first-vs-fresh-experiences">First vs. fresh experiences</h2>



Children cram their days with firsts: a first dive into the pool, a first try at long division, a first sleepover away from home.



These fresh experiences swarm the brain with new images to file away, stretching the subjective length of a single afternoon.



Adults, by contrast, tend to replay <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-heat-impacts-our-daily-routines-and-transportation/">familiar routines</a>. With fewer novel snapshots to store, the days collapse into something closer to a highlight reel than a feature film.



According to psychologist Marc Wittmann at the Institute for Frontier Areas of Psychology and Mental Health <a href="https://igpp.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(IGPP</a>), the feeling that time accelerates is tightly linked to how much new material our brains record each day.



He points out that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/memory-clutter-speeds-up-aging-in-the-brain/">memory</a> and time perception sit on the same neural bench; when one slows, the other shrinks. "Newness" holds the key to this phenomenon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-brain-and-time-perception">Human brain and time perception</h2>



Whenever a brain encounters something it has never processed before, a quick surge of attention flags the event as worth keeping. The more flags raised, the thicker the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-brains-use-storage-trick-to-keep-your-memories-in-sequential-order/">memory log</a> becomes, and the longer that span later feels.



Kids, still green to nearly everything, throw flags left and right. A lunchroom joke, a new word in science class, or a game of tag - each registers as its own small chapter.



Adults often glide through copy-and-paste days that differ only by the date on the calendar. With fewer chapters recorded, the book of any given week reads as a short story.



Research using immersive virtual reality in 2024 showed that older volunteers underestimated simple time intervals by roughly 15 percent, highlighting how novelty <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S096800042300302X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharpens the inner clock</a>.



Routine doesn’t just compress the past; it also drains the present.



Studies tracking holiday seasons in several countries found that people who stuck to predictable daily rhythms felt that Christmas or Ramadan arrived sooner every year, while those who sprinkled in new activities reported a slower march toward the festivities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-processing-speed-linked-with-time">Brain processing speed linked with time</h2>



Every sensation has to travel from eye or ear to cortex. In youngsters, those <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/speech-pattern-wfd-that-is-a-clear-indication-a-person-is-in-cognitive-decline/">neural highways</a> are short and well-paved. As bodies grow, the routes lengthen, and the conduction speed though still quick can’t match its earlier zip.



Add natural age-related slowing of signal processing and the brain starts sampling the world less often each second.



Fewer samples mean fewer “ticks” on the subjective stopwatch, so a morning meeting seems to vanish faster for a forty-year-old than for a fourth grader.



This sampling <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-link-pupil-dilation-to-brains-working-memory-levels/">shows up in the eyes</a>. Our eyes jerk from point to point in rapid saccades, pausing in brief fixations while the brain grabs a visual frame.



Young, rested eyes squeeze in more fixations per minute. Older or fatigued eyes lag, offering the brain fewer still frames to stitch together. With a thinner film strip, the projection of the day speeds along.



Scientists studying eye movements liken perception to a flipbook. Each fixation is a page; flip them fast enough and you see smooth action.



When fixations slow, the flipbook loses pages. Motion still appears, but the storyline gets choppy, and, in recall, it shortens.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-and-alertness">Sleep and alertness</h2>



A single night of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-can-boost-memory-in-a-surprising-way/">good sleep</a> can pull the brake on runaway days. When neurons are well-rested, they fire faster, notice more, and form clearer memories.



Athletes know the flip side: stepping onto the field after too little shut-eye makes the whole match blur. The plays happen, but the mind records only a highlight or two before the final whistle.



Students grinding through an all-nighter meet the same fate - an exam that seems to finish moments after it starts.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-is-the-best-treatment-for-excessive-daytime-sleepiness/">Chronic fatigue</a> magnifies the effect. Continually short-changing rest lowers baseline alertness, trimming snapshots day after day.



Over months, life can feel like it’s slipping through the cracks, not because the clock sped up but because the recorder slowed down.



<a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/dopamine-the-pathway-to-pleasure" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dopamine</a>, a neurotransmitter tied to motivation and time estimation, also dips with sleep debt, further warping the <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1364166/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sense of duration</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-media-and-lost-time-perception">Social media and lost time perception</h2>



Endless feeds promise variety, yet most algorithms serve look-alike posts. Swipe through video after video of the same dance trend, and the brain barely registers a change.



Hours evaporate while the memory log remains nearly blank. Compound that with the blue-light-induced bedtime delay, and you have a double punch: fewer snapshots captured and fewer hours slept.



Cutting back on passive scrolling or swapping it for an activity with genuine novelty - trying a new recipe, learning a chord on guitar - feeds the brain more distinct moments. Those moments stretch subjective time, turning a blur of an evening into something that feels full.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-with-age-comes-responsibility">With age comes responsibility</h2>



Beyond slower processing, adults juggle long lists of responsibilities. Focus narrows to tasks at hand - emails, errands, budgets - scanning less of the environment for new input. Novelty drops, and subjective days shorten.



<a href="https://www.tiaa.org/public/institute/publication/2023/young-adults-their-attitudes-and-outlook-toward-retirement-and-the-future" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">A 2023 survey</a> comparing young adults with retirees found that the older group reported the year as “rushing by” nearly twice as often, linking the feeling to the predictability of daily routines rather than to health issues.



Even so, not every senior feels the rush. Researchers tracking so-called “<a href="https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/4-habits-super-agers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">super-agers</a>” note that those who keep learning new skills and staying socially engaged maintain sharper senses of time, along with stronger memory performance. Variety keeps the brain’s camera clicking.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-use-your-brain-to-slow-time-perception">Use your brain to slow time perception</h2>



Here's the good news - the tools to lengthen your days fit into ordinary life. Go to bed on a schedule that honors the seven-to-nine-hour rule.



Plan at least one activity each week that forces you out of autopilot: a different jogging route, a museum you’ve never visited, a new language app.



While doing it, pay close attention to sights, sounds, and textures. Engagement packs extra snapshots into the mental album.



Stay curious daily. Swap a lunchtime scroll for a short walk and notice five things you’ve never clocked before - a mural, a bird call, the scent of a bakery vent.



Those micro-discoveries add pages to the flipbook, expanding the subjective afternoon. Over time, the habit can "thicken" the memory book that tells the story of a year, making December feel like it belongs twelve full months away, right where the calendar says it should be.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/european-review/article/why-the-days-seem-shorter-as-we-get-older/2CB8EC9B0B30537230C7442B826E42F1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Review</a>.



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Scientists explain why time seems to move faster and 'fly by' as we age

Most of us have heard a parent or grandparent say, “Time goes by faster every year,” while shaking their head at how quickly July 4 seems to roll around. When you’re twelve, however, the brain has a different perception of time - the wait for summer vacation feels endless, and a single school day can feel as slow as a traffic jam in August heat. That gap between the child’s long afternoon and the adult’s lightning-fast month isn’t just storytelling, it’s how our brain's perception of time...

The,Beast

The volcano eruption at Mount Tambora in 1815, which is in present-day Indonesia, brought with it a climate chill so severe that it ruined harvests and took countless lives. Ash filled the sky, sunlight faded, and global temperatures plunged for months on end.



Today, experts say a large volcanic explosion of similar, or even bigger size, might strike again. This time, because we live in a warmer world, the global aftermath will likely be much worse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcano-eruptions-in-modern-times">Volcano eruptions in modern times</h2>



In 1816, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-cooling-not-warming-caused-a-major-mass-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intense cold</a> created what some called a <a href="https://www.masshist.org/beehiveblog/2016/11/1815-the-year-without-a-summer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">year without a summer</a>. Crops withered, people starved, and entire communities faced desperate conditions. That moment in history stands out because it reveals how far-reaching a single event can be. 



Modern civilization seems stronger, but the planet’s population has grown to more than eight billion, and climate change has warmed the Earth. We are no longer dealing with the same environment that <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Tambora" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mount Tambora</a> affected two centuries ago. “The question is not if, but when. The next massive eruption will cause climate chaos, and humanity does not have any plan,” said <a href="https://www.unige.ch/sciences/terre/en/people/dst/professors/markus-stoffel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Markus Stoffel</a>, a climate professor at the <a href="https://www.unige.ch/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Geneva</a>, who also <a href="https://archive-ouverte.unige.ch/unige:167000" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">notes</a> that catastrophic events may be more intense in a warmer world. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-volcano-eruptions-cool-the-planet">How volcano eruptions cool the planet</h2>



Large volcanic explosions have a way of throwing out <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/programs/VHP/volcanoes-can-affect-climate" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">huge amounts</a> of debris, including rock fragments, ash, and various gases. 



Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) has the biggest effect on climate cooling, as it travels high into the stratosphere and creates aerosol particles that scatter sunlight. 



Temperature drops can linger for years. As the planet warms, there is also a concern that <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-023-01884-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">faster</a> atmospheric circulation might spread these particles more widely. 



<a href="https://cplb.rutgers.edu/people/alan-robock" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alan Robock</a>, a climate professor at <a href="https://www.rutgers.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rutgers University</a>, believes that shifting wind patterns and changes in ocean currents mean these eruptions may trigger greater temperature swings. 



