The benefits of psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depression reportedly endures for years, if not forever. 



In a new analysis of people who took part in a 2020 psilocybin clinical trial, 67 percent were still in full remission from depression an average of five years later - up from 58 percent at the one-year mark.



Study lead author Alan Davis is an associate professor and director of the <a href="https://www.cpdre.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Psychedelic Drug Research and Education</a> at The Ohio State University.



“Across the board - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-microbes-have-an-unexpected-link-to-anxiety/">anxiety</a>, depression, global functioning, self-reported depression - we kept seeing the same signal of continued improvement," said Davis.



The follow-up results offer a rare long view of outcomes after psychedelic-assisted therapy, an area where long-term data are still sparse.



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



Psilocybin is a natural compound found in certain mushrooms, often called “magic mushrooms.” When you ingest psilocybin, your body quickly converts it into psilocin, the active form that interacts with your brain. 



Psilocin closely resembles <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-dopamine-and-serotonin-shape-behavior/">serotonin</a>, a key neurotransmitter, so it binds to serotonin receptors - especially the 5-HT2A receptor. 



This binding alters the way nerve cells communicate, which leads to changes in perception, mood, and thought patterns. 



From a scientific standpoint, psilocybin disrupts the brain’s usual patterns of activity and connectivity. 



Brain imaging studies show that it quiets the “default mode network,” a system linked to self-reflection and the inner voice we all carry. 



At the same time, it boosts communication between brain regions that don’t normally interact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-curing-depression-with-psilocybin">Curing depression with psilocybin</h2>



The peer-reviewed study, published in 2021, enrolled adults with major depressive disorder and compared two groups: one received psilocybin treatment immediately, and the other started after a wait-list period.



All the participants ultimately completed a standardized protocol: two dosing sessions with psilocybin paired with about 13 hours of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychotherapy-is-key-to-the-success-of-psychedelic-treatment/">psychotherapy</a> (including preparation, support during sessions, and integration).



The initial results showed large reductions in depression severity, with half of participants in remission up to one year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-patients-over-time">Tracking patients over time</h2>



Of the 24 people in the original trial, 18 took part in the five-year check-in. Online questionnaires were used to assess depression, anxiety, and functional impairment. 



The researchers also applied a clinician-rated depression scale and conducted qualitative interviews to capture changes the numbers might miss.



The team made a conservative assumption to avoid overstating success. They counted the six who did not return as having fully relapsed to pre-treatment levels.



Even under that assumption, depression scores remained “very large and significantly” reduced at five years, Davis noted, and the share of participants in complete remission nudged upward.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-than-psilocybin">More than psilocybin</h2>



The lasting gains cannot be chalked up solely to the two psilocybin sessions. Only three people reported no additional depression-related treatment in the years since. 



Others used antidepressant medications, tried <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ketamine-treatment-may-now-last-months-instead-of-weeks/">ketamine</a> or other psychedelics, or engaged in psychotherapy.



Interviews helped explain that context. Many participants described life with depression as profoundly constricted before the trial - too little energy, too little hope to engage. 



Afterward, several said their depression felt more situational and manageable. They reported a greater capacity for positive emotion and motivation, and a different relationship to low moods when they returned.



A few who experimented with psychedelics on their own found the experiences less helpful without a clinical framework. This underscores a theme from other work by Davis and colleagues: the therapeutic container matters.



A strong alliance with trained therapists, structured preparation, and integration support may play as big a role as the drug itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psilocybin-safety-over-time">Psilocybin safety over time</h2>



At the five-year mark, 11 of 18 participants reported no adverse effects since the trial. Looking back, three remembered feeling unprepared for the heightened emotional sensitivity that followed their dosing sessions. 



Two said tapering off <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cure-for-alcohol-addiction-was-discovered-by-accident/">medications</a> and waiting during the original trial was especially difficult, and two wished they’d had more formal integration therapy afterward.



The study is small, non-randomized at follow-up, and based on a motivated sample - limitations the authors emphasize.



With just 18 people contributing long-term data, it’s impossible to generalize broadly or disentangle psilocybin’s contribution from other treatments and life changes.



Larger, placebo-controlled trials with systematic follow-up will be needed to test durability, dosing strategies, and who benefits most.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psilocybin-depression-and-healthcare">Psilocybin, depression, and healthcare</h2>



Even with the study's limitations, the pattern is encouraging. Many participants maintained remission or continued to function better. 



Several described a shift that outlasted symptom scores - more engagement with family, work, and meaningful activities, and fewer episodes of withdrawal and isolation, which are among depression’s most disabling features.



“Five years later, most people continued to view this treatment as safe, meaningful, and important - something that catalyzed an ongoing betterment of their life,” Davis said.



“Despite some symptoms coming back, they weren’t experiencing the same levels of impairment - suggesting this approach might, for some, kick-start lasting positive change.”



The bottom line: psilocybin-assisted therapy remains experimental, and it’s not a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-gut-bacteria-morganella-morganii-could-cause-depression-not-a-brain-disorder/">depression</a> cure-all. But in this small cohort, the combination of guided psychedelic sessions and psychotherapy was associated with durable relief - and in many cases, a different relationship to depression - years down the road.



The study is published in the <a href="https://akjournals.com/view/journals/2054/aop/article-10.1556-2054.2025.00461/article-10.1556-2054.2025.00461.xml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Psychedelic Studies</a>.



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Patients report no signs of depression five years after psilocybin treatment

The benefits of psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depression reportedly endures for years, if not forever. In a new analysis of people who took part in a 2020 psilocybin clinical trial, 67 percent were still in full remission from depression an average of five years later - up from 58 percent at the one-year mark. Study lead author Alan Davis is an associate professor and director of the Center for Psychedelic Drug Research and Education at The Ohio State University. “Across the board - anxiety, depression, global functioning,...

Tequila, a drink synonymous with celebrations, is facing a sustainability crisis. Beyond the lime wedges and salt lies a complex ecological story involving the blue agave plant and bats, which are both under threat due to current agricultural practices.&nbsp;



A recent study conducted by the <a href="https://www.gu.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Gothenburg</a>, in collaboration with Mexican and American colleagues, sheds light on the challenges and possible solutions to this pressing issue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blue-agave-and-bats-in-peril">Blue agave and bats in peril</h2>



The core of the issue lies in the intensive cultivation of blue agave, the primary ingredient in tequila. Blue agave is losing its genetic diversity due to a widespread asexual reproduction technique adopted by farmers.&nbsp;



This technique, while effective for tequila production, prevents the plant from flowering, thereby reducing its genetic diversity and making it more susceptible to pests and climate change. Furthermore, this practice eliminates a crucial food source for bats, which rely on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sipping-on-nectar-hummingbirds-consume-a-surprising-amount-of-alcohol/">nectar</a> from agave flowers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-erosion-nbsp">Genetic erosion&nbsp;</h2>



"Genetic diversity in agricultural crops can act as a 'natural insurance' against, for example, pest infestations or changes in climate; it can also lead to agricultural improvements," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"Nonetheless, a focus on short-run productivity, a demand for product homogeneity, and other market considerations, have led to the genetic erosion of many crops, resulting in an increased risk of exposure to pathogens and fewer opportunities for crops to continuously adapt in response to changing climatic conditions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bat-friendly-program">Bat-friendly program</h2>



One beacon of hope is the "bat-friendly program," which encourages tequila producers to allow some blue agave plants to undergo sexual reproduction and flower. This initiative not only helps to maintain the genetic diversity of the agave but also supports the bats that feed on the agave nectar.&nbsp;



Producers participating in this program can label their bottles with a special hologram, potentially commanding a higher price due to the environmental benefits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-insights">Challenges and insights</h2>



Despite the merits of the bat-friendly program, its impact is limited as many agave farmers solely grow the crop for sale to distilleries, not producing tequila themselves. Recognizing this gap, the research team conducted a survey to understand what would motivate farmers to adopt more sustainable practices.&nbsp;



The findings revealed that farmers would consider allowing a portion of their agave plants to flower if there were sufficient financial incentives, such as subsidies relative to the investment costs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-sustainable-path-forward">A sustainable path forward</h2>



The study highlights the need for collaboration among various stakeholders, including the tequila industry, consumers, policymakers, and conservation groups.&nbsp;



By combining educational resources with financial incentives, there is a tangible opportunity to make sustainable practices more appealing to farmers. The goal is to strike a balance that benefits the environment, particularly the bats, while ensuring the long-term viability of the blue agave crop.



