Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features sediment swirling in the Gulf of Alaska on December 29, 2023.



"After an unusually snowy start to winter, southern Alaska’s coastline remained under a blanket of white in late December," said NASA.



"Meanwhile, greens and tans swirled in the dark blue water offshore. The dullness of the hues near shore suggests that the water is mostly colored by sediment. It is likely that phytoplankton - microscopic plant-like organisms - contributed to some of the hues farther from the coast."



According to NASA, much of the sediment in this region comes from “glacial flour” carried into the gulf by the Copper River.&nbsp;



"Glacial flour forms as glaciers move over bedrock and grind it into a fine silt. When suspended in water, glacial flour can make the water appear an opaque turquoise color - similar to phytoplankton blooms. The sediment carries iron and other nutrients that can spur the growth of these tiny marine organisms," explained NASA.



Aimee Neeley, a biological oceanographer at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, noted that there are always phytoplankton in the water, but usually at lower levels in the wintertime at these latitudes.



The Gulf of Alaska is a vast and biologically rich body of water that lies at the northernmost part of the Pacific Ocean, encircled by Alaska.&nbsp;



The gulf extends approximately 1,500 miles from the Alaska Peninsula and the Aleutian Islands in the west to the Alexander Archipelago in the east.



Characterized by a subarctic climate, it's known for heavy rain and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-loss-increases-snowfall-over-west-antarctica/">snowfall</a>. The region is also prone to frequent storms and is a significant pathway for colder northern weather patterns moving into the United States.



The Gulf of Alaska is home to a diverse marine ecosystem. It supports many species of fish, such as salmon and halibut, and is also a habitat for marine mammals like whales, sea lions, and seals.



The image was captured by the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) instrument on NASA’s Aqua satellite.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Sediment swirling in the Gulf of Alaska

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features...

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features an astronaut view of the Aladaghlar Mountains in northwestern Iran. These mountains are known for their strikingly colorful landscapes, which make them stand out among other mountain ranges.



"Ridges cast shadows in the valleys and other low elevation areas, creating a three-dimensional appearance. Human alterations to the landscape are most evident in riverbeds, where the even topography is easier to build on and navigate," said NASA.



"Natural processes over millions of years have folded rock layers of various compositions and colors into the curved patterns seen here. These folds are produced by tectonic forces operating along the convergent plate boundary of the Arabia and Eurasia plates. The convergence of these tectonic plates causes uplift, folding, and deformation of the colorful rock layers, and subsequent erosion exposes them."



One of the most remarkable features of the Aladaghlar Mountains is the vivid coloration of their slopes. The name "Aladaghlar" translates to "Colorful Mountains," which is a testament to their unique appearance. 



The Aladaghlar Mountains are part of a larger ecosystem that includes forests, meadows, and rivers, contributing to a rich biodiversity. The region supports a variety of wildlife, including several species that are unique to the area. The diverse wildlife add to the natural beauty and ecological importance of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-and-why-do-mountains-form-new-theories-for-an-age-old-mystery/">mountains</a>.



In addition to their natural appeal, the Aladaghlar Mountains hold cultural significance. The region has a rich history, with evidence of ancient civilizations and historical sites. Local communities have their unique cultures and traditions, which have been influenced by the natural environment of the mountains.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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The Aladaghlar Mountains of northwestern Iran

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features a large sediment plume from the Yangtze River that extends hundreds of kilometers off the coast of China.



"Brown, sediment-laden water is visible along this shallow, turbid stretch of coast year-round, but a vast plume like the one visible here is a characteristic feature of winter. Scientists have proposed several causes of this seasonal phenomenon," said NASA.



"The ebb and flow of tides contain enough energy to stir up sediments from the seafloor, a 2017 study found. While there are also tides in the summer, the models used in the study showed that sediment only rises to the surface in the winter. That’s when temperatures and salinities at the sea surface and bottom are similar, allowing for vertical mixing to occur and for sediment to churn higher into the water column."



Additional studies have suggested that the summer monsoon’s influence on currents impedes the eastward flow of sediment out of the estuaries, noted NASA.



"Despite what looks like a glut of suspended sediment in the water, the overall amount of it flowing from the Yangtze River has declined steadily over the past several decades. The construction of dams, including the Three Gorges Dam, has been the primary driver of this trend."



It is important for scientists to track the movement of suspended sediment. This material can cause direct harm to marine life, as well as indirect harm by blocking sunlight.



