A new study from <a href="https://www.osu.edu/">Ohio State University</a> reveals what is going on inside of your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-brain-interactions-have-an-influence-on-diseases/">brain</a> when you get lost in a fictional fantasy. The experts discovered that the more immersed we become in the lives of our favorite characters of fiction, the more our brain activity reflects how much we identify with them.
&#8220;When they think about a favorite fictional character, it appears similar in one part of the brain as when they are thinking about themselves,&#8221; said study lead author Timothy Broom.
The research was focused on self-described fans of the HBO series &#8220;Game of Thrones.&#8221; The individuals were instructed to think about themselves, nine of their friends, and nine characters from the drama series. The participants also reported on which character they felt closest to and liked the most.
According to Broom, Game of Thrones was ideal for this study because it attracted a devoted fan base and the large cast presented a variety of characters that people could become attached to.
One of the key findings involved participants who scored highest on &#8220;trait identification.&#8221; These individuals agreed most strongly with statements like &#8220;I really get involved in the feelings of the characters in a novel.&#8221;
&#8220;People who are high in trait identification not only get absorbed into a story, they also are really absorbed into a particular character,&#8221; said Broom. &#8220;They report matching the thoughts of the character, they are thinking what the character is thinking, they are feeling what the character is feeling. They are inhabiting the role of that character.&#8221;
The researchers used an fMRI machine to measure activity in various parts of the brain through small changes in blood flow. As the participants&#8217; brains were scanned, they were evaluating themselves, their friends, and Game of Thrones characters. 
A part of the brain called the ventral medial prefrontal cortex (vMPFC) is known to show increased activity when people think about themselves and, to a lesser extent, when they think about close friends.
While in the fMRI, the individuals were shown a series of names &#8211; including themselves, friends, or characters &#8211; along with a trait, such as lonely, sad, trustworthy, or smart. The participants simply said &#8220;yes&#8221; or &#8220;no&#8221; to imply whether the trait fit the person.
As expected, the vMPFC was most active when people were evaluating themselves, less active when they evaluated friends, and least active when they evaluated characters from Game of Thrones.
However, among those who were high in trait identification, the vMPFC was more active when they thought about the fictional characters than it was for participants who identified less with the characters. This region of the brain was particularly active when the individuals evaluated the character they identified with the most.
Study co-author Dylan Wanger said the findings help explain how fiction can have such a big impact on some people.
&#8220;For some people, fiction is a chance to take on new identities, to see worlds though others&#8217; eyes and return from those experiences changed,&#8221; said Wagner.
&#8220;What previous studies have found is that when people experience stories as if they were one of the characters, a connection is made with that character, and the character becomes intwined with the self. In our study, we see evidence of that in their brains.&#8221;
The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/scan">Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience</a>.
&#8211;&#8212;
By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

What happens in your brain while you're lost in fiction

The mortar, pestle, and cutting board you use in your kitchen today are modern tools rooted in ancient tradition. Long before stainless steel and ceramic surfaces, people used manos and metates - stone tools designed to grind plants and seeds into edible forms.



A mano is a handheld stone, used in tandem with a metate, which is a flat slab or natural rock depression. Some of these bedrock grinding surfaces date back as far as 15,500 years and appear in clusters across archaeological sites around the world.



Recently, scientists from the <a href="https://www.utah.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Utah</a>, working through the Natural History Museum of Utah (NHMU), have begun using innovative techniques to extract microscopic plant residues from these ancient bedrock metates.



By doing so, they’re uncovering details about the diets and lives of the people who used them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-deeper-into-ancient-tools">Looking deeper into ancient tools</h2>



“People have lived here for time immemorial and have been processing native plants on ground <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stone-tool-discovery-challenges-entire-theory-of-human-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stone tools</a> for a long time too,” said archaeobotanist Stefania Wilks, a research assistant at NHMU and graduate student at the University of Utah.



Her work focuses on identifying food and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/narrowing-the-search-for-new-medicinal-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">medicinal plants</a> processed in the past to understand both traditional lifeways and how landscapes have shifted over time.



Wilks is part of a team working with NHMU’s Curator of Archaeology, Lisbeth Louderback, also a professor of anthropology at the University of Utah. Together, they’re focusing on something extraordinarily small: starch granules.



These are microscopic structures within plant cells used to store energy. Some are so tiny that even the largest are still smaller than a tenth of a millimeter.



