Tiny microplastic fragments, often smaller than a grain of rice, are turning up in surprising places. From city streets to remote oceans, they persist in the air, water, and soil. 



Scientists have learned that these particles can also invade the human body, showing up in organs that keep us alive. 



For years, researchers have warned us about the possible dangers microplastics pose to animals, our food sources, and human health. Now a fresh study suggests even plants are feeling the pressure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-photosynthesis-and-microplastics">Plants, photosynthesis, and microplastics</h2>



This new research from <a href="https://www.5gyres.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">5 Gyres Institute</a> offers new clues about how these plastic particles affect photosynthesis. 



The team gathered over 3,200 records from across the globe, focusing on how tiny bits of microplastics alter photosynthesis by changing the way <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/details-photosynthesis-water-viewed-atomic-level-cryo-microscope/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants use sunlight</a> to produce energy. 



Their analysis spans common food crops and aquatic species, highlighting concerns about weakened growth. 



For communities that rely on healthy harvests and marine resources, these findings add a fresh dimension to the worldwide plastic conversation.



“It’s really scary,” says Marcus Eriksen, a marine scientist at the 5 Gyres Institute, a nonprofit plastic pollution research organization, who was not involved in the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-microplastics-spread-far-and-wide">How microplastics spread far and wide</h2>



Most microplastics come from everyday sources. Plastic bottles, packaging, and synthetic clothing shed fibers that break into smaller pieces. Rain and wind carry these particles into rivers, and eventually they end up in oceans. 



In agricultural fields, plastic mulch or irrigation systems contribute fragments that seep into the soil. Over time, these bits degrade further, leading to a steady accumulation in places we least expect. 



This constant spread worries experts because smaller sizes mean they can slip into living organisms more easily.



Researchers have found these particles in fish, shellfish, and even table salt. In recent years, labs have also identified plastic remnants in bottled water and tap supplies. 



While ongoing investigations continue to measure how widespread they are, one thing is clear: once plastic breaks down, it does not disappear. That lingering presence has potential consequences for all life on Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-impede-photosynthesis">Microplastics impede photosynthesis</h2>



In this new analysis, researchers show that microplastics reduce photosynthesis by 7 to 12% across different plant species. 



A computer model backs this up, indicating that plastic particles can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-photosynthesis-could-transform-power-generation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lower chlorophyll</a> levels by 11 to 13%. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gardening-hack-called-green-gold-chlorophyll-works-like-magic-for-houseplants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chlorophyll</a> is the green pigment that helps plants capture sunlight for food production, so any dip in its presence can affect overall growth.



Every year, this pollution could cause a loss of 109 to 361 million metric tons of crops and 1 to 24 million metric tons of seafood, according to the study. 



Because of microplastic buildup, global harvests may drop by 4 to 13% yearly, and food from the ocean could decline by up to 7%. 



Even minor disruptions to plant growth may have ripple effects on human nutrition and economies that rely on farming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-for-the-food-supply">Challenges for the food supply</h2>



Beyond plants, these particles also affect marine life, which many communities rely on for protein. Scientists report that if <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastic-pollution-is-everywhere-even-in-newborns-and-getting-worse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastic pollution</a> continues unchecked, seafood yields could suffer even further. 



They are associated with an increase in people’s risk of heart attack and stroke, and they have been found to hamper growth and reproduction in multiple species. 



Worries about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-are-in-a-race-against-time-to-save-our-food-supply-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food safety and supply</a> also arise when these pollutants accumulate in organisms that people eat.



Researchers suggest that a modest 13% reduction in these particles could prevent the loss of up to 47 million metric tons of crops and 3 million metric<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-particles-found-in-99-of-tested-seafood-samples/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> tons of seafood</a> each year, translating to a 30% cut in overall harm. 



This projection highlights the importance of tightening plastic regulations and improving waste management to protect food resources.



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



Reduced photosynthesis does not only <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-awakening-arctic-food-webs-are-transforming-from-green-to-brown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disrupt food webs</a>. When plants capture less carbon dioxide, there is less natural removal of this greenhouse gas from the atmosphere. 



In many climate strategies, forests and marine algae are expected to absorb significant amounts of carbon in the coming decades. If plastic particles undermine that process, climate models may need to be revised.



Most projections assume stable plant performance over time. Any drop in growth or carbon uptake could make <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-the-world-is-on-track-for-a-catastrophic-level-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a> harder to control. 



With ecosystems already under stress, additional strain from microscopic plastic fragments raises concerns about future carbon storage in forests, grasslands, and kelp beds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sounding-the-alarm">Sounding the alarm</h2>



The study’s authors emphasize the need for international efforts to address plastic waste, pointing out that large pieces eventually degrade into smaller and more invasive forms.



A global treaty on plastic issues has been in discussion since 2017, yet recent negotiations concluded without a formal agreement.



Marine biologist Richard Thompson, who specializes in microplastic pollution at the <a href="https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Plymouth</a> in England and was not involved in the study, notes that delaying action only increases the risks.



“If we don’t take action now,” he adds, “within the next 70 to 100 years, we’ll see much wide-scale ecological harm.”



Researchers say that lowering even a small amount of microplastic pollution could help protect crops, preserve marine life, and support our climate goals.



Taking action now can guard our health and ensure a healthier environment for generations to come, which doesn’t seem like too much to ask of humanity.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2423957122">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Sounding the alarm: Microplastics are disrupting  photosynthesis around the world

Tiny microplastic fragments, often smaller than a grain of rice,...

With spring approaching, many people are already considering which flowers to plant. Flowers do more than simply make gardens look nice. They are an important source of food for birds and insects, particularly wild bees.



In cities, the appropriate combination of flowers can be the difference between healthy bee populations and unhealthy ones.



A recent study has explored how the properties of flowers affect urban <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flower-strips-can-boost-wild-bee-populations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bee populations</a>. 



The researchers discovered that a diverse range of flower sizes and shapes is crucial for supporting wild bee populations. A more varied floral landscape promotes a richer and more abundant bee community.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-flower-shape-and-size-matter">Why flower shape and size matter</h2>



Study co-author Carly Ziter is an associate professor in the Department of Biology in the Faculty of Arts and Science at <a href="https://www.concordia.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Concordia University</a>.



"We know that flowers are an important source of nutrition for bees, but not all flowers are created equal," said Professor Ziter.



"Having a high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-secrets-of-flower-diversity-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diversity of flowers</a> is a key to supporting bee populations, but our research goes one step further to show a possible mechanism: that having a diversity of floral species is important because they have different shapes and sizes."



Flowers store <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honeybees-carrying-nectar-avoid-overheating-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nectar</a> within their corolla - the tube-like structure formed by a ring of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-engineer-their-petals-to-be-visually-attractive-to-bees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">petals</a>. Different bee species have different tongue lengths, which means some bees can only access nectar from specific flower shapes.



"This follows the idea of size-matching, where corollas are the right size for a certain type of bee’s proboscis or tongue, allowing it to effectively connect to the flower’s nectar," noted Professor Ziter.



"So, whether a bee has a short or longer proboscis, they will be able to access the nutrition they need if there are multiple kinds of flower morphology nearby."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-bees-in-the-city">Tracking bees in the city</h2>



The team collected data in July 2020 from 16 sites across the Island of Montreal, including community gardens, nature parks, and cemeteries.



The researchers recorded nearly 2,000 bee samples and identified 150 different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-that-90-of-flowering-plant-species-rely-on-animal-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species of flowers</a> within small two-by-two-meter plots.



The density of flowers was measured, and the size of each corolla was documented using digital calipers.



A total of 94 different species of bees were observed during the study. While nectar samples were also collected, no firm connection was established between sugar content and bee diversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-diversity-and-the-food-web">Plant diversity and the food web</h2>



"We wanted to see if there was an optimal value for corolla traits," said Professor Ziter. "Was it better to have small corollas, medium ones, or a diversity of them? The results showed quite strongly that having a diversity of corolla sizes was important."



Thriving bee populations play a vital role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robotic-insects-may-be-the-future-of-farming-and-plant-pollination/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollination</a>, supporting entire ecosystems and sustaining food supplies.



According to Professor Ziter, the study supports the belief that a diversity of flowers impacts the next trophic level, which contributes to an ecosystem’s food web in a way that goes far beyond bees. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-make-your-garden-bee-friendly">How to make your garden bee-friendly</h2>



City planners, gardeners, and anyone interested in promoting biodiversity can apply these findings in practical ways.



"If you are planting, try to think about what makes these species different. Are they different colors? Are they different sizes? Do they bloom at different times? The more you can think about these different axes of variety in your own garden, the more you are likely to be better off in terms of supporting biodiversity," said Professor Ziter.



By planting a diverse mix of flowers, urban residents can play a small but significant role in sustaining local bee populations and contributing to a healthier environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choosing-the-right-flowers-for-bees">Choosing the right flowers for bees</h2>



For a bee-friendly garden, native plants are often the best choice since they have co-evolved with local species and provide the most suitable nectar and pollen.



Flowers with open, accessible petals are ideal for short-tongued bees, while tubular flowers cater to species with longer proboscises.



Bloom timing is another crucial factor. By planting a variety of flowers that bloom at different times throughout the growing season, gardeners can ensure a steady food supply for bees from early spring to late fall. 



Perennial flowers such as coneflowers, milkweed, and goldenrod are excellent choices, as they return each year and require minimal maintenance.



Avoiding pesticide use and opting for organic gardening practices further enhances the bee-friendly environment. 



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/eap.3067" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecological Applications</a>.



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Bee-friendly gardening: Why flower diversity is so important

With spring approaching, many people are already considering which flowers...

Grasslands, once vibrant ecosystems teeming with diverse plant and animal life, are vanishing at an alarming rate. Land-use changes, urban expansion, and agricultural development have led to their decline. Abandoned grasslands can be restored through proper management, but full recovery takes longer than expected.



A study from <a href="https://www.kobe-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe University</a> reveals that even after 75 years of continuous management, restored grasslands do not match the biodiversity of ancient ones. The slow return of specialized pollinators plays a key role in this delay. 



These findings highlight the need to protect old <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restored-grasslands-bring-more-peace-to-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grasslands</a>, even when they serve modern purposes like ski slopes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-restored-grasslands-lag-behind">Why restored grasslands lag behind</h2>



Grasslands undergo massive ecological shifts when left unmanaged. Woody vegetation overtakes the landscape, reducing the diversity of native grassland species. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/controlled-fires-can-help-us-save-grasslands-from-disappearing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Restoration efforts</a> involve clearing invasive plants and reintroducing traditional management practices. 



While this process improves biodiversity, researchers have found that restored grasslands still struggle to match the richness of ancient ones.



“The reasons for this are not really clear and satisfying solutions have not been proposed,” noted Kobe University ecologist Ushimaru Atushi. 



Even when restored, grasslands seem unable to support the same variety of plant species as those that have been maintained for centuries. This realization led researchers to investigate the role of pollinators in the recovery process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollinators-and-grassland-recovery">Pollinators and grassland recovery</h2>



Pollinators play an essential role in maintaining plant diversity. Without them, many plant species struggle to reproduce. Insect-pollinated plants, in particular, take longer to return after <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-grassland-ecosystems-handle-climate-change-better-than-others/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grassland</a> abandonment. 



Ushimaru and doctoral student Hirayama Gaku set out to examine how pollinator communities differ between old and newly restored grasslands.



The team selected ski slopes in Nagano Prefecture for their research. These sites provided a unique opportunity to study grasslands of different ages within a relatively small area.



“There is no place better suited to survey restored grasslands with very different management durations within a relatively small area than ski slopes,” noted Hirayama.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-75-years-is-not-enough">Why 75 years is not enough</h2>



The research, published in the Journal of Applied Ecology, confirms that even after 75 years, restored grasslands do not support the same pollinator diversity as ancient ones. While plant species may recover, pollinators remain less specialized and less efficient in transferring pollen.



Over time, the pollinator community gradually shifts, becoming more specialized. However, this process takes centuries rather than decades. “The finding shows that once valuable old grasslands are lost, their restoration cannot be achieved quickly," said Hirayama.



The problem isn’t the number of pollinators - it’s their diversity. Restored grasslands welcome flies and hoverflies, generalists that mix pollen between different plants.



In contrast, ancient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grasslands-crucial-role-global-agriculture-environment-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grasslands</a> support more bees and butterflies, which specialize in pollinating specific plants. This specialization ensures that pollen reaches the right flowers, increasing plant reproduction success.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategies-for-restoring-grasslands">Strategies for restoring grasslands</h2>



Restoring grasslands isn’t just about plants; pollinators matter too. Ancient grasslands give specialized pollinators a place to thrive. Without them, rare plant species struggle. 



Protecting these old ecosystems keeps biodiversity alive and flourishing. Ushimaru suggests that natural restoration alone may not be enough.



“It may also indicate that grassland restoration should not just be left to nature, but could require active human involvement such as by sowing seeds or by planting seedlings of native bee- and butterfly-pollinated grassland plants,” said Ushimaru.



This approach could speed up the recovery process, helping pollinator communities establish themselves more quickly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-conservation-efforts">Long-term conservation efforts</h2>



Restoring grasslands requires patience, commitment, and proactive strategies. The findings from Kobe University demonstrate that even a lifetime of restoration is not enough to fully rebuild lost ecosystems. Old grasslands, shaped by centuries of ecological interactions, provide irreplaceable value to biodiversity.



​This research was supported by the <a href="https://www.nagaofoundation.or.jp/e/research/research.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Japan Science Society</a>, the Nagao Natural Environment Foundation, the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, and the <a href="https://www.erca.go.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Restoration and Conservation Agency</a>.​



The study was conducted in collaboration with researchers from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tsukuba.ac.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tsukuba</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.u-toyama.ac.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toyama</a>. Their work reinforces the need for long-term conservation efforts, ensuring that grasslands remain a thriving part of our natural world.



The study is published in the <a href="https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/1365-2664.70017" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Applied Ecology</a>. 



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Restored grasslands could take centuries to fully recover

Grasslands, once vibrant ecosystems teeming with diverse plant and animal...

A recent investigation shows that large, unbroken forests support more biodiversity than fragmented landscapes. 



While ecologists have long known that habitat loss contributes to declines in biodiversity within forest remnants, a debate persisted about whether conserving several smaller plots or one larger tract is more beneficial. 



This study - published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-08688-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a> and directed by <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a> (U-M) ecologist Thiago Gonçalves-Souza – takes a definitive stance, indicating that fragmentation undercuts <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forest-biodiversity-benefits-from-large-herbivores-like-elephants-and-moose/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> on multiple levels.



“Fragmentation is bad,” said study co-author Professor Nate Sanders. “This paper clearly shows that fragmentation has negative effects on biodiversity across scales. 



“That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try to conserve small fragments when we can with our limited conservation dollars, but we need to be wise about conservation decisions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-perspective-on-fragmentation">Global perspective on fragmentation</h2>



The experts examined 4,006 species of vertebrates, invertebrates, and plants gathered from 37 sites worldwide, thereby generating a global overview of biodiversity differences between continuous and fragmented forests. 



The findings suggest a significant drop in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-species-diversity-makes-forests-more-productive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species diversity</a> within fragmented zones, illustrating a 13.6% decline at smaller (patch) scales, and 12.1% at broader (landscape) scales.



Additionally, the researchers noticed that generalized species - those flexible enough to thrive in a wide range of settings - tend to dominate in fragments. In contrast, more specialized organisms flourish in intact forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alpha-beta-and-gamma-diversity">Alpha, beta, and gamma diversity</h2>



To illustrate the varied impacts of fragmentation, the team looked at alpha, beta, and gamma diversity. Alpha diversity refers to how many species occur in a single piece of forest, whereas beta diversity measures how different species compositions are from one patch to another. 



Gamma diversity represents total biodiversity across a larger region, whether that region is made of disjointed fragments or an uninterrupted forest expanse.



“The heart of the debate is that people who argue that fragmentation isn’t so bad say that because you have isolated habitats, you have different species composition, which means at a large scale, it’s good. If they are different, we can assume that the gamma diversity is going to be higher,” said Gonçalves-Souza.



“They say the opposite for large tracts of land: because this is a continuous and homogeneous patch, the species composition is too similar.”



Previously, much research only covered one aspect of diversity or compared a few continuous forests against numerous fragments, potentially skewing the findings. The new study tackled this imbalance with thorough analyses and corrected for variations in sampling.



“One reason that this has been such a long-standing and unresolved debate is that we simply have not had the appropriate data and statistical tools to systematically evaluate the question at both smaller and larger scales,” noted Jonathan Chase, a professor at the <a href="https://www.idiv.de/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">German Center for Integrative Biodiversity Research</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fragmentation-s-clear-impact">Fragmentation’s clear impact</h2>



Gonçalves-Souza and colleagues found that fragmentation lowers species numbers across all groups, and that heightened beta diversity in smaller forest fragments does not compensate for the overall loss of species variety at the wider landscape scale.



“This paper resolves a half-century old debate about how to conserve biodiversity in natural areas, one started by scientific luminaries including E.O. Wilson and Jared Diamond,” said Nick Haddad, a researcher at <a href="https://msu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michigan State University</a>.



Alongside reduced biodiversity, scientists argue that fragmentation can also threaten carbon sequestration in forests. 



“People are also comparing these two situations and finding that we are losing the ability for landscapes to store more carbon in fragmented landscapes,” Gonçalves-Souza said. “Fragmented landscapes are not only going to affect biodiversity by decreasing alpha and gamma diversity, but it also has implications for carbon stock as well.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-future-conservation-efforts">Rethinking future conservation efforts</h2>



Ultimately, Gonçalves-Souza hopes that the study’s results will move the conservation community beyond debates about whether multiple small fragments or a single extensive forest is preferable. Instead, the authors push for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forest-restoration-aids-humans-nature-climate-together/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest restoration</a> as a top priority.



“I don’t know if it’s useful to think about continuous vs. fragmented landscapes. We need to protect biodiversity and I think this debate is not helping to actually support conservation,” he said. 



“In many, many countries there aren’t many large, intact forests remaining. Therefore, our focus should be on planting new forests and restoring increasingly degraded habitats. Restoration is crucial for the future, more so than debating whether it’s better to have one large forest or many smaller fragments.”



With many forest ecosystems already facing pressures- from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainforests-replanted-seedlings-after-logging-do-not-recover-well/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">logging</a> and agriculture to climate change - restoration may be the pivotal step to ensure that habitats regain some of their lost ecological complexity. 



By renewing expanses of continuous forest wherever possible, conservationists can maximize carbon storage while also supporting the wide variety of species needed for healthy, enduring ecosystems.



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Large, undisturbed forests support greater biodiversity 

A recent investigation shows that large, unbroken forests support more...

Chocolate is a comfort food for many people and a symbol of happiness in countless cultures. For years, farmers and scientists have collaborated to refine this treasured <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-farming-could-save-the-future-of-chocolate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a>, but new evidence shows there is more to its story than meets the eye.



Experts have been analyzing genetic details that trace the cacao tree’s past to a surprising point in time. <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Daniel-Tineo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Daniel Tineo</a>, from the National University Toribio Rodríguez de Mendoza, led a study that used chloroplast genome data to examine when and how Theobroma cacao diversified.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chocolate-s-place-in-nature">Chocolate’s place in nature</h2>



Cacao belongs to the Malvaceae family, which also includes hibiscus and cotton. This group of plants has a history going back millions of years, and reflecting a long process of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chocolate-and-cocoa-prices-have-doubled-in-the-past-year-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adaptation</a> and survival.



“It can be inferred that T. cacao diverged at approximately 7.55 Ma, and it is highly likely that T. cacao populations diversified during the Pliocene or Miocene,” explained Tineo. 



Two main factors appear to have played a role in shaping the trees we see today. First, their <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/chloroplast-genome" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chloroplast genomes</a> carry signs of gradual change, which is common in species that extend across tropical regions. Second, environmental pressures likely promoted different genetic traits in various localities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-insights-to-save-chocolate">Genetic insights to save chocolate </h2>



The chloroplast genome, often called <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/chloroplast-dna" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cpDNA</a>, is inherited in a predictable way in most plants. This trait gives scientists a clear view of family relationships, even within the same species.



One gene, named <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/srep08348" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ycf1</a>, turned out to be important because it showed more differences among cacao plants than other commonly studied genetic regions. By examining these differences, researchers hope to spot unique traits that may improve the flavor, resilience, or productivity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cocoa-production-in-africa-is-under-extreme-climate-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cacao varieties</a>.



This approach might help breeders develop trees that survive better in changing climates. It may also allow them to detect disease-resistant lines, thus cutting down on the need for chemical treatments and on farm losses.



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



Farmers today face pests, diseases, and market uncertainty. Learning about cacao’s ancient lineage is not just for academic interest; it can also guide solutions that reduce farming risks.



The deeper a plant’s genetic roots, the more variation it hides in its DNA. This variation supplies fresh building blocks for traits like drought tolerance, flavor, and disease resistance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-benefits-for-farmers">Practical benefits for farmers</h2>



Thousands of smallholders grow cacao as a main or side income. When farmers tap into genetically diverse planting materials, their crops can adapt more effectively to different environments.



A broader gene pool also lowers the chance that a single disease outbreak will devastate cacao plants in an entire region. Strengthening genetic tools for farmers promotes stable harvests and consistently better beans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-breeding-methods">Modern breeding methods</h2>



Classic breeding methods rely on observing which trees yield the best crops. Now, molecular tools add a scientific boost by marking the genes that truly matter.



When breeders target specific genes - like ycf1 - they can make more precise matches between strong, disease-tolerant varieties and those with desired flavors. This level of detail speeds up the long process of developing improved trees.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-tradition-with-discovery">Balancing tradition with discovery</h2>



Farmers in Latin America, Africa, and Asia have nurtured cacao for generations. Their local expertise is valuable when it comes to spotting subtle differences among trees.