“As the monsoon in the summer happens because the land warms faster than the ocean,” Robock said, "a massive eruption can tip that balance and <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212094722000688" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disrupt</a> the rains that feed millions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connections-to-past-volcano-eruptions">Connections to past volcano eruptions</h2>



Mount <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/1510/global-effects-of-mount-pinatubo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pinatubo</a> erupted in the Philippines in 1991, propelling an enormous cloud of sulfur dioxide into the sky. 



Scientists determined that this eruption cooled Earth’s average temperature by about 1 degree Fahrenheit for a few years. It wasn’t on the scale of Tambora, but it illustrated how short-term climate shifts could happen. 



Earlier eruptions like <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0377027322002190" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Samalas</a> (in 1257) and <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6456407/#:~:text=The%20Icelandic%20volcano%20Laki%20erupted,on%20record%20in%20Western%20Europe." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Laki</a> (in 1783-1784) also had strong impacts. Historical records suggest these events caused poor harvests, extreme winters and, in some cases, social upheavals. 



Studies of ice cores and tree rings indicate that giant blasts can lower global temperatures even more than Mount Pinatubo managed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-warming-intensifies-the-threat">Why warming intensifies the threat</h2>



Scientists who study volcanic systems are <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/research/news/increase-in-volcanic-eruptions-at-the-end-of-the-ice-age-caused-by-melting-ice-caps-and-glacial" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">looking</a> at how melting ice, heavier rains, and shifting pressures inside the Earth might encourage future eruptions. “The effects might be even worse than we saw back in 1815,” said <a href="https://as.nyu.edu/faculty/michael-rampino.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Rampino</a>, a professor at NYU, who suspects that all these factors could magnify the disruption.&nbsp;



Lighter ice sheets reduce the weight pressing down on magma sources, which can make it easier for molten rock to move upward. Meanwhile, <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9326289/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heavier rainfall</a> might seep deep underground and affect volcanic processes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-on-daily-life-and-food">Impacts on daily life and food</h2>



A sudden temperature drop of just 1 degree Celsius might not sound like a lot, but it comes as an average. Some places could experience chilling conditions that ruin crops across whole regions. 



A devastating scenario could see farmland in the U.S., Russia, and China all hit at once, which would lead to a decrease in global food supplies. 



More than 800 million people worldwide live <a href="https://pubs.usgs.gov/publication/70148718" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">within about 60 miles</a> of an active volcano. That proximity could put major population centers at risk if the blast sends out pyroclastic flows or thick ash.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-possible-surprises-from-the-past">Possible surprises from the past</h2>



Studies of ancient eruptions show that local climates can shift in striking ways. <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2002722117" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Researchers</a> investigating <a href="https://avo.alaska.edu/volcano/okmok" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Okmok volcano</a> in Alaska discovered that an enormous outburst in 43 BC may have cooled parts of the Mediterranean region by as much as 13 degrees Fahrenheit.&nbsp;



That sort of drastic change, even if temporary, can damage agriculture for multiple seasons. Such disruptions bring disease, hunger, and political tensions, especially if resources become scarce.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-can-be-done">What can be done</h2>



Specialists do not have a method to stop <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/axial-seamount-large-underwater-volcano-off-us-coast-will-likely-erupt-in-2025/">volcanoes from erupting</a>. Efforts focus on monitoring volcanic areas, improving evacuation plans, and modeling scenarios that anticipate how the ash and gases could spread.&nbsp;



Some scientists call for international cooperation to manage food reserves and healthcare services if an event like Tambora happens in today’s era. 



That includes looking at how to distribute supplies on short notice. Local authorities in active regions often conduct drills and share alerts, but experts suggest more investment in preparedness is necessary.



No one can say exactly when a volcano <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supervolcano-italy-solfatara-crater-phlegraean-fields-shows-signs-of-waking-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">will produce a colossal blast</a>. Certain sites, like parts of Indonesia or even Yellowstone in the western United States, get attention because they have erupted violently in the past. Yet the signs of unrest may come only a few months or even weeks beforehand. 



Stoffel urges a deeper look at possible future disasters. He advises scenario planning, building stockpiles, and forging rapid-response networks. Such strategies may reduce the shock to global trade and public health.



Details of the research were published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-03680-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Earth's next big volcano eruption will 'cause global chaos' because there is no plan

The volcano eruption at Mount Tambora in 1815, which is...

Chimpanzees bear genetic adaptations that help them thrive in different habitats, such as forests and savannahs, according to a recent study conducted by an international team of researchers. 



Moreover, some of these adaptations seem to protect them from diseases like malaria.



Led by the <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University College London </a>(UCL), the study sheds light on chimpanzee evolution, while offering new insights into the biology of malaria infection in humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-local-adaptations-in-chimpanzees">Local adaptations in chimpanzees </h2>



Chimpanzees share over 98% of their DNA with humans, making them invaluable for studying our own evolutionary history and vulnerabilities. 



The researchers investigated how different populations of chimpanzees have adapted to various environments - ranging from dense forests to open savannahs - and how these adaptations might protect them from diseases like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-malaria-impact-wild-african-apes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">malaria</a>.&nbsp;



The study also emphasizes the implications of habitat threats such as climate change and human pressures on these genetic adaptations.



“There are just a few hundred thousand chimpanzees alive, but they are found across very different landscapes from east Africa to the far west of the continent, including dense tropical rainforests and open areas of woodland and savannah. This makes them quite unique, because except for humans, all other apes live exclusively in forests,” said lead author Aida Andrés from the UCL Genetics Institute.&nbsp;



“Here we have shown that besides acquiring behavioral adaptations, different chimpanzee populations have evolved genetic differences to survive in their different local habitats.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-differences-of-chimpanzees">Genetic differences of chimpanzees</h2>



To explore genetic adaptation, the international team collected non-invasive DNA samples, primarily from feces, as part of the <a href="http://panafrican.eva.mpg.de/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pan African Program: The Cultured Chimpanzee</a> (PanAf).&nbsp;



These samples allowed scientists to analyze the exomes - the protein-coding regions - of 828 wild chimpanzees, eventually focusing on 388 individuals representing 30 different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chimpanzee-cultures-are-more-complex-than-we-realized/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a> across the four chimpanzee subspecies.



By comparing genetic variants across these populations and correlating them with local environmental conditions, the team identified key <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-lizards-show-physical-and-genetic-adaptations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic adaptations</a>. They discovered that genes related to pathogen resistance, especially malaria, showed strong signs of selection in forest-dwelling chimpanzees.&nbsp;



Specifically, genetic variants in the GYPA and HBB genes, known in humans for their roles in malaria resistance and sickle cell anemia respectively, were found to be under similar selective pressures.



“The close genetic similarities between the great apes have resulted in diseases jumping from apes to humans, such as with malaria and HIV/AIDS, so studying wild chimpanzees is extremely useful to understand these and other shared infectious diseases in humans, and could help to develop new treatments or vaccines,” explained Dr. Harrison Ostridge from UCL Genetics Institute.



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



The study highlights that as chimpanzees face threats like habitat destruction, poaching, and infectious diseases, their genetic diversity is crucial for resilience.&nbsp;



“As chimpanzees are facing threats across their range, including environmental changes to the climate and displacement due to human pressures, it is important that their genetic diversity is conserved to maintain their resilience and ensure the long-term survival of this intelligent and fascinating species,” Andrés said.



Moreover, finding that chimpanzees and humans share similar genetic adaptations to malaria provides an evolutionary perspective on how resistance to this disease has developed.&nbsp;



The discovery suggests that there might be limited genetic pathways to achieving malaria resistance, which could inform future human treatments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-from-diverse-habitats">Insights from diverse habitats</h2>



The research didn’t just focus on forest dwellers. It also touched on how chimpanzees adapt to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-the-scariest-predators-in-the-african-savannah/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">savannah</a> conditions - areas with higher temperatures, lower rainfall, and scarcer food. 



These adaptations may shed more light on how early human ancestors survived as they moved from forests to savannahs millions of years ago, adapting to new challenges along the way.



The study was a massive collaborative effort involving institutions across Africa, Europe, and North America. Dr. Hjalmar Kuehl, co-director of PanAf, acknowledged the work of international colleagues.



“This groundbreaking study on chimpanzee local adaptations could not be accomplished without the extraordinary collaboration of an international team of scientists who worked tirelessly to collect non-invasive data, including fecal samples, from countries across the chimpanzee range,” said Dr. Kuehl.



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



Furthermore, the research invites public engagement through initiatives like <a href="https://www.zooniverse.org/projects/sassydumbledore/chimp-and-see" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chimp &amp; See</a>, where community scientists can assist in annotating videos collected alongside genetic samples.



The findings have far-reaching implications not only for conservation efforts - by guiding strategies to preserve genetic diversity and adapt to environmental changes - but also for human health research into infectious diseases like malaria.&nbsp;



As the study continues, researchers aim to further unravel how genetic adaptations in chimpanzees mirror those in humans, potentially leading to breakthroughs in treatment and prevention strategies.