Because they’re so small, starch granules can’t be seen with the naked eye. The researchers have to extract them from surfaces where plants were once processed - like pottery, basketry, and now, bedrock metates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-matter-in-ancient-bedrock">Plant matter in ancient bedrock</h2>



Louderback suspected that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bedrock-may-be-secretly-supplying-trees-with-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bedrock</a> metates, despite being exposed to the elements, might still contain preserved plant matter.



Specifically, she believed that deep crevices in the stone might be hiding starch granules that people unknowingly pushed into the rock while grinding food.



“Through their actions of grinding and mashing, people would have forced these starches down deeper into the stone,” Wilks explained.



The bedrock metates themselves come in many forms. In Utah, they’re often long grooves in sandstone. In other areas, they may be bowl-shaped or resemble a modern-day mortar.



While they may not catch the eye like arrowheads or pottery, they are commonly found in groups and can be rich with information.



“They aren’t sexy like an arrowhead, but they still contain valuable information about what plants people processed in the past," said Wilks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-digging-into-the-dirt-microscopically">Digging into the dirt - microscopically</h2>



The research team focused on southern Oregon, where metates are found along basalt outcrops and surrounded by thousands of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/negev-petroglyphs-ancient-art-rock-carvings-face-erosion-fungi-lichens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">petroglyphs</a>.



These sites are also home to culturally significant plants - especially geophytes, which have underground storage organs like roots and tubers.



Archaeologists once believed that ancient people went to these uplands mainly for hunting. Wilks wanted to test whether the grinding surfaces were actually used for plant processing. The team collected samples from both the surface and the crevices of the metates.



First, they used an electric toothbrush and water to scrub the top layer of the stone. Then they added a deflocculant, a cleaning agent similar to detergent, to release particles trapped deeper in the rock. 



Another round with the electric toothbrush followed. For comparison, they performed the same process on nearby rocks that weren’t used for grinding.



When examined under a microscope, the results were clear. The surface samples showed almost no starch granules - nor did the control rocks.



But the material from inside the metate crevices? Hundreds of granules.



“It increased our confidence that what we were seeing was direct evidence that different plant species with starchy organs were processed on the metate,” Wilks recalled.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-diets-recorded-in-bedrock">Ancient diets recorded in bedrock</h2>



With evidence in hand, the researchers began the meticulous process of identifying the starches. 



Wilks compared each granule’s shape and structure to modern examples of plants still found in the region. It was a slow and careful job, but worth the effort. The researchers identified starch granules from several plant families.



One common group was the carrot family, including plants known as biscuit root. They also identified wild grasses, likely wild rye, and members of the lily family. 



All of these plants have been - and in many cases still are - important food sources for local Indigenous communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-bedrock-holds-valuable-archives">Ancient bedrock holds valuable archives</h2>



“Starch analysis is helpful in studying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-diets-early-humans-richer-berries-nuts-plants-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human diets of the past</a> because some plant parts don’t preserve in the archaeological record,” Wilks said.



Root vegetables, for example, decay far faster than seeds or grains. By recovering starch granules from stone, archaeologists have a new way to piece together the food stories of ancient peoples.



These bedrock metates, often overlooked in archaeological surveys, are proving to be valuable archives of cultural history.



This new technique shows that even the most weathered stones can hold on to traces of the past. Each granule recovered tells a story - not just about what people ate, but how they lived, traveled, and used the land around them.



These simple tools, still hiding in plain sight, connect us to generations long gone but not forgotten.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/american-antiquity/article/starch-granule-evidence-for-biscuitroot-lomatium-spp-processing-at-upland-rock-art-sites-in-warner-valley-oregon/F33A2E88C9999D2786DBC45D89E9BF97" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Antiquity</a>.



Image Credit: Stefania Wilks, University of Utah



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What bedrock can tell us about ancient cooking and culture

The mortar, pestle, and cutting board you use in your...

Walk through any busy street, and you’ll hear it - music, playing from car windows, cafés, or earbuds. People love and enjoy music. It helps us celebrate, grieve, concentrate, and connect. But while we know how music makes us feel, we rarely ask why it makes us feel that way.



Why do <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/live-music-connects-people-emotionally-and-physically/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">melodies</a> spark joy? Why do rhythms move our bodies before we even think? Is our love for music something we learn, or does it go deeper?



