Pregnancy is a time when many expectant mothers seek ways to manage discomfort and stress. With growing interest in natural remedies, cannabidiol (CBD), a compound derived from cannabis, has gained popularity as a perceived safe option for nausea, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. 



Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of cannabis, CBD does not produce a high, leading many to assume it poses little to no risk during pregnancy.



Despite this perception, scientific research on the effects of CBD during pregnancy remains limited. Many previous studies have focused on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-use-impacts-working-memory-and-brain-function/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis smoke</a> or THC exposure, leaving CBD largely unexplored. 



A new study from <a href="https://www.mcmaster.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McMaster University</a> challenges these assumptions, revealing concerning links between CBD use and fetal development issues. These findings suggest that CBD, often considered harmless, may have unexpected consequences for both mother and child.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-risks-of-cbd-in-pregnancy">Potential risks of CBD in pregnancy</h2>



A team of researchers at McMaster University investigated the effects of cannabis use during pregnancy, specifically focusing on both CBD and THC. 



The findings, published in eBioMedicine, highlight the potential dangers of oral cannabis consumption from early to mid-pregnancy. 



The study revealed that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-use-during-pregnancy-rewires-the-fetal-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis exposure</a> was associated with impaired fetal growth, changes in the placenta, and behavioral alterations in offspring.



Tyrah Ritchie led the study while completing her master’s degree in the Medical Sciences program at McMaster University.



“The use of cannabis during pregnancy is rising in Canada. Most previous studies focus on exposure to cannabis smoke or just the psychoactive component of cannabis (THC), leaving other cannabis ingredients and methods of consumption understudied," noted Ritchie.



"However, consuming cannabis orally or only using other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-potency-cannabis-use-linked-to-epigenetic-changes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a> ingredients like CBD, is often perceived as safer despite this lack of evidence. Our study is shedding light that there's a possibility that CBD might also be harmful in the pregnancy.”



The study challenges the belief that CBD is a safe alternative to THC during pregnancy. While THC has long been linked to developmental concerns, this research suggests that CBD may also have unintended effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fetal-growth-and-placental-development">Fetal growth and placental development</h2>



The researchers examined how THC and CBD affect fetal development by administering cannabis oil to pregnant mice. 



Their observations revealed that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-and-hallucinogen-use-are-at-historically-high-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis exposure</a> resulted in smaller fetuses compared to those in the control group. This suggests that cannabis compounds may interfere with normal growth, leading to intrauterine growth restriction.



In addition to reduced fetal size, the study found that cannabis impacted the development of blood vessels that supply nutrients to the placenta. 



The placenta plays a crucial role in providing oxygen and nutrients to the developing baby, and any disruption in this process could have serious consequences.



“We did see that both THC and CBD can disrupt a special type of immune cell called a Uterine NK Cell that is crucial in normal development of the placenta," said Ali Ashkar, professor in McMaster’s Department of Medicine and co-leader of the study.



"We also saw poor development of the arteries that help supply blood to the placenta. We're thinking this is what is possibly disrupting the nutrient and oxygen delivery to the baby and contributing to the intrauterine grow restriction.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pregnancy-cbd-and-offspring">Pregnancy, CBD, and offspring</h2>



Beyond physical growth, the study also examined how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemical-found-in-cannabis-plants-can-actually-reduce-cannabis-induced-anxiety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis exposure</a> affects offspring behavior. Researchers monitored the behavior of the mice after birth and discovered changes in aggression, activity levels, and learning ability. 



These findings suggest that exposure to cannabis during pregnancy could have lasting neurological effects on the offspring.



“Oral use of THC and CBD during the pregnancy not only disrupts growth of the baby but seems to have long-term consequences as the babies were found to have changes in their behaviour later in life,” said Ritchie.



Behavioral changes in offspring highlight the possibility of cognitive and emotional challenges that may persist into adulthood. 



The exact mechanisms behind these effects remain unclear, but the findings raise concerns about how cannabis interacts with the developing brain.



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



While this study provides critical insights, researchers emphasize the need for further investigation to fully understand the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recreational-cannabis-use-protects-against-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">risks</a> of CBD use during pregnancy. 



The study was conducted on mice, and while animal models offer valuable information, human studies are necessary to confirm these findings.



Ritchie stresses that the growing trend of cannabis use during pregnancy should be met with caution. Many expectant mothers turn to CBD with the belief that it is safe, but without clear scientific evidence, assumptions about its harmlessness may be misleading.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-cbd-use-during-pregnancy">Rethinking CBD use during pregnancy</h2>



The widespread perception of CBD as a natural and safe remedy has led to its increasing use among pregnant individuals. 



However, this study suggests that CBD may not be as risk-free as commonly thought. The findings indicate that both THC and CBD could interfere with crucial developmental processes, affecting both physical growth and long-term behavior.



Pregnant individuals considering cannabis products should consult healthcare professionals before use. While the study does not provide definitive answers on CBD’s safety for human pregnancies, it does highlight the need for greater awareness and caution.



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



This study was supported by The <a href="https://cannabisresearch.mcmaster.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael G. DeGroote</a> Centre for Medicinal Cancer Research, the <a href="https://cihr-irsc.gc.ca/e/193.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Canadian Institutes of Health Research</a>, and the <a href="https://www.innovation.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Canadian Foundation for Innovation</a>. 



As research in this field continues, scientists aim to explore the specific mechanisms by which cannabis compounds affect pregnancy outcomes.



With increasing cannabis use worldwide, understanding its full impact on pregnancy is more important than ever. Further studies will help clarify the risks, providing expectant mothers with the information they need to make informed choices.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/ebiom/article/PIIS2352-3964(25)00016-7/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EBioMedicine</a>.



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CBD use during pregnancy has unexpected consequences

Pregnancy is a time when many expectant mothers seek ways...

Yerba mate is an herbal tea that ranks among the world’s most popular caffeinated beverages. Beloved in South America for its invigorating properties, this versatile plant contains an abundance of bioactive compounds known to promote various health benefits.&nbsp;



Recently, an international research team achieved a significant milestone: they successfully mapped the yerba mate genome. The study is shedding new light on how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-caffeine-levels-reduce-the-risk-of-diabetes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">caffeine</a> is synthesized in this plant and opening avenues for developing enhanced varieties.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-caffeine-in-yerba-mate">Evolution of caffeine in yerba mate</h2>



The project was led by the <a href="https://www.uba.ar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Buenos Aires</a>, with participation from the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Hamburg and other institutions in Argentina, Brazil, and the United States. 



Through genome analysis, the scientists uncovered surprising insights into yerba mate’s evolutionary history - particularly its pathway for producing caffeine.



“I discovered that an ancestor of yerba had duplicated its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-genome-size-impact-evolutionary-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome</a> approximately 50 million years ago,” said Federico Vignale, the study’s first author and an EMBL Hamburg postdoctoral fellow.&nbsp;



“This ancestral duplication may have been key in the evolution of its metabolic complexity, allowing it to synthesize a wide range of bioactive compounds, such as terpenes, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flavonol-rich-foods-reduce-the-risk-of-developing-frailty/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flavonoids</a>, phenols, and xanthines, known for their antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and nervous system stimulant properties. Of all these compounds, my interest focused on caffeine.”



Although caffeine appears in multiple unrelated plant species such as yerba mate and coffee, the researchers discovered that the genes behind its production do not share a single evolutionary origin.



Adrián Turjanski, the project leader, is a researcher at the Institute of Biological Chemistry in the Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences at the University of Buenos Aires.



“We came to understand in detail that the genes do not have a common ancestor, but come from separate origins, and that both yerba mate and coffee came to have caffeine biosynthesis by evolving along convergent pathways,” said Turjanski.&nbsp;



Because yerba mate and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coffee-flavor-can-be-improved-with-a-simple-trick/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a> independently evolved to produce caffeine, scientists suspect that this compound plays a crucial protective role, potentially defending these plants against insects or other threats.



Through in-depth structural, experimental, and bioinformatic work, the team also showed how yerba mate’s specific route to caffeine biosynthesis sets it apart from coffee.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-insights-into-yerba-mate">Genetic insights into yerba mate</h2>



This genomic breakthrough not only illuminates yerba mate’s past but also hints at a future of optimized cultivation. Armed with precise genetic insights, researchers can now create decaffeinated strains, boost desirable health-promoting compounds, or breed plants adapted to a broader range of environments.



“By reading the genome you would know how to intervene and modify the plant,” Turjanski said. “One could propose making it richer in certain characteristics, for example, a decaffeinated yerba mate, or one that is better adapted to other lands, and thus expand its cultivation.”



These findings establish a foundation for subsequent research efforts, enabling breeders and industry specialists to refine the plant to meet emerging consumer preferences and agricultural demands.



A cultural touchstone



For Vignale, the personal resonance of sequencing yerba mate’s genome runs deep. Beyond the scientific intrigue, yerba mate stands as a defining element of South American life.



“Yerba mate, for me, represents the most beautiful thing about the culture of my home country, Argentina - a drink that unites us, accompanies us, and is present in every moment of our lives,” said Vignale.&nbsp;



“That's why I didn't hesitate for a second to accept the challenge. Sequencing the yerba mate genome felt, in a way, like sequencing Messi's genome.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaboration-across-continents">Collaboration across continents</h2>



Under the direction of the Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences at the University of Buenos Aires, the project integrated expertise from the U.S., Europe, and South America.



To clarify how caffeine biosynthesis differs in yerba mate, EMBL Hamburg contributed structural modeling and molecular docking insights.&nbsp;



Vignale, alongside colleague Lucas Defelipe of EMBL Hamburg’s García Alai Team, played a key role in unraveling the molecular steps in this specialized pathway.



“This experience taught me the true value of interdisciplinary work and to grow together with scientists from different specialties,” Vignale said.



Vignale initially connected with EMBL through <a href="https://www.cabana.online/index" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the CABANA project</a>, an initiative coordinated by Latin American organizations and EMBL-EBI. Funded by the <a href="https://www.ukri.org/what-we-do/browse-our-areas-of-investment-and-support/global-challenges-research-fund/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UKRI Global Challenges Research Fund</a>, CABANA focuses on enhancing bioinformatics capacity across Latin America to tackle challenges in communicable diseases, sustainable food production, and biodiversity.



“The CABANA project has not only strengthened my bioinformatics skills, which were essential for carrying out this research, but it also provided the necessary funding to complete the study,” Vignale added.



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



With its genome now comprehensively mapped, yerba mate stands at the threshold of a new era in cultivation and consumption.&nbsp;



From potential decaffeination to region-specific breeding, the ability to hone the plant’s genetic traits heralds promising developments in agriculture and industry.&nbsp;



As research continues, both farmers and consumers can look forward to innovative strains that retain yerba mate’s cherished cultural significance while expanding its global reach.



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Caffeine evolution in plants: The surprising story of yerba mate 

Yerba mate is an herbal tea that ranks among the...

Cannabidiol (CBD) is emerging as the future of medicinal cannabis, as new research uncovers how it works with brain receptors to affect anxiety and pain management.



Unlike its psychoactive cousin, THC, cannabidiol has the potential for therapy without the high.



Scientists have long hypothesized about CBD's functional mechanisms, but a recent breakthrough has provided new insight into how it fine-tunes key biological processes.



While research on cannabis has intensified recently, there is still much to understand regarding the ways in which the plant components interact in the body.



In a significant advance, researchers have now looked more closely at what is being characterized as a highly complex interplay between CBD and THC that opens new avenues for using the benefits with fewer of the negatives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-introducing-the-power-of-cbd-and-thc">Introducing the power of CBD and THC</h2>



A team of researchers from the <a href="https://olemiss.edu/departments/pharmacy/natural-products-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Mississippi's</a> National Center for Natural Products Research has investigated the complex relationship between cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis.



Their study sheds new light on how these compounds interact with the body's cellular receptors, potentially revolutionizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-women-experience-more-chronic-pain-than-men/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemical-found-in-cannabis-plants-can-actually-reduce-cannabis-induced-anxiety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anxiety</a> treatments.



As demand for CBD products surges in the U.S., following hemp’s decriminalization by the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, it as become critical to understand these interactions.



"The 2018 Farm Bill passage effectively opened a Pandora's box of research challenges," said Amar Chittiboyina, principal scientist and associate director of the Center.



"CBD's use proliferated across a wide spectrum, from pain management and recreational purposes to seemingly endless other applications. However, the fundamental question lies in understanding how CBD works on various targets and exerts its perceived effects at the molecular level," commented Chittiboyina.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-magic-key-cb1-receptor">The magic key: CB1 receptor</h2>



At the core of the study is cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1), a protein that is found throughout the body and regulates pain, mood, appetite, metabolism, and memory.



Both CBD and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prenatal-thc-exposure-linked-to-life-long-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">THC</a> interact with this receptor, but they do so in distinctly different ways.



When THC binds to CB1, it acts like an "off switch" for pain, providing relief but often leading to side effects such as memory loss, nausea, and addiction.



CBD, on the other hand, behaves more like a dimmer switch, as it delicately modulates the receptor’s function.



This newfound understanding paves the way for future research aimed at harnessing the benefits of THC while minimizing its drawbacks.



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



"Often, to mitigate pain, patients combine opiates with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recreational-cannabis-use-protects-against-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a>, kratom, and other substances. Is this approach beneficial or detrimental?" asked Chittiboyina, highlighting the many research opportunities that lie ahead.



The findings could even pave the way for the development of a more efficient, synthetic form of CBD that is designed to optimize receptor interactions while reducing unwanted effects.



This research goes beyond viewing cannabis merely as a drug - it positions the substance as a "treasure chest" of medicinal advances.



"We're trying to pull out the benefits and leave the harms behind," said Robert Laprairie, an associate professor at the <a href="https://www.usask.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Saskatchewan</a>, and co-author of the study.



One of the next research frontiers involves investigating whether CBD interferes with opioids like morphine. 



If CBD negatively interacts with opioid receptors, it could reduce the efficacy of opioids, which is a potential concern for individuals who rely on opioids for pain relief.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cbd-research-s-promising-path">CBD research’s promising path</h2>



While these findings provide a foundation for understanding CBD’s therapeutic potential, the researchers emphasize that further studies are necessary before drawing definitive conclusions.



"But, if we can pinpoint how CBD interacts with multiple targets on a molecular level, we will be in a stronger scientific position to develop solutions that are relevant to public health," the team concluded.



Their discoveries not only deepen our understanding of cannabis compounds but also open doors for targeted drug development aimed at reducing the risks associated with THC and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-discovery-offers-hope-for-tackling-opioid-addiction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">opioids</a>. 



The study marks an important step toward safer and more effective treatment options for those suffering pain and struggling with mood disorders. 



-----



The research was supported by grants from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, the National Science Foundation XSEDE Bridges, and the Mississippi State-sponsored National Center for Cannabis Research and Education.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acschemneuro.4c00343" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Chemical Neuroscience</a>.



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CBD can help ease chronic pain, anxiety, and mood disorders

Cannabidiol (CBD) is emerging as the future of medicinal cannabis,...

Turmeric,Powder,And,Turmeric,Root,On,Wood,,turmeric,Is,Herb.

Turmeric is a flowering plant that is a member of the ginger family. It is well known for its bright yellow color and has long been associated with various perceived health benefits.



Curcumin is the major active ingredient in turmeric, and is responsible for the yellow color of the spice, which is commonly used in Asian cuisine, such as curries, to give a characteristic aroma and rich flavor to the food. 



Apart from its culinary virtues, turmeric has gained popularity for its use in herbal supplements, cosmetics, dyes and food colorants. It is also used worldwide and for its promising wellness attributes.



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



Turmeric owes much of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-coffee-is-missing-these-five-brain-boosting-spices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health-promoting</a> reputation to the presence of the polyphenol known as curcumin.



This bioactive ingredient is responsible for the spice’s distinctive golden hue and is at the heart of its renowned healing properties. 



For centuries, curcumin has been a cornerstone of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/korean-red-ginseng-may-alleviate-alcohol-addiction-study-reveals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Asian traditional medicine</a>, where it has been used to alleviate inflammation, promote digestion, and support overall well-being.



In the modern era, scientists have taken a keen interest in unlocking the full potential of curcumin. 



Extensive research has revealed its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities, which may contribute to a range of health benefits, from supporting immune function to aiding in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-meditation-is-a-powerful-weapon-against-chronic-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain management</a>.



Its possible uses extend to chronic disease prevention, cognitive health, and even athletic performance, making curcumin one of the most studied natural compounds today.



Despite its promise, researchers continue to explore how best to enhance curcumin’s bioavailability to maximize its effectiveness in the human body.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-curcumin-turmeric-and-muscles">Curcumin, turmeric, and muscles</h2>



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.uoc.edu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Universitat Oberta de Catalunya</a> (UOC), particularly the Epi4Health group, have made exciting strides in investigating the effects of curcumin.



They suggest that curcumin could play a vital role in aiding muscle recovery and minimizing pain after an intense bout of physical activity.



“Both pre- and post-exercise curcumin consumption are associated with better outcomes in terms of muscle recovery, reduced pain, and improved antioxidant capacity,” said Daniel Vasile Popescu-Radu, a scholar at UOC.



It appears that our musculoskeletal system might just have found a new ally in curcumin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-faster-recovery-for-athletes">Faster recovery for athletes</h2>



The new research from UOC has introduced the idea that curcumin use may even be beneficial for recovering athletes. 



From reducing muscle damage to easing pain and enhancing antioxidant capacity, curcumin shows potential as a promising ally for sportsmen and women.



The crucial factor, as emphasized by the UOC research team, is getting the dosage, bioavailability, and consumption timing right. 



A daily intake of 1-4 grams of curcumin, particularly after an exercise session, is suggested to aid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ginseng-improves-exercise-performance-and-helps-body-quickly-recover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">muscle recovery</a>. However, expert advice is recommended for optimal results.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-one-size-fits-all-solution">A one-size-fits-all solution? </h2>



While curcumin's potential is undeniably enthralling, the researchers caution against universal application. 



Factors such as an individual's unique metabolism, hormonal effects, intake time, and formulation can influence the effectiveness of this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-tea-delays-biological-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polyphenol substance</a>.



Its absorption and bioavailability can be impacted by other substances present in the blood, or by the type of formulation used.



It's also challenging to extrapolate the findings to specific demographics, like female athletes or individuals undergoing perimenopause and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-health-after-menopause-what-every-woman-should-know/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">menopause</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unlocking-the-full-potential">Unlocking the full potential</h2>



The UOC researchers believe more work is required to consolidate their findings, especially through studies with larger sample sizes. 



Despite the need for more research, they conclude positively about curcumin's potential role in improving the well-being of regular fitness enthusiasts.



Curcumin might just be set to make a grand entrance into the world of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sport-improves-childrens-concentration-and-quality-of-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sports</a> and fitness, with its promise to reduce inflammation and boost antioxidant capacity, among other potential benefits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-turmeric-curcumin-and-future-health">Turmeric, curcumin, and future health</h2>



While curcumin's role in muscle recovery is gaining attention, its potential use goes far beyond the boosting of athletic performance.



Research is continually uncovering its applications in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-mushrooms-contain-substances-that-improve-sleep-mood-and-cognitive-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive health</a>, immune support, and even chronic disease management.



Some studies suggest that curcumin may help regulate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grapes-provide-a-dietary-shield-to-protect-eye-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxidative stress</a>, support heart health, and even play a role in neuroprotection, offering potential benefits for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.



Furthermore, researchers in other fields, such as arthritis treatment and gut health, are beginning to show interest in the potential positive effects of taking curcumin supplements. 



As scientists are refining our understanding of this potent compound, curcumin is set to remain a key player in natural wellness solutions for many years to come.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15502783.2024.2434217" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition</a>.



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Turmeric supplements provide yet another health benefit, according to study

Turmeric is a flowering plant that is a member of...

Chlorella vulgaris is a small species of microalga that is rapidly becoming the new champion in superfoods. It combines high nutritional power with sustainable production methods and may represent a game-changer in terms of global food security.



Could this little green powerhouse be the future of sustainable nutrition? Science is starting to say yes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chlorella-vulgaris-is-a-nutritional-powerhouse">Chlorella vulgaris is a nutritional powerhouse</h2>



This tiny <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-microalgae-show-photosynthesis-is-possible-in-near-darkness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microalga</a> is abundant in freshwater habitats and uses sunlight and carbon dioxide to manufacture its own food, even though its entire body consists of only a single cell. 