The Yangtze River, also known as the Chang Jiang in Chinese, is the longest river in Asia and the third-longest in the world, following the Nile and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazon-river-dolphins-are-at-great-risk-of-extinction-due-to-human-activities/">Amazon</a>. It flows for over 6,300 kilometers (about 3,917 miles) from the glaciers of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in western China to the East China Sea at Shanghai.&nbsp;



The Yangtze River basin is a key region for China's agriculture, industry, and hydroelectric power production. The river's waters are used for irrigation, navigation, and as a source of freshwater. The basin is home to diverse wildlife, including the critically endangered Yangtze river dolphin or Baiji, which may now be extinct.



The image was captured on February 12, 2024 by the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite sensor on the NOAA-20 satellite.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Sediment flows offshore from the Yangtze River 

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Ruki River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). It is a tributary of the Congo River, one of the largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warmer-rivers-keep-antimicrobial-resistant-genes-at-bay/">rivers</a> in the world by discharge and depth. 



The Ruki River, previously known as the Busira, merges with the Momboyo River near the town of Basankusu to become the Lulonga River, which eventually flows into the Congo River at the town of Lisala.



"If the appearance of the muddy Amazon River evokes a coffee cut with cream, the Ruki River, coursing gently through the Congo Basin, is like a dark tea," said NASA.



"On its slow path through mostly untouched lowland rainforest in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the water leaches organic material from vegetation, prompting some researchers to think it is one of the darkest blackwater rivers on Earth. The dissolved material in this distinctive water, scientists are finding, offers clues into the carbon cycle of tropical forests."



In a recent study, researchers measured the chemical composition and flow of the Ruki for the first time.&nbsp;



"The study reported that, as the water color suggests, the Ruki is rich in dissolved organic carbon compounds. It contains four times as much organic carbon as the Congo River and 1.5 times as much as the Rio Negro, the world’s largest blackwater river and a major tributary of the Amazon," said NASA.



Due to this heavy carbon load, the researchers concluded that “tropical forests like those around the Ruki might not accumulate quite as much carbon as we once thought.”



The region around the Ruki River is rich in biodiversity, hosting various species of flora and fauna. It is part of the Congo Basin, the second-largest tropical rainforest area in the world, which is a critical habitat for endangered species and a significant carbon sink.



The river is vital for the livelihoods of local communities. Fishing is a crucial activity, with many people depending on it for sustenance and income. The river also supports agriculture along its banks, where communities grow crops.



In many parts of the DRC, rivers like the Ruki are crucial transportation corridors due to the challenging and often nonexistent road infrastructure. The river enables the movement of people and goods, facilitating trade and access to markets, health care, and education.



The region faces several challenges, including deforestation, overfishing, and environmental degradation, which threaten its ecological balance and the livelihoods of people who depend on it. Efforts to manage and conserve the river's resources are vital for sustainable development.



Understanding and protecting the Ruki River and its surroundings are crucial for the DRC's environmental sustainability, economic development, and the well-being of its communities.



The image was captured by the OLI (Operational Land Imager) on Landsat 8.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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The Ruki River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features dust streaming from Lago Colhué Huapi, a shallow endorheic lake located in the Chubut Province in southern Argentina.



"Strong northwesterly winds often race down the eastern side of the Andes Mountains and whip across the central Patagonian Desert. In the process, they sometimes lift dust from Argentina’s drying Lago Colhué Huapi, fueling intense dust storms," said NASA.



"Lago Colhué Huapi is a particularly rich source of dust because the shallow lake regularly grows and shrinks with variations in the flow of the Senguer River and the pace of evaporation. When lake water levels are low, as they were when MODIS captured this image, fine-grained, lightweight particles are easily transported by the wind."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dust-activity-from-lago-colhue-huapi">Dust activity from Lago Colhué Huapi</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-storms-in-the-gulf-of-alaska-help-shape-the-global-climate/">Dust storms</a> in this region are most common during the summer months from December to March. There are 15 to 30 dust storms in a typical year.&nbsp;



"Dust storms are frequent and persistent enough in this area that they have exposed an open-air archaeological site along the lake’s edge," said NASA.



"The Puesto Roberts 1 site, located in an old floodplain on the southeast side of Lago Colhué Huapi, was first identified in 2019 when archaeologists noticed that winds had exposed a five-centimeter layer of sandy loam soil littered with stone tools and the bones of a wild species of llama called guanaco."



"Archaeologists identified 427 artifacts at the site - including stone cutting blades, milling tools, scrapers, and egg-shaped bola stones used for hunting - spread across 15 square meters, according to a 2022 study led by Heidi Hammond, an archaeologist at the National University of the Patagonia San Juan Bosco."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-lago-colhue-huapi">More about Lago Colhué Huapi</h2>



This lake is an interesting geographical feature primarily because it acts as a seasonal sink for the Senguerr River, which in turn gathers waters from various smaller streams in the region. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-size">Size</h3>



Due to its shallow nature, the size of Lago Colhué Huapi can vary significantly with the seasons and the amount of water it receives from its sources. During times of drought or reduced rainfall, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-pushing-lakes-to-their-boiling-point/">lake</a> can shrink considerably, affecting the local ecosystem and the wildlife that depends on it.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate">Climate</h3>



The lake's surroundings are characterized by a semi-arid climate, which influences the type of vegetation and animal life that can thrive in the area. Despite the harsh conditions, the region around Lago Colhué Huapi supports a variety of bird species, making it a site of interest for birdwatchers and naturalists.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-challenges">Environmental challenges </h3>



In recent years, Lago Colhué Huapi has faced environmental challenges, including the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/">climate change</a>, which has led to lower water levels and increased salinity. These changes pose threats to the lake's ecological balance and the species that inhabit its waters and shores. The situation at Lago Colhué Huapi serves as a reminder of the broader environmental issues facing water bodies in arid and semi-arid regions around the world.



The image was captured on March 29, 2024 by the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on NASA’s Aqua satellite.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Dust streams from Lago Colhué Huapi in Argentina 

The North Pacific Ocean serves as a vast, natural laboratory for understanding the complex ecology of salmon, a crucial species both ecologically and economically. Recent research from the <a href="https://www.uaf.edu/uaf/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Alaska Fairbanks</a> has greatly enhanced our understanding of salmon migration behavior at sea.



This study integrates decades of international research on salmon, offering new insights into their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-migrating-towards-poles-escape-warming-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration</a> patterns and temperature preferences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supermap-for-salmon-migration">Supermap for salmon migration</h2>



Since the 1950s, various countries and agencies have conducted high seas salmon surveys. However, never before have these individual studies been amalgamated into a single, comprehensive database.



This large-scale integration allows for an unprecedented overview of the marine stages of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/california-hatchery-salmon-drought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salmon life</a> cycles. 



"This is a portion of the salmon life cycle that arguably gets overlooked, at least in terms of the grand investment in salmon research," said Curry Cunningham, an assistant professor at UAF's College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences. 



Professor Cunningham also shared his personal connection to the subject. "As someone who always wondered where all these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-commercial-fish-industry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish</a> went when they left Bristol Bay, seeing that pattern come to life was so satisfying."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salmon-hotspots-and-migration">Salmon hotspots and migration</h2>



The compiled data includes over 44,000 gear hauls across the North Pacific, capturing more than 14 million salmon. This ocean-based data contrasts sharply with the more commonly studied river habitats, providing a broader perspective on salmon ecology.



Through detailed mapping, the researchers have pinpointed key areas where different salmon species congregate.



Notably, the maps reveal a gathering hotspot for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/california-chinook-salmon-almost-extinct-due-to-drought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinook salmon</a> in the Bering Sea. They also track the migration routes of maturing sockeye from the North Pacific and Gulf of Alaska towards the Alaska Peninsula, navigating through passes into the Bering Sea throughout the spring and summer months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temperature-tolerance-and-migration">Temperature tolerance and migration</h2>



"It’s not as if all these salmon are going to some party in the middle of the Pacific. This gives us a broad look at where they go," explained Joe Langan, the study's lead author and a postdoctoral fellow at UAF during the project.



This comprehensive mapping of salmon not only clarifies migration paths but also sheds light on the varying temperature tolerances among species. 



For instance, sockeye and chum salmon thrive in temperatures just a few degrees above freezing, whereas coho and steelhead avoid the coldest waters. Chinook and pink salmon occupy the middle range of these temperature extremes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-salmon-in-a-warming-world">Future of salmon in a warming world</h2>



These findings hold particular significance in the current context of climate change, highlighting the critical role of temperature tolerances in shaping how different salmon species might adapt to increasingly warming waters. 