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.adn7954" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Chimpanzees are genetically adapted to thrive in their local environment

Chimpanzees bear genetic adaptations that help them thrive in different...

Antibiotic-resistant Salmonella is a growing public health concern, driven by the bacteria’s evolving ability to resist common drugs. While contaminated food is a well-known source of infection, new findings suggest that pet dogs may also serve as an overlooked conduit for transferring these pathogens to humans.&nbsp;



A study by <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pennsylvania State University</a> researchers has shown that household dogs are a significant risk for the spread of antimicrobial-resistant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-it-safe-to-eat-eggs-salmonella-contamination-found-in-poultry-production-chain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Salmonella</a>, highlighting the importance of proper hygiene and awareness when living closely with canine companions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-household-dogs-and-salmonella-nbsp">Household dogs and Salmonella&nbsp;</h2>



People can contract Salmonella through contaminated food products or direct contact with infected individuals or animals, often by unintentionally coming into contact with feces, such as when touching hands or petting animals.&nbsp;



The Penn State team revealed that household dogs might act as vectors for nontyphoidal Salmonella, which causes diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps in humans, potentially leading to dangerous complications in severe cases.



According to the experts, infected people can transmit Salmonella to other humans, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chernobyl-dogs-are-rapidly-evolving-in-strange-ways-due-to-nuclear-radiation-exposure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> can do the same, particularly since canine ownership involves close physical interaction, creating ample opportunities for bacterial spread. 



The study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/zph.13174" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zoonoses and Public Health</a>, provides new insights into an underrecognized factor in the cross-species transmission of Salmonella.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salmonella-in-dogs-clinical-or-asymptomatic">Salmonella in dogs: Clinical or asymptomatic</h2>



Salmonella infections in dogs can be clinical (showing signs or symptoms), or asymptomatic. 



Various studies have discovered Salmonella in clinically healthy dogs, according to senior author Erika Ganda, an assistant professor of food animal microbiomes at Penn State. 



This means that even dogs without any visible illness could harbor and shed Salmonella bacteria, posing an invisible risk.



A major concern is the close bond between humans and their pet dogs which creates ample opportunity for Salmonella ‘<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-u-s-is-alarmingly-unprepared-for-zoonotic-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">zoonosis</a>’ - the transition of the disease to humans from animals, Ganda noted. 



Choices regarding food handling, contaminated treats, and hygiene all factor into how easily the bacteria might spread from pets to people.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salmonella-strains-in-domestic-dogs-nbsp">Salmonella strains in domestic dogs&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers used the FDA's <a href="https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/science-research/veterinary-laboratory-investigation-and-response-network" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network</a> to identify Salmonella strains found in domestic dogs from May 2017 to March 2023. 



From these 87 canine cases, the team matched timing and location data with strains isolated from human infections in the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Center for Biotechnology Information</a> database. 



The analysis revealed 77 suspected zoonotic cases, meaning the pathogen likely jumped between dogs and humans, including 164 strains collected from 17 states.



Notably, the data showed that all identified strains carried resistance genes to drug classes designated by the <a href="https://www.who.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Health Organization</a> as critically or highly important. 



This indicates that companion animals could be part of a broader web of antimicrobial resistance that extends beyond farms and healthcare settings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interconnected-nature-of-human-and-animal-health">Interconnected nature of human and animal health</h2>



“We identified 16 nontyphoidal Salmonella isolates from humans closely related to more than one of six dog-associated strains,” explained lead author Sophia Kenney, a student in the molecular, cellular, and integrative biosciences doctoral program.&nbsp;



“Collectively, our data emphasize the importance of antimicrobial stewardship and sustained biosurveillance beyond human and agriculture-associated veterinary medicine, using a ‘One Health’ framework, that accounts for all transmission points - including companion animals.”



The One Health concept acknowledges the interconnected nature of human, animal, and environmental health.&nbsp;



This study expands the perspective by demonstrating how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-create-viruses-to-combat-antibiotic-resistant-bacteria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotic-resistant bacteria</a> in household dogs can pose a serious hazard to human well-being, particularly when owners lack knowledge about safe handling practices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-risks-and-rewards-of-dog-ownership">Balancing risks and rewards of dog ownership</h2>



While the discovery that dogs can harbor resistant Salmonella raises concern, researchers stress that pet ownership also offers substantial benefits.&nbsp;



“At the same time, several studies highlight the significant physical and mental health benefits of owning a dog, including reduced stress and increased physical activity,” said Ganda.&nbsp;&nbsp;



“Our goal is not to discourage pet ownership but to ensure that people are aware of potential risks and take simple steps, like practicing good hygiene, to keep both their families and their furry companions safe.”



The study cites examples of past outbreaks, such as pig ear pet treats that infected 154 people in 34 states, illustrating how easily pets can unwittingly pass along harmful bacteria.&nbsp;



Even the healthiest dog could carry Salmonella, emphasizing the need for consistent hand washing and careful supervision.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limiting-dog-exposure-to-salmonella-nbsp">Limiting dog exposure to Salmonella&nbsp;</h2>



Beyond the immediate risk to households, dog-associated Salmonella highlights a wider issue of antimicrobial resistance.&nbsp;



The authors propose that reducing the misuse of critically important antibiotics in companion animal medicine is essential. A “One Health” approach, incorporating the interactions between human medicine, veterinary care, and environmental factors, is crucial for mitigating the spread of resistant strains.



For the owners themselves, small changes such as washing hands after handling pets, cleaning dog bowls and food storage areas regularly, and avoiding raw meat diets for dogs can limit exposure to Salmonella. These measures protect families and maintain the health benefits of pet companionship.



Ultimately, the research points to a delicate balance between reaping the rewards of owning a dog and remaining vigilant about potential risks.&nbsp;



With greater awareness and responsible hygiene practices, families can safely enjoy the joy of canine companionship, ensuring that antibiotic-resistant Salmonella remains at bay.



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Humans can contract Salmonella infections from their dogs

Antibiotic-resistant Salmonella is a growing public health concern, driven by...

Picture a home being restored after years of neglect - that’s the transformation unfolding in the Yangtze River Basin (YRB), where bird habitats are being revitalized. 



Over the past few decades, this biodiversity hotspot - home to a rich variety of bird species - has faced severe habitat degradation driven by climate change and human activities.



Despite these challenges, the Yangtze River Basin stands as a testament to the resilience of nature and the power of rehabilitation. Today, we explore a study that offers glimmers of hope - a story that highlights the possibilities of resilience, restoration, and renewal.



The research was a collaborative effort by scientists from the <a href="https://www.nies.org/ywz/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences</a>, associated with China's Ministry of Ecology and Environment, and their colleagues at <a href="https://www.princeton.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Princeton University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-challenges-in-the-yangtze-river">Biodiversity challenges in the Yangtze River</h2>



"The Yangtze River Basin (YRB) is an area of economic importance in China's development and is also one of the key hotspots of global biodiversity," noted the researchers.



"As the world's third largest river, the Yangtze supports a population of 900 million (or more than 60% of the country), and it harbors a large proportion of China's biodiversity, with at least 14,000 plant species and 1,731 vertebrate animal species."



The study paints a comprehensive picture of bird diversity in the Yangtze River Basin. Beyond just stating facts, the experts evaluated the effectiveness of prior conservation measures.



For the investigation, the team used the Living Planet Index (LPIO), a tool that offers a multi-faceted understanding of bird populations by taking into account species abundance, richness, and information entropy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-s-eye-view-of-the-yangtze-river">Bird's eye view of the Yangtze River</h2>



The researchers focused on the decade between 2010 and 2020, studying 536 sites across the Yangtze River Basin. They found different trends among these regions.



The findings are mostly encouraging, revealing a 6.12% increase in bird <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hundreds-of-bird-species-face-extinction-risks-in-the-neotropics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diversity</a>. The improvement was particularly notable among terrestrial bird species and was echoed in increased functional complexity throughout the YRB.



However, challenges persist. In the downstream parts of the Yangtze River Basin, the researchers noted a 2.83% decrease in bird diversity.



This drop links back to the stark decline in wetland bird species, emphasizing the urgency of established and targeted conservation efforts in these areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wetland-restoration-is-crucial">Wetland restoration is crucial</h2>



"Our study provides compelling evidence that targeted conservation efforts can halt the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-extinctions-shatter-the-harmonious-balance-of-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decline of biodiversity</a>," said lead researcher Wei Liu.



The message is clear: continued monitoring and wetland restoration strategies are critical for safeguarding bird biodiversity in the Yangtze River Basin.



The research presents a replicable model for other regions grappling with similar environmental dilemmas. It shows that targeted conservation work can not only enhance biodiversity but also protect vital ecosystem services that underpin human well-being and economic stability.



"The results will improve our understanding of conservation and restoration programs and their impacts on biodiversity. This in turn can provide insights relevant for conservation policies and planning," said the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-balance-of-the-yangtze-river">Ecological balance of the Yangtze River </h2>



Spanning over 6,300 kilometers, the Yangtze River is more than just Asia's longest river; it is a lifeline for countless ecosystems. Its vast basin supports a mosaic of habitats, from wetlands and forests to grasslands, creating ideal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-wings-have-a-surprising-effect-on-island-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conditions for avian species</a> to thrive.