Previous <a href="https://www.jstor.org/stable/3106856?origin=crossref">research</a> has found that Chlorella vulgaris cells contain almost 50% protein, along with a healthy supply of fats, carbohydrates, and various vitamins and minerals.



This makes algae a go-to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/algae-may-be-the-future-of-sustainable-superfoods/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superfood</a> for our increasingly health-conscious society. Not only is it rich in nutrients, but its cultivation requires minimal land and water use. 



Thus, it is a way to reduce our environmental footprint while eating without concerns about animal cruelty or damage to the planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-healthy-for-body-and-environment">Healthy for body and environment</h2>



Its environmental friendliness is not the end of its superpowers - it also has antioxidant properties and supports immune function, making it an attractive, nutrient-dense addition to food products.



It is currently marketed on a small scale in tablet and powder form, as a food supplement.



In this current wave of health and eco-conscious awakening, a team of scientists from the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Birmingham</a> have investigated the potential of Chlorella vulgaris as a large-scale source of nutrients for humans.



“Chlorella vulgaris could be one of the superfoods that redefine the future of food innovation,” they state. However, they caution that realizing this potential food revolution will not be without hurdles.



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



The researchers acknowledge the need for further development in various areas. 



From refining cultivation techniques to processing methods that can enhance its appeal to the average consumer's palate, the future is ripe with opportunities for growth. 



“Our study underscores the critical role of applied research in addressing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vaccinating-plants-could-boost-global-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global food security</a> challenges while promoting environmental sustainability,” shared Dr. Helen Onyeaka, a co-author of the study.



The bright future of this microalga is dependent on continued technological advances, which can improve the efficiency of production and broaden its adoption among food producers.



The researchers note that the key to success involves enhancing strains of C. vulgaris using genetic modification and improving cultivation systems. They propose that the development of new culture systems could increase yields and cut costs.



Furthermore, they recommend the use of diverse bioreactors that allow for the tweaking of light and nutrient parameters in order to maximize yield in sterile conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovations-for-a-better-future">Innovations for a better future</h2>



In order to unlock the full potential of Chlorella vulgaris as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-confirms-that-broccoli-is-a-superfood/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mainstream superfood</a>, significant advances in processing and cultivation are essential.



Various techniques, such as mechanical milling and ultrasonication, can significantly increase nutrient accessibility, making this micro-organism's rich protein and vitamin content more bioavailable.



Additionally, advanced techniques such as pulsed electric fields can improve digestibility while retaining the production costs within economically acceptable limits. 



Sensory evaluations and consumer testing play a crucial role in refining the taste and texture of the final products, so that it is palatable and appealing to a wide audience.



As scientists continue to refine these processes, Chlorella vulgaris is poised to transition from a niche supplement to a widely accepted dietary staple that merges nutrition, sustainability, and food security into a single, green solution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chlorella-vulgaris-a-superfood-with-far-reaching-benefits">Chlorella vulgaris: A superfood with far-reaching benefits</h2>



Chlorella vulgaris is not only a promising addition to the food industry but also a powerful tool in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increasing-plant-extinction-threatens-the-future-of-medicine-and-human-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">medicine</a> and environmental sustainability.



Studies suggest it may aid in cholesterol reduction, cancer prevention, and neuroprotection against some diseases, including Alzheimer’s.



Its antioxidant and immune-boosting properties make it a compelling candidate for future medical research.



Additionally, this microalga contributes to sustainability by absorbing carbon dioxide, supporting carbon sequestration, and helping to purify wastewater through its ability to remove heavy metals and toxins. 



With continued research and technological advances, Chlorella vulgaris could become a cornerstone of health, industry, and environmental solutions, paving the way for a more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-inspires-solutions-for-a-sustainable-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable future</a>.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://research.birmingham.ac.uk/en/publications/ichlorella-vulgarisi-as-a-food-substitute-applications-and-benefi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Food Science</a>.



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This unlikely hero is shaping up to be the next big 'superfood'

Chlorella vulgaris is a small species of microalga that is...

In 2020, as human activity came to a standstill, something remarkable happened. Cities fell silent, roads emptied, and industries slowed. While people stayed indoors, Earth’s vegetation took center stage. 



A recent study revealed that 2020 was the greenest year recorded by modern satellite observations from 2001 to 2020. This surge in greenery was particularly evident in northern and temperate regions, while tropical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-green-spaces-are-urgently-needed-across-the-global-south/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a> experienced a brief but noticeable growth period.



The findings raise an intriguing question: Did the pandemic, with its lockdowns and reduced pollution, allow nature to reclaim lost ground? Or were other forces at play?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-vegetation-matters">Why vegetation matters</h2>



Plants do far more than cover the land with greenery. They are central to life on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-fear-climate-change-will-end-the-world-during-their-lifetime/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a>, regulating carbon and water cycles, producing oxygen, and sustaining countless organisms. Vegetation also plays a key role in reducing the impact of fossil fuel emissions by absorbing carbon dioxide.



Monitoring global greening trends helps scientists understand how ecosystems respond to environmental changes. This knowledge can shape conservation strategies and inform efforts to combat climate warming. 



The 2020 green surge provided a unique opportunity to analyze the forces driving Earth's vegetation growth on a global scale.



The study was led by Yulong Zhang, a research scientist in the Division of Earth and Climate Science at Duke University’s <a href="https://nicholas.duke.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nicholas School of the Environment</a>. 



“Terrestrial vegetation, like trees and shrubs, take up carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, so they can offer a natural climate-warming solution,” said Zhang.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-causes-of-2020-s-unusual-earth-s-greening">Causes of 2020’s unusual Earth's greening</h2>



To investigate the phenomenon, researchers analyzed two decades of satellite data, focusing on vegetation density, plant health, and overall structural changes. While the data showed fluctuations in global greening over the years, 2020 stood out as an anomaly.



The researchers considered whether pandemic-related reductions in human activity were responsible. Lockdowns significantly lowered pollution levels, leading to clearer skies and increased sunlight. With fewer industrial emissions and less human disturbance, plants may have received a temporary boost.



However, further analysis showed that lockdowns had only a limited impact on the surge in greenery.



“Although short-term air quality improvements and reduced disturbances slightly boosted greenness in lockdown regions, these effects faded quickly and were further counteracted by natural climate variability as the year progressed,” Zhang explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drivers-of-earth-s-greening">Drivers of Earth's greening</h2>



Instead of lockdowns, the study pointed to broader <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-environments-and-sidewalks-improve-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental factors</a> driving the record-breaking greening. Rising carbon dioxide levels, increasing global temperatures, and reforestation efforts played the most significant roles in the 2020 green surge.



The effect of climate warming was particularly noticeable in temperate and colder regions. In boreal forests, rising temperatures extended the growing season, allowing vegetation to flourish for longer periods. Warmer conditions in these cooler areas provided plants with the opportunity to expand.



Another key factor was large-scale tree planting and land restoration projects. These efforts were especially impactful in China and India, where aggressive afforestation programs contributed to significant greening.



“China and India were massive green hotspots, thanks to tree planting, land restoration and agricultural management efforts,” noted co-author Tong Qiu of the Nicholas School. 



“High rainfall in 2019-2020 also boosted vegetation growth in the tropics, likely linked with climate oscillations, or patterns, such as La Niña and the Indian Ocean Dipole.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-resilience-and-greening-trend">Earth’s resilience and greening trend</h2>



The study highlights Earth’s ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions. Despite human activity and climate challenges, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-must-reconnect-with-nature-now-to-save-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature</a> continues to find ways to thrive. However, this greening trend is not a guarantee of long-term environmental health.



While increased vegetation can help slow climate warming, scientists warn that extreme climate events, water shortages, wildfires, and human pressures could reverse these gains. Greener landscapes today do not necessarily mean a more stable future.



“Climate extremes, water scarcity, wildfire risk and increased human pressures could potentially slow down or even reverse these gains under a warming climate,” said co-author Wenhong Li of the Nicholas School. 



“If that happens, we may see an acceleration of the ongoing climate warming.”



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



As climate change accelerates, scientists stress the importance of continuous monitoring. Understanding how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-must-live-in-harmony-with-nature-to-create-a-sustainable-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a> responds to shifting conditions will be crucial in predicting future environmental changes. 



Advanced models and enhanced satellite data collection will be essential in tracking trends and developing strategies to protect global ecosystems.



The 2020 green surge was a striking reminder of Earth's complexity. While it may have been influenced by multiple factors, the findings reinforce the need for sustainable land management and conservation efforts. 



The future of the planet depends not just on how much greenery we gain, but on how well we maintain the delicate balance between nature and human activity.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0034425724005200?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Remote Sensing of Environment</a>.



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2020 was Earth’s greenest year in two decades - here's why

In 2020, as human activity came to a standstill, something...

Many people have never heard of lutein, yet it has a notable presence in vegetables, fruits, and even egg yolks. This pigmented compound offers multiple health advantages, particularly for vision, though it can play a role in other areas of the body too.



Dr. Karen Robinson from the Institute for the Advancement of Food and Nutrition Sciences led a detailed analysis on the health benefits of lutein. 



“Our review was the first to evaluate the effects of both dietary and supplemental sources of lutein on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-pistachios-daily-proven-to-boost-eyes-vision-and-overall-health/">healthy eyes</a>,” explained Dr. Robinson.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lutein-may-safeguard-eye-health">Lutein may safeguard eye health</h2>



Lutein is classified as a <a href="https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/phytochemicals/carotenoids" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carotenoid</a> with antioxidant properties. It cannot be made by the human body, so it must come from food sources like spinach, kale, and corn.



Experts note that it is found in certain dietary supplements for those who struggle to get enough from meals. Evidence suggests that regular intake might help safeguard eyesight over the long haul.



"Two tissues of the eye that play a key role in the vision process are the macula and the lens. Of all the carotenoids present in the human diet and serum, only two, lutein and zeaxanthin, are present in these two important tissues," researchers noted in the current <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8874683/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-lutein-supports-eye-health">How lutein supports eye health</h2>



Some research indicates that lutein can help people who have difficulty seeing in low light. This guidance aligns with observations of improved night vision once the nutrient becomes a staple in the diet.



Evidence has also <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/6/1721" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shown</a> possible benefits in reducing the likelihood of cataracts by shielding delicate eye tissues from ultraviolet light. It appears to act as a protective layer in the <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23185-macula" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">macula</a>, which is key for healthy sight.



“Daily lutein supplements of 10 mg or more increased macular pigment after 3 months,” said Dr. Robinson. 



Daily amounts of 10 mg or more may support macular pigment in adults who have normal eyes, according to some meta-analyses. 



Researchers have also associated lutein intake with a lower risk of glaucoma, which often arises from increased eye pressure. 



The nutrient’s antioxidant role is potentially very important in lowering the stress that harms the optic nerve.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-and-cognitive-function">Skin and cognitive function</h2>



Lutein’s antioxidant action has been observed in the upper layers of the skin. It may ease harmful changes caused by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/main-cause-of-sunburn-finally-identified-is-rna-damage-not-dna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ultraviolet exposure</a> and preserve the skin’s appearance over time.



There have been intriguing discussions of lutein’s <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6164534/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effect</a> on memory in both younger and older adults. Although research is ongoing, some studies suggest that lutein intake is associated with improved cognitive function. 



The idea of a single compound benefiting both vision and brain health has sparked interest among researchers



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recommended-intake-and-usage">Recommended intake and usage</h2>



Nutrition specialists generally suggest taking between 10 mg and 20 mg of lutein per day, if <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/herbal-supplements-often-contain-hidden-ingredients/">supplements</a> are used. 



Most recommend pairing it with a meal that includes some healthy fat, like olive oil or nuts, since fats help the body absorb carotenoids.



Exact doses can vary, based on individual health goals, so a professional opinion is wise before starting a supplement routine. 



Some individuals prefer getting lutein from spinach, squash, and other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/keeping-leafy-green-vegetables-safe-until-ready-to-eat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">colorful produce</a>, but it can also be found in capsules for convenience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-beyond-eye-health">Benefits beyond eye health</h2>



A growing number of researchers see potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/which-dietary-changes-are-best-for-cancer-prevention/">cancer-preventive</a> links for lutein. Its antioxidant activity helps manage free radicals in cells, which can otherwise damage DNA over time.



Though it is not a cure-all, it often appears in broader discussions about immune function. Experts believe that a balanced diet featuring lutein gives the body a valuable tool in overall wellness.



Including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/keeping-leafy-green-vegetables-safe-until-ready-to-eat/">leafy greens</a>, corn, and egg yolks in meals can boost lutein intake without too much effort. Many of these options also offer protein, fiber, and other nutrients that support holistic health.



Some people wonder about the best time to take a lutein supplement. Professionals often say it’s ideal alongside the biggest meal of the day, especially when that meal contains unsaturated fats.



Lutein is important for supporting normal vision, but it seems to have extra perks for the skin and perhaps the brain. Anyone eager to include it in a daily routine should think about combining dietary and supplemental sources for the best effect.



The study is published in <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8874683/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Advances in Nutrition</a>.



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Vitamin helps prevent cataracts and maintain eye health

Many people have never heard of lutein, yet it has...

Life on Earth is complex and ever-changing. Scientists have long relied on ground-based methods to study biodiversity, but these approaches have limits. Observing ecosystems from space provides a new way to monitor biodiversity across vast landscapes and oceans.



Thanks to advances in satellite technology and aerial imaging, researchers can track changes in biodiversity with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-must-reconnect-with-nature-now-to-save-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greater precision</a>.



A multinational team of scientists, led by <a href="https://www.ucmerced.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Merced</a> civil and environmental engineering Professor Erin Hestir, has taken a major step forward in this field. With funding from NASA, the team launched <a href="https://www.bioscape.io/team" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BioSCape</a>, an ambitious research project designed to measure biodiversity from the sky.



The goal is to test new techniques for tracking life on land and in water, using data collected from aircraft and satellites.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-technology-to-study-biodiversity">Space technology to study biodiversity</h2>



The BioSCape project brought together experts from different disciplines and countries. 



Hestir led the effort alongside <a href="https://www.buffalo.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Buffalo</a> geography Professor Adam Wilson and Professor Jasper Slingsby from the <a href="https://www.uct.ac.za" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cape Town</a>. 



Over six weeks in late 2024, the team gathered critical data in South Africa’s Greater Cape Floristic Region, one of the most ecologically diverse places on Earth.



“Over just six weeks, more than 160 scientists from around the world came together to collect and analyze data across terrestrial, marine and freshwater ecosystems in one of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-biggest-drivers-of-biodiversity-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">world’s biodiversity hotspots</a>,” said Wilson.



The team’s work was not limited to a single approach. They combined data from multiple sources, using both aircraft and on-the-ground research to create a detailed picture of the region’s ecosystems. 



Their efforts have provided new insights into how different species interact, how landscapes change over time, and how environmental factors influence biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-capturing-life-from-the-air">Capturing life from the air</h2>



Three aircraft played a crucial role in the BioSCape project. Two NASA planes and one South African aircraft flew over the Greater Cape Floristic Region, capturing a variety of images. 



These included ultraviolet, visual, and thermal data, which allowed researchers to detect patterns that would be impossible to see from the ground.



“This was NASA’s first ever biodiversity-focused campaign,” Hestir said. “We successfully hit all our measurement targets, and the data collected are contributing to novel techniques and methods to be able to monitor biodiversity from space across the globe. It’s a lot of exciting science.”



By using advanced imaging techniques, the experts gained a new perspective on ecosystems. They could see how plant communities were arranged, how species moved across different environments, and how climate changes affected biodiversity.



This method of data collection provided a powerful tool for studying ecosystems on a large scale.



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



Before investing in a new satellite, scientists must be certain that their instruments will work as expected. Airborne studies allow researchers to test their methods before committing to expensive space missions. 



The BioSCape team used this approach to ensure that their biodiversity monitoring techniques could eventually be adapted for satellite use in space.



“It’s very expensive to launch a satellite into space,” Slingsby said. “You have to be certain it will achieve its mission before taking that step." 



"That’s why we begin with airborne studies - they serve as a critical proving ground. If we can successfully gather data from a plane, it brings us one step closer to understanding how to achieve the same from space.”



The data collected during BioSCape showed that these techniques could work. Scientists now have a roadmap for expanding their research beyond South Africa. If these methods prove successful on a larger scale, future satellites could monitor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-mitigation-strategies-may-be-endangering-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> across the entire planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-developing-strategies-to-protect-biodiversity">Developing strategies to protect biodiversity </h2>



The team chose the Greater Cape Floristic Region as it is known for its extraordinary levels of biodiversity, but it also faces significant conservation challenges. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-action-and-biodiversity-striking-the-right-balance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate change</a>, habitat destruction, and human activity have put many species at risk.



In addition to its ecological importance, the region has a well-developed research community focused on biodiversity conservation. 



By working in this area, the BioSCape team could collaborate with local scientists and build on existing knowledge. The project also contributed valuable data that will support future conservation efforts.



Their findings helped researchers examine changes in species distribution, ecosystem resilience, and the ways in which nature supports human communities. This information is essential for developing effective strategies to protect biodiversity in a rapidly changing world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-access-to-scientific-data">Expanding access to scientific data</h2>



One of the most important aspects of BioSCape is its commitment to sharing information. The team made their data freely available to scientists and the public, ensuring that their findings can be used to support biodiversity research using space-based technology <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-report-calls-for-global-change-to-stop-biodiversity-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">worldwide</a>.



Addressing biodiversity loss requires accurate, up-to-date information. By making their data open-access, the researchers hope to advance conservation efforts and inspire new scientific discoveries. 



The team's methods could lead to better tools for tracking biodiversity, which would help governments, conservation organizations, and communities make informed decisions about protecting the environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-missions-to-improve-biodiversity-tracking">Space missions to improve biodiversity tracking</h2>



BioSCape has already led to new insights, but the team believes this is only the beginning. Their work is building scientific capacity in South Africa and beyond, equipping researchers with the tools needed to monitor biodiversity more effectively.



“BioSCape is building technical capacity in South Africa and we hope to prepare the community to take advantage of NASA’s advanced and freely available satellite imagery to improve conservation,” noted Anabelle Cardoso, the science team manager.



“In a year from now we will have new findings and better insights, advancing cutting-edge technology so we can measure life on Earth from space," said Hestir.



The ability to track biodiversity from space could transform the way scientists study ecosystems. By refining these techniques, researchers can improve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-tracking-is-crucial-for-preserving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> efforts, detect environmental changes more quickly, and gain a deeper understanding of how life on Earth functions.



With the success of BioSCape, the next steps are clear. Expanding these efforts globally could lead to a new era of biodiversity research - one where space-based observations provide crucial data for protecting life on our planet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44185-024-00071-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">npj Biodiversity</a>.



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Changes in Earth’s biodiversity can be tracked from space

Life on Earth is complex and ever-changing. Scientists have long...

A new study has unveiled the far-reaching ecological impact of wolves and other large carnivores in Yellowstone National Park, demonstrating how the reintroduction of predators can trigger dramatic changes in ecosystem dynamics.&nbsp;



By examining 20 years of data (from 2001 to 2020) collected at 25 riparian sites, the research team discovered a staggering 1,500% increase in willow crown volume along streamside areas in northern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-supervolcano-eruption-study-sparks-new-debate-on-where-and-when-it-will-erupt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yellowstone</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-return-of-wolves-in-yellowstone-nbsp">The return of wolves in Yellowstone&nbsp;</h2>



This remarkable recovery is attributed to the cascading effects initiated by the restored large carnivore guild, following the return of wolves in 1995–96, and the subsequent reduction in elk populations that had previously overbrowsed the vegetation.



The study, led by William J. Ripple of <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a> and the <a href="https://consbio.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Conservation Biology Institute</a> provides one of the most compelling examples yet of a trophic cascade - a process where predators indirectly influence vegetation by regulating herbivore behavior and abundance.&nbsp;



In this case, the dramatic growth of willows, used as a proxy for aboveground biomass, offers a clear metric of the ecological recovery underway in Yellowstone.



“Our findings emphasize the power of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/apex-predators-can-help-restore-ecosystems-but-not-immediately/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators</a> as ecosystem architects,” said Ripple. 



“The restoration of wolves and other large predators has transformed parts of Yellowstone, benefiting not only willows but other woody species such as aspen, alder, and berry-producing shrubs. It’s a compelling reminder of how predators, prey, and plants are interconnected in nature.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unleashing-the-trophic-cascade">Unleashing the trophic cascade</h2>



The ecological phenomenon documented in Yellowstone is a textbook example of a trophic cascade. When <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-return-of-the-gray-wolf-triumph-or-tragedy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wolves</a> were extirpated from the park by the 1920s, elk populations surged, leading to overbrowsing and severe degradation of riparian vegetation.&nbsp;



This suppression not only diminished willow growth but also adversely affected other woody plants and the overall habitat quality in these crucial areas.&nbsp;



With the reintroduction of wolves and other large carnivores in the mid-1990s, elk numbers and behaviors were altered, allowing vegetation - especially willows - to rebound dramatically.



Using willow crown volume as a three-dimensional indicator of vegetation recovery, the study quantitatively measured the significant resurgence of riparian habitats.&nbsp;



Notably, the strength of this trophic cascade in Yellowstone is reported to surpass 82% of the strengths observed in a global synthesis of similar studies, highlighting the exceptional nature of the recovery process in this iconic landscape.&nbsp;



Yet, the researchers also noted that recovery varied considerably among sites, reflecting the complexity and spatial heterogeneity of natural systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-riparian-zones-crucial-biodiversity-hotspots">Riparian zones: Crucial biodiversity hotspots</h2>



Although riparian areas comprise only a small fraction of the western United States’ landscape, they are vital for biodiversity. 



These zones offer critical resources and habitat for a wide array of wildlife, linking upland and aquatic ecosystems and supporting a diversity of species that may not thrive elsewhere. 



The resurgence of willow growth is not merely an isolated botanical event; it plays a key role in restoring the integrity of entire riparian ecosystems, thereby benefiting birds, mammals, and other organisms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wolves-and-yellowstone-ecosystem-recovery">Wolves and Yellowstone ecosystem recovery</h2>



The study’s robust findings are based on an extensive, multi-decade dataset that captured the gradual but profound changes in riparian vegetation over time.&nbsp;



By employing willow crown volume as a measurable indicator, the researchers were able to directly link the restoration of large carnivores to ecosystem recovery. This method offers a powerful tool for evaluating trophic cascade strength and can potentially be applied to similar ecological studies elsewhere.



“Our analysis of a long-term data set simply confirmed that ecosystem recovery takes time. In the early years of this trophic cascade, plants were only beginning to grow taller after decades of suppression by elk. But the strength of this recovery, as shown by the dramatic increases in willow crown volume, became increasingly apparent in subsequent years,” said Robert Beschta, an emeritus professor at Oregon State University.&nbsp;



“These improving conditions have created vital habitats for birds and other species, while also enhancing other stream-side conditions.”



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



This research not only highlights the importance of predator restoration for revitalizing degraded ecosystems but also provides critical insights for conservation strategies worldwide. 



The dramatic improvement in riparian vegetation in Yellowstone serves as a powerful reminder that restoring natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-predator-prey-feast-ever-seen-in-the-ocean-enormous-quickly-altered-food-chain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predator-prey dynamics</a> can have cascading benefits that extend to every level of the ecosystem.&nbsp;



As the study demonstrates, such processes are integral to maintaining biodiversity, ecosystem resilience, and the overall health of our natural landscapes.



By quantifying the recovery of willows, the study paves the way for further exploration into how the reintroduction of large carnivores can be harnessed to promote ecosystem restoration in other parts of the world.&nbsp;



As conservationists and policymakers seek effective strategies to mitigate the impacts of human activities and climate change, Yellowstone’s example offers both hope and a proven roadmap for the transformative power of nature’s own regulatory mechanisms.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2025.e03428" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Ecology and Conservation</a>.



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Wolves are rebuilding forests and restoring ecosystem balance in Yellowstone

A new study has unveiled the far-reaching ecological impact of...

Emissions from coal combustion are casting a shadow over India's agricultural sector, and threatening the nation’s role as a major hub for global food security.



As the world’s second-most populous country, India relies heavily on rice and wheat production to sustain its population and export markets. However, pollutants from coal-fired power stations are having a negative impact on crop yields.



According to a recent study, coal emissions may be responsible for a significant decrease (of 10% or more) in the annual yield of these two staple grains. This means that the nutritional security of a quarter of the world’s undernourished population could be threatened.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-trade-offs-of-coal-emissions">The trade-offs of coal emissions</h2>



The goal of the study was not merely to highlight a problem, but to navigate the complexities of India's energy demands in connection with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/locust-swarms-threaten-food-security-for-millions-of-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food security</a>.



Study lead author Kirat Singh, a Ph.D. student in environment and resources in the <a href="https://sustainability.stanford.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Doerr School of Sustainability</a>, described the motivation for this study.



"We wanted to understand the impact of India's coal electricity emissions on its agriculture because there might be real trade-offs between meeting growing electricity demand with coal generation and maintaining food security," said Singh. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-coal-emissions-for-better-harvests">Reducing coal emissions for better harvests</h2>



Considerable effort has been devoted in the past to quantify the health-related repercussions of burning coal for electricity. 



However, prior to this study, the specific implications for crop production - especially in relation to India's dependence on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coal-fired-power-generation-weakened-by-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coal-fired</a> power stations for more than 70% of its electricity - were left unexplored.



"Crop productivity is incredibly important to India's food security and economic prospects," noted study senior author David Lobell. 



"We've known that improved air quality could help agriculture, but this study is the first to drill down to a specific sector and measure the potential benefits of reducing emissions." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deeper-insight-into-crop-damage">Deeper insight into crop damage</h2>



The study was focused on nitrogen dioxide (NO2) emissions from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-breakthrough-g7-commits-to-close-coal-plants-by-2035/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coal-powered</a> stations, and evaluated their impact on rice and wheat production.



By compiling data from electricity generation at 144 power stations across India, wind direction records, and satellite-measured nitrogen dioxide levels over croplands, the researchers provided a detailed picture of the situation.



According to their findings, eliminating pollution from burning coal during vital growing seasons could potentially increase the value of the rice output by approximately $420 million and the wheat output by $400 million annually.



“Any policy focused on reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-co2-emissions-reached-unprecedented-highs-in-2021/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a> from coal power plants in India will be ignoring a crucial part of the problem if it does not consider the damages from air pollution to agriculture," said Inês Azevedo, a co-author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unseen-benefits-of-cutting-coal-emissions">Unseen benefits of cutting coal emissions</h2>



The findings indicate that reducing coal emissions may yield more substantial and widely distributed benefits than previously recognized.



While past studies have primarily focused on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-increases-the-risk-of-cardiopulmonary-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health hazards of air pollution</a>, this study highlights the importance of considering agricultural damage as well.



The analysis showed that, while the monetary value of lost crop output is generally lower than the mortality damage caused by coal emissions, the intensity of crop damage per unit of electricity generated can be even higher.



At 58 of the 144 power stations studied, rice yield losses per gigawatt-hour exceeded mortality damages, and at 35 stations, wheat damage followed the same pattern. 



This suggests that, in many regions, targeted reductions in coal emissions could provide more immediate relief to agricultural productivity than previously assumed.



“It’s rare to find a single thing - in this case, reducing coal emissions - that would help agriculture so quickly and so much,” said Lobell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-production-and-public-health">Food production and public health</h2>



Moreover, the findings indicate little overlap between the power stations causing the most severe crop losses and those linked to the highest mortality rates. 



This means that well-placed policy interventions could optimize benefits, and deliver significant increases in food production along with improvements in public health and climate change mitigation.



By considering crop losses alongside health impacts when regulating coal electricity emissions, policymakers could unlock a powerful opportunity for economic and environmental gains. 



“Well-targeted policies to cut emissions could deliver thousands of dollars of increased crop output for each clean gigawatt-hour, in addition to all the climate and human health benefits,” said Singh.



Ultimately, the study reinforces the need for a more integrated approach to energy and environmental policy - one that fully accounts for the multifaceted benefits of reducing coal pollution.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2421679122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Coal emissions threaten India's food security

Emissions from coal combustion are casting a shadow over India's...

Science lovers across Europe are buzzing about a new, record-breaking discovery. It’s a shrub, not a towering tree, that holds the title of the continent’s oldest woody plant.



This tiny juniper, found in Finnish Lapland, measures around four inches across its trunk. Researchers say it’s 1,647 years old, making it <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/older-trees-help-the-endangered-wolf-lichen-survive/">older than any known tree</a> in Europe.



An international research team led by <a href="https://intra.tesaf.unipd.it/carrer/Marco_Carrer_CV.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marco Carrer</a>, forest ecologist at the Department of Territory and Agroforestry Systems of the University of Padua, confirmed these findings. 



They also highlight that this shy-looking plant has surpassed existing records by more than four centuries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-significance-of-old-shrubs">The significance of old shrubs</h2>



Many people envision centuries-old giants when they think of ancient woody life. Yet shrubs, like the <a href="https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/trees-and-plants/common-juniper/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">common juniper</a>, can endure through the extremes of climate, and illustrate how adaptation and survival can span more than a thousand years.



Shrubs in challenging environments often face harsh weather, limited nutrients, and slow growth. Their longevity may be a key to understanding how plants adapt to rapid global changes.



Several previous reports have noted exceptionally old shrub individuals from localities as diverse as the Tibetan Plateau and the Mediterranean. They are also sometimes found living in harsh conditions at high altitudes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-closer-look-at-juniper">A closer look at juniper</h2>



The common juniper tree is the most widely distributed conifer species in the world. It's trunks can reveal clues about past environmental shifts and weather events. 



“We study wood rings from which we extract precious information about climate change and vegetation development,” said <a href="https://www.unipd.it/en/yr-msca-prendin" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Angela Luisa Prendin</a>, one of the authors of the study paper.



“However, when you go to the far north, trees give way to smaller plants,” she noted. Her team decided to focus on this particular, low-lying juniper species and to investigate its fascinating growth rings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-the-new-record-matters">Why the new record matters</h2>



“The <a href="https://brill.com/display/title/17009?language=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">common juniper</a> is known to everyone as a spice in the kitchen or an ingredient in the production of gin,” said Carrer. It might not look majestic, but its longevity is rewriting what we know about the upper limits of shrub life.



“From today, this record is also added to that of being the oldest shrub in the world,” said Carrer. The hardy nature of this plant helps it thrive in diverse habitats, from glacial regions to scorching dunes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-a-changing-climate">Navigating a changing climate</h2>



Scientists <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/6/4/045509" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">suggest</a> that rising temperatures may lead to the northward dispersal of tree populations, which will put pressure on established shrubs. 



In some areas, though, harsher conditions could favor shrubs if trees struggle to survive with limited resources.



Shrubs have already expanded in certain high-latitude spots, reflecting a unique interplay between warming trends and local ecosystem limits. 



Still, older junipers stand firm against many environmental twists, establishing their place as strong survivors in these habitats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-window-into-past-climates">A window into past climates</h2>



Dendrochronology, the study of annual growth rings in woody plants, isn’t limited to towering trunks. Even a small juniper stem can show centuries of environmental records etched into its wood.



Such data can help researchers pinpoint past temperature fluctuations, precipitation patterns, and extreme events. 



By comparing <a href="https://www.ltrr.arizona.edu/~ellisqm/outgoing/dendroecology2014/readings/Grissino_mayer_COFECHA_2001.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ring widths</a>, they identify specific years that may have brought unusual cold snaps or droughts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-small-giants">Protecting small giants</h2>



Unlike many iconic old-growth forests, these shrubs often go unnoticed and unprotected. With warming trends and shifting ecological boundaries, conservationists worry that ancient junipers could be squeezed out.



Once they disappear, centuries of subtle ecological memories vanish with them. <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9303657/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Experts</a> believe careful monitoring and protection strategies can ensure they remain part of the landscape.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-legacy-worth-celebrating">A legacy worth celebrating</h2>



This record-breaking discovery speaks to the patience and persistence of nature. The shrub may be small, but it carries a long story of survival.



As scientists keep uncovering new details, these ancient individuals may rewrite our understanding of longevity in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-are-uniquely-adapted-to-withstand-harsh-winter-climates/">harsh climates</a>. 



The study is published in <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11751590/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology</a>.



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Tiny shrub holds the record for Europe's oldest tree

Science lovers across Europe are buzzing about a new, record-breaking...

It sits at the tail end of our digestive system and measures around 5 feet long by 2.5 inches across. The colon is responsible for absorbing water, maintaining hydration levels, and managing waste before it leaves the body.



Recent research has highlighted certain fruits that can support <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/western-diet-identified-as-major-cause-of-colon-cancer/">colon health</a>. The apple emerged as a standout because of its potential to promote a healthier gut and help maintain balanced gut flora.



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



The colon’s structure includes four segments that work together to finalize digestion. Issues like constipation or diarrhea can result when any part of this complex pathway is disturbed.



Colon-related illnesses can display symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, or visible blood in stool. Certain screenings like colonoscopy can detect cancers or irregularities at an early stage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-apples-draw-attention">Why apples draw attention</h2>



Apples pack a high dose of pectin, which has properties that might diminish gastrointestinal inflammation. These fibers also seem to encourage healthy bacterial growth in the intestines.



Research has shown that including apples in a regular diet may result in reduced cholesterol and better weight control. This benefit ties back to the apple’s soluble fiber, which is thought to slow fat absorption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-insights-on-fiber">Scientific insights on fiber</h2>



A study on fiber-enriched botanicals highlighted how these compounds contribute to digestive health by promoting gut motility and supporting beneficial bacteria. In apples, this type of fiber sweeps through the digestive system, pushing out unwanted substances along the way.



“The fiber is usually a nondigestible polysaccharide that is not digested in the human body,” explained Dr. Khalid, the study's lead author from Government College University in Faisalabad. 



Fiber’s role in colon function has been studied for its link to improved bowel regularity. It also appears to help in stabilizing blood sugar and supporting cardiovascular health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-juice-based-diet-and-gut-health">Juice-based diet and gut health</h2>



Another <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5438379/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> on the effects of a vegetable and fruit juice-based diet found notable changes in gut microbiota, metabolism, and overall health.&nbsp;



The researchers tracked participants consuming only vegetable and fruit juices. The results showed a significant decrease in weight and body mass index - demonstrating the potential impact of plant-based nutrients on digestion and weight regulation.



Although apples were not singled out in the juice-based experiment, the key takeaway remains that fruit-rich regimens can shift gut bacteria. These shifts often coincide with reductions in overall body mass.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-anti-inflammatory-angle">The anti-inflammatory angle</h2>



Inflammatory bowel disease can cause tremendous discomfort and disrupt daily life. A study on dietary interventions for IBD identified the anti-inflammatory diet as a promising strategy for managing symptoms and supporting gut health.



Apples, with their pectin and plant compounds, could complement such approaches. They may lessen the impact of irritants in the digestive tract and reduce flare-ups in some individuals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-of-dried-fruits">Potential of dried fruits</h2>



Fruits play a vital role in gut health, whether consumed fresh or dried. A <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10097306/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> on the health effects of dried fruits found limited evidence suggesting that dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, dates, prunes) may positively influence gut microbiota composition. 



Apples in their dried form carry nutrients that could still be valuable. People seeking a portable option could find dried apples handy if they stay mindful of portion sizes.



Each person’s digestive system has unique sensitivities, so it’s wise to start slow with fiber-rich fruits. Switching to a high-fiber diet too quickly may cause bloating or abdominal discomfort.



It’s also important to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-water-is-the-key-to-a-long-and-healthy-life/">drink enough water</a> to keep everything moving along. Staying hydrated can help the colon effectively manage any uptick in fiber.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simple-ways-to-include-apples">Simple ways to include apples</h2>



Having an apple as a midday snack or pairing it with a meal can be a small step toward better digestive health. Apple slices can be blended into a morning smoothie or eaten with peanut butter.



Baked apple slices are a sweeter treat that still contains much of the fruit’s natural fiber. These small additions can fit easily into a regular daily routine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fruit-for-a-healthy-colon">Fruit for a healthy colon</h2>



Apples are not a cure-all, yet they align with research pointing to benefits of fruit-based diets. Combined with regular checkups, they can be part of a measured effort to keep things running smoothly.



Routine screenings remain essential for catching possible complications early. Listening to the body’s signals and consulting with professionals are key for anyone looking to fine-tune their digestive wellness.



A balanced diet that includes apples might be more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegetables-prevent-colon-cancer/">helpful for colon</a> function than many realize. The fiber, water content, and protective compounds within this fruit may do more for the gut than just satisfying hunger.



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This fruit is ideal for cleansing the colon, according to experts

It sits at the tail end of our digestive system...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Controlled fires can help us save grasslands from disappearing

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

In a world where reproductive health is becoming an increasingly important topic, scientists are constantly exploring new ways to address challenges related to fertility. One recent discovery is resveratrol, a natural compound found in common foods like grapes, blueberries, and raspberries.



This polyphenolic compound has long been celebrated for its anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. However, recent research suggests that its potential extends far beyond <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healing-chronic-wounds-with-gold-and-red-wine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">general wellness</a>. 



A systematic review published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences sheds light on how resveratrol could play a pivotal role in improving female fertility. This discovery opens up exciting possibilities for women seeking natural solutions to enhance their reproductive health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-resveratol-on-female-fertility">Impact of resveratol on female fertility</h2>



The researchers analyzed data from 24 studies, which included a total of 9,563 human participants. Among these, four studies specifically examined the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moderate-wine-consumption-reduces-cardiovascular-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact of resveratrol</a> on the number of matured oocytes. 



Two reported an increase, while the other two found no significant changes. On the other hand, two studies focusing on the quality of matured oocytes showed improvements in women who <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-polyphenols-promote-heart-health-youthful-skin-and-a-healthy-waistline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consumed resveratrol</a>. 



These findings point to the compound's potential to enhance reproductive health naturally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-resveratrol-support-fertility">How does resveratrol support fertility?</h2>



One possible explanation for resveratrol's positive effects lies in its ability to reduce oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is known to damage mitochondrial DNA and accelerate cellular aging. 



By protecting against this damage, resveratrol may help preserve the integrity of oocytes and extend ovarian lifespan. Additionally, the compound activates sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), a molecule that tends to decrease in aged oocytes. This activation could slow down cell aging and improve overall <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wine-production-in-a-warming-world-the-winners-and-losers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reproductive function</a>.



Beyond its effects on oocyte quality, the review also explored resveratrol's potential in addressing specific fertility challenges. 



For instance, it may offer benefits for women dealing with infertility caused by endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or obesity-related issues. 



By inhibiting pathways involved in androgen production and reducing inflammation, resveratrol could provide a natural approach to managing these conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mixed-results-on-miscarriage-rates">Mixed results on miscarriage rates</h2>



While the findings are encouraging, the review also revealed inconsistencies in data related to pregnancy and miscarriage rates. 



Among five studies that examined pregnancy outcomes, two reported an increase in pregnancy rates among women taking resveratrol, two found no difference, and one noted a decrease. 



Interestingly, the same study that observed a decline in pregnancy rates also reported a rise in miscarriage rates. Another study, however, found no significant changes in miscarriage occurrences. 



These mixed results highlight the need for more comprehensive research to fully understand the compound's effects on reproductive outcomes.



Resveratrol is generally regarded as safe when consumed in moderate amounts through diet or supplements, with doses up to five grams per day considered acceptable for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-red-wine-gives-some-people-a-headache/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">short-term use</a>. 



However, the long-term safety of high-dose supplementation remains uncertain, particularly concerning potential risks during pregnancy.



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



Lee Smith, professor of public health at Anglia Ruskin University (<a href="https://www.aru.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ARU</a>) and senior author of the paper, emphasized the importance of cautious optimism.



“Our systematic review on resveratrol and female fertility is a comprehensive overview of all current research, and it highlights the compound’s potential to improve reproductive outcomes and possibly pave the way for new, less invasive treatments, using natural substances,” he stated. 



However, Professor Smith also pointed out the limitations of the current evidence.



“Our findings are based on a number of limitations, including the limited number of human studies, the different parameters of each study and the lack of robust data on dosage and side effects, particularly related to birth defects or foetal abnormalities,” Smith explained. 



“There is a need for further clinical trials, involving human participants, in order to translate these promising results into practical recommendations for women looking to improve their fertility, including guidance on the safe and effective dosage of resveratrol.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resveratrol-and-female-fertility">Resveratrol and female fertility</h2>



The potential of resveratrol to support female fertility represents an exciting avenue for future exploration. 



If ongoing and future studies confirm its benefits, this natural compound could offer a less invasive and more accessible option for women seeking to enhance their reproductive health. 



For now, researchers urge patience and continued investigation to ensure that any recommendations are grounded in solid, reliable evidence. As science progresses, resveratrol may emerge as a valuable tool in the journey toward improved fertility.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/25/23/12792" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Journal of Molecular Sciences</a>. 



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Resveratrol in grapes and wine may naturally boost female fertility

In a world where reproductive health is becoming an increasingly...

Scientists have found that insect frass - a blend of excreta, feed, and molted skins - is far from a mere waste product. Instead, it could play a key role in advancing greener, more sustainable agriculture.



The study was focused on "mini-livestock," including the humble yellow mealworm, the bouncy banded cricket, and the robust black soldier fly.



Often underestimated, these insects are being cultivated as an alternative protein source for animals, playing a crucial role in the shift toward more sustainable agricultural practices. However, what they leave behind may be just as valuable - if not more - than the protein they provide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insect-frass-more-than-just-waste">Insect frass: More than just waste</h2>



Insect frass is a nutrient-rich byproduct of insect farming. In contrast to regular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/beer-byproducts-and-manure-used-to-increase-crop-yields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">manure</a>, frass is inherently pathogen-poor and rich in nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon.



The nutrients in insect frass make it a promising organic fertilizer that can augment soil health and plant growth without reliance on synthetic fertilizers. This finding sets the stage for a game-changing shift in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/farmers-adopt-regenerative-agriculture-better-soil-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agriculture</a>.



In previous studies, a team of researchers led by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ars.usda.gov/">Agricultural Research Service</a>&nbsp;(ARS) set out to explore the potential benefits of insect frass. 



The results showed that frass can compete with fossil fuel-based fertilizers with its higher carbon and nitrogen content, while being less pathogenic than other animal manures.



Collaborating with partners from the <a href="https://uada.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture</a>, the ARS team further studied the potential of frass as an organic fertilizer when used as a soil amendment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-proof-is-in-the-soil">The proof is in the soil</h2>



The researchers embarked on an intense two-year field study. The results were quite astounding.



Yellow mealworm frass demonstrated impressive capabilities. It managed to double the soil's carbon content while tripling its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-has-too-much-and-too-little-nitrogen-at-the-same-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nitrogen</a> content.



This was significantly higher compared to other sources such as poultry litter and ammonium nitrate. Most importantly, the frass-enriched soil produced similar crop yields and carbon dioxide emission rates.



"Insect frass substantially improved soil fertility which showed its ability to be used as an alternative to inorganic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carbon-emissions-from-fertilizers-could-be-cut-by-80-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fertilizers</a>," said Amanda Ashworth, a soil scientist at the ARS Poultry Production and Product Safety Research Unit in Fayetteville, Arkansas. 



"This is important since insect farming is on the rise and circular agricultural systems (agricultural by-products that are recycled back into production systems) can be sustainable avenues for growing foods in the future."



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



The question is, are we ready to embrace this change? As the world witnesses an increased demand for sustainable protein sources, the insect farming industry is experiencing a surge in growth. 



According to the Global Edible Insects Market Forecast to 2030 report, the industry is set to grow at an annual pace of 28%, with an anticipated market value of $8 billion U.S. dollars by 2030.



Insect frass stands as a powerful catalyst for change, moving us towards a greener future. It promises a sustainable alternative in agriculture - one that makes use of waste to enhance our environment and feed our growing populations.



The research shows that insect frass is not just waste - it's a potential goldmine, waiting to be discovered and harnessed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insect-frass-and-regenerative-farming">Insect frass and regenerative farming</h2>



As the agricultural industry shifts toward more eco-friendly practices, insect frass is being recorgnized as an important player in regenerative farming. 



In contrast to traditional fertilizers, which can degrade the soil and contaminate water, insect frass promotes microbial activity and improves soil structure. 



This natural byproduct not only replenishes essential nutrients but also supports long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-soils-produce-a-symphony-of-sounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil health</a> by promoting beneficial bacteria and fungi.



With fears of fertilizer shortages and environmental damage due to synthetic alternatives looming, insect frass presents a promising alternative.



So far, farmers who have embraced this organic amendment are reporting greater crop resilience, reduced chemical input dependence, and soil biodiversity improvements. 



As research continues, insect frass may ultimately transform the way food is grown, making agriculture not only more productive but truly sustainable.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-87075-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Future of farming: Insect waste reshapes soil health

Scientists have found that insect frass - a blend of...

Predicting and mitigating the effects of climate change while preserving biodiversity is a top priority for both scientists and policymakers. As climate change intensifies, leading to more frequent and severe droughts, understanding the impact on plant ecosystems has become increasingly important. 



One of the main challenges is forecasting changes in species richness due to shifts in precipitation patterns. 



While it’s established that regions with more water generally support greater plant diversity, results vary at smaller plot levels concerning how rainfall affects species richness.



To improve predictions, it’s essential to explore the underlying mechanisms - particularly how intense droughts and long-term rainfall changes impact <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-talks-on-the-drought-crisis-end-without-agreement/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>.



A new study shows that increased aridity at the plot level is indeed linked to a decrease in plant species richness, and this connection is even more pronounced following extreme droughts. 



However, this phenomenon is not easy to detect because in the absence of drought, dominant plant species can obscure this effect.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rainfall-drought-and-plant-diversity">Rainfall, drought, and plant diversity</h2>



Experts at the <a href="https://ecolres.hun-ren.hu/en/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HUN-REN Centre for Ecological Research</a> in Hungary examined the intricate connections between long-term changes in rainfall, extreme drought conditions, the biomass of dominant plant species, and plant species diversity in a dryland ecosystem.



The research reveals that increased dryness leads to a reduction in plant species diversity in drylands and uncovers the mechanisms through which rising aridity contributes to biodiversity loss in these fragile <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-now-the-driving-force-behind-droughts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a>.



Using data from a seven-year climate change field experiment, the researchers conducted a path analysis to examine how precipitation influences species diversity, both directly and indirectly. 



The experiment simulated an extreme drought event followed by long-term variations in summer rainfall with the use of rainout shelters.



Initial analysis showed a strong positive relationship between rainfall and species diversity after extreme drought treatment, but this effect was absent without drought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dominant-plant-species-and-droughts">Dominant plant species and droughts</h2>



Interestingly, the path analysis uncovered another layer. In the absence of drought, increased rainfall boosted the biomass of dominant grass species, leading to a decrease in overall <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/megadroughts-are-becoming-more-frequent-and-severe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant diversity</a>.



Nevertheless, the direct effect of rainfall remained positive, enhancing species richness even when dominant species exerted a suppressive impact. Additionally, the study revealed that past extreme droughts strengthened the link between rainfall and species diversity. 



“Droughts weaken dominant species, creating opportunities for other plants to thrive, potentially altering the plant community,” explained study lead author Dr. Gábor Ónodi.



The findings highlight the complex interactions between rainfall, dominant species, and biodiversity. 



The research shows that while rainfall can boost plant diversity, its benefits are often mediated by the presence of dominant species that can suppress others.



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



The findings have significant implications for predicting how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-persistent-droughts-will-impact-wildlife-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural ecosystems</a> will respond to future climate change.



“As global temperatures rise and precipitation patterns become more extreme, ecosystems may become increasingly sensitive to changes in water availability,” noted Dr. György Kröel-Dulay, the lead researcher.



The study highlights the importance of considering both direct and indirect effects when evaluating the impact of climate change on biodiversity.



“By deepening our understanding of these dynamics, we can better anticipate upcoming challenges and develop more effective strategies for conserving biodiversity in a world facing growing environmental uncertainties,” said senior author Dr. Zoltán Botta-Dukát.



This research serves as a valuable step toward understanding how ecosystems might adapt to changing climates and what measures can be taken to protect their rich diversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-forward-with-conservation-efforts">Moving forward with conservation efforts</h2>



The insights gained from this study provide a clearer picture of how climate change affects <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-drought-has-caused-crisis-levels-of-food-and-water-scarcity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>, particularly in dryland ecosystems. 



By examining the interplay between rainfall, drought, and dominant plant species, scientists can begin to identify patterns that may help predict future ecological shifts. Such knowledge is crucial for developing strategies to safeguard biodiversity as global climates continue to evolve.



The work of the HUN-REN Centre for Ecological Research highlights the need for continued investigation into the complex relationships within ecosystems. 



As the planet faces increasing environmental uncertainties, studies like this offer hope for finding ways to preserve the natural world for future generations.



The study is published in the <a href="https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1365-2745.14483" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Ecology</a>. 



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Plant diversity threatened by reduced rainfall and drought

Predicting and mitigating the effects of climate change while preserving...

Hummingbird flower mites are tiny hitchhikers with an electrifying secret. These minuscule arachnids have developed a remarkable survival strategy.



A new study reveals that the mites use static electricity generated by their hummingbird chauffeurs to leap from one flower to another.



The remarkable relationship between the mites and hummingbirds has puzzled researchers for years. 



In particular, scientists have questioned what determines the moment that the mites choose to hop onto or off of a hummingbird. This is a crucial part of the mites' survival, as it enables them to transition from flower to flower for sustenance and reproduction.



After years of speculation and study, researchers may have finally found the answer.



It all started with Carlos Garcia-Robledo, an associate professor in the <a href="https://eeb.uconn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology</a>, who noted that the mites seemingly preferred the first flower that a hummingbird visited. This observation led him to question why the mites were not hopping onto second or third flowers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-static-electricity-helps-mites-jump">Static electricity helps mites jump</h2>



Initially, the scientific community speculated that some kind of smell signal influenced the mites. However, after conducting experiments, Garcia-Robledo felt there had to be another explanation.



“I knew that it was not maybe the smell that played a major role in this because if you bring the mites to a laboratory, they don’t care much about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flower-smells-like-dead-insects-to-attract-coffin-flies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smells of flowers</a> and so on. I knew it had to be something else,” he said.



The turning point came after Garcia-Robledo read a study about ticks and static electricity. An idea clicked. 



“Maybe something electrostatic was happening there. These mites are so tiny that they live at another level of perception, so of course, even little electric fields are important for them. This could help explain the mystery of how they can be fast enough to hitchhike on this family of birds,” he noted.



Armed with this new idea, Garcia-Robledo collaborated with Konstantine Manser, a Ph.D. student at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>, and Diego Dierick, a scientist at the <a href="https://tropicalstudies.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Organization for Tropical Studies</a>. The team quickly constructed simple devices to test their theory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unveiling-the-mite-s-electric-path">Unveiling the mite's electric path</h2>



To their astonishment, the results were immediate and compelling. The researchers observed that the mites reacted to the static electricity.



“We turned on the device, and instantaneously, they started to respond. That’s how we figured out that they were using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mystery-of-static-electricity-has-finally-been-solved/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">static electricity</a>,” explained Garcia-Robledo.



Further testing revealed that the mites were not just responding to static electricity but to a specific frequency of the electric field. 



“The mites respond to the bouncing of a signal that is associated with the size, geometry, and vibration of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hummingbirds-have-an-amazing-sense-of-touch-for-precise-navigation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hummingbirds</a>, which reach frequencies between 20 and 160 Hz,” noted Garcia-Robledo.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-mites-sense-different-signals">Different mites sense different signals</h2>



These discoveries have opened a new chapter in our understanding of hummingbird flower mites.



Each of the 19 mite species at La Selva demonstrates a unique preference for specific flowers and has unique structures in their legs that potentially allow them to detect different electrical frequencies.



“We think that there may be some specificity in the electric signals or different charges for flowers,” noted Garcia-Robledo.



As we continue to unravel the mysteries of hummingbird flower mites, we are reminded of the complex and little-understood ways in which life adapts and thrives.



In these tiny hitchhikers, we find another reflection of the incredible diversity and adaptability of our natural world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-masters-of-electricity">Masters of electricity</h2>



The ability of hummingbird flower mites to detect and respond to static electricity is probably the result of millions of years of evolutionary fine-tuning.



These tiny arachnids don’t just react to any electric field; they are sensitive to specific frequencies generated by the movement and vibrations of hummingbirds. 



But how did this ability develop, and why is it so crucial to their survival?



Researchers suspect that mites with a heightened sensitivity to electrical fields had an evolutionary advantage. Being able to time their jumps with precision ensures that they reach the right <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flowers-blooming-92-days-earlier-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flowers</a>, and minimizes the risk of getting stranded in an unsuitable environment. 



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



Over generations, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lifes-rules-natural-selection-change-significantly-often-daphnia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural selection</a> may have favored mites with specialized structures in their legs. As Garcia-Robledo's team observed, these structures seem to help the mites detect and interpret electric signals.



The discovery that mites use electric fields for travel raises broader ecological questions. Could other tiny organisms also exploit similar mechanisms? 



Insects, pollen, or even microbes might interact with electrostatic forces in ways we have yet to fully understand. 



This new perspective challenges researchers to rethink how small-scale biological systems interact with invisible physical forces, and opens the door to discoveries beyond mites and hummingbirds.



While the full extent of electrostatic sensing in nature remains a mystery, one thing is certain - these tiny mites are not just passive passengers. They are finely adapted travelers that use hidden forces to navigate their microscopic world with astonishing precision.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2419214122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Hummingbird flower mites use static electricity to travel

Hummingbird flower mites are tiny hitchhikers with an electrifying secret....

Forests along Brazil’s rivers have played a crucial role in connecting the Amazon and Atlantic rainforests for millions of years. These green corridors have allowed tree species to migrate between the two forests, even though they are separated by vast expanses of dry forest and savanna. 



Until now, researchers believed that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-are-relocating-in-a-race-against-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree</a> migration only occurred during wetter climatic periods when rainforests expanded across South America. However, a new study from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) and the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a> reveals a different story.



The research challenges the long-held assumption that tree species only moved between the Amazon and Atlantic forests during rare climate shifts. Instead, the study suggests that species have been dispersing continuously over time, using riverside forests as natural highways. 



This discovery reshapes the understanding of how rainforest biodiversity has evolved and highlights the ongoing importance of these ecological corridors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tree-migration-through-generations">Tree migration through generations</h2>



Rather than short-term bursts of movement, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/many-tree-species-are-moving-to-colder-and-wetter-regions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree species</a> have migrated slowly over many generations. The researchers found that trees growing along rivers helped species move gradually across the dry landscapes of Brazil.



“Rather than tree species being exchanged during specific wetter periods in the past, we found that species have dispersed consistently over time,” said Dr. James Nicholls of <a href="https://www.rbge.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RBGE</a>.



The study was focused on 164 species of Inga trees, a genus found widely in Latin American rainforests. By analyzing the DNA of these trees, the researchers reconstructed their evolutionary history, determining when different species diverged from their ancestors.



Mapping the locations of various&nbsp;Inga&nbsp;species further revealed patterns of movement between the Amazon and Atlantic forests.



This detailed genetic analysis uncovered a consistent pattern of species migration that spanned millions of years. The findings suggest that rainforest connectivity has depended not just on large-scale climate changes but also on localized ecological networks along rivers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amazon-trees-migrate-more">Amazon trees migrate more</h2>



The study identified 16 to 20 instances where tree species from the Amazon successfully established themselves in the Atlantic forest. These events were spread across evolutionary history rather than being concentrated in specific periods when Brazil had a wetter climate. 



The findings indicate that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-are-moving-to-soils-that-lack-the-fungi-to-support-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a> have been able to migrate across dry regions at a slow but steady pace, rather than relying on rare climate-driven rainforest expansions.



Interestingly, the researchers found only one or two cases where tree species moved in the opposite direction—from the Atlantic rainforest to the Amazon. This suggests an imbalance in species migration, likely due to the Amazon’s vast size and greater seed production. 



Because the Amazon is much larger, it likely sends out a greater number of seeds, increasing the chances of successful migration to the Atlantic forest.



This discovery reshapes the understanding of rainforest dynamics, showing that species movement is not just a relic of past climate changes but an ongoing process. It also suggests that even in modern times, forest corridors remain vital for biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-brazil-s-riverside-forests">Protecting Brazil’s riverside forests</h2>



The research highlights the importance of conserving forests along Brazil’s rivers. These green corridors allow <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-forests-which-tree-species-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree species</a> to continue moving between the two rainforests, maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance. 



Brazilian law already provides legal protection for riverside forests, recognizing their critical role in preserving the country’s natural ecosystems.



“This legal protection - and efforts to preserve these riverside forests - are highly valuable for long-term habitat connectivity,” said Professor Toby Pennington from Exeter’s Department of Geography and the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/research/institutes/gsi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Systems Institute</a>.



Beyond their role in species migration, these forests are essential for sustaining the extraordinary biodiversity of the Atlantic rainforest trees.



The Atlantic rainforest is home to approximately 3,000 more plant species than the Amazon, yet only 20% of it remains intact. Habitat destruction has put many species at risk, making conservation efforts more urgent than ever.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maintaining-rainforest-connections">Maintaining rainforest connections </h2>



“In the short term, we need to protect these precious rainforests. In the long term, our study shows that we must also conserve the connections between them,” said Pennington.



Protecting the Amazon and Atlantic rainforests requires more than just safeguarding individual patches of forest. It also depends on maintaining the ecological links that have allowed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-have-an-amazing-ability-to-adapt-to-new-climates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree</a> species to migrate and adapt over millions of years.



Ensuring the survival of riverside forests will not only help preserve the unique biodiversity of both rainforests but also support the broader health of Brazil’s ecosystems.



The study was funded by the United States <a href="https://www.nsf.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Science Foundation</a>, emphasizing the global importance of understanding and protecting these critical rainforest connections.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2024.1559" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a>.



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Rainforest trees use rivers as highways for migration

Forests along Brazil’s rivers have played a crucial role in...

The Brazil nut tree (Bertholletia excelsa) is a vital part of the Amazon's rich biodiversity, but its genetic diversity has faced centuries of disruption. 



Factors such as European colonization, extensive deforestation, and the extinction of large seed-dispersing animals like the giant sloth have all played a role in its decline.



The Brazil nut tree is also a symbol of ecological resilience, economic sustenance, and the intricate web of life within the rainforest. But now, its future is at stake as human activities are constantly shifting the ecology of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazon-trees-are-critically-endangered-even-in-protected-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon</a> Basin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genomic-data-from-brazil-nut-trees">Genomic data from Brazil nut trees</h2>



A team of researchers recently embarked on a mission to investigate the genetic diversity and population dynamics of Brazil nut trees.



“This research provides an amazing opportunity to study how human actions, even in the distant past, have affected genetic makeup in a wild species over short time scales,” noted Detlef Weigel, an expert at the the <a href="https://www.mpg.de/151769/biology-tuebingen" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute</a> for Biology Tübingen. 



The scientists used up-to-date genomic techniques to analyze a total of 270 Brazil nut tree samples. These samples, each with known archaeological evidence, were collected from various locations.



The result of this analysis was a detailed genomic data sheet that identified over 126,000 genetic variants in the Brazil nut tree's genome. The data is a treasure trove of insights into the genetic health and adaptability of the species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-diversity-of-brazil-nut-trees">Genetic diversity of Brazil nut trees</h2>



The study suggests that, when compared to the diversity of other species, there has been a steep decline in the genetic diversity of Brazil nut trees over the past 20,000 years. But, it's not all gloom and doom.



Areas that have been managed by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indigenous-communities-provide-clues-to-healthy-brain-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Indigenous communities</a> show more complex genetic backgrounds, revealing a deep connection between plant life and Indigenous land stewardship.



For example, younger trees (less than 200 years old) in the Tefé National Forest (TEF) show a greater diversity of genes. This is thanks to their adaptation to previous natural disturbances and to the management approaches of local communities that have led to genetic resilience. 



This exemplifies how traditional ecological practices can uphold the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/echoes-of-the-past-whalings-long-term-impact-on-genetic-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic diversity</a> and health of a species while providing a model for sustainable management.



Victor Caetano-Andrade, a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Coevolution of Land Use and Urbanisation at the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology, shared his insight.



“We aimed to bridge gaps in our understanding of the long-term anthropogenic influences on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-herbivore-extinctions-drastically-affect-forest-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest ecosystems</a>. Our findings demonstrate how Indigenous land management practices play a significant role in maintaining the genetic diversity of Brazil nut populations,” said Caetano-Andrade.



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



This innovative study highlights the crucial partnership between scientists and Indigenous land stewards. By leveraging their historical ecological knowledge, we can create more inclusive and effective conservation policies.



Looking ahead, the scientists plan to broaden their investigation to more regions and additional species within the Amazon rainforest.



The ultimate goal is to develop comprehensive conservation frameworks that protect Brazil nut trees and bolster the ecosystem's resilience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-and-economic-impacts">Ecological and economic impacts </h2>



The loss of genetic diversity in Brazil nut trees affects more than just the species itself. The impacts extend to other aspects of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazon-animals-will-suffer-as-the-rainforest-turns-into-savanna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainforest</a> ecosystem, as well as to local economies.



The Brazil nut tree is a keystone species that plays a crucial role in supporting biodiversity. These trees provide food and shelter for countless organisms - ranging from pollinators like orchid bees to large, fruit-eating mammals.



Reduced genetic diversity weakens the tree’s resilience to climate change, pests, and diseases, and increases the risk of population decline.



Moreover, this genetic bottleneck has economic consequences for communities that rely on Brazil nut harvesting as a primary source of income.



Declining tree health and lower yields could threaten a sustainable industry that has supported Amazonian livelihoods for centuries. 



Maintaining genetic variation through conservation efforts and Indigenous land stewardship will be essential for safeguarding not only the species but also the ecological and economic stability of the region.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0960982224016919" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Genetic legacy of the Brazil nut tree has been altered by human activity

The Brazil nut tree (Bertholletia excelsa) is a vital part...

The city of Sydney in Australia has gained new attention for something unexpected. Instead of sunbathers by the shore or bustling restaurant queues, curious groups have appeared at the Royal Botanic Garden to experience a "corpse flower." 



This flower is famous for being the largest bloom in the world, and for its overpowering odor. Some call it revolting; others call it mesmerizing. Either way, there’s no denying its draw.



The plant’s official name is <a href="https://gustavus.edu/academics/departments/biology/titanarum/faq.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amorphophallus titanum</a>, but its fans know it by a more colorful nickname: the corpse flower. Either way, its flowers have an odor that’s powerful enough to attract thousands.



<a href="https://findanexpert.unimelb.edu.au/profile/713188-emily-white" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Emily White</a>, a horticultural scientist at the <a href="https://www.botanicgardens.org.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Botanic Garden</a>, has studied rare tropical species for over a decade.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-irresistible-stench">An irresistible stench</h2>



This short-lived spectacle <a href="https://www.usbg.gov/gardens-plants/corpse-flowers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">only blooms</a> for about 24 hours every few years, when it releases a scent that many liken to the stench of rotting meat. 



Visitors report everything from hints of rancid socks to the smell of forgotten leftovers.



Staff members say nearly 20,000 people have navigated the winding pathways and stood patiently in line for a chance to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-does-the-corpse-flower-smell-like-rotting-flesh/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">see (and smell) the flower</a> up close.



Native to the rainforests of western Indonesia, the corpse flower was discovered in 1878 by Italian botanist <a href="https://www.kew.org/plants/titan-arum" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Odoardo Beccari</a>. 



It has intrigued plant enthusiasts ever since, partly because it grows from an underground corm that can weigh hundreds of pounds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-corpse-flower-blooms-for-just-one-day">Corpse flower blooms for just one day</h2>



To see the plant in bloom is a rare event. The flower only lasts about a day, meaning that people who wish to see and smell it need to rush to the garden before the bloom collapses. 



If you miss it, there’s no knowing when it might come around again.



The wait might be four or five years, or even longer. The staff extended visiting hours and accepted donations from fascinated guests, hoping to give everyone a chance to witness the ephemeral wonder before it faded.



By the next afternoon, the flower would be spent, and the pungent smell would vanish, leaving just a tall, withered structure behind.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-the-corpse-flower-stink">Why does the corpse flower stink?</h2>



The smell may be disagreeable to humans, but it’s essential for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-orchids-have-fingers-to-pollinate-themselves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollination</a>.



While most flowers use pleasant fragrances to lure bees or butterflies, the corpse flower’s stench entices flies and beetles that specialize in feeding on carrion.



These insects mistake the odor for that of a rotting carcass, crawl deep into the bloom, and help transfer pollen in the process. 



This trick is vital to the corpse flower’s reproduction, though it can seem downright repugnant to most people brave enough to get close.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-don-t-eat-the-fruit">Don't eat the fruit</h2>



Once pollination occurs, the flower produces bright red, round fruits that appear over the course of a few months. 



In the wild, they would be eaten by certain birds, like rhinoceros hornbills, which help disperse the seeds across the rainforest floor.



The fruits are poisonous to humans and not intended as a snack. Even if they form successfully, the plant requires substantial energy to generate them, so it usually remains dormant for years before attempting another bloom.



“We expect multiple corpse flower blooms per year,” states the <a href="https://www.usbg.gov/gardens-plants/corpse-flowers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Botanic Garden</a> on their official website, although they note that the timing is unpredictable.&nbsp;



Curious onlookers everywhere have tuned in to live feeds hosted by botanical institutions. Many gardens around the world keep at least one corpse flower in a specialized greenhouse, hoping for the day it sets off a flurry of excitement.



<a href="https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/66511-largest-single-flower" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Guinness World Records</a> shows that the tallest known specimen reached 10 feet 2 inches (just over 3 meters) when it bloomed in New Hampshire in 2010. 



The combination of size, smell, and rarity makes the corpse flower a consistent headliner whenever it decides to bloom.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-corpse-flower-conservation">Corpse flower conservation</h2>



Despite its fame in public displays, the corpse flower faces major challenges in nature. 



Environmental pressure has reduced the number of wild plants, and it is officially classified as Endangered by the <a href="https://nc.iucnredlist.org/redlist/amazing-species/amorphophallus-titanum/pdfs/original/amorphophallus-titanum.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Union for the Conservation of Nature</a>.



Intensive logging and conversion of the plant’s Sumatran habitat into palm oil plantations have taken a toll. 



Several botanic gardens cooperate on cross-pollination and seed-sharing programs to broaden the gene pool, including the Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney, Kew in London, and various U.S. institutions.



These programs aim to safeguard the species through <a href="https://www.oxfordreference.com/display/10.1093/oi/authority.20110810104854504" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ex situ</a> conservation efforts, an important lifeline for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-earths-most-endangered-plants-from-extinction-proving-difficult-botanic-gardens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants threatened</a> by habitat loss.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascination-for-all-ages">Fascination for all ages</h2>



The corpse flower isn’t just an oddity for expert gardeners. Families with kids on school breaks have dropped by the glasshouse to see - and sniff - something unlike any rose or lily.



Its short-lived bloom offers an unforgettable lesson in biodiversity. Even the worst smell can be a good teacher.



If the lines of visitors are any clue, plenty of people want to learn more about this plant’s unusual approach to survival. 



The spectacle reminds us that nature is full of surprises, and sometimes the most memorable experiences are the ones that leave your nose crinkled and your eyes wide.



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Corpse flowers smell like death, but thousands rush to see them bloom

The city of Sydney in Australia has gained new attention...

Honey bees play a vital role in pollination, supporting food production and maintaining biodiversity. However, their populations have been declining due to multiple threats, including habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change. Among these dangers, one menace stands out - Varroa destructor mites.



These parasites latch onto honey <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-nutrition-is-key-to-honey-bee-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bee</a> larvae, weakening entire colonies and leading to their collapse. Beekeepers have long battled these mites using various treatments, but a new study reveals that improper timing of these treatments could be causing more harm than good.



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a> found that many beekeepers are not following recommended treatment schedules. As a result, their hives suffer higher losses than necessary.



The findings suggest that improving adherence to treatment guidelines could make a significant difference in bee survival rates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-varroa-mites-are-killing-bees">Varroa mites are killing bees</h2>



The study analyzed data from 4,339 beekeepers across 37 counties in England and Wales. Using information from the National Bee Unit’s <a href="https://www.nationalbeeunit.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BeeBase</a>, the researchers examined 18,700 colonies between 2016 and 2020.



By tracking Varroa mite treatments, they found that the type of treatment used was important, but its timing played an even greater role in determining colony survival. Delayed or premature applications led to a higher rate of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/winter-poses-a-challenge-to-the-survival-of-honey-bees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hive</a> losses, regardless of the treatment method.



"The main finding here was that a major cause of honeybee mortality could, in theory, be quite easy to reduce," said Dr. Thomas O'Shea-Wheller, lead author of the study from the University of Exeter.



The research challenges the assumption that the main threats to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honey-bee-colonies-are-collapsing-as-climate-change-progresses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">honey bees</a> come from new diseases or environmental changes. Instead, it points to an overlooked but controllable factor - adherence to treatment schedules.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breaking-the-reproductive-cycle">Breaking the reproductive cycle</h2>



Mite populations increase rapidly throughout the beekeeping season, growing in an exponential pattern. This makes it essential for beekeepers to apply treatments at the correct moments to break the reproductive cycle of the mites.



"Although beekeepers are frequently treating for Varroa, a considerable proportion are missing key time points and thus experiencing higher losses than expected," said Dr. O'Shea-Wheller.



A common mistake among beekeepers is applying treatment too early or too late in the season. If treatment occurs too soon, it may not fully eliminate the mites, allowing them to rebound before the season ends. 



If applied too late, the mites will have already caused significant damage to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-honey-bee-day-protecting-our-vital-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">colony</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-untimely-treatment-leads-to-more-bee-deaths">Untimely treatment leads to more bee deaths</h2>



Varroa mites weaken honey bees by feeding on their bodily fluids, which reduces their ability to fight infections and diseases. As the mite population grows unchecked, the hive becomes more vulnerable to collapse.



"If you miss these, and apply a treatment too early or too late, then it will fail to properly suppress the mite population and growth will continue unchecked," said Dr. O'Shea-Wheller. 



"Missing the recommended treatment window is, I think, the largest cause of poor prognostic outcomes and associated colony mortality."



This mistiming does not just impact individual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organic-farming-and-flower-strips-improve-honey-bee-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hives</a>. The spread of Varroa mites from poorly treated colonies can affect neighboring hives, creating a wider problem for beekeeping communities.



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



Beyond colony losses, inconsistent treatment schedules also contribute to another serious issue - the rise of resistant Varroa mites. Similar to antibiotic-resistant bacteria, mites that survive mistimed or improperly applied treatments become more resistant to future applications.



"Varroa has been the primary cause of honey bee mortality for some years, and it seems that we're in a sort of arms race as the mites become increasingly resistant to acaricides," said Dr. O'Shea-Wheller. 



"Like with antibiotics, it's important to use Varroa treatments precisely as directed, because mistiming, overdosing, or underdosing can all increase the chances of the mites developing resistance."



This resistance forces beekeepers to rely on stronger or alternative treatments, which may not always be effective. If resistance continues to spread, managing Varroa mites will become even more challenging in the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-simple-yet-effective-solution">A simple yet effective solution</h2>



The research suggests that improving adherence to treatment guidelines could significantly reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bees-build-symmetrical-nests-not-for-beauty-but-for-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">colony</a> losses. 



Unlike other threats to honey bees, such as climate change or habitat destruction, this is a problem that can be addressed immediately.



By ensuring that treatments are applied at the right time, beekeepers can not only protect their own hives but also help slow the spread of resistant mites. This change requires greater awareness, education, and commitment from beekeepers to follow best practices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-bees-with-timely-varroa-treatment">Protecting bees with timely Varroa treatment</h2>



Honey bee populations face a range of threats, but the study highlights one key factor that can be controlled right away. Proper timing of Varroa mite treatments is a simple yet powerful step toward reducing colony losses.



With continued research and better adherence to treatment schedules, beekeepers can play a crucial role in safeguarding these vital pollinators. The future of honey bees depends on proactive solutions, and ensuring timely Varroa treatment is a crucial part of that effort.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.schweizerbart.de/papers/entomologia/detail/prepub/106352/A_large_scale_study_of_Varroa_destructor_treatment?af=crossref" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Entomologia Generalis</a>.



Image Credit: Fera Science



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Major cause of honeybee mortality can be easily reduced

Honey bees play a vital role in pollination, supporting food...

Blue whales, the largest creatures on Earth, have long captivated scientists and the public alike. Reaching lengths of up to 100 feet (30 meters), these immense mammals depend on huge quantities of krill - tiny, shrimp-like crustaceans - to sustain their colossal bodies.&nbsp;



Historically, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blue-whales-continue-their-battle-for-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blue whales</a>, along with other baleen whales, roamed the oceans in great numbers, filtering seawater for small marine life. However, the past century brought intensive commercial whaling that nearly eradicated them.&nbsp;



Intriguingly, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-krill-are-natures-unexpected-carbon-warriors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">krill</a> populations also plummeted instead of thriving in predator-free waters, and neither species has fully rebounded. This paradox has prompted scientists to investigate whales’ larger role in marine ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whales-as-nutrient-recyclers-nbsp">Whales as nutrient recyclers&nbsp;</h2>



A new study from <a href="https://www.washington.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Washington</a> (UW) oceanographers offers insight into this mystery. The research suggests that whales may act not just as top predators but also as crucial nutrient recyclers, fertilizing the open ocean through their excrement.&nbsp;



By providing essential trace metals like iron and non-toxic forms of copper, whales may bolster phytoplankton productivity, thereby sustaining the food web from the bottom up.



“We made novel measurements of whale feces to assess how important whales are to recycling important nutrients for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-from-africa-sparked-a-massive-phytoplankton-bloom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phytoplankton</a>,” said first author Patrick Monreal, a UW doctoral student in oceanography.&nbsp;



“Our analysis suggests that the decimation of baleen whale populations from historical whaling could have had larger biogeochemical implications for the Southern Ocean, an area crucially important to global carbon cycling.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whale-poop-and-a-nutrient-puzzle-nbsp">Whale poop and a nutrient puzzle&nbsp;</h2>



For decades, scientists assumed that if whale numbers fell, then their primary prey - krill - would flourish in predator-free waters. Instead, krill populations declined as well. This conundrum spurred the idea that whales might be more than mere consumers, potentially playing a vital role in fertilizing the waters they inhabit.&nbsp;



In particular, the Southern Ocean surrounding Antarctica, with its strong currents and nutrient-rich upwelling, is recognized as a key player in climate regulation.&nbsp;



Despite the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-draining-nutrients-from-the-oceans-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrient</a> content in deep water, essential elements such as iron can be in short supply at the surface, limiting phytoplankton growth. Without abundant phytoplankton, krill lack the food needed to sustain their populations.



Understanding this dynamic is crucial because phytoplankton, akin to terrestrial plants, form the foundation of marine food webs. They convert sunlight and carbon dioxide into organic matter, sequestering carbon and fueling the entire oceanic community.&nbsp;



If whale waste - rich in iron and other trace metals - once stimulated massive phytoplankton blooms, the decimation of whales could have curtailed this nutrient supply. This may have contributed to declines in krill and reshaped oceanic ecosystems in ways still felt today.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gathering-and-analyzing-whale-waste">Gathering and analyzing whale waste</h2>



To investigate whales’ nutrient contribution, researchers collected five fecal samples: two from humpback whales in the Southern Ocean and three from blue whales off central California.&nbsp;



Although securing such samples might sound challenging, opportunistic collection is possible when whales defecate at the surface - whale excrement floats, forming a distinctive cloud that can be scooped up with a small net.



“The nice thing, I guess, is that whale excrement floats,” said senior author Randie Bundy, an assistant professor of oceanography at UW.



Previously, scientists had documented high levels of nitrogen and carbon in whale poop, but the new study focused on trace metals, substances often lacking far from land but essential for phytoplankton growth.&nbsp;



The team analyzed the whale feces for iron, known to be especially limited in the Southern Ocean, as well as copper.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-iron-copper-and-the-microbial-connection">Iron, copper, and the microbial connection</h2>



All five samples showed substantial iron content, reinforcing the hypothesis that whale waste functions as a fertilizer in nutrient-poor waters. The presence of copper astonished the researchers.



“We were really shocked by how much copper was in the whale poop. We initially thought, ‘Oh, no, is the whale poop actually toxic?’” Bundy said.



A deeper analysis indicated that the copper atoms were bound to organic ligands, molecules that render copper safe and bioavailable for marine life. These ligands also appear to help phytoplankton access iron more effectively.&nbsp;



The scientists suspect that gut microbes living within the whales may generate these ligands, acting as microscopic chemists that transform the animals’ feces into a highly beneficial nutrient source.



“I think animals play a larger role in chemical cycles than many experts give them credit for, especially when thinking at the ecosystem scale,” Monreal said. “When I say animals, I really mean their gut microbiome. Based on what we see, it seems like bacteria in the whales’ guts could be important.”



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



The Southern Ocean is a critical zone for global carbon cycling, making these findings especially significant. If whales once substantially fertilized these waters, their near-eradication may have altered entire food chains.&nbsp;



As whale populations slowly recover, it’s possible their nutrient recycling activity - sometimes termed the “whale pump” - could also rebound, bolstering phytoplankton and helping reestablish robust marine communities.



Moreover, given that phytoplankton sequester carbon dioxide, a fuller understanding of whales’ role in promoting these blooms may inform climate mitigation efforts.&nbsp;



By illuminating the profound but underappreciated role of whale poop, this study underscores how preserving and restoring whale populations could ripple through oceanic ecosystems, affecting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-ocean-day-a-unified-approach-to-protect-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>, fisheries, and even carbon storage.



Ultimately, the research illustrates that whales, far from being mere consumers, actively shape their habitats. Their excrement stands as a striking example of how interconnected life in the ocean truly is - a reminder that conserving key species often helps uphold the entire, intricately balanced system beneath the waves.



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Whale poop is a natural fertilizer that keeps the ocean alive

Blue whales, the largest creatures on Earth, have long captivated...

Fungi are often overlooked in the grand tapestry of life, yet they play an essential role in ecosystems around the world. From decomposing organic matter to forming symbiotic relationships with plants and animals, fungi are nature’s silent architects. 



Recently, a discovery involving a fungus growing on a spider has added a new layer of understanding to the story of these remarkable organisms.



During this research, scientists identified a previously unknown <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fungi-can-think-and-make-smart-decisions-without-a-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species of fungus</a> that has been named in honor of a legendary figure in natural history. 



This discovery adds to our knowledge of fungal diversity and is a reminder of how much there is still to learn about the intricate connections between fungi and their hosts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-species-gibellula-attenboroughii">New species Gibellula attenboroughii</h2>



Dr. Harry Evans, an Emeritus Fellow at CAB International, led a team of researchers from institutions such as the <a href="https://snm.dk/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Natural History Museum of Denmark</a> and the <a href="https://www.kew.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Botanical Gardens Kew</a>. 



The investigation began during the filming of the <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p012msk2/episodes/guide" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BBC Winterwatch series</a> in Northern Ireland, where a peculiar fungus was found growing on a spider.



Using both morphological and molecular evidence, the scientists confirmed that this fungus represented a novel species. 



In recognition of his profound impact on natural history programming, the team decided to name it after Sir David Attenborough.



"[The species is] named after the broadcaster and natural historian Sir David Attenborough, a pioneer of BBC natural history programs, who - in his role as controller of BBC 2 - helped to develop the Natural History Unit," noted Dr. Evans.



This led, indirectly, to the filming of the present nature series, during which the new species was first discovered.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gibellula-attenboroughii-and-spiders">Gibellula attenboroughii and spiders</h2>



The spider that hosted the fungus was later identified as Metellina merianae, an orb-weaving cave spider belonging to the family Tetragnathidae.



With the help of a local speleologist, the researchers extended their search and discovered more specimens of the newly named species, Gibellula attenboroughii, in cave systems across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. 



Interestingly, the fungus was also found to infect another spider species, Meta menardi, which occupies different ecological niches within the caves. 



Like the original specimen, which was located on the ceiling of a gunpowder store, all of the infected spiders were found on the roof or walls of the caves.



These typically reclusive creatures had abandoned their usual hiding spots or webs, and migrated to exposed areas before dying.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connection-to-zombie-ant-fungi">Connection to zombie-ant fungi</h2>



This behavior mirrors what has been observed in ants that are similarly infected by fungi of the genus Ophiocordyceps in Brazil's Atlantic rainforest. 



In those cases, the fungi manipulated their ant hosts to position themselves in locations ideal for spore dispersal, which led to the use of the term "zombie-ant fungi."



This phenomenon has captured the public's imagination, inspiring books, video games, and even the popular television series The Last of Us. 



Scientists have since identified behavioral-changing metabolites, such as dopamine, in cultures of zombie-ant fungi.



The discovery of similar behaviors in spiders infected by Gibellula attenboroughii suggests that these fungi may employ comparable mechanisms to control their hosts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fungus-and-spiders-in-the-british-isles">Fungus and spiders in the British Isles</h2>



Published in the journal Fungal Systematics and Evolution, the study went beyond identifying the new species. 



The researchers conducted extensive historical herbarium records and literature searches, and revealed a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-fungi-diversity-can-be-pulled-out-of-thin-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hidden diversity</a> within the genus Gibellula in the British Isles.



The experts also uncovered evidence of widespread disease epidemics among spiders in Norfolk and Wales. 



The findings suggest that fungi like Gibellula attenboroughii may play a significant role in regulating spider populations.



"Their role in spider-population dynamics warrants further study, as do the metabolites they produce which enable them to exploit such a highly specific ecological niche," noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-zombie-fungus-controls-spiders">How zombie fungus controls spiders</h2>



The discovery of Gibellula attenboroughii highlights the importance of studying fungi not only for their ecological roles but also for their potential applications. 



Understanding how these fungi influence spiders could provide insights into broader <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tipping-point-discovered-in-fungi-evolution-that-impacts-their-shape-and-growth-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological dynamics</a>.



For instance, if certain fungi regulate spider numbers, they might indirectly affect other species within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-frost-beard-ice-formation-exidiopsis-effusa-fungi-discovered-by-hiker/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem</a>. 



Additionally, investigating the metabolites produced by these fungi could lead to discoveries with implications beyond ecology. 



Such compounds might have pharmaceutical or industrial uses, which makes this area of research particularly promising.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tribute-to-sir-david-attenborough">Tribute to Sir David Attenborough</h2>



Naming the fungus after <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0041003/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sir David Attenborough</a> serves as a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication to exploring and sharing the wonders of the natural world. 



His work has inspired countless individuals, including the scientists involved in this study, to examine the mysteries of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deadly-fungus-found-in-garden-soils-across-america/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature</a>. 



By honoring Sir Attenborough in this way, the researchers not only celebrate his contributions but also emphasize the interconnectedness of scientific discovery and public engagement. It is a reminder that science thrives when curiosity is shared and nurtured.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-is-gibellula-attenboroughii-important">Why is Gibellula attenboroughii important?</h2>



The identification of Gibellula attenboroughii opens up numerous avenues for future research. Scientists are eager to explore how these fungi manipulate their hosts and what chemical compounds they produce to achieve such precise control. 



Furthermore, understanding the role of fungi in regulating spider populations could provide valuable insights into ecosystem stability.



In a time when biodiversity is under threat, studies like this remind us of the importance of preserving ecosystems and the species within them. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/wfbi/fuse/pre-prints/content-f1_fuse_vol15_art7;jsessionid=dd632sclfekn9.x-ic-live-03" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fungal Systematics and Evolution</a>.



Image Credit: CABI



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Fungus infects and controls spiders, turning them into 'zombies'

Fungi are often overlooked in the grand tapestry of life,...

Remarkable social behaviors have been discovered in Kinda baboons (Papio kindae) that set them apart from other baboon species.&nbsp;



The research, led by <a href="https://www.umass.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Massachusetts Amherst</a> anthropologist Anna Weyher, was conducted over nine years in Zambia’s Kasanka National Park.



The study reveals that male Kinda baboons form strong, long-term social bonds with females, a behavior uncommon in most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baboons-fail-to-recognize-themselves-in-mirrors-unlike-some-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">baboon species</a>.



Unlike their more aggressive and competitive relatives, Kinda males initiate and maintain affiliative relationships with multiple females, forming lasting friendships that persist beyond mating periods.&nbsp;



These findings suggest that the social structures of Kinda baboons challenge traditional classifications of baboon behavior and could provide valuable insights into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/primate-evolution-completing-the-timetree-of-life-for-all-of-our-closest-relatives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primate evolution</a>, including early human social dynamics.



“In some ways, it’s not surprising that, behaviorally, Kindas are so different because, anatomically, they look a lot different than other baboons,” said Jason Kamilar, professor of anthropology at UMass Amherst and co-author of the study.&nbsp;



“Kindas are the smallest baboons and they’re also the least sexually dimorphic, so the difference in body size between males and females is the smallest - making them the best baboon species [for us] to understand humans.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unusual-male-female-social-bonds">Unusual male-female social bonds</h2>



In most baboon species, female social bonds dominate, and male-female relationships are typically short-lived, forming primarily around mating opportunities. However, Kinda baboon males take a different approach, prioritizing affiliative relationships with females.



Researchers found that male Kindas were the primary initiators of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-early-primates-lived-in-pairs-and-were-not-solitary-creatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social interactions</a>. They frequently engaged in proximity maintenance (staying close to specific females for extended periods), grooming (a key social behavior in primates that promotes trust and reduces stress), and long-term friendships lasting years, rather than being tied solely to reproduction.



These findings suggest that male-female bonds serve a broader social function beyond mating. The benefits for males could include increased reproductive opportunities, while females may gain social stability, reduced harassment, and greater protection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-baboons-and-cooperative-social-dynamics">Baboons and cooperative social dynamics</h2>



Another striking discovery was the notably low level of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-animals-have-mirror-neurons-that-spark-aggression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aggression</a> among Kinda males. In most baboon species, males compete aggressively for dominance, engaging in frequent battles over access to mates. 



However, the study found that Kinda baboons display minimal aggression toward each other and toward females.



“What we’ll typically see is that a male from outside the group will enter the study group, but they do so without much fanfare,” Kamilar explained.&nbsp;



“The new male will have to slowly move his way up the social hierarchy. That’s very different from yellow baboons, for instance, where you’ll have an individual male come in as an alpha and basically take over the group.”



Instead of forcefully challenging dominant males, new male Kinda baboons integrate gradually, forming relationships with group members rather than disrupting existing social structures.



This “long-game” strategy contrasts sharply with other baboon species, where males frequently battle for alpha status. The researchers believe this unique approach could provide evolutionary advantages, promoting cooperative relationships rather than dominance-based competition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-baboon-social-structures">Rethinking baboon social structures</h2>



The study’s findings challenge the traditional classification of baboon social models. Historically, baboons have been grouped into two primary social structures.&nbsp;



The “savannah” model is characterized by strong female bonds, with males competing aggressively for mates, as seen in species like yellow and olive baboons.&nbsp;



In contrast, the “hamadryas” model features rigid, male-dominated groups where males exert strong control over female movements, a structure typical of hamadryas baboons.



However, Kinda baboons don’t fit neatly into either category. Instead, they exhibit a blend of social behaviors, where males form lasting social ties with females without controlling them.



According to the experts, Kinda baboons exhibit a variety of behaviors, with male-driven social investment similar to that of hamadryas baboons, but within a more fluid and egalitarian group structure.



This raises intriguing questions about the evolution of social behavior in primates, suggesting that Kinda baboons might represent an ancestral social system - one that predates the more hierarchical structures seen in other baboon species today.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-window-into-early-human-evolution">A window into early human evolution?</h2>



Because Kinda baboons are the least sexually dimorphic of all baboon species, meaning males and females are closer in size than in other baboon species, researchers believe they offer insights into early human social evolution.



“Understanding how different primate species interact socially gives us clues about the evolutionary pressures that shaped human behavior,” Kamilar said.



The findings suggest that early primates - potentially including human ancestors - may have exhibited similar cooperative, male-female social bonds rather than strict dominance-based hierarchies. This could provide a model for understanding how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-had-surprising-diets-3-5-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early humans</a> balanced competition and cooperation in their social groups.



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



The Kasanka Baboon Project, founded by lead researcher Anna Weyher, continues to study Kinda baboons to further investigate their unique social structures.&nbsp;



The team hopes to answer additional questions, such as: Do male-female friendships affect offspring survival rates? How do Kindas resolve conflicts without aggressive dominance struggles? Could this social model be more widespread among other primate species?



“Kinda baboons challenge many of our assumptions about primate behavior,” Weyher said. “By studying them, we’re not just learning about baboons - we’re uncovering new perspectives on how complex social behaviors evolve.”



By shedding light on the cooperative social strategies of Kinda baboons, this study not only deepens our understanding of primate behavior but also offers a fascinating glimpse into the social lives of our early ancestors.



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Baboons may offer clues to early human social evolution

Remarkable social behaviors have been discovered in Kinda baboons (Papio...

Mantis shrimp are among the ocean’s most formidable predators, delivering one of the most powerful and fastest punches in the animal kingdom.&nbsp;



With their specialized dactyl clubs, these shrimp can strike with the force of a .22 caliber bullet, shattering mollusk shells and even cracking aquarium glass. But while their blows are lethal to prey, an even greater mystery is how they themselves remain unharmed.



A new study from <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern University</a>, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.adq7100" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>, has revealed the secret behind the mantis shrimp’s resilience. Researchers found that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shrimp-crisis-alarming-virus-threatens-global-seafood-supplies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shrimp</a>’s club structure selectively filters out harmful shockwaves, protecting its delicate tissues from the immense forces it generates.&nbsp;



This discovery could inspire advanced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-helmeted-hornbill-can-withstand-high-impact-collisions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact-resistant materials</a>ù for applications in protective gear, military armor, and industrial equipment.



“The mantis shrimp is known for its incredibly powerful strike, which can break mollusk shells and even crack aquarium glass,” said Horacio D. Espinosa, the study’s co-corresponding author. “However, to repeatedly execute these high-impact strikes, the mantis shrimp’s dactyl club must have a robust protection mechanism to prevent self-damage.”&nbsp;



“Most prior work has focused on the club’s toughness and crack resistance, treating the structure as a toughened impact shield.”



“We found it uses phononic mechanisms - structures that selectively filter stress waves. This enables the shrimp to preserve its striking ability over multiple impacts and prevent soft tissue damage.”



Espinosa, a professor of mechanical engineering at Northwestern’s McCormick School of Engineering, collaborated with M. Abi Ghanem from the <a href="https://ilm.univ-lyon1.fr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Light and Matter</a> in France to lead this groundbreaking research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-mantis-shrimp-s-deadly-strike">The mantis shrimp’s deadly strike</h2>



Mantis shrimp, which inhabit shallow tropical waters, rely on an internal spring-loaded system to deliver their extraordinary punch. Their dactyl clubs store large amounts of energy in elastic structures, held in place by latch-like tendons.&nbsp;



When the latch is released, the club accelerates faster than a bullet, unleashing a strike that pulverizes shells and deters predators.



This powerful impact has an additional effect: as the club moves through water, it creates a low-pressure zone behind it, forming a small cavitation bubble. When this bubble collapses, it generates a secondary shockwave, adding to the destructive force of the initial strike.



“When the mantis shrimp strikes, the impact generates pressure waves onto its target. It also creates bubbles, which rapidly collapse to produce shockwaves in the megahertz range,” explained Espinosa.



“The collapse of these bubbles releases intense bursts of energy, which travel through the shrimp’s club. This secondary shockwave effect, along with the initial impact force, makes the mantis shrimp’s strike even more devastating.”



Yet despite these immense forces, the mantis shrimp’s own nerves and tissues remain unscathed - a phenomenon that led researchers to investigate the shrimp’s unique biological armor.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-natural-shockwave-filter">A natural shockwave filter</h2>



To uncover how mantis shrimp survive their own punches, the researchers examined the microstructure of the dactyl club using two advanced techniques.



The team used transient grating spectroscopy, which tracks how stress waves move through materials, and picosecond laser ultrasonics, which provides high-resolution imaging of structural details.



The analysis revealed that the club consists of two distinct regions, each serving a specialized protective function. The outer impact layer is made of mineralized fibers arranged in a herringbone pattern, reinforcing the club against fractures and absorbing direct impact forces.&nbsp;



Beneath this layer, a deeper periodic region contains twisted, corkscrew-like fiber bundles arranged in a Bouligand structure, where each layer is slightly rotated relative to the one above it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remarkable-mantis-shrimp-armor">Remarkable mantis shrimp armor</h2>



The researchers found that this inner periodic region selectively filters out high-frequency shockwaves, preventing harmful vibrations from propagating back into the shrimp’s body.&nbsp;



This structure, acting as a phononic shield, ensures that only safe, low-energy waves pass through, shielding the shrimp’s delicate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crocodile-scales-are-shaped-by-tissue-growth-not-genetics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tissues</a> from damage.



“The periodic region plays a crucial role in selectively filtering out high-frequency shear waves, which are particularly damaging to biological tissues,” noted Espinosa. “This effectively shields the shrimp from damaging stress waves caused by the direct impact and bubble collapse.”



This discovery provides a new way of thinking about biological impact resistance, suggesting that mantis shrimp armor isn’t just tough - it actively manages and disperses shockwaves to protect the animal from self-inflicted damage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-materials-that-mimic-the-mantis-shrimp-nbsp">Materials that mimic the mantis shrimp&nbsp;</h2>



The mantis shrimp’s ability to absorb and filter shockwaves could inspire new synthetic materials with similar properties.&nbsp;



Protective gear, including helmets, body armor, and industrial shields, could be designed to redirect or absorb impact forces, reducing injuries in fields ranging from sports and military defense to hazardous industrial work.



Beyond impact-resistant materials, this research also has implications for reducing blast-related injuries in military and high-impact environments.&nbsp;



By developing materials that mimic the shrimp’s phononic properties, researchers could design lightweight protective systems capable of selectively filtering out harmful shockwaves, while allowing less damaging forces to pass through.



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



Although this study provides groundbreaking insights into how the mantis shrimp’s club mitigates shockwaves, further research is needed to fully understand the complexities of its design.&nbsp;



Espinosa and his colleagues plan to conduct 3D simulations to model how the club’s layered structure disperses energy in real-world conditions.&nbsp;



Additionally, they hope to develop aquatic experiments using state-of-the-art instrumentation to observe how these phononic properties function in submerged environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-biological-weapons-nbsp">Powerful biological weapons&nbsp;</h2>



Mantis shrimp have evolved one of the most powerful biological weapons in nature, yet they remain unscathed by their own force.&nbsp;



Their layered dactyl club structure, with its ability to filter and absorb shockwaves, provides a natural model for engineering materials that can withstand repeated high-impact blows.



As scientists continue to explore nature’s designs for solving engineering challenges, the mantis shrimp’s unique armor may hold the key to the next generation of protective technology - one that not only resists impact but manages vibrations in ways that could revolutionize human safety and material science.



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How mantis shrimp survive their own lethal punches

Mantis shrimp are among the ocean’s most formidable predators, delivering...

Whales have fascinated people for centuries. Now, scientists have discovered that humpback whales produce songs with some structure that looks a lot like how humans organize language.



These findings draw on methods used to see how babies detect words in speech. The <a href="https://doi.org/10.1126/science.adq7055" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> was led by <a href="https://www.arnonlanguagelab.com/inbal-arnon-phd" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Inbal Arnon</a> from the Hebrew University, along with colleagues at multiple universities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whale-songs-and-human-speech">Whale songs and human speech</h2>



For years, experts questioned whether <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-helps-humans-have-20-minute-conversation-with-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a> used anything resembling human language. That has changed, with this <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adq7055" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> reporting that whale songs contain recurring elements similar to those in spoken words.&nbsp;



The team compared patterns in whale recordings to patterns in human language. They found that certain repeated sounds appeared in a skewed distribution, which also shows up in language.



They arrived at these conclusions using eight years of recordings gathered near New Caledonia. The analysis suggests that whales may create phrases with distinct internal boundaries that appear repeatedly.



<a href="https://media.ed.ac.uk/media/1_x47e22m8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">*** Click here to listen to the whale songs ***</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-baby-language-research-helps">How baby language research helps</h2>



Researchers turned to methods originally used by baby-language experts. In a classic 1996 <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.274.5294.1926" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a>, scientists showed that eight-month-old infants track probabilities between syllables to spot word boundaries.



Applying these same ideas to whale song helped the team identify distinct structural units. They suspect whales might piece together these sound units through a similar statistical process.



The question is whether whales detect transitions between sound elements as cues. That possibility opens new doors for understanding how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-20-minute-conversation-with-a-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> learn complex calls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-chain-across-the-ocean">Cultural chain across the ocean</h2>



Humpback whales learn their songs from each other, passing new phrases through communities. This type of <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0065345408603770?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cultural transmission</a> can shape communication in ways that mirror human language.



Experts believe these communal practices may help songs change over time. As new whales adapt tunes, they add fresh twists to a shared repertoire.



Such changes might explain why certain phrases dominate a region, while others fade away. That dynamic process could be central to how these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-whales-use-songs-to-hide-from-predators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> maintain a musical tradition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-debating-what-whale-songs-mean">Debating what whale songs mean</h2>



This work extends beyond simple comparisons. “Whale song is not a language; it lacks semantic meaning,” said <a href="https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/biology/people/ecg5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Ellen Garland</a> from the <a href="https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of St Andrews</a>.



“Using insights and methods from how babies learn language allowed us to discover previously undetected structure in whale song.” said Professor Inbal Arnon from the Hebrew University.



The team sees a bigger question about whether these patterns matter to the whales themselves. It's unclear if they perceive these divisions the same way we do.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-communication-in-whales-and-humans">Communication in whales and humans</h2>



“It suggests that our understanding of the evolution of language can benefit not only from looking at our closest primate relatives, but also at cases of convergent evolution elsewhere in nature,” remarked Professor Simon Kirby from the <a href="https://www.ed.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Edinburgh</a>.



Language evolution research has often focused on apes or other primates.&nbsp;



Looking at whales may highlight the role of cultural factors in shaping communication. The study's authors see parallels that challenge old ideas about human uniqueness.



Other scientists note that humpback songs may also resemble music more than language. Some traits might bridge both domains, hinting at shared pathways in how complex signals emerge.



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



The study authors plan to explore whether <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humpback-whale-travels-farther-than-any-mammal-ever-recorded/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whale</a> songs contain segments that have special significance. They want to know if whales respond differently when certain phrases are rearranged.



Dr. Garland mentioned that these new perspectives raise many open questions about cognition and communication. She adds that more data will help confirm if whales use these breaks in real interaction.



Some observers hope these results will guide better conservation strategies. If we grasp how whales craft their songs, we might better protect their communication hotspots.



Some researchers see parallels between whale melodies and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-causes-similar-emotional-experiences-and-sensations-in-all-cultures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human music</a>. Yet the authors emphasize that whale songs do not carry the expressive content of a full language.



Scientists might compare humpback song shifts across different regions. That approach could reveal how social learning shapes each population's signature sounds.



Others are keen to track how quickly whales adopt new phrases from traveling groups. Rapid changes might hint at a flexible system that's primed for adaptation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whales-and-humans-share-cultural-learning">Whales and humans share cultural learning</h2>



Whales and humans seem incredibly different. Yet both rely on cultural learning to pass key behaviors across generations.



These findings highlight a surprising link between human speech and whale song. Researchers believe this shared trait might spark new ideas about how communication evolves.



They see whales as a window into broader questions about how complex signals arise through cultural means. Tracking those signals could lead to fresh insights about creativity in nature.



Many experts now wonder if whale songs might reshape our definitions of language-like behavior. More studies are needed to see if these patterns hold across different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/conversation-with-humpback-whale-gives-seti-team-ideas-on-how-to-talk-to-aliens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whale species</a>.



These results might broaden how we see animal communication in the future.



The study is published in <a href="https://doi.org/10.1126/science.adq7055" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Whale songs share very similar patterns with human language

Whales have fascinated people for centuries. Now, scientists have discovered...

They start their journey on sandy shores, scuttling toward the waves at barely a few inches long. Some people assume these little sea turtles vanish after that, drifting in the open water for years without actively swimming or controlling where they go.



In a recent <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2013.3039" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> led by Kate Mansfield from the University of Central Florida, researchers have pieced together what happens during the early, lesser-known part of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-turtles-show-signs-of-recovery-but-conservation-issues-remain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">turtles’ lives</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-baby-turtles-is-difficult">Tracking baby turtles is difficult</h2>



Researchers recently uncovered the whereabouts of young sea turtles by using carefully designed satellite trackers. They found that tiny turtles show more control over their movement than once believed.



“We’ve had massive data gaps about the early baby to toddler life stages of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-sea-turtle-day-celebrating-100-million-years-of-majesty/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea</a> turtles,” said Mansfield. She explained that this phase was rarely observed in detail.



"Known as the sea turtle ‘lost years,' few data exist on the in-water behavior of young, oceanic-stage sea turtles," wrote the researchers.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainfall-impacts-the-size-of-sea-turtle-hatchlings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Young</a> turtles shed their outer shell layers quickly. This makes it tough to secure tracking devices long enough to gather good data.



Engineers refined lightweight solar-powered tags for weeks or months of location data without hindering the turtles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-young-sea-turtles-don-t-just-drift">Young sea turtles don’t just drift</h2>



Scientists once believed baby turtles went with the flow of ocean currents. Field data are now challenging that long-standing notion.



“What we’ve uncovered is that the turtles are actually swimming,” said Nathan Putman, an ecologist at LGL Ecological Research Associates in Texas.



The analysis compared drifting buoys with small turtles and showed that many turtles moved on their own instead of washing ashore.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-baby-turtles-choose-where-to-swim">Baby turtles choose where to swim</h2>



The difference between turtles and free-floating buoys grew clearer over the course of each tracking period. Drifting objects often ended up stuck on beaches, yet many turtles did not.



“This tiny little hatchling is actually making its own decisions about where it wants to go in the ocean and what it wants to avoid,” said Bryan Wallace, a wildlife ecologist at <a href="https://ecolibriumsolar.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecolibrium in Colorado</a>.



The new findings suggest that turtles choose routes that match their needs for food and safe temperatures.



"The paths of our tracked neonate loggerheads were environmentally constrained. No turtles moved into lethally cold waters," noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-habitats-of-sea-turtles-revealed">Hidden habitats of sea turtles revealed</h2>



Tag data also showed young sea turtles in areas once assumed too close to shore for this stage. Though many do wander across open waters, some appear comfortable dipping into shallower spots.



The researchers noted that such varied paths challenge the old definition of an exclusively oceanic childhood. This highlights the importance of regions near the continental shelf for four types of endangered sea <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/leatherback-sea-turtles-where-the-worlds-largest-turtles-go-to-eat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">turtles</a>.



It took years to refine solar-powered tags that could function on small, rapidly growing shells. Early versions fell off too fast or failed to recharge in ocean conditions.



“For years, the technology couldn’t match the dream,” said Jeffrey Seminoff, a marine biologist at NOAA who was not involved in the study. 



Continued collaboration between ecologists and engineers is bringing once-hidden animal behavior to light.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-efforts-for-sea-turtles">Conservation efforts for sea turtles </h2>



The findings spotlight part of a creature’s life that was overshadowed for decades by hatchling races to the sea and nesting adults on familiar beaches. 



Young turtles do more than just drift - they swim toward the open ocean, while others linger over the continental shelf.



“It’s not that the sea turtles were ever lost, but that we had lost track of them,” said Jeanette Wyneken at Florida Atlantic University. This deeper understanding may guide conservation efforts in areas where turtles feed or rest before reaching adulthood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-how-baby-turtles-swim">Rethinking how baby turtles swim</h2>



The research suggests that the early life stage of sea turtles is not just a dispersal period. The study captures the reality that little turtles roam widely and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-sea-turtle-day-a-tribute-to-resilience-and-conservation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adapt</a> their routes to changing conditions.



They might spot floating algae to seek shelter, or they might veer away from predator hotspots. Even in vast waters, these hatchlings can find ways to survive on their own terms.



The study is published in <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2013.3039" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B</a>.



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Where young sea turtles spend their early lives has always been a mystery - until now

They start their journey on sandy shores, scuttling toward the...

The ocean is a world of sound. Beneath the surface, marine life relies on calls, clicks, and songs to navigate, communicate, and survive. For baleen whales, singing songs is essential, but it also comes with risks. 



Killer whales, their primary natural predators, are intelligent and highly skilled hunters. Yet, despite their sharp senses, some baleen whales manage to avoid their attacks.



New research from the University of Washington sheds light on a fascinating survival strategy. Some baleen <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/these-marine-mammals-killer-whales-dolphins-permanently-lost-ability-to-ever-walk-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a> call at frequencies so deep that killer whales cannot hear them. 



This unique adaptation influences everything from migration to mating, revealing how fear shapes the behavior of these giants of the sea.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fight-or-flight-dilemma-of-whales">Fight or flight dilemma of whales</h2>



Baleen whales, known for their filter-feeding systems, differ from their toothed relatives in behavior and survival strategies. 



Unlike dolphins or sperm whales, which often live in large, social pods, many baleen <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-helps-humans-have-20-minute-conversation-with-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whale species</a> lead more solitary lives. When faced with an attack, they must decide whether to fight or flee.



Some species, like humpbacks and gray whales, choose to stand their ground. They rely on their maneuverability and group defense to deter predators. Others, like blue and fin whales, opt for speed, escaping into the vastness of the open ocean. 



This divide between fight and flight species plays a crucial role in shaping their lifestyles, habitats, and even the way they sing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-whale-songs">Mystery of whale songs</h2>



Whale songs are among the most haunting and complex sounds in nature. Scientists have long studied these vocalizations to understand their purpose. 



While it is well known that whales use songs to attract mates and communicate across great distances, one question remained: why don’t killer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-20-minute-conversation-with-a-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a> track these calls to hunt them down?



The answer lies in frequency. Killer whales have a hearing range that starts at 100 hertz, meaning they cannot detect sounds below this threshold. 



Some baleen whales, particularly those in the flight category, have adapted by producing ultra-low-frequency calls that remain completely undetectable to their predators. These deep-voiced species include blue, fin, sei, Bryde’s, and minke whales.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-songs-help-whales-hide">How songs help whales hide</h2>



Trevor Branch, professor of aquatic and fishery sciences at the <a href="https://www.washington.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Washington</a>, led a study analyzing the relationship between whale songs and predation risk. 



The research combined existing knowledge of killer whale hearing with studies on baleen whale vocalizations. By modeling how sound moves through the ocean, Professor Branch was able to determine which species remain acoustically hidden.



It turns out that the calls of flight species rarely travel more than a kilometer before fading. This means that even if killer whales could hear them, they would still be difficult to track. 



Meanwhile, the fight species - right, bowhead, gray, and humpback whales - produce higher-frequency calls that can be detected from much greater distances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whales-survival-strategy-hidden-in-songs">Whales survival strategy hidden in songs</h2>



The idea that baleen whales rely on fight or flight responses is not new, but the role of sound in their survival adds a new layer of understanding. Could these deep songs serve as a defense mechanism? 



This concept, known as "acoustic crypsis," suggests that some whales evolved to sing in a way that keeps them hidden from predators.



“But these super-loud songs could expose them and their mates to killer whale attack. And this is where acoustic crypsis comes in: singing at low frequencies that are impossible, or very difficult, for killer whales to hear,” Branch said.



This survival strategy highlights how even the most massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humpback-whale-travels-farther-than-any-mammal-ever-recorded/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creatures</a> on Earth must adapt to threats. By calling at deep frequencies, flight species can continue their essential communication while reducing the risk of drawing unwanted attention.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-habitat-influences-defense">How habitat influences defense</h2>



The fight-or-flight divide among baleen whales also affects where they live. Fight species tend to migrate and give birth in coastal areas. 



These shallow waters provide some protection, as they allow group defense strategies to work more effectively. Their slow-swimming bodies may make them vulnerable, but their ability to maneuver quickly gives them an edge when fending off an attack.



In contrast, flight species thrive in the open ocean. Their sleek, powerful bodies allow them to escape quickly when danger approaches. 



These whales spread out over vast distances, making it harder for killer whales to find them. Their survival depends on speed and silence rather than confrontation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trade-offs-in-feeding-and-mating">Trade-offs in feeding and mating</h2>



Choosing where to live comes with trade-offs. Coastal waters offer some protection from predators, but they also provide less food. Fight <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ship-routes-overlap-with-92-of-whale-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> must compete for limited resources, while flight species, living in more isolated open waters, have access to greater food supplies.



However, mating presents the opposite challenge. It is much easier for fight species to find partners when gathered in the same location. 



Flight species, scattered across thousands of miles, must rely on their songs to attract mates. This explains why their calls are long and repetitive, increasing the chances of being heard over vast distances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-fear-in-whale-behavior">Role of fear in whale behavior</h2>



The findings of this research suggest that fear plays a significant role in shaping whale behavior. Every aspect of their lives, from where they breed to how they communicate, is influenced by the threat of predation.



“It just never occurred to me that some whales sing low to avoid killer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/whale-sharks-use-offshore-oil-rigs-as-food-stops-during-migration-harming-conservation-efforts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a>, but the more I looked at this, the more I realized that every aspect of their behavior is influenced by the fear of predation,” said Professor Branch.



This hidden war of sound beneath the waves highlights how even the ocean’s largest creatures must navigate the dangers of their world. By understanding songs of whales, scientists continue to uncover the secrets of survival in the deep.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.13228" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Mammal Science</a>.



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Whales have developed an impressive strategy to evade predators

The ocean is a world of sound. Beneath the surface,...

Monarch butterflies have long symbolized transformation and resilience. Their fragile yet determined migration across North America has captivated scientists and nature enthusiasts.



Each year, these vibrant orange-and-black-winged insects embark on a remarkable journey, covering thousands of miles to reach their wintering grounds. However, recent findings paint a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/creating-new-forests-to-assist-monarch-butterfly-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">troubling picture</a>.



The number of western monarch butterflies has fallen to its second-lowest count in nearly 30 years. A combination of habitat destruction, pesticide exposure, and climate change threatens the survival of this iconic species.



Conservationists and researchers are scrambling to understand the reasons behind this sharp decline and what can be done to protect these beloved pollinators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monarch-butterfly-surveys">Monarch butterfly surveys </h2>



For decades, scientists have monitored monarch <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monarch-butterflies-may-be-added-to-the-endangered-species-list/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a> to track changes in their numbers. Monarchs found in the eastern United States migrate south to Mexico, where they are counted each year by researchers from the World Wildlife Fund.



However, monarchs west of the Rocky Mountains follow a different path and overwinter along the California coast.



Since 1997, the <a href="https://www.xerces.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation</a> has conducted annual counts of western monarchs. These surveys cover multiple locations, including coastal California, northern Baja California, and inland regions of California and Arizona. 



In 1997, researchers recorded the highest-ever population numbers - a total of 1.2 million butterflies. That number has plummeted over the subsequent years, reaching a devastating low of just 1,901 monarchs in 2020.



Despite a brief resurgence in recent years, the latest survey results are alarming. In 2024, only 9,119 monarchs were counted - a staggering 96 percent drop from the 233,394 recorded in 2023. This marks the second-lowest population count since the survey began.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decline-in-key-wintering-sites">Decline in key wintering sites</h2>



One of the most dramatic declines was observed at a key wintering site owned by <a href="https://www.nature.org/en-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Nature Conservancy</a> in Santa Barbara. 



This location hosted 33,200 monarchs last winter. In 2024, the number fell to just 198. Such steep declines raise concerns about the future stability of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monarch-butterflies-shift-to-winter-breeding-for-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">monarch populations</a> in the region.



While the reasons for this sudden decrease are not entirely clear, experts point to several contributing factors. Loss of milkweed, the primary host plant for monarch caterpillars, remains one of the biggest challenges.



The plant’s habitat has been shrinking due to agricultural expansion, urban development, and prolonged droughts. Pesticides also play a major role, contaminating milkweed and poisoning caterpillars before they can mature into butterflies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-heat-and-monarch-butterflies">Extreme heat and monarch butterflies </h2>



Weather conditions also significantly impact monarch <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-are-monarch-butterflies-vanishing-in-the-winter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a>. While habitat destruction and pesticide exposure remain persistent threats, extreme heat waves may have played a crucial role in this year’s decline.



According to Emma Pelton, an endangered species biologist with the Xerces Society, monarchs struggle when temperatures reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.7 Celsius). Prolonged exposure to temperatures above 108 degrees Fahrenheit (42.2 degrees Celsius) can be fatal.



“The monarch population is already small,” Pelton said. “Triple-digit heat in the western states last year may have slowed breeding.”



The summer of 2023 saw multiple heat waves across the western United States. In July, Palm Springs set a record high of 124 degrees Fahrenheit (51.1 degrees Celsius). 



A second wave of extreme heat hit northern California in early October, with multiple cities breaking temperature records. These conditions may have reduced breeding success and weakened the already vulnerable monarch population.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-history-of-dramatic-population-swings">History of dramatic population swings</h2>



Although the 2024 population decline is severe, western monarchs have demonstrated an ability to recover in the past. In 2020, when the population hit its all-time low of 1,901 individuals, many feared the species was on the brink of collapse.



Yet, the following year their numbers soared to 247,246 - an increase of nearly 13,000 percent. The upward trend continued in 2022, with the survey recording 335,479 monarchs.



“This is bad news,” Pelton said. “But we have seen incredible recovery. This doesn’t mean we’re not going to have western monarchs. It’s hopefully a wake-up call that a bad year can set them back pretty significantly.”



The rapid rise and fall of monarch populations suggest that they have the potential for quick recovery, provided conditions improve. However, conservationists warn that without sustained efforts to protect their habitat and food sources, monarchs may struggle to bounce back in the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-federal-efforts-to-protect-monarch-butterflies">Federal efforts to protect monarch butterflies</h2>



In response to the ongoing decline, the <a href="https://www.fws.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service</a> announced in December 2024 that it is taking steps to list monarchs as a threatened species. 



If granted, this status would provide crucial legal protections. Killing or transporting monarchs, or destroying monarch habitats would be prohibited under federal law.



The proposal also includes protections for 4,395 acres of land across seven coastal California counties. These areas serve as essential overwintering sites for western monarchs. 



If the listing is approved, conservationists hope it will slow habitat destruction and create safer breeding grounds for monarch <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eastern-monarch-butterfly-populations-have-plummeted-by-59-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a> to recover.



A public comment period on the proposal remains open until March, allowing experts and the public to weigh in on the decision. Officials have until December 2025 to finalize the listing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-calls-for-stronger-pesticide-regulations">Calls for stronger pesticide regulations</h2>



Beyond habitat loss, pesticides pose a major threat to monarchs and other pollinators. In December 2024, the environmental law firm Earthjustice petitioned the Environmental Protection Agency to strengthen pesticide regulations. 



Their request focused on requiring companies to assess how their products affect insects such as bees, moths, and butterflies.



While some pesticides have been linked to monarch declines, many remain widely used in agriculture. Conservation groups argue that without stricter oversight, pesticide exposure will continue to harm pollinators and reduce their chances of survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fate-of-monarch-butterflies">The fate of monarch butterflies</h2>



The future of western monarchs remains uncertain. Conservationists stress that efforts to restore milkweed habitats, protect overwintering sites, and regulate harmful pesticides must continue. 



While federal protections may provide some relief, long-term recovery will require a collective effort from governments, researchers, and the public.



For now, the sight of monarch <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milkweed-gardens-are-needed-to-save-monarch-butterflies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterflies</a> filling the skies each year remains in jeopardy. The next few years will determine whether these iconic pollinators can withstand the mounting pressures against them or if they will fade into memory as another casualty of a changing world.



Information in this article was obtained from an online <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/feb/04/monarch-butterfly-population-decline">press release</a>.



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Monarch butterflies face steep decline in the Western U.S.

Monarch butterflies have long symbolized transformation and resilience. Their fragile...

Climate change is substantially affecting cocoa production in West and Central Africa, a region that accounts for more than 70% of global cocoa output.&nbsp;



Rising temperatures and altering rainfall patterns are projected to make some areas less suitable for cultivating cocoa, while allowing other areas to potentially increase their yields.



This is the conclusion of a recent study conducted by Wageningen University &amp; Research (WUR).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-major-shifts-in-key-producing-nations">Major shifts in key producing nations</h2>



Researcher Paulina Asante and her team employed a computer model to project how cocoa farming might fare by 2060 in Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, and Cameroon.&nbsp;



The findings suggest that up to 50% of the land currently dedicated to cocoa in the Ivory Coast might become unviable, leading to a marked drop in production.&nbsp;



In Ghana, the study predicts a moderate loss of optimal cocoa-growing zones. By contrast, Nigeria and Cameroon may see an expansion in suitable areas.&nbsp;



According to the study, Cameroon’s output could climb by as much as 60%, while Nigeria could experience a roughly 40% increase.



The research highlight how divergent effects across neighboring countries could influence global cocoa markets. Some places may find opportunity in the shifting climate, but others risk having to phase out cocoa farming altogether.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risk-of-increased-deforestation">Risk of increased deforestation</h2>



With cocoa potentially migrating into new regions, concerns arise over environmental pressures and habitat loss, notes <a href="https://www.wur.nl/en.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WUR</a> researcher Niels Anten.&nbsp;



“Cameroon has a relatively large amount of rainforest, and cocoa is often grown in areas that were originally tropical forests. This puts significant pressure on these ecosystems,” he said.



“Addressing the impact of climate change on cocoa requires an all-hands-on-deck approach. It affects every stage of the supply chain: farmers face reduced yields, businesses encounter rising costs, and consumers see higher prices,” added Asante.



“While collaboration can be challenging, it is crucial to help current production regions adapt and maintain production on existing plantations. This will prevent cocoa-related <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-deforestation-crisis-how-can-we-stop-massive-forest-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deforestation</a> elsewhere and ensure that deforestation-free policies, like the EU law EUDR, deliver meaningful outcomes.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-projections-and-cocoa-production">Climate projections and cocoa production </h2>



The simulations rely on existing knowledge about cocoa’s biological responses alongside climate scenarios for West and Central Africa.&nbsp;



Nonetheless, researchers say there are still gaps in understanding. One unknown is the effect of extra atmospheric CO₂, which tends to boost <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/revealing-the-secrets-of-photosynthesis-through-pep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis</a> and might partially offset damage from high temperatures and drought. The scale of that offset remains unclear.



Additionally, aspects like changes to flowering and fruiting times, as well as the evolution of pests and diseases under warmer conditions, still need further research.&nbsp;



The authors emphasize that this kind of inquiry should not be limited to cocoa alone: more efforts are needed to anticipate how other crops will cope with rising global temperatures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-adaptation-for-cocoa-farmers">Climate adaptation for cocoa farmers</h2>



For smallholder farmers in West Africa, who already earn modest incomes and often lack resources, even modest climate shifts could be drastic. 



The authors call for productivity gains on existing farmland to mitigate these threats, pointing out that actual cocoa yields are far below their theoretical maximums.



Improved soil fertility management and carefully calibrated fertilizer use offer practical ways to narrow these yield gaps.&nbsp;



Agroforestry, where cocoa grows alongside other tree species, also shows promise. Shade trees can moderate temperature extremes, regulate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humidity-increases-urban-heat-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">humidity</a>, and add new revenue streams to farmers’ operations.



“Choosing the right shade trees is essential. Some trees use too much water, exacerbating drought issues. It is crucial to select species suited to the local climate and soil conditions,” said Danaë Rozendaal, another researcher on the project.&nbsp;



Additional strategies include breeding cocoa plants resistant to drought and heat, as well as supporting farmers with practical training.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-outlook-on-chocolate-and-prices">Outlook on chocolate and prices</h2>



This research was produced through collaboration among several WUR groups - the Center for Crop Systems Analysis, Plant Production Systems Group, and Forest Ecology &amp; Forest Management Group - together with cocoa industry partners, research institutions, NGOs, and local governments under the CocoaSoils program.



Rising temperatures and erratic rainfall are already placing cocoa trees under stress, particularly in the Ivory Coast, resulting in reduced harvests.&nbsp;



Consumer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sweet-discovery-eating-chocolate-can-add-years-to-your-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chocolate</a> prices have risen in response, with some confectioners adding ingredients like cookie pieces to stretch their cocoa supply.



“I don’t think cocoa will become so scarce that chocolate letters will only be visible under a microscope in the future,” Anten said, “but the sector must adapt to the changing climate.”



The research into climate-related impacts on cocoa production across West and Central Africa is ongoing. Current studies are evaluating whether this core cocoa-producing region can keep up with climbing global demand while upholding EUDR requirements.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.agrformet.2025.110393" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Agricultural and Forest Meteorology</a>.



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Cocoa production in Africa is under extreme climate pressure 

Climate change is substantially affecting cocoa production in West and...

Guava, a standout among tropical fruits, is more than just a sweet delight. Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, guava can be enjoyed fresh, as juice, or in leaf-based brews.



Also known as Psidium guajava, guava is recognized for its potential to support digestion and strengthen the immune system, among other health benefits. 



In a recent <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667031322000409" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a>, Dr. Toluwani Tella from the <a href="https://ukzn.ac.za/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of KwaZulu-Natal</a> evaluated the effects of guava on diabetic rats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-taste-of-nature-s-fiber">A taste of nature's fiber</h2>



This fruit offers a generous amount of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-enough-fiber-prevents-cancer-in-a-surprising-way/">dietary fiber</a> that helps keep the gut in check. Many people enjoy it with the peel, which may encourage healthy bowel movements by providing extra roughage.



Experts suggest its fiber can reduce uncomfortable twinges linked to occasional heartburn. Guava adds a soothing element to meals without forcing strict dietary overhauls.



Those dealing with mild constipation may find it to be a gentle ally, since extra fiber adds bulk to waste. This naturally supports smoother digestion and helps avoid harsher interventions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-raising-the-body-s-defenses">Raising the body's defenses</h2>



Vitamin C sets guava apart from many fruits, offering immune support that helps keep the body on alert. This <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/148286a0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">micronutrient</a> bolsters normal defense mechanisms against everyday pressures.



When included in daily meals, guava is like a handy shield. It meets people’s need for a quick, nutritious choice whenever the weather shifts or stress levels rise.



Some individuals brew guava leaf tea for relief from sudden diarrhea. The astringent effects may tighten intestinal tissues and calm unruly digestion.



The fruit's potential to limit certain microbes aligns with research that examined the spasmolytic effect on rat uterine tissues. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-staying-on-track-with-weight-goals">Staying on track with weight goals</h2>



One guava often checks in at fewer than 60 calories, fitting easily into balanced diets. The natural <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/pectin" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pectin</a> content may help curb extra snacking by promoting fullness and satisfaction.



Some people rely on it as a light dessert, while others slice it for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/larger-snack-sizes-lead-to-quicker-eating-and-bigger-bites/">quick snacks</a>. This approach can reduce cravings for heavier sweets without stripping away enjoyment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-guava-and-skin-care">Guava and skin care</h2>



Pink or red varieties contain lycopene, often recognized for its capacity to help protect skin cells from internal stress. By moderating reactions caused by excess sun exposure, lycopene can support a calm complexion.



This benefit becomes stronger when combined with vitamin C, which boosts collagen production. Considering that collagen contributes to smoother texture, these nutrients might keep skin looking fresh over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-healthy-blood-pressure-and-cholesterol">Healthy blood pressure and cholesterol </h2>



Some <a href="http://www.ifrj.upm.edu.my/17%20(01)%202010/(10)%20IFRJ-2010-89-96%20Norazmir.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studies</a> link guava's polyphenols with more relaxed blood vessels and better sodium balance. One investigation on pink guava puree pointed to anti-hypertensive results in rats.



Potassium in this fruit encourages the body to flush out extra sodium. This balance may help the cardiovascular system maintain a calmer outlook under everyday pressures.



Guava’s soluble fiber helps manage cholesterol levels. LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels should be below 100 mg/dL, while HDL ("good") cholesterol levels should be at least 40 mg/dL for men and 50 mg/dL for women. One analysis in rats showed improved lipid profiles when red guava was part of their diet.&nbsp;



High-fiber intake may block some cholesterol from being fully absorbed. This allows the body to flush it out more easily through normal waste processes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-benefits-for-blood-sugar">Natural benefits for blood sugar</h2>



Individuals aiming for balanced glucose sometimes add guava leaves or fruit to their routine. 



In controlled studies led by Dr. Tella, diabetic rats responded positively to guava leaf extract - hinting at potential support for muscle glycogen storage.



The researchers also found that triterpenes and certain phenolics could influence enzyme activities linked to glucose use. This points to another avenue for those seeking plant-based approaches to daily wellness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simple-ways-to-enjoy-guava">Simple ways to enjoy guava</h2>



Many people like the fruit raw, but others prefer smoothies, homemade infusions, or satisfying desserts. The leaves can be simmered in about 17 fl oz of water to create a tea that some drink for calming support.&nbsp;



A quick juice involves blending two fresh fruits with a spoonful of mint and water. Adding a few ice cubes can bring out an even sweeter side.



Another easy option is to slice it into a salad or spoon it over yogurt. That pop of color and flavor can liven up the table without extra hassle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-daily-servings-of-guava">Daily servings of guava</h2>



Nutritionists commonly recommend two or three portions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-avocado-every-day-diet-quality-can-add-years-to-life-but-this-fruit-has-enemies/">fruit a day</a>. Guava easily fits that range, with each portion hovering around six to eight ounces.



People who crave variety like mixing different guava types. Red, yellow, and white styles each carry their own subtle differences in taste and nutrients.



This mix-and-match routine makes healthy eating feel less rigid. It lets individuals experiment with pleasant flavors and colorful meals.



A balanced diet lays the groundwork, and guava alone cannot do all the heavy lifting. Regular physical activity works in tandem with sensible eating plans for longer-term well-being.



It may also be wise to get professional advice when exploring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/which-dietary-changes-are-best-for-cancer-prevention/">dietary changes</a>. Ultimately, for those who want a user-friendly fruit, guava brings flavor, fiber, and a unique nutrient lineup.



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Guava is an underappreciated fruit with numerous health benefits

Guava, a standout among tropical fruits, is more than just...

Urban areas face rising temperatures and shrinking green spaces. Cities replace natural landscapes with concrete, making heat waves more intense. Wildlife struggles to find habitats, leading to biodiversity loss. 



In response, architects and ecologists explore solutions to make cities more livable. Green walls have emerged as a promising option.



These plant-covered facades do more than make buildings look better. They help cool urban areas and provide essential habitats for birds, insects, and other organisms.



A recent study led by Utrecht University ecologist Katharina Hecht provides scientific evidence of these benefits. The research compares green walls with bare <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chinas-great-green-wall-has-reached-a-new-milestone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">walls</a> and natural cliffs, shedding light on their ecological value.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-green-walls">Insights into green walls</h2>



The study, published in the journal Building and Environment, highlights the impact of green walls on urban cooling and biodiversity.



Hecht and her team worked with researchers from Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University and the Singapore-based company bioSEA. Together, they examined 20 green walls in Singapore’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fighting-coastal-erosion-electricity-turns-sand-into-a-sea-wall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban environment</a>.



"Green walls can be much more than just a decorative trend," said Hecht. Many construction companies and policymakers promote them, but solid scientific evidence has been lacking.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cooling-effects-in-cities">Cooling effects in cities</h2>



One of the study’s key findings is the ability of these walls to reduce temperatures. The researchers measured a cooling effect of up to 0.6–0.7 degrees Celsius between the front and back sides of these walls.



"This might sound like a small difference. But in the context of urban heat, even small reductions can lower energy costs and make buildings more comfortable to live and work in," said Hecht.



With increasing numbers of green walls, this cooling effect could help combat the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-how-climate-change-will-alter-plant-growth-cycles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban</a> heat island phenomenon.



Urban heat islands occur when cities absorb and retain heat, making them significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas. Green walls provide shade, reduce heat absorption, and improve thermal comfort in dense urban settings.



They also contribute to climate resilience by lowering reliance on air conditioning, reducing energy consumption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-urban-biodiversity-with-green-walls">Supporting urban biodiversity with green walls</h2>



Beyond cooling, green walls also enhance urban biodiversity. The researchers found that plant-covered <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-purposefully-move-alter-growth-direction-to-help-their-neighbors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">facades</a> hosted over 100 animal species, including insects, spiders, and birds. This is a stark contrast to non-vegetated walls, which support only a handful of species.



The study also compared green walls to natural cliffs to assess their effectiveness in replicating natural habitats. Natural cliffs, unsurprisingly, supported slightly more biodiversity. However, green walls still provided valuable shelter for many species.



"This shows that we can learn from nature’s design strategies to enhance man-made green walls," said Hecht. "They provide valuable habitats in places that would otherwise be inhospitable for many species."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-surrounding-greenery">Role of surrounding greenery</h2>



Hecht noted that plant-covered walls alone cannot maximize their ecological potential. The surrounding environment plays a crucial role in their effectiveness.



"What I found really interesting to confirm in our study is how important trees and other vegetation are," she said.



"The crowns of nearby trees and patches of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-defy-climate-change-through-acclimation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenery</a> serve as stepping stones. They allow bees, bugs, and even small birds to hop from tree to tree, and eventually reach the green walls."



Without a network of trees and vegetation, green walls may struggle to attract diverse species. Isolated green walls offer limited benefits compared to those integrated into larger green corridors. Urban planners and architects must consider the broader ecological landscape when designing green spaces.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-applications-beyond-the-tropics">Applications beyond the tropics</h2>



Although the study focused on Singapore’s tropical climate, Hecht believes the findings apply to temperate regions as well. She noted that the principles of green wall design remain consistent across different climates.



"The principles would be similar," said Hecht. "Although we would need to tailor the plant species and specific designs to the local biodiversity and weather conditions."



In temperate regions, green walls may naturally be colonized by mosses, perennials, and local climbers. These plants could influence the types of species that thrive. Architects and ecologists must adapt their designs to match local climate conditions while preserving the ecological benefits of green walls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-research-on-green-walls">Expanding research on green walls</h2>



The study highlights the need for more research on green walls, particularly in temperate regions. 



Earlier studies in the Netherlands, conducted by students from Utrecht University, have shown promising results. However, Hecht emphasizes that more empirical data is necessary to confirm the long-term benefits of green walls in different climates.



She is already leading a follow-up project under Utrecht University’s "Pathways to Sustainability" program. Her team is developing a digital system to collect and compare data on green walls from different locations. 



By analyzing data from multiple climates, the researchers aim to refine plant-covered wall designs and maximize their ecological potential.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-a-greener-future">Building a greener future</h2>



The foundation of this research was laid by Leanne Haan, a master's student at Utrecht University. She conducted the initial fieldwork in Singapore, spending eight months collecting data.



Her work included trekking through urban parks to gather information that helped launch the research project.



Haan’s efforts not only provided critical data but also established strong collaboration between Utrecht University and Singapore-based researchers. The success of this study highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research in creating sustainable urban solutions.



As cities continue to grow, integrating green walls into urban planning could help mitigate climate change, reduce heat, and support biodiversity. With more research and innovation, these living facades could become a standard feature in the cities of the future.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0360132324011508?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Building and Environment</a>.



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Green walls cool cities and create urban habitats

Urban areas face rising temperatures and shrinking green spaces. Cities...

Over the years, people have turned to licorice not just for a sugary pick-me-up but also for various health-related reasons. Ancient societies in Egypt, Rome, and Greece relied on this root to cure colds and other ailments. Today, there’s growing curiosity about how this medicinal plant might help the body.



Licorice contains a unique compound called <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/glycyrrhizin" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glycyrrhizin</a>, which has been studied for its influence on the immune system, digestion, and even mood. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-licorice-is-getting-attention">Why licorice is getting attention</h2>



Licorice root has been used in therapeutic settings for thousands of years. It is cultivated in regions across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, where people have appreciated its sweet flavor for both confectionery and health uses.



Modern researchers have examined whether consuming licorice regularly might support respiratory function or offer some relief for sore throats. Some of these effects may stem from its anti-inflammatory properties, which appear to calm irritated tissues.



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



People often mention licorice as a remedy for upset stomachs. Early research suggested it may help by boosting mucus production in the stomach, which could protect the lining from acid irritation. Supporters of the root also claim it can ease indigestion and reduce gas.



The challenge begins if portions get too large. In that case, licorice might put certain individuals at risk for adverse effects like elevated blood pressure or lower potassium levels, which can trigger problems with heart rhythm.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effects-of-licorice-on-mood">Effects of licorice on mood</h2>



Some people have used licorice for a mood boost. It contains a range of compounds that might offer support to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-has-its-own-mini-brain-that-controls-its-beat/">nervous system</a>, including nutrients that can influence one’s energy and outlook.



Still, experts recommend staying aware of personal tolerance levels. For some people, consuming licorice can cause jittery feelings and unusual heart activity, so they should not eat too much licorice candy or tea.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-caution-around-certain-health-conditions">Caution around certain health conditions</h2>



There is evidence that licorice can play a helpful role for individuals working through respiratory issues or trying to quit smoking.



Many turn to the root as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/e-cigarettes-linked-to-increased-risk-of-heart-failure/">substitute for cigarettes</a>, but that approach should be weighed against any predisposition to high blood pressure.



“Licorice root is generally considered safe as a food ingredient, but it can cause serious side effects when consumed in large amounts or for long periods of time,” noted the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (<a href="https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/licorice-root">NCCIH</a>). 



Individuals with kidney issues or heart ailments may want to avoid heavy licorice consumption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-excessive-licorice-intake">Excessive licorice intake</h2>



Dr. Decio Armanini from the Endocrinology Unit at the <a href="https://www.unipd.it/en/university-hospital" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University Hospital of Padua</a> has conducted extensive research on the effects of licorice consumption, particularly its impact on hormones. He also warns about the potential impacts of eating too much licorice. 



For example, glycyrrhizin can lead to an increase in cortisol levels by inhibiting the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2. 



This enzyme normally helps convert active cortisol into its inactive form, cortisone. As a result, excessive licorice intake can mimic symptoms of conditions like Cushing's syndrome.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-the-benefits-and-risks">Balancing the benefits and risks</h2>



Licorice has traveled across centuries and cultures as a multiuse herb. The root can be an ally when used wisely, but it can also become an unwelcome influence if overused.



Moderation is the key. Some people have reported great results by taking small amounts of licorice in lozenges to soothe sore throats, especially after medical procedures. Others find it helpful in managing mild digestive troubles.



If you're interested in exploring licorice for its potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-tea-delays-biological-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health benefits</a>, consider starting with small servings of high-quality licorice teas or dietary supplements from reputable sources. 



Licorice contains compounds that can influence various bodily functions, including blood pressure and electrolyte balance. Because of this, it's important to monitor for any changes in heart function, blood pressure, or fluid retention, especially if you have a history of hypertension, heart disease, or kidney issues. 



Consulting with a healthcare provider before incorporating licorice into your routine is advisable, as it can interact with certain medications and may not be suitable for everyone.



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'Candy' plant has revitalizing effects on the body, but only in moderation

Over the years, people have turned to licorice not just...

It’s widely believed that eating animal products gave early human relatives a boost in developing larger brains and stronger bodies.&nbsp;Many have argued that meat-based diets launched a chain reaction in our evolution, and that protein intake was linked to bigger brains and higher intelligence.



But new research is presenting a different picture of some ancient relatives: they might not have been munching on meat as often as we assumed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tooth-enamel-reveals-a-plant-diet">Tooth enamel reveals a plant diet</h2>



Researchers analyzed tooth enamel in seven <a href="https://www.nature.com/scitable/knowledge/library/australopithecus-and-kin-145077614/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australopithecus</a> specimens uncovered in <a href="https://popular-archaeology.com/article/sterkfontein-a-history-of-evolution-in-the-cradle-of-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sterkfontein, South Africa</a>, and found that these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-had-surprising-diets-3-5-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early hominins</a> consumed mostly plant-based foods.&nbsp;



The work used a method for measuring stable <a href="https://wwwrcamnl.wr.usgs.gov/isoig/period/n_iig.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nitrogen isotopes</a> in fossilized enamel. Specialists in human origins have looked to nitrogen isotopes for diet clues in more recent remains, but the technology has now been applied to samples that are millions of years old.



“Tooth enamel is the hardest tissue of the mammalian body and can preserve the isotopic fingerprint of an animal’s diet for millions of years,” explained <a href="https://www.mpic.de/person/123706/2285" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Tina Lüdecke</a>, a geochemist at the <a href="https://www.wits.ac.za/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of the Witwatersrand</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meat-free-diet-challenges-big-brain-hypothesis">Meat-free diet challenges big brain hypothesis</h2>



Many hypotheses <a href="https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/10.1086/204350" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">link</a> meat consumption to expanded brain size in our lineage. Some researchers <a href="https://nature.berkeley.edu/miltonlab/pdfs/meateating.pdf">note</a> that dense protein sources could have contributed to physiological changes, allowing for more complex cognition.&nbsp;



The findings from Sterkfontein, however, indicate that these particular Australopithecus individuals didn’t eat a lot of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-diets-early-humans-richer-berries-nuts-plants-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meat</a>.



Their nitrogen isotope ratios aligned with those of herbivores from the same timeframe, hinting at a diet that was plant-based rather than meat-centric.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nitrogen-isotope-method">Nitrogen isotope method</h2>



Scientists previously faced a big hurdle: organic matter degrades in bones older than about 200,000 years. 



This new <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10082005/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">approach</a> recovers nitrogen signals locked within tooth enamel, and can give us answers about diet dating much further back in time.



Researchers examined the enamel from these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stone-age-diet-deer-and-trout-were-on-the-menu-10000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hominins</a> and other animals. Herbivores showed distinct nitrogen isotope signatures compared to carnivores. 



The isotope ratios in Australopithecus enamel specimens looked much more like the ratios found in the herbivore group, suggesting that the hominins had a limited meat intake.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-humans-did-not-have-a-meat-based-diet">Early humans did not have a meat-based diet</h2>



Legumes, seeds, and insects could still have been on the menu. Some <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2001/01/17/science/tools-suggest-early-human-termite-diet.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">experts</a> think termites might have been an occasional source of protein. But the <a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/news/2022/january/human-ancestor-homo-erectus-probably-wasnt-carnivore-we-thought.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scientists</a> noted that nothing in the results indicates frequent or heavy hunting of mammals.&nbsp;



The findings fit with other archaeological evidence that hasn’t yet confirmed systematic meat consumption among early hominins at this period in time.



“Our method opens up exciting possibilities for understanding human evolution,” said <a href="https://www.mpic.de/4493238/alfredo-martinez-garcia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Martínez-García</a>, a researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry, who <a href="https://www.mpg.de/17039594/annual-report-2020.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emphasized</a> the significance of this approach.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greater-context-in-hominin-evolution">Greater context in hominin evolution</h2>



Australopithecus is a well-known genus of early hominins that walked upright and lived in parts of Africa between roughly 4 and 2 million years ago.



<a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/australopithecus-afarensis-lucy-species.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lucy</a>, discovered in 1974, is the most famous example of these ancient relatives. They had smaller brains than modern humans but were already showing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-hunter-gatherer-ancestors-did-much-more-gathering-than-hunting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">certain traits</a> that set them apart from other primates, such as upright posture.&nbsp;



Speculations about their eating habits have varied, with some thinking they might have combined plant foods with regular meat. This new evidence challenges that notion for at least one population of Australopithecus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-it-matters">Why it matters</h2>



Trying to unravel hominin diets helps anthropologists figure out what shaped our bodies and minds. Did meat-eating diets truly set the stage for rapid growth in brain volume and sophisticated tools?



Or were these changes linked to other factors like social cooperation, broader food choices, or climatic shifts? 



Understanding that australopithecines didn’t rely heavily on meat raises fresh questions about what triggered key developments in our lineage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fossils-reveal-plant-based-diet-not-meat">Fossils reveal plant-based diet, not meat</h2>



Sterkfontein has been a hotbed of discoveries for nearly a century. 



Excavations at this <a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/915" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNESCO World Heritage Site</a> have produced many fossil finds, including some of the earliest evidence of bipedal hominins. Even after so many decades, the site continues to surprise.



“The research provides clear evidence that its diet did not contain significant amounts of meat,” said <a href="https://www.stonybrook.edu/commcms/anthropology/faculty-and-staff/stratford-d.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Dominic Stratford</a>, Director of Research at the Sterkfontein Caves. 



Studies of early hominin diets will keep evolving as technology improves. Analyzing tooth enamel for nitrogen might open a doorway to insights about other ancient species, and shed light on their place in the food chain.



That, in turn, informs the story of our family tree.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adq7315" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Meat wasn't on the menu for our ancient hominin ancestors

It’s widely believed that eating animal products gave early human...

species in Cephalotaceae