A recent study published in Nature Communications brings new depth to this question. The research suggests that our ability to enjoy music is not simply a cultural product or personal habit. 



Scientists have now found that genetics also play a role in shaping how much pleasure we draw from music. That joy, it turns out, may be written in our DNA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-our-love-for-music-rooted-in-biology">Is our love for music rooted in biology?</h2>



For centuries, music has been <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-music-affects-a-babys-heartbeat-before-birth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more than entertainment</a>. It reflects who we are. It binds people across generations and geographies. It serves as an emotional outlet and a social bridge. 



Even Charles Darwin, fascinated by music's power, once said it "must be ranked amongst the most mysterious with which he is endowed." Despite its deep cultural presence, we still struggle to explain the origins of music enjoyment.



This new research, led by scientists at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mpi.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics</a>&nbsp;in the Netherlands, takes a scientific step forward. The international team set out to explore whether the pleasure people feel while listening to music is partly influenced by genetic differences.



“The answer to this big question has the potential to open a window into more general aspects of the human mind, such as how experiences become pleasurable,” said study first author and PhD candidate Giacomo Bignardi.



“We wanted to understand whether genetic differences between individuals can result in differences in the pleasure that people derive from music and what these differences can tell us about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-your-body-moves-to-music-even-if-you-dont-enjoy-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human musicality</a> in general.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strong-genetic-links-to-music-enjoyment">Strong genetic links to music enjoyment</h2>



To investigate, the researchers turned to twin studies - a powerful method in behavioral genetics. Identical twins share almost 100% of their DNA. Fraternal twins share about half.



By comparing similarities between these two groups, scientists can estimate how much genes contribute to a trait. If identical twins enjoy music in more similar ways than fraternal twins, then genetics likely play a part.



​The study was a collaboration between the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aesthetics.mpg.de/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Empirical Aesthetics</a>&nbsp;in Germany and the&nbsp;<a href="https://ki.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Karolinska Institutet</a>&nbsp;in Sweden.&nbsp;It involved data from more than 9,000 twins.​



Participants provided self-reports on how much pleasure they get from music - what researchers call music reward sensitivity.



They also answered questions about their general sensitivity to rewards and completed tasks that measured their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-has-the-power-to-change-the-mood-of-our-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">musical perception</a>, such as identifying pitch, melody, and rhythm.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-love-for-music-may-be-genetic">Love for music may be genetic</h2>



The findings were striking. The researchers estimated that about 54% of the variation in music reward sensitivity in the Swedish sample could be linked to genetic differences. 



That means more than half of the difference in how people respond to music may be inherited. This is a significant discovery. It implies that music enjoyment is not just a learned behavior or shaped by environment - it may be part of our biological design.



But the results went further. The researchers also found that the genes affecting music reward were not the same as those influencing general pleasure or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/live-music-evokes-stronger-emotions-than-streamed-music/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">musical skill</a>. 



That distinction is important. It means that enjoying music isn’t just about being musically talented or having a naturally cheerful personality. The capacity to feel joy from music stands apart.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-genes-for-different-experiences">Different genes for different experiences</h2>



As the research dug deeper, more complexity appeared. Music enjoyment is not one single experience. People find pleasure in different ways: some feel emotionally uplifted, others feel compelled to dance, while some enjoy making music with others. The genetic analysis reflected this richness.



The team found that different genetic pathways were associated with different aspects of music reward. This means that the genes influencing your emotional connection to music may differ from those that make you enjoy dancing to a beat or playing in a band.



“These findings suggest a complex picture in which partly distinct DNA differences contribute to different aspects of music enjoyment,” said Bignardi.



“Future research looking at which part of the genome contributes the most to the human ability to enjoy music has the potential to shed light on the human faculty that baffled Darwin the most, and which still baffles us today.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-music-enjoyment-is-inherited">Music enjoyment is inherited</h2>



This study reshapes how we think about the roots of musical pleasure. For years, scientists and philosophers treated music as a purely cultural artifact - something passed down through teaching and tradition. Now we see that biology plays a strong role.



The rhythm that makes your feet move or the melody that brings tears to your eyes may be part of your genetic inheritance.



That doesn’t mean culture or personal experience don’t matter. They still do. What we listen to and how we express our tastes remain deeply shaped by family, society, and personal history. But now, we can add another layer to the story: a biological one.