These habitats play a crucial role in global biodiversity, acting as a sanctuary for migratory birds and endemic species.



The Yangtze’s ecological balance has been disrupted over the decades by habitat fragmentation, urbanization, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-behavior-productivity-being-directly-impacted-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. Moreover, wetlands, which serve as vital breeding and feeding grounds for birds, have borne the brunt of human activity.



Despite these challenges, the river's resilience, coupled with targeted conservation measures, offers a glimmer of hope for its future.



"In light of the extant legislation and regulations concerning the protection of the Yangtze River, it is incumbent upon the relevant authorities to devise a comprehensive, large-scale wetland ecological restoration program for the downstream area," concluded the researchers.



"Moreover, additional monitoring sites should be established in the upstream area, with an even distribution across farmland, wetland, forest, and other habitat types."



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772985024000620?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eco-Environment &amp; Health</a>.



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Bird diversity is rebounding in the Yangtze River Basin

Picture a home being restored after years of neglect -...

Every day, countless cups of coffee leave behind piles of waste and grounds that often end up in landfills. People around the globe are seeking ways to reduce this organic trash, and construction researchers have identified a method that may give old coffee grounds a second life.



By finding innovative solutions, they are turning waste into a tool for advancing sustainability across industries, addressing the issue of waste management, and offering benefits to industries beyond the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coffee-production-threatened-by-loss-of-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee sector</a>.



By reimagining a common byproduct, scientists are opening doors to more sustainable and practical applications for organic waste, thereby transforming a problem into a valuable resource, which could redefine how organic waste is utilized.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-turning-coffee-grounds-into-stronger-concrete">Turning coffee grounds into stronger concrete</h2>



RMIT University engineer <a href="https://www.rmit.edu.au/profiles/r/rajeev-roychand" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Rajeev Roychand</a> and his colleagues have demonstrated that processing leftover coffee grounds can make concrete significantly stronger.&nbsp;



To unlock these benefits, researchers placed coffee waste in a low-oxygen environment and heated it to over 350 °F (about 660 °F). This heating method, called pyrolysis, changes the grounds into a carbon-rich material.



The treatment alters the coffee grounds at a molecular level, transforming them into a material that integrates well with concrete. More importantly, it enables the production of stronger concrete with reduced environmental impacts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-pyrolysis-is-key">Why pyrolysis is key</h2>



Pyrolysis involves heating organic matter in the absence of oxygen. When coffee waste is treated with this process at 350 °C, it transforms into a substance known as biochar, which carries the advantage of being able to bond effectively with cement.



In general, the construction industry has long faced challenges with resource consumption, particularly related to sand extraction. 



Using biochar derived from coffee can replace a portion of the sand that goes into concrete, thus lowering demand for natural sand.



This process not only lessens dependency on finite resources but also aligns with the growing push for sustainable construction practices. 



The pyrolyzed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coffee-flavor-can-be-improved-with-a-simple-trick/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a> biochar creates a porous structure that improves the way concrete holds together under stress. 



This method provides a dual benefit: finding a productive use for waste while simultaneously addressing the ecological impacts of sand extraction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-organic-waste-and-emissions">Reducing organic waste and emissions</h2>



Experts <a href="https://ico.org/resources/trade-statistics-tables/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">estimate</a> that global coffee consumption generates around 10 billion kilograms (22 billion pounds) of spent grounds each year. Much of this waste takes up precious space in landfills, while also releasing methane and carbon dioxide.&nbsp;



Methane is considered to be a more harmful greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide over a 100-year period. Hence, diverting this waste toward sustainable uses could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 



Ultimately, with coffee consumption so widespread, even small changes in recycling practices could have far-reaching effects on the environment.



“The disposal of organic waste poses an environmental challenge as it emits large amounts of greenhouse gases,” said <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0959652623023636" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Roychand</a>. By recycling coffee grounds, researchers hope to mitigate these environmental impacts while improving concrete’s quality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-indigenous-perspective-on-sustainability">Indigenous perspective on sustainability</h2>



“Inspiration for my research, from an Indigenous perspective, involves Caring for Country,” said RMIT engineer and co-researcher <a href="https://www.rmit.edu.au/news/all-news/2022/august/indigenous-researcher-ppe-innovation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Shannon Kilmartin-Lynch</a>.



Sustainable practices that keep organic waste from landfills can protect ecosystems, minimize pollution, and preserve natural resources. 



This philosophy integrates cultural respect for the environment with cutting-edge engineering techniques. Using coffee biochar in construction aligns with this idea of managing resources more responsibly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-will-this-really-work">Will this really work?</h2>



The coffee-biochar blend requires further testing to confirm its performance over extended periods. Scientists want to know how it stands up to water exposure, freeze-and-thaw cycles, and constant use.



These durability tests will help determine whether biochar-infused <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recycled-cement-is-an-absolute-miracle-to-lower-concrete-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">concrete</a> can meet the rigorous demands of modern infrastructure projects.



They are also planning to work with different types of organic waste (like wood scraps, food leftovers, and agricultural byproducts) to see if these can also be converted into materials that improve concrete’s structural properties.



These assessments are critical for determining whether the material can be used in large-scale construction projects. 



The research team is committed to exploring the practicality of biochar-based concrete under real-world conditions to ensure its reliability and safety.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-coffee-grounds-and-concrete">Future of coffee grounds and concrete</h2>



As buildings rise and infrastructure expands, the search for more sustainable practices will become even more urgent. This approach of adding coffee biochar to concrete could contribute to the circular economy.



Transforming a problematic waste into a valuable input, is the first push of many required to reduce reliance on raw materials such as natural sand. 



The example of this approach sets the stage for industries to adopt similar methods, encouraging broader adoption of waste-to-resource strategies.



Such actions promise to lessen the environmental strain while boosting the long-term resilience of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ancient-romans-made-such-incredibly-durable-concrete-is-no-longer-a-mystery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">construction methods</a>.



Through continued collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and businesses, innovations like this have the potential to reshape the way we think about resources. 



By connecting waste management to infrastructure, this research could redefine sustainability in the modern era.



The research findings were published in the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0959652623023636" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Cleaner Production</a>.



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Adding coffee grounds during the construction process could reinforce buildings

Every day, countless cups of coffee leave behind piles of...

For decades, paleontologists have been debating how and when the era of dinosaurs began, armed mostly with fragmented fossil records and theories.



The widely accepted belief is that dinosaurs first originated on Gondwana, the southern portion of the ancient supercontinent Pangea. 



For millions of years, their existence was thought to be confined to this region before they gradually spread to Laurasia, the northern part of Pangea.



This theory suggests that dinosaurs established themselves in the south long before leaving any evidence of their presence in the Northern Hemisphere. A remarkable discovery in Wyoming, however, is changing that narrative.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oldest-dinosaur-in-north-america">Oldest dinosaur in North America </h2>



In 2013, a team from the <a href="https://www.wisc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Wisconsin-Madison</a> uncovered fossil remains in the Popo Agie Formation, a region near the equator in ancient Laurasia. 



After years of painstaking analysis, the researchers identified the fossils as belonging to a new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-tracks-discovered-on-uks-dinosaur-highway/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur</a> species:&nbsp;Ahvaytum bahndooiveche.



This dinosaur, estimated to be 230 million years old, is now the oldest known dinosaur from Laurasia, challenging the idea that dinosaurs only thrived in the Southern Hemisphere during this time.



Dr. Dave Lovelace, a scientist at the <a href="https://museum.geoscience.wisc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UW Geology Museum</a>, emphasized the significance of the discovery. "We have, with these fossils, the oldest equatorial dinosaur in the world - it's also North America's oldest dinosaur," he said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-laurasia-north-america-and-dinosaurs">Laurasia, North America, and dinosaurs</h2>



Laurasia was one of two supercontinents that formed during the late <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/500-million-year-old-trilobites-fossils-preserved-in-volcanic-ash/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paleozoic</a> and early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-were-not-the-only-animals-that-grew-fast-during-the-mesozoic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mesozoic</a> eras. It was made up of what are now North America, Europe, and Asia.



Around 200 million years ago, Earth’s landmasses were all connected as part of a giant supercontinent called Pangaea. Over time, Pangaea started to break apart, and Laurasia emerged as the northern part of the split.



While it was a vast landmass, it wasn’t just one giant chunk of land - it was split into several regions that would eventually evolve into the continents we know today.



As Laurasia broke apart and drifted into its current position, it played a major role in shaping the world’s geography. 



The separation of Laurasia from the southern supercontinent, <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/supercontinents-101-pannotia-gondwana-and-pangea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gondwana</a>, led to the creation of the Atlantic Ocean, which opened up between North America and Europe. 



The shifting of Laurasia also influenced global climates and ecosystems, setting the stage for the diverse life forms that would appear in the following millions of years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-characteristics-of-the-dinosaur-fossil">Characteristics of the dinosaur fossil</h2>



Far from the towering giants of later eras,&nbsp;Ahvaytum bahndooiveche&nbsp;was modest in size. 



