<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



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



<p>"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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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Sediment flows offshore from the Yangtze River 

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> 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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



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



<p>"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.</p>



<p>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.”</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</p>



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The Ruki River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



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



<p><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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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."</p>



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



<p>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. </p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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Dust streams from Lago Colhué Huapi in Argentina 

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features thick haze over Thailand during the fire season. The photograph was captured by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the Suomi NPP satellite on March 16, 2024.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-waves-of-smoke-and-haze">Waves of smoke and haze</h2>



<p>"Each year in January and February, satellites begin to detect waves of smoke and fire in Southeast Asia, particularly in highland forests in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand. Fire activity continues to increase through March and April, reaches a peak during the height of the dry season, and then fades in May with the start of the rainy season," noted NASA.</p>



<p>"Individual fires are usually small and short-lived. But they are often so numerous that smoke, along with air pollution from rural and urban areas, mixes to produce thick layers of haze that blanket the landscape." </p>



<p>"Such hazes contain mixtures of small airborne particles called aerosols and gaseous pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and ozone that degrade air quality and have harmful health effects."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-haze-in-thailand-nbsp">Haze in Thailand&nbsp;</h2>



<p>An international field campaign - the Airborne and Satellite Investigation of Asian Air Quality (ASIA-AQ) - was recently launched to investigate the haze in Thailand.</p>



<p>"During the last two weeks of March 2024, NASA’s DC-8 and Gulfstream III aircraft flew several flights over Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and rural areas surrounding the cities to sample air quality with several sensors. At the same time, satellites observed the haze from above," said NASA.</p>



<p>James Crawford, ASIA-AQ’s principal investigator, said the team is collaborating closely with national and local government entities in Thailand.</p>



<p>“The goal is to take as many simultaneous measurements of pollutants as possible from the ground, air, and space,” said Crawford. The team will use the data to gain a better understanding of how the haze forms, evolves chemically over time, and moves throughout the region.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-haze-and-public-health-in-thailand">Haze and public health in Thailand </h2>



<p>According to media reports, nearly 200,000 people have been hospitalized this year due to air quality in the region, with over 1.3 million people falling ill since January.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-root-causes">Root causes</h3>



<p>The root causes of the haze include agricultural burning, particularly of corn fields, as part of slash-and-burn practices to prepare land for the next planting cycle. This is exacerbated by the dry season when there's little rain to wash the pollutants away. </p>



<p>The situation is worsened by industrial emissions and vehicle fumes, particularly in urban areas like Bangkok​.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-solutions-are-needed">Sustainable solutions are needed</h3>



<p>Efforts to address the crisis have been complex, involving local and transboundary issues. Much of the agricultural burning occurs not only within Thailand but also in neighboring countries like Myanmar and Laos, contributing to the transboundary nature of the haze. </p>



<p>Activists and local communities have called for sustainable solutions that do not exacerbate the poverty of smallholder farmers, emphasizing the need for affordable and realistic alternatives to burning​.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigation-measures-nbsp">Mitigation measures&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The Thai government has implemented a no-burning rule until the end of April to combat wildfires and haze, but enforcement and effectiveness remain challenges​​. </p>



<p>Some measures taken to mitigate the immediate effects of pollution in urban areas include spraying water and seeding clouds to encourage rain, although these have had limited success​​.</p>



<p>This ongoing environmental crisis has sparked widespread concern among citizens, who are increasingly using public interest litigation to hold companies and the government accountable for environmental commitments. </p>



<p>With recent political changes, there is hope that the new administration will take more decisive action against the haze, possibly through more stringent regulations and international cooperation​​.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-impacts-of-haze">Health impacts of haze</h2>



<p>Haze poses several health hazards for those exposed to it, particularly when it contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Here are some of the main health risks associated with exposure to haze:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-respiratory-problems">Respiratory problems</h3>



<p>Haze can aggravate conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). The fine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heatwaves-and-air-pollution-may-double-fatal-heart-attack-risk/">particles</a> can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing inflammation and reducing lung function.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cardiovascular-issues-and-haze">Cardiovascular issues and haze</h3>



<p>Exposure to fine particulate matter can also affect the cardiovascular system, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure. Particles can affect blood vessel function and promote the formation of blood clots.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eye-irritation">Eye irritation</h3>



<p>Haze can cause eye irritation, leading to conditions such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) or exacerbated symptoms in people with existing eye conditions.</p>



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



<p>For some people, exposure to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-will-increase-dramatically-in-a-hotter-climate/">polluted air</a> can cause skin irritation or exacerbate skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduced-immune-function">Reduced immune function</h3>



<p>There is evidence to suggest that prolonged exposure to polluted air can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-mental-health">Impact on mental health</h3>



<p>There are growing concerns about the impact of air pollution on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-linked-to-multiple-chronic-health-conditions/">mental health</a>, with studies suggesting a link between exposure to polluted air and an increased risk of depression and anxiety.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pregnant-women-and-children">Pregnant women and children</h3>



<p>Pregnant women, children, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the effects of haze. There may be increased risks of preterm birth and low birth weight in babies, and children may experience delayed development and reduced lung function.</p>



<p>The health impacts of haze can be mitigated by staying indoors on days when air quality is particularly poor, using air purifiers, wearing masks designed to filter out fine particles, and following local health advisories.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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

Haze pollution is an environmental crisis in Thailand

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the delta of the Ebro River on the northeast coast of Spain, captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ebro-river">Ebro River</h2>



<p>“Stretching across 910 km of northern Spain, the Ebro River is the second-longest river in the Iberian Peninsula. In the image, it can be seen as a green line winding its way through the peninsula before flowing into the Mediterranean, shaping the Ebro Delta,” noted ESA.</p>



<p>“The Ebro River discharges more water into the sea than any other river in Spain. As suspended sediment flows from the river’s mouth, it tints the coastal waters with a turquoise hue.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ebro-delta">Ebro Delta</h2>



<p>The Ebro Delta is one of the largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wetland-methane-emissions-have-surged-at-high-latitudes/">wetland areas</a> in the western Mediterranean region. The river's basin is the largest in Spain, covering about 85,000 square kilometers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historical-significance-nbsp">Historical significance&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Historically, the Ebro River has been significant in numerous battles, including the famous Battle of the Ebro during the Spanish Civil War, which was one of the war's longest and deadliest conflicts.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-significance-nbsp">Economic significance&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Economically, the Ebro plays a crucial role in agriculture, particularly in regions like La Rioja and Navarre, which are known for their vineyards. Additionally, the river supports various industries and hydroelectric power generation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-significance">Ecological significance</h2>



<p>The Ebro Delta is ecologically rich, providing habitat for diverse bird species. It is also a vital area for rice cultivation in Spain.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-reserve">Nature reserve</h3>



<p>“Most of the delta comprises the Ebro Delta Nature Reserve. With its protected wetlands, beaches, marshes, salt pans and estuaries, this reserve provides a natural habitat for numerous migratory birds and waterfowl,” said ESA.</p>



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



<p>The river and its delta face environmental challenges such as pollution, water extraction for irrigation, and the impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-may-have-altered-river-flow-worldwide/">climate change</a>, which threaten its ecosystem and the sustainability of its water resources.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-northeast-coast-of-spain">The northeast coast of Spain</h2>



<p>The northeast coast of Spain is a vibrant and diverse region, characterized by its rich history, unique culture, and stunning landscapes. </p>



<p>It includes the autonomous communities of Catalonia, which features the dynamic city of Barcelona, and part of the Valencian Community. This area is also part of what is known as the Costa Brava, which stretches from the town of Blanes up to the French border.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geography">Geography</h3>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-activity-impacts-97-percent-of-the-worlds-coastline/">coastline</a> is renowned for its rugged beauty, with rocky cliffs, secluded coves, and small beaches. The interior regions feature mountains such as the Pyrenees, which offer skiing in winter and hiking in the summer.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-heritage">Cultural heritage</h3>



<p>The area has a strong cultural identity, particularly in Catalonia, where there is a significant movement for independence. The Catalan language is widely spoken alongside Spanish. The region is also known for its festivals, architecture (notably the works of Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona), and traditional dances like the Sardana.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cuisine">Cuisine</h3>



<p>The cuisine is a delightful mix of fresh seafood from the Mediterranean, traditional Catalan dishes like "pa amb tomàquet" (bread with tomato), and rice dishes such as paella in the Valencian region. The area is also famous for its wines, including the sparkling wine Cava.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tourism">Tourism</h3>



<p>The northeast coast attracts millions of tourists each year due to its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and vibrant cities. Barcelona, in particular, is a major tourist destination with attractions like the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the bustling La Rambla.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economy">Economy</h3>



<p>The economy of the northeast coast is one of the most dynamic in Spain, with Barcelona serving as a major hub for trade, education, entertainment, and technology.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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The Ebro River on the northeast coast of Spain

Puya,Alpestris,,Sapphire,Tower,,Giant,Bromeliad,In,Bloom,Close-up,In

<p>Get ready to witness an incredibly rare and spectacular sight. A plant so extraordinary it's been nicknamed the Sapphire Tower is blooming for the first time in a decade at the <a href="https://bbgardens.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Birmingham Botanical Gardens</a>. </p>



<p>This "otherworldly" beauty from the Chilean Andes is a must-see, but you'll have to hurry – these <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sapphire-tower-plant-blooms_puya-alpestris_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">breathtaking blooms</a> won't last long.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-the-sapphire-tower">What is the Sapphire Tower?</h2>



<p>The Sapphire Tower, or <a href="https://earthpedia.earth.com/plant-encyclopedia/angiosperms/bromeliaceae/puya-alpestris/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Puya alpestris</em></a>, is a fascinating and visually striking plant native to the Andean regions of Chile. </p>



<p>Part of the bromeliad family, which includes more familiar plants like pineapples and Spanish moss, <em>Puya alpestris</em> is particularly notable for its unique and vibrant characteristics.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Appearance and growth</h3>



<p>The Sapphire Tower is characterized by its rosettes of silver-green leaves that are long, narrow, and edged with sharp spines. </p>



<p>The plant can grow quite large, typically reaching heights of up to a meter or more. It's known for its dramatic <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/7-beautiful-flowering-trees-and-how-to-identify-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flowering</a> stalks, which can extend several meters high, far above the foliage.</p>



<p>The flowers themselves are what give the Sapphire Tower its name. They bloom in a striking metallic blue to turquoise color, and they are densely packed on the towering spikes. </p>



<p>These blooms are not only rare but also ephemeral, typically appearing only after many years of growth. The plant’s blooming cycle is particularly slow, often taking up to a decade to produce flowers.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Pollination and ecological role</h3>



<p>In its native habitat in Chile, the <em><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sapphire-tower-plant_puya-alpestris_1.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Puya alpestris</a></em> is adapted to being pollinated by birds, particularly hummingbirds. </p>



<p>The shape of the flowers and their arrangement on the tall spike are perfectly suited to facilitate bird pollination. </p>



<p>The coloration of the flowers is also believed to be an adaptation to attract these specific pollinators.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sapphire Tower cultivation and care</h3>



<p>Outside of its native range, cultivating <em>Puya alpestris</em> can be challenging. It requires well-draining soil, as it is adapted to the rocky soils of mountainous regions. </p>



<p>The plant prefers full sun and tolerates drought well. This is due to its ability to store water in its thick leaves, similar to other bromeliads. </p>



<p>In regions outside of Chile, the <em>Puya alpestris</em> is often grown in botanical gardens. It is also grown as an ornamental plant by enthusiasts who appreciate its dramatic appearance and rare blooming.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollinating-the-sapphire-tower">Pollinating the Sapphire Tower</h2>



<p>In their natural habitat, Sapphire Towers rely on hummingbirds for pollination. But in a botanical garden, dedicated horticulturists like Alberto Trinco step in to give nature a helping hand.</p>



<p>"Each flower only lasts a few days, giving us a limited window of time to give nature a helping hand," explains Trinco. "It is very slow-growing, so to witness its spectacular blooms is both exciting and rare."</p>



<p>Their job is to carefully transfer pollen from one <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/5-easiest-perennial-flowers-to-grow-in-your-garden/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flower</a> to another – a delicate process with a brief window for success.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-pollination-is-important-to-sapphire-tower-plants">Why pollination is important to Sapphire Tower plants</h2>



<p>Pollination plays a vital role in the life cycle of plants such as the Sapphire Tower. This process is essential because it leads to the production of seeds, which are crucial for the propagation and survival of the species. </p>



<p>By transferring pollen from the male structures of one <a href="https://www.earth.com/plant-encyclopedia/angiosperms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flower</a> to the female structures of another, pollination initiates the development of seeds that will eventually grow into new plants.</p>



<p>For the Sapphire Tower, which blooms infrequently and only under specific conditions, successful pollination is particularly significant. </p>



<p>The seeds produced through this process ensure the continuation of the species, allowing it to thrive in its natural habitats. </p>



<p>These seeds carry the genetic blueprint of the plants, enhancing genetic diversity. This diversity is crucial for adapting to changing environmental conditions and resisting diseases and pests.</p>



<p>By preserving the species through natural reproductive processes like pollination, we ensure its survival. This allows future generations to enjoy and appreciate the extraordinary beauty of the Sapphire Tower.</p>



<p>The plant’s unique characteristics and striking appearance make it a valuable specimen for botanical gardens and plant enthusiasts. </p>



<p>Thus, effective pollination not only supports the ecological balance in the plant's native environment but also enhances human appreciation and understanding of biodiversity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-don-t-miss-this-exquisite-sapphire-tower-bloom">Don't miss this "exquisite" Sapphire Tower bloom</h2>



<p>If you're lucky enough to be near the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, you have a chance to witness this breathtaking sight for yourself. But don't wait too long! You might only have between 10 days to two weeks to experience it.</p>



<p>The Sapphire Tower serves as an incredible reminder of our planet's amazing biodiversity. Slow-growing marvels and fleeting, vibrant blooms fill the natural world with delicate and awe-inspiring wonders.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interesting-facts-on-sapphire-towers">Interesting facts on Sapphire Towers</h2>



<p>Here are some other fascinating facts about the Sapphire Tower to amaze your friends and family:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distant-relatives">Distant relatives</h3>



<p>Bromeliads are the same plant family as pineapples. It's hard to imagine the spiky, alien-like Sapphire Tower is related to our favorite tropical fruit, but it is. </p>



<p>This family, known for their rosette shape and central "tank" formed by their tightly overlapping leaf bases, showcases a wide variety of forms and adaptations, highlighting the diversity of the bromeliad family.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-altitude-home">High altitude home</h3>



<p>Sapphire Towers thrive in the harsh, mountainous regions of Chile. These plants perfectly adapt to the rocky, nutrient-poor soils and the drastic temperature shifts between day and night in high altitudes. Their resilience in these tough environments showcases their hardy nature and survival strategies.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-living-fossils">Living fossils</h3>



<p>Some Puya species, including the Sapphire Tower, are incredibly old and have changed little for millions of years. These plants are living relics of ancient times, providing a glimpse into past ecosystems and the evolutionary history of flora.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptation-mastery">Adaptation mastery</h3>



<p>The Sapphire Tower’s ability to store water in its thick, waxy leaves enables it to survive the dry periods common in its native habitat. This water storage capability, along with their ability to absorb water directly from fog and mist, demonstrates their incredible adaptability to their environment.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-significance">Conservation significance</h3>



<p>The unique characteristics and the rarity of the Sapphire Tower make it an important species for conservation efforts. Preserving such species helps maintain biodiversity and the health of ecosystems, which in turn supports overall environmental resilience and stability.</p>



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Rare 'Sapphire Tower' plant blooms for the first time in a decade

Get ready to witness an incredibly rare and spectacular sight....

<p>Psilocybin, the primary psychoactive component in “magic mushrooms” of the genus <em>Psilocybe</em>, has recently gained attention not only as a popular recreational drug but also in the realm of medicine for its potential therapeutic benefits.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-is-psilocybin-produced-by-magic-mushrooms">How is psilocybin produced by magic mushrooms?</h2>



<p>Notably, the psilocybin found in magic mushrooms has shown promise in treating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/magic-mushrooms-depression-brain/">depression</a>, addiction, and anxiety, reaching advanced stages of clinical trials as a potential pharmaceutical treatment. Now, a study led by the <a href="https://www.i-med.ac.at/universitaet/index.html.en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Medical University of Innsbruck</a> has comprehensively examined how psilocybin is produced by magic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-learn-why-psilocybin-mushrooms-make-you-hallucinate/">mushrooms</a>.</p>



<p>Produced by a complex biochemical process from the amino acid L-tryptophan, psilocybin's synthesis involves critical enzymes, including PsiM, a methyltransferase.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“There are many methyl transfer reactions in nature,” said co-author Dirk Hoffmeister, a professor of pharmaceutical microbiology at <a href="https://www.uni-jena.de/en">Friedrich Schiller University Jena</a> and leader of a research group at the <a href="https://www.leibniz-hki.de/en/">Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute</a> (Leibniz-HKI). “Here, we asked ourselves how exactly psilocybin production is accomplished.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psim-enzyme-s-role-in-psilocybin-production">PsiM enzyme's role in psilocybin production</h2>



<p>In&nbsp; a collaborative effort, experts from the Medical University of Innsbruck, led by crystallographer Bernhard Rupp, and Hoffmeister's team at Jena delved into the PsiM enzyme's role in psilocybin production using biochemical analysis and X-ray crystal structure analysis, which visualizes proteins at the atomic level.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Their findings revealed that PsiM, crucial for the last two steps of psilocybin synthesis, bears significant structural similarities to enzymes typically involved in RNA modification. Despite some differences, these similarities suggest that PsiM evolved from an RNA methyltransferase, which originally could attach only one methyl group to its target.</p>



<p>The experts also found that a single amino acid change in PsiM enabled it to carry out two consecutive methylation reactions, crucial for converting the psilocybin precursor norbaeocystin into psilocybin. This precursor structurally mimics part of RNA but undergoes double methylation, a key step in psilocybin production.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-biotechnological-applications-in-creating-psilocybin">Future biotechnological applications in creating psilocybin</h2>



<p>Moreover, the researchers explored whether PsiM could add a third methyl group to convert psilocybin into aeruginascin, a naturally occurring psilocybin analog. The scientific community has long debated whether aeruginascin is a byproduct of psilocybin biosynthesis.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This is clearly not the case. PsiM is not able to convert psilocybin to aeruginascin,” Hoffmeister said. While definitively ruling out PsiM's involvement in aeruginascin production, this finding highlights its potential for future biotechnological applications in creating psilocybin.</p>



<p>“Overall, our results can help to develop new variants of psilocybin with improved therapeutic properties and to produce them biotechnologically,” Hoffmeister concluded.</p>



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



<p>Magic mushrooms have been used for thousands of years in various cultural and religious rituals, primarily for their ability to induce profound changes in perception, mood, and thought. Upon ingestion, psilocybin is converted in the body to psilocin, which is responsible for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-offers-new-explanation-for-how-psychedelic-drugs-work/">psychedelic effects</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-experience-of-magic-mushrooms-nbsp">Experience of magic mushrooms&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The experience of taking magic mushrooms can vary greatly depending on the dose, individual psychology, and environmental setting. </p>



<p>Common effects include visual and auditory <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-learn-why-psilocybin-mushrooms-make-you-hallucinate/">hallucinations</a>, an altered sense of time, euphoria, and a feeling of deep connection to others and the natural world. However, users can also experience negative effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and nausea.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-interest-nbsp">Scientific interest&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Scientific interest in psilocybin has grown in recent years, especially for its potential therapeutic benefits. Research suggests that psilocybin may help treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These studies have shown that psilocybin can create lasting changes in personality and attitude towards life, often characterized by increased openness and a greater sense of peace.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-legal-landscape-nbsp">Legal landscape&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Despite their potential benefits, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-psilocybin-mushrooms-got-their-magic/">magic</a> mushrooms are classified as Schedule I substances in the United States and are illegal in many other countries. This classification is due to their high potential for abuse and lack of recognized medical value under current laws.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, the legal landscape is slowly changing as more research highlights the therapeutic potential of psilocybin, leading some regions to reconsider their stance on these substances.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-46997-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<p>-----</p>



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How did magic mushrooms evolve to contain psilocybin?

Psilocybin, the primary psychoactive component in “magic mushrooms” of the...

<p>Have you ever wondered what secrets lie hidden in the Sun's atmosphere? Scientists have been puzzled by a <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sun-moss_nasa-TRACE-mission_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">peculiar structure</a> on the Sun that they've dubbed "moss" due to its resemblance to the earthly plants. </p>



<p>This bright, patchy plasma formation has been a mystery for decades, but recent research is shedding light on its superheating mechanism.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-the-sun-s-moss">Discovering the Sun's moss</h2>



<p>Souvik Bose, a research scientist at Lockheed Martin <a href="https://www.lmsal.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Solar and Astrophysics Laboratory</a> and <a href="https://baeri.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bay Area Environmental Institute</a>, NASA's <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/ames/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ames Research Center</a> in California's Silicon Valley, and his team have made significant progress in understanding the "moss" on the Sun.</p>



<p>First identified in 1999 by NASA's <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/trace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TRACE mission</a>, this structure is found around the center of sunspot groups, where magnetic conditions are strong. It spans two atmospheric layers, the chromosphere and corona, and lies beneath the feathery ropes of plasma known as coronal loops.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sunspot-groups-dark-regions-on-the-sun-s-surface">Sunspot groups: Dark regions on the Sun's surface</h2>



<p>Sunspot groups are areas on the Sun's surface that appear darker than their surroundings due to their lower temperatures. These fascinating features have captivated astronomers for centuries and play a crucial role in our understanding of solar activity and its impact on Earth.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-formation-and-structure">Formation and structure</h3>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-sunspot-may-soon-disrupt-earths-power-grids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sunspots</a> form when intense magnetic fields emerge from the Sun's interior and pierce through its surface. These magnetic fields inhibit the upward flow of hot gases from below, causing the affected areas to cool down and appear darker. Sunspots typically develop in pairs or groups, with each spot having opposite magnetic polarities.</p>



<p>Within a sunspot group, the largest and most dominant spot is called the "leader," while the smaller spots are known as "followers." The leader spot usually appears first and is located closer to the Sun's equator, while the followers trail behind and are positioned at higher latitudes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sun-moss-and-the-sunspot-cycle">Sun moss and the sunspot cycle</h3>



<p>Sunspot groups are not static features; they evolve and change over time. The number and size of sunspot groups on the Sun's surface vary in a periodic manner known as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-sunspot-may-soon-disrupt-earths-power-grids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sunspot cycle</a>, which lasts approximately 11 years. </p>



<p>During the peak of the cycle, known as the solar maximum, the Sun exhibits a higher number of sunspot groups and increased solar activity. Conversely, during the solar minimum, sunspot groups are less frequent, and the Sun is relatively calm.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-solar-activity">Impact on solar activity</h3>



<p>Sunspot groups are often associated with intense solar activity, such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-solar-outburst-detected-simultaneously-at-earth-the-moon-and-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CMEs</a>). These events occur when the magnetic fields in and around sunspots become entangled and release a tremendous amount of energy. </p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/geomagnetic-disturbances-throw-nocturnal-birds-off-course/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Solar flares</a> and CMEs can have significant impacts on Earth, including disrupting satellite communications, affecting power grids, and triggering beautiful auroral displays.</p>



<p>Astronomers monitor sunspot groups using various ground-based and space-based observatories. The Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (<a href="https://soho.nascom.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SOHO</a>), a joint mission between <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> and <a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>, provides continuous observations of the Sun and helps scientists track the development and evolution of sunspot groups.</p>



<p>Ground-based solar telescopes, such as the <a href="https://noirlab.edu/public/programs/kitt-peak-national-observatory/mcmath-pierce-solar-telescope/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McMath-Pierce Solar Telescope</a> in Arizona and the <a href="https://www.iac.es/en/observatorios-de-canarias/telescopes-and-experiments/swedish-solar-telescope" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swedish Solar Telescope</a> in La Palma, offer detailed views of sunspot groups and their intricate structures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sun-moss-heating-enigma">Sun moss heating enigma</h2>



<p>One of the biggest challenges scientists have faced is understanding how the mossy region is connected to the Sun's lower <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/for-the-very-first-time-a-spacecraft-has-touched-the-sun/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric layers</a>. </p>



<p>In addition, how is the material there heated from 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit to nearly 1 million degrees Fahrenheit -- a staggering 100 times hotter than the bright surface below? This heating mechanism has been a puzzle for the past quarter of a century.</p>



<p>Thanks to observations from NASA's High Resolution Coronal Imager (<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/soundingrockets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hi-C</a>) sounding rocket and the Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/iris/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IRIS</a>) mission, combined with complex 3D simulations, scientists have gained new insights into the superheating mechanism at play in the moss.</p>



<p>"Thanks to the high-resolution observations and our advanced numerical simulations, we're able to figure out part of this mystery that's stumped us for the past quarter of a century," said Bose. "However, this is just a piece of the puzzle; it doesn't solve the whole problem."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-electrical-currents">Role of electrical currents</h2>



<p>The research team discovered that electrical currents may contribute to heating the moss. Throughout this region, there is a tangle of magnetic field lines, like invisible spaghetti. </p>



<p>This mess of magnetic spaghetti creates electrical currents that can help heat material to a wide range of temperatures, from 10,000 to 1 million degrees Fahrenheit. </p>



<p>The local heating in the moss appears to occur in addition to heat flowing from the hot, multi-million-degree overlying corona.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-understanding-the-sun-s-corona">Implications for understanding the Sun's corona</h2>



<p>The findings, published in the journal <em>Nature Astronom</em>y, can help scientists understand the larger question of why the Sun's entire <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/total-solar-eclipse-captured-from-one-million-miles-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">corona</a> is so much hotter than the surface. However, to fully address how the corona and moss are heated, more observations are needed.</p>



<p>Hi-C is scheduled to launch again this month to capture a solar flare and possibly another moss region together with IRIS. </p>



<p>Scientists and engineers are also working on developing new instruments onboard the future MUlti-slit Solar Explorer (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/muse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MUSE</a>) mission to further investigate this fascinating phenomenon.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sun-moss-and-the-future-of-solar-research">Sun moss and the future of solar research</h2>



<p>In summary, as scientists continue to unravel the mysteries of the Sun's atmosphere, the discovery of electrical currents contributing to the superheating of solar moss marks a significant milestone. </p>



<p>This breakthrough, made possible by advanced observations and complex simulations, brings us one step closer to understanding the perplexing heating mechanism of the Sun's corona. </p>



<p>With upcoming missions like Hi-C and MUSE, researchers are poised to delve deeper into the secrets of the solar moss and its role in the larger puzzle of the Sun's atmospheric heating. </p>



<p>As we eagerly await further revelations, this fascinating cosmic garden reminds us that even the most familiar celestial object still holds countless mysteries waiting to be explored.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-024-02241-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Astronomy</a></em>.</p>



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The Sun is covered with moss, though not the kind you’re thinking

Have you ever wondered what secrets lie hidden in the...

<p></p>
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<p>                <br />
<span style="font-weight: 400;">Today’s </span><b>Video of the Day</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> comes from the </span><a href="https://www.fieldmuseum.org/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Field Museum</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and features a look at a large group of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/octopus-skin-camouflage-material/">octopus</a> moms and their eggs discovered on the seafloor far deeper than scientists would’ve ever expected to find them.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The octopus clique was found almost 2 miles underwater, about 100 miles off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica in an area known as the Dorado Outcrop.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&#8220;When I first saw the photos, I was like &#8216;No, they shouldn&#8217;t be there! Not that deep and not that many of them,&#8221; said Janet Voight, Associate Curator of Zoology at the Field Museum and author of the new study.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&#8212;</span></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">By </span></i><a href="mailto:rarnold@earth.com"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Rory Arnold</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span></i><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Earth.com</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Staff Writer</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Video Credit: </span></i><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">WHOI&#8217;s ALVIN dive 4779, Katie Inderbitzen</span></i></p>

Dozens of octopus moms and their eggs on the ocean floor