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



The study opens new possibilities. Future research may explore which regions of the genome are most involved. Scientists might one day discover genetic patterns linked to musical creativity or preference. Such findings could also have broader applications.



Understanding how our brains respond to music may offer clues to emotional regulation, mental health, or even cognitive development.



In the end, music continues to enchant, connect, and move us. This study reminds us that part of that magic might be found inside our genes - echoing across generations, written into the very code of our being.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-58123-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Some people are born to enjoy music more than others

Walk through any busy street, and you’ll hear it -...

For centuries, foie gras has graced the tables of royalty, chefs, and fine diners. Its creamy richness and deep flavor made it a culinary icon. But behind the luxury lies a harsh reality - one that has stirred protests, divided cultures, and triggered bans across nations.



Foie gras means “fatty liver” in French. Traditionally, it's made by force-feeding ducks or geese until their livers grow large and soft. Germany’s term, “Gänsestopfleber,” bluntly references its origins. 



Animal welfare groups have long opposed the practice. Cities like New York and countries like India have taken legal steps to limit or ban its production.



Still, demand has not vanished. Diners and chefs continue to admire foie gras for its taste and texture. The culinary world has struggled to find a satisfying, ethical replacement. Most plant-based or lab-grown <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-molecule-could-shape-the-future-of-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">versions</a> fall short in flavor or feel. 



But a group of scientists in Germany may have finally cracked the code.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recreating-foie-gras-without-cruelty">Recreating foie gras without cruelty</h2>



​At the&nbsp;Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research (<a href="https://www.mpip-mainz.mpg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MPI-P</a>)&nbsp;in Mainz, a team of physicists, chemists, and culinary enthusiasts teamed up for a bold experiment. With help from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sdu.dk/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southern Denmark</a>, they turned to data, microscopes, and texture analysis to reimagine foie gras without cruelty.​



The study's lead researcher, physicist Thomas Vilgis, also happens to be an avid home cook. He guided the group through months of food science and experimentation. The goal was simple but ambitious: to match the real thing in both flavor and mouthfeel - without harming animals.



“It has always been a goal to reproduce the taste and texture of real foie gras while not losing sight of animal welfare,” said Thomas Vilgis of MPI-P.



This wasn’t a culinary guessing game. They relied on precise tools to explore the microstructure of foie gras. Microscopes showed how fat settled in the liver and how collagen formed a soft, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frozen-food-new-thawing-methods-will-improve-safety-and-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supportive network</a>. 



They also used rheological tests to simulate the chewing process and melting sensation on the tongue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-makes-foie-gras-unique">What makes foie gras unique</h2>



The research showed that foie gras isn't just fatty liver - it’s a delicate balance of collagen, fat, and moisture. The collagen gives it structure and softness, while irregular fat clumps create its creamy, melt-away finish.



With these details in hand, the team began crafting their version. They started by simmering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flowers-as-food-how-ultrasound-makes-it-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">collagen</a>-rich tissues such as animal skin, which could provide that tender texture. Then, they added liver and fat in different ratios, trying to mimic the original’s complexity.



However, each batch left something missing. The texture didn’t quite match. The mouthfeel was either too firm or too smooth. Collagen tweaks helped only slightly. After many failed attempts, the experts realized they needed a new strategy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-turning-to-nature-for-a-clue">Turning to nature for a clue</h2>



The breakthrough came with a small but powerful idea. They introduced goose lipases - natural enzymes used by birds to break down fat in their digestive systems. These enzymes had never been used in this context before.



By treating the fat with these enzymes, the team saw immediate changes. The fat began forming larger, irregular clumps. These formations closely resembled what they observed in real foie gras under the microscope.



The mouthfeel changed dramatically. It now melted and coated the tongue just like the original. Collagen alone had not done the job, but the enzyme-altered fat transformed the entire product.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-ethical-copy-with-authentic-taste">An ethical copy with authentic taste</h2>



The texture wasn’t the only improvement. The flavor took a step forward, too. Though still a prototype, this enzyme-treated pâté tasted remarkably close to real foie gras. The team avoided using synthetic additives or artificial enhancers.



Vilgis pushed for a clean recipe. He focused on the basic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-pistachio-dna-is-shaping-the-future-of-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ingredients</a> and how to manipulate them using science. No extra chemicals. No flavor boosters. Just technique, temperature, and timing.