"It was basically the size of a chicken but with a really long tail," Dr. Lovelace explained. Measuring just over one foot tall and three feet long, this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-extinction-of-dinosaurs-was-not-caused-by-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early dinosaur</a> likely lived an omnivorous lifestyle, similar to its sauropod relatives.



Although the fossil record for&nbsp;Ahvaytum bahndooiveche&nbsp;is incomplete, the team's research places this species in a critical period following the Carnian pluvial episode. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/dinosaur_Ahvaytum-bahndooiveche_species-discovery_Gabriel-Ugueto_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/dinosaur_Ahvaytum-bahndooiveche_species-discovery_Gabriel-Ugueto_1s.webp" alt="An artist's rendering shows how Ahvaytum bahndooiveche may have appeared in a habitat dating to around 230 million years ago. Credit: Gabriel Ugueto" class="wp-image-1956236"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An artist's rendering shows how Ahvaytum bahndooiveche may have appeared in a habitat dating to around 230 million years ago. Credit: Gabriel Ugueto</figcaption></figure>



This climatic event, which occurred 234 to 232 million years ago, drastically altered the environment - turning vast, arid deserts into lush and fertile landscapes.



These changes created more hospitable habitats, which likely played a key role in encouraging the diversification and spread of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-did-dinosaurs-sound-like/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early dinosaurs</a>. The period marked an important chapter in dinosaur evolution, as species began to adapt to these new and thriving ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timeline-of-dinosaur-evolution">Timeline of dinosaur evolution</h2>



Using high-precision radioisotopic dating, the scientists determined that&nbsp;Ahvaytum bahndooiveche&nbsp;lived in Laurasia about 230 million years ago, making it one of the oldest known dinosaurs from the Northern Hemisphere.



Older tracks in the same region suggest that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-triassic-fossil-gondwanax-paraisensis-may-rewrite-history-of-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur</a>-like creatures were present there even earlier, challenging previous beliefs that dinosaurs originated solely in the Southern Hemisphere before spreading northward.



This discovery alters the timeline of dinosaur evolution in North America while highlighting a significant collaboration with the Eastern Shoshone Tribe.



The species' name,&nbsp;Ahvaytum bahndooiveche, meaning "long ago dinosaur," honors the Indigenous people whose ancestral lands were home to the fossil site. 



This partnership reflects a deeper respect for cultural heritage, integrating Indigenous language and perspectives into the scientific process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-model-for-research">New model for research</h2>



Amanda LeClair-Diaz, an Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribal member, highlighted the importance of this partnership. 



"The continuous relationship developed between Dr. Lovelace, his team, and our community is one of the most important outcomes of this discovery," said LeClair-Diaz.



"Typically, the research process in communities, especially Indigenous communities, has been one sided, with the researchers fully benefiting from studies. The work we have done with Dr. Lovelace breaks this cycle and creates an opportunity for reciprocity in the research process."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-legacy-of-collaboration">Legacy of collaboration</h2>



The discovery of&nbsp;Ahvaytum bahndooiveche&nbsp;holds significance beyond just expanding our scientific knowledge. It challenges long-held beliefs about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/qunkasaura-pintiquiniestra-new-sauropod-dinosaur-discovered-in-spain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur</a> origins and encourages scientists to rethink established theories. 



Additionally, this finding highlights the value of incorporating diverse perspectives in research. 



By collaborating with the Eastern Shoshone Tribe in naming the dinosaur and respecting the cultural heritage of the land where the fossils were found, the project sets a new standard for inclusive and ethical scientific practices. 



The study is published in the <a href="https://academic.oup.com/zoolinnean/article/203/1/zlae153/7942678?login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society</a>.



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Dinosaur discovery in North America is completely rewriting their history

For decades, paleontologists have been debating how and when the...

Beneath the ocean’s surface, fisheries rely on the health of vibrant and complex ecosystems. Coral reefs, in particular, are the center of underwater life. 



They provide essential food and shelter to countless marine species, making them crucial for maintaining marine biodiversity and ecosystem balance. Without coral reefs, many sea creatures would struggle to survive, threatening the entire marine environment.



But these individual ecosystems are in deep trouble. And that can have a ripple effect, impacting not just marine life, but human livelihoods too - particularly in the fisheries sector.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coral-decline-affects-fisheries">Coral decline affects fisheries </h2>



According to a recent study from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (<a href="https://www.whoi.edu/who-we-are/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WHOI</a>), a decline in live <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-coral-bleaching-event-prompts-emergency-un-session/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral</a> habitats directly influences the yield of marine fisheries.



The researchers explored the yield trends of nine fisheries in the vicinity of Australia's iconic Great Barrier Reef from 2016 to 2020.



The team uncovered a worrying trend- significant losses could be the unfortunate reality if coral restoration efforts are not amped up.



In 2024, the Great Barrier Reef faced a severe bleaching episode, one of the worst in its history. During this event, an alarming 73% of surveyed reefs showed signs of bleaching, as per the Australian Marine Institute.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coral-bleaching-threat-to-marine-biodiversity">Coral bleaching: Threat to marine biodiversity</h2>



Coral reefs depend on microscopic algae, zooxanthellae, for survival and their bright hues. When ocean temperatures rise, the coral gets stressed and expels these crucial algae, leading to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/60-percent-global-coral-reefs-face-bleaching-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bleaching</a>.



The persistent warming trend means the algae may not return, leaving the coral bleached and on the brink of death. 



Over the past 30 years, a staggering 19% of the world's coral reef area has been lost due to bleaching induced by ocean warming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fish-and-famine-lives-and-livelihoods-at-risk">Fish and famine: Lives and livelihoods at risk</h2>



“This rapid loss of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-worlds-largest-coral-bleaching-event-is-now-underway/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral</a> will force fish capable of living independently of them to move elsewhere. Less concentrated populations can lead to smaller yields for fisheries," noted Marine (Yaqin) Liu, an environmental economist at WHOI.



When it comes to fish species that directly rely on reefs for food or shelter, like butterflyfish and coral trout, their yield will deplete in parallel with their population decline.



And it's not just marine life at risk. Many fisheries, and the communities they support, are bound for turbulent waters. 



The study pointed out coral trout and saddletail snappers, which heavily rely on outer-shelf reefs as their primary habitat, as the two most vulnerable fisheries. 



If the live coral cover of the Great Barrier Reef reduces from 30% to 25%, the maximum sustainable yield of coral trout and saddletail snappers would drop by 8% and 19%, respectively. 



An even steeper decline from 10% to 5% live coral cover could result in losses of 27% and a startling 56% for coral trout and saddletail snapper fisheries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coral-decline-economic-impact-on-fisheries">Coral decline: Economic impact on fisheries</h2>



These losses are not only ecological but economic. Professor Qingran Li, from <a href="https://www.clarkson.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Clarkson University</a> in New York, shed light on the economic toll.



"Coral trout and saddletail snapper are part of Queensland, Australia’s line fishery, an industry with $27-31 million gross value," said Professor Li.



"While this methodology of this study does not lend itself to making dollar predictions, we can expect a decline in fishing yields to have substantial economic impacts, such as loss of jobs and reduced export."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-coral-reefs-and-fisheries">Preserving coral reefs and fisheries</h2>



As <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reefs-could-vanish-if-temperatures-continue-to-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral reefs</a> continue to battle warmer waters and bleaching events become more frequent, their role in nurturing marine life and safeguarding coastal communities from major storms becomes increasingly crucial. Their contribution to tourism and fishing revenues is equally significant.



These ecosystems also act as natural barriers, reducing the impact of storm surges and protecting vulnerable coastlines from erosion.



Data-driven climate change advocacy is so essential. "Responsible fisheries are already safeguarding coral <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-bleaching-hinders-reproduction-in-popular-reef-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reefs</a> by integrating sustainable approaches, but human impacts like ocean warming and acidification further threaten coral reefs and fisheries yields," said Liu.



"WHOI’s Reef Solutions Team continues study and develop innovative ways to restore and strengthen coral reefs, with a goal of taking successful learnings and implementing them globally."



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Bleaching effect: Coral loss threatens fisheries and livelihoods

Beneath the ocean’s surface, fisheries rely on the health of...

The Mediterranean Sea has always been a hotspot for marine life and many crustacean species. It connects diverse regions and hosts a blend of species shaped by environmental shifts and human activities. 



New data about organisms arriving from distant waters has sparked fresh interest among researchers studying these coastal zones. 



A recent investigation highlights <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/new-species-crustaceans-mediterranean-waters.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">previously unrecorded crustaceans</a> that have been found in areas of the Mediterranean. This may spark changes to our understanding of ecosystem structure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-encroaching-on-marine-life">Humans encroaching on marine life</h2>



Ports and piers are common along coastlines worldwide. They accommodate ships and stimulate commerce, but they can also serve as convenient footholds for newly arrived <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-climate-impacts-threaten-key-marine-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine species</a>. 