As global temperatures rise, aquatic ecosystems experience significant shifts, which in turn affect the habitat ranges and migration patterns of marine species. Salmon, with their varied migration and temperature preferences, serve as a prime example of how climatic changes can drive evolutionary and migratory adaptations.



Understanding the specific temperature ranges that different salmon species can tolerate provides essential insights into predicting their responses to environmental changes. 



For instance, species thriving in cooler waters may face challenges as these areas warm, potentially pushing them to seek colder, deeper, or more northern waters, altering their traditional migration routes and times. 



Conversely, species with higher temperature tolerances might expand their range, encountering new competitors and predators, which could impact their survival and reproduction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-significance">Study significance</h2>



The research involved meticulous examination of historical data, some of which dated back to the 1950s. This required the retrieval of long-forgotten reports from various sources. Additionally, it involved their standardization and integration into a coherent dataset.



Skip McKinnell, a retired expert from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada and a veteran of early high seas surveys, described the process as "more of a search and rescue mission rather than convincing anyone to provide their data."



The collective efforts of these researchers have transformed the once scattered and isolated studies into a robust resource that enhances our understanding of salmon migration and overall ecology on a global scale.



Moreover, this research documents the fascinating life cycle of these important fish. It equips scientists and policymakers with the knowledge necessary to better protect them in a rapidly changing world.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/faf.12825" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fish and Fisheries</a>.



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Salmon migration routes discovered using historical data

The North Pacific Ocean serves as a vast, natural laboratory...

Laptops are banned from checked luggage on flights for a good reason: their lithium-ion batteries, acting as the device's power source, pose a significant fire risk due to the highly reactive nature of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seaweed-based-battery-may-ultimately-replace-lithium/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lithium</a>. 



This same reactivity makes lithium an excellent choice for batteries, especially those used in electric vehicles and for storing energy from renewable sources like solar and wind. As a crucial element in the transition to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-could-be-powered-entirely-by-renewable-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green energy</a>, lithium's demand has surged dramatically.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-alternative-sources-of-lithium">Finding alternative sources of lithium</h2>



While a vast amount of research has already been done to understand traditional sources of lithium, such as pegmatites and volcanic clays, the quest to identify additional, economically viable, and environmentally safe sources is ongoing.&nbsp;



In this context, researchers from <a href="https://online.wvu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">West Virginia University</a> are investigating alternative sources of lithium, specifically looking at whether remnants of past industrial activities, like mine tailings or drill cuttings, could be tapped without creating new waste.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-demand-for-lithium-as-a-natural-resource-nbsp">Demand for lithium as a natural resource&nbsp;</h2>



“In order to meet the technological needs of the energy transition, batteries of all scales, particularly those that power <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/direct-evidence-electric-vehicles-measurably-reduce-carbon-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electric vehicles</a>, have become increasingly important. 



Lithium-ion batteries are in wide use at present, and continued research to improve them has been a focus of energy engineering. This, in turn, has greatly increased the demand for lithium (Li) as a natural resource,” the authors wrote. 



While the primary ores of Li (pegmatite, salar brine, and volcanic-associated clay) are generally well-understood, it would be desirable to identify additional Li sources that could be safely and economically exploited. 



Using material from previous industrial operations (e.g., mine tailings or drill cuttings) as a source of additional Li would be attractive as it would generate little or no new waste material.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connection-between-lithium-and-sulfur-rich-pyrite">Connection between lithium and sulfur-rich pyrite</h2>



To identify alternative lithium sources, the experts analyzed 15 sedimentary rock samples from the middle-Devonian period found in the Appalachian basin. Surprisingly, these samples showed significant lithium content within pyrite minerals in shale.



This connection between lithium and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predict-gold-concentrations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sulfur-rich pyrite</a> - colloquially known as “fool’s gold” -  opens new avenues for research, particularly as the scientific community explores the potential of lithium-sulfur batteries as alternatives to the current lithium-ion options. 



“I am trying to understand how lithium and pyrite could be associated with one another,” said lead author Shailee Bhattacharya, a doctoral student in sedimentary geochemistry at the <a href="https://shikhasharma.faculty.wvu.edu/isobiogem-lab" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IsoBioGeM Lab</a>. 



This inquiry into organic-rich shale may reveal a higher potential for lithium recovery due to the unique interaction between lithium and pyrite.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shale-deposits-could-serve-as-a-source-of-lithium-nbsp">Shale deposits could serve as a source of lithium&nbsp;</h2>



However, Bhattacharya cautions that while the findings are promising, they are specific to the samples studied and further research is needed to determine if these results can be generalized to other regions. 



Nonetheless, this research suggests that certain shale deposits could serve as a new source of lithium, potentially eliminating the need for new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mining-negatively-affects-fish-populations-across-north-america/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mining</a> operations. 



“We can talk about sustainable energy without using a lot of energy resources,” Bhattacharya said, highlighting the dual benefits of this approach in reducing environmental impact and enhancing sustainability in lithium sourcing.



“This study suggests the possibility that some Li may be sequestered in pyrite in organic-rich shales. As pyrite is a common mineral in the Appalachian Basin, this has implications for exploiting shale pyrite in the Devonian sequence if the Li proves economically extractable. Drill cuttings from past and current oil and gas operations are a ready material upon which to test the feasibility of this concept,” the authors concluded.



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



Lithium is primarily sourced from two types of deposits: spodumene-rich hard rock formations and lithium-rich brines.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hard-rock-mining">Hard rock mining</h3>



Hard rock lithium mining involves traditional mining techniques to extract spodumene, a lithium-bearing mineral.&nbsp;



This method is prevalent in countries like Australia, which is one of the largest producers of lithium through hard rock mining. The extracted spodumene is then processed to produce lithium carbonate or lithium hydroxide.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lithium-brine-extraction">Lithium brine extraction</h3>



On the other hand, lithium brine extraction occurs in salt flats where lithium-rich brine waters are pumped to the surface and left to evaporate in ponds, a process that can take several months.&nbsp;



This method is more cost-effective compared to hard rock mining and is extensively used in South America, especially in Chile and Argentina. These salt flats, often located in arid regions like the Atacama Desert, hold vast reserves of lithium in their underground pools.



Lithium can also be found in geothermal brines, hectorite clay deposits, and oilfield brines, but these sources are less common and currently less commercially viable.&nbsp;



The WVU research will be presented at the upcoming <a href="https://www.egu24.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Geosciences Union (EGU) General Assembly 2024</a>.



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"Fool’s gold" may actually be valuable as an energy source for tech devices

Laptops are banned from checked luggage on flights for a...

Have you ever wondered what would happen if a bumblebee fell into a puddle on a rainy day? You might picture them valiantly swimming to the edge…but the truth might surprise you. Scientists from <a href="https://www.uoguelph.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Guelph</a> have published a remarkable study suggesting that some bumblebee queens might have the ability to survive underwater for several days.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bumblebees-and-their-essential-roles">Bumblebees and their essential roles</h2>



Before we explore their surprising underwater talents, let's take a moment to appreciate bumblebees for who they truly are: vital members of our ecosystem. Unlike honeybees that live in large colonies, bumblebees tend to live in smaller groups, often with just a single queen bee and a handful of workers. 



Additionally, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bumblebees-have-an-incredible-sense-of-smell-to-find-their-way-home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bumblebees</a> are incredibly busy and efficient pollinators. As they flit from flower to flower, bumblebees aren't simply collecting nectar for a sweet treat. Their fuzzy bodies pick up pollen grains from one flower, and when they visit another flower, some of those pollen grains rub off, fertilizing the plant and allowing it to reproduce. 



This process, called pollination, is essential for the health and diversity of plant life. In fact, around a third of the food we eat relies on pollinators like bumblebees to bring their magic touch.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-faced-by-bumblebees">Challenges faced by bumblebees </h2>



Unfortunately, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/queen-bumblebees-are-emerging-too-early-from-hibernation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bumblebees</a> are facing some serious challenges. The widespread use of pesticides harms these important insects, and the loss of natural habitats due to development reduces the places where they can build their nests and find food. 



Climate change is causing more extreme weather events, including flooding. This disrupts the nesting and hibernation areas of many insects that live in the soil, including bumblebees. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accidental-survival-of-bumblebees-underwater">Accidental survival of bumblebees underwater</h2>



The researchers in this study were initially interested in how pesticides in the soil affected hibernating bumblebees. However, their work took an unexpected turn, leading to this astonishing discovery.



Dr. Sabrina Rondeau, who led the study, accidentally left hibernating bumblebee queens exposed to water in her lab. She expected a disastrous outcome but was amazed to find most of the bees survived. 



This surprising observation led to a more in-depth experiment to see just how long bumblebees might live underwater. "I've been studying bumblebees for a very long time. I've talked about it to a lot of people and no one knew that this was a possibility," said Dr Rondeau.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-bumblebee-endurance-underwater">Testing bumblebee endurance underwater</h2>



In their study, scientists investigated the survival capabilities of 143 queen bumblebees by subjecting them to different lengths of submersion underwater. The durations ranged from just a few hours to an entire week. 



This experiment aimed to test how well these bees could withstand extended periods in water, a situation they might encounter more frequently due to climate change-induced flooding.



The results of the experiment were quite remarkable. Over 80% of the queen bumblebees that were submerged for a week did not merely survive the ordeal; they also remained vigorous and healthy for a considerable period afterward. 



Specifically, these bees continued to show normal activity and survival rates up to eight weeks after they were returned to dry conditions. This finding highlights an unexpected resilience among the queen <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/european-bumblebees-face-extinction-as-their-habitats-vanish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bumblebees</a>, suggesting that they possess a robust ability to adapt to extreme environmental challenges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-bumblebee-s-underwater-survival">Significance of bumblebee's underwater survival</h2>



"This is incredibly encouraging news for the future of these crucial pollinators," said Dr. Rondeau. Still, the study brings up intriguing questions for future research. 



Could this trait help <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/californias-bumble-bees-are-vanishing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bumblebees</a> cope with the effects of climate change? Do other bumblebee species share this underwater resilience? And how exactly do bumblebees do this?



Bumblebees play an essential role in our ecosystems, acting as pollinators for a variety of plants, including many crops humans rely on for food. Their health and survival are closely tied to our own agricultural and ecological success. 



Thus, their ability to withstand environmental stressors not only highlights their resilience but also underscores the importance of taking action to ensure their continued survival.



This fascinating discovery reminds us of the incredible ways animals adapt to their environment, something we might need to keep in mind as the climate shifts. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-our-buzzing-allies">Supporting our buzzing allies</h2>



The recent discovery of queen <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/queen-bumblebees-resting-hibernation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bumblebees</a>' ability to survive underwater highlights the remarkable adaptability of animals in the face of environmental changes. Their survival is directly linked to our ecosystems and agricultural success. Here's how we can support them:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planting-for-pollinators">Planting for pollinators</h3>



One of the simplest yet most effective ways to aid bees is by cultivating bee-friendly habitats. Planting wildflowers and native plants in our gardens provides bees with the necessary nutrients they derive from nectar and pollen. Such environments not only support their nutritional needs but also offer safe havens against environmental stresses.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-pesticide-impact">Reducing pesticide impact</h3>



Pesticides pose a significant threat to bees and other pollinators. These chemicals, often used in agricultural and residential settings, can be lethal to bee populations. By adopting natural pest control methods and advocating for policies that restrict pesticide use, we can help mitigate these risks. 



romoting organic farming techniques and encouraging local communities to reduce pesticide use can significantly enhance the safety of bee habitats. These efforts help create healthier environments for these essential pollinators.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-more-about-bees">Learning more about bees</h3>



Increasing public awareness about the importance of bees and the challenges they face is crucial for their protection. Education can lead to better protective measures and policies. Community initiatives like gardening projects, local pesticide bans, and educational programs can drive significant change. 



Learning more about bees and sharing this knowledge helps cultivate a community committed to supporting and sustaining these essential pollinators.



The discovery of bumblebees' underwater survival ability is more than just a scientific curiosity; it serves as a call to action. By taking steps to protect these vital creatures, we can ensure their survival and the health of our global ecosystems.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsbl.2023.0609" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biology Letters</a>.



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Can bumblebees hold their breath and survive underwater?

Have you ever wondered what would happen if a bumblebee...

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New model helps scientists accurately predict Arctic sea ice melt Today’s Video of the Day comes thanks to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIfijgJr0g0">NASA Goddard</a> and features a look at a new model that helps scientists accurately predict Arctic sea ice melt.
The new tool helps scientists estimate September sea ice extent as early as March. The model uses real time satellite data of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toxic-mercury-arctic-soil/">Arctic</a> sea ice melt, so the predictions continue to improve as more information is detected.
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By <a href="mailto:rarnold@earth.com">Rory Arnold</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff">Earth.com</a>
Credit: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIfijgJr0g0">NASA Goddard</a>