He has now filed a patent to protect this approach. Talks are underway to explore commercial production. Future phases may involve chefs and sensory scientists to fine-tune taste and aroma. For now, the product holds promise as the most authentic and ethical foie gras alternative yet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-gourmet-without-cruelty">Future of gourmet without cruelty</h2>



This research shows what happens when science, ethics, and passion collide. 



It opens a new chapter for culinary traditions that once depended on animal suffering. Rather than discard foie gras altogether, Vilgis and his team reimagined it from the ground up.



Their creation is not just a lab product - it’s a culinary experience built with care and precision. The research has been published in <a href="https://pubs.aip.org/aip/pof/article/37/3/037196/3340498/Foie-gras-pate-without-force-feeding" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physics of Fluids</a>, a journal more known for fluid dynamics than fine dining. But here, science and food met in harmony.



It’s too early to know how chefs and food lovers will receive this version. Yet, it offers a path where taste and ethics can finally share the same plate.



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Cruelty-free foie gras made with enzymes, not force-feeding

For centuries, foie gras has graced the tables of royalty,...

Medical science has come a long way, but heart disease continues to take a heavy toll. It remains the leading cause of death in the United States, responsible for one in every five deaths. 



While medications and surgeries help manage symptoms, they don’t reverse the underlying damage - prompting scientists to explore bold new frontiers, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-space-agencies-can-help-address-healthcare-challenges/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">including space</a>.



The heart has a limited ability to regenerate, and once its muscle tissue is injured, there’s no going back. That makes the road to recovery steep, especially for patients in the final stages of heart failure.



For many, a heart transplant is the only hope — but donor hearts are few, and the waitlist grows. That reality has led scientists to explore regenerative medicine, and among the most promising areas is cardiac cell therapy. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-space-to-repair-the-human-heart">Using space to repair the human heart</h2>



At <a href="https://www.emory.edu/home/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emory University</a>, researcher Chunhui Xu asked a question few had considered: What if space could help us heal the human heart?



Inspired by an eye-opening seminar on space-based research, Xu discovered that cancer cells exposed to microgravity tend to grow faster and live longer. This wasn’t just fascinating - it hinted at a game-changing possibility.



If heart cells could respond in the same way, it might offer a solution to two critical problems in cardiac cell therapy: low production rates and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronauts-can-survive-mars-space-journey-but-their-kidneys-will-be-permanently-damaged/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">poor survival</a> after transplantation.



Xu’s lab turned this hypothesis into a series of experiments. After initial ground-based tests using simulated microgravity showed promise, they sent actual heart cells into orbit. Twice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-special-stem-cells-offer-hope">Special stem cells offer hope</h2>



The research centered on a specific type of cell: cardiomyocytes derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC-CMs). These cells offer something extraordinary. 



They can be generated in large numbers and have the potential to restore heart function. In animal studies, they’ve already shown that they can improve heart performance and even act like a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronauts-may-need-to-jump-for-better-knee-health-in-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological pacemaker</a>.



Yet despite their promise, hiPSC-CMs face a significant challenge. When introduced into damaged heart tissue, most of them die. Stressful conditions such as low oxygen levels in the heart make survival difficult. Since each patient may require over a billion cells, this poor survival rate becomes a major barrier.



Improving these cells’ ability to thrive in hostile environments has become a key focus for researchers. Xu believed that space might hold the key.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-journey-to-the-international-space-station">Journey to the International Space Station</h2>



​Xu’s team partnered with the&nbsp;<a href="https://issnationallab.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ISS National Laboratory</a>&nbsp;and launched cardiac spheroids to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/main/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Space Station</a> through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/mission/nasas-spacex-crew-8/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SpaceX Crew-8 mission</a>.​



These 3D cell structures, derived from hiPSCs, were thawed on Earth, then cultured in microgravity aboard the ISS for eight days.



While on the ISS, astronauts successfully maintained the beating spheroids, then returned them to Earth for detailed analysis. Remarkably, the cells maintained normal beating activity and calcium signaling, critical indicators of healthy cardiac function.



But the real discovery came through molecular analysis. Spaceflight had profoundly changed these cells on the inside.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-changes-heart-cell-genes-nbsp">Space changes heart cell genes&nbsp;</h2>



Upon their return, scientists used 3D live imaging and omics analysis to examine the cells’ inner workings. 



They found that spaceflight caused significant shifts in both protein levels and gene expression. Proteins linked to metabolism, mitochondrial function, and cell survival were all elevated.



Among the top upregulated proteins were those involved in handling cellular stress and enhancing survival. 



At the genetic level, the space-exposed cells showed increased activity in pathways tied to cardiac development, mitochondrial health, and essential metabolic functions like glutathione and glycerolipid metabolism.



These changes are not just academic. They indicate that spaceflight makes these cells stronger, more adaptable, and better suited for survival in the harsh environment of a failing heart.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-space-alters-everything">Why space alters everything</h2>



The microgravity of the ISS alters how cells behave. Previous studies had shown that stem cells can grow faster, differentiate more easily, and even gain therapeutic traits when cultured in orbit. Xu’s findings fit this pattern and push the field forward.



“The space environment provides an amazing opportunity for us to study cells in new ways,” said Xu.



“Our research on the ISS could allow us to develop a new strategy to generate cardiac cells more efficiently with improved survival when transplanted into damaged heart tissue, which would greatly benefit patients on Earth.”



That’s the true power of this research - not just stronger cells, but a new approach to therapy. By leveraging spaceflight, scientists can create heart cells that are better equipped to survive transplantation, potentially transforming cardiac treatment altogether.



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



The implications of this work go far beyond the lab. If space-grown <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/low-gravity-conditions-in-space-cause-heart-damage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiac cells</a> can survive and thrive where ordinary ones fail, they may become the foundation of a new era in regenerative medicine. 



Patients once facing a lifetime of medications or the uncertainty of a transplant might one day receive engineered heart tissue - grown in orbit, prepared for life on Earth.



Xu’s research stands at the intersection of hope and innovation. With each experiment, she and her team bring us closer to a future where damaged hearts can heal - not through machines or donors, but with the body’s own cells, shaped by the weightlessness of space.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0142961224006161?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biomaterials</a>.



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Heart cells grown in space may help heal damaged hearts

Medical science has come a long way, but heart disease...

In recent years, cold plunges have become a fixture on wellness feeds and gym schedules. People swear by them - claiming everything from mental clarity to faster recovery. But what does science say when you strip away the hype?



A team of researchers at the <a href="https://www.uottawa.ca/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Ottawa</a> has taken a closer look. Their work didn’t just explore how our bodies handle cold on the outside. It examined what happens on a much deeper level: inside your cells. 



The results of the study could shape how we think about cold exposure and its place in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organ-aging-can-predict-diseases-decades-in-advance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">everyday health</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cold-plunges-change-cells-in-one-week">Cold plunges change cells in one week</h2>



​The&nbsp;<a href="https://hepru.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit</a>&nbsp;conducted a tightly controlled experiment with ten healthy young men.​



Over seven days, each participant immersed himself in 14°C (57.2°F) water for one hour per day. Blood samples were drawn before and after the cold-water sessions on days 1, 4, and 7.



The aim wasn’t to measure surface-level outcomes like muscle soreness. Instead, the team analyzed peripheral blood mononuclear cells to examine cellular stress, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-a-protein-that-reverses-cellular-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recovery</a>, and resilience. 



They focused on autophagy (the body's way of cleaning out damaged components) and apoptosis (programmed cell death).



“Our findings indicate that repeated cold exposure significantly improves autophagic function, a critical cellular protective mechanism,” said Professor Kenny. “This enhancement allows cells to better manage stress and could have important implications for health and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/defying-time-three-ways-to-slow-biological-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">longevity</a>.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-cold-plunges-caused-stress">Early cold plunges caused stress</h2>



On the first day, the researchers found clear signs of stress. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/random-dna-mutations-shape-biological-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cells</a> showed an increase in proteins like p62, which typically accumulate when autophagy is disrupted. 



LC3-II, a marker of autophagic activity, did not increase. Apoptotic signaling also rose, with a marked spike in cleaved caspase-3, a protein that signals a cell is on its way to self-destruction.



This meant that initially, the cold exposure was overwhelming the cells. The natural repair systems weren't strong enough to counteract the damage. But that would begin to change by day four.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signals-of-cellular-recovery">Signals of cellular recovery</h2>



By the fourth day of immersion, early signs of adaptation emerged. LC3-II levels began to climb slightly, and p62 dropped - although still above baseline.



However, caspase-3 remained high, indicating the cells were still battling stress. The balance had not yet tipped in favor of full recovery.



“By the end of the acclimation, we noted a marked improvement in the participants’ cellular cold tolerance. This suggests that cold acclimation may help the body effectively cope with extreme environmental conditions," explained King, the study's first author.



Day seven marked a significant change. LC3-II rose substantially, showing robust autophagic activity. p62 dropped below baseline. Caspase-3 levels returned to near normal. The cells had started to regulate themselves more efficiently, showing they had adapted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cellular-learning-confirmed">Cellular learning confirmed</h2>



To take it further, the researchers tested the participants’ blood cells in cold conditions outside the body - before and after the week-long immersion routine.



Known as ex vivo testing, this allowed the team to simulate hypothermic states (temperatures as low as 4°C) without endangering the volunteers.



Before acclimation, these tests revealed poor autophagic responses and increased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-reverse-aging-a-bold-new-approach-could-reprogram-cells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">apoptosis</a> across all cold conditions. 



But after the seven-day program, LC3-II increased significantly at every temperature below 35°C. Apoptotic signals, particularly cleaved caspase-3, decreased, while p62 remained lower across the board.



These shifts showed that cells had become better at handling cold stress, even when removed from the body. It wasn’t just temporary resistance - it was programmed cellular behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cold-plunges-triggered-stress-proteins">Cold plunges triggered stress proteins</h2>



While tracking autophagy and apoptosis, the researchers also looked at heat shock proteins - namely HSP70 and HSP90. These proteins help stabilize other proteins during stress. Both increased during cold immersion but did not change significantly across the seven days.



This suggests that the cold exposure was enough to activate them, but the level of stimulus did not escalate throughout the week. Instead, it’s possible the body tuned its internal systems to respond more efficiently without ramping up these proteins further.



“This work underscores the importance of acclimation protocols in enhancing human health, especially in contexts where individuals are exposed to extreme temperatures,” noted Professor Kenny.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cooling-curve-and-shivering-clues">Cooling curve and shivering clues</h2>



Besides cellular markers, physiological changes supported the idea of adaptation. 



By day seven, participants had smaller increases in blood lactate levels - indicating less shivering. The body was becoming more efficient at conserving heat without relying on rapid muscle contractions.



Cooling rates slowed too. Participants took longer to reach the cutoff esophageal temperature of 35.5°C. While core temperature didn’t differ much across days, these smaller indicators confirmed the shift in cold tolerance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-and-death-inside-a-cell">Life and death inside a cell</h2>



Interestingly, at colder temperatures (33°C and below), both autophagic and apoptotic signals rose post-acclimation. 



This dual response could mean cells were trying to survive using every tool available. When stress surpassed a certain threshold, even enhanced autophagy wasn’t enough to prevent some cells from progressing toward death.



This mirrors findings in animal models, where excessive autophagy can trigger cell death if damage is too severe. The takeaway? Cold adaptation boosts protection, but it’s not a magic shield against extreme stress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cold-plunges-may-slow-cellular-aging">Cold plunges may slow cellular aging</h2>



"We were amazed to see how quickly the body adapted," said King. "Cold exposure might help prevent diseases and potentially even slow down aging at a cellular level. It's like a tune-up for your body's microscopic machinery."



While this research focused on healthy young males, it opens a door for broader inquiry. Could older adults benefit from structured cold exposure? What about people with chronic illnesses that impair autophagic function? These are next steps scientists are eager to explore.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cold-exposure-as-health-practice">Cold exposure as health practice</h2>



This study presents a strong case for integrating safe, structured cold exposure into wellness routines. 



Seven days of one-hour immersion changed how cells handled stress, repaired themselves, and avoided damage. It’s one of the first studies to show these changes at a molecular level in humans.



More research will help define guidelines: how cold, how long, and how often. But one thing is clear - the body learns. And when exposed with care, cold might not be something to avoid, but something to use.



Whether you're an athlete or just someone curious about longevity, this research suggests that the answer might be hiding in plain sight - or maybe, in a tub of ice water.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adbi.202400111" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Advanced Biology</a>.



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Cold plunges may keep you feeling alive and healthy longer

In recent years, cold plunges have become a fixture on...

The Levant region of the Middle East has long been recognized as a mixing pot of early humans and Neanderthals, some local and some on their way to and from other geographical regions. 



The many skeletal remains that have been found are characterized by high morphological diversity, but there is a consistency in the indicators of social and cultural behaviors.



Sites in the Levant give evidence of intentional burial of the dead, the interment of grave goods and the use of ochre at burial sites. 



This evidence of social and cultural behavior predates all other such evidence in the global record by tens of thousands of years.



In a recent study, researchers have analyzed unprecedented finds from Tinshemet Cave in Israel, in order to understand the relationship between Neanderthals and Homo sapiens during the mid-Middle Paleolithic. 



Remains of both of these hominin species are present at the site, but they appear to share common habits, technology and burial rites.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neanderthals-humans-and-tinshemet-cave">Neanderthals, humans, and Tinshemet Cave</h2>



The site has proved to be an&nbsp;archaeological&nbsp;and&nbsp;anthropological&nbsp;treasure&nbsp;trove, with its skeletons - some of which are almost complete - burial sites and artifacts associated with these burials. 



These are the first new Middle-Paleolithic (MP) human burials to be investigated in 50 years.



The new evidence from Tinshemet Cave indicates that these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-did-early-humans-first-start-wearing-clothes-and-why-parasites-lice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early humans</a> were not just neighbors but were actively sharing information, and influencing each other's survival techniques, toolmaking, and cultures. 



When the finds were compared with evidence from other Levant sites, they showed similar tools, the same placement of skeletons within burial sites, artifacts that were included for use in the afterlife, and the presence of ochre fragments throughout the deposits.



This indicates that, although different types of hominins were present, they all seemed to share common cultural and social practices. 



Clearly, the relationship between early humans and Neanderthals was more complex than originally thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-and-neanderthals-shared-culture">Humans and Neanderthals shared culture</h2>



Excavation of the Tinshemet Cave deposits has been ongoing since 2017. It is directed by Prof. Yossi Zaidner of the <a href="https://en.huji.ac.il/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hebrew University of Jerusalem</a>, Prof. Israel Hershkovitz of <a href="https://english.tau.ac.il/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tel Aviv University</a>, and Dr. Marion Prévost of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.



The primary objective of the researchers has been to unravel the nature of the relationship between Homo sapiens and Neanderthals during the mid-<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-evolution-overlapping/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Middle Paleolithic</a> period in this region. 



Was there a rivalry over resources between the two groups, or were they peaceful neighbors or collaborators?



The researchers integrated data from four essential fields - stone tool production, hunting strategies, symbolic behavior, and social complexity - for their study.



This integrated approach led to the inference that different human groups, including Neanderthals, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthal-evolution-was-more-complex-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pre-Neanderthals</a>, and Homo sapiens, all of which inhabited the Levant at various times, engaged in significant interactions.



These encounters enabled the exchange of knowledge and skills, which in turn led to the mixing of cultures among these populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-burial-rituals-shared">Burial rituals shared</h2>



The discovery of a cluster of human burials at the Tinshemet Cave also raises fascinating questions about the role this site played in MP society. 



Could this cave have been a dedicated burial ground or even a cemetery? 



The placement of artifacts such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/400000-year-old-stone-tools-show-technological-adaptations-of-prehistoric-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stone tools</a>, animal bones, and ochre chunks within the burial pits suggests early beliefs in the afterlife, implying the presence of shared societal rituals and strong communal bonds.



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



The discoveries at Tinshemet Cave offer a glimpse into a dynamic period of prehistoric human interaction, with evidence suggesting that Neanderthals and early humans not only coexisted but also influenced each other’s ways of life.



Professor Zaidner describes Israel as a "melting pot" where different human groups met, interacted, and evolved together. 



“Our data show that human connections and population interactions have been fundamental in driving cultural and technological innovations throughout history,” he explained.



Dr. Prévost highlighted the unique geographic position of the region at the crossroads of human dispersals.



“During the mid-MP, climatic improvements increased the region’s carrying capacity, leading to demographic expansion and intensified contact between different Homo taxa,” he said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-and-neanderthals-socially-complex">Humans and Neanderthals - socially complex</h2>



This demographic shift likely facilitated social exchanges that contributed to the shared technological and cultural advancements observed in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/115000-year-old-human-footprints-found-alathar-lake-arabian-peninsula/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">archaeological record</a>.



Prof. Hershkