More than half a billion years ago, a tiny ancestor of today’s arthropods scuttled along the floor of a shallow sea in what’s now Yunnan, China. It had large grasping arms, stalked eyes, and a surprisingly modern-looking brain tucked into a head barely wider than the tip of a pencil.



Now, a new look at this ancient fossil - Jianfengia multisegmentalis - is reshaping what scientists thought they knew about how these animals first branched into two major evolutionary paths.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arthropods-rule-the-world">Arthropods rule the world</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-think-insects-will-become-a-sustainable-food-source/">Insects</a>, spiders, crabs, centipedes - all of them are arthropods. This massive group includes more than a million known species. 



Arthropods live everywhere: in the ocean, on land, in the air, and even inside of other animals. Their tough exoskeletons, segmented bodies, and jointed legs have helped them survive and thrive for over 500 million years.



But one big puzzle has remained: where exactly did the two main branches of arthropods come from?



On one side, you have mandibulates - creatures like insects, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-invasive-crustacean-species-discovered-in-the-mediterranean/">crustaceans</a>, and millipedes, which have antennae and use jaws (or mandibles) to eat. On the other hand, chelicerates - spiders, scorpions, and horseshoe crabs - have fangs or pincers instead of jaws.



Until now, scientists weren’t sure when or how these two groups split. That’s where Jianfengia comes in.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-fossil-that-tells-a-different-story">A fossil that tells a different story</h2>



At first, Jianfengia was thought to belong to a group called megacheirans, meaning “large hands” in Greek. 



These extinct animals had long, claw-like limbs sticking out from their heads - similar to the claws of modern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horseshoe-crabs-view-the-world-through-compound-eyes/">horseshoe crabs</a>. Because of that, scientists had placed them in the chelicerate group.



But when researchers took a closer look at the fossilized brain of Jianfengia, they noticed something didn’t add up.



The research team, led by the <a href="https://www.arizona.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arizona</a>, reconstructed the nervous system from four well-preserved specimens. 



What they found was unexpected: a brain that looked a lot like that of a modern shrimp or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bright-coloration-in-crayfish-does-not-serve-an-evolutionary-purpose/">crayfish</a>. It even had features seen in simple freshwater crustaceans, like brine shrimp - the kind sold as “sea monkeys.”



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



“These megacheirans didn't have antennules, which are antenna-like appendages that are common to crustaceans, insects and centipedes,” said lead researcher Nicholas Strausfeld, a professor in the U of A Department of Neuroscience. 



“Instead we see these strange, quite sturdy head appendages that were specialized for reaching and clasping things.”



Turns out, those big “claws” weren’t early versions of spider fangs after all. Instead, they were likely the ancestors of antennae - the kind found in today’s insects and crustaceans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seeing-with-ancient-eyes">Seeing with ancient eyes</h2>



Jianfengia’s head was only about 0.08 inches wide, but it packed in a lot of sensory power. It had stalked compound eyes, like those of insects and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-crabs-and-lobsters-have-emotions-and-feelings/">crabs</a>, plus at least three single-lens eyes - the simple kind also seen in many modern arthropods.



In one fossil, the researchers even looked inside the compound eyes and saw fossilized cone cells that once supported light-sensitive parts of the eye. 



“What we saw was unexpected: the brain looks really modern, comparable to that of a living crustacean,” Strausfeld said.



This level of detail is almost never seen in fossils this old. Soft tissues like brains usually break down long before they can fossilize. But thanks to the fine-grained rock and lucky conditions in this ancient seabed, a few rare specimens kept their delicate neural features.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-cousins-go-separate-ways">Ancient cousins go separate ways</h2>



Another fossil - Alalcomenaeus - also belonged to the megacheiran group and had similar body parts. However, it turned out to be quite different on the inside. Its brain looked more like that of Limulus, the horseshoe crab, which is a chelicerate.



So even though these two creatures looked similar on the outside, their brains revealed that they were actually early members of different arthropod groups. One led to modern crustaceans and insects. The other led to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-species-joro-spiders-has-invaded-the-united-states-heres-what-to-look-for/">spiders</a> and scorpions.



“Many repeats of these comparisons revealed that in the arthropod tree of life, Jianfengia sat at or near the root of all mandibulates, whereas its putative cousin, Alalcomenaeus, has the same status, but within the chelicerate branch of the tree of life,” said co-author David Andrew of Lycoming College.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-same-tools-different-outcomes">Same tools, different outcomes</h2>



The key body part in all of this are the large claws sticking out of the head. Over hundreds of millions of years, evolution shaped them into very different things.



“In chelicerates, these ‘great appendages’ shrunk, so they eventually became the spider fangs,” said Strausfeld. “In mandibulates, evolution modified them into segmented antennules.”



Some tiny marine crustaceans alive today - called ostracods - still have antennules tipped with claspers, offering living proof of this evolutionary transition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arthropods-from-the-inside-out">Arthropods from the inside out</h2>



Looking at a creature’s shell or limbs can tell scientists part of the story. But to really understand where an animal fits in the family tree, the brain may offer better clues.



“Our results demonstrate that close examination of fossilized neural remains can provide powerful data indicating evolutionary relationships impossible to obtain just from features of the exoskeleton,” Strausfeld said. 



“One needs to know what to look for in the fossil brain because it tells us a lot about a fossil’s identity.”



Frank Hirth, a co-author from King’s College London, noted that the organization of their fossilized brains perfectly aligns with that of living arthropods, suggesting that their ancient constituents are extraordinarily robust, yet diverse.



This may explain why arthropods are the most successful inhabitants of this planet, said Hirth.



Ultimately, the tiny brain of a long-dead sea creature has helped scientists solve one of the oldest mysteries in animal evolution - where the arthropod family tree began to branch.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-62849-w">Nature Communications</a>.



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Tiny fossil rewrites the giant arthropod family tree

More than half a billion years ago, a tiny ancestor of today’s arthropods scuttled along the floor of a shallow sea in what’s now Yunnan, China. It had large grasping arms, stalked eyes, and a surprisingly modern-looking brain tucked into a head barely wider than the tip of a pencil. Now, a new look at this ancient fossil - Jianfengia multisegmentalis - is reshaping what scientists thought they knew about how these animals first branched into two major evolutionary paths. Arthropods rule the world Insects, spiders, crabs,...

Every year, thousands of tourists head to Africa in search of wildlife encounters. For many, the chance to see lions and hyenas ranks high on their bucket list. 



National parks like Etosha in Namibia offer one of the best opportunities to witness these carnivores in their natural environment. Tourists gather near man-made waterholes and along main roads, hoping for a close look at the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lion-numbers-have-reached-a-critical-low-in-uganda/">animals</a> they’ve only seen in documentaries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-predators-and-tourism">Large predators and tourism</h2>



But how do these predators feel about the attention? New research suggests their movements might tell a different story. 



A study led by the <a href="https://www.uga.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Georgia</a> reveals how lions and hyenas adjust their habits in response to tourist activity. It uncovers a complex relationship between predator behavior, water access, road networks, and human presence.



“The message here is not that tourism is bad. These large predators need large areas to roam and access prey, and tourism is a huge driver of many economies,” said Jim Beasley, co-author of the study and a professor in UGA’s Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environment-shapes-animal-movements">Environment shapes animal movements</h2>



The research team tracked 14 lions and 9 hyenas using GPS collars over eight years. They analyzed movement patterns across seasons and times of day. The findings show that vegetation and water availability influenced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-change-their-daily-schedules-when-tourists-are-watching/">predator</a> behavior more than tourist traffic.



Lions chose areas with less shrubbery and tree cover. Though these cats are ambush predators, dense vegetation may also deter prey. This could force lions to hunt in open landscapes. 



Hyenas, by contrast, gravitated toward grassy and tree-rich zones. This behavior might help them avoid heat and stay hidden.



These habitat choices weren’t random. They reflected a balance between predator needs and landscape features shaped by both nature and tourism infrastructure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-species-evolve-their-own-strategies">Species evolve their own strategies </h2>



Lions showed a consistent preference for waterholes during dry and wet seasons. Their presence near these resources likely serves two purposes - hydration and better chances of encountering prey.



Hyenas showed less interest in water sources. They can survive on water from their prey and seem more flexible in their range. 



The researchers believe hyenas avoid waterholes to reduce competition with lions. This difference in behavior highlights how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-lions-and-farmers-coexist-experts-are-cautiously-optimistic/">species</a> evolve separate strategies in the same landscape.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lions-and-hyenas-dodge-tourist-traffic">Lions and hyenas dodge tourist traffic </h2>



The study also examined how animals interact with roads. Both lions and hyenas use roads to move efficiently. But during the dry season - when tourist traffic peaks - they avoid the busiest ones.



Lions tended to stay near secondary roads that have lower traffic but still provide access to waterholes. Hyenas, known for their wariness around humans, also kept away from primary roads in the dry season. 



However, during the wetter months, when tourism drops, they used primary and secondary roads more freely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animals-develop-tolerance-for-tourists">Animals develop tolerance for tourists</h2>



Etosha sees over 200,000 visitors each year. Over time, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-lions-and-farmers-coexist-experts-are-cautiously-optimistic/">animals</a> may become used to vehicles and people. 



Prior studies in the park have shown habituation in impalas, elephants, and even hyenas. Some lions, too, seem unbothered by tourists. But this tolerance may come with risks.



Animals that grow too used to humans may venture closer to park edges, where interactions with people can turn dangerous. Understanding these patterns helps park managers improve road layouts and visitor guidelines to ensure predator safety.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-tourism-and-conservation">Balancing tourism and conservation </h2>



“National parks where these large carnivores occur are really important areas for conservation but also tourism,” Beasley said. “Tourism brings in a huge amount of revenue to a lot of countries, and many people want to go see large carnivores in the wild.”



But while people enjoy watching wildlife, it’s important to consider the hidden effects of these encounters. 



The research shows that animals don’t just wander randomly. Their choices reflect subtle calculations about safety, prey availability, and human disturbance.



"Large carnivores are especially vulnerable to anthropogenic pressures, which are increasing in areas of Sub-Saharan Africa," wrote the researchers.



"As wildlife-based tourism increases human-wildlife interactions, it is crucial to better understand predator habitat selection to inform conservation strategies."



The study, published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2351989425002823?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Ecology and Conservation</a>, was led by Jessica R. Patterson.



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Lions and hyenas change behavior when tourists are nearby

Every year, thousands of tourists head to Africa in search...

In the natural world, social bonds often determine the success and survival of species. Animals form partnerships, friendships, and alliances that can influence every aspect of their lives, from reproduction to foraging success. 



Among monogamous birds, these social bonds are particularly significant because a single partner is chosen at a time. Selecting and maintaining the right mate can directly affect reproductive outcomes.



A new study by the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a> and <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leeds</a> has revealed that wild great tits display behavioral signs of "divorce" well before birds breeding season. The research shows that social behaviors during winter can predict whether pairs will remain together or split up in the spring.



Great tits form monogamous bonds, and their choice of partner plays a crucial role in reproductive success. Previous research examined why some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hundreds-of-bird-species-could-vanish-in-the-next-century/">pairs</a> remain together while others separate, but it was unclear whether winter social behavior could predict future splits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-study-was-done">How the study was done</h2>



The team analyzed data from the Wytham Woods great tit project, one of the longest-running wild bird studies. 



The researchers monitored breeding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-may-be-using-quantum-physics-for-migration/">pairs</a> and used advanced radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology at feeding stations during the winter months. This allowed them to gather detailed data on social associations between individuals.



Out of 1,169 breeding pairs observed over three years, 287 met the criteria for analysis. This smaller number was expected due to natural mortality and the possibility of immigration in the wild population.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-which-bird-pairs-divorced">Which bird pairs divorced</h2>



Pairs were classified as faithful, divorcing, new, or juvenile based on their breeding history. The data revealed that divorcing pairs spent much less time together in winter than faithful pairs. 



Faithful pairs increasingly associated with each other as the season progressed, while divorcing pairs grew more distant.



“Our results show that bird relationships are far from static. We found a clear behavioral signature in the winter months that can forecast a pair’s likelihood of divorcing by spring. Divorce appears to be a socially driven process, unfolding over time,” noted lead researcher Adelaide Daisy Abraham.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-winter-signs-of-future-bird-divorces">Winter signs of future bird divorces</h2>



Faithful pairs consistently had the highest winter association scores, while divorcing pairs had the lowest. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/all-birds-one-tree-complete-evolutionary-map-reveals-hidden-links/">Birds</a> in new or juvenile pairs showed patterns that shifted over time. 



New pairs started with low association scores but became more similar to faithful pairs as the season continued. Juvenile pairs, meanwhile, increased their association scores but followed different patterns, reflecting their inexperience.



Preferred partner analysis highlighted another divide: divorcing birds almost never considered their breeding partner as their closest social associate during winter. 



Faithful birds, by contrast, strengthened bonds with their partner, often making them their preferred social companion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feeder-visits-showed-bond-strength">Feeder visits showed bond strength</h2>



The study also examined how closely birds followed each other to feeders. Faithful, new, and juvenile pairs frequently visited feeders immediately after their partner, suggesting closer bonds. 



Divorcing bird pairs displayed far less of this behavior, with their visit adjacency declining as winter progressed.



“This work is an important step towards uncovering the social mechanics behind pair bonding and fidelity in the wild. Our study has revealed that it is possible to use behavioral dynamics in wild animal pairs to predict future social states, such as divorce,” noted Professor Ben Sheldon.



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



The findings suggest that information gained during the breeding season influences winter social associations almost immediately. This continuity across seasons could help explain how social decisions and reproductive success are linked.



“Following these individual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-birds-migrate-without-riding-the-wind/">birds</a> across seasons and over many years allows us to see how relationships form and break down in nature in a way that short-term studies wouldn't," said study senior author Dr Josh Firth.



"Going forward, carrying out new experiments in the wild will provide even more opportunities to really understand the fine-scale dynamics of bonding and separation in natural settings."



The analysis not only clarifies the dynamics of birds divorce but also opens doors for research into how social networks and relationship choices affect survival and reproduction across animal species.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2024.12.13.628365v2.full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a>.



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Birds show signs of divorce before the breeding season

In the natural world, social bonds often determine the success...

Climate change is rapidly joining overexploitation and habitat destruction as a third major driver of global biodiversity loss, forcing thousands of animals onto the endangered species list.



A sweeping analysis recently identified at least 3,500 animal species already deemed directly threatened by rising temperatures, intensifying storms, droughts, and other climate-related stresses.



The research, led by <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a> ecologist William Ripple, draws on international databases to show that risk is especially acute for invertebrates. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-climate-impacts-threaten-key-marine-species/">Marine species,</a> in particular, face heightened danger because they cannot easily move away from warmer waters.



The study also warns that true vulnerability is likely far greater because scientists have not formally assessed most animal groups for climate danger.



“We’re at the start of an existential crisis for the Earth’s wild animals,” Ripple said. “Up till now, the primary cause of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-action-and-biodiversity-striking-the-right-balance/">biodiversity</a> loss has been overexploitation and habitat alteration. As climate change intensifies, we expect it to become a third major threat to the Earth’s animals.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-threats-to-animal-species">Climate threats to animal species</h2>



Ripple and colleagues analyzed records for 70,814 species across 35 taxonomic classes, relying on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (<a href="https://iucn.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IUCN</a>) threat categories.



The team discovered that in six whole classes - arachnids, centipedes, anthozoans, hydrozoans, and two other invertebrate groups - climate change threatens at least one-quarter of species.



Other classes, including mammals, birds, and reptiles, contain smaller but still significant proportions of climate-imperiled members. 



The oceans stand out as a danger zone because seawater absorbs most excess heat from greenhouse forcing.



“We are particularly concerned about invertebrate animals in the ocean,” Ripple said. “Those animals are increasingly vulnerable because of their limited ability to move and promptly evade adverse conditions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-iucn-red-list">Understanding the IUCN Red List</h2>



The IUCN <a href="https://www.iucnredlist.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Red List of Threatened Species</a> is like the world’s pulse check for wildlife. It tracks the health of thousands of species - plants, animals, fungi - and tells us who’s thriving, who’s struggling, and who’s on the brink of extinction. 



Scientists use a detailed set of criteria to evaluate risk, ranging from population trends and habitat range to actual threats like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dehorning-rhinos-significantly-cuts-down-on-poaching/">poaching</a> or climate change. 



When a species lands in categories like “Endangered” or “Critically Endangered,” it’s not just a label - it’s a cry for help backed by data.



Governments, conservationists, and communities use the Red List to make decisions about land use, funding, and protection strategies. It influences environmental policies and helps prioritize where to focus resources. 



When we protect what’s on that list, we’re safeguarding ecosystems, cultures, and future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-disasters-kill-millions-of-animals">Climate disasters kill millions of animals</h2>



In recent years extreme climate events have delivered dramatic proof of these vulnerabilities. Off Israel’s coast, a 90 percent crash in mollusk abundance followed a jump in sea-surface temperature.



During the 2021 Pacific Northwest heat dome, billions of intertidal mussels, clams, and snails died in a matter of days. A severe marine heatwave in 2016 bleached nearly 30 percent of Australia’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-barrier-reef-is-on-the-brink-of-extinction/">Great Barrier Reef</a>.



Terrestrial and pelagic vertebrates have suffered too. An extreme warm spell in 2015-2016 altered the marine food web in the North Pacific, starving four million common murres, slashing Pacific cod numbers by 71 percent, and contributing to the loss of roughly 7,000 humpback whales.



Ripple noted that such <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-was-the-cause-of-earths-largest-mass-extinction/">mass mortality</a> events reverberate through ecosystems. “The cascading effects of more and more mass mortality events will likely affect carbon-cycle feedbacks and nutrient cycling.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-missing-data-on-a-massive-scale"><a></a>Missing data on a massive scale</h2>



Although the headline figures are sobering, the authors emphasize that they represent only a fraction of the problem. 



Sixty-six of the planet’s 101 recognized animal classes have not had any species evaluated for climate risk by the IUCN. The 70,814 species examined in the study account for just 5.5 percent of all described animals.



“Our analysis is meant to be a preliminary effort toward assessing climate risk to wildlife species,” Ripple said. “Understanding the risk is crucial for making informed policy decisions."



"We need a global database on mass mortality events due to climate change for animal species in all ecosystems, and an acceleration in assessing currently ignored species.”



The <a href="https://www.iucnredlist.org/">Red List</a> itself is heavily skewed toward vertebrates, which make up fewer than six percent of named animal species, leaving the vast majority of invertebrates - essential to pollination, soil health, and marine food webs - largely unexamined.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-merging-climate-and-conservation">Merging climate and conservation</h2>



Ripple argued that policymakers must couple improved risk assessments with policies that synchronize biodiversity conservation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-mitigation-strategies-may-be-endangering-biodiversity/">climate mitigation</a>.



“There is also a need for more frequent climate risk assessments of all species and better consideration of adaptive capacity,” he added. “We need the integration of biodiversity and climate change policy planning on a global scale.”



Ripple and his co-authors call for real-time monitoring of die-off events and expansion of citizen science initiatives to cover overlooked taxa. 



They also advocate incorporating species’ dispersal abilities and genetic diversity into risk models.



Only with such knowledge can policymakers design interventions that help vulnerable species stand a fighting chance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-animals-with-climate-action">Saving animals with climate action</h2>



With global temperatures already flirting with the 1.5°C threshold that scientists warn will unleash accelerating hazards, the time for closing data gaps is rapidly shrinking.



The new study shows that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-the-largest-threat-to-u-s-endangered-species/">climate change</a> is no longer a distant or incremental danger for wildlife; it is a present crisis that compounds longstanding threats.



Whether governments heed the warning will decide how many species remain confined to the 3,500-strong endangered column - and how many more quietly slide into it as the planet continues to warm.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/bioscience/advance-article/doi/10.1093/biosci/biaf059/8127685?login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BioScience</a>.



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Thousands of animal species face an imminent threat of extinction from climate change

Climate change is rapidly joining overexploitation and habitat destruction as...

Aging is usually viewed as an inexorable march forward - each day etched onto our DNA in the form of subtle chemical marks. Yet new research from the University of Leicester reports that one glittering insect can press “pause” on that process early in life and enjoy a slower biological clock thereafter.



Jewel <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parasitic-wasp-had-a-flytrap-for-snatching-its-victims/">wasps</a> (Nasonia vitripennis), famed for their metallic sheen, enter a hibernation‑like state as larvae when their mothers experience cold and darkness. 



That developmental pause, called <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-development-has-a-pause-button/">diapause</a>, not only extends the adult insects’ lifespan by roughly one‑third; it also slows molecular aging by almost 30 percent.



“It’s like the wasps who took a break early in life came back with extra time in the bank,” said senior author Eamonn Mallon of Leicester’s <a href="https://le.ac.uk/ggb" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Genetics, Genomics and Cancer Sciences</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-tiny-model-for-aging">A tiny model for aging</h2>



Most renowned invertebrate models - think <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fruit-flies-on-treadmills-video-shows-how-insects-walk-and-balance/">fruit flies</a> or nematode worms - lack a DNA methylation system comparable to humans. 



Jewel wasps do possess such a system, making them rare among insects and highly valuable to aging researchers. 



They also live only a few weeks as adults, allowing scientists to track entire lifespans quickly.



“Understanding how and why aging happens is a major scientific challenge,” Mallon said. “With its genetic tools, measurable aging markers, and clear link between development and lifespan, Nasonia vitripennis is now a rising star in aging research.”



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



Aging leaves molecular fingerprints known as methyl groups on DNA, and the accumulation of those marks forms an “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epigenetic-dna-clocks-predict-biological-age-more-accurately/">epigenetic clock</a>” that is among the most accurate indicators of biological age.



Doctoral student Erin Foley and colleagues wondered: if you slow development itself, does the clock slow, too? To test the idea, the team exposed adult female wasps to low temperature and darkness before egg‑laying. 



Those conditions reliably induce diapause in offspring, halting larval growth for several weeks.



When the chilled larvae resumed development and emerged as adults, the scientists measured their chronological life expectancy. The team also used sophisticated methylation profiling to gauge biological age.



The diapause group lived more than 33 percent longer than control wasps raised under standard conditions. More strikingly, their epigenetic clocks “ticked” 29 percent more slowly, indicating genuine deceleration of intrinsic aging processes rather than a mere delay in development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-wasps-to-humans">From wasps to humans</h2>



The team’s molecular deep dive uncovered changes in gene networks tied to insulin signaling and nutrient sensing. 



These are hallmark pathways implicated in human aging and targeted by candidate anti-aging drugs such as metformin and rapamycin.



What sets this study apart is its demonstration that a long-lasting slowdown of aging can be triggered by environmental factors in a model that is both straightforward and highly applicable to human biology. 



In other words, the jewel wasp’s larval pause does not merely stretch youthful vigor; it tweaks biochemical circuits that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/protein-changes-discovered-protect-humans-mammals-from-aging/">mammals</a> share.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-slowing-time-not-stopping">Slowing time, not stopping</h2>



Many animals - from nematodes to bears - can enter dormant states that stall metabolism. But evidence that benefits persist after normal life resumes has been scarce. 



The new findings fill that gap, showing that early‑life environmental cues can confer durable protection against the ravages of time.



That discovery dovetails with human epidemiological data suggesting prenatal nutrition or childhood stress can influence disease risk decades later. 



Jewel wasps now offer a manipulable platform to dissect those cause‑and‑effect chains at molecular resolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-slowing-aging-in-ourselves">Slowing aging in ourselves</h2>



The work does not imply that humans will one day diapause their way to 150. It does, however, spotlight developmental windows when environmental interventions might produce lifelong benefits.



Because the wasps’ slowed clocks involve insulin and nutrient pathways, the study strengthens efforts to modulate those same pathways pharmacologically or through diet. 



Moreover, the precise methylation changes identified could guide biomarker discovery in mammals.



Mallon envisions future projects that compare diapause‑induced methylation patterns with those produced by calorie restriction or drug treatments in mice. If common signatures emerge, they could signal a universal lever for aging control.



“This study opens up new avenues for research into the broader question of whether we might one day design interventions to slow aging at its molecular roots,” said Mallon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-aging-in-wasps">Testing aging in wasps</h2>



The research team reared parent wasps under either normal light and temperature or a cold‑dark regime. Offspring from the latter entered diapause for four to six weeks.



Scientists tracked adult survival and used DNA sequencing over time to map methylation changes after the animals emerged. Statistical models then compared epigenetic age trajectories between groups.



Future experiments will probe whether diapause must occur at a specific larval stage to confer aging benefits or whether adult diapause (possible in some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-are-uniquely-adapted-to-withstand-harsh-winter-climates/">insects</a>) offers similar protection.



Another avenue is gene editing. Researchers knock out or overexpress key insulin-pathway genes to see if molecular clocks speed or slow independent of diapause.



Such tests will clarify whether the pause itself or downstream metabolism drives the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-transfer-longevity-gene-hoping-to-extend-human-lifespan/">longevity</a> dividend.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wasp-study-changes-thinking">Wasp study changes thinking</h2>



From a practical standpoint, the jewel wasp teaches that aging is plastic - modifiable by early environments and perhaps by later interventions that mimic those conditions. 



Slowing an epigenetic clock shows that environmental factors can delay aging in a simple animal relevant to human biology. 



In short, pausing development today could mean a longer tomorrow - not just for jewel wasps, but for the future of aging science.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2513020122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Wasps might hold the secret to slow human aging

Aging is usually viewed as an inexorable march forward -...

Dogs are hardly passive couch potatoes, yet many will pause mid play to glance at a flickering screen. A new survey now puts a number on that gaze, showing the average household dog spends about 14 minutes and 8 seconds each day actually watching television.



The work was led by animal behavior researcher Lane Montgomery of Auburn University, who, with colleagues, asked more than 650 owners to log every tail twitch, bark, or stare during TV time. 



Their final sample of 453 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-puppy-day-2025-where-happiness-meets-responsibility/">dogs</a> formed the backbone of the “Dog Television Viewing Scale” that underpins the study’s findings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-dogs-watch-on-television">What dogs watch on television</h2>



Excitable dogs tracked fast moving objects across the screen with surprising intensity, almost as if the ball or squirrel were zipping across the living room wall. 



Fearful or anxious <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-dogs-actually-judge-people-its-not-as-simple-as-we-thought/">dogs</a>, by contrast, reacted more to non animal cues such as car horns or a recorded doorbell, hinting at a sensitivity to sudden, potentially alarming sounds.



Owners rated each pet’s temperament using standard Positive and Negative Activation Scale (<a href="https://ogg.osu.edu/media/documents/MB%20Stream/PANAS.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PNAS</a>) questions, and high excitement scores neatly aligned with more “follow” behaviors, while high negative activation lined up with responses to inanimate or human noises. 



These links suggest that personality, not breed, age, or sex, best predicts which scenes will grip a given dog.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-dogs-see-television-images">How dogs see television images </h2>



The dog brain can treat a moving two dimensional image as if it were a real object, a skill first demonstrated when pets obeyed commands delivered via video as readily as those given by a live trainer. 



That early <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.0179-1613.2003.00923.x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> set the stage for later work showing dogs anticipate where an on screen ball will re-appear after it rolls behind a barrier, a behavior called “anticipatory looking.”



Those cognitive feats depend on visual hardware that processes images at a higher flicker fusion rate than the human eye, meaning modern high refresh rate TVs finally look smooth to dogs rather than like a strobe. 



Such technical <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0376635716303400?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">details</a> help explain why today’s flat panels engage pets more effectively than the cathode ray tubes of the past, which often appeared flickery to canine viewers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anxious-dogs-and-television-sounds">Anxious dogs and television sounds</h2>



Noise matters at least as much as motion. In a recent survey, only 15 percent of noise sensitive dogs reacted to visuals, but many startled at bangs or whistles piped through the speakers.



Montgomery’s team found a similar pattern: nervous dogs turned their heads when a TV car horn blared, while confident, playful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-dogs-replacing-children-how-modern-society-is-changing/">dogs</a> mostly ignored it. 



The result aligns with clinical observations that sudden, sharp noises are a common trigger for canine anxiety, whether the source is fireworks outside or surround sound inside.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-television-can-calm-shelter-dogs">Television can calm shelter dogs</h2>



Shelters have experimented with television as enrichment, yet results have been mixed because not every dog engages. 



Knowing that high excitement dogs track moving figures could help staff pick programs featuring slow pans for timid residents and gentle motion for energetic ones, maximizing benefit while avoiding overstimulation.



Research on visual enrichment devices shows cortisol levels drop only when the content matches the animal’s interest, so a one size fits all playlist rarely works. 



Tailoring videos to personality profiles derived from the new scale could turn idle screen time into an inexpensive welfare boost for thousands of kenneled dogs each year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tv-made-for-dogs-works-better">TV made for dogs works better</h2>



“DOGTV does that because of the way in which it enriches the space the dogs spend their time,” explained veterinarian David Haworth, a board member for the channel. Specialized networks such as DOGTV already tune colors, frame rates, and sound frequencies to canine preferences.&nbsp;



The new study offers hard data these producers can use, confirming that scenes rich in conspecific calls and clear animal silhouettes elicit the strongest reactions from typical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-may-respond-to-each-other-through-blinking/">pets</a>. 



Conversely, clips heavy on traffic sounds may suit anxious dogs only if the goal is desensitization rather than relaxation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tv-can-help-train-dogs">TV can help train dogs</h2>



Owners trying to curb barking at the screen should first note which stimuli set their dog off, then mute or pause similar cues to prevent rehearsal of the unwanted behavior. 



For excitable dogs that lunge at animated squirrels, distance from the set and cue controlled exposure can teach calm viewing without removing the enrichment entirely.



Trainers also leverage the screen as a controlled setting for practicing impulse control: a paused video of a cat can become the “sit and stay” homework before the action resumes as a reward. 



Because the average daily viewing span is short, two or three focused sessions are usually enough to work on problem responses without overloading the dog.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tv-habits-show-how-dogs-think">TV habits show how dogs think</h2>



Montgomery’s findings may even aid neuroscientists, who rely on video clips in fMRI scanners to probe how dogs perceive faces, objects, and motion. 



Knowing which personalities will stay still for a projected movie could streamline subject selection and improve data quality.



The study also touches on the broader question of picture object recognition, a hot topic in comparative psychology. 



If dogs categorize on screen animals separately from cars, yet still anticipate motion, they might maintain flexible mental models that shift between two and three dimensional contexts with ease.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-06580-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Most dogs will binge-watch TV all day, if given the opportunity

Dogs are hardly passive couch potatoes, yet many will pause...

Sea urchins don’t understand predators the way we do. They have no brains, no hearts - just raw instinct. When a sunflower sea star approaches, they don’t need complex reasoning to sense danger - they simply steer clear.



This is the conclusion of a new study that examined how sunflower sea stars affect sea urchin behavior. The research was conducted by ecologists and undergraduates at the <a href="https://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/">University of California</a>, Santa Cruz.



The team set out to understand whether these massive, many-armed sea stars could help protect kelp forests by simply being present.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sea-stars-create-a-landscape-of-fear">Sea stars create a landscape of fear</h2>



The team from UC Santa Cruz conducted the experiment off the coast of Sitka, Alaska, where local sea urchins have wiped out once-thriving kelp forests, turning them into underwater deserts.



The students, trained in scientific diving through the university’s BIOE 159 Marine Ecology Field Quarter, placed cages on the ocean floor. Some held <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunflower-sea-stars-are-nearly-extinct-but-scientists-are-growing-them/">sunflower sea stars</a> (Pycnopodia helianthoides). Others were left empty. 



Kelp blades were tied near each cage to act as bait. The question was simple: Would sea urchins avoid the kelp if a sunflower sea star was nearby?



After just 24 hours, the answer was clear. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-red-sea-urchins-will-tolerate-climate-change-better-than-others/">Red sea urchins</a> kept their distance - about six feet, on average - from cages containing the sea stars. In contrast, green sea urchins, also present in the area, showed no hesitation and munched through the kelp.



“We show that the sea stars create a ‘landscape of fear’ among red sea urchins in degraded urchin barrens that reduces grazing on kelp,” said Kristy Kroeker, professor of ecology and evolutionary biology at UC Santa Cruz. 



“These are very hungry urchins that are dissuaded enough by the scent of a sea star to deter grazing on kelp forests, which is promising for thinking about their role in kelp-forest recovery.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-kelp-forests-matter">Why kelp forests matter</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/kelp-forests-in-crisis-how-toxic-turf-algae-are-taking-over/">Kelp forests</a> aren’t just scenery. They provide critical shelter and breeding grounds for thousands of marine species, including commercially valuable ones like abalone and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pacific-rockfish-give-clues-about-the-genetic-basis-of-longevity/">rockfish</a>. 



They’re also a financial powerhouse, contributing an estimated $500 billion each year to the global economy. Kelp is used in everything from pharmaceuticals and cosmetics to food products like salad dressings and toothpaste.



But around 2013, something changed. A wasting disease swept through populations of sunflower sea stars, pushing them to local extinction along much of the west coast. 



At the same time, huge sections of kelp forest disappeared, especially in California and Oregon. Since then, neither the sea stars nor the kelp have made a full comeback.



That’s raised big questions. Are sea stars a key part of keeping urchin populations in check? Could bringing them back help kelp forests recover?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-students-led-the-research">Students led the research </h2>



This study didn’t come from a high-budget lab. It came from a hands-on field course that takes students into real-world research environments. 



In past years, the course has brought students to the Gulf of California in Mexico and to Moorea in French Polynesia. This time, they ended up in the chilly waters of Alaska.



“I feel very grateful to have had the privilege of working on this study alongside my peers,” said Rae Mancuso, the study’s lead author. 



“Participating in the entire process, from diving to scientific writing, was exciting and impactful as an undergraduate student. I hope the findings from this field experiment contribute in some way to the restoration of our all-important kelp forests.”



The students worked with faculty to design the experiment and set it up across three locations in urchin-dominated zones. They built pairs of cages, spaced about 60 to 100 feet apart, and monitored the urchin activity closely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sea-stars-scaring-off-sea-urchins">Sea stars scaring off sea urchins </h2>



Although the sea stars only deterred red sea urchins - not the green ones - researchers say it’s a promising lead. Simply putting sea stars in the area (rather than trying to remove urchins by hand) could help restore balance to the ecosystem.



Even better, this strategy might be less labor-intensive than current methods, which often require divers to manually cull urchin populations.



The researchers are also curious whether sunflower sea stars might scare off <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gray-whales-struggle-as-purple-sea-urchins-destroy-kelp-forests/">purple sea urchins</a>, the worst kelp destroyers in California. That part is still unclear.



“My educated guess is that they will deter purple urchin grazing as well, but it’s a question of how much and for how long,” Kroeker said. 



“There are many unknowns that need to be addressed and many steps that need to be taken between our results and the reintroduction of Pycnopodia for kelp-forest recovery.”



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2025.0949">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a>.



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'Terrifying' sea stars could be key to kelp forest recovery

Sea urchins don’t understand predators the way we do. They...

In the dense forests of Central and South America, a strange thing happens. Hundreds of butterfly species - most of them nearly identical in appearance - flutter through the trees, each warning predators that they’re toxic through shared colors and patterns. 



But if the butterflies all look the same, how do they find the right partner to mate with? New research reveals that these butterflies can smell each other. 



Even among species that look nearly identical, each one produces a unique scent. This tiny chemical difference is how they tell each other apart.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetics-of-glasswing-butterflies">Genetics of glasswing butterflies</h2>



The research was conducted by an international team of scientists led by the <a href="https://www.sanger.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wellcome Sanger Institute</a>. 



The team sequenced the genomes of dozens of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-glasswing-butterfly-has-a-unique-type-of-transparency/">glasswing butterfly</a> species - specifically focusing on two groups known for rapidly forming new species.



Glasswing butterflies are not rare. There are more than 400 species across Central and South America, and many live in the same areas. 



These butterflies are often used in conservation as "indicator species" because their presence reflects the health of the broader <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-play-important-roles-in-ecosystems/">insect ecosystem</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lookalike-butterflies-have-a-strategy">Lookalike butterflies have a strategy</h2>



What makes things tricky is that all glasswing butterflies look strikingly alike - and this similarity is no accident. It’s a defense strategy that warns predators they’re poisonous. 



But while this mimicry helps protect them, it poses a serious challenge for scientists trying to identify or monitor them in the wild.



To solve this, the research team mapped the genetics of the butterflies. In doing so, they discovered six subspecies were actually distinct enough to count as separate species. 



The experts also produced ten high-quality reference genomes now freely available to the research community.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scent-matters-for-glasswing-butterflies">Scent matters for glasswing butterflies </h2>



One major discovery: even butterflies that look the same can still recognize their own species through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/false-widow-spiders-use-pheromones-to-manipulate-mates/">pheromones</a> - chemicals they release to communicate through smell.



This matters a lot for mating. Because many of these butterflies have gone through a process called rapid radiation - where lots of new species evolve in a short period - they’re often closely related. 



Visually, the butterflies are often indistinguishable. But smelling different? That’s a game-changer.



“Having the reference genomes for the two groups of glasswing butterflies, Mechanitis and Melinaea, allowed us to take a closer look at how they have adapted to life in such close proximity to their relatives,” said study senior author Dr. Caroline Bacquet.



“These butterflies share the responsibility of warding off predators by displaying similar color patterns, and by producing different pheromones they can successfully find mates and reproduce."



"Now that we have clarity on glasswing butterfly species, we can look for specific markings or differences between them, giving new ways to track them during fieldwork.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-butterflies-that-evolve-quickly">Butterflies that evolve quickly </h2>



The team also uncovered something surprising in the butterflies’ DNA. Most butterflies have 31 chromosomes, but in glasswing species, that number varied from 13 to 28. 



The genes were mostly the same, but they were rearranged in different ways - a phenomenon called chromosomal rearrangement. These rearrangements aren’t just quirky genetic facts. They affect reproduction.



When butterflies with mismatched chromosome arrangements try to reproduce, their offspring are sterile. That means mating with the wrong species is a dead end. So, the butterflies have evolved to rely on pheromones as a way to ensure they choose the right partner.



Scientists think this high level of chromosomal rearrangement might be a key reason why these butterflies evolve into new species so quickly. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-lookalike-butterflies">Protecting lookalike butterflies </h2>



Once a population’s chromosome count shifts, it effectively becomes its own species, better able to adapt to local environments or food sources.



“Glasswing butterflies are an incredibly adaptive group of insects that have been valuable in ecology research for around 150 years,” said Dr. Eva van der Heijden, first author of the study.



“However, until now, there was no genetic resource that allowed us to robustly identify different species, and it is difficult to monitor and track something that you can’t identify easily." 



"With this new genetically informed evolutionary tree, and multiple new reference genomes, we hope that it will be possible to advance biodiversity and conservation research around the world, and help protect the butterflies and other insects that are crucial to many of Earth’s ecosystems.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-how-new-species-evolve">Understanding how new species evolve </h2>



Understanding how these lookalike butterflies evolved - and continue to evolve - could help scientists tackle broader questions. 



Why do some insects branch into many species while others don’t? How do environmental pressures drive rapid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quick-species-adaptability-shapes-long-term-evolution/">adaptation</a>? And can this knowledge help us in agriculture or pest control?



Dr. Joana Meier, senior author at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, warned that we are in the middle of an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-were-likely-the-leading-cause-of-megafauna-extinctions/">extinction</a> crisis and understanding how new species evolve, and evolve quickly in some cases, is important for preserving species. 



"Comparing butterflies that rapidly form new species to others that do not could benchmark how common this is in insects and highlight the factors involved," said Dr. Meier.



"This, in turn, could identify any species that require closer conservation and possibly identify genes that are important in the adaptation process and might have uses in agriculture, medicine, or bioengineering. 



"This research would not have been possible without global collaboration. We have one planet, and we must work together to understand and protect it.”



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2410939122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Lookalike butterflies use hidden cues to identify each other

In the dense forests of Central and South America, a...

Touch is the oldest language of bonding. From a parent cradling an infant to grooming among primates, pleasant tactile stimulation sparks attachment across the animal kingdom.



A new study pushes that insight a step further, showing that the same principle can cross species lines: young <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rats-have-a-very-complex-social-life/">rats</a> repeatedly “tickled” by human fingers start to seek out those hands, and their brains rewire to make the contact feel rewarding.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rats-laugh-during-rough-play">Rats laugh during rough play</h2>



Juvenile rats love rough‑and‑tumble play. When they tussle, they emit rapid bursts of ultrasonic calls around 50 kHz - inaudible to us but easy to pick up with microphones. Neuroscientists interpret these chirps as a sign of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/finding-joy-again-new-therapy-eases-opioid-cravings/">joy</a>.



Earlier work showed that rats produce the same 50 kHz giggles when a person lightly strokes and flips them, imitating play wrestling. With enough sessions, the animals begin to follow the experimenter’s hand, eager for more.



In the new research, a team led by Dr. Himeka Hayashi and Professor Hirotaka Sakamoto from <a href="https://www.okayama-u.ac.jp/index_e.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Okayama University</a> tickled adolescent rats for five minutes twice a day over ten days.



At first, the animals chirped only occasionally, but starting on day five, they consistently produced such vocalizations in response to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/after-centuries-of-debate-we-still-dont-know-how-tickling-works/">tickling</a>. By day ten the calls poured out, clear evidence that repeated touch felt good.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preference-grows-for-human-touch">Preference grows for human touch</h2>



After the training, the scientists ran a conditioned place preference test. Each rat could roam between two chambers, one linked to tickling in earlier sessions and one neutral. 



The animals spent a larger amount of time in the tickling room after the test as compared to before, a behavioral sign that they now preferred the place associated with human hands.



The finding delighted the researchers on a personal level. “We have always been curious about how humans and animals can form bonds despite having no shared language or lifestyle,” Hayashi said.



“We wondered whether the connection we felt with animals was real or just our imagination. Through this study, we discovered that rats genuinely enjoy interacting with us - which brought us great happiness.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-touch-and-human-animal-bonding">Touch and human-animal bonding</h2>



Pleasure alone was only half the story. The researchers also wanted to see what changed inside the brain. They focused on the ventrolateral part of the ventromedial hypothalamus, or VMHvl, a region already linked to social behaviors in rodents.



After the ten‑day regimen the rats showed increased expression of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oxytocin-is-crucial-beyond-its-role-as-the-love-hormone/">oxytocin</a> receptors in that hub. Oxytocin, often called the bonding hormone, surges during maternal care, pair bonding, and even friendly hugs in humans.



To test cause and effect, the scientists blocked oxytocin signaling specifically in the VMHvl. The result was striking. Without that chemical handshake, the rats’ new fondness for human touch faded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-touch-connects-hormone-to-behavior">Touch connects hormone to behavior</h2>



Where does the oxytocin come from? Using neural tracing techniques, the team followed fibers leading into the VMHvl and identified a subset that starts in the supraoptic nucleus, a part of the brain that houses magnocellular neurons known for pumping out oxytocin.



Those long projections suggest a direct anatomical route by which tactile joy travels from a high‑level hormone center to the limbic machinery that tags experiences as good or bad.



“We revealed part of the neural circuitry underlying why naturally wary animals become attached to humans,” Hayashi explained.



“We discovered that during the process of rats becoming tame to human hands, the action of oxytocin in a specific brain region (VMHvl) mediates the effects of pleasant tactile stimulation and controls the formation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-bonds-drive-learning-in-monkeys-and-humans-alike/">social bonds</a> across species.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-animal-bonding-beyond-rats">Human-animal bonding beyond rats</h2>



Most companion‑animal owners sense that stroking a cat or dog soothes both parties. The new results give that intuition a mechanistic footing and hint at therapeutic spin‑offs.



“The discovery that pleasant tactile stimulation facilitates cross‑species social bonding could lead to a better understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying both social interaction difficulties and the therapeutic effects of physical contact with animals such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cats-have-become-one-of-the-worlds-most-invasive-predators/">cats</a> and dogs,” Hayashi said.



“This knowledge may contribute to the development of novel therapeutic and support approaches for individuals who struggle with social interactions.”



Nearly 150 years after Darwin wondered how new social ties emerge, the answer for rats and humans appears remarkably simple: persistent, playful touch tunes the same ancient hormone system that once glued mothers to pups.



Unlocking that circuit not only turns skittish rodents into willing partners but may also open doors to treatments that use controlled touch to ease loneliness and boost social confidence in people.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(25)00650-5?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS0960982225006505%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Tickled rats reveal how human-animal bonds form in the brain

Touch is the oldest language of bonding. From a parent...

A seahorse species found only on Australia’s east coast is at the heart of a quiet conservation project in Sydney Harbor. 



White’s seahorse is shy, delicate, and now one of the only seahorse species in the world officially listed as endangered. One major reason? Its home is disappearing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-disappearing-seagrass-meadow">A disappearing seagrass meadow</h2>



Researchers from <a href="https://www.unswcollege.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNSW Sydney</a> have found that one of the seahorse’s key habitats, a native seagrass called <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-largest-plant-found-in-western-australia/">Posidonia australis</a>, has nearly vanished from Sydney’s coastline. 



Urban expansion, pollution, dredging, and boat traffic have all played a role in wiping out these once-extensive meadows over the past 50 years.



“As the seagrass meadows disappear, so too do the species that depend on them,” said Professor Adriana Vergés. She's part of the Greener Pastures conservation project, and a lead figure in Operation Posidonia and Project Restore - both focused on bringing life back to the harbor.



“There is minimal Posidonia remaining in Sydney Harbor,” noted Professor Vergés. “Historically, these meadows were extensive but coastal development and physical disturbances have wiped much of them out." 



"We predict Posidonia will be locally extinct from Sydney Harbor within the next couple of decades unless we do something about it.”



These meadows aren’t just pretty patches of greenery. They play a key role in keeping the shoreline stable, stopping erosion, storing carbon, and giving marine species places to feed and breed.



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



Seahorses don’t swim like most fish. They float upright and use their prehensile tails to grip seagrass leaves, coral, or sponges. It’s how they stay put when the currents get strong.



“With the Greener Pastures project, we are aiming to tackle one of the root causes of the decline in White's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seahorse-smuggling-exposed-millions-seized-over-a-decade/">seahorse populations</a>, which is the loss of habitat,” said Professor Vergés. “We can breed and release them, but unless we restore their homes, their populations will keep falling.”



That message is echoed by Mitchell Brennan, program manager of the Sydney Seahorse Project and a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Technology Sydney.



“To hold on to that habitat is critically important,” said Brennan. “Seahorses rely on highly complex habitats like seagrass meadows to camouflage, anchor and feed.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inspiration-for-seahorse-hotels">Inspiration for seahorse hotels</h2>



However, rebuilding a seagrass meadow isn’t something you can do overnight. While the grass grows, scientists have found a clever way to support the seahorses: hotels.



The idea was first introduced by Dr. David Harasti from the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. 



He was inspired by old crab traps that were covered in marine life and designed steel mesh cages - about a meter wide - to mimic the complex tangle of a natural underwater <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/overfishing-and-habitat-degradation-have-devastated-marine-ecosystems/">habitat</a>.



“When left on the seafloor these bespoke hotels soon become encrusted with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-sponges-play-a-critical-role-in-the-ocean-and-they-are-rapidly-vanishing/">sponges</a>, corals and algae,” explained Dr. Harasti.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-safe-zones-for-seahorses">Safe zones for seahorses</h2>



Each cage turns into a safe zone for seahorses. The encrusted material offers camouflage, food, and places to hold onto. Soon, the seahorses start showing up. According to Dr. Harasti, the seahorses move in within three to six months.



At Cobblers Beach, a major site for the project, 15 seahorse hotels were placed next to existing patches of Posidonia in late 2023. Additional seagrass shoots were transplanted shortly after. 



Early surveys showed up to eight seahorses. By 2024, there were 12 - including juveniles likely born on-site.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-dads-give-birth">When dads give birth</h2>



Seahorses are unusual in more ways than one. One of the most fascinating things about them? It’s the males who <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pregnant-male-seahorses-transport-nutrients-to-their-babies/">give birth</a>.



“We've seen multiple pregnant males and partners on the seahorse hotels in the past six months,” said Brennan. “With some of these juveniles being sighted, hopefully the population starts to grow and become stronger and more self-sustaining.”



The hotels may also be helping the newly planted Posidonia itself. Their structure offers protection from waves and shifting sand, giving the delicate grass a better chance to take hold. And as the habitat improves, other species are returning too.



“In areas where we've replanted seagrass, we're already seeing more fish - snapper, flathead, bream and even pajama squid,” said Brennan. "It’s about restoring the function of the whole system.”



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



While the science behind Greener Pastures is solid, its heart comes from community involvement.



“This all started when Operation Posidonia received a grant from the Environmental Trust and support from Mosman Council,” said Professor Vergés. 



“The local community is incredibly engaged. They're not just helping us plant seagrass - they're also learning why it matters and sharing this information with their friends and neighbors.”



From the early days of the project in Port Stephens, volunteers have helped collect thousands of loose Posidonia shoots from storm events. Those shoots are then replanted into damaged meadows.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-people-with-ecosystems">Connecting people with ecosystems </h2>



“Hands-on restoration helps people connect with ecosystems they might never have known about,” said Professor Vergés. 



“When people become part of the process, they gain a sense of ownership - that’s where real stewardship begins. You can't protect what you don't know exists.”



Her goal for the next decade is simple: recovery - for both the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-plays-a-major-role-in-global-carbon-storage/">seagrass</a> meadows and the seahorses that depend on them.



“I'd like to see a growing population of White's seahorse occupying this habitat - both of them recovering together.”



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How ‘seahorse hotels’ are reviving an endangered species

A seahorse species found only on Australia’s east coast is...

Red-footed tortoises may have more complex mood patterns than we thought. A new study by the University of Lincoln reveals that these reptiles can experience long-lasting emotional states. 



Scientists who specialize in animal cognition now believe red-footed tortoises show mood-linked behaviors and signs of subjectivity once thought unique to birds and mammals.



The research opens a new chapter in how we understand <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grumpy-tortoise-reptiles-can-experience-mood-swings-too/">reptile</a> minds. It points to long-term mood states, not just momentary reactions. 



If tortoises can experience optimism and pessimism, it challenges deep-rooted beliefs about reptile sentience. This could reshape how we care for them, especially in captivity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotions-and-moods-among-animals">Emotions and moods among animals</h2>



Emotions are short-term reactions tied to specific events. Moods are long-term and independent of immediate context. 



Moods reflect ongoing internal states that shape how animals process the world. Evidence of mood in a species supports the idea that it has the capacity for sentience.



Affective states, which include both emotions and moods, likely evolved because they help animals avoid harm and seek valuable resources. These states also influence how animals learn and make decisions. If an animal is distressed, it may perform poorly in cognitive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turtles-may-hold-the-secret-to-cancer-prevention/">tasks</a>. 



When supported socially or placed in comfortable environments, its performance improves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-tortoise-moods-were-tested">How tortoise moods were tested</h2>



The researchers tested 15 red-footed tortoises using a cognitive bias task. The tortoises learned to associate one location with food and another with no reward. 



Then, the food bowl was placed in ambiguous positions between those two points. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-turtle-day-protecting-turtles-tortoises-and-their-vanishing-habitats/">Tortoises</a> that approached uncertain bowls quickly were seen as optimistic.



The team also assessed the tortoises' behavior in response to new objects and environments. Confident tortoises moved quickly and extended their heads more. This head extension is a known indicator of emotional state in tortoises.



Importantly, the study showed that tortoises were not simply fast or slow movers. Their response times varied depending on their perception of ambiguity. This means their decisions reflected internal states, not random behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-optimism-predicts-lower-anxiety">Optimism predicts lower anxiety</h2>



The results showed a clear link between optimism and reduced anxiety. Tortoises that judged ambiguous cues as positive also showed relaxed behavior in stressful settings. Those with more pessimistic judgments showed hesitancy and limited head extension.



This link mirrors findings in mammals and birds. It suggests tortoises may share an emotional architecture that is much older in evolutionary terms than previously believed.



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



Sentience is not just a scientific question. It affects how laws treat <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turtle-heads-reveal-an-ancient-reptilian-secret/">animals</a>. In the UK, the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act 2022 recognizes animals’ ability to feel. This study supports the idea that reptiles should fall under such protections.



“Animal welfare concerns are reliant upon evidence that a given species has the capacity to experience affective states," noted Anna Wilkinson, a professor of animal cognition.



"With reptiles becoming increasingly common as pets, it is essential for us to study their moods and emotions to try to understand how captivity may impact them."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-reptile-emotions">Understanding reptile emotions</h2>



The study suggests that reptiles may have a richer emotional life than once believed. While they might not show all the emotional responses seen in mammals - like strong reactions to disappointment - they still seek pleasure, value rewards, and benefit from stimulating environments.



“This is an exciting finding that represents a significant shift in our understanding of what reptiles can experience, with important implications for how we care for these animals in captivity and interact with them in the wild,” said Oliver Burman, professor of animal behavior and welfare at the <a href="https://www.lincoln.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Lincoln</a>.



This research offers two important takeaways. First, tortoises can experience moods, not just emotions. 



Second, cognitive bias tasks and behavioral anxiety tests are valid tools for studying mood in reptiles. Their responses in different contexts indicate that affective states in reptiles are real, measurable, and meaningful.



The study urges us to rethink how we house and care for reptiles. Enriched environments and opportunities for exploration can support their well-being. Recognizing their capacity for mood could also inspire more compassionate treatment.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10071-025-01973-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Animal Cognition</a>.



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Tortoises have feelings - and they get stuck in bad moods

Red-footed tortoises may have more complex mood patterns than we...

Every year on July 29, International Tiger Day highlights a critical conservation challenge: saving one of the world’s most endangered predators. 



The celebration began in 2010 at the <a href="https://globaltigerforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/st_petersburg_declaration_english.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit</a>, with an ambitious goal - double the number of wild tigers. In 2025, India stands out for turning this vision into reality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-india-s-tigers-are-making-a-comeback">India’s tigers are making a comeback</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indias-wild-tigers-are-thriving-with-smart-conservation-efforts/">India</a> is now home to an estimated 3,700 wild tigers - about 75 percent of the global population. That’s a 30 percent increase in just two decades. 



Unlike regions where tigers continue to vanish, India’s tiger population is growing despite major pressures from rapid development and population growth. 



This recovery didn’t happen by accident. India blended science, policy, and culture. While government programs protected land and wildlife, public support grew from a shared respect for the tiger, which holds deep spiritual meaning across many Indian communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tiger-conservation-efforts-across-india">Tiger conservation efforts across India </h2>



India’s approach is unique. Instead of relying solely on national parks and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-tiger-day-worldwide-support-for-tiger-conservation/">wildlife</a> sanctuaries, the country uses a two-pronged strategy: secure reserves for breeding and open landscapes where tigers and humans coexist. These multi-use areas are not just tolerated - they are part of the plan.



Tigers often roam beyond park borders. In India, that’s expected. Protected zones serve as safe spaces, but it’s the surrounding human-inhabited lands that help connect tiger habitats and reduce isolation. This system gives conservation room to work in real-world conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-living-with-tigers">Living with tigers</h2>



In the United States, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-day-2025-a-global-call-to-protect-nature/">wildlife</a> and people tend to live apart. But in India, around 60 million people live in tiger zones. Surprisingly, many accept this risk.



Why? Because it works both ways. Farmers receive government payments if a tiger kills livestock. Communities near reserves benefit from eco-tourism jobs. Schools teach kids about wildlife safety and respect.



These efforts turn potential conflict into shared purpose. Tigers are not just seen as threats. They are part of the neighborhood. This level of public engagement is rare - and it’s working.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tech-and-volunteers-on-the-frontlines">Tech and volunteers on the frontlines</h2>



India uses modern tools like GPS-based monitoring systems to track tiger movement. In areas like Uttar Pradesh, volunteers called “Bagh Mitras” (Tiger Friends) help local authorities respond quickly when tigers wander near villages. 



These efforts aim to ease fear, prevent clashes, and keep communities engaged in tiger conservation.



In regions like Pilibhit and Dudhwa, tracking measures have directly supported <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/could-captive-tigers-help-restore-wild-populations/">population</a> growth. It’s conservation that runs on both high-tech tools and grassroots cooperation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-regions-still-struggle">Some regions still struggle</h2>



Success is not universal. In parts of rural India affected by poverty or civil unrest, tiger numbers remain low. 



Many people rely on forests for firewood, food, and grazing. As land use changes and resources shrink, competition between humans and wildlife increases.



Armed conflict also affects conservation. In areas hit by internal conflict, government presence weakens. This allows poaching and illegal logging to rise. Without stability, conservation falters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-safety-and-protection">Balancing safety and protection</h2>



Despite their fearsome reputation, tigers rarely attack humans. In India, tiger encounters cause around 100 deaths each year, and affected families receive compensation. 



Tigers that pose repeated threats are moved to reserves or zoos. This approach helps protect both people and wildlife, showing how a clear response can build trust and prevent backlash - key to long-term conservation success.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-international-tiger-day-offers-lessons">International Tiger Day offers lessons</h2>



India’s model offers lessons for other countries, including the United States. In places like the Northern Rockies, debates continue about wolves, grizzlies, and ranching. 



The U.S. often draws firm lines between human activity and wildlife protection. India shows that there is another way.



“In the past, foraging in the forest was sustainable. But now, with more people and less space for tigers, conflicts are increasing,” said Professor Ninad Mungi of <a href="https://international.au.dk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aarhus University</a>. 



In both India and the West, true success may depend on how well people share space with large carnivores - safely and sustainably.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-celebrating-conservation-across-india">Celebrating conservation across India</h2>



On International Tiger Day, events take place across India. Reserves host educational programs. Forest workers and wildlife rescuers are honored. 



In states like Jharkhand, new eco-tourism ideas are being tested. Cities like Kolkata and Lucknow run awareness campaigns in schools and parks.



These public celebrations are more than just symbolic. They help build long-term support for conservation - something the US also values in its National Park outreach and wildlife festivals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-honoring-international-tiger-day-2025">Honoring International Tiger Day 2025</h2>



International Tiger Day 2025 reminds us that saving predators is possible - even in crowded, complex societies. 



India’s journey shows that coexistence, when planned well, can succeed. Cultural respect, government support, and community involvement form a powerful alliance.



As the world faces climate change, habitat loss, and biodiversity decline, India’s experience offers more than a story of national pride. It offers a model the rest of the world may want to study closely.



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International Tiger Day 2025: Coexistence is possible

Every year on July 29, International Tiger Day highlights a critical...

About half of the dogs in the United States are overweight. That might not surprise you if your pup constantly begs for treats. But the reasons behind canine obesity go deeper than a dog’s appetite.



A recent study by scientists at <a href="https://www.tamu.edu/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Texas A&amp;M University</a>, in collaboration with the Dog Aging Project, points to a more complicated picture.



The study suggests that dog obesity is shaped by a complex mix of factors including breed, living environment, food motivation, and whether it’s the owner or the veterinarian who recognizes the issue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breed-influences-dog-obesity-risk">Breed influences dog obesity risk</h2>



The researchers looked at data from dog owners and veterinarians, using survey responses and medical records to track patterns in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canine-personality-traits-are-not-strongly-influenced-by-breed/">canine</a> weight. One major takeaway: breed groups matter.



Dogs from active breed groups - like retrievers, spaniels, and setters - were about 10% more likely to have a strong drive for food than other dogs.



“Our study confirmed that dogs in the sporting group - which in our study group were largely Labrador retrievers and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/golden-retrievers-and-all-dog-breeds-will-live-longer-lives-thanks-to-science/">Golden retrievers</a> - have a greater likelihood to have high food motivation,” said Dr. Kate Creevy, Dog Aging Project chief veterinary officer. 



“Given that these are two of the most common breeds in the U.S., it is vital that both veterinarians and dog owners understand the diet management strategies necessary for achieving a healthy weight.”



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



The study didn’t just stop at breed. Where a dog lives - and who it lives with - matters too. Dogs in urban areas and those in multi-dog homes were also more likely to have higher food motivation.



“It’s likely that these factors influence the amount of exercise that dogs get in addition to their access to food,” Creevy said. “Some dogs may seek food out of boredom, which may increase in environments where exercise and enrichment are less available." 



"Additionally, owners with multiple dogs may choose certain feeding practices - including free feeding - out of convenience, which can lead to more food being available.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-and-managing-a-dog-s-weight">Tracking and managing a dog's weight</h2>



Interestingly, the team also found that owners were more likely to watch their dog’s weight if they personally believed their dog was overweight. But if a vet noticed the weight issue and the owner didn’t, the owner was less likely to take action.



This disconnect might come down to a lack of familiarity with body condition scores (BCS) - a common tool vets use to assess fat accumulation in dogs.



“A BCS plays a key role in helping veterinarians communicate with owners about their dog’s weight, which is why we need to continue increasing use of these scores,” Creevy said. 



“Studies have shown that owners of dogs that are active in sports are more likely to know how to assess BCS, which suggests that owner motivation may play a role in learning how to apply BCS to help their dogs maintain a healthy weight.”



Even though it is standard practice, the study found that about a third of vet records didn’t include a BCS in the past year. That missing data can make it harder to track and manage a dog’s weight effectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-losing-weight-is-hard-even-for-dogs">Losing weight is hard - even for dogs</h2>



Knowing a dog is overweight is one thing. Helping them slim down is another. According to Creevy, previous research has shown that weight loss interventions for dogs are not always successful, especially if they’re not followed consistently.



“Sometimes there are issues in communication between the veterinarian and the owner, and given what we learned from this study, it’s also possible that some breeds require even stricter feeding practices," noted Creevy.



Weight loss plans that aren’t tailored or consistently followed can easily fall apart. That’s why expert guidance - and a plan that works for both the dog and the owner - is key.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-obese-dogs">Protecting obese dogs</h2>



If you think your dog may be overweight, the best step is to talk to an expert. A veterinarian can assess your dog’s body condition, suggest feeding guidelines, and help you create an exercise routine that makes sense for your pet.



“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/probiotics-help-overweight-dogs-shed-pounds/">Overweight dogs</a> are prone to numerous health problems, including skin disease, diabetes, and arthritis,” Creevy said. 



“It is imperative that veterinarians develop a better understanding of canine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-and-dogs-share-genes-linked-to-obesity/">obesity</a> and whether it may be linked to social, environmental, or demographic factors so that we can give every dog the best possible quality of life.”



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/ajvr/86/5/ajvr.24.11.0358.xml">American Journal of Veterinary Research</a>.



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Why are so many dogs obese? A new study reveals the truth

About half of the dogs in the United States are...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE
</div></figure>



On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop and sunlight barely penetrates through the polar winter. It was here, however, that an international team of scientists found <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predatory-worms-were-terror-beasts-half-a-billion-years-ago/#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evidence of sea monsters</a> that would change our understanding of ocean life in the past.



This video captures the discovery of Timorebestia fossils that had been hidden for more than 500 million years in the Sirius Passet formation. The "terror beasts," as they are called, are a hidden chapter in the evolutionary history of <a href="https://www.earth.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a>, showing that sophisticated predator-prey interactions occurred much earlier than previously envisioned.



Dr. Jakob Vinther and his research team at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>, in collaboration with researchers at the <a href="https://eng.kopri.re.kr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Korean Polar Research Institute</a>, braved extreme weather conditions at 82.5 north latitude to locate these giant creatures. Using sophisticated electron microprobe analysis, they revealed the detailed anatomy of the animals, including their muscle and nerve tissues.



The find upsets the traditional timeline of sea predators. Although we've long appreciated that Cambrian oceans were at one time ruled by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWI3-UgA3_o&amp;list=PL1QLQMW9MWDwpkFOnvgAmu7wT6rZmYqdJ&amp;index=19" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arthropods</a>, these discoveries indicate that relatives of arrow worms were first to dominate the seas. These worms were building sophisticated food webs several million years before other predator groups arose.



Each fossil is a story of ancient hunger, with fossil stomach contents revealing these meter-long beasts dined on heavily armored arthropods regularly, cementing their place as the ocean's first apex predators.



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">New York is the site of the world's oldest forest.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-385-million-year-old-trees-discovered">385-million-year-old trees discovered</h2>



Scientists have uncovered something extraordinary just two hours north of New York City. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-oldest-forest-discovered-close-to-new-york-city/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">world's oldest forest</a>, dating back 385 million years, offers a window into how Earth's first complex forests shaped our planet's atmosphere.



Located near <a href="https://townofcairo.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cairo, New York</a>, in Greene County, these weren't merely primitive plants struggling to survive. These were sophisticated trees with root systems remarkably similar to modern forests. This ancient woodland predates dinosaurs by 140 million years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cairo-forest-discovery">The Cairo forest discovery</h2>



385 million years ago, upstate New York was a tropical paradise near the equator. Thanks to continental drift, this ancient forest has traveled thousands of miles to its current location.



The fossil forest sits in an abandoned quarry, roughly half the size of a football field. This represents just a slice of what was likely a massive forest system stretching from New York into Pennsylvania.



Charles Ver Straeten, curator of sedimentary rocks at the <a href="https://www.nysm.nysed.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York State Museum</a>, made the discovery in 2009. While scouting the former highway department property, his trained eye spotted wandering patterns in the stone that looked like marine features.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionary-age-and-preservation">Revolutionary age and preservation</h2>



The site contains 385-million-year-old rocks with fossilized woody roots forming horizontal patterns up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) wide. As Christopher Berry, a paleobotanist at Cardiff University, explains: "You are walking through the roots of ancient trees."



This discovery pushes back advanced tree evolution by millions of years. The research, published in <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a> in December 2019, fundamentally changes our understanding of when complex forests first emerged.



Researchers believe a massive flood buried the forest floor, creating perfect fossilization conditions. Over millions of years, sediment hardened into rock, preserving these root patterns like nature's time capsule.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-archaeopteris-the-first-modern-tree">Meet Archaeopteris: the first modern tree</h2>



The star of this ancient forest is Archaeopteris – not to be confused with the feathered dinosaur Archaeopteryx. This tree was far older and more revolutionary.



William Stein from <a href="https://www.binghamton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Binghamton University</a> describes the roots as "strikingly modern, essentially what you'd see outside in my yard right now." These weren't simple root systems you'd expect from ancient plants.



Some fossilized roots are six inches (15 centimeters) in diameter, forming 36-foot-wide (11-meter) patterns. These giants grew up to 65 feet (20 meters) tall with five-foot-diameter (1.5-meter) trunks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-changing-impact">Climate-changing impact</h2>



These trees fundamentally changed Earth's environment. Kevin Boyce, a Stanford University geoscientist, explains how their deep roots triggered "weathering," chemical reactions that pulled carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.



This process dropped atmospheric CO2 levels from 10-15 times higher than today to roughly modern concentrations. These ancient trees helped create atmospheric conditions that made complex life possible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-forest-ecosystem">Ancient forest ecosystem</h2>



The forest was remarkably diverse. Scientists identified Eospermatopteris, palm tree-like plants with short roots that reached 30 feet (9 meters) tall but lacked woody structure. The forest also housed cladoxylopsids and a mysterious third species still being studied.



All reproduced through spores rather than seeds – millions of years before seeds evolved. This tropical environment had no grass, flowers, or flying insects, just towering trees creating Earth's first complex forest canopy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-significance">Scientific significance</h2>



Before this finding, the Gilboa forest, located 25 miles (40 kilometers) away, held the "oldest forest" title. Cairo's trees are 2-3 million years older, showing that complex forest ecosystems developed much faster than scientists believed possible.



Patricia Gensel, a <a href="https://www.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Carolina</a> paleobotanist, notes: "The size of those root systems is really changing the picture. Even 20 years ago, researchers assumed trees with such complex root systems didn't evolve so early."



The Cairo site presents three unique root systems, suggesting Devonian period forests were diverse ecosystems with different trees occupying different environmental niches, much like today's forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-preservation-efforts">Modern preservation efforts</h2>



In 2022, New York State Senator Michelle Hinchey secured a $170,000 grant for the town of Cairo to construct specialized fencing around the fossil forest site. The town plans to conduct a feasibility study exploring the possibility of creating an educational center and working lab on-site.



Joe Hasenkopf, chair of the Cairo Planning Board, hopes to partner with educational institutions to create a research facility serving scientists, students, and the public.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-for-today-s-climate">Lessons for today's climate</h2>



Why does a 385-million-year-old forest matter today? It shows how dramatically forests can change Earth's climate. These ancient woodlands created the atmospheric conditions supporting complex life.



Understanding how prehistoric forests transformed the planet helps us appreciate modern forests' critical role in addressing climate change. Forests remain Earth's most effective carbon capture systems.



These prehistoric trees changed Earth's atmosphere by pulling massive amounts of carbon dioxide from the air. As we face modern climate challenges, this ancient forest reminds us of trees' incredible power to transform our planet's environment.



The next time you walk through a forest, remember you're experiencing an ecosystem whose blueprint was established 385 million years ago in upstate New York. These ancient pioneers didn't just survive – they thrived and changed the world forever.



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ New York is the site of the world's oldest...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Acid rain and a crisis solved.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-don-t-we-ever-hear-about-acid-rain-anymore-the-environmental-crisis-that-was-solved">Why don't we ever hear about "acid rain" anymore? The environmental crisis that was solved</h2>



Remember the 1980s when acid rain dominated headlines? Dire warnings about rain eating buildings, killing fish, and destroying forests filled every news cycle. Then, almost like magic, acid rain vanished from public discourse. What happened? Did we actually solve one of the late 20th century's most pressing environmental challenges?



The answer might surprise you. Unlike many environmental issues that drag on indefinitely, acid rain represents one of modern history's most successful ecological recovery stories. It's a tale of science, politics, and technology working together to tackle what seemed impossible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What was acid rain?</h2>



Acid rain isn't regular rain having a bad day – it's precipitation that became significantly more acidic due to air pollution. When power plants, factories, and vehicles burn fossil fuels, they release sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The science behind it</h2>



Think of acid rain as nature's chemistry experiment gone wrong. These compounds react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form sulfuric and nitric acids. When mixed with water vapor in clouds, they create precipitation with dangerously low pH levels.



While clean rain has a pH of about 5.6, acid rain could drop as low as 4.2 to 4.4 – roughly as acidic as tomato juice or coffee. According to US Geological Survey documentation, Scottish chemist Angus Smith first coined "acid rain" in 1872, but it didn't become a household phrase until the 1960s and 1970s when Swedish scientist Svante Odén documented its devastating effects on Scandinavian lakes and European forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The crisis at its peak</h2>



During the height of public concern, environmental damage was both widespread and visible. This wasn't some abstract future threat – people could see destruction happening in real-time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Environmental devastation</h2>



The most dramatic impacts were impossible to ignore. Research documented by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation shows that in the Adirondack Mountains, more than 200 lakes became so acidic they couldn't support fish life. The Adirondack Council reports that 409 lakes once supported brook trout, but many lost their fish populations due to acid rain.



By 1976, when scientists cataloged all acidified lakes in the Adirondack Park, researchers found that half of the lakes over 2,000 feet above sea level had no fish, according to studies published in environmental journals. The acidification process worked like a slow-motion disaster. As acid rain fell into watersheds, it gradually lowered pH levels. Fish couldn't survive in acidic water, and their food sources died off too.



Trees at high elevations showed stress directly linked to acid rain. It weakened them by leaching nutrients and making them susceptible to disease. Historical records show Germany's Black Forest saw nearly half its trees damaged by the mid-1980s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Economic impact</h2>



Acid rain wasn't just environmental – it was expensive. Acidic precipitation corroded infrastructure, buildings, and monuments. Historic stone structures deteriorated at accelerated rates. Tourism suffered as lakes became fishless and forests declined. EPA economic analyses from the period documented repair costs mounting into billions annually.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The solution: government action and technology</h2>



Transformation from crisis to success required unprecedented cooperation between governments, industries, and environmental groups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Clean Air Act of 1990</h2>



The turning point came with the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, signed by President George H.W. Bush. This represented a fundamentally new approach to environmental regulation, as documented in EPA historical records.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cap-and-trade success</h2>



Instead of mandating specific technologies, the 1990 amendments introduced something revolutionary: a cap-and-trade system for sulfur dioxide emissions. EPA program documentation shows this market-based approach set overall limits but allowed companies to trade emission allowances.



The genius was harnessing market forces to find cost-effective pollution reduction. Companies reducing emissions cheaply could sell excess allowances to those facing higher costs. Research published in environmental economics journals and EPA progress reports shows this resulted in dramatic SO2 reduction at a fraction of projected costs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Technology advances</h2>



Policy provided the framework, but technology made reductions possible. Studies in atmospheric science journals document the widespread adoption of flue gas desulfurization systems ("scrubbers") that removed sulfur dioxide before it reached the atmosphere. By the 2000s, new installations could remove over 95% of SO2 emissions, according to EPA technical reports.



The push coincided with cleaner energy development. Natural gas produces fewer sulfur compounds than coal. Wind and solar, emerging in the 1990s, captured growing market share, reducing reliance on high-sulfur coal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-we-don-t-hear-about-it-today">Why we don't hear about it today</h2>



Why did acid rain disappear from headlines? Simple: the problem was largely solved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Success doesn't make news</h2>



There's an old journalism saying: "If it bleeds, it leads." Environmental success stories don't generate urgency like crisis reporting. Media attention shifted to other challenges: climate change, plastic pollution, and biodiversity loss. There's only so much environmental anxiety the public can absorb, and newer concerns replaced acid rain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mission accomplished</h2>



The primary reason is beautifully simple: interventions worked. EPA monitoring data shows sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990. Academic research published in environmental science journals confirms pH levels in formerly affected areas returned closer to normal. This represents one of history's most dramatic environmental recoveries. Studies by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation show fishless lakes now support healthy populations. Forests recovered, and building damage slowed dramatically.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-it-really-gone">Is it really gone?</h2>



The crisis is largely resolved, but monitoring data shows the problem isn't completely eliminated – it's managed to acceptable levels. Some areas still experience occasional events during high pollution periods. International environmental research indicates that rapidly industrializing Asian countries face similar problems to what we experienced decades ago, though they're implementing successful strategies.



EPA research shows nitrogen oxide emissions proved more challenging than sulfur dioxide, coming from vehicles and mobile sources. Climate science studies suggest changing weather patterns add complexity to how acid rain forms and falls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What this teaches us</h2>



The acid rain experience proves that seemingly intractable environmental problems can be solved with scientific understanding, political will, and technological innovation. Environmental monitoring data shows recovery speed was remarkable – within a decade, measurable improvements appeared in air quality and ecosystem health.



Success came from bipartisan support across party lines. Policy analysis studies show the market-based approach appealed to those preferring economic incentives while achieving environmental goals. This support created lasting policy surviving political changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h2>



Acid rain's disappearance from public consciousness represents environmental science's greatest success stories. Through effective regulation, technological innovation, and international cooperation, we transformed an overwhelming crisis into a manageable challenge.



Today's silence isn't because we forgot – it's because we solved it. The 1990 Clean Air Act, combined with technology and energy market changes, reduced acid rain emissions over 90%, according to comprehensive EPA data analysis.



This success offers hope for current challenges. It proves complex problems can be solved when science, policy, and technology work together. As we face climate change and plastic pollution, acid rain reminds us that dramatic positive change is possible.



Next time someone asks whether environmental regulations work, remember acid rain. It's proof that sometimes, we get it right.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



Sources: This article draws from EPA official documentation and progress reports, peer-reviewed research published in environmental and atmospheric science journals, historical data from the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation records, US Geological Survey publications, policy analysis studies, and environmental monitoring data collected over three decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>



1. Is acid rain completely gone? No, but EPA monitoring shows it's reduced to manageable levels. US sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990, making acid rain much less severe than the 1980s crisis.



2. How long did solving take? Environmental monitoring data shows significant improvements began within 5-10 years of 1990s emission controls. Full ecosystem recovery took longer – some areas need 20-30 years for complete recovery.



3. What made the solution successful? Clear scientific understanding, visible damage motivating action, bipartisan support, available technology, and innovative market-based policies like cap-and-trade.



4. Do other countries have acid rain problems? Yes, particularly rapidly industrializing Asian countries. However, international environmental research shows many implement similar successful control strategies.



5. Could acid rain return? Potentially, if regulations weaken or we return to high-sulfur coal without controls, though effects would take years to become severe according to environmental projections.



6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"? The United States Environmental Protection Agency produced a wonderful teacher's guide for ages 14 and under that you can find on the EPA website here: <a href="https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf</a>



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The environmental problem we actually solved

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk Acid rain and a crisis solved. Why don't we...

Fresh,Radish,Harvest,On,Soil,In,Garden.

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex
</div></figure>







Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving fall garden, and this guide lays out the best vegetables and herbs to plant now for a fruitful autumn harvest. 



Fast-growing leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, kale, and arugula perform especially well in the waning summer heat, with harvests beginning as soon as 30 days. 



These cool-season crops relish the transition into fall, offering repeated yields with cut-and-come-again methods.



Root vegetables like radishes, carrots, and beets also excel during this period. Radishes deliver satisfaction in under a month, while carrots and beets mature in about two months. Employing succession planting ensures a continuous stream of produce deep into the cooler months. 



For a boost of fresh flavor, herbs like cilantro, basil, dill, and chervil are excellent picks. These heat-loving varieties flourish in July’s warmth and are harvest-ready in about 30 days, especially when sown continuously.



Gardeners in zones 6 through 9 can benefit from planting bush beans and snap peas, which don’t require trellising and are ideal for compact plots. 



Maturing in 50–60 days, they’re a smart choice for quick, protein-rich harvests. For those in hotter regions, heat-tolerant crops such as okra and southern peas provide reliable yields and thrive in scorching conditions.



This guide emphasizes more than crop selection—it highlights the importance of timing, soil preparation, and ongoing sowing techniques. 



With thoughtful planning and attention to regional climate needs, even late-summer gardeners can enjoy fresh salads, hearty stews, and the satisfaction of a robust, homegrown harvest well into fall.



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving...

Green,Ecoduct,Over,An,Empty,Highway,During,Sunset.

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU
</div></figure>



A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that wildlife tunnels significantly reduce amphibian road mortality during seasonal migrations. 



Frogs and salamanders often cross roads to reach breeding ponds each spring, but many are killed by vehicles. 



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.uvm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vermont</a>, in collaboration with local citizens and the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, installed two underpass tunnels in 2015. 



Over a 12-year monitoring period, they observed an 80.2% reduction in amphibian deaths, and up to 94% for non-climbing species like salamanders. 



The study used a before-after-control-impact design and documented more than 5,200 amphibians, highlighting the tunnels’ effectiveness even in nearby buffer zones.



Funded at $342,397 - far cheaper than wildlife crossings for large mammals - the project showcased the power of community-led conservation.



Local groups initiated the effort after observing mass amphibian deaths. Wildlife cameras later captured over 2,200 amphibians using a tunnel in just one spring, along with other species like raccoons and bobcats, indicating wider ecosystem benefits.



This marks the first peer-reviewed, long-term data set in the northeastern U.S. confirming amphibian-specific underpasses work. 



The study urges transportation departments to incorporate these designs into road planning and highlights how community action, thoughtful infrastructure, and persistence can make a real difference for biodiversity.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1617138125000780" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal for Nature Conservation</a>.



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that...

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



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



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> explores the ability of salt to transform the way that foods and beverages taste. Salt is known to cover up undesirable flavors, such as bitterness in coffee or beer, but how exactly does sodium chloride change the taste of other compounds?



One previous study showed that, not only does salt suppress bitterness, but also enhances sweetness and sourness. Another study revealed that bitterness reduction by salt seems to be happening at the tongue receptor level as well as in the brain.&nbsp;



While it is known that salt taste is mediated by the presence of sodium channels in the form of taste buds, experts believe that there is also an unknown receptor responsible for how we taste salt that has not yet been identified.&nbsp;



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Santiago, the capital city of Chile. The city is located in the center of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, which has a population of about eight million people.&nbsp;



'The weather of Santiago resembles the Mediterranean climate with dry and warm summers with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (from October to March) and cool and humid winters that can drop to 0°C (from April to September)."



"The city lies in the centre of the country’s central valley around 80 km from the Pacific Ocean to the west and borders Argentina to the east. A tiny part of Argentina is visible in the top-right corner of the image where the mountain crest of the Andes Mountains acts as a divider between the two countries," says ESA.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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Spiral,Galaxy,,Illustration,Of,Milky,Way

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Astronomers at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/">Johns Hopkins University</a> have created an interactive map of the universe, including the actual position and real colors of 200,000 galaxies. The map allows the public to access data that was previously only available to scientists.



The map was developed using data collected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. For over two decades, a telescope in New Mexico was aimed at slightly different locations to capture the night sky.&nbsp;



"Growing up I was very inspired by astronomy pictures, stars, nebulae and galaxies, and now it's our time to create a new type of picture to inspire people," said map creator Brice Ménard, a professor at Johns Hopkins. "Astrophysicists around the world have been analyzing this data for years, leading to thousands of scientific papers and discoveries. But nobody took the time to create a map that is beautiful, scientifically accurate, and accessible to people who are not scientists. Our goal here is to show everybody what the universe really looks like."



"In this map, we are just a speck at the very bottom, just one pixel. And when I say we, I mean our galaxy, the Milky Way which has billions of stars and planets. We are used to seeing astronomical pictures showing one galaxy here, one galaxy there or perhaps a group of galaxies. But what this map shows is a very, very different scale."



"From this speck at the bottom, we are able to map out galaxies across the entire universe, and that says something about the power of science."



The <a href="https://mapoftheuniverse.net/">interactive map</a> is available online, where it can be downloaded for free.



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features northwest Lesotho in South Africa.



According to ESA, Lesotho is the only nation in the world that lies completely above 1,000 m in elevation. The country is famous for its tall mountains and narrow valleys, and is known as Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky."



Out of a population of around two million people, about 80 percent live in rural areas. More than 75 percent of these people are engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-have-a-global-impact-on-agriculture/">agriculture</a>, including rainfed cereal production and animal grazing.&nbsp;



ESA reports that the country’s agricultural system faces a growing number of issues, with climate-related vulnerabilities such as drought, floods and extreme temperatures occurring more frequently. 



Diamonds are amongst the minerals found in the mountains. Indeed, Lesotho can truly be called the Kingdom in the Sky. Beautiful, culturally rich, safe, affordable, and easily accessible from Durban and Johannesburg, mountainous Lesotho is a vastly underrated travel destination. the Kingdom of Lesotho (Sotho: 'Muso oa Lesotho) is an enclaved country in southern Africa. It is just over 30,000 km2 (11,583 sq mi) in size and has a population of around 2 million.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland. Beyond its pub culture, Dublin is known as a modern culinary destination and a UNESCO City of Literature.



"Dublin is located near the midpoint of Ireland’s east coast in the province of Leinster. The city, which covers an area of around 115 square kilometers, is bordered by the Dublin Mountains, a low mountain range to the south, and is surrounded by flat farmland to the north and west," says ESA.



"The city straddles the River Liffey, which rises in the Wicklow Mountains and flows around 80 kilometers eastwards through the city of Dublin, in which it is canalised and bordered with quays. It then empties into Dublin Bay, an arm of the Irish Sea."



Dublin has an abundance of green spaces, including one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city. Phoenix Park, which was originally formed as a royal hunting park in the 1660s, includes 707 hectares of green space.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.



"Together with the provinces of Huesca and Teruel, Zaragoza formed the old kingdom of Aragon. Its capital, also called Zaragoza (not visible in this image) is home to around half of Aragon’s population," says ESA.



"The Ebro River can be seen winding its way through the province from west to east in this image. Between its source in the Cantabrian Mountains in the northwest and its delta on the Mediterranean coast, the Ebro River is fed by more than 200 tributaries as it flows 910 km across much of northern Spain."



Since rainfall is very scarce in this region, irrigation in the Ebro basin is critically important. In the valleys surrounding the Ebro River, many fields are used for growing crops such as corn, wheat, and barley.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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