As humans construct new docks and other artificial surfaces, unexpected marine travelers and crustacean species may find places to settle. 



Some hitch rides on vessels, while others arrive in ballast water. Once they find a suitable location, they can spread and compete with established indigenous life forms. 



The research focused on organisms that were attached to local reefs and artificial structures. Findings showed that three species (<a href="https://www.gbif.org/species/4309967" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Athanas dimorphus</a>, <a href="https://www.gbif.org/species/2227601" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pilumnus longicornis</a>, and <a href="https://www.gbif.org/species/216384541" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pilumnus savignyi</a>) had never before been documented in the Mediterranean Sea. 



This discovery opens the door to new questions about how these crustaceans ended up along Israel’s shore.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-early-detection">Importance of early detection</h2>



A method called <a href="https://naturalhistory.si.edu/research/global-arms-program#:~:text=What%20is%20an%20Autonomous%20Reef,sample%20without%20destroying%20natural%20habitat." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ARMS</a> (Automated Reef Monitoring Structures) assists scientists to identify the presence of species that are not immediately visible. 



ARMS units look like simple boxes or frames, but they attract tiny organisms and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-impacting-marine-life-more-than-we-realized/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other marine life</a> that settle within their layers. 



By placing these devices along Israel's coast and checking them regularly, researchers can note newcomers. Early detection matters because once a non-native creature gains a foothold, it can be tough to remove.&nbsp;



If there is a time lag between identifying a new species that is present and trying to remove it or mitigate its effects, the process of removal or mitigation becomes more resource-intensive. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invasive-crustacean-species">Invasive crustacean species</h2>



"Invasive species can have impacts on our marine industries, such as growing on marine structures, killing or competing with marine aquaculture species and by spreading disease," said researchers at the <a href="https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/discover/what-are-invasive-species" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Plymouth</a>. According to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), tackling <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-unleash-invasive-species-into-unexpected-areas/">invasive species</a> costs the U.K. approximately <a href="https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201919/cmselect/cmenvaud/88/88.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1.8 billion pounds annually</a>. 



On a global scale, the cost is estimated to exceed $100 billion per year, which surpasses the financial toll of natural disasters.



These findings line up with the concerns raised by Professor <a href="https://smnh.tau.ac.il/en/research-at-smnh-2/scientific-staff/bella-galil/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bella S. Galil </a>and her colleagues, who stress the need for consistent programs that could give policymakers a chance to take swift action.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-variety-of-new-faces">Variety of new faces</h2>



The study does not only mention the three species that are fresh to the entire region. Two additional species, Sphaerozius nitidus and Liomera rugipes, also appear to be new to Israel’s coast.&nbsp;



Researchers see this as further proof that non-native animals can set up shop wherever conditions suit them. These crustaceans may slip into a niche or bring new challenges to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meet-melita-panda-the-black-and-white-crustacean-shrimp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">local ecological structures</a>. The nuances of whether they will harm native habitats remain unclear, though similar introductions in other parts of the world have led to shifts in local species interactions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-new-crustacean-species-matter">Why new crustacean species matter</h2>



Foreign organisms can be more than a scientific curiosity. They can bring serious economic and environmental consequences. 



Sometimes, they feed on shellfish or disrupt fisheries. Tourism can also suffer if non-native pests degrade coral reefs or affect coastal recreation. 



While not all alien species become full-blown problems, the possibility remains. That is why prompt discovery is so significant.&nbsp;



“Invasive alien species are a major cause of biodiversity loss,” notes the <a href="https://iucn.org/our-work/biodiversity" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IUCN</a> (International Union for Conservation of Nature).



When local ecosystems lose certain species to competition or predation, the broader food web may suffer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-calls-for-wider-monitoring">Calls for wider monitoring</h2>



Scientists advise that Israel’s National Monitoring Program increase its capacity to track these types of arrivals. Installing ARMS at newly developed coastal sites and shipping points could help gather more consistent information.&nbsp;



Some experts also believe that a wider regional push would be beneficial. If neighboring countries used the same approaches, they could share results and identify potential issues sooner. 



This might prevent a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-deep-sea-crustacean-species-discovered-in-the-bahamas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">newly arrived crustacean</a> or fish from spreading unnoticed across international boundaries. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-for-these-new-crustacean-species">What's next for these new crustacean species?</h2>



In addition to official programs, private operators of marinas or industrial sites could adopt more thorough procedures. Using ARMS as an early warning tool, they might recognize invasive hitchhikers before they disrupt existing habitats.&nbsp;



The reason many professionals keep sounding the alarm is clear. Sometimes, small changes in ocean life pass under the radar until entire fisheries notice declines in catch or find that new diseases have entered the ecosystem. Swift, standardized methods can act like an insurance plan for marine environments.



Monitoring and intervention go hand in hand. Information from the ARMS approach can guide where to focus limited resources. 



If a newly arrived species shows signs of becoming a hazard, an immediate response might keep that threat under control. 



The recent discoveries in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-mediterranean-nearly-lost-all-of-its-water-6-million-years-ago/">Mediterranean</a> mark a call to action for all stakeholders. It might seem daunting, but the tools and knowledge are now available to keep this region healthier and more stable in the years ahead.&nbsp;



Details of the full study were published in the <a href="https://www.reabic.net/journals/mbi/2024/4/MBI_2024_Galil_etal.pdf">Management of Biological Invasions</a>. 



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New invasive crustacean species discovered in the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean Sea has always been a hotspot for marine...

We’ve all seen houseplants tucked in corners far from windows or lush greenery growing under dense tree canopies. Yet, these plants manage to grow and thrive in shade without direct sunlight. How do they do it?



New research reveals that shaded plants capture more light than previously believed. Scientists from Utrecht University and Wageningen University &amp; Research (WUR) found that these plants effectively use light beyond the visible spectrum. 



Published in the journal Plant Cell &amp; Environment, the findings could transform photosynthesis research and greenhouse horticulture practices.



“When you have a better understanding of how different colors of light affect photosynthesis and plant growth, you can help growers develop smart ways to supplement natural sunlight with colored light,” noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shaded-plants-capture-far-red-light">Shaded plants capture far-red light </h2>



Shaded plants benefit from light that filters through the leaves of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-uncover-how-plants-grow-wider-not-just-taller/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> above them. When sunlight hits the upper plant leaves, they absorb most of the light for photosynthesis but allow some light to pass through. 



This unabsorbed light primarily consists of green and far-red wavelengths, which are less useful to the upper plants but become crucial for the plants below.



Far-red light, in particular, falls within the 700–750 nm range of the light spectrum. Unlike visible light, which plants predominantly use for photosynthesis, far-red light was previously thought to have little impact. 



However, the study reveals that shaded plants have adapted to use far-red light effectively for photosynthesis, allowing them to survive and grow even in low-light environments. This ability is vital for plants in dense forests or closely planted crops, where direct sunlight is scarce.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-photosynthesis-in-shaded-plants">Photosynthesis in shaded plants</h2>



“Until now, researchers have seldom considered the possibility that plants utilize far-red light for photosynthesis,” said WUR PhD candidate <a href="https://research.wur.nl/en/persons/tinko-jans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tinko Jans</a>.



Conventional experiments suggested that photosynthesis relied mainly on visible wavelengths (400–700 nm). 



However, this study reveals that far-red light significantly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/booster-plant-gene-discovery-amplifies-plant-growth-up-to-200-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">boosts photosynthesis</a> when combined with small amounts of visible light. The team developed a new method to measure and model this contribution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-grow-taller-using-far-red-light">Plants grow taller using far-red light</h2>



Far-red light also affects plant behavior, triggering a “shade avoidance response.” “Many plants react to a relative increase in far-red light by growing straight up, to win the competition for light,” Jans explained.



This response benefits horticulturists, allowing plants to grow closer together in limited spaces.



Recent advances in LED technology have enabled researchers to study far-red light more effectively. 



“In earlier experiments, we showed that shade <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-plants-grow-more-branches-and-become-bushy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants grow faster</a> when supplemented with far-red light from LEDs,” noted Utrecht University environmental scientist <a href="https://www.uu.nl/staff/HJdeBoer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hugo de Boer</a>, who initiated the study.



The findings highlight how controlled light environments can optimize plant growth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-considering-the-full-light-spectrum">Considering the full light spectrum </h2>



The scientists faced challenges in studying the role of far-red light in photosynthesis because existing models only considered visible light (400–700 nm) as the primary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-soil-day-2024-protecting-our-planets-lifeline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contributor to plant growth</a>.



Far-red light was largely overlooked in traditional research and calculations.



“It turned out to be much more difficult to quantify the color effect on photosynthesis,” explained Hugo de Boer, as earlier models and measurement methods were not designed to account for the influence of far-red light.



To overcome this, the researchers adapted widely used photosynthesis models to include far-red light. They combined measurements of photosynthesis with data from the full spectrum of light reaching plant leaves. 



This updated approach allowed them to accurately demonstrate how far-red light, when integrated with visible light, significantly enhances photosynthesis and supports plant growth. 



This breakthrough highlights the importance of considering the full light spectrum in both research and agricultural practices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greenhouse-crop-cultivation">Greenhouse crop cultivation</h2>



The research highlights a previously underestimated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-how-climate-change-will-alter-plant-growth-cycles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">factor in plant growth</a>: the role of far-red light in photosynthesis.



Far-red light was once thought to contribute little to photosynthesis. However, the study demonstrates that plants can effectively use this light, especially when combined with visible light, to enhance their growth.



The findings hold significant potential for greenhouse horticulture. By integrating far-red light into lighting strategies, growers can optimize plant growth even in shaded or crowded environments where sunlight is limited.



This approach could improve crop yields while reducing the energy and space required for cultivation.



Leveraging far-red light offers a smarter, more sustainable method of farming, allowing plants to thrive in conditions that were previously considered suboptimal. This advancement could transform modern agriculture, making it more efficient and environmentally friendly.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pce.15340" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plant Cell &amp; Environment</a>.



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Plants living in the shade get much more light than previously believed

We’ve all seen houseplants tucked in corners far from windows...

Nature often surprises us with its ingenious adaptations, and the cricket frog is no exception. Native to Virginia and North Carolina, these tiny frogs display an ability that seems almost magical: moving across water as if it were solid ground. 



Known as “skittering,” this behavior has intrigued scientists and inspired visions of futuristic technologies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-capabilities-of-cricket-frogs">Capabilities of cricket frogs</h2>



Jake Socha, a professor of mechanical engineering, and his research team at <a href="https://www.vt.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virginia Tech</a> have examined this phenomenon.



“The humble cricket <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-frog-day-addressing-environmental-threats-to-frogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frog</a> lives nearby, and yet it still surprised us with its capabilities, further motivating our curiosity to understand the living world,” said Professor Socha.



The research, published in the&nbsp;Journal of Experimental Biology, challenges popular notions about how frogs traverse water.



“Skittering is not actually a well-defined word for this behavior. Part of this research is not only studying this behavior in cricket frogs but to try and give ‘skittering’ a more precise, scientific definition,” explained study lead author and graduate researcher Talia Weiss.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cricket-frogs-don-t-walk-on-water">Cricket frogs don’t walk on water</h2>



Using high-speed cameras shooting at 500 frames per second, the team captured the frogs’ motions in astonishing detail. 



Contrary to the idea that these frogs glide effortlessly across water, the footage revealed something unexpected: the frogs sink between each leap.



“It’s fascinating how easily we can be fooled by fast animal movements,” said Professor Socha. “Here, we’re fooled by a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frog-saunas-hot-solution-to-fighting-global-amphibian-extinction-apocalypse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frog</a> that appears like a skipping stone, but is actually jumping and dunking multiple times in a row.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leaping-frogs-resemble-dolphins-jumping">Leaping frogs resemble dolphins jumping</h2>



The movement of cricket frogs, often mistaken for walking on water, is better described as "porpoising," a motion similar to the way dolphins leap in and out of the water. 



Unlike true walking, this behavior involves distinct stages within each jump cycle, which researchers broke down into four key phases:



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Takeoff: The frog begins completely submerged in water. Using its powerful hind legs, it pushes off against the water, propelling its body upward and into the air. This explosive motion provides the energy needed for the leap.</li>



<li>Aerial: While in mid-air, the frog's legs remain extended, providing balance and stability during its short flight. This phase gives the impression that the frog is gracefully skipping across the water.</li>



<li>Re-entry: The frog's front legs are the first to contact the water as it descends. The rest of the body follows, creating a splash and breaking the water's surface as it sinks back under.</li>



<li>Recovery: Once submerged, the frog rapidly retracts its legs to prepare for the next jump. This resetting phase ensures the frog is ready to push off again almost immediately.</li>
</ol>



Each of these phases occurs in less than a second, allowing the frog to perform up to eight consecutive jumps in quick succession. This rapid, repetitive motion creates the illusion that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-economic-strategy-could-save-endangered-frogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frog</a> is walking or skipping on water, though it is actually sinking and leaping continuously. 



The efficiency and speed of these movements highlight the cricket frog’s unique adaptations for this behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-frog-movement-inspires-robots">Frog movement inspires robots</h2>



Understanding the mechanics of skittering has implications far beyond biology. This unique locomotion could inspire innovations in robotics and engineering. For instance, amphibious drones designed for water testing or rescue missions might mimic the cricket frog’s efficient movements.



“Frogs are great jumpers, but most of them don’t exhibit this porpoising behavior, and we still don’t know why,” noted Professor Socha. “Is there something special about the frog’s leap, or is it simply a matter of small body size?”



This research highlights how studying even the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/puddle-frogs-have-a-secret-weapon-against-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smallest creatures</a> can lead to big discoveries. The cricket frog’s seemingly simple movement holds secrets that may shape the future of technology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cricket-frogs-built-for-skittering-on-water">Cricket frogs: Built for skittering on water</h2>



Cricket frogs may be small, but their anatomy is a masterpiece of adaptation. Their ability to skitter across water is no accident; it’s the result of finely tuned physical traits that allow them to excel at leaping, sinking, and jumping again.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-hind-legs">Powerful hind legs</h3>



The cricket frog’s hind legs are disproportionately long and muscular for its tiny body. These legs provide the explosive force needed to propel the frog both on land and through water. 



Their large, well-developed muscles allow for rapid extension and retraction, making it possible to perform consecutive jumps in quick succession.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lightweight-body">Lightweight body</h3>



Weighing less than many other frogs, cricket frogs benefit from a lightweight frame. This reduces resistance when they re-enter the water after a jump, helping them maintain momentum. Their small size also means they create minimal drag during movement.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flexible-joints">Flexible joints</h3>



Their joints, particularly in the hind legs, are highly flexible. This flexibility enables the frogs to fully extend their legs during the takeoff phase and then rapidly retract them underwater to reset for the next leap.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-streamlined-body-shape">Streamlined body shape</h3>



The cricket frog’s body is slightly flattened, which may help reduce resistance during re-entry into the water. This streamlined shape allows for smoother transitions between aerial and submerged phases of their movement.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-adaptations">Skin adaptations</h3>



The frog’s skin plays a subtle but critical role. Smooth and water-resistant, it minimizes friction as the frog moves in and out of the water. This feature also helps maintain buoyancy and allows for quicker movement beneath the surface.



Ultimately, the cricket frog’s body is a perfect example of how evolution tailors physical traits to meet specific survival needs. Each aspect of the frogs' anatomy, from powerful legs to streamlined bodies, contributes to their ability to skitter on water.&nbsp;



The study is published in the <a href="https://journals.biologists.com/jeb/article-abstract/227/22/jeb249403/363001/Skittering-locomotion-in-cricket-frogs-a-form-of?redirectedFrom=fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Experimental Biology</a>.



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Cricket frogs can literally walk on water as if it were dry land

Nature often surprises us with its ingenious adaptations, and the...

Have you ever found yourself in a heated discussion with someone of the opposite sex and thought - "it's like we're wired differently"? Well, a recent study from the University of Cambridge suggests that male and female brains are indeed wired differently from the time of birth.



This study, one of the largest of its kind, analyzed the brain anatomy of more than 500 newborns using advanced imaging techniques.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-difference-in-male-and-female-brains">Difference in male and female brains</h2>



The findings reveal distinct <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mens-brains-shrink-in-the-evening-and-reset-overnight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">differences in brain structure</a> between male and female infants in both the grey and white matter regions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grey-matter">Grey matter</h3>



Female newborns typically have more grey matter in their brains. Grey matter is found in the outermost layer of the brain, known as the cortex. 



This tissue is essential for key mental functions including memory processing, emotional regulation, and interpreting information.



This could explain why females often excel in recalling memories and displaying emotional awareness, even from a young age.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-white-matter">White matter</h3>



Male newborns generally have more white matter in their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-reveals-the-secret-to-keeping-your-brain-young/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brains</a>. White matter consists of neural pathways that connect different brain regions, creating a network for fast communication. 



It serves as the brain’s "superhighway," and supports semsory processing and motor control.



These differences may contribute to males having stronger spatial awareness and better physical coordination early in life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-and-nurture-in-brain-development">Nature and nurture in brain development</h2>



The study indicates that these differences likely originate during prenatal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/first-complete-map-of-every-neuron-in-the-brain-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain development</a> and may become more pronounced as environmental factors interact with biological wiring.



“Because these sex differences are evident so soon after birth, they might in part reflect biological sex differences during prenatal brain development,” explained study lead author Yumnah Khan.



“We took additional factors into account, such as birth weight, to ensure that these differences are specific to the brain and not due to general size differences between the sexes,” added co-author Dr. Alex Tsompanidis.



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



Professor Simon Baron-Cohen, a co-author of the study, emphasized that the findings do not imply superiority of one sex’s brain over the other.



Instead, they shed light on neurodiversity - the concept that different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-the-brain-process-experiences-over-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain structures</a> and functions can lead to diverse strengths and ways of thinking.



Professor Baron-Cohen highlights the potential implications of these findings for understanding conditions like autism, which is more frequently diagnosed in males.



The study's insights into sex-based brain differences may help researchers better understand how neurodevelopmental conditions emerge and why they may differ between sexes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-male-brain-theory">Extreme male brain theory</h2>



In his "extreme male brain theory," Professor Baron-Cohen proposed that males tend to excel at systemizing, which involves identifying patterns, understanding rules, and solving logical problems.



In contrast, females are generally better at&nbsp;empathizing, which includes understanding and responding to the emotions and perspectives of others. 



This study aligns with the idea that these differences are rooted in biology, but the real-world implications remain intricate and influenced by numerous factors, including environment and experience.



The study reinforces the idea that male and female <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-cannabis-use-affect-brain-structure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brains</a> are distinct but equally valuable. These differences contribute to a broader understanding of human neurodiversity, and help researchers explore conditions like autism and the varied ways in which brains function across sexes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-debate-continues">The debate continues</h2>



Not all researchers agree on the significance of brain differences between sexes. 



A 2021 study by researchers at <a href="https://www.rosalindfranklin.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rosalind Franklin University</a> found that brain structure variations between men and women were negligible when adjusting for size.



A 2013 <a href="https://www.upenn.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Pennsylvania</a> study noted “striking” differences in neural wiring, while a 2017 study suggested women’s brains are more active - particularly in areas tied to focus and impulse control.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-male-and-female-brains-are-distinct">Male and female brains are distinct</h2>



While this study confirms sex-based brain differences from birth, it also reignites the debate over their relevance in adulthood. 



The findings highlight the interplay between biology and environment that shapes the way we think, feel, and interact. As researchers continue to explore this topic, one thing is clear: male and female brains are distinct, but equal in complexity and capability.



"These differences do not imply the brains of males and females are better or worse," said Professor Baron-Cohen. They are simply different, and this adds richness to human diversity.



The study is published in the journal <a class="" href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s13293-024-00657-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biology of Sex Differences</a>.



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Male and female brains truly are wired completely differently

Have you ever found yourself in a heated discussion with...

A good night’s sleep does more than help you feel rested - it literally clears your mind. New research reveals how deep sleep removes waste buildup in the brain, a process that is crucial for brain health.



However, sleep aids may disrupt this natural “brainwashing” system, raising questions about their long-term effects on cognitive function.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-s-built-in-cleanup-system">Brain’s built-in cleanup system</h2>



The glymphatic system is like a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-sleep-transforms-brain-performance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cleaning service for your brain</a>. Throughout the day, metabolic waste builds up in the brain, including toxic proteins that, if not removed, can lead to neurological issues like Alzheimer’s disease.



The glymphatic system works by using cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), a clear liquid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, to flush out these harmful substances.



Think of the CSF as water flowing through pipes and washing away debris. This process happens most effectively during deep sleep, when the brain’s cleaning system kicks into high gear.



While scientists have known about the glymphatic system’s existence for years, they didn’t understand exactly what powered it - until now.



Recent research has shown that norepinephrine, a chemical messenger in the brain, is key. During deep sleep, waves of norepinephrine cause blood vessels in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-brain-literally-changes-based-on-daily-activities-and-lifestyle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a> to pulse rhythmically. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-norepinephrine-in-brain-cleaning">Role of norepinephrine in brain cleaning</h2>



Danish scientists have uncovered a crucial role for norepinephrine during deep sleep. They found that the brainstem releases waves of norepinephrine roughly every 50 seconds during this sleep phase. 



These waves cause blood vessels in the brain to contract and relax rhythmically, much like a pump. This rhythmic movement generates fluid pulses that help cerebrospinal fluid flow through the brain and flush out waste and toxins.



“It’s like turning on the dishwasher before you go to bed and waking up with a clean brain,” explained Maiken Nedergaard, senior author and researcher at the <a href="https://www.rochester.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Rochester</a> and <a href="https://www.ku.dk/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Copenhagen</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-blood-flow-during-sleep">Brain blood flow during sleep</h2>



Nedergaard's team investigated how norepinephrine affects blood flow during sleep. In sleeping mice, they observed that waves of norepinephrine align with changes in the size of blood vessels.



These waves cause the blood vessels to alternately contract and expand in a steady rhythm. This rhythmic motion acts like a pump, pushing cerebrospinal fluid through the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sleep-how-slow-waves-boost-memory-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a> to remove waste.



“You can view norepinephrine as this conductor of an orchestra. There’s a harmony in the constriction and dilation of the arteries, which then drives the cerebrospinal fluid through the brain to remove the waste products,” noted lead author Natalie Hauglund.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-are-all-types-of-sleep-equal">Are all types of sleep equal?</h2>



The researchers investigated how zolpidem, a common sleep aid, affects the brain's cleaning system during deep sleep. They found that mice given zolpidem experienced a significant reduction in norepinephrine waves, which are essential for driving the brain’s waste-clearing process. 



Specifically, the norepinephrine waves were 50% weaker in mice that were given zolpidem than in mice that slept naturally.



As a result, the fluid transport system responsible for flushing out brain waste slowed down by more than 30 percent. Although zolpidem helped the mice fall asleep faster, their brain’s ability to remove harmful waste was compromised.



This suggests that while sleep aids like zolpidem can promote sleep, they might interfere with the brain's natural cleaning processes, potentially <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-sleep-habits-may-age-the-brain-faster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">affecting long-term brain health</a>.



“If people aren’t getting the full benefits of sleep, they should be aware of that so they can make informed decisions,” Hauglund warned.



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



While this study was focused on mice, the researchers believe the findings are relevant to humans, who also have a glymphatic system.



Similar patterns of norepinephrine waves, blood flow changes, and fluid dynamics have been observed in human brains. Disruptions to these processes may contribute to neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.



“Now we know norepinephrine is driving the cleaning of the brain, we may figure out how to get people a long and restorative sleep,” Nedergaard concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-keeping-the-brain-healthy-with-sleep">Keeping the brain healthy with sleep</h2>



The research highlights how critical deep sleep is for keeping the brain healthy. During deep sleep, the brain’s cleaning system removes harmful waste and toxins. This process is essential for preventing neurological disorders and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-is-essential-for-memory-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">maintaining cognitive function</a>.



While sleep aids can make falling asleep easier, they may interfere with the brain's natural cleaning process by disrupting mechanisms like norepinephrine waves, which drive waste clearance. 



This disruption could reduce the benefits of sleep and potentially harm long-term brain health.



By understanding these processes, people can make more informed decisions about their sleep habits, such as prioritizing natural, restorative sleep over relying on sleep medications.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/cell/abstract/S0092-8674(24)01343-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell</a>.



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Deep sleep clears toxic waste from the brain

A good night’s sleep does more than help you feel...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Kainji Lake, a reservoir on the Niger River.



In 1968, Kainji Lake was created by the construction of the Kainji Dam. The Niger River, the third longest in Africa, enters the lake in the north.&nbsp;



According to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-in-the-american-west-are-a-lifesaving-resource-for-birds/">ESA</a>, the creation of the lake submerged Foge Island and the town of Bussa and permanently flooded other riverine settlements, leaving around 50,000 people displaced.&nbsp;



Large parts of Foge Island are temporarily exposed during low water tides, and the land is often used by migrating fishermen. Kainji Dam is a dam across the Niger River in Niger State of Central Nigeria. 



Wild mammals occur at relatively low densities due to illegal hunting. Lake Kainji has suffered a dramatic decline as a fishery due to the high numbers of artisanal and subsistence fisherfolk using the lake. It has been suggested that a period of closure, together with controlled fishing rights may help improve fish stocks.



Kainji Lake National Park is the oldest of its kind in Nigeria. The park contains three distinct areas: a part of the Kainji Lake, the Borgu Game Reserve to the west of the lake, and the Zugurma Game Reserve to the southeast. The park is home to around 65 mammal species, 350 bird species, and 30 species of reptiles and amphibians. 



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&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.

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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.

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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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

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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.

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes why experts are studying zebrafish to gain a better understanding of how the immune system responds to injury. Zebrafish have the ability to repair and regenerate organs.



“Organ regeneration offers an exciting opportunity for studying the immune system and to inquire why some species can regenerate organs like the heart or missing limbs while others like humans cannot,” explained Dr. Tatjana Piotrowski.



Zebrafish sensory organ hair cells are an ideal system to investigate the pathways and cell types involved in regeneration since they are easily destroyed with antibiotics and begin regenerating within five hours. This enabled the researchers to identify the exact timing and genetic programs for each anti-inflammatory macrophage activation state.&nbsp;



“Our hypothesis is that human macrophages do not receive the proper chemical activation 'cocktail' to instruct pro-regenerative processes,” said Dr. Nicolas Denans. “Identifying the molecular recipe of macrophage activation in zebrafish may one day enable us to design regenerative immunotherapies in humans.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



“The new evidence is a valuable resource for comparative studies on the genetic programs involved in macrophage-mediated repair and regeneration. In other words, different types of injuries may induce different kinds of inflammatory responses. We want to decipher whether this 'language' is universal or if there are a variety of dialects."



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&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.

How the immune system responds to injury

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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.

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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