"Our research shows that, if adequately compensated, blue agave farmers are willing to participate in a program that aims to increase the genetic diversity of blue agave, while benefiting bat populations at the same time," concluded the study authors. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about blue agave</h2>



Blue agave, scientifically known as Agave tequilana, is a succulent plant native to Jalisco, Mexico, and famous for being the primary ingredient in tequila. Characterized by its spiky leaves and a rosette shape, the blue agave thrives in sandy and rocky soils in hot and arid climates. It's a slow-growing plant, usually taking between 8 to 12 years to mature.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Tequila production&nbsp;</h3>



The core of the plant, known as the "piña," is the crucial part used in tequila production. When the agave matures, its leaves are trimmed away, leaving the piña, which resembles a large pineapple. These piñas are then cooked to convert their starches into sugars, which are essential for fermentation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Agave syrup&nbsp;</h3>



Blue agave is not only vital for tequila but also for producing agave syrup, a popular natural sweetener. Unlike other agave species, blue agave is high in fructans, which are believed to offer various health benefits, including a lower glycemic index compared to common sweeteners.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cultural significance&nbsp;</h3>



In Mexican culture, agave has historical significance, being used by indigenous peoples for various purposes, including medicinal and for making fibers. Today, the blue agave landscape of Jalisco is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting its cultural importance.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1088/2515-7620/ad19f4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Research Communications</a>.



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Blue agave and bats face a sustainability crisis in Mexico 

Tequila, a drink synonymous with celebrations, is facing a sustainability...

In a landmark development with far-reaching implications, a recent study from the <a href="https://www.jic.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">John Innes Centre</a> has opened doors to innovative bioengineering possibilities for vaccine adjuvants. 



This breakthrough centers around the soapbark tree (Quillaja saponaria), a critical yet environmentally taxing source for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/medical-breakthrough-new-vaccine-may-prevent-alzheimers-disease/">vaccine</a> ingredients.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unveiling-new-potential-nbsp">Unveiling new potential&nbsp;</h2>



The key focus of the research is QS-21, a potent adjuvant derived from the bark of the Chilean soapbark tree. Adjuvants are crucial in vaccines, enhancing the body's immune response, and QS-21 is a prime example used in vaccines against shingles, malaria, and more.&nbsp;



However, sourcing QS-21 from soapbark trees raised sustainability concerns, given the environmental impact of harvesting this natural resource.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breakthrough-in-bioengineering">Breakthrough in bioengineering</h2>



The team at the John Innes Centre, using the recently published genome sequence of the soapbark tree, has successfully mapped the complex sequence of genes and enzymes required to produce QS-21.&nbsp;



In a pioneering effort, the experts replicated this chemical pathway in a tobacco plant, marking the first instance of producing QS-21 outside of the tree. This method represents a significant leap towards sustainable production.



“Our study opens unprecedented opportunities for bioengineering vaccine adjuvants. We can now investigate and improve these compounds to promote the human immune response to vaccines and produce QS-21 in a way which does not depend on extraction from the soapbark tree," said Professor Anne Osbourn.



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



The quest to replicate QS-21 in an alternative host like tobacco or yeast has been challenging, primarily due to the molecule's complex structure and the previously unknown biochemical pathway in the tree.&nbsp;



Earlier efforts by Professor Osbourn's group had identified part of this pathway, but the full sequence - particularly the acyl chain crucial for stimulating immune cells - remained elusive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advanced-gene-expression-analysis">Advanced gene expression analysis</h2>



The recent study involved identifying approximately 70 candidate genes, which were then introduced into tobacco plants. Utilizing advanced gene expression analysis techniques, along with Metabolomic and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) platforms, the researchers narrowed down to the final 20 genes and enzymes forming the QS-21 pathway.



Dr. Laetitia Martin, the first author of the study, expressed her excitement: “This is the first time QS-21 has been produced in a heterologous expression system. This means we can better understand how this molecule works and how we might address issues of scale and toxicity."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-implications-nbsp">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



By enabling more sustainable production of QS-21, the study not only advances scientific knowledge but also contributes positively to global health initiatives.&nbsp;



“What is so rewarding is that this molecule is used in vaccines and by being able to make it more sustainably my project has an impact on people’s lives. It's amazing to think that something so scientifically rewarding can bring such good to society,” said Dr. Martin.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



“On a personal level this research was scientifically extremely rewarding. I am not a chemist so I could not have done this without the support of the John Innes Centre metabolomics platform and chemistry platform.”&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41589-023-01538-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Chemical Biology</a>.



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Soap bark tree discovery could revolutionize vaccine production

In a landmark development with far-reaching implications, a recent study...

In a recent exploration into the complex world of plants, researchers at the <a href="https://illinois.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign</a> delved into the ways tomato <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-capture-plant-communication-on-video/">plants</a> communicate through chemicals. 



Tomato plants, like many others, emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as a response to various environmental factors, acting as a signal for both defense and interaction with their surroundings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-communication">Chemical communication</h2>



One of the most recognizable scents of nature is the aroma of freshly cut grass, a common example of plants signaling distress. Lacking the ability to flee from harm, plants have developed a sophisticated system of chemical communication.&nbsp;



Volatile organic compounds serve multiple purposes, including defense preparation, alerting neighboring plants to dangers, attracting helpful soil microbes, and even calling in predators of pests.



Lead author Erinn Dady, a graduate student at the University of Illinois, explains this phenomenon using the example of a caterpillar munching on a leaf. The plant releases a chemical signal that essentially acts as an advertisement for the caterpillar's predators, informing them of a potential meal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



This study, focusing on the factors affecting VOC emissions, is crucial to understanding overall plant health. Prior research has examined the impact of various elements such as soil microbes and different tomato varieties on VOCs.&nbsp;



The new study, however, looks at the collective impact of these factors using four popular tomato varieties in central Illinois - two heirlooms (Amish Paste and Cherokee Purple) and two hybrids (Mountain Fresh and Valley Girl).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-research-was-conducted-nbsp">How the research was conducted&nbsp;</h2>



To investigate, the researchers exposed the tomato plants to different treatments including arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), caterpillars, both, or none.&nbsp;



The study of VOCs was conducted by enclosing eight-week-old tomato plants in an odor-blocking oven bag for an hour and then analyzing the air around them using gas chromatography-mass spectrophotometry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-insights">Critical insights</h2>



Interestingly, both AMF and caterpillars, when present alone, reduced the volatile emissions across all tomato varieties. However, their combined presence had a minimal effect compared to either one individually. The study noted a concern that plants were less responsive to caterpillars when in association with AMF.



Moreover, the heirloom tomatoes emitted a greater quantity of VOCs compared to the hybrid varieties. Senior author Esther Ngumbi, an assistant professor of integrative biology, notes that while heirlooms are bred for flavor, hybrids are developed for large-scale production, potentially at the expense of the plant's defenses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-discovery-nbsp">Unexpected discovery&nbsp;</h2>



The research also examined plant growth, finding that plants with fungal associations exhibited higher leaf biomass and more complex root structures.&nbsp;



Surprisingly, caterpillar-treated plants showed greater growth, a response that intrigued the researchers and will be a focus of further investigation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-the-language-of-plants">Learning the language of plants</h2>



According to Ngumbi and Dady, there is still much to uncover about plant responses and the role of different microbes. "People tend to think that plants are not intelligent, but our studies have shown that they are actively responding to the environment around them using chemistry," Dady said.



Through their work, the team aims to deepen our understanding of plant chemistry, a critical language in the botanical world, and its implications for plant health and interaction with the environment.



The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10886-023-01455-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Chemical Ecology</a>. 



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Tomato plants ‘talk’ to one another to signal danger

In a recent exploration into the complex world of plants,...

Amazing,Beautiful,Nature,Deep,Green,Of,Virgin,Rain,Forest,Of

Recent research has unveiled a crucial link between tree species diversity in European forests and their resilience against storms. 



This study, conducted by the French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment (<a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INRAE</a>), marks a significant step in understanding how biodiversity impacts forest sustainability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diversity-as-a-storm-shield">Diversity as a storm shield</h2>



The INRAE research team discovered that forests with a wide variety of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-trees-use-social-distancing-to-promote-forest-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree species</a>, especially those dominated by slow-growing, high-density wood species like oaks, show greater resistance to storm damage. 



This resilience is especially critical under extreme weather conditions, which are becoming increasingly common due to climate change. 



The Mediterranean region's hot-dry climate and the cold-wet climate of northern Scandinavia were highlighted as areas where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-fungi-determine-the-gradient-of-forest-diversity-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> with higher tree diversity show remarkable endurance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-storms-and-tree-diversity">Studying storms and tree diversity</h2>



To reach these conclusions, the team employed advanced simulations, modeling the response of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-forest-biodiversity-has-massive-potential-for-carbon-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> with varying characteristics to storm damage. 



This approach allowed them to create a comprehensive picture of how different forest compositions, from the species-rich to the monocultural, respond to and recover from severe windstorms.



Europe's recent history of frequent and intense windstorms poses a growing threat to its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-species-diversity-makes-forests-more-productive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>, which play a vital role in providing habitat, storing carbon, and supplying timber. 



The findings of this study offer practical insights into how managing tree diversity can help forests adapt to mitigate the impacts of these increasing storm threats.



Dr. Julien Barrere, the lead author of the study from INRAE, emphasizes the study's implications for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-forests-with-diverse-tree-species-increases-likelihood-of-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest management</a> practices. 



He points out that while monocultures of fast-growing species like pine might be economically advantageous, they are more prone to storm damage. 



"In a context of increasing storm losses across the continent, our study therefore argues for forest management practices that promote diversity and slow-growing tree species such as oak,” he explains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modeling-forest-dynamics">Modeling forest dynamics</h2>



The research team's innovative approach involved simulating the dynamics of hundreds of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diverse-forests-can-shut-down-non-native-tree-invasions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> post-storm, using data from over 91,000 real forest plots across Europe. 



This model encompassed varying the climatic conditions, as well as the levels of tree diversity in forests. 



Dr. Barrere elaborates, “This allowed us to quantify the relationship between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-species-diversity-shaped-by-climate-change-for-21000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest composition</a> and resilience to storm disturbance, and how this relationship changes along the European climatic gradient.”



While the model provides valuable insights, Dr. Barrere cautions that fieldwork is necessary to fully validate the findings. 



He acknowledges the limitations of modeling studies, which, despite being essential for understanding long-term forest dynamics, must be complemented by empirical field studies.



In summary, this research by INRAE offers a new perspective on forest management in Europe, highlighting the importance of diversity and specific species selection in enhancing forest resilience. 



As the world braces for more frequent and severe weather events, these findings could be pivotal in shaping future forest management strategies, ensuring the longevity and health of these crucial ecosystems.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/1365-2435.14489" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Functional Ecology</a>.



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Tree diversity makes forests more resilient against storms

Recent research has unveiled a crucial link between tree species...

Tropical,Jungle,Lianas,,Exotic,Forest,Plants,,Exotic,Forest,Plants.,Woody

In the face of Earth's hottest year on record, has unveiled a disturbing trend: woody vines, known as lianas, are aggressively overtaking <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-forest-biodiversity-has-massive-potential-for-carbon-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> worldwide. 



This phenomenon, discovered in a pivotal global study spearheaded by the University of the Sunshine Coast (<a href="https://www.usc.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UniSC</a>), poses a significant threat to these ecosystems' ability to mitigate climate change by storing carbon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tipping-point-climate-and-disturbance">Tipping point: Climate and disturbance</h2>



This research encompasses a remarkable scope, spanning 44 countries across five continents. The team's comprehensive analysis has pinpointed the forests most at risk, revealing a particular vulnerability in tropical, low-elevation forests. 



Notable examples include regions in East Africa, Vietnam, Colombia, and Australia's Wet Tropics, among numerous others worldwide.



Professor Andy Marshall, from UniSC's Forest Research Institute, emphasizes the study's discovery of a "tipping point" – a critical juncture where the dominance of lianas becomes pronounced. 



This point is reached when the mean annual temperature exceeds 27.8° Celsius, coupled with rainfall less than 1,614 mm, particularly in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forest-modeling-study-reveals-new-insights-into-carbon-sequestration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> already disturbed by human activities like logging and clearing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-woody-vine-dominance">Implications of woody vine dominance</h2>



Lianas, by their very nature, choke trees and impede their growth as they climb towards the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-becoming-less-productive-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest canopy</a>. 



"Woody vines are increasingly taking over the world's forests," said Marshall. "For the first time, we have a global assessment that confirms that forest disturbance and climatic factors are major drivers of liana dominance."



These findings are crucial for the restoration of the world's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-forests-are-unexpected-heroes-of-carbon-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>. "They allow us to know where to concentrate our efforts for restoration and identify future areas of concern in a changing climate," explains Marshall.



He further highlights that environmental conditions fostering liana vines could out-compete trees and stall recovery in disturbed native forests globally.



Professor Marshall draws particular attention to Australia, where the coastal and low-elevation forests of north Queensland are most vulnerable. 



"In Australia, the coastal and low-elevation <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-forests-with-many-tree-species-are-more-effective-at-carbon-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> of north Queensland are the most vulnerable— adding to the ongoing threat of deforestation which, in Queensland, is already greater than any other developed country," he said.



"With warmer temperatures and ongoing disturbances from logging and clearing, those forests areas under threat from liana around the world are only going to increase."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-woody-vines-are-thriving-in-climate-change">Woody vines are thriving in climate change</h2>



Tracing back to his first rainforest expedition in East Africa in 1998, Professor Marshall recalls his intrigue with the vines blanketing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/protected-forests-offset-a-years-worth-of-global-fossil-fuel-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a>. 



Since then, research has escalated in scale, predominantly with local or regional focuses, leading to this global study.



This research is grounded in an "unprecedented dataset" from 651 vegetation samples representing 26,538 lianas and 82,802 trees, from 556 unique locations worldwide, derived from 83 research publications. 



The collaborative effort involved 20 co-authors from diverse research institutions across continents including Australia, South Africa, the UK, Singapore, Panama, Brazil, the USA, and China.



The study reveals that lianas are better adapted to climate change conditions, such as warmer temperatures, lower rainfall, and disturbances like fire, logging, and clearing. 



Their dominance over trees hampers the latter's recovery from disturbances, a situation that can persist for decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-sink-dilemma">Carbon sink dilemma</h2>



Forests, alongside oceans and soil, are the world's largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/boreal-and-temperate-forests-have-emerged-as-the-main-carbon-sinks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon sinks</a>. The encroachment of lianas not only contributes to forest loss and degradation but also exacerbates the threat to this vital carbon sink. 



The urgency now lies in developing sensitive, effective solutions to help trees recover from vine domination and to restore the global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-forests-are-losing-their-carbon-storage-capacity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon sink</a>.



However, Professor Marshall cautions against the full-scale clearing of lianas. He underscores the role of lianas in forest ecosystems and biodiversity -- from boosting soil fertility and carbon cycling to benefiting other plants, animals, soils, and overall ecosystem function, in both intact and disturbed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-diversity-increases-carbon-storage-in-forest-soils/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>. 



"We certainly wouldn't want this work to lead to forest managers going and cutting out all these vines out of their forests," he said. "Liana plays its part in the forest ecosystem and biodiversity by boosting soil fertility and carbon cycling, and can benefit other plants, animals, soils and overall ecosystem function, in both intact and disturbed forests."



The challenge is to manage their growth, which, under human impact, has become excessively high and unnatural.



"It is just that human impact is so great in some areas, that they are growing in very high numbers, they are not growing in a natural way," Marshall concluded.



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



As discussed above, woody vines, known scientifically as lianas, are becoming increasingly significant in our ecosystems. 



These climbing plants, often found in tropical and subtropical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-creates-an-unclear-future-for-u-s-forests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>, have shown a remarkable ability to adapt and thrive in changing environmental conditions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptability-of-woody-vines">Adaptability of woody vines</h3>



Woody vines possess unique characteristics that enable them to flourish in diverse environments. 



They typically use trees or other vertical structures for support, allowing them to reach sunlight more efficiently than their non-climbing counterparts. 



This ability gives them a competitive edge, especially in dense forests where light is a precious resource.



The growth of woody vines has profound implications for forest ecosystems. By climbing and enveloping trees, they often hinder the trees' ability to grow and reproduce. 



This interaction can lead to reduced forest density and diversity, impacting the overall <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-carbon-buried-deep-beneath-the-forest-is-disrupted-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health</a> of the ecosystem. 



Moreover, the aggressive nature of these vines often makes them a dominant species in disturbed habitats, such as areas affected by logging or deforestation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-woody-vines-and-climate-change">Woody vines and climate change</h3>



Climate change plays a significant role in the proliferation of woody vines. These plants have shown a remarkable resilience to changes in temperature and precipitation patterns, often outcompeting other species in altered environments. 



As such, they are becoming more prevalent in regions experiencing the effects of climate change, reshaping <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secondary-forests-reconnect-fragmented-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest landscapes</a> and biodiversity.



Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. However, the increasing dominance of woody vines poses a challenge to this vital function. 



By inhibiting tree growth and survival, they can potentially reduce the capacity of forests to sequester carbon, thus exacerbating the impact of climate change.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-balanced-ecosystem-management">Need for balanced ecosystem management</h3>



In summary, woody vines are an intriguing yet challenging component of our natural world. As discussed here in depth, the rise of woody vines underscores the need for effective ecosystem management. 



While these plants are a natural part of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-in-the-treetops-canopy-soils-protect-the-forest-below/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest ecosystems</a> and contribute to biodiversity, their uncontrolled growth can lead to ecological imbalances. 



As the world grapples with climate change, understanding and addressing the rise of lianas in forests becomes an essential part of our global environmental strategy. 



The balance between forest conservation and management is delicate, yet critical, for the health of our planet.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/gcb.17140">Global Change Biology</a>.



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Woody vines strangle trees and takeover forests as temperatures get hotter

In the face of Earth's hottest year on record, has...

Salads and leafy greens, like lettuce, are essential components of a healthy diet on Earth, and they're also crucial for astronauts embarking on space missions. 



Since the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (<a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>) introduced <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/exploration-research-and-technology/growing-plants-in-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space-grown</a> lettuce to the International Space Station (ISS) menu over three years ago, it has become a vital part of astronauts' diets, complementing staples like flour tortillas and powdered coffee. 



However, growing lettuce in space presents unique challenges, especially concerning food safety.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-problem-lettuce-pathogens-in-space">Problem: Lettuce pathogens in space </h2>



The ISS harbors numerous pathogenic bacteria and fungi, posing a significant risk to astronauts' health. 



These pathogens, including E. coli and Salmonella, can aggressively colonize plant tissues, such as lettuce, leading to potential foodborne illnesses. 



With billions invested annually in space exploration by entities like NASA and <a href="https://www.spacex.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SpaceX</a>, an outbreak aboard the ISS could severely impact mission success.



A team of researchers from the <a href="https://www.udel.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Delaware</a>, including lead author Noah Totsline, recently published studies in Scientific Reports and <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41526-023-00323-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">npj Microgravity</a>, exploring this issue in depth. 



They replicated the weightless environment of the ISS to study how lettuce plants respond to these conditions, particularly in terms of pathogen susceptibility.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gravity-plant-defense-and-pathogen-invasion">Gravity, plant defense, and pathogen invasion </h2>



Plants typically use their roots to sense gravity, but the University of Delaware team disrupted this process by rotating the plants, simulating microgravity. 



Surprisingly, they found that plants grown under these conditions were more prone to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/salmonella-has-found-a-way-to-evade-plant-defenses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Salmonella</a> infection. 



The researchers attributed this to an unusual response in the plants' stomata – the tiny pores responsible for gas exchange. Noah Totsline, an alumnus of UD’s <a href="https://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/canr/departments/plant-and-soil-sciences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Plant and Soil Sciences</a>, explained why in the study.



“The fact that they were remaining open when we were presenting them with what would appear to be a stress was really unexpected. In effect, the plant would not know which way was up or down,” Totsline said. “We were kind of confusing their response to gravity.”



This reaction inadvertently makes the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/special-lettuce-could-protect-astronauts-from-bone-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> more vulnerable to Salmonella invasion.



To achieve the simulation of microgravity, the team utilized a clinostat, a device that rotates plants similarly to a rotisserie chicken. "The plant would not know which way was up or down," Totsline describes. 



This disorientation, while not true microgravity, effectively helped the plants lose their sense of direction, making the conditions right for studying pathogen interaction.



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



The study's findings highlight a critical area of concern for space agriculture: ensuring food safety under unique environmental conditions. 



The propensity for increased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-treatment-protects-tomatoes-from-salmonella-and-e-coli/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Salmonella</a> invasion in space-grown lettuce underlines the need for continued research and innovative solutions to protect astronauts' health.



UD researchers, led by <a href="https://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/canr/departments/plant-and-soil-sciences/faculty-staff/harsh-bais/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Harsh Bais</a>, have been investigating the role of a helper bacteria, <a href="https://www.udel.edu/udaily/2019/may/beneficial-bacteria-basf-soil-plants-licensing-patent-oeip/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bacillus subtilis UD1022</a>, in enhancing plant growth and resilience against various stressors, including pathogens and drought. 



This bacterium, previously effective in protecting plants against <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organic-vegetables-often-harbor-human-pathogens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Salmonella</a> on Earth, was added to a microgravity simulation to assess its protective capabilities in space-like conditions. 



Contrary to expectations, Bais and his team discovered that UD1022 did not safeguard plants in these simulated conditions. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risks-of-lettuce-microbes-in-space">Risks of lettuce microbes in space</h2>



This failure is attributed to the bacterium’s inability to induce a biochemical response in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-extract-mars-astronauts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a>, crucial for closing their stomata and preventing pathogen invasion.



“The failure of UD1022 to close stomata under simulated microgravity is both surprising and interesting and opens another can of worms,” Bais said, expressing surprise at these findings. 



“I suspect the ability of UD1022 to negate the stomata closure under microgravity simulation may overwhelm the plant and make the plant and UD1022 unable to communicate with each other, helping Salmonella invade a plant," Bais concluded.



<a href="https://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/canr/departments/animal-and-food-sciences/faculty-staff/kali-kniel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kali Kniel</a>, a microbial food safety professor at UD, emphasizes the ubiquity of microbes and the consequent risk of bacterial pathogens in any human-inhabited space, including the International Space Station (ISS). 



“We need to be prepared for and reduce risks in space for those living now on the International Space Station and for those who might live there in the future,” Kniel said, stressing the importance of mitigating these risks. 



With around seven astronauts working on the ISS at any given time, the environment, comparable to a six-bedroom house, is prone to microbial havoc.



“It is important to better understand how bacterial pathogens react to microgravity in order to develop appropriate mitigation strategies," said Kniel.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-a-solution-for-safe-space-agriculture">Finding a solution for safe space agriculture</h2>



The collaboration between Kniel and Bais, blending expertise in microbial food safety and plant biology, is pivotal in studying human pathogens on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-space-radiation-affect-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants in space</a>. 



“To best develop ways to reduce risks associated with the contamination of leafy greens and other produce commodities we need to better understand the interactions between human pathogens on plants grown in space,” Kniel said. “And the best way to do this is with a multidisciplinary approach.”



As Earth's population is projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050 and 10.4 billion by 2100, according to a United Nations report, the demand for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/watermeal-may-become-an-essential-food-for-astronauts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">safe food in space</a> becomes increasingly critical. 



Bais points out the urgency of exploring alternate living spaces due to diminishing agricultural land on Earth. He notes, “people are going to soon think seriously about alternate habitation spaces. These are not fiction anymore.”



The significance of this research is underscored by the frequent food safety issues on Earth, like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-treatment-protects-tomatoes-from-salmonella-and-e-coli/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">E. coli</a> or Salmonella outbreaks in leafy greens. 



With such greens being a primary food source for astronauts and easily cultivable in controlled environments like the ISS, ensuring their safety is paramount. Bais emphasizes, “You don’t want the whole mission to fail just because of a food safety outbreak.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sterilized-seeds-and-genetic-modifications">Sterilized seeds and genetic modifications</h2>



Addressing the challenge of plant vulnerability in microgravity environments, Kniel suggests starting with sterilized seeds to minimize microbial presence. 



However, she acknowledges the possibility of microbes in the space environment contaminating the plants. 



“Starting with sterilized seeds is a way to reduce risks of having microbes on plants,” Kniel said. “But then microbes may be in the space environment and can get onto plants that way.” 



Bais proposes genetic modifications to plants to prevent them from excessively opening their stomata in space. 



His lab is evaluating different lettuce varieties under simulated microgravity to identify genetic factors that influence stomatal behavior.



“If, for example, we find one that closes their stomata compared to another we have already tested that opens their stomata, then we can try to compare the genetics of these two different cultivars,” Bais said. “That will give us a lot of questions in terms of what is changing.” 



The outcomes of this research could be crucial in preventing food safety issues with plants grown in space, ensuring the well-being of astronauts and paving the way for sustainable living beyond Earth.



Looking ahead, the work of Totsline and his team opens the door to further studies on how microgravity affects plant physiology and pathogen interaction. 



These insights will not only benefit space missions but also enhance our understanding of plant biology and disease management in agriculture. 



As we venture further into space, ensuring the safety and nutritional value of astronaut diets remains a top priority, guiding the future of space farming and habitation.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1038/s41598-024-51573-y">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Eating lettuce and salads in space is a bad idea, according to a new study

Salads and leafy greens, like lettuce, are essential components of...

Robotic,Cyborg,Hand,,Nature,And,Technology,Abstract,Concept,,3d,Rendering

Researchers have made a significant leap in artificial intelligence (AI) by successfully simulating the growth and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-still-have-much-to-learn-about-tree-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">form of trees</a>. This achievement, a blend of technology and nature, marks a pivotal moment in digital modeling.



The team comprised scientists from Purdue University’s Department of <a href="https://cs.purdue.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Computer Science</a> and Institute for Digital Forestry, along with Sören Pirk from <a href="https://www.uni-kiel.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kiel University</a> in Germany.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dna-inspired-ai-modeling-tree-growth">DNA-inspired AI: Modeling tree growth</h2>



At the heart of their endeavor is the DNA molecule, a master blueprint for both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazon-dark-earth-could-revolutionize-forest-restoration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree shape</a> and environmental response. 



<a href="https://www.cs.purdue.edu/people/faculty/bbenes.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bedrich Benes</a>, a professor at Purdue, and his team have drawn inspiration from this natural phenomenon to craft innovative AI models. 



“The AI models learn from large data sets to mimic the intrinsic discovered behavior,” Benes said.



These models are remarkable for their efficiency, distilling the complex information needed to replicate tree forms into a neural model barely a megabyte in size.



“It's complex behavior, but it has been compressed to rather a small amount of data,” Benes explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-real-world-applications">Real-world applications</h2>



The practical applications of these AI models are profound. After a period of rigorous training, they are capable of encoding the local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-will-cause-massive-declines-in-tree-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">development of trees</a>, allowing for the generation of intricate tree models with detailed geometries that span several gigabytes. 



This technology stands to revolutionize fields ranging from architecture and urban planning to gaming and entertainment, offering a new level of realism in digital environments.



Benes, reflecting on a decade of working with AI models, shared his anticipation of these advancements significantly enhancing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-trees-surrounded-by-less-asphalt-grow-taller-and-stronger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digital tree models</a>. 



Yet, the compact size of these models, encapsulating complex behaviors in a small data footprint, was an unexpected and pleasant surprise.



The research, detailed in two papers published in the prestigious ACM Transactions on Graphics and IEEE Transactions on Visualizations and Computer Graphics, represents a collaborative effort. 



Purdue graduate students <a href="https://www.cs.purdue.edu/people/graduate-students/lee2161.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jae Joong Lee</a>, <a href="https://www.cs.purdue.edu/cgvlab/www/team/bosheng-li/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bosheng Li</a>, and Xiaochen Zhou, alongside <a href="https://ag.purdue.edu/directory/sfei" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Songlin Fei</a>, a key figure in remote sensing and director of the <a href="https://ag.purdue.edu/digital-forestry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute for Digital Forestry</a>, contributed significantly to this breakthrough.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-machine-learning-and-tree-growth">AI machine learning and tree growth</h2>



The team employed deep learning, an advanced branch of AI, to develop <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-outpaces-the-ability-for-trees-to-adapt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">growth models</a> for various tree species like maple, oak, pine, and walnut, both with and without leaves. 



This method involves training AI models through interconnected neural networks, an approach that seeks to replicate aspects of human brain functionality.



Despite AI's increasing prevalence in various fields, its success in modeling 3D geometries, particularly those related to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-becoming-less-productive-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature</a>, has been limited. 



According to Benes, generating 3D models of vegetation has been a long-standing challenge in computer graphics. 



“Although AI has become seemingly pervasive, thus far it has mostly proved highly successful in modeling 3D geometries unrelated to nature,” Benes said.



Traditional approaches to tree-growth simulations, often led by experts with biological expertise, have focused on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pine-trees-grow-toward-equator/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">how trees interact</a> with their environment. 



These interactions are governed by both genetic factors, like branching angles, and environmental influences, resulting in diverse tree shapes even within the same species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Future of tree growth and artificial intelligence</h2>



In their quest to untangle this complexity, the researchers turned to AI. By feeding thousands of trees' worth of data into their models, they aimed to let AI learn and distill the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-fate-of-our-forests-new-tool-predicts-tree-survival-amidst-drought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">essence of tree form</a>. 



This approach marks a departure from traditional model building, which is based on human-generated hypotheses and observations. 



“Decoupling the tree’s intrinsic properties and its environmental response is extremely complicated,” Benes said. “We looked at thousands of trees, and we thought, ‘Hey, let AI learn it.’ And maybe we can then learn the essence of tree form with AI.”



Instead, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-monitor-biodiversity-through-animal-sounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI generalizes behavior</a> from a vast input dataset, with subsequent validation to ensure the models mirror the observed behaviors.



One current limitation is the lack of training data that accurately describes real-world 3D tree geometry. The team's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forest-modeling-study-reveals-new-insights-into-carbon-sequestration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI models</a> simulate tree developmental algorithms rather than directly mimicking nature. 



Benes envisions a future where capturing a tree's image with a cellphone could generate its 3D geometry within a computer, offering new perspectives and interaction possibilities. 



“In our methods, we needed to generate the data. So our AI models are not simulating nature. They are simulating tree developmental algorithms,” Benes said. He aspires to reconstruct 3D geometry data from real trees inside a computer.



“You take your cellphone, take a picture of a tree, and you get a 3D geometry inside the computer. It could be rotated. Zoom in. Zoom out,” he said. “This is next. And it’s perfectly aligned with the mission of digital forestry.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-digital-forestry-and-the-future">Digital forestry and the future</h2>



This vision aligns seamlessly with the mission of digital forestry, heralding a new era of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/survey-mother-nature-is-more-likely-to-solve-climate-change-than-geoengineering/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">technological and natural integration</a>.



In summary, the pioneering work of these scientists represents a significant milestone in the intersection of artificial intelligence and natural modeling. 



Their innovative approach, harnessing the power of AI to simulate the growth and form of trees, demonstrates the potential of technology to replicate complex natural phenomena, while opening a realm of possibilities for practical applications in diverse fields. 



From enhancing the realism in digital entertainment to aiding urban planning and architectural designs, this breakthrough sets the stage for future advancements where technology and nature coalesce, offering new insights and capabilities that were once beyond our reach.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/3627101" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACM Transactions on Graphics</a>.



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Artificial intelligence can now simulate tree growth and shape

Researchers have made a significant leap in artificial intelligence (AI)...

Researchers at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a> have identified new strains of bacterial pathogens in Pennsylvania that threaten the state's potato <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tackling-malnutrition-new-satellite-can-monitor-nutrients-in-crops-from-space/">crops</a>, which are crucial to its snack industry. 



These pathogens are capable of causing devastating diseases like blackleg and soft rot, leading to potential crop losses.



Pennsylvania is known for its leading snack companies like Martin's Potato Chips, Utz, and Snyder's of Hanover. The state highly values its potato production.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study-nbsp">Focus of the study&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers embarked on a study after observing symptoms of blackleg and soft rot in potato fields across Pennsylvania. These symptoms include wilting, stunting, black lesions, and rotting tubers.&nbsp;



In their investigation, the team collected samples from 26 potato fields showing these distressing signs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-startling-results-nbsp">Startling results&nbsp;</h2>



The team isolated, cultured, and identified 456 samples of bacteria. This included six species of Pectobacterium and one strain of Dickeya, which were previously unreported in Pennsylvania.&nbsp;



Alarmingly, one of the Pectobacterium species had never been seen in the United States before.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-insights-nbsp">Critical insights&nbsp;</h2>



Study co-author Professor Carolee Bull said the findings could inform methods for detecting and quantifying the potato pathogens causing blackleg and soft rot in Pennsylvania and beyond.



"In addition to surveillance, these insights could also help us better understand disease epidemiology," said Professor Bull. "For example, the pathogens may have different optimum temperatures for growing or for producing these symptoms in the potatoes. So, the severity of the disease may change depending on different climate conditions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recent-crop-losses">Recent crop losses</h2>



The research comes in the wake of significant crop losses in other northeastern states like Maine and New York, attributed to similar pathogens.&nbsp;



These losses have reignited interest in monitoring not only known pathogens but also those not yet reported in the U.S. such as Dickeya solani. This particular pathogen is known for causing severe disease outbreaks in Europe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-the-pathogens-nbsp">Identifying the pathogens&nbsp;</h2>



"The losses in the Maine potato industry, as well as the importance of the potato industry here in Pennsylvania and to the potato chip industry, necessitated that we determine what pathogens may be causing these outbreaks," said Professor Bull.



"We were worried that new pathogens had entered the U.S., including the very devastating Dickeya solani."



Professor Bull noted that growers will benefit from the analysis by knowing which organisms were found on which potato varieties.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-nbsp">Broader implications&nbsp;</h2>



The study's findings are crucial for Pennsylvania's potato industry and the broader U.S. agricultural sector. 



The detection of pathogens like P. actinidiae, P. polonicum, P. polaris, P. punjabense, P. parmentieri, and P. versatile, and particularly the first-time reporting of P. actinidiae in the U.S., marks a significant milestone in plant pathology. 



The identification of these bacteria is a vital step in developing effective management and control strategies, which are essential for protecting potato crop yields.



The researchers said they will continue their work by testing the effects of these pathogens on potatoes, developing surveillance tools for each of the pathogens, and evaluating the need for new management practices.



The research was supported by the United States Department of Agriculture and the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.syapm.2023.126476" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Systematic and Applied Microbiology</a>.



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Potato-threatening pathogens discovered that could harm potato chip production

Researchers at Penn State have identified new strains of bacterial...

Women who eat more plant-based protein develop fewer chronic diseases and are generally healthier later in life, according to a study from the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (HNRCA) at <a href="https://www.tufts.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tufts University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study-nbsp">Focus of the study&nbsp;</h2>



The research was focused on data from over 48,000 women. The data was obtained from the Harvard-based Nurses' Health Study, which tracked female healthcare professionals from 1984 to 2016. At the study's onset, the women were between the ages of 38 and 59 and were in good physical and mental health.



The researchers examined dietary surveys collected every four years. They analyzed the frequency of consumption of various foods to assess the impact of dietary protein on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fasting-and-feeding-cycle-is-crucial-for-healthy-aging/">healthy aging</a>. The Harvard University Food Composition Database was used to calculate total protein intake from all food items.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings-nbsp">Key findings&nbsp;</h2>



The experts found a striking correlation between higher plant-based protein intake and reduced incidence of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, as well as cognitive and mental health decline.&nbsp;



Women who consumed more plant protein were 46% more likely to maintain good health into their later years.



On the other hand, higher consumption of animal protein was associated with a 6% decrease in the likelihood of healthy aging.&nbsp;



While animal protein was modestly linked to fewer physical limitations in older age, plant protein showed a stronger and more consistent correlation across all models, especially with mental health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-source-of-the-protein-matters">The source of the protein matters</h2>



“Consuming protein in midlife was linked to promoting good health in older adulthood,” said study lead author Andres Ardisson Korat.&nbsp;



“We also found that the source of protein matters. Getting the majority of your protein from plant sources at midlife, plus a small amount of animal protein seems to be conducive to good health and good survival to older ages.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chronic-disease-nbsp">Chronic disease&nbsp;</h2>



For heart disease, in particular, higher plant protein consumption was associated with lower levels of LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, and insulin sensitivity.&nbsp;



By contrast, increased animal protein intake was associated with higher levels of these markers and increased insulin-like growth factor, which is linked to various cancers.



“Those who consumed greater amounts of animal protein tended to have more chronic disease and didn’t manage to obtain the improved physical function that we normally associate with eating protein,” said Ardisson Korat.



Interestingly, dairy protein (from sources like milk, cheese, pizza, yogurt, and ice cream) showed no significant correlation with better health status in older adulthood.



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



The study suggests that the benefits of plant protein might extend beyond the protein itself. Plant-based foods typically have higher proportions of dietary fiber, micronutrients, and polyphenols, beneficial compounds not found in animal foods.



However, Ardisson Korat also emphasized the need for further research, particularly in more diverse groups. The Nurses' Health Study primarily surveyed white females in the healthcare sector.



“The data from the study tended to be very homogeneous in terms of demographic and socioeconomic composition, so it will be valuable to follow up with a study in cohorts that are more diverse. It’s a field that is still evolving,” said Ardisson Korat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recommendations">Recommendations</h2>



The findings support the recommendation for women to consume most of their protein from fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. However, the inclusion of some fish and animal protein is advised for iron and vitamin B12 content.



“Dietary protein intake, especially plant protein, in midlife plays an important role in the promotion of healthy aging and in maintaining positive health status at older ages,” concluded Ardisson Korat.



The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ajcnut.2023.11.010" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Journal of Clinical Nutrition</a>.&nbsp;



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Plant protein linked to healthier aging and lower risk of disease

Women who eat more plant-based protein develop fewer chronic diseases...

Fall,Colors,,Autumn,Foliage,In,The,Adirondacks,,New,York,State

A remarkable discovery near New York City has unveiled the world's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oldest-fossil-forest-asia/">oldest forest</a>, dating back 385 million years. 



Located in Cairo, Green County, about two hours north of the city by car, the ancient forest offers a glimpse into a prehistoric world that even predates the dinosaurs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-plant-life-in-the-world-s-oldest-forest">Early plant life in the world's oldest forest</h2>



Researchers from <a href="https://www.binghamton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SUNY Binghamton</a> and <a href="https://www.binghamton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cardiff University</a> in Wales have unearthed fossils of early plant life at the site. 



The forest, stretching from New York to Pennsylvania, featured trees as tall as 65 feet with trunks up to five feet in diameter.&nbsp;



This discovery is pivotal in understanding the planet's climatic evolution, as the emergence of trees played a crucial role in altering Earth’s climate by absorbing carbon dioxide and laying the groundwork for the atmosphere that supports human life.



First uncovered in 2009, the archaeological site has been meticulously analyzed by the team to accurately date the trees and identify the species that once thrived there.&nbsp;



Christopher Berry, a paleobotanist from Cardiff University, described the experience, saying, "You are walking through the roots of ancient trees. Standing on the quarry surface we can reconstruct the living forest around us in our imagination."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fossilized-woody-roots-nbsp">Fossilized woody roots&nbsp;</h2>



The site, roughly half the size of a football field, contains rocks aged at 385 million years. The discovery of fossilized "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/decaying-tree-roots-may-have-caused-mass-extinctions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">woody roots</a>" of old trees marks a significant turning point in Earth's history. 



These roots, with their unique horizontal radial patterns, indicate where vertical tree trunks once stood.



Predominantly, the forest’s trunks were from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/decaying-tree-roots-may-have-caused-mass-extinctions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Archaeopteris</a>, a tree species with large wooden roots and leafy branches. 



The forest also housed cladoxylopsids, an extinct group of sphenopsids and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-sheds-light-on-the-evolution-of-ferns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ferns</a>, and a third yet-to-be-identified tree type. 



Interestingly, all these trees reproduced through spores rather than seeds, a process where small cells multiply to create more plants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geochemical-changes-in-the-world-s-oldest-forest">Geochemical changes in the world's oldest forest</h2>



Kevin Boyce, a geoscientist at <a href="https://www.stanford.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford University</a>, highlighted the significant impact these trees had on the ancient climate. 



Their growth process involved "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-rock-weathering-is-a-co2-source-comparable-to-volcanoes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weathering</a>," a chemical reaction that extracts carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and converts it to carbon ions in groundwater, which eventually flows to the sea and gets absorbed in limestone.



The researchers believe that a massive flood led to the forest's demise, a theory supported by the discovery of multiple fish fossils on the quarry's surface. 



Berry noted the unexpected coexistence of plants previously thought to inhabit mutually exclusive environments.



He explained how they drilled into the fossil soil between the trees to investigate geochemical changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-the-forest-as-a-historical-site">Preserving the forest as a historical site</h2>



In 2020, New York State Assemblyman Chris Tauge introduced a resolution to the Cairo Town Board to protect this significant area. 



John Coyne, the supervisor of Cairo, expressed pride and excitement about this discovery, underscoring the collaboration between the county, state, and the town for its preservation.



Before this discovery, the oldest known forest was in Gilboa, New York, located about 25 miles from the Cairo site. 



Discovered in the late 19th century, the Gilboa forest was home to Gilboa Trees, or Eospermatopteris, one of the earliest plant species on Earth. 



These fern-like trees, reaching around 30 feet tall, lacked wood. A preserved tree stump from Gilboa, initially displayed in a museum in the mid-1900s, was later moved to the <a href="https://nysl.nysed.gov/locpar_ce.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cultural Education Center</a> in Albany, New York.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-archaeopteris-in-the-world-s-oldest-forest">Archaeopteris in the world's oldest forest</h2>



As mentioned above, Archaeopteris trees were the predominant plants in the world's oldest forest. This remarkable plant evolved in the late <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oldest-fossil-forest-asia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Devonian period</a>, over 360 million years ago. 



The prehistoric tree, bridging the gap between ferns and the earliest trees, held a pivotal role in transforming Earth's ecosystems.



Scientists discovered Archaeopteris fossils in various parts of the world, from North America to Europe and Africa, revealing its widespread presence. 



Archaeopteris dominated late Devonian forests with its towering presence, reaching up to 30 feet in height. It featured a unique combination of large, woody trunks and delicate, fern-like leaves. 



These features make Archaeopteris a precursor to modern trees. Its robust root systems allowed for greater nutrient absorption and stability, fostering more complex forest ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-and-significance">Impact and significance</h2>



The emergence of Archaeopteris played a crucial role in Earth's carbon cycle. By drawing down carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, these trees contributed to a significant drop in global temperatures, potentially leading to late <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-species-holds-valuable-evidence-of-plant-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Devonian</a> ice ages. 



Despite its success, Archaeopteris disappeared from the fossil record around 359 million years ago, marking its extinction. Its legacy, however, lives on. 



Archaeopteris set the stage for the evolution of modern trees, shaping the structure of forests as we know them today.



In summary, this fascinating find pushes back the timeline of our planet's botanical history and furthers our understanding of how ancient ecosystems functioned and evolved. 



The Cairo forest, with its deep historical roots and significant scientific value, stands as a testament to the enduring wonders of the natural world.



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World’s oldest forest discovered close to New York City

A remarkable discovery near New York City has unveiled the...

A study from <a href="https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monterey Bay Aquarium</a> has shed light on the pivotal role played by southern sea otters in preserving and enhancing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pacific-kelp-forests-existed-32-million-years-ago/">kelp forests</a> of California.&nbsp;



The research offers profound insights into the dynamics between a keystone species and its environment, providing a hopeful narrative in the face of environmental adversities.



According to the study, southern sea otters have prevented the widespread decline of California's kelp forests over the past century. The research was focused on the period from 1910 to 2016.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-century-of-support-from-sea-otters">A century of support from sea otters</h2>



Once on the brink of extinction due to rampant hunting in the 1800s, the southern sea otter has made a remarkable comeback along California's central coast. 



This resurgence has had a big impact on the kelp forests in the region. 



"Our study showed that kelp forests are more extensive and resilient to climate change where sea otters have reoccupied the California coastline during the last century," explained study lead author Teri Nicholson, senior research biologist with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Sea Otter Program.



"Where sea otters are absent, kelp forests have declined dramatically. In fact, we found sea otter population density as the strongest predictor of change in kelp canopy coverage across this hundred-year span."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-climate-trends-nbsp">Understanding climate trends&nbsp;</h2>



Utilizing historical surveys of kelp forests, the researchers performed detailed analyses of canopy extent, biomass, and carbon storage. 



The team accounted for annual variations and differences in survey methods to provide a comprehensive view of the trends over the last century. 



"The use of historical maps provided an important opportunity to help us examine long-term kelp forest trends," said Jess Fujii, scientific and operational leader of the <a href="https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/stories/sea-otter-rescue-and-research" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aquarium's Sea Otter Program</a>. 



"This broader view is important for understanding trends related to climate change, and developing effective science-based conservation strategies."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-on-sea-otters-and-kelp-forests">Insights on sea otters and kelp forests</h2>



The study highlighted a significant increase in kelp forest canopy along the central coast, with an estimated 56 percent rise in coverage.&nbsp;



By contrast, the northern and southern regions of California saw decreases of 63 and 52 percent, respectively. Remarkably, the overall decline in the state's kelp canopy was just six percent from 1910 to 2016.



Through machine learning frameworks, the researchers identified sea otter population density as the strongest predictor of change in kelp coverage. 



This finding underscores the otter's role as a keystone species, vital in maintaining the health and balance of kelp ecosystems. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-nbsp">Broader implications&nbsp;</h2>



"Today, extreme heat in the ocean is intense and persistent. Beginning a decade ago, this threat now affects more than half the ocean's surface," said study senior author Kyle Van Houtan, a research scientist at Duke University.



"This is a major problem for kelp forests as chronic temperature stress undermines kelp growth and health. Ecosystems are complex, and to give them their best chance at surviving these extreme changes, they need all their component parts. Sea otters, of course, are hugely influential for Pacific kelp forests. Historical studies like this are a crucial demonstration of this dynamic over the long term."



The study not only reinforces the importance of conserving the southern sea otter but also highlights the potential of nature-based solutions in restoring kelp forests.&nbsp;



Healthy kelp forests provide numerous benefits, such as serving as nursery grounds for fisheries, mitigating coastal erosion, and aiding in carbon storage. 



The reintroduction of sea otters to their historical ranges could be pivotal in reviving these ecosystems along more stretches of the California coast.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pclm.0000290" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS Climate</a>.



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Sea otters have protected kelp forests for a century 

A study from Monterey Bay Aquarium has shed light on...

Lake,And,Palms,,Mahe,Island,,Seychelles

Recent research has uncovered a notable trend: human settlement significantly alters the uniqueness of island plants.



The study reveals that over the last 3,000 years, human migration to the South Pacific has led to a marked decrease in the diversity of plant species across various islands, a phenomenon scientists term 'homogenization'.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humanity-s-impact-on-the-natural-world">Humanity's impact on the natural world</h2>



This research was spearheaded by Dr. Nichola Strandberg of the <a href="https://www.southampton.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southampton</a>, in collaboration with several international institutions.



Dr. Strandberg, reflecting on the study, notes, “Our study demonstrates that in small island groups, human occupation is a driving force behind the homogenization of flora." 



This finding highlights the profound impact human actions have on the natural world, especially in regions like the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/treasure-trove-of-fungi-discovered-on-a-south-pacific-island/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">South Pacific</a>. 



Although the study focuses on this area, its implications could extend to the hundreds of thousands of other small islands globally.



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



The research team, comprising experts from Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and the USA, meticulously analyzed fossil pollen records from 15 swamp and lake sites across 13 <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/noumea-in-the-south-pacific-archipelago-of-new-caledonia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">South Pacific</a> islands. 



By comparing the composition of plant life before and after human colonization, they were able to discern the extent of human influence on island ecosystems.



Historically, human migration to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/blenny-fish-survive-rocks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">South Pacific</a> occurred in two waves. The initial migration, approximately 3,500 to 2,800 years ago, affected western Polynesia, Melanesia, and Samoa. 



The subsequent wave, occurring around 1,000 to 700 years ago, saw human expansion to more remote islands, including French Polynesia, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Hawaii, and Aotearoa (New Zealand). These islands had not been previously inhabited.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-island-flora-modified-by-invasive-plants">Island flora modified by invasive plants</h2>



The study found that human settlers quickly modified the local flora, introducing non-native plants and animals and engaging in activities such as agriculture, settlement building, and land clearing through fire. 



These actions led to some plant species dwindling or facing extinction, reducing the distinctiveness of the plant species across these islands.



Interestingly, the study also observed that areas at higher elevations tended to retain more unique flora, likely due to less human habitation and impact in these regions.



Professor David Sear, who co-supervised the research alongside Professor Mary Edwards, Professor Peter Langdon, and Dr. Sandra Nogué, heads a broader project aimed at understanding the impact of climate and other natural disturbances on the migration and settlement of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-pacific-island-vegetation-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pacific islands</a>.



Commenting on the broader implications of the study, Professor Sear states, “The implications of this research are that human arrival rapidly impacted the floral communities on tropical islands that previously showed great variety in their native flora, owing to their dispersed and isolated locations." 



He further explains how the Polynesian and Lapita peoples reshaped their islands to support their populations, inadvertently homogenizing the previously diverse tropical island flora.



In summary, this research offers valuable insights for Pacific islanders. The study helps them understand how their ancestors adapted to climate changes and natural hazards, and the ways they altered the landscapes they inhabited.



These findings underscore the profound and lasting impact human activities have on our planet's ecosystems, particularly in isolated and diverse regions such as the South Pacific islands.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-023-02306-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Ecology and Evolution</a>.



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Plant life on islands loses diversity when humans arrive

Recent research has uncovered a notable trend: human settlement significantly...

<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=2E0mn5mTvhQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that scientists never expected.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-waters-beneath-ancient-craters">Hidden waters beneath ancient craters</h2>



Scientists have made a startling discovery that challenges everything we thought we knew about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturn-moon-mimas-has-remarkably-young-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saturn's moon Mimas</a>. Beneath the heavily cratered surface that earned it the nickname "Death Star" lies a global ocean that formed just 5 to 15 million years ago—a remarkably young age by cosmic standards.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cassini-data-reveals-orbital-secrets">Cassini data reveals orbital secrets</h2>



The discovery, led by Dr. Valéry Lainey of the <a href="https://observatoiredeparis.psl.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Observatoire de Paris</a>, emerged from careful analysis of <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>'s Cassini spacecraft data. By studying subtle irregularities in Mimas's orbit around Saturn, researchers detected the gravitational signature of liquid water hidden 20 to 30 kilometers beneath the moon's icy shell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unlikely-ocean-world">An unlikely ocean world</h2>



At only 400 kilometers in diameter, Mimas seemed like the least likely candidate to harbor a subsurface ocean. Unlike other ocean moons such as Europa and Enceladus, which show clear surface signs of internal activity, Mimas displays no obvious hints of the liquid water beneath its ancient, crater-scarred exterior.



"Mimas is a small moon, and its heavily cratered surface gave no hint of the hidden ocean beneath," explained Dr. Nick Cooper from <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a>, a study co-author.



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



The ocean's recent formation makes Mimas a prime target for studying how oceans develop and potentially support life. This discovery adds another member to the exclusive club of ocean worlds in our solar system, each offering unique insights into the conditions necessary for habitability.



The research, published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a> journal, demonstrates how advanced orbital analysis can reveal hidden features of celestial bodies, opening new possibilities for understanding ocean formation throughout the cosmos.



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Scientists discover unexpected young ocean on Saturn's cratered moon Mimas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ 'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that...

<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...

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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.

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</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.

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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...

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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?

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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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