Collaboration between traditional growers and research institutions bridges technology and cultural wisdom. This approach promotes new partnerships that benefit everyone, from growers to chocolate enthusiasts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-the-future-of-chocolate">Protecting the future of chocolate </h2>



Scientists still do not fully understand how <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-022-05288-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nuclear or mitochondrial data</a> compare with chloroplast results. More work is needed to fill the gaps left by incomplete samples from various parts of the tropics.



Some lines may carry rare genetic elements waiting to be explored. Locating these hidden genes could reveal new ways to manage diseases and keep farms flourishing.



Cacao stands at a crossroads of heritage, commerce, and science. Studies suggest that this plant’s DNA is more varied and ancient than was once believed, hinting that there may be more secrets in its cells.



Ongoing research may answer questions about how different cacao types emerged and how they can be preserved. The bigger picture promises a future where growers and chocolate lovers share the rewards of knowledge-driven innovation.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0316148" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS One</a>.



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Can chocolate survive? DNA research may help save cacao trees

Chocolate is a comfort food for many people and a...

Many of us enjoy a banana without a second thought, but new research suggests that rising global temperatures could make this simple pleasure harder to come by.



Researchers have determined that large parts of Latin America and the Caribbean could be unable to sustain banana <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/agroforestry-could-transform-farming-in-the-midwest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">production</a> for export by 2080. The study was led by <a href="https://experts.exeter.ac.uk/22744-dan-bebber" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dan Bebber</a> from the University of Exeter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-supply-landscape">Shifting supply landscape</h2>



Bananas are a key export crop worth $11 billion. They power the economies of many nations that rely on steady harvests and predictable trade relationships.



These recent projections show that climate change threatens about 60% of current growing regions. Economic setbacks and job losses in these areas could follow if swift action is not taken.



Producers face multiple uncertainties, from rising temperatures to unpredictable rainfall. Some farmers are already noticing shifts in planting schedules and increased difficulties in keeping fields <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robotic-insects-may-be-the-future-of-farming-and-plant-pollination/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">productive</a>.



Experts warn that these changes could create a chain reaction for global markets. This scenario is particularly concerning for people who depend on bananas for both nutrition and income.



Scientists note that shifting temperatures could also allow pests to flourish. This change puts more pressure on growers who have to adapt to new threats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-ripple-effects">Economic ripple effects</h2>



Banana exports are a major source of revenue in certain countries. Without them, families and entire communities would be forced to seek new ways to earn a living.



Traders and distributors also stand to lose if volumes drop or if producers relocate to different areas. Businesses that rely on a consistent supply risk losing profit margins.



Transportation networks near ports highlight how reliant this industry is on accessible shipping. Any disruption in that setup could prolong delivery times and raise costs.



Analysts highlight that this fruit’s supply chain has always balanced on slim margins. A sudden climate-related shortfall can send waves across multiple markets.



Money for new technology often goes to bigger operations first. Smaller farms lack the resources to handle sudden shifts in weather or market demands.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-temperatures-hurt-bananas">Rising temperatures hurt bananas</h2>



Rising temperatures are a central factor behind banana production declines. Many varieties cannot thrive when daytime heat moves beyond their comfort zone.



Intense heat can reduce pollination and slow growth, forcing higher water usage and more stress on plants. Some farmers implement irrigation, but that introduces extra costs.



These difficulties have already prompted fears about productivity. Some areas might become completely unsuitable if average temperatures continue to climb.



Researchers have tied these temperature spikes to broader global warming <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">patterns</a>. They say more extreme heat events may appear if <a href="https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/sources-greenhouse-gas-emissions" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas emissions</a> remain high.



Some producers explore shade-grown systems to reduce scorching, but this method can limit large-scale operations due to space and management <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-cover-crops-may-be-the-future-of-sustainable-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">requirements</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-socioeconomic-stumbling-blocks">Socioeconomic stumbling blocks</h2>



Adaptation is not simply a matter of finding new farmland. Many plantations are located in densely populated areas where labor is available.



Moving operations to less populated zones sounds logical, but shipping routes and basic infrastructure remain essential. Building new roads and port facilities is no small feat.



Limited finances often block these developments. Wealthier regions might upgrade quickly, while smaller producers struggle to keep up.



Efforts like training programs could help, but they require financial backing and stable governance. Local workers also need assurance of fair pay and good working conditions.



Community-based projects might ease tensions over land use. These initiatives can support shared resources, but they hinge on cooperative planning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bananas-adapting-to-temperature-shifts">Bananas adapting to temperature shifts</h2>



One approach involves breeding heat-tolerant bananas. This strategy aims to keep yields stable even in warmer climates.



Irrigation systems play a key role in mitigating dryness. Some regions have turned to drip irrigation and water-saving technology, but these solutions often come with a hefty price tag.



Experts emphasize the importance of preventing disease outbreaks as well. Emerging pathogens can strike when crops are stressed by temperature swings or water scarcity.



“Our findings are a stark reminder that climate change is not just an environmental issue but a direct threat to global food security and livelihoods. Bananas are one of the world's most important fruits, not only for consumers but for millions of workers in producing countries,” said Bebber.



Combining traditional knowledge with modern science could offer practical responses that keep bananas viable in rising temperatures.



Local governments may encourage water management training. This approach helps people learn efficient techniques that preserve scarce resources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-farming-and-funding">Sustainable farming and funding</h2>



Some research groups partner with communities to test pilot projects on sustainable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disease-resistant-banana-may-change-the-future-of-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">farming</a>. The results often show that early planning can ward off major disruptions.



Industry groups are focusing on ways to preserve farmland while cutting emissions. Some growers explore renewable energy options to power equipment.



Alternative financing, such as <a href="https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/microloans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microloans</a>, can help farmers upgrade equipment. This step ensures that no one is left behind.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43016-025-01130-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Food</a>.



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Rising temperatures threaten the future of banana farming

Many of us enjoy a banana without a second thought,...

Earth's climate is changing fast, and scientists are racing to understand how plants will respond. As temperatures rise and carbon dioxide levels increase, plants face new challenges and opportunities.



Some may grow larger, while others might struggle to maintain their natural processes. Understanding these shifts is essential for predicting future agricultural yields and ecosystem stability.



Researchers at the MSU-DOE Plant Research Laboratory (<a href="https://prl.natsci.msu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PRL</a>) Sharkey lab are studying how plant metabolism reacts to high light and high CO2 (HLHC) conditions.



The findings reveal that plants photosynthesize more in these conditions, which can result in larger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-may-stop-absorbing-carbon-if-temperatures-continue-to-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> and higher crop yields. However, this process comes with a cost - plants also lose carbon, a key component for making food.



These results, published in Scientific Reports, highlight the complexity of plant responses to environmental changes.



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



Scientists predict two major environmental shifts will affect plant metabolism. First, atmospheric carbon dioxide levels will continue rising. 



Second, global brightening will alter light conditions, as more solar radiation reaches the Earth's surface than in previous decades.



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-climate-solutions-mixed-forests-store-more-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shifts</a> will impact how plants grow and process carbon. Understanding these effects is crucial for future agricultural and ecological planning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increasing-photosynthesis-rates">Increasing photosynthesis rates</h2>



“Our work demonstrates that it’s very important to study photosynthesis and the carbon metabolism in plants,” said Yuan Xu, postdoctoral researcher in the <a href="https://bmb.natsci.msu.edu/labs/sharkey-lab/sharkey-lab.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sharkey lab</a> and first author of the study. 



“Especially when we think about conditions for the future based on predictions. If you want to do bioengineering in the future, to make a plant that can better adapt to these future conditions, you need to focus on these areas.”



The experts found that in future conditions, photosynthesis rates increase, but light respiration rates remain unchanged. This means plants can produce more sucrose and starch, which are vital for their survival and growth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-plants-store-carbon">How plants store carbon</h2>



“Most carbon fixed in photosynthesis becomes either starch [to use later] – like putting money in your bank account – or sucrose (table sugar) to use now – like buying an ice cream cone,” said Thomas D. Sharkey, University Distinguished Professor in the PRL. 



“The most surprising observation was that extra carbon at high light and high carbon dioxide went much more to starch (76% increase) rather than sucrose (41% increase). This may help plants become more resilient because they will have extra carbon for growth or defense.”



Larger plants and increased crop yields could result from this higher rate of photosynthesis. However, a challenge remains: plants also lose carbon during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-absorb-31-more-co2-than-previously-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">process</a>, reducing the total available food.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resilience-of-future-plants">Resilience of future plants</h2>



During photosynthesis, plants release CO2 through a process called respiration in light (RL). 



The researchers found that RL remains constant under both current and future conditions. Despite increased photosynthesis, the rate at which plants release CO2 through RL does not change.



This suggests that while plants may grow larger, they still lose a steady amount of carbon. Understanding this balance is essential for improving plant resilience in changing environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-plant-carbon-loss">Measuring plant carbon loss</h2>



To analyze RL under HLHC conditions, researchers used a unique approach. Traditional methods like the Laisk or Kok techniques only work in low light <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-carbon-sinks-are-being-pushed-to-their-limits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conditions</a>.



“That’s why this study is unique,” Xu explained. “We used a new approach to measure the RL in the high light condition that cannot be measured using the old method.”



Xu applied a technique known as isotopically nonstationary metabolic flux analysis (INST-MFA). This method, commonly used in bacteria and fungi studies, has rarely been applied to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-diverse-crops-traps-carbon-and-boosts-soil-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant research</a>.



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



The Sharkey lab plans to continue exploring respiration in light using advanced research techniques. Their goal is to deepen the understanding of how plants take in and release carbon dioxide.



“We know from this study that many things are changed [under future conditions] including photosynthesis, photorespiration and respiration in the light,” Xu said. “This gave a hint for future work.”



The research was funded by the Division of Chemical Sciences, Geosciences, and Biosciences, Office of Basic Energy Sciences at the U.S. Department of Energy. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-88574-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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How future climate conditions will transform plant growth

Earth's climate is changing fast, and scientists are racing to...

The end-Permian mass extinction, 252 million years ago, was devastating to life on Earth. Massive volcanic eruptions unleashed 100,000 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide, triggering a severe climate crisis.



This led to extreme global warming, deoxygenated oceans, and widespread extinction. However, many plants survived, leaving fossil records that help scientists understand a dramatic 10-degree rise in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-predict-how-and-when-humans-and-mammals-will-face-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global temperatures</a>.



“While fossilized spores and pollen of plants from the Early Triassic do not provide strong evidence for a sudden and catastrophic biodiversity loss, both marine and terrestrial animals experienced the most severe mass extinction in Earth’s history,” explained Dr. Maura Brunetti of the <a href="https://www.unige.ch/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Geneva</a>. 



“Life on Earth had to adjust to repeated changes in climate and the carbon cycle for several million years after the Permian-Triassic Boundary.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reconstructing-the-ancient-climate">Reconstructing the ancient climate</h2>



The scientists studied five geological stages on either side of the Permian-Triassic Boundary. These included the Permian Wuchiapingian and Changhsingian, the early Triassic Induan and Olenekian, and the middle Triassic Anisian.



Using maps of Earth’s ancient geography and plant fossil data, the researchers identified six major biomes and estimated local climates based on fossil distributions.



The identified biomes ranged from tropical, humid regions to seasonal temperate and desert areas. 



Cold climates featured desert in the tropics and tundra at higher latitudes, while warm <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/public-concern-over-species-extinctions-fades-quickly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climates</a> had temperate vegetation near the poles and deserts near the equator. Increased carbon dioxide levels led to warmer and wetter conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-and-ecosystem-shifts-after-extinction">Climate and ecosystem shifts after extinction</h2>



Using statistical models, the scientists compared plant fossil records with simulated biomes under different climate conditions. Their findings revealed dramatic shifts in ecosystems at the Permian-Triassic Boundary.



Before the extinction, the Permian had a colder climate. The early Triassic Induan period showed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-forests-rose-again-after-the-planets-most-extreme-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unstable conditions</a> that scientists could not clearly classify. 



This uncertainty may be due to sampling biases, poor fossil preservation, or short-term climate variations. More fossil data is needed for clarity.



Later Triassic periods saw significantly warmer conditions. The Olenekian and Anisian stabilized at temperatures 10 degrees higher than the Permian.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-hotter-future">A hotter future</h2>



“This transition from the colder climatic state to the hotter state is marked by an increase of approximately 10⁰C in the mean global surface air <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/half-of-the-worlds-heliconia-species-are-at-risk-of-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature</a> and an intensification of the water cycle,” said Dr. Brunetti.



“Tropical everwet and summerwet biomes emerged in the tropics, replacing predominantly desertic landscapes. Meanwhile, the warm-cool temperate biome shifted towards polar regions, leading to the complete disappearance of tundra ecosystems.”



Dr. Brunetti noted that the shift in vegetation cover can be linked to tipping mechanisms between climatic steady states, providing a potential framework for understanding the transition between Permian and Triassic.



“This framework can be used to understand tipping behavior in the climate system in response to the present-day CO2 increase. If this increase continues at the same rate, we will reach the level of emissions that caused the Permian-Triassic mass extinction in around 2,700 years — a much faster timescale than the Permian-Triassic Boundary emissions.”



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



More data and refined models are necessary for clearer conclusions. “The comparison between simulated biomes and the dataset is influenced by uncertainties, arising from paleogeographic reconstructions and the classification of fossil assemblages into biomes,” said Dr. Brunetti.



“Furthermore, our climate modeling setup relies on offline coupling between models — the vegetation model uses the final outputs of the climatic model for biome reconstruction. This could be enhanced using a dynamic vegetation model.”



The Permian-Triassic extinction reshaped life on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-earths-most-endangered-plants-from-extinction-proving-difficult-botanic-gardens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a>. Studying its causes and consequences may provide valuable insights into the ongoing climate crisis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-lessons-from-past-extinctions">Climate lessons from past extinctions</h2>



The Permian-Triassic extinction reshaped the planet, erasing entire ecosystems and paving the way for new ones. 



By studying how life responded to these changes, scientists can better predict how today’s ecosystems will react to rising temperatures and shifting climate patterns.



Understanding the past is crucial for preparing for the future. If history is any indication, life on Earth will survive - but whether human civilization can adapt as effectively remains an open question.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/earth-science/articles/10.3389/feart.2025.1520846/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Earth Science</a>.



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Climate chaos: The mass extinction that reshaped life on Earth

The end-Permian mass extinction, 252 million years ago, was devastating...

Protecting wildlife while managing forests has always been a challenge. In California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, forest managers face difficult decisions as they try to prevent destructive wildfires without harming the birds and other species that call these forests home.



Traditional monitoring methods require significant time and effort, making it hard to collect enough data to guide <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-forests-are-struggling-to-keep-pace-with-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation efforts</a>.



Now, scientists have introduced a breakthrough solution. Using thousands of microphones and advanced machine learning, researchers have developed a way to track forest birds over vast landscapes.



This innovative approach offers an unprecedented level of detail, providing valuable insights that help balance conservation with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dead-wood-removal-can-save-forests-from-future-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest</a> management. 



A new study highlights how bioacoustic technology can revolutionize wildlife monitoring and support better decision-making for the future of these forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-capturing-bird-sounds">Capturing bird sounds </h2>



Researchers at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s K. Lisa Yang Center for Conservation Bioacoustics led this study, which analyzed more than 700,000 hours of bird sounds. 



The team deployed microphones at 1,600 sites, covering around six million acres of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-forests-rose-again-after-the-planets-most-extreme-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest</a>. The goal was to track ten important bird species, including owls and woodpeckers, which serve as indicators of forest health.



These species provide crucial information about changes in the environment. By listening to their calls across different locations, scientists can assess how forest conditions impact wildlife.



"The amount of coverage that gives us and the idea of what's happening with species at so many different locations allow for really powerful inference to be drawn from the network," said study lead author Kristin Brunk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-machine-learning-and-wildlife-monitoring">Machine learning and wildlife monitoring</h2>



To analyze the massive amount of recorded data, scientists turned to BirdNET, a machine-learning algorithm designed to identify bird calls automatically. This system allows researchers to recognize different species and understand how their presence relates to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-climate-solutions-mixed-forests-store-more-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental conditions</a>.



The study examined how factors such as tree density and canopy cover influence bird populations. These are the same variables that forest managers consider when making conservation decisions. The ability to connect bird activity with habitat conditions provides an essential tool for guiding land management strategies.



By mapping where different birds live, researchers can help forest managers make more informed choices. This is especially important as they work to reduce wildfire risks through controlled burns and forest thinning. Without careful planning, these activities could unintentionally disrupt bird populations.



"We're able to understand bird populations in the context of the forest conditions that are going to be actively manipulated by the management community to hopefully restore some resilience to this system," said Connor Wood, lead researcher at the <a href="https://www.birds.cornell.edu/ccb/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">K. Lisa Yang Center for Conservation Bioacoustics</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cheaper-forest-bird-tracking">Cheaper forest bird tracking</h2>



Monitoring wildlife over such a large area would be nearly impossible using traditional methods. Conducting field surveys requires a significant investment of time and resources. In contrast, passive acoustic monitoring offers a more efficient and cost-effective solution.



"If you think about what the cost would have been to get that amount of information by having biologists collecting data across the landscape… the cost effectiveness can't really be matched," Brunk noted.



This system enables continuous, long-term monitoring without the need for large field teams. The data collected can also be used to track changes in bird populations over time, offering a deeper understanding of how forests evolve under different management strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forest-bird-monitoring">Forest bird monitoring </h2>



The success of this study goes beyond California’s Sierra Nevada. The researchers believe that bioacoustic monitoring can be applied to other regions facing similar conservation challenges. 



By adapting this technology, scientists and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-forests-which-tree-species-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest</a> managers worldwide can gain better insights into wildlife populations and habitat conditions.



"It's sort of a blueprint for how passive acoustic monitoring can inform management," said Brunk.



This approach is particularly valuable in areas where human access is difficult. Remote forests, protected reserves, and even urban green spaces could benefit from passive monitoring. 



The ability to gather large amounts of data with minimal human disturbance makes this a promising tool for conservation efforts around the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-forest-and-wildlife-protection">Future of forest and wildlife protection</h2>



The integration of cutting-edge technology with conservation practices represents a major step forward. Listening to the sounds of the forest can help scientists understand how bird populations respond to changes in their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-still-fighting-climate-change-against-all-odds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environment</a>.



"By combining new technologies with practical management needs, we're creating tools that can help protect both forests and wildlife during a time of rapid environmental change," said Wood.



The research was conducted in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Oregon State University, University of California-Merced, and Chemnitz University of Technology. This partnership highlights the increasing role of technology in conservation.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/fee.2843" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment</a>.



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Every bird song can help scientists make smarter forest decisions

Protecting wildlife while managing forests has always been a challenge....

Selection,Of,Animal,And,Plant,Protein,Sources,-,Fish,,Meat,

Nearly 90% of adults in the United States believe they must eat meat, dairy, or eggs to get enough protein. This finding comes from a poll of 2,203 people who were surveyed in January 2025, and it highlights the lingering confusion around animal protein and plant-based eating.



Women and Gen Z participants were most likely to push back against the idea that animal products are required for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hemp-seeds-could-be-a-game-changer-as-an-alternative-protein-source/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adequate nutrition</a>. 



<a href="https://www.pcrm.org/about-us/staff/roxanne-becker" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Roxanne Becker</a>, MBChB, DipIBLM, who is with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, <a href="https://www.pcrm.org/news/news-releases/nearly-90-us-adults-believe-inaccurately-its-important-eat-animal-products-get" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">notes</a> that some consumers still struggle to see how plant foods can match traditional protein sources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-plant-protein-replace-animal-protein">Can plant protein replace animal protein?</h2>



Consumers may worry about protein quality when moving away from animal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-more-plant-protein-lowers-the-risk-of-heart-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">foods</a>. One key concern is about whether plant proteins are too low in essential amino acids.



Plant-based proteins are often linked with health perks such as high fiber and reduced levels of unhealthy fats. 



They also contain a variety of vitamins and minerals that animal products may lack, but the question about adequate essential amino acids remains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-protein-vs-animal-protein">Plant protein vs. animal protein</h2>



“Plant protein has been shown in randomized controlled trials to be as effective as animal protein for building muscle when the amounts of protein are equal. And it is full of nutrients and fiber, unlike animal-based protein sources,” clarified Dr. Becker.



There is strong support from <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10537483/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">controlled trials</a> for the benefits of plant-based eating.&nbsp;



In one <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33599941/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a>, men who followed a plant-based dietary plan or an omnivorous plan experienced similar gains in muscle mass when the diet was paired with resistance training. 



Similar protein amounts produced comparable results, regardless of the protein source. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-protein-supports-better-aging">Plant protein supports better aging</h2>



Midlife nutrition habits can set the stage for quality of life decades later. An <a href="https://ajcn.nutrition.org/article/S0002-9165(23)66282-3/fulltext#tbl2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">investigation</a> led by researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (<a href="https://hsph.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HSPH</a>) suggests that higher intake of plant protein in midlife may support healthy aging in women.



Participants in that study showed better physical and cognitive outcomes over the years when they relied on beans, nuts, and other plant-based staples. 



The findings indicate that animal protein may have a few benefits for mobility, but plant protein aligns with improved overall well-being.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-protein-needs">Practical protein needs</h2>



The minimum daily requirement for an adult is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram (0.01 ounces per pound) of body weight. 



That’s about 56 grams for a 70-kilogram (2 ounces for a 155-pound) man and 46 grams for a 58-kilogram (1.6 ounces for a 128-pound) woman.



Those who exercise heavily may need up to 2 grams per kilogram (0.07 ounces per pound), especially if they’re doing strength training. 



Keeping track of these figures can guide individuals toward balanced dietary choices that nourish muscle growth and support overall health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maintaining-muscle-with-age">Maintaining muscle with age</h2>



“As we age, it’s important to consume enough protein to maintain our muscle mass so we can avoid frailty. Plant protein sources, which contain no artery-clogging cholesterol and are low in saturated fat, should be the go-to,” said Dr. Becker. 



Older adults might lose muscle mass over time, so feeding the body with enough protein is wise.&nbsp;



Many plant-based options are naturally free of animal fats, which can help with <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/JAHA.117.006659" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart health</a> in the long run. These foods are also linked to lower cholesterol levels.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ways-to-replace-animal-protein">Ways to replace animal protein</h2>



Busy schedules might make it tricky for some people to figure out a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/futuristic-food-supply-transforming-co2-into-protein/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-friendly</a> menu that supplies adequate protein. 



Tofu, beans, lentils, peas, nuts and tempeh are familiar to many who want to load up on muscle-building nutrients without relying on animal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-are-suffering-from-declining-plant-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">products</a>.



“Unlike animal-based protein, these foods contain zero cholesterol and tend to be low in saturated fat, making them a smart choice for long-term health. Getting enough protein is as easy as enjoying meals you already know and love,” said Xavier Toledo, a registered dietitian with the Physicians Committee.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wider-acceptance">Wider acceptance</h2>



The survey revealed that more than half of respondents felt it was possible to gain muscle on a plant-based eating plan. 



This marks a change from older attitudes that portrayed animal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-changes-in-diet-can-greatly-reduce-your-carbon-footprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protein</a> as the gold standard.



Despite strong acceptance among younger adults, the broader public still lags behind on the facts. That gap could close as research keeps highlighting the flexibility and benefits of plant-based <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-meat-less-protein-lacks-certain-nutrients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diets</a>.



The study is published in the <a href="https://ajcn.nutrition.org/article/S0002-9165(23)66282-3/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Journal of Clinical Nutrition</a>.



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Do humans need to eat animal protein to build muscle? Science has the answer

Nearly 90% of adults in the United States believe they...

Autumn,Blooming,Purple,Chrysanthemum,Flowers,Covered,With,Snow.,Frozen,Flowers

The world is changing, and so is the climate. Sudden temperature drops, unexpected frosts, and shifting weather patterns challenge ecosystems in many ways. 



For plants, these changes are especially harsh. Unlike animals, they cannot migrate, seek shelter, or generate body heat in cold weather. Instead, they rely on internal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-warming-alters-plant-germination-and-disrupts-ecosystem-balance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adaptations to survive</a>.



Varvara Dikaya at <a href="https://www.umu.se/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Umeå University</a> explored this challenge in her doctoral research. She studied a protein which plays a key role in plant adaptation to low temperatures.



The findings reveal that this protein participates in multiple signaling pathways, enabling plants to survive harsh conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cold-response-strategies-of-plants">Cold response strategies of plants </h2>



Unlike animals, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shaded-plants-capture-light-beyond-the-visible-spectrum/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> cannot seek warmth or migrate. Their survival depends on internal mechanisms that adjust to temperature shifts. 



Past research focused on molecules like amino acids and sugars, which help prevent freezing. Scientists also studied core temperature-response mechanisms, but many crucial components remained unknown.



Dikaya’s <a href="http://umu.diva-portal.org/smash/record.jsf?pid=diva2:1933796" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> uncovers a missing piece of this puzzle - RNA splicing. This process determines which proteins are produced in plant cells, directly impacting cold response strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-rna-splicing-the-basics">Understanding RNA splicing - the basics</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-cells-communicate-with-each-other-through-rna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RNA</a> splicing is like an editing process for your genes, making sure your cells get the right instructions to build proteins. 



When a gene gets copied into RNA, it includes extra sections called introns that don’t actually code for anything useful. 



Before the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rna-world-unraveling-mysteries-life-origin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RNA can do its job</a>, the cell cuts out these introns and stitches together the remaining pieces, called exons. 



This process turns a raw RNA transcript into a polished, ready-to-go messenger RNA (mRNA) that cells can use to make proteins.



Sometimes, cells splice RNA in different ways, mixing and matching exons to produce multiple proteins from the same gene. 



This alternative splicing is why our relatively small number of genes can make such a huge range of proteins. When splicing goes wrong, though, it can lead to diseases like cancer and genetic disorders.



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



"Splicing acts as a central hub controlling the information flow from DNA to RNA, defining which proteins are synthesized from a certain gene," explained Dikaya, who is a doctoral student in the Department of Plant Physiology at Umeå University and <a href="https://www.upsc.se" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Umeå Plant Science Center</a>.



Her research focused on PORCUPINE, a protein discovered when scientists observed that plants with a mutation in this gene became unusually cold-sensitive. The mutation's spiky shoot tips inspired the name.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-temperature-drops">Impact of temperature drops</h2>



"The PORCUPINE mutant appears normal under ambient temperature conditions but cannot develop properly in the case of even a mild temperature drop," the team noted.



"Already at 16 degrees, the mutant grows shorter roots with increased root hair density and much smaller rosettes than normal. This is very special,."



Dikaya’s work reveals that cold temperatures trigger an increase in PORCUPINE RNA in cells. This suggests that the plant produces more of this protein to cope with the stress. 



However, PORCUPINE is not just a passive responder. It actively participates in the spliceosome, a complex that processes RNA before it transforms into proteins.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-player-in-rna-processing">Key player in RNA processing</h2>



PORCUPINE is not just a responder to cold; it is an active participant in RNA processing. 



This protein is part of the spliceosome, a complex molecular machine that modifies RNA before it is translated into proteins. Without proper RNA splicing, plants cannot produce the proteins they need to survive.



By studying PORCUPINE’s role in the spliceosome, Dikaya and her team discovered that it influences multiple genetic pathways. 



Some of these pathways control how plants sense and react to cold temperature shifts. Others regulate growth patterns that determine whether a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-how-climate-change-will-alter-plant-growth-cycles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a> can withstand stress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-network-of-cold-responses">A network of cold responses</h2>



Dikaya and her colleagues identified several genes controlled by PORCUPINE, all of which influence how plants respond to temperature changes. Her research highlights how intricate these responses are, involving multiple overlapping pathways.



"Our findings show the complexity of the cold response in plants. It is important to understand all aspects and identify fundamental mechanisms that could be applied later on in a practical manner," Dikaya noted.



"Such knowledge will be essential to create more resilient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bioelectric-future-harnessing-the-natural-energy-of-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> capable of withstanding environmental challenges in the future, even though it is still a long way to go."



Her work provides a deeper understanding of how plants adjust to fluctuating temperatures. This knowledge could pave the way for crops that can better withstand future climate uncertainties.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-cold-resistant-plants">Future of cold-resistant plants</h2>



The challenges of climate change are not going away, and neither is the need for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/phantom-nutrient-the-secret-force-that-fuels-plant-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resilient crops</a>. 



If researchers can harness the knowledge gained from studies like Dikaya’s, they may be able to develop plant varieties that thrive despite temperature fluctuations.



Although there is still much to learn, this research brings us one step closer to understanding the intricate mechanisms that allow plants to survive. In the years ahead, discoveries like this could reshape agriculture and help ensure food security in a changing world.



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Plants have an amazing ability to 'rewire' themselves to survive winter

The world is changing, and so is the climate. Sudden...

With their beak-like flowers and vibrant colors, Heliconia plants are a striking presence in tropical landscapes. But beyond their visual appeal, these captivating plants serve a vital ecological role and are emblematic of the tropical biosphere.



Heliconia plants have now entered the danger zone, with new research indicating that nearly half of these species are on the brink of extinction.



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



The research was focused on data from the world's herbaria - time capsules of botanical history.



"The data that is stored in the herbarium is a scientific treasure that makes a project like this feasible," explained Gary Krupnick, a botanist who heads the Plant Conservation Unit at the <a href="https://www.si.edu/museums/natural-history-museum" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History</a>. 



The researchers analyzed decades' worth of fieldwork data, preserved in the form of thousands of dried specimens and meticulous labels, to assess the conservation status of Heliconia <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/all-plants-on-earth-could-be-saved-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-role-of-heliconia-plants">Ecological role of Heliconia plants </h2>



Encompassing 187 species related to bananas, the majority of Heliconia plants are rainforest dwellers in tropical Central and South America. Their roles go way beyond their spectacular visual appeal.



They act as precious nectar stations for bats and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sipping-on-nectar-hummingbirds-consume-a-surprising-amount-of-alcohol/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hummingbirds</a>, who in turn act as pollinators for many Heliconia species, playing a major part in the propagation of these plants. 



Yet, their very splendor has put them at risk of overexploitation and poaching. Habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change further compound the threats they face.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-heliconia-s-survival">Mapping Heliconia’s survival</h2>



Despite the adverse conditions that limited in-person access to the herbarium during the pandemic, the researchers made the most of the fully digitized Heliconia specimens available online.



This precious information, coupled with a tool called GeoCAT (Geospatial Conservation Assessment Tool), allowed the research team to calculate crucial factors like the size of the Heliconia's range and the number of plants in various areas. 



The experts also explored how human activities have impacted forest cover in these areas, which Heliconia populations inhabit protected regions, and which species can potentially be reintroduced into the wild from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-earths-most-endangered-plants-from-extinction-proving-difficult-botanic-gardens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">botanical gardens</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threatened-heliconia-species">Threatened Heliconia species </h2>



The findings were anything but encouraging. Of the 187 Heliconia species, 47 percent are threatened with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increasing-plant-extinction-threatens-the-future-of-medicine-and-human-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinction</a>.



Most of these endangered species are found in few wild protected areas, and a relatively small number of these exist outside their native ranges. 



Furthermore, many of these species are adapted to fragile environments like high-altitude cloud forests, which are particularly susceptible to change.



The team identified 45 Heliconia species that are top priorities for additional protection.



“This study provides a blueprint for how to save this group of plants, starting with this list of priority species,” Krupnick said. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-raising-public-awareness">Raising public awareness</h2>



The researchers are committed to raising public awareness about the challenges facing the Heliconia genus. Their goal is to encourage responsible tourism to help curb unsustainable demand for these plants.



Their efforts will not merely save these vivid symbols of the tropics, but will also spur the conservation of other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-diversity-is-declining-at-a-steady-rate-across-germany/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endangered plant</a> species.



Despite the grim data, the researchers noted that there is a glimmer of hope. "Now that we know the conservation status of every one of the 187 species of Heliconia, we can construct a coherent plan of how to protect them,” said John Kress, an emeritus curator at the museum and one of the authors of the new study.



This study highlights the urgent need for enlightened conservation strategies to preserve our remarkable yet vulnerable biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-botanical-gardens-a-lifeline-for-heliconia">Botanical gardens: A lifeline for Heliconia</h2>



As wild Heliconia populations decline, botanical gardens are stepping in as vital sanctuaries. These living collections safeguard rare species, providing a backup for reintroduction efforts when conditions allow.



By cultivating Heliconia in controlled environments, scientists can develop sustainable propagation methods and help preserve the genetic diversity of the plants.



Beyond conservation, botanical gardens raise public awareness through education and partnerships with local organizations. 



However, not all Heliconia species thrive outside of their native habitats, which poses challenges for their long-term preservation. Advanced seed banking and propagation techniques must be explored to secure the future of these rainforest icons.



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Half of the world's Heliconia species are at risk of extinction

With their beak-like flowers and vibrant colors, Heliconia plants are...

Close-up,In,A,Frying,Pan,With,Olive,Oil,,Ghee,(clarified

Swapping butter for plant-based oils may be a simple way to support better long-term health. 



A new study suggests that people who consume more plant-based oils - such as soybean, canola, and olive oil - tend to live longer than those who regularly eat butter.



The research, which tracked dietary habits for over 30 years, found a lower risk of death from cancer and heart disease among those who opted for plant oils. 



Meanwhile, higher butter intake was linked to an increased risk of early death.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-diet-affects-longevity">How diet affects longevity</h2>



Scientists from <a href="https://hsph.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health</a>, Mass General Brigham, and the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard analyzed dietary data from more than 220,000 participants. 



These individuals were part of long-running studies that collected information on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-eating-habits-can-lead-to-lifelong-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eating habits</a> every four years. 



By reviewing this data, researchers could estimate butter and oil consumption over time.



Butter intake included all sources - spreads, cooking, baking, and margarine blends - while plant-based oil intake was calculated based on how often participants used oils in frying, sautéing, baking, and salad dressings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-butter-vs-plant-based-oils">Butter vs plant-based oils</h2>



The study's lead author, Yu Zhang, M.B.B.S., is a research assistant at the Channing Division of Network Medicine at <a href="https://www.brighamandwomens.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brigham and Women's Hospital</a>.



"What's surprising is the magnitude of the association that we found - we saw a 17% lower risk of death when we modeled swapping butter with plant-based oils in daily diet. That is a pretty huge effect on health," Zhang explained.



The key difference comes down to fat composition. 



Butter is high in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-fat-diets-linked-to-unexpected-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">saturated fat</a>, while plant-based oils contain more unsaturated fats. Previous research has looked at dietary fats in general, but fewer studies have focused on their primary sources.



The findings suggest a clear contrast in health risks. Participants who ate the most butter had a 15% higher risk of death compared to those who ate the least. 



Meanwhile, those who consumed the most plant-based oils had a 16% lower risk of dying.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choosing-plant-based-oils-over-butter">Choosing plant-based oils over butter</h2>



"People might want to consider that a simple dietary swap - replacing butter with soybean oil or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/regular-olive-oil-consumption-can-literally-save-your-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">olive oil</a> - can lead to significant long-term health benefits," said corresponding author Daniel Wang, M.D., Sc.D., of the Channing Division of Network Medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital.



"From a public health perspective, this is a substantial number of deaths from cancer or from other chronic diseases that could be prevented."



To further explore this link, the researchers ran a substitution analysis. Their model showed that replacing just 10 grams of butter per day - less than a tablespoon - with an equivalent amount of plant-based oil could reduce cancer deaths and overall mortality by 17%.



"Even cutting back butter a little and incorporating more plant-based oils into your daily diet can have meaningful long-term health benefits," Wang added.



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



Beyond personal health, switching from butter to plant-based oils has broader implications. 



Butter production requires more land, water, and energy compared to plant oil production. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-began-dairy-farming-much-earlier-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dairy farming</a>, which supports butter production, contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. 



In contrast, plant oils have a lower environmental impact, making them a more sustainable choice.



Economically, plant-based oils are often more affordable and widely available than butter. 



With rising food prices, making the switch could be a cost-effective way for individuals and families to improve their diets without significantly increasing their grocery bills.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-for-research">What’s next for research?</h2>



Although the study presents strong evidence, the investigators do recognize some limitations. 



A majority of participants were healthcare professionals, so the results may not be representative of the overall U.S. population.



Also, self-reported food intake information may have some error, although the long duration and large number of participants in the study reduce the concerns of the scientists in this regard.



Future studies will investigate the biological processes that mediate these health consequences.



For the moment, the message is straightforward: replacing butter with plant-based oils is a simple, practical move toward <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prescription-for-fruits-and-vegetables-linked-to-better-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">improved health</a> in the long run.



Small, sustainable changes to eating habits can have long-term payoffs - not only for individuals but for public health and the planet too.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2831265" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Internal Medicine</a>.



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Health challenge: Cooking with butter vs. plant-based oils

Swapping butter for plant-based oils may be a simple way...

Cannabis has been studied for decades for its pain-relieving potential, but its psychoactive properties have limited its medical use.



Millions of individuals suffer from chronic pain, and for many years, the main treatment has been opioids.



Effective as they are, opioids come with serious risks - they are extremely addictive and can be deadly if abused. The demand for safer pain medication has never been more urgent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-inspired-breakthrough">Cannabis-inspired breakthrough </h2>



In the search for alternatives that can bring pain relief without the risk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-discovery-offers-hope-for-tackling-opioid-addiction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">addiction</a>, researchers have discovered a potential solution.



Experts at <a href="https://medicine.washu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis</a> and Stanford University have created a new compound that replicates a natural molecule that occurs in cannabis.



This achievement leverages the pain-relieving properties of cannabis without inducing mind-altering side effects. The compound has been tested in mice with some positive results.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-safer-approach-to-pain-relief">Safer approach to pain relief</h2>



The study highlights the potential of this new compound as a non-addictive pain reliever.



Unlike <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/opioid-related-deaths-are-on-the-rise-among-young-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">opioids</a>, which act on the brain’s reward system and lead to addiction, this compound was designed to target pain-reducing receptors in the body while preventing entry into the brain.



Dr. Susruta Majumdar is a professor of anesthesiology at WashU Medicine and the study's senior author. 



“There is an urgent need to develop non-addictive treatments for chronic pain, and that’s been a major focus of my lab for the past 15 years,” said Dr. Majumdar.



“The custom-designed compound we created attaches to pain-reducing receptors in the body but by design, it can’t reach the brain. This means the compound avoids psychoactive side effects such as mood changes and isn’t addictive because it doesn’t act on the brain’s reward center.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-opioid-crisis">The opioid crisis</h2>



Despite warnings about the dangers of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psilocybin-may-protect-against-opioid-use-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">opioid use</a>, overdose deaths remain alarmingly high. In 2022 alone, opioids were linked to approximately 82,000 deaths in the United States. The crisis continues, pushing researchers to find safer alternatives.



Study co-author Dr. Robert W. Gereau is a professor of&nbsp;anesthesiology&nbsp;and director of the&nbsp;WashU Medicine Pain Center. He noted that people have turned to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-number-of-americans-are-high-on-marijuana-at-work/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marijuana</a> as a pain treatment for thousands of years. 



“Clinical trials also have evaluated whether cannabis provides long-term pain relief. But inevitably the psychoactive side effects of cannabis have been problematic, preventing cannabis from being considered as a viable treatment option for pain. However, we were able to overcome that issue," said Dr. Gereau.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pain-relief-without-side-effects">Pain relief without side effects</h2>



Cannabinoid molecules in cannabis interact with CB1 receptors on brain cells and pain-sensing nerve cells. These interactions contribute to marijuana’s pain-relieving effects but also cause mind-altering side effects.



Working with Stanford University researchers, the experts modified a cannabinoid molecule by adding a positive charge. This prevents the compound from crossing the blood-brain barrier while still allowing it to bind to CB1 receptors in the body.



By limiting its action to pain-sensing nerve cells outside the brain, they achieved pain relief without the unwanted side effects.



The researchers tested the compound in mouse models of nerve-injury pain and migraine headaches. They measured touch sensitivity as an indicator of pain and found that the modified compound eliminated hypersensitivity in the mice.



The results suggest that the compound could be a powerful pain reliever without the risks associated with opioids.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tolerance-and-long-term-effectiveness">Tolerance and long-term effectiveness</h2>



One major issue with opioid treatments is that patients develop tolerance over time, requiring higher doses for the same effect. This new compound, however, provided prolonged pain relief without signs of tolerance, even with twice-daily treatments over nine days.



The researchers discovered why tolerance was avoided. By using advanced computational modeling, they identified a previously hidden pocket on the CB1 receptor.



This pocket, confirmed through structural models, allows the compound to bind in a way that reduces cellular activity linked to tolerance. 



Unlike conventional cannabinoid binding sites, which become less effective over time, the hidden pocket opens briefly, allowing the compound to work without losing its effect.



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



Designing molecules that relieve pain without unwanted side effects is a complex challenge. Researchers now aim to develop this compound into an oral medication for further testing and, eventually, clinical trials.



If successful, this could mark a significant shift in how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/patients-with-chronic-pain-are-turning-to-cannabis-for-relief/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chronic pain</a> is treated - offering a safer, non-addictive alternative to opioids.



Millions of people struggle with chronic pain daily. With ongoing research, a new solution could be on the horizon - one that provides relief without the devastating consequences of addiction.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08618-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Tapping into the pain relief potential of cannabis without the high

Cannabis has been studied for decades for its pain-relieving potential,...

Pollination happens everywhere, but most people don’t notice it. Small creatures like bees, butterflies, birds, and bats carry pollen between plants, helping them grow. Without pollinators, flowers wouldn’t turn into fruit, and seeds wouldn’t spread. They do more than help plants reproduce - they keep nature healthy, support animals, and help produce food.



But here’s the problem - many of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-pollinators-boost-the-nutritional-value-of-crops/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> are vanishing. Climate change, habitat destruction, and industrial farming are wiping out species at an alarming rate.



Their disappearance isn’t just an issue for farmers. It affects forests, grasslands, and even city parks, where pollinators keep plant life going. When they decline, entire ecosystems suffer, and the food supply becomes more fragile.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollinator-s-role-in-plant-reproduction">Pollinator's role in plant reproduction</h2>



Plants depend on pollination to grow and multiply. Around 85% of wild plant species and more than 70% of cultivated crops rely on pollinators for reproduction. Without pollinators, many plants would fail to produce fruits or seeds.



“In most of the studies conducted on this issue across the world, plants were found not to bear fruit if no pollinator was present,“ noted Maddi Artamendi, a researcher at the University of the Basque Country (<a href="https://www.ehu.eus/en/en-home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UPV/EHU</a>).



“Studies of this type have been mostly conducted on crop species, but that does not give a true picture, since the diversity of pollinators is going to decrease, is already decreasing, but is not going to disappear completely."



“What is more, wild plants were also taken into consideration as well as crop plants. We wanted to approach the subject from a more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robotic-insects-may-be-the-future-of-farming-and-plant-pollination/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">realistic perspective</a>.”



Her research challenges the idea that only crops suffer from pollinator loss. Wild plants are equally affected, and their decline could disrupt entire ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-pollinator-decline">Impact of pollinator decline</h2>



A study by Artamendi and Ainhoa Magrach, an Ikerbasque Research Professor at Butler County Community College (<a href="https://www.bc3.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BC3</a>) highlights the need to protect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-pollinators-wild-bees-boosts-food-supply-income/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinator diversity</a>. 



The researchers stress the urgency of addressing factors that reduce pollinator numbers. The study found that a decrease in pollinators negatively affects plant reproduction, reducing fruit quantity, seed numbers, and fruit weight. Wild plants suffer more from pollinator loss than cultivated plants.



Self-pollinating plants also benefit from diverse pollinators. “Showing that it is very beneficial for these plants to exchange pollen,” explained Artamendi.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wild-pollinators-and-plant-reproduction">Wild pollinators and plant reproduction</h2>



The study reveals that wild pollinators contribute more to plant reproduction than domestic pollinators, such as honey bees. A decline in wild pollinators significantly harms plant reproductive success.



The loss of invertebrate pollinators is more severe than that of vertebrates. Nocturnal pollinators are disappearing faster than diurnal pollinators. The decline of wild pollinators is greater than that of domestic pollinators. 



These findings highlight the urgent need to protect a wide range of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollen-wars-plants-compete-for-space-on-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinator species</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decline-of-pollinators">Decline of pollinators </h2>



To understand pollinator decline, Artamendi and Magrach conducted a meta-analysis of 207 studies from 46 countries. This type of analysis combines data from multiple studies, allowing researchers to find broad patterns.



“We analyzed research done across the world. We had to bear in mind that there are different varieties of plants depending on the climate, that the influence on one plant or another may have been different, and how large the sample was, etc.,“ explained Artamendi.



“We took into account many variables so that all the pieces of research could be compared, and that is how we achieved a real, quantifiable result.” 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-a-broader-perspective">Need for a broader perspective</h2>



The researchers concluded that all pollinators, both wild and domestic, play a vital role in plant reproduction.



“We cannot focus on domestic pollinators alone. There are more pollinators, and we saw that they are all of great importance in the reproductive success of plants and in maintaining plant diversity," the team noted.



"We should not focus just on crop plants and domestic pollinators, the view has to be opened out.”



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



The decline of pollinators is not just an environmental issue - it’s a crisis that could reshape entire ecosystems. This study reinforces the importance of protecting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollinators-face-extinction-risk-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> to keep nature thriving and ensure stable food production.



By taking action now - whether through conservation efforts, policy changes, or individual choices like planting pollinator-friendly gardens - humanity can help slow this decline. Protecting pollinators means protecting life itself.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-024-02595-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</a>.



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Pollinators are disappearing, and it’s bad news for plants

Pollination happens everywhere, but most people don’t notice it. Small...

Tropical rainforests help the planet breathe. They store carbon, control temperatures, and shelter wildlife. These tropical forests have survived climate changes for millions of years, but now they face an unprecedented challenge.



Climate change is reshaping ecosystems at an unprecedented pace. Rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events are placing immense stress on forests across the Americas. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tropical-forests-in-a-shifting-climate">Tropical forests in a shifting climate </h2>



A new study reveals that these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-lived-in-rainforests-80000-years-earlier-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> are not adapting quickly enough to keep up with environmental changes. This slow response raises concerns about their long-term survival and the cascading effects their decline could have on the global climate system.



Dr. Jesús Aguirre-Gutiérrez from the University of Oxford’s <a href="https://www.eci.ox.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Change Institute</a> led the research with over 100 scientists and local collaborators. 



The team analyzed data from 415 permanent forest plots, covering regions from Mexico to southern Brazil. 



By studying the characteristics of more than 250,000 trees, they examined how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazon-rainforest-may-be-much-more-stable-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">different species</a> are responding to shifting temperatures and rainfall patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trees-are-adapting-too-slowly">Trees are adapting too slowly</h2>



The experts found that while climate change alters temperature and rainfall, tree communities are not keeping up with the pace.



This slow response threatens the balance of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-thirds-of-temperate-rainforests-could-be-lost-this-century/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a>. Some species thrive, while others struggle. Traits like wood density, leaf thickness, and drought resistance play a crucial role in determining which trees survive.



“Tropical forests are among the most diverse ecosystems on Earth, yet their ability to adapt to climate change is limited. Understanding which traits help trees survive can guide conservation efforts and policy decisions,“ said Dr. Aguirre-Gutiérrez.



“Given the changes in climate we have observed over the last 40 to 50 years, you might think there have also been lots of changes in the tree communities in tropical rainforests. But some of these changes are too small and too slow to actually adapt to the observed changes in climate."



By looking at individual trees from different communities, the team found that some have suffered due to climate shifts, while others have thrived, noted Dr. Aguirre-Gutiérrez.



"We can study the characteristics, also known as ‘tree traits,’ of those that have survived, as well as new individuals joining the communities and those that have died, to understand what makes them react differently to a changing climate.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risky-future-for-rainforests">Risky future for rainforests</h2>



Mountainous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-rainforest-is-approaching-widespread-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> appear to adapt faster than lowland forests. This difference likely results from the greater climate variability at higher altitudes. 



Meanwhile, younger trees exhibit noticeable shifts in traits, yet overall forest composition remains largely unchanged.



By 2100, the region’s temperatures could rise by up to 4°C, with rainfall decreasing by as much as 20%. These changes may push tropical forests further out of balance, making them more vulnerable to extreme climate events. Without intervention, the risk of ecosystem collapse increases.



“If we know what species of trees are doing better or worse, and what set of traits they have, then we know what they can withstand. It will help inform what conservation actions should be encouraged and where funding should be allocated,” said Dr. Aguirre-Gutiérrez.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extensive-collection-of-field-data">Extensive collection of field data</h2>



Professor José Javier Corral Rivas from the Juarez University of the State of Durango (<a href="https://www.ujed.mx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UJED</a>) highlighted the significance of long-term field studies. 



“It is thanks to the extensive collection of field data over the past decades, largely supported by Latin American institutions and international collaborations, that we are able to make discoveries like this one, particularly in highly biodiverse regions such as the tropical forests of the Americas.”



Professor Oliver Phillips from the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leeds</a> emphasized the importance of human effort in this research. 



“What is remarkable is that we discovered this not with satellites or artificial intelligence, but by the efforts of botanists, foresters and hundreds of other skilled partners,” noted Professor Phillips. "These undervalued colleagues provide a great service to the world.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-response-of-tropical-forests">Climate response of tropical forests </h2>



The researchers found that functional traits among trees are shifting but at a pace far too slow to match climate change. Deciduous species are becoming more common in some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainforest-emissions-shape-the-climate-and-cloud-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>, and leaf thickness is decreasing.



However, the rate of change is only a fraction of what is needed for trees to maintain equilibrium with the changing environment.



Lowland forests, which are experiencing higher temperature increases and greater drought stress, are showing stronger changes than montane forests. While some species are adapting, others are dying at increasing rates. 



The experts found that tree recruitment, where young trees replace older ones, is the most responsive to climate shifts. However, these recruits still track climate change at only about 22% of the expected rate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-rainforests-for-future-generations">Protecting rainforests for future generations</h2>



“Measuring forests carefully tree-by-tree, species-by-species and year-after-year, teaches us about the health of trees and the risks they face,“ noted Professor Beatriz Marimon from the <a href="https://unemat.br" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">State University of Mato Grosso</a>, Brazil.



“In some of our Amazon plots the forest is facing a deadly combination of fire, heat and drought. Understanding which tree species can survive these threats is critical to creating a liveable future for all of us.”



This study highlights the urgent need for research and conservation efforts to help tropical forests withstand climate challenges. Without immediate action, these ecosystems may struggle to survive the coming decades.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/epdf/10.1126/science.adl5414" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Tropical forests are struggling to keep pace with climate change

Tropical rainforests help the planet breathe. They store carbon, control...

The Arctic is changing fast. Ancient ice is melting, glaciers are shrinking, and seasons are shifting. Below the surface, vast kelp forests sway along rocky coasts, hidden from sight.



These marine giants are more than plants. They are the architects of entire ecosystems, offering shelter, food, and stability to countless <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-otters-help-kelp-forests-recover-but-theres-more-to-the-story/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine species</a>. But as the Arctic transforms, so its kelp forests change too.



A recent study shows that melting glaciers and permafrost are changing kelp ecosystems by increasing freshwater run-off. The research was conducted by scientists from EU projects FACE-IT, ECOTIP, and SEA-Quester.



What the experts found is both startling and deeply revealing: shifts in water chemistry, microbial communities in flux, and an unexpected entanglement with heavy metals.



The story of Arctic kelp is not just an ecological tale - it is an economic and social one, reaching far beyond the cold northern seas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-warming-arctic-a-changing-coastline">A warming Arctic, a changing coastline</h2>



The Arctic is heating up - faster than anywhere else on the planet. This isn’t a slow, creeping shift; it’s a rapid and relentless <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pacific-kelp-forests-existed-32-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transformation</a>.



With glaciers melting and permafrost thawing, vast amounts of freshwater are flooding into coastal seas. It’s a deluge that doesn’t just mix and disappear. The chemistry of the water shifts, salinity drops and light struggles to penetrate as suspended sediments cloud the once-clear depths.



For kelp, these changes aren’t trivial. They depend on stable conditions that include sunlight, salt, and predictable nutrient flows.



But with sediments thickening the water, photosynthesis becomes a challenge. Light barely reaches their fronds, stalling their growth. And the run-off doesn’t just bring fresh water; it carries something far more sinister - metals, both essential and toxic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heavy-metals-in-the-water">Heavy metals in the water</h2>



What happens when <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/kelp-forest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kelp</a> absorbs the very waters that nourish them? The answer lies in their elemental makeup. 



The research team studied kelps from various locations - some in areas with heavy runoff and others in clearer waters. Their findings were striking. Kelps from high-run-off areas contained significantly elevated levels of metals like cadmium, lead, and mercury.



Mercury in these kelps was 72% higher than in cleaner areas. That’s a serious warning. Kelp supports Arctic marine life, but when it absorbs metals, the pollution spreads through the ecosystem.



Small marine creatures graze on kelp, larger predators consume them, and over time, toxic elements creep their way up the food chain. Eventually, they land on the plates of Arctic communities that rely on seafood. 



What begins in a hidden kelp forest could have consequences that reach dinner tables far from the icy shores.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbial-world-living-on-kelp">Microbial world living on kelp</h2>



A blade of kelp is covered in bacteria, fungi, and other life forms. These microbes play many important roles. They shape kelp health, aid in nutrient cycling, and offer a first line of defense against pathogens. But just like the kelp itself, they are sensitive to change.



The researchers found that run-off is rewriting the microbial landscape. The balance of bacteria living on kelp is shifting, and with it, the very functions that keep these marine plants thriving.



Some microbes that help break down organic matter are disappearing, while metal-tolerant ones are growing. This shift could disrupt kelp, the animals that rely on it, and the entire marine ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-of-arctic-kelp-cultivation">Potential of Arctic kelp cultivation</h2>



But there’s another side to this story. While heavy metal accumulation spells trouble for marine life, it also points to an unexpected opportunity. Kelp is a natural sponge, pulling metals from the water with remarkable efficiency. Could this ability be harnessed?



Scientists are looking into something called phytomining - using plants and algae to pull valuable metals from the environment. Arctic waters hold rare earth metals, crucial for tech like wind turbines. Could kelp be the answer? Maybe.



If managed correctly, kelp cultivation could offer a sustainable way to harvest these elements, reducing reliance on traditional mining, which scars landscapes and pollutes ecosystems.



At the same time, kelp could serve as a living sensor, a way to track pollution levels in Arctic waters. By monitoring changes in its elemental composition, researchers might be able to map contamination hotspots and predict where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-day-2025-a-global-call-to-protect-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental threats</a> are most severe.



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



The future of Arctic kelp remains uncertain. With the Arctic warming, run-off levels will only increase. 



The delicate balance that has sustained these underwater forests for millennia is shifting in ways scientists are only beginning to grasp.



Will kelp adapt, or will these forests shrink, taking with them the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-otters-have-protected-california-kelp-forests-for-a-century/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> they support?



One thing is clear: kelp is at a crossroads. It is both a victim and a potential solution - threatened by climate change yet offering a key to understanding and mitigating its impacts.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-82287-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Arctic kelp is absorbing toxic metals from melting glaciers

The Arctic is changing fast. Ancient ice is melting, glaciers...

Earth has faced many climate challenges, but none compare to the catastrophe that unfolded 250 million years ago. The End-Permian Event (EPE) stands as the most severe extinction in history, wiping out more than 80% of marine species and devastating life on land. 



Scientists have extensively studied its effects on ocean ecosystems, but the impact of mass extinction on forests remains less clear.



A team of researchers from University College Cork (<a href="https://www.ucc.ie/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCC</a>), the <a href="https://uconn.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Connecticut</a>, and the <a href="https://www.nhm-wien.ac.at" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Natural History Museum</a> of Vienna has uncovered how plants responded to this crisis. 



Their findings reveal that ecosystem recovery was slow, complex, and shaped by extreme climate swings. 



By studying fossilized plants and rocks from the Sydney Basin in Australia, the team reconstructed a multi-million-year journey of forest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-climate-solutions-mixed-forests-store-more-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survival</a>, extinction, and eventual regrowth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-worst-mass-extinction-in-history">Worst mass extinction in history</h2>



The End-Permian Event, which occurred around 252.3 to 251.9 million years ago, caused the collapse of gymnosperm-supported ecosystems. 



Over 80% of ocean species vanished, making it the most severe mass extinction ever recorded. While its effects on marine life are well documented, its impact on land <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-play-an-overlooked-role-in-the-climate-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> has remained unclear.



Researchers examined fossilized plants and rocks from eastern Australia’s Sydney Basin, a region that was once located near the South Pole (∼70°S). 



Using sedimentology, biostratigraphy, and stable carbon isotope analysis, they traced the timing and sequence of gymnosperm reestablishment across different latitudes. 



The results of the analysis highlight the staggered nature of recovery, rather than a smooth, uninterrupted process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cooler-temperatures-helped-forests-recover">Cooler temperatures helped forests recover</h2>



After the End-Permian Event, the first plants to return were peltasperm seed ferns. They managed to build stable ecosystems, holding on for about 200,000 years. 



But <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-still-fighting-climate-change-against-all-odds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature</a> didn’t stand still. Over time, voltzialean conifers took over, spreading across the land and thriving for an impressive 1.5 million years.



Then, disaster struck again. Around 250.3 to 249.6 million years ago, global temperatures soared during the "Late Smithian Thermal Maximum."



The heat was too much for the conifer forests, and they collapsed. Their disappearance left space for a new kind of survivor - pleuromeian lycophytes. These plants were tough. They didn’t need much to grow, making them perfect for harsh conditions.



For 800,000 years, these small, shrubby plants dominated the land. But nothing lasts forever. 



As temperatures finally began to drop during the "Smithian-Spathian Event" around 249.6 to 249.2 million years ago, the environment shifted once again, opening the door for a new wave of plant life to reshape the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forests-recover-but-extinction-is-forever">Forests recover, but extinction is forever</h2>



The SSE brought much-needed relief to struggling <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-rich-tree-diversity-adapt-better-changing-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a>. 



As the climate cooled, a new kind of plant took over - umkomasialean seed ferns. These plants thrived and spread across the high-latitude forests of Gondwana, shaping the landscapes of the Middle and Late Triassic. They helped stabilize ecosystems that had been in chaos for millions of years.



But recovery didn’t happen the same way everywhere. In many parts of the world, pleuromeian lycophytes - a type of tough, shrubby plant - quickly spread after the End-Permian Event. However, in the polar south, this process was much slower.



It took around 1.7 million years for these plants to finally establish themselves. This delay reveals that recovery from mass extinction wasn’t simple or predictable. Some places rebounded faster than others, while some struggled for much longer.



Even though forests eventually grew dense again, they were not the same. The plants that filled these new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-are-relocating-in-a-race-against-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> were completely different from those that had dominated before the extinction. Nature rebuilt itself, but in a way no one could have expected.



“The term ‘recovery’ can be misleading. Forests recover eventually, but extinction is forever," said Dr. Chris Mays, leader of the Mass Extinction Group at University College Cork.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-ancient-forest-extinction">Lessons from ancient forest extinction</h2>



Studying how ancient ecosystems recovered from extreme climate shifts gives us clues about what might happen to plants today. The way they adapted back then can help scientists predict how modern plant life will respond to environmental changes.



Plants do much more than just grow. They form the foundation of nature’s balance, providing food for animals and humans alike. 



They also help regulate the Earth's climate by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen. When plants thrive, ecosystems stay stable. When they struggle, the entire planet feels the impact.



“This research highlights how crucial plants are, not just as the base of land food chains, but also as natural carbon sinks that stabilize Earth’s climate,” explained UCC researcher Marcos Amores, the study’s lead author.



“The disruption of these systems can have impacts lasting hundreds of thousands of years, so protecting today’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-face-rising-damage-risks-as-their-diversity-dwindles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> is more important than ever.”



Earth’s past reveals a clear lesson: nature can recover, but it takes time. The resilience of plant life has shaped the world we know today, making conservation efforts essential for the future of our ecosystems.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/gsa/gsabulletin/article-abstract/doi/10.1130/B38017.1/652555/Age-controlled-south-polar-floral-trends-show-a?redirectedFrom=fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geological Society of America Bulletin</a>.



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How forests rose again after the planet’s most extreme extinction

Earth has faced many climate challenges, but none compare to...

Imagine biting into a juicier, tastier tomato or cooking with an eggplant that’s not just flavorful but also larger. Scientists have made a discovery that could bring this to reality by identifying genes that control fruit size.



Researchers at Johns Hopkins University (<a href="https://www.jhu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JHU</a>) and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (<a href="https://www.cshl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CSHL</a>) have mapped genetic sequences in tomatoes and eggplants, paving the way for the development of new, improved varieties.



Their findings, published in Nature, could transform agriculture, particularly in regions where local varieties are too small to support commercial production.



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



Gene modification for plants is basically science giving nature a little upgrade. Scientists tweak plant DNA to make crops stronger, more nutritious, or resistant to pests and harsh weather. 



Instead of waiting generations for traditional breeding to get the perfect traits, genetic engineering speeds up the process. 



For example, some modified crops can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insect-populations-dramatically-declining-around-the-world-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fight off insects</a> without needing pesticides, while others grow in salty soil or survive droughts. 



In this instance, modifying the genes of tomato plants will provide bigger and better tomatoes.



This tech has already changed farming, making it more efficient and reducing the need for chemical sprays that can harm the environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-agriculture-with-one-seed">Changing agriculture with one seed</h2>



“Once you’ve done the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/boosting-crop-colors-with-gene-editing-can-improve-weed-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gene editing</a>, all it takes is one seed to start a revolution,” said Michael Schatz, a geneticist at Johns Hopkins University and co-lead author of the study. 



“With the right approvals, we could mail an engineered seed to Africa or anywhere it’s needed and open up entirely new agricultural markets. There’s huge potential to translate these advances into real-world impact.”



The study is part of a larger initiative to map the full genomes of 22 crop plants within the nightshade family, which includes tomatoes, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crops-of-the-future-potatoes-that-thrive-in-heatwaves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potatoes</a>, and eggplants.



The researchers used computational analysis to compare genetic maps and track how genes evolved. They discovered that, over time, more than half of these genes had been duplicated.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-genetic-changes-over-time">Tracing genetic changes over time</h2>



“Over tens of millions of years, there’s this constant churn of DNA sequences being added and lost,” Schatz explained. 



“The same process can occur for gene sequences, where entire genes duplicate or disappear. When we started looking, we noticed these changes were very widespread, but we didn’t yet know what those changes meant for the plants.”



To answer that question, researchers at the Boyce Thomson Institute used CRISPR-Cas9 technology to edit these genes. Scientists at Cold Spring Harbor then grew the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/engineered-gmo-plants-make-baby-formula-healthy-as-breast-milk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">engineered plants</a> to observe the results.



The duplicated genes, known as paralogs, turned out to be essential for traits like fruit size, shape, and flowering time. 



One experiment involved turning off both copies of a gene called CLV3 in the forest nightshade, a plant native to Australia. 



The result was that misshapen, “weird, bubbly, disorganized” fruits were formed. These wouldn’t be viable for grocery stores. However, tweaking just one copy of the gene led to plants with larger fruits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-treasure-map-for-tomatoes">Genetic treasure map for tomatoes</h2>



“Having full genome sequences for these species is like having a new treasure map,” said Katharine Jenike, who helped assemble the genome sequences as a Ph.D. student in Schatz’s lab.



“We can see where and when one genetic path diverges from another and then explore that place in the genetic information where we wouldn’t have thought to look. This allowed us to find the size-genes in a really unexpected place.”



One of the most exciting discoveries came from the African eggplant, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/engineered-plant-microbiomes-the-future-of-crop-protection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crop</a> grown across Africa and Brazil. Scientists identified a gene, SaetSCPL25-like, which controls the number of seed cavities, or locules, inside the fruit. 



When they edited this gene in tomatoes, they found that increasing the number of locules resulted in larger tomatoes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tomatoes-eggplants-and-genes">Tomatoes, eggplants, and genes</h2>



These findings suggest that careful gene editing could lead to larger, more commercially viable tomatoes and eggplants.



“This work shows the importance of studying many species together. We leveraged decades of work in tomato genetics to rapidly advance African eggplants, and along the way we found entirely new genes in African eggplants that reciprocally advance tomatoes," Schatz explained.



"We call this ‘pan-genetics,’ and it opens endless opportunities to bring many new fruits, foods, and flavors to dinner plates around the world.”



With continued research and the right regulatory steps, these discoveries could change how we grow and consume some of our favorite fruits and vegetables in the years ahead.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-tomato-plants-and-gene-editing">Future of tomato plants and gene editing</h2>



Beyond simply increasing fruit size, this research has broader implications for global agriculture. 



In many parts of the world, farmers struggle with low-yield crops that are not suitable for large-scale farming. 



With gene editing, scientists could tailor plants to specific environments, making them more resistant to climate change, pests, and diseases.



By using advanced genetic tools, researchers hope to create crops that not only grow larger but also require fewer resources, such water and fertilizers.



This could make <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-cover-crops-may-be-the-future-of-sustainable-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">farming more sustainable</a> and reduce environmental impacts.



Future studies may focus on improving taste, nutritional value, and shelf life, which would ensure that these new varieties don’t just benefit farmers but also provide better food options for consumers.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08619-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Gene modification can create bigger, better tomatoes, but should we do it?

Imagine biting into a juicier, tastier tomato or cooking with...

In the vast, arid landscapes where water is scarce, only the toughest plants survive. Among them, the agave plant stands out - not only for its role in tequila production but also for its remarkable ability to store and retain water.



Scientists have long studied how desert plants adapt to extreme conditions. Now, a study using advanced imaging techniques has uncovered deeper insights into the agave’s survival mechanisms.



The researchers used special imaging technology to see how agave plants store and use water. They found that these plants keep moisture at both the leaf and tiny molecular levels. This discovery could help create <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-earths-most-endangered-plants-from-extinction-proving-difficult-botanic-gardens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crops</a> that need less water and improve how processed foods stay fresh.



The results not only highlight the resilience of agave plants but also point to potential solutions for global food security in the face of climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analyzing-agave-hydration-levels">Analyzing agave hydration levels</h2>



The scientists used terahertz spectroscopy, a non-invasive technique that falls between microwave and mid-infrared technologies, to analyze the hydration levels of agave <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-may-stop-absorbing-carbon-if-temperatures-continue-to-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a>.



This method allows researchers to map water distribution within plant tissues and observe how fructans, a type of sugar, help retain moisture at the molecular level.



“Understanding how plants adapt to dry conditions could lead to better farming practices and be used to develop crops that require less water,” said Monica Ortiz-Martinez from the Centro de Investigaciones en Optica (<a href="https://www.cio.mx/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CIO</a>) in Mexico.



“This could lead to higher crop yields with lower water consumption, benefiting farmers, food production and global food security.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-plant-hydration-levels">Measuring plant hydration levels</h2>



Terahertz waves, which exist between microwaves and the mid-infrared spectrum, have unique interactions with water. 



Since water strongly absorbs terahertz radiation, the researchers used this property to measure hydration levels within agave tissues. The technique allowed them to visualize water distribution and examine how fructans function at the molecular level.



The study, published in Applied Optics, demonstrates that terahertz spectroscopy is a non-invasive tool for plant analysis. 



The researchers found that agave plants survive harsh conditions by storing water in specialized leaf structures. Additionally, fructans act as molecular sponges, ensuring that moisture remains available even in extreme drought.



“In the food industry, our findings on agave fructans and their exceptional water-binding properties could be used to develop new food ingredients that improve moisture retention, texture and shelf life, especially in dried or processed foods,” said Enrique Castro-Camus from CIO. 



“This could lead to healthier, longer-lasting food products with fewer artificial preservatives.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intersection-of-biology-and-food-science">Intersection of biology and food science</h2>



The study began as a collaboration between CIO’s Applied Terahertz Science group and June Simpson at Centro de Investigaciones Avanzadas (<a href="https://www.cinvestav.mx/irapuato/investigacion/directorio-de-investigacion/June-Kilpatrick-Simpson-Williamson" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CINVESTAV</a>). Their focus was on water distribution in agave leaves and the role of fructans in hydration. 



Around the same time, CIO researchers partnered with Socorro Villanueva from Centro de Investigación y Asistencia en Tecnología y Diseño del Estado de Jalisco (<a href="https://ciatej.mx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CIATEJ</a>) to explore how fructans protect frozen foods from damage. These projects merged to provide a comprehensive understanding of agave’s survival mechanisms.



For their analysis, the researchers used a time-domain terahertz spectrometer with a femtosecond fiber laser and sub-millimeter pixel resolution.



Thin leaf slices were placed between a terahertz emitter and detector, enabling hydration mapping through water absorption measurements. The spectrometer was later reconfigured to analyze fructan solutions in greater detail.



“Our research introduces several key innovations in the study of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-how-climate-change-will-alter-plant-growth-cycles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a> hydration using terahertz technology,” said Ortiz-Martinez.



“One of the most significant advancements is non-invasive water detection - unlike traditional methods that require cutting, drying and weighing plant samples, terahertz imaging enables real-time hydration analysis without damaging the plant.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-agave-plants-retain-water">How agave plants retain water</h2>



The study revealed that agave leaves have a unique water storage system. Their inner core remains hydrated, while the outer layer acts as a barrier to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-understanding-of-light-detection-in-plants-may-revolutionize-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">minimize water loss</a>. 



Fructans play a critical role in this process by forming porous structures that trap and retain water molecules. This water retention capability is stronger than that of other sugars, making fructans vital for agave survival.



By combining tissue-level storage with molecular water retention, agaves have evolved into one of the most drought-resistant plants. These findings could have significant implications for crop cultivation in water-scarce regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-non-invasive-plant-monitoring">Expanding non-invasive plant monitoring</h2>



Researchers now aim to expand terahertz spectroscopy applications to study drought-resistant mechanisms in agave and other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-bacteria-help-plants-stay-calm-and-keep-growing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant species</a>. The goal is to understand how different crops manage hydration, particularly those essential for food security.



Future developments may lead to a portable terahertz system for use in fields and greenhouses. Machine learning algorithms could further enhance this technology by analyzing terahertz images in real-time, enabling the detection of drought stress before visible signs appear.



The study highlights the importance of collaboration among experts in optics, plant physiology and food science. Researchers believe that integrating these disciplines will lead to practical applications for agriculture and food production.



“By advancing non-invasive plant monitoring methods, our research lays the foundation for smarter, more sustainable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-climates-force-plants-to-compete-with-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agricultural practices</a>, ultimately benefiting both farmers and consumers while helping to conserve natural resources for future generations,” said Castro-Camus.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://opg.optica.org/ao/abstract.cfm?uri=ao-64-8-2057" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Applied Optics</a>.



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Agave plants: Nature’s answer to water conservation

In the vast, arid landscapes where water is scarce, only...

Many people know dogs have an amazing sense of smell. It helps them find lost hikers, sniff out contraband, and detect health issues. Their noses pick up odors we barely notice, offering an invisible map of the world around them.



Scientists have taken a closer look at this skill by scanning <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-smell-human-stress-and-it-makes-them-feel-gloomy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">canine brains</a> while they work their sniffing magic. The study was led by Professor Zeev Zalevsky from the Kofkin Faculty of Engineering at <a href="https://engineering.biu.ac.il/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bar-Ilan University</a>. 



The researchers found key insights in the <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24894-amygdala" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amygdala</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482171/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hippocampus</a>, and <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK11158/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">olfactory bulb</a> of four dog breeds, which shed light on how dogs separate one odor from another.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-read-smells-with-their-brain">Dogs read smells with their brain</h2>



Dogs have a larger set of <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/mid/NIHMS22337/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">odor receptor genes</a> than humans, allowing them to detect scents in trace amounts. 



Their noses send signals to the olfactory bulb, where initial processing happens. Next, the signals reach deeper regions of the brain linked to memory, motivation, and emotion.



The research team used a remote optical sensor that could scan a dog’s brain activity while it took in four different smells. Experts say this approach might open the door for observing real-time <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-detect-scents-better-than-the-most-advanced-lab-tools/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">canine</a> responses without bulky equipment.



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



“The findings show that the amygdala is crucial in the way dogs process and react to odors, with specific scents triggering distinct emotional and memory responses, and we are capable of optically detecting their brain activity in this region,” said Professor Zalevsky.&nbsp;



”This discovery could be the first step toward creating a device that enables us to better understand and interpret the unique way dogs perceive and differentiate smells.”



The amygdala is often associated with emotion and survival instincts. The researchers saw this region activate differently when the dogs sampled each odor, highlighting why some smells bring about strong behaviors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-the-smell-response-of-dogs">Tracking the smell response of dogs</h2>



“Our next step is to develop a portable, Wi-Fi-controlled device equipped with a mini camera and laser system, which could be mounted on a dog’s head and used to monitor its olfactory <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trained-dogs-can-detect-bladder-cancer-in-other-dogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">responses</a> in real time,” said Dr. Yafim Beiderman, an expert in Professor Zalevsky’s Optical Research Lab at Bar-Ilan University.



This technology could potentially transform how dogs are used in substance detection or medical diagnosis.



Some experts have looked at dogs for <a href="https://www.bmj.com/content/329/7468/712" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer screening</a> and diabetes alerts. A deeper understanding of their scent processing could speed up these efforts, making it possible to gather data without waiting for canine training to finish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scanning-from-a-distance">Scanning from a distance</h2>



Using lasers to pick up tiny vibrations on the surface of the skull may sound out of the ordinary. Yet <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0263224123007145" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studies</a> show that such non-invasive methods can sense blood flow and neural activity in humans. 



The researchers adapted that idea for dogs, focusing on specific brain zones where odor signals land.



Data from the sensor was processed by a machine-learning system, revealing that each area of the brain responded in unique ways. This led to the conclusion that the emotional center is a heavyweight in scent separation.



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



Police often rely on K9 units to sniff out drugs and other illegal substances. A remote brain scanner might help them interpret the dog’s recognition of a target odor without confusion or guesswork. 



In medical fields, a quick read of a dog’s amygdala response may one day spot an illness before a patient notices symptoms.



Teams that conduct search-and-rescue missions also stand to gain. Any gadget that clarifies what a dog is smelling could guide them toward trapped individuals more efficiently.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-shift-in-how-we-see-dogs">A shift in how we see dogs</h2>



The research emphasizes that dogs are more than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/petting-a-dog-might-be-the-easiest-way-to-reduce-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">loyal companions</a>. Their noses have been described as sophisticated analyzers that monitor odors for emotion-based clues. 



Decoding those responses may add new dimensions to how people partner with animals in daily tasks.



A deeper look at the hippocampus in dogs may also reveal how memories of smells guide their actions. The research team noted that future studies could expand to more breeds and more scents, refining the technology along the way.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-subtle-scent-triggers-from-a-dog-s-brain">Subtle scent triggers from a dog's brain</h2>



Some individuals rely on service dogs for anxiety or panic disorders. Interpreting real-time signals from the dog’s brain might uncover subtle scent triggers that a person hasn’t recognized. 



This concept extends to therapy animals, especially if professionals want to measure how dogs respond to stressful environments.



Researchers have found that dog noses can often detect changes in body chemistry, sometimes months or years before medical tests confirm a disease. Real-time tracking of this skill could produce a fast approach for problem detection, bridging the communication gap between species.



Scientists plan to explore broader ways to translate canine brainwaves into easy-to-read data. There might come a time when a single device reveals how dogs process everything from everyday household smells to suspicious substances. 



The study is published in the <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jbio.202400501" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Biophotonics</a>.



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How dogs are able to "feel" smells may help keep us safe

Many people know dogs have an amazing sense of smell....

Imagine the world as if you are a krill in the Southern Ocean, where any moment a torpedo-shaped penguin could appear, devouring thousands of your fellow krill at lightning speed. Now, new research suggests that even the faintest hint of penguin droppings in the water is enough to prompt krill into escape behavior.



“Here we show for the first time that a small amount of penguin guano causes a sudden change in the feeding and swimming behaviors of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-satellites-track-antarctic-krill-are-these-tiny-ocean-shrimp-in-danger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic krill</a>,” said Nicole Hellessey, a postdoctoral researcher at the <a href="https://www.bigelow.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences</a> in Maine.



Antarctic krill play a vital role in the Southern Ocean. They serve as a major carbon sink and provide food for a large array of species, from penguins to whales. 



By some estimates, approximately 700 trillion adult Antarctic krill still swim these frigid waters, though their populations have drifted further south over time, likely due to climate change, diminishing sea ice, and acidifying ocean conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-penguin-poop-to-krill-behavior">Linking penguin poop to krill behavior</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zooplankton-poop-can-be-used-to-store-carbon-in-the-deep-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zooplankton</a> are highly sensitive to chemical cues - from signals guiding them to food or potential mates to indicators of pollution. Hellessey and her colleagues sought to determine whether krill also react to the scent of predators. 



Their study zeroed in on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/adelie-penguins-use-sea-ice-to-migrate-thousands-of-miles-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Adélie penguins</a>, the southernmost-breeding penguin species, which depend on Antarctic krill for 99.6% of their diet. An adult Adélie can consume as much as 1.6 kilograms of krill each day, and the global Adélie population collectively devours around 1.5 million tons per year.



Researchers aboard the vessels Laurence M Gould and Nathaniel B Palmer in the Bransfield Strait in late 2022 netted live Antarctic krill, which they then placed in aquaria at Palmer Station. 



Meanwhile, bird researchers had collected 78 grams of Adélie guano from a colony on Torgersen Island off the Antarctic Peninsula near Palmer Station. “Smells like rotten shellfish. Not pleasant to handle,” said Hellessey, describing the guano.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-abrupt-behavior-shifts-in-krill">Abrupt behavior shifts in krill</h2>



To test the krill’s reaction to the guano, the scientists ran trials using six to eight krill per five-minute session in a flume tank held at 1.5°C, with lights dimmed to simulate conditions at about 40 meters below the surface - the most productive layer in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carbon-storage-mystery-emerges-in-the-southern-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southern Ocean</a>. 



Water flowed through the flume at either 3 centimeters or 5.9 centimeters per second, and it contained either algae alone, penguin guano alone, or both combined. Each setup was tested four times.



The researchers used two automated cameras to record the movements of four krill during each trial, capturing precise data on each animal’s 3D position as well as speed and swimming direction.



The data revealed that in control settings, krill generally practiced “rheotaxis,” swimming straight upstream against the current. 



But in the presence of Adélie guano, their behavior shifted abruptly: they began to vary their swimming speed more, reaching between 1.2 and 1.5 times their usual pace, and they performed three times as many turns - over an angle that was on average 1.4 times greater than before.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-krill-make-sacrifices-to-avoid-penguins">Krill make sacrifices to avoid penguins</h2>



A second experiment showed that guano in the water caused krill to reduce their algae consumption by 64%, plunging from 12.7 micrograms of carbon per hour per krill to 4.6 micrograms. 



This indicates that the frequent changes in swimming direction came at a cost, making them less efficient at feeding.



The researchers interpreted these dramatic differences in speed and direction as part of an avoidance response. 



“Such behavior to escape from nearby penguins would greatly increase the krill’s odds of survival. And these odds would increase exponentially in a swarm, if their neighbors could detect the same cues and communicate the danger to each other,” Hellessey said.



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



Though the team uncovered the behavioral shift, it is still unclear which specific compounds from penguin guano set off these alarms for krill.&nbsp;



“We hypothesize that Antarctic krill are avoiding the odor of ground-up krill and fish in the penguins’ guano. We thus expect krill to show similar swimming behaviors and suppressed feeding around seals, whales, and other types of krill predators in Antarctica,” Hellessey noted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-krill-signals-in-a-warming-ocean">Krill signals in a warming ocean</h2>



Given that these signals and their resulting behaviors occur in the often vast Southern Ocean, open-water conditions could dilute the cues and alter how krill respond. Moreover, warming oceans and acidification may alter how effectively these cues travel or how quickly the krill can respond.&nbsp;



“We don’t yet know how the ability of krill to sense these chemical cues and their escape behavior towards them might vary when diluted in open waters, or under global warming or ocean acidification conditions," said Hellessey. 



"Any changes to krill’s behavior could have major impacts on the future Southern Ocean, as Antarctic krill are a keystone species in this ecosystem."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-broader-ecological-shifts">Predicting broader ecological shifts</h2>



Ultimately, this study adds an important layer to our knowledge of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/danger-zones-climate-change-is-altering-predator-prey-dynamics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predator-prey interactions</a> in polar waters. As climate shifts reshape the Southern Ocean, understanding how krill perceive and react to predator signals may help predict broader ecological shifts.&nbsp;



If krill alter their movements and feeding drastically, it could influence entire marine food webs and carbon cycling processes - a reminder that even simple chemical cues can produce outsized effects on oceanic ecosystems.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2025.1508287" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Marine Science</a>.



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Just a whiff of penguin poop can send krill into a frenzy

Imagine the world as if you are a krill in...

Human activity in the Galápagos Islands is quietly reshaping wildlife behavior. A new study published in the journal Animal Behaviour reveals that Galápagos yellow warblers (Setophaga petechia aureola) grow more aggressive in response to traffic noise. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-americas-birds-scientists-declare-a-full-on-emergency-in-the-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a>, found only on the islands, respond differently based on their proximity to roads.



​The study was led by researchers from <a href="https://www.aru.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anglia Ruskin University</a> and the <a href="https://klf.univie.ac.at/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Konrad Lorenz Research Centre</a> at the University of Vienna. Using recorded bird songs and simulated traffic sounds, the team observed how warblers reacted in different territories.​



The results showed birds living near roads exhibited more aggression, while those farther away behaved more passively when exposed to the same noise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-human-impact-on-islands">Growing human impact on islands</h2>



The Galápagos Islands lie over 500 miles off Ecuador’s coast. Once a quiet haven of biodiversity, the region now feels the strain of human presence. 



A rapid rise in population and tourism has increased the number of vehicles on roads. This shift transforms the once-isolated environment, bringing unexpected consequences for its native <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-adapt-their-survival-strategies-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a>.



The Galápagos yellow warbler, a subspecies genetically distinct from its mainland relatives, serves as a biological indicator of this change. The researchers studied the birds on the islands of Floreana and Santa Cruz.



In both regions, vehicle noise prompted warblers to behave more aggressively, even on Floreana, where only around 10 vehicles are in use.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds-change-their-songs-near-traffic">Birds change their songs near traffic</h2>



The scientists tested <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-are-moving-north-and-breeding-earlier-in-a-changing-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird responses</a> by playing songs through a speaker, simulating a territorial intruder. Sometimes the sounds were paired with traffic noise. 



When this occurred near roads, birds became more aggressive - flying near the speaker and singing longer. In quieter areas, birds became less confrontational when noise accompanied the song.



This pattern suggests that long-term exposure matters. Warblers with more experience around noise adjusted their behavior in ways that could help maintain territorial control despite sound interference.



“Birds use song during territorial defense as an aggressive signal. However, if external noise such as traffic interferes with the signaling, effectively blocking this communication channel, increasing physical aggression would be an appropriate response,” noted Dr. Caglar Akcay, senior lecturer in behavioural ecology at Anglia Ruskin University.



The research suggests these birds are learning to adapt. Changes in song length and pitch help their calls rise above low-frequency traffic sounds. 



In all territories, birds raised the minimum frequency of their songs when traffic was present. This adjustment could improve their chances of being heard.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behavioral-flexibility-and-conservation">Behavioral flexibility and conservation</h2>



The findings shed light on the unexpected reach of human activity. Even in the Galápagos - long seen as a sanctuary for natural evolution - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-are-breathing-in-plastic-what-does-that-mean-for-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> now must compete with the noise of progress.



“Our results show that the change in aggressive responses in yellow warblers occurred mainly near roads. Birds occupying roadside territories on both islands, and therefore having regular experience of traffic noise, may have learned to increase physical aggression when the territorial intrusion was accompanied by traffic noise,” said Dr. Akcay.



Beyond aggression, warblers demonstrate flexibility. They tweak their songs to cut through the clamor. These subtle changes show nature’s resilience, but they also signal a need for reflection.



“Our study shows the importance of considering behavioral plasticity in conservation efforts and developing strategies to mitigate the effects of noise pollution on wildlife. It also highlights the significant impact of human activities on wildlife behavior, even in relatively remote locations such as the Galápagos Islands,” noted Dr. Akcay.



Understanding this behavioral flexibility may guide future conservation. It reminds us that protecting biodiversity requires more than preserving land - it demands attention to the noise we bring with us.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-traffic-noise-changes-birds-behavior">Traffic noise changes birds’ behavior</h2>



This study urges conservationists and policymakers to look beyond visible damage. Roads, buildings, and pollution are easy to spot. Noise, on the other hand, slips in silently, altering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-birds-can-handle-climate-variability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> in less obvious ways. 



Yet its effects are clear. For the Galápagos yellow warbler, this may mean adjusting song and behavior just to be heard and understood.



The warbler’s story is a quiet warning: the modern world reaches even the most distant corners. If we are to protect these natural wonders, we must consider not only what we build, but what we sound like as we do.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0003347225000466" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Animal Behaviour</a>.



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Some birds get 'road rage' when exposed to traffic noise

Human activity in the Galápagos Islands is quietly reshaping wildlife...

Modern birds are closely related to dinosaurs, as seen by comparing flightless species like chickens and ostriches, which walk on two hind legs, or predatory hawks and eagles with their keen senses and sharp talons, to small theropod dinosaurs.&nbsp;



Still, birds have diverged in crucial ways from their reptilian predecessors. One vital turning point was their development of larger brains, which spurred changes in skull size and shape.



Recent work by researchers at the <a href="https://www.uchicago.edu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Chicago</a> and the <a href="https://missouri.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Missouri</a> demonstrates how these physical transformations affected how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-americas-birds-scientists-declare-a-full-on-emergency-in-the-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> move and utilize their beaks to eat and interact with the world - adaptations that helped them become one of the most diverse lineages on Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-nature-of-a-wiggly-skull">Complex nature of a “wiggly” skull</h2>



Unlike many other animals, modern birds, along with certain snakes and fishes, have skulls whose jaws and palates are not firmly fixed in place.&nbsp;



Alec Wilken, a graduate student in integrative biology at the University of Chicago and lead author of this new study, calls this kind of flexible anatomy “wiggly.” He notes that such a trait complicates attempts to understand its function.&nbsp;



“Just because you have a joint there, that doesn’t mean that you know how it moves. So, you also have to think about how muscles are going to be pulling on the joint, what kind of torque they have, and how other joints in the head limit the mobility,” he explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-how-bird-skulls-evolved">Investigating how bird skulls evolved</h2>



Wilken first became involved in this project in 2015 while studying at the University of Missouri. 



There, Casey Holliday, an associate professor of pathology and anatomical sciences, had received support from the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Science Foundation</a> (NSF) to investigate how bird skulls, jaw muscles, and feeding mechanics evolved from their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-did-dinosaurs-come-from-missing-fossils-hold-the-secret/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur</a> lineage to modern birds.



Wilken contributed to the research by analyzing data from computer tomography (CT) scans of fossils and existing birds, as well as the skulls of other reptiles such as alligators. 



The gathered data then supported the creation of 3D models that track muscle positions, movements, and the physics of how they operate together.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advantages-of-modern-bird-skulls">Advantages of modern bird skulls</h2>



One distinctive feature of modern birds is referred to as “cranial kinesis,” which is the capacity to move different portions of the skull independently. This affords birds an evolutionary edge, letting them open or expand their palates and use their beaks in various ways.



“Having a wiggly head like this really gives them a lot of evolutionary benefits,” Wilken said. Parrots, for instance, employ their beaks to climb, while other birds break open tough seeds and nuts.&nbsp;



“In some ways, the beak functions like a surrogate hand, but being able to move the palate around while eating is also mission critical to helping them acquire food and survive.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-path-from-dinosaurs-to-birds">The path from dinosaurs to birds</h2>



From analyzing these 3D models, the scientists observed that as non-avian theropod dinosaurs developed increasingly larger brains and skulls, muscles shifted into arrangements that allowed for more mobile palates and jaws.&nbsp;



Consequently, these transformations increased muscle force and supported cranial kinesis in the majority of today’s birds.



“We see this cascade of changes that happened along the dinosaur to bird transition,” said Holliday. “A large part of it hinges upon when birds evolved a relatively large <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-brain-study-will-shed-new-light-on-avian-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a>. Just like in humans, bigger brains drive a lot of changes in the skull.”



Over time, paleontological findings have shown that the line between dinosaurs and birds is considerably blurred, especially since many dinosaurs sported feathers and some were capable of flight.&nbsp;



However, the scientists noted that truly flexible skulls and palates appeared later than species such as Archaeopteryx, leading them to speculate that cranial kinesis may turn out to be a key factor distinguishing modern birds from more primitive dinosaur-like birds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-blueprint-for-future-understanding">A blueprint for future understanding</h2>



While it is well established that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-secrets-of-the-evolution-of-prehistoric-reptiles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prehistoric reptiles</a> gave rise to the birds we now see flying overhead, the genetic and mechanical steps along that journey remain a topic of intense investigation.&nbsp;



This latest research strengthens the idea that the interplay between a bigger brain and skull modifications allowed birds to free up their jaws and palates, leading to vast ecological success.



Ultimately, the improved skull flexibility and diversified feeding methods among birds mirror the complicated interplay of evolutionary pressures that have continued since the time of dinosaurs.&nbsp;



The new study represents only one step in unravelling how birds learned to harness their beaks’ capabilities, and how earlier dinosaur species formed the foundation for today’s avian biodiversity.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2411138122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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‘Wiggly’ skulls helped birds evolve from dinosaurs

Modern birds are closely related to dinosaurs, as seen by...

Scientists have identified a new fossil species of freshwater fish, Ferruaspis brocksi, from a site near Gulgong, in NSW, Australia.



This discovery, led by Dr. Matthew McCurry from the <a href="https://australian.museum" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian Museum</a> and <a href="https://www.unsw.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNSW Sydney</a>, provides a rare glimpse into Australia’s ancient aquatic life. 



The fossil, which is estimated to be 15 million years old, preserves both the fish's stomach contents and its color patterns. The Journal of Vertebrate Palaeontology has published the findings.



Ferruaspis brocksi belongs to the Osmeriformes order, which includes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-fish-had-flexible-joints-like-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> like the Australian Grayling and Australian Smelt.



It is the first freshwater smelt fossil found in Australia. The species was named in honor of Professor Jochen J. Brocks from the <a href="https://www.anu.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian National University</a>, who contributed to fossil discoveries at McGraths Flat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-the-evolution-of-osmeriformes">Tracing the evolution of Osmeriformes</h2>



Dr. McCurry emphasized that before the discovery of this fossil, scientists lacked evidence to confirm when Osmeriformes first arrived in Australia.



“The discovery of the 15 million-year-old freshwater fish fossil offers us an unprecedented opportunity to understand Australia’s ancient ecosystems and the evolution of its fish species, specifically the Osmeriformes group during the Miocene epoch, 11-15 million years ago,” McCurry said.



Without fossils, researchers could not determine whether these fish had <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiktaalik-fossil-discovery-sheds-light-on-how-fish-walked-onto-land/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolved</a> significantly over time. This new find provides crucial evidence for understanding how they adapted to ancient Australian waters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-did-the-fish-fossil-reveal">What did the fish fossil reveal?</h2>



The well-preserved fossil reveals fascinating details about the fish’s diet. The stomach contents show that it fed on various invertebrates, mainly small phantom midge larvae. 



This level of preservation is rare and helps scientists reconstruct past <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plesiosaur-fossil-contains-soft-tissue-preserved-for-183-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> with greater accuracy.



“One of the fossils even shows a parasite attached to the tail of the fish. It’s a juvenile freshwater mussel called a glochidium. These juvenile mussels attach themselves to the gills or tails of fish to hitch rides up and down streams,” McCurry added.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/fish_Ferruaspis-brocksi_fossil_stomach-contents_15-million-years-old_credit-Salthy-Dingo_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/fish_Ferruaspis_fossil_stomach-contents_15-million-years-old_credit-Salthy-Dingo_1s.webp" alt="A 15-million-year-old fish fossil, Ferruaspis brocksi, with preserved stomach contents. Credit: Salthy Dingo" class="wp-image-1962871"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A 15-million-year-old fish fossil, Ferruaspis brocksi, with preserved stomach contents. Credit: Salthy Dingo</figcaption></figure>



The species’ name reflects its discovery in iron-rich rock. “Ferru” comes from the Latin word “ferrum,” meaning iron, while “brocksi” honors Professor Brocks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-honoring-a-scientific-contribution">Honoring a scientific contribution</h2>



Professor Brocks expressed excitement about having this fossil species named after him.



“Collecting fossils at McGrath Flat is a highlight for me every year. Splitting the rust-red slabs of rock is like opening an ancient book, revealing the creatures that inhabited an Australian oxbow lake some 15 million years ago," exclaimed Professor Brocks.



"This little fish is one of the most beautiful fossils there, and finding the first vertebrate among the abundant plant and insect fossils was a real surprise. Having F. brocksi named after me is a real joy.” 



The McGraths Flat fossil site continues to provide remarkable insights into prehistoric life, and contributes to a better understanding of Australia’s ecological past.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revealing-the-fish-s-coloration">Revealing the fish’s coloration</h2>



Dr. Michael Frese from the <a href="https://www.canberra.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Canberra</a> and <a href="https://www.csiro.au/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CSIRO</a> highlighted another exciting aspect of the research - the ability to determine the fish’s color pattern.



“The fish was darker on its dorsal surface, lighter in color on its belly and had two lateral stripes running along its side,” Dr. Frese said.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/fish_Ferruaspis-brocksi_fossil_illustration_15-million-years-old_credit-Alex-Boersma_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/fish_Ferruaspis-brocksi_fossil_illustration_15-million-years-old_credit-Alex-Boersma_1s.webp" alt="A school of Ferruaspis is chased by the extinct platypus, Obdurodon. Credit: Alex Boersma" class="wp-image-1962873"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A school of Ferruaspis is chased by the extinct platypus, Obdurodon. Credit: Alex Boersma</figcaption></figure>



Using a powerful microscope, scientists identified melanosomes, which are tiny structures responsible for producing color. 



While melanosomes have helped reconstruct the colors of ancient feathers, this is the first time they have been used to determine the color pattern of a long-extinct fish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-site-of-exceptional-fossil-preservation">Site of exceptional fossil preservation</h2>



Professor Kris Helgen, Director and Chief Scientist at the Australian Museum Research Institute, praised the ongoing research at McGraths Flat.



“Dr. Matt McCurry’s work at the McGraths Flat fossil site has been outstanding. This is one of many discoveries made at this site, which continues to play a significant role in advancing our understanding of Australia’s evolution during the Miocene era.”



McGraths Flat is one of the rare fossil sites in Australia classified as a "Lagerstätte" - a site with exceptionally well-preserved fossils. 



Located in the Central Tablelands of NSW, it offers a unique window into an ancient rainforest ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-do-fish-fossils-reveal-about-ancient-australia">What do fish fossils reveal about ancient Australia?</h2>



Dr. McCurry explained that fossils from this site, dating back 11 to 16 million years, show that the region was once a temperate, wet rainforest teeming with life. 



These discoveries help scientists reconstruct ancient landscapes and understand the biodiversity of prehistoric Australia.



The initial McGraths Flat expedition in 2017 received funding from a descendant of Robert Etheridge, a renowned English palaeontologist who played a crucial role in developing the Australian Museum’s collections. 



Etheridge launched a series of scientific expeditions that continue today, ensuring that Australia’s rich fossil heritage remains a key focus for researchers.



The discovery of Ferruaspis brocksi is another milestone in understanding how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coelacanth-ngamugawi-wirngarri-new-species-living-fossil-fish-survived-over-400-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient species</a> thrived and adapted in Australia’s evolving landscapes.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02724634.2024.2445684" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology</a>. 



Image Credit: Salthy Dingo



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Stomach contents preserved after 15 million years in fish fossil

Scientists have identified a new fossil species of freshwater fish,...

A new study has found that the H5N1 avian influenza virus is mutating to evade immune defenses in mammals following prior infection or vaccination.



The research, led by <a href="https://www.charlotte.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNC Charlotte</a>, emphasizes the growing threat of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/efforts-to-control-bird-flu-are-not-working-are-humans-next/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">H5N1</a> to both agriculture and public health.



“H5N1 can infect avian and mammalian livestock and jump to humans,” the authors wrote. highlighting that new strains appear increasingly resistant to existing antibodies. This evolution, they caution, suggests that older vaccine formulas may lose effectiveness.



“This study shows a trend of weakening binding affinity of existing antibodies against H5 isolates over time, indicating that the H5N1 virus is evolving immune escape from our therapeutic and immunological defenses,” noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-shifts-in-bird-flu-virus">Rapid shifts in bird flu virus</h2>



By running large-scale computational models of specific viral proteins binding with neutralizing antibodies, the research team discovered “an overall worsening in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-have-found-powerful-antibodies-that-neutralize-all-covid-variants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibody</a> affinity to more recent H5N1 isolates.”&nbsp;



“If one makes an H5N1 vaccine with a previous vaccine candidate virus, the vaccine will have less efficacy, based on our measurements of how much the virus has evolved in recent years,” explained lead author Colby T. Ford, a visiting scholar at UNC Charlotte’s <a href="https://cipher.charlotte.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Computational Intelligence to Predict Health and Environmental Risks</a> (CIPHER).



Conducted under the guidance of assistant professor Richard Allen White III, and CIPHER co-director Daniel Janies, the UNC Charlotte team joined forces with <a href="https://web.mit.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Massachusetts Institute of Technology</a> (MIT) researchers Rafael Jaimes III and Phillip J. Tomezsko to explore how the H5N1 virus is adapting so quickly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mounting-zoonotic-risk">Mounting zoonotic risk</h2>



Analyzing 1,804 antigen-antibody interactions, the researchers examined how the virus’s hemagglutinin subunit changed from 1996 to 2018.&nbsp;



By applying high-performance computational techniques, they tracked the virus’s “antigenic drift” - small cumulative mutations that hamper the effectiveness of immune defenses from earlier infections or vaccines.



The new measurements of how much the bird flu virus has evolved in recent years confirmed that H5N1 is becoming less recognizable to established antibodies.



“These results indicate that the virus has potential to move from epidemic to pandemic status,” wrote the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emergence-across-multiple-species">Emergence across multiple species</h2>



Though H5N1 has primarily circulated in birds, it has jumped to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/avian-influenza-h5n1-marine-mammals-spreading-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mammals</a> and, rarely, to humans.&nbsp;



In the past year, the virus was found in dairy cattle in at least 17 U.S. states, and the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a> (CDC) reported 70 human cases, including one fatality, in the United States since January 2022.&nbsp;



Worldwide, according to the <a href="https://www.who.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Health Organization</a>, H5N1 has been linked to 466 human deaths since 2003.



Between January 2022 and March 2025, the CDC also documented 12,510 H5N1 outbreaks among wild birds within the U.S., virus detections in 51 jurisdictions and 166,417,923 affected poultry.



Such widespread, cross-species infections strongly indicate that avian influenza can be considered a pandemic among animal populations, raising fears of a future human pandemic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds-flu-vaccination-and-public-health">Birds flu vaccination and public health</h2>



In discussing how to avert the looming threat, the authors argue that a new approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universal-influenza-vaccine-could-offer-lifetime-immunity/">vaccine</a> development may be needed.&nbsp;



These findings indicate that once the bird flu virus modifies itself significantly, older vaccines will have less efficacy, making it essential to develop and regularly update H5N1 vaccines reflecting the virus’s continuous genetic changes.



Furthermore, the study’s results highlight the power of high-performance computing in mapping viral evolution. By integrating AI-based protein folding with physics-based simulations, researchers can anticipate changes in viral structure and better inform policy decisions.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-flu-s-potential-for-pandemic-status">Bird flu’s potential for pandemic status</h2>



With H5N1 already widespread among wild birds and expanding its foothold in mammalian hosts, the virus’s cross-species jumps present a significant concern.&nbsp;



According to the experts, more robust monitoring, updated vaccination strategies, and ongoing computational analyses will be crucial in mitigating a potential outbreak.&nbsp;



As Janies concluded, computational modeling can help experts “tune our intuition to the right approaches” for vaccine design and intervention strategies before a fast-adapting virus gains an uncontrollable edge.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ebiom.2025.105632" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eBioMedicine</a>.&nbsp;



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Bird flu virus is rapidly evolving to evade immune defenses

A new study has found that the H5N1 avian influenza...

Coral reefs face threats from many sources, but the crown-of-thorns starfish is often singled out for its ability to chomp through living coral at staggering rates.



<a href="https://scispace.com/pdf/the-acanthaster-phenomenon-1fnwsb66cy.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientists</a> have puzzled over this starfish’s boom-and-bust population cycles, which can leave once-colorful coral communities in serious trouble.



Crown-of-thorns starfish numbers can spike quickly, damaging reefs from Australia to other parts of the Indo-Pacific. 



Previous explanations have focused on shifting ocean conditions or lack of predators, yet a recent <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2424560122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> highlights a surprising group that appears to gobble up young starfish before they mature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-crabs-help-control-starfish-numbers">Small crabs help control starfish numbers</h2>



“Using our newly developed eDNA techniques to detect COTS, we found COTS DNA in the guts of seven species of decapod caught across more than 1,000 km of the Great Barrier Reef. Plus we found fewer crabs in areas prone to COTS outbreaks,” said study senior author Dr. Sven Uthicke from the <a href="https://www.aims.gov.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian Institute of Marine Science</a>. 



Some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breaks-in-ancient-coral-growth-reveal-earths-climate-past/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reefs</a> seem to carry pockets of these small <a href="https://www.britannica.com/animal/decapod" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decapod creatures</a>, which are ten-legged crustaceans that often lurk in cracks and under rubble. 



The researchers found that their absence in certain spots matched places where starfish outbreaks flared up.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crabs-eat-young-starfish">Crabs eat young starfish </h2>



“Consuming <a href="https://www.gbrbiology.com/2022/05/26/juvenile-crown-of-thorns-starfish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">juvenile COTS</a> is a highly effective way to reduce COTS populations because, not only are they removed before they can start feeding on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-bleaching-has-reached-catastrophic-levels-on-the-great-barrier-reef/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral</a>, but they can be removed in large numbers because they are so small,” said Dr. Uthicke. 



Small starfish tend to spend time hiding in rubble and among broken coral fragments. The researchers discovered that crusty guardians live in those same hiding spots, and their diets sometimes include juvenile starfish.



“It’s a numbers game. Some of the crabs can eat 20 juveniles a day, whereas fish or triton may eat one adult every few days or per week,” said Dr. Uthicke. 



Differences in how often these crabs show up across the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-diversity-has-changed-dramatically-on-the-great-barrier-reef/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reef</a> may explain why some sections avoid major starfish invasions.



By using <a href="https://iucn.org/resources/issues-brief/environmental-dna" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eDNA</a> (environmental DNA) methods, scientists found proof of starfish consumption without needing direct observation. Targeting scraps of genetic material helps capture hidden feeding patterns that traditional surveys might overlook.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wider-reef-implications">Wider reef implications</h2>



Scientists suspect that fewer small cryptic predators could give young starfish a better chance of surviving to adulthood. Removing juveniles early on may hold the key to keeping starfish populations in check.



A single decapod crab might appear harmless, yet large groups can collectively remove countless baby starfish. This kind of steady predation could halt population spikes before they cause coral damage.



Hidden crabs bring renewed attention to natural pest control on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restored-coral-reefs-can-bounce-back-in-just-four-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reefs</a>. Managers usually track adult starfish as they munch their way across corals, but juveniles slip below the radar and can later emerge en masse.



Marine experts believe many reef inhabitants remain poorly understood. The study suggests these overlooked animals could influence overall coral health by feeding on starfish in ways that bigger predators might not.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-crab-populations">Protecting crab populations </h2>



Decapod crabs rely on healthy, structurally complex habitats. When reefs degrade, key crab hideouts disappear, leading to fewer opportunities for them to find and eat juvenile starfish.



Scientists note that preserving coral rubble habitat might help maintain crab populations. Extra protective measures could make a difference, especially in places that have experienced intense fishing or widespread coral decline.



Future work may look at what drives crab populations up or down and whether certain types of rubble or coral attract more crabs. Researchers might also see if artificial reefs provide enough shelter for these decapods to flourish.



Insights like these can improve management. Rather than focusing solely on adult starfish, officials could encourage conditions where small crustaceans thrive and reduce problems before they start.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-sign-of-hidden-connections">A sign of hidden connections</h2>



Crustaceans are not the only puzzling factor in starfish control, yet their impact sparks curiosity about other nooks and crannies of reef life. Everything from tiny worms to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-barrier-reef-is-on-the-brink-of-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reef</a> bacteria may hold clues.



Each new finding reminds us that reefs are webs of interactions with many unsung heroes. Understanding these links may be essential for long-term reef survival.



Researchers suggest that bolstering small predator populations could be a smart tactic in starfish management. Keeping these animal communities strong may help reefs bounce back faster when facing constant stress.



Local conservation groups already invest in large-scale starfish culls, but it may be easier to back up that work by maintaining conditions for crabs and other protective critters. The goal is to strike a balance that curbs harmful sea star numbers without disrupting other species.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2424560122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Tiny crabs protect reefs by eating baby crown-of-thorns starfish

Coral reefs face threats from many sources, but the crown-of-thorns...

Biologging sensors attached to animals help researchers collect valuable data about marine environments. This data helps monitor human activities, such as fishing, pollution, and noise disturbances from boats and construction, providing insights into their impact on marine life.



A recent study from Kobe University highlights the importance of integrating data from different sources to create an “Internet of Animals” with open-access standards.



Human activities affect marine life in multiple ways. Fishing, industrial waste, and underwater construction alter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-day-2025-a-global-call-to-protect-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitats</a> and disrupt ecosystems. 



“There is a wealth of oceanographic data from research vessels, drifting buoys and satellites," said Professor IWATA Takashi, an animal ecologist at <a href="https://www.kobe-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe University</a>.



"But due to technological and economic constraints, there are many observation gaps and some areas are inaccessible to humans, such as under sea ice or during harsh weather.” 



Understanding how these changes impact individual animals is difficult, making it challenging to design effective conservation strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biologging-window-into-animal-experiences">Biologging: Window into animal experiences</h2>



Attaching small sensors, cameras, or tracking devices to wild animals is known as biologging. Scientists originally used biologging to study animal behavior and movement patterns. Now, it also helps analyze environmental changes affecting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-animal-will-replace-humans-as-earths-dominant-species-this-scientist-has-an-idea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine life</a>.



“We try to minimize the impact this has on the animals by keeping the overall weight of the devices to less than 3% of the animal’s body weight, or even less than 1% for larger animals, and many researchers keep developing smaller and smaller devices," explained Iwata.



This method allows researchers to gather data without disturbing natural behaviors.



Biologging follows a Lagrangian observational method, meaning it moves with the animals, offering insights that fixed observation platforms like satellites or buoys cannot provide. It records a variety of environmental parameters, including temperature, salinity, and oxygen levels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancements-in-biologging-research">Advancements in biologging research</h2>



The researchers reviewed the latest advancements in biologging. Their analysis showed that biologging has improved typhoon forecasts, revealed differences in how turtle species react to plastic waste, exposed illegal fishing, and influenced the design of bird-friendly offshore wind farms.



“This review showed that while biologging alone is insufficient, it can fill in the gaps in existing knowledge," said Iwata.



"It provides a new type of data that differs from the wide-area environmental information obtained from earth observation satellites and other sources to tackle a broad range of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-secretly-reshape-landscapes-in-powerful-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental issues</a>."



Combining biologging with other research methods offers a more complete understanding of marine ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tackling-ocean-warming-and-pollution">Tackling ocean warming and pollution</h2>



Biologging offers a crucial tool for tracking ocean warming. By attaching GPS loggers to seabirds and marine mammals, scientists can measure ocean currents, wind patterns, and temperature changes over time. These observations have helped improve climate models and typhoon <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-change-their-daily-schedules-when-tourists-are-watching/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tracking</a>.



Plastic pollution remains a major concern, especially its impact on marine life. Cameras attached to sea turtles have captured floating plastic bags, providing direct evidence of pollution in marine habitats. 



Loggerhead turtles swim past plastic, while green turtles sometimes mistake it for food. Such species-specific behaviors help shape targeted conservation strategies.



Chemical pollution also threatens marine ecosystems. Persistent organic pollutants accumulate in seabirds and marine mammals, serving as bio-indicators of contamination. Tracking these animals allows scientists to monitor pollution levels across different ocean regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-fishery-management">Challenges in fishery management</h2>



Overfishing and bycatch pose significant threats to marine biodiversity. Biologging helps identify migration routes and breeding grounds for fish species like tuna and cod. This information supports more sustainable fishing policies.



Additionally, biologging has revealed that some marine animals, such as seals and whales, actively seek out fishing vessels to feed on discarded fish. This behavior increases the risk of entanglement and vessel collisions. 



Understanding these interactions can help develop better deterrent strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-and-marine-protected-areas">Conservation and marine protected areas</h2>



Noise pollution from shipping and offshore wind farms disrupts marine animals, particularly cetaceans that rely on echolocation. 



Biologging has demonstrated that naval sonar and shipping noise affect whale behavior, influencing feeding and migration patterns. Some studies have proposed raising turbine heights to minimize risks for seabirds.



Biologging also plays a key role in marine protected area (MPA) management. Data collected from tagged predators such as sharks and seals help determine whether existing MPAs effectively cover important habitats. 



Studies in the Ross Sea and British Indian Ocean Territory have confirmed that MPAs contribute to the conservation of top marine predators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-global-internet-of-animals">A global "Internet of Animals"</h2>



The full potential of biologging depends on worldwide cooperation. 



“The full potential of biologging can only be realized through increased global collaboration and data sharing, enabling the integration of data across <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-size-and-cancer-risk-surprising-new-details-have-emerged/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a>, regions, and environmental contexts,” noted Iwata.



The researchers propose creating an “Internet of Animals,” where experts worldwide share biologging data to study marine life on a larger scale.



However, global data access and standardization remain major challenges. The Japanese research team calls for greater collaboration among scientists and data-sharing platforms to overcome these barriers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-biologging-s-reach">Expanding biologging’s reach</h2>



Iwata hopes this research will encourage more scientists to explore biologging. 



“If we can promote the sharing of biologging data through this paper, I hope to not only recruit more researchers to this field but also to so open up new angles that we haven’t yet envisioned,” he said.



“Researchers are not experts in social implementation, but in recent years, I have seen various issues being solved by sharing data in a data-driven society. It was an enjoyable task to think of ways to return the power of data to society.”



This study was conducted in collaboration with a researcher from <a href="https://www.waseda.jp/top/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Waseda University</a>. By promoting biologging and data-sharing, researchers hope to build a stronger foundation for marine conservation efforts.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772735125000265?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Water Biology and Security</a>.



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Biologging: Animals are recording human impact on the ocean

Biologging sensors attached to animals help researchers collect valuable data...

Australia’s landscapes are home to one of nature’s most fascinating creatures - the kangaroo. Unique among large animals, kangaroos depend on hopping as their main form of locomotion.



This method of locomotion, known as saltation, allows them to cover vast distances with efficiency and speed. But how did <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prehistoric-kangaroos-changed-their-diets-to-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kangaroos</a> develop this distinctive way of moving?



Understanding their evolutionary history requires looking at their ancestors, particularly the musky rat-kangaroo, the only macropodoid that does not hop.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kangaroo-relatives-that-don-t-hop">Kangaroo relatives that don't hop</h2>



Amy Tschirn is a PhD student and researcher in the <a href="https://www.flinders.edu.au/college-science-engineering" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">College of Science and Engineering</a> at Flinders University, and co-lead author of the study.



"The musky rat-kangaroo, as the most primitive living macropodoid (a group that includes kangaroos, wallabies, potoroos and bettongs), can offer insight into evolution within the group, including the origin of bipedal hopping locomotion,” said Tschim.



“As the only living macropodoid that doesn’t hop, the musky rat-kangaroo provides a crucial insight into how and when the iconic hopping form of locomotion evolved in Australia.”



Studying the musky rat-kangaroo helps scientists understand how early macropodoids moved before developing bipedal hopping. 



This tiny marsupial, found in the dense rainforests of Queensland, may hold the key to unlocking the evolutionary steps that led to modern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/protemnodon-kangaroo-fossils-may-explain-their-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kangaroos</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-musky-rat-kangaroos-in-the-wild">Musky rat-kangaroos in the wild</h2>



To study the movement of musky rat-kangaroos, researchers observed them in their natural habitat in the Atherton Tableland, a region in far-northern Queensland. 



By filming adult muskies in the wild, they documented how these animals move and whether any form of hopping appeared in their locomotion. The findings revealed something remarkable.



Unlike any other marsupial that moves on all fours, musky rat-<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-kangaroos-of-the-past-didnt-hop-they-walked-on-all-fours/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kangaroos</a> use a distinct style of movement called a "bound" or "half-bound" gait. This means their hindfeet move together in synchrony rather than alternating as in most quadrupedal animals. 



This movement pattern is unusual among marsupials and could provide crucial insight into how macropodoids transitioned toward hopping.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-quadrupedal-movement">Role of quadrupedal movement</h2>



Observations also confirmed that musky rat-kangaroos never hop, even when moving at their fastest speeds. This means that hopping likely developed later in macropodoid evolution.



“There remains no evidence of hopping in this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-wallace-line-a-natural-border-that-no-species-crosses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a>. Even when travelling at high speeds, muskies always use quadrupedal gaits, never rearing up on just their back legs,” said Harvard’s Dr. Peter Bishop, co-lead author of the research paper.



“These results support the hypothesis that a shift to an asymmetric-gait-dominant locomotor repertoire was a functional prerequisite in the evolution of bipedal hopping in macropodoids.”



Since musky rat-kangaroos lack the ability to hop, scientists believe that the transition toward bipedal movement must have started with an intermediary stage. The bounding gait of these small marsupials may represent a stepping stone in this evolutionary process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bounding-led-to-hopping-in-kangaroos">Bounding led to hopping in kangaroos</h2>



The musky rat-kangaroo's movement patterns align with previous studies on quadrupedal Australian marsupials. 



Many use symmetric gaits at lower speeds and shift to asymmetric gaits at higher speeds. Unlike most, however, the musky rat-kangaroo exclusively uses asymmetric gaits, even at slow speeds.



Research suggests that early macropodoids likely adopted a bounding gait before transitioning to bipedal hopping. Small potoroids, close relatives of kangaroos, demonstrate this transition by using both quadrupedal bounding and bipedal hopping at different speeds. 



This pattern hints that bounding could have been the crucial precursor to the hopping behavior seen in modern kangaroos.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-body-structure-and-the-kangaroo-hop">Body structure and the kangaroo hop</h2>



The musky rat-kangaroo also retains several physical traits that distinguish it from true hopping macropodoids. Its forelimbs and hindlimbs are proportionally closer in size compared to kangaroos, which have much longer hindlimbs adapted for hopping. 



The musky rat-kangaroo also has a mobile first toe, something absent in larger macropodoids. These features suggest that its anatomy is better suited for quadrupedal movement, making it unlikely to develop hopping.



Studies on limb proportions across marsupials and rodents indicate that animals capable of bipedal locomotion generally have shorter forelimbs relative to their hindlimbs. 



The musky rat-kangaroo falls somewhere in between, suggesting it represents an early stage in macropodoid evolution before the full transition to bipedal hopping.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-bounding-to-hopping">From bounding to hopping</h2>



The transition from quadrupedal movement to bipedal hopping remains one of the most intriguing mysteries of kangaroo evolution. By studying the musky rat-kangaroo’s anatomy and locomotion, researchers can piece together the story of how hopping emerged.



“These results signal a potential pathway to how bipedal hopping evolved in kangaroos. Perhaps it started with an ancestor that moved about on all fours like other marsupials, then an animal that bounded like the muskies, and finally evolved into the iconic hopping kangaroos we see in Australia today.”



This suggests that early macropodoids may have first adopted bounding gaits, allowing them to generate forward momentum using their powerful hind legs. 



Over time, as these animals became more specialized, they may have started relying solely on their back legs, leading to the development of true hopping.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-kangaroo-evolution-studies">Future of kangaroo evolution studies</h2>



The research, published in Australian Mammalogy, provides an important foundation for future studies on kangaroo evolution. 



While the mystery of hopping is still being unraveled, fossil discoveries from early macropodoids could provide more clues about how and when kangaroos made the final leap into bipedal hopping.



Scientists also hope to answer another key question: why did hopping kangaroos grow so much larger than rodents, which also use saltation? Understanding this could reveal more about the evolutionary pressures that shaped Australia’s unique wildlife.



By continuing to study living species like the musky rat-kangaroo and examining fossils from early kangaroo ancestors, researchers move closer to understanding one of the most distinctive adaptations in the animal kingdom.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.publish.csiro.au/AM/AM24050" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian Mammalogy</a>.



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How did the kangaroo learn to hop? Insights from its smallest relative

Australia’s landscapes are home to one of nature’s most fascinating...

World Frog Day is more than just a date on the calendar - it’s a global wake-up call. For 265 million years, frogs have hopped through Earth’s ever-changing landscapes. 



They outlived dinosaurs, weathered ice ages, and adapted to shifting climates. Yet today, despite their incredible resilience, frogs stand on the brink of disaster.



These small, unassuming creatures do far more than fill the air with their evening croaks. They control insect populations, provide food for countless predators, and serve as nature’s bioindicators because they are sensitive to environmental changes long before these become crises. 



When <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/missing-frog-species-alsodes-vittatus-resurfaces-after-130-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frogs</a> start disappearing from an ecosystem, it’s a sign that something is deeply wrong.



Pollution, deforestation, climate change, and the deadly chytrid fungus are driving entire species to extinction at an alarming rate. 



If frog populations continue to decline, the consequences will be catastrophic. Ecosystems will become unbalanced, food chains may collapse, and Earth will lose one of its most ancient inhabitants.



That’s why&nbsp;World Frog Day, observed every&nbsp;March 20&nbsp;since&nbsp;2014, is important. It shines a spotlight on these amphibians, raises awareness about their plight and urges action before time runs out.



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



Frogs are key players in natural ecosystems. As predators, they feast on mosquitoes, flies, and agricultural pests, helping control populations that could otherwise spiral out of balance.



Without them, farmers would struggle with increased infestations, and diseases spread by insects could become even harder to manage.



On the flip side, frogs themselves are prey for countless creatures; birds, fish, reptiles, and even some mammals rely on them as a food source. If frogs disappear, so do many of the animals that depend on them, which would trigger a domino effect throughout the ecosystem.



Then there’s their role as bioindicators. Healthy frog populations signal healthy environments. But declining frog populations indicate bigger issues - polluted waters, rising temperatures, or habitat destruction, for example. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-frogs-are-facing-many-threats">Frogs are facing many threats </h2>



Despite their adaptability, frogs face an uphill battle for survival, with habitat destruction being the primary threat.



Wetlands are commonly drained for urban expansion and forests are cut down to make way for agriculture. Rivers and lakes are polluted with industrial waste and pesticides. Every time humans encroach on these habitats, frog populations shrink a little more.



Pollution is another major issue. Since <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/walking-on-water-cricket-frogs-redefine-aquatic-locomotion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frogs</a> absorb water directly through their porous skin, they have no defense against toxins in their environment. Pesticides used in farming leach into nearby ponds and streams, poisoning frogs from the outside in.



Then there’s the chytrid fungus, a disease that has devastated amphibian populations worldwide. It attacks their skin, and prevents them from absorbing water and essential nutrients. Entire species have been wiped out in mere decades by this devastating fungus. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-is-making-things-worse">Climate change is making things worse</h2>



As if habitat loss and pollution weren’t enough, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frog-saunas-hot-solution-to-fighting-global-amphibian-extinction-apocalypse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frogs</a> are also battling the effects of climate change. 



Rising temperatures have thrown off their breeding cycles, causing unpredictable shifts in their life stages. Some species, accustomed to stable seasonal patterns, now struggle to find mates or lay eggs at the right time.



Extreme weather events have also taken a toll. In some areas, prolonged droughts have dried up breeding ponds before tadpoles have had a chance to develop. In others, flooding has swept away entire populations. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fight-to-save-the-frogs">The fight to save the frogs</h2>



Despite the grim outlook, conservationists aren’t giving up. Around the world, dedicated researchers and volunteers are working to preserve frog habitats, restore wetlands, and develop captive breeding programs for endangered species. 



In some cases, frogs have been reintroduced into the wild after their populations were nearly wiped out - a small but hopeful sign that efforts can make a difference.



One of the most effective strategies has been the creation of protected areas where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frogs-exposed-to-radiation-show-no-signs-of-accelerated-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amphibians</a> can thrive without human interference. These conservation zones shield frogs from pollution, deforestation, and urban expansion, giving them a fighting chance at survival. 



Scientists are also working to combat the chytrid fungus, testing anti-fungal treatments that could slow or stop the spread of infection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-take-action-on-world-frog-day">Take action on World Frog Day</h2>



World Frog Day 2025 presents us with a chance to take action. Across the globe, events will highlight the importance of frog conservation, from educational programs at zoos, to hands-on habitat restoration projects.



The Little Rock Zoo in Arkansas, for example, is set to host special exhibits and talks about amphibian protection. Schools and nature organizations will also join in, organizing workshops and field trips to explore local frog populations.



But you don’t need to attend an event to make a difference. Learning about the different species of frogs in your region is a good start. Avoiding pesticides and herbicides in your garden helps protect their habitats. Creating a frog-friendly space with native plants, small ponds, or log shelters can provide much-needed refuge.



If you want to do more, consider supporting conservation organizations. Donations help fund research, breeding programs, and habitat restoration efforts. Volunteering for local environmental groups can also put you on the frontlines of conservation work.



You can even virtually adopt a tree frog through the <a href="https://gifts.worldwildlife.org/gift-center/gifts/species-adoptions/red-eyed-tree-frog?srsltid=AfmBOorRwjDH5ydXRC_2hQV_O2f5MO1PjHWAutpoeSOhQp7kn7mTcs6P" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Wildlife Fund</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-world-without-frogs">A world without frogs?</h2>



The loss of frogs isn’t just an ecological disaster - it’s a warning. Their decline signals deeper problems in our environment, problems that will eventually affect humans too. 



If frogs disappear, it means our water is more polluted, our ecosystems are out of balance, and the natural world is in crisis.



World Frog Day reminds us that their survival is tied to our own. By protecting them, we protect ourselves and the planet we share. Whether it’s through education, activism, or simple everyday choices, everyone can contribute to this effort. 



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World Frog Day 2025: Protecting nature’s tiny guardians

World Frog Day is more than just a date on...

Sunlight shapes life on Earth, driving photosynthesis, influencing weather patterns, and determining the growth of plants. While many assume that more sunlight directly results in better plant growth, the reality is far more complex. 



Plants respond not only to the amount of sunlight they receive but also to its quality, intensity, and distribution. Cloud cover, atmospheric conditions, and seasonal changes all play a role in shaping how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-rely-on-quantum-mechanics-to-transfer-energy-from-sunlight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> interact with light.



Understanding these interactions is critical for agriculture, especially in an era where climate change is altering weather patterns. 



Researchers at <a href="https://www.kyushu-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kyushu University</a> have taken a significant step toward unraveling the mysteries of sunlight behavior. Their study introduces a new numerical model that explains how sunlight behaves under different weather conditions. 



Published in the journal Ecological Informatics, the research could help farmers make more informed decisions about crop management and greenhouse farming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sunlight-and-plant-growth">Sunlight and plant growth</h2>



Plants rely on sunlight for photosynthesis, but more sunlight does not always mean better growth. Cloudy weather can sometimes be beneficial. 



On sunny days, light reaches plants from a single direction, leaving lower leaves in shade. In contrast, clouds scatter sunlight more evenly, allowing lower parts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-climates-force-plants-to-compete-with-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> to receive light. This balance influences plant development in ways that are not immediately obvious.



Study first author Amila Siriwardana is a PhD student at Kyushu University’s Faculty of Agriculture.



“Plants also respond to different wavelengths of sunlight. If you have ever seen a rainbow, you know that sunlight is made up of many wavelengths. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunlight-may-be-the-secret-weapon-for-direct-co2-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plants</a> sense these different wavelengths of light and alter their growth responses,” explained Siriwardana.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-adapt-to-different-sunlight-types">Plants adapt to different sunlight types</h2>



Plants detect the ratio of light wavelengths to gauge their environment. This ratio depends on cloud cover, atmospheric conditions, and the sun’s altitude. 



However, little research had categorized this information in terms of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-future-climate-conditions-will-transform-plant-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant physiology</a> and ecology. To bridge this gap, the research team collected yearlong sunlight data to examine daily variations in light quality.



“While many projects look at only the ‘energy’ produced by the sun, our methods set out to categorize both the ‘energy’ and ‘quality’ of light," said Professor Atsushi Kume, who led the team.



"By sorting sunlight into five categories, from clear skies to overcast, we can better understand how plants can adjust and respond to different light conditions." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collecting-and-categorizing-sunlight-data">Collecting and categorizing sunlight data</h2>



To measure sunlight under different weather conditions, the researchers used a spectroradiometer. This device captures the entire spectrum of sunlight.



The spectroradiometer was installed on top of Kyushu University’s Faculty of Agriculture building on Ito campus. The device recorded data from sunrise to sunset throughout 2021.



Using this information, the team built a machine learning model to analyze and predict sunlight variations. The model recognized patterns in weather conditions, including light intensity, scattering, air clarity, and humidity. 



Based on these factors, it classified sunlight into five groups. A clear sunny day belonged to group one, while overcast conditions fell into group five.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sunlight-changes-across-weather-patterns">Sunlight changes across weather patterns</h2>



The team observed clear patterns in how sunlight behaves and affects plants.



On bright, cloudless days, more light energy reaches the ground. However, as cloud cover increases, light intensity decreases while ultraviolet levels rise. 



Additionally, sunlight shifts in color from red tones on sunny days to blue hues under cloudy skies. Once trained, the model could predict sunlight patterns with high accuracy.



“Our method achieved 94% accuracy in predicting sunlight category without the need for expensive advanced equipment,” said Siriwardana.



“Our model is especially relevant for regions experiencing four distinct seasons similar to Japan's.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-applications-in-agriculture">Applications in agriculture</h2>



The research team sees potential applications for modern farming. Their model can help farmers adjust greenhouse conditions and optimize planting schedules throughout the year.



“We hope our model can be used to address the challenges in modern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-may-stop-absorbing-carbon-if-temperatures-continue-to-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agriculture</a>. Farmers can use this information to improve greenhouse conditions and planting schedules throughout the year,” explained Kume.



”For instance, during Japan's cloudy rainy season in June, farmers might adjust their greenhouse operations or crop spacing to maximize available light. Even in the fall and winter, when sunlight patterns change, farmers can adapt their strategies based on our model.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-the-research-scope">Expanding the research scope</h2>



Looking ahead, the team plans to extend their research to different climates, including tropical and high-altitude environments.



This would allow them to refine the model and explore broader environmental impacts of sunlight variations.



By deepening the understanding of how sunlight interacts with plants, the researchers aim to provide more tools for sustainable agriculture and climate adaptation.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1574954124004825?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecological Informatics</a>.



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How changing skies alter plant growth patterns

Sunlight shapes life on Earth, driving photosynthesis, influencing weather patterns,...

Increasing levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide are raising concerns about extreme weather and rising temperatures. They are also prompting scientists to examine how crops are responding to these changes, particularly in terms of yield and nutritional quality.



Global research on <a href="https://ripe.illinois.edu/blog/difference-between-c3-and-c4-plants" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">C3 plants</a>, which include wheat, rice, and many vegetables, suggests that extra carbon dioxide can raise <a href="https://www.saps.org.uk/teaching-resources/resources/157/measuring-the-rate-of-photosynthesis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis rates</a> in certain species. 



That might sound like good news, but the same studies flag worrisome drops in proteins, vitamins, and minerals - sparking concerns about <a href="https://www.childrens.com/specialties-services/conditions/protein-calorie-malnutrition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protein-calorie malnutrition</a> and <a href="https://www.childrens.com/specialties-services/conditions/protein-calorie-malnutrition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">micronutrient deficiency</a> in regions that already struggle with poor soil.



Felix D. Dakora from <a href="https://www.tut.ac.za/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tshwane University of Technology</a> and fellow researchers have studied these trends to find ways to guard future harvests against the pitfalls of high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-is-accelerating-beyond-control-as-co2-levels-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide exposure</a>.



The team examined both the reasons behind these nutrient drops and what can be done to lessen the damage. The study also highlights the ripple effects that might harm food security for billions of people across the planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dual-impact-of-co2">The dual impact of CO2</h2>



Elevated carbon dioxide often <a href="https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/10.1146/annurev-ecolsys-102209-144647" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">boosts</a> plant growth in C3 plants by improving water-use efficiency through lower stomatal conductance and <a href="https://cid-inc.com/blog/transpiration-in-plants-its-importance-and-applications/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transpiration</a>.



That can be a plus in regions where drought looms. Yet at the same time, certain crops end up with reduced nitrogen content, which dents the protein makeup. The research team reported a 7.4% decrease in wheat grain protein under <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-co2-emissions-rise-as-nations-tackle-fossil-fuel-dependence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">high carbon dioxide</a>.



Lower protein weakens the nutritional value of these grains. It may also bring about a rise in starchy components, which could lead to higher rates of diabetes in areas that already rely on carbohydrate-heavy diets. 



Some experts believe the shift in amino acids, vitamins, and mineral levels might be an even bigger worry down the road.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-dioxide-lowers-crop-nutrition">Carbon dioxide lowers crop nutrition </h2>



<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/nature13179" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientists</a> find that soil minerals, like zinc and iron, drop in grains raised in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-co2-emissions-rise-as-nations-tackle-fossil-fuel-dependence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon-dioxide-rich fields</a>. 



In maize, certain studies show lower levels of iron and copper that can hinder basic human dietary needs. This is particularly alarming in places where these nutrients are already scarce.



Experts note that reduced <a href="https://www.who.int/tools/elena/bbc/biofortification" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biofortification</a> traits in many crop varieties contribute to the problem. Slowed mineral uptake and altered enzyme activities also play a part. Under high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-carbon-dioxide-travels-in-the-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a> conditions, some plants downregulate processes that normally absorb and distribute minerals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategies-for-a-healthier-harvest">Strategies for a healthier harvest</h2>



Researchers recommend selecting crop genotypes that hold onto vital elements even when gas levels climb. Some varieties appear to lose fewer nutrients, and programs aimed at improving mineral uptake could protect farmers from yield losses. 



Shifting to more legume-based meals is another option. Beans and peas rely on <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/nitrogen-fixation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">N2 fixation</a>, which generally holds better under high carbon dioxide compared to mineral nitrogen sources in fertilizers.



Tree planting can lock extra <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-has-regulated-earths-climate-for-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a> into forests and farmland. Trees enhance soil structure and create a friendlier habitat for microbes involved in natural fertilization.



Some efforts, including large-scale planting of N2-fixing shrubs, may cut back on fertilizer use and slow the buildup of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-carbon-dioxide-travels-in-the-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gases</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crops-that-can-withstand-carbon-dioxide">Crops that can withstand carbon dioxide </h2>



Scientists are turning to <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9570104/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence</a> (AI) and high-tech breeding to pinpoint genetic traits that help crops cope with carbon dioxide surges. 



Tools that assess growth, water usage, and nutrient density help experts spot patterns hidden to the naked eye. By mixing big data with genomics, plant breeders can zero in on seeds that are more resilient, saving both time and resources.



AI also allows researchers to simulate future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-has-regulated-earths-climate-for-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conditions</a> more accurately. This leads to better predictions for how certain crop lines will adapt. 



Optimizing for stronger nutrient uptake may keep harvests robust and nutritious, ensuring fewer communities suffer malnutrition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diverse-crops-reduce-the-impacts">Diverse crops reduce the impacts</h2>



Planting diverse species that can thrive under changing conditions helps build a buffer for unpredictable swings in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-emissions-reduction-20-percent-possible-only-2-percent-economic-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a>. 



Combining species with strong <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/what-carbon-sequestration" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon uptake</a> could also reduce the negative side effects of high carbon dioxide. Drawing on local biodiversity and building varied cropping systems often stabilizes production and dietary quality.



Communities near desert regions, where farmland is fragile, might see benefits from more shrubs and trees suited to local conditions. These species could capture extra carbon while strengthening the soil for staple crops. 



Experts say small-scale experiments are already successful in certain parts of Africa, building new paths toward long-term food security.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-tomorrow-s-food-supply">Protecting tomorrow’s food supply</h2>



Many scientists emphasize the need to explore how carbon dioxide interacts with other factors like temperature and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-declared-ocean-pollutant-international-court-ruling/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme weather events</a>. 



Finding ways to keep proteins, amino acids, and essential minerals from eroding will be key to meeting global nutrition standards.



Switching to diets richer in legumes and vegetables may trim <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-20406-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas emissions</a> from livestock. This can also bring more variety to local plates, adding proteins and minerals that cereals under carbon stress might lack.



Meanwhile, regional approaches to reforestation and soil restoration can draw down some portion of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-emissions-reduction-20-percent-possible-only-2-percent-economic-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric carbon</a>.



Policy shifts will matter, too. If governments support research into better seed varieties and push for climate-smart irrigation methods, farmers will be more prepared. Collaboration between scientists, local communities, and industry groups could speed up large-scale solutions.



People who depend on common grains may have the most to lose from inaction. By staying alert to nutrient drops now, it may be possible to avoid bigger crises later. 



The study is published in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095809924007355" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Engineering</a>.



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Rising carbon dioxide makes crops grow bigger but less nutritious

Increasing levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide are raising concerns about...

The spotted lanternfly has become a growing concern across the United States. Since its first detection in 2014, this invasive pest has spread across at least 18 states, wreaking havoc on vineyards, orchards, and nursery industries. 



The damage caused by lanternflies threatens agricultural businesses and the environment, pushing scientists to find effective management strategies.



Traditionally, chemical insecticides have been the primary tool for controlling these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flies-like-to-play-and-have-fun-like-other-animals-according-to-a-fascinating-new-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pests</a>. However, reliance on chemical solutions comes with risks, including pesticide resistance and unintended harm to beneficial species. 



Researchers at <a href="https://www.psu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a> have been exploring alternative solutions, looking toward nature’s own pest controllers for answers. 



Their study highlights the role of native insect predators in reducing spotted lanternfly populations. The findings suggest that these natural enemies could provide a sustainable and long-term approach to managing the infestation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-predators-of-spotted-lanternflies">Natural predators of spotted lanternflies</h2>



Scientists at Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences conducted extensive research to determine which natural predators could help control spotted lanternflies. 



They focused on insects already present in the United States, hoping to identify species that could effectively hunt and reduce lanternfly numbers without the need for chemical intervention.



The team examined the feeding behavior of various predators, including spined soldier bugs, Carolina mantises, and Chinese mantises.



These insects, already known for preying on agricultural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-some-birds-lose-the-ability-to-fly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pests</a>, showed promise in targeting spotted lanternflies. The research suggests that conserving these beneficial predators could serve as a natural and environmentally friendly method for reducing lanternfly populations.



“Our study shows that several native and naturalized predators can consume spotted lanternflies effectively,” said lead researcher and doctoral candidate Anne Johnson, who conducted the study with Kelli Hoover, professor of entomology. 



“By leveraging natural enemies already in the environment, we hope to develop a sustainable, low-impact approach to managing this invasive species that will complement other control methods.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-with-chemical-control-methods">Challenges with chemical control methods</h2>



Current efforts to control spotted lanternflies primarily rely on insecticides. While effective in the short term, these chemicals pose significant risks. 



Over time, pests can develop resistance, making chemical treatments less effective. Additionally, insecticides can harm non-target species, including beneficial insects essential for maintaining ecological balance.



Johnson emphasized that biological control, which utilizes natural predators to regulate pest populations, offers a more sustainable alternative. 



By promoting predator populations, researchers hope to reduce dependence on chemical interventions and create a longer-lasting solution to the lanternfly problem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-defenses-of-the-spotted-lanternfly">Natural defenses of the spotted lanternfly</h2>



In its native habitat in southeastern Asia, the spotted lanternfly has natural predators, including parasitic wasps that help regulate its numbers. 



However, introducing foreign species into a new environment requires extensive environmental impact studies and regulatory approvals, which can take years to complete. The <a href="https://www.usda.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Department of Agriculture</a> and university researchers are currently conducting these studies to assess potential risks and benefits.



One of the challenges researchers faced was understanding whether U.S. predators could effectively hunt lanternflies. Some invasive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragonflies-develop-waxy-coating-to-withstand-warmer-climates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> develop natural defenses that make them unappealing or even toxic to potential predators.



“The spotted lanternfly’s ability to sequester toxins from its preferred host, the tree of heaven, raises concerns about its vulnerability to predators,” Johnson said. 



“We hypothesized that the spotted lanternfly might harness the tree’s bitter-tasting chemical compounds as a defense mechanism that could protect them against predation.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predator-efficiency-in-controlled-settings">Predator efficiency in controlled settings</h2>



To evaluate the effectiveness of different predators, Johnson and Hoover tested ten generalist species, including spined soldier bugs, praying mantises, wheel bugs, lady beetles, and lacewings. Each predator was placed in an enclosure with either 25 spotted lanternfly nymphs or 10 adults for a week.



The results showed that spined soldier bugs and two praying mantis species were the most successful at reducing lanternfly populations. Regardless of the lanternflies’ life stage, these predators actively hunted and consumed them.



Eight-spined soldier bugs proved particularly efficient. They hunt in groups, allowing them to attack and consume prey more effectively. In controlled experiments, these bugs eliminated all lanternflies in their enclosures within three to four days. 



Additionally, researchers found that the predators consumed spotted lanternflies regardless of whether they had fed on tree of heaven or alternative host plants.



“These findings are fascinating because they suggest that natural predators could be incorporated into integrated pest management strategies,” Johnson said. “By conserving and encouraging populations of these beneficial insects, we may be able to reduce the use of chemical controls.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observations-of-lanternfly-predators">Observations of lanternfly predators </h2>



Before conducting their controlled experiments, researchers gathered data from community science efforts. 



From 2020 to 2022, Johnson invited the public to report sightings of birds and insects preying on spotted lanternflies. Through social media platforms like Facebook, nearly 2,000 reports were collected. These observations provided scientists with valuable clues about which predators to study in greater detail.



This collaboration between researchers and the public helped confirm that native insects could be effective in spotted lanternfly control. While anecdotal reports do not replace laboratory testing, they offer useful insights that can guide future research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-a-standalone-solution">Not a standalone solution</h2>



While the study’s findings are promising, Johnson and Hoover stress that predator-based control methods should not be seen as a standalone solution. 



The next phase of research will involve field experiments to assess how well these predators perform in natural environments where variables such as weather, prey availability, and habitat conditions play a role.



“While these insects could help keep spotted lanternfly populations in check someday, we recognize that their impact may be limited by consistent presence of sufficient prey and the use of insecticides that can also kill these generalist predators,” Hoover said. 



“Therefore, they should be considered part of a broader integrated pest management strategy rather than a standalone solution.”



Johnson recommends that those interested in additional management techniques consult Penn State Extension’s Spotted Lanternfly Management Guide, which provides practical solutions for controlling the pest. The guide is available for download from the extension website.



The research was a collaborative effort, bringing together experts in entomology and ecology. The study was co-authored by Sara Hermann, a professor of arthropod ecology at Penn State.



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11829-025-10138-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arthropod-Plant Interactions</a>.



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Native insects can lead the battle against the spotted lanternfly

The spotted lanternfly has become a growing concern across the...

Pot-stewed duck neck is a popular snack that often runs into trouble with rapid spoilage. It has plenty of moisture and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-a-protein-that-reverses-cellular-aging/">protein</a>, which can turn it into a breeding ground for unwanted bacteria in record time.



<a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Wei-Liu-41" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Wei Liu</a> from Nanchang University, China, led a research project showing how a new approach can protect this snack. The team focused on capturing the benefits of <a href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/essential-oils-101-do-they-work-how-do-you-use-them" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">essential oils</a> to keep meat products fresh for longer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-pot-stewed-duck-neck">Understanding pot-stewed duck neck</h2>



Pot-stewed duck neck, or PSDN, is loved across Asia for its rich flavor. Many people enjoy it as a casual treat at family gatherings or during work breaks.



Since it contains a high water content and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/farmed-salmon-diet-would-be-beneficial-for-humans/">vital nutrients</a>, it becomes an easy target for microbial growth. Synthetic preservatives can limit bacterial and fungal activity, but they raise consumer concerns about added chemicals in everyday meals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-essential-oils">Why essential oils?</h2>



Scientists studied <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-coffee-is-missing-these-five-brain-boosting-spices/">cinnamon</a> and zanthoxylum extracts for their ability to fight off unwelcome microbes. Essential oils extracted from these plants are known to keep certain harmful bacteria at bay.



Cinnamon, in particular, contains aromatic compounds that can hinder bacterial development. Zanthoxylum is also valued in cooking for its ability to enhance taste.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fresh-twist">The fresh twist</h2>



In this study, the researchers solidified these fragile oils within a structure made from <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0963996923013194" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">porous starch</a>. This structure was then reinforced by a dual-layer of chitosan and sodium alginate, and sealed with calcium to lock the oils in place.



The result was a solid preservative with a slow release of active elements, which cut down on harsh odors. This method gives the snack’s surface a reliable way to absorb the antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits of the oils over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-it-helps-pot-stewed-duck-neck">How it helps pot-stewed duck neck</h2>



Tests revealed that the product maintained its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blue-cheese-now-comes-in-more-colors-than-just-blue/">flavor and color</a> for at least twice as long as usual when the essential oil preservative was used. Researchers noted that shelf life was extended to about 3 days at 77 °F (25 °C) and around 11 days at 39.2 °F (4 °C), which is a big improvement for a ready-to-eat food.



Lower levels of chemical byproducts linked to rancidity were also documented in the food. This shift in freshness can bring peace of mind to both snack lovers and shop owners, cutting down on waste while giving folks more time to enjoy their purchase.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-avoiding-chemical-pitfalls">Avoiding chemical pitfalls</h2>



Consumers read ingredient labels more carefully now than ever before. Many shy away from <a href="https://academicreads.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/A-Realistic-View-of-Essential-Oils-as-Antibacterial-Agents-for-Ready-to-Eat-Fruits-and-Vegetables.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">synthetic preservatives</a>, worried about possible long-term health issues.



Plant-derived substances answer that concern by offering a more natural route. This alternative underscores the appeal of essential oils in prolonging freshness in meats and other staples.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-application">Practical application</h2>



The concept behind the solid preservative can be applied to multiple meat snacks. Busy households could store these items for longer without fear of mold or rancid tastes.



Food businesses might use this method to meet consumer demand for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-say-this-is-the-best-fruit-to-eat-for-a-healthier-liver/">healthier</a> options. It can also reduce the number of products returned due to spoilage, which boosts efficiency.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-food-industry">Impact on food industry</h2>



Meat processors already struggle with strict quality and safety demands. An idea like this can be adapted for broader use, possibly covering everything from sausages to deli slices.



Handling time and transport conditions often weaken <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diet-quality-briefly-improved-during-the-pandemic/">food quality</a>. Slowing bacterial growth and oxidation rates can help producers keep up with stricter standards and maintain consistent supply.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-taste-and-preservation">Balancing taste and preservation</h2>



Strong-smelling oils might overwhelm sensitive palates. This technology addresses that concern by gradually releasing the oils, and limiting sharp odors.



The slower release rate keeps the snack’s core flavor front and center. That matters to anyone who craves a well-seasoned duck neck without a lingering herbal punch.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-ahead">Looking ahead</h2>



The method seems promising for more than just pot-stewed duck neck. Encapsulation and controlled release could also work well for other perishable items like marinated poultry or chilled seafood.



Scientists plan to keep examining different combinations of natural agents in search of palatable and efficient solutions. Matching the right structure and oils might open doors to even safer, tastier snacks.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0956713525000830">Food Control</a>.



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Natural preservation method slows down bacterial growth in meat products

Pot-stewed duck neck is a popular snack that often runs...

A region in China’s Turpan-Hami Basin served as a refugium - or “life oasis”- for terrestrial plants during the end-Permian mass extinction. This event is widely recognized as the most severe biological crisis since the Cambrian period.&nbsp;



The discovery of this life-saving refuge, which is detailed in a recent study,&nbsp;challenges the longstanding belief that land-based ecosystems experienced catastrophic losses on par with marine environments at that time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evidence-of-a-life-oasis-on-land">Evidence of a “life oasis” on land</h2>



The research team was led by Professor Liu Feng from the <a href="http://english.nigpas.cas.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nanjing Institute of Geology and Palaeontology</a> (NIGPAS) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.



According to Professor Feng, the Turpan-Hami Basin offered a protective area where terrestrial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-use-underground-networks-to-eavesdrop-on-their-neighbors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a> communities remained largely intact.&nbsp;



Rather than succumbing to widespread die-off, these plant populations continued evolving, ultimately facilitating a more rapid ecological recovery. Thus, these pockets of resilience played a crucial role in the rebound of life on Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reevaluating-the-end-permian-crisis">Reevaluating the end-Permian crisis</h2>



Occurring roughly 252 million years ago, the end-Permian mass extinction decimated over 80% of marine species. However, its impact on terrestrial life has been less certain.&nbsp;



One common explanation is that catastrophic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-cooling-not-warming-caused-a-major-mass-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic eruptions</a> in Siberia caused extreme conditions, including wildfires and toxic gases.&nbsp;



Researchers previously based this theory on the progressive loss of the Gigantopteris flora in South China and the Glossopteris flora across Gondwanaland around the same time as the extinction.



Opposing views argue that the lethal effects were not universal, but limited by latitude and atmospheric circulation. Some fossil evidence suggests certain Mesozoic plant species actually predating the extinction, pointing to gradual transitions rather than abrupt collapse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-examining-ancient-pollen-and-spores-nbsp">Examining ancient pollen and spores&nbsp;</h2>



Central to the study’s discoveries is the South Taodonggou section in Xinjiang Province. 



The researchers examined ancient pollen and spores and using precise radiometric dating based on a Bayesian age model developed by Professor Yang Wan of the <a href="https://www.mst.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Missouri University of Science and Technology</a>.



The team detected an unbroken record of riparian fern fields and coniferous forests spanning from 160,000 years before the extinction started to 160,000 years after it ended.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/life-oasis_end-Permian_illustration_credit-Yang-Dinghua_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/life-oasis_end-Permian_illustration_credit-Yang-Dinghua_1s.webp" alt="Artistic reconstruction of the terrestrial ecological landscape after the end Permian mass extinction based on fossil palynomorphs, plants, and tetrapods recovered, as well as sedimentological data from the South Taodonggou Section. Credit: Yang Dinghua" class="wp-image-1962551"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Artistic reconstruction of the terrestrial ecological landscape after the end Permian mass extinction based on fossil palynomorphs, plants, and tetrapods recovered, as well as sedimentological data from the South Taodonggou Section. Credit: Yang Dinghua</figcaption></figure>



“The presence of intact tree trunks and fern stems further confirms that these microfossils represent local vegetation, not transported remnants,” said Wan Mingli, a scientist at NIGPAS.



The evidence implies that certain plants vanished locally, but the overall loss of spore and pollen species in the South Taodonggou section could have been about 21% - much lower than the known marine extinction level at the time.&nbsp;



Many seemingly extinct species reappeared in Early Triassic layers elsewhere, indicating they may have migrated rather than disappeared altogether.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-recovery-and-ecological-diversity">Rapid recovery and ecological diversity</h2>



A stable vegetation foundation apparently sped up ecological resurgence in this “life oasis.”&nbsp;



Fossil data shows that just 75,000 years after the extinction ended, the region already supported a range of terrestrial vertebrates, such as the herbivorous Lystrosaurus and carnivorous chroniosuchians.&nbsp;



This contradicts earlier assumptions that ecosystems took over a million years to recover following the end-Permian extinction. In this area, it happened more than ten times faster.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/life-oasis_end-Permian_palynomorphs_illustration_credit-Yang-Dinghua_1big.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/life-oasis_end-Permian_palynomorphs_illustration_credit-Yang-Dinghua_1s.webp" alt="Artistic reconstruction of the terrestrial ecological landscape after the end Permian mass extinction based on fossil palynomorphs, plants, and tetrapods recovered, as well as sedimentological data from the South Taodonggou Section. Credit: Yang Dinghua" class="wp-image-1962553"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Artistic reconstruction of the terrestrial ecological landscape after the end Permian mass extinction based on fossil palynomorphs, plants, and tetrapods recovered, as well as sedimentological data from the South Taodonggou Section. Credit: Yang Dinghua</figcaption></figure>



The researchers attribute such resilience to the region’s semi-humid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-chaos-the-mass-extinction-that-reshaped-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a> and steady rainfall, evaluated through paleosol analysis. 



The Turpan-Hami Basin consistently received around 1,000 millimeters of precipitation annually, providing lush vegetation and an environment beneficial to migrating wildlife.



Despite its apparent proximity to volcanic activity believed to have spurred the extinction, the basin functioned as a safe haven for terrestrial life, illustrating how even seemingly threatened areas can preserve crucial biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-pockets-of-resilience">Surprising pockets of resilience</h2>



“This suggests that local climate and geographic factors can create surprising pockets of resilience, offering hope for conservation efforts in the face of global environmental change,” Feng said.&nbsp;



The existence of such a shelter for plants during the crisis calls into question the scope and uniformity of land-based mass extinctions. In some locales, climates and landscapes worked in concert to protect certain species from the worst consequences.



As modern science grapples with the possibility of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extinction-crisis-entire-branches-of-earths-tree-of-life-are-vanishing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sixth mass extinction</a> - potentially driven by human impacts - these findings underscore the importance of discovering and safeguarding present-day refugia.&nbsp;



By identifying environments where life can endure, even amid large-scale devastation, conservationists might replicate and preserve these safe harbors for future generations.



The study was published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.ads5614" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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'Life oasis' provided refuge for plants during Earth's worst extinction event

A region in China’s Turpan-Hami Basin served as a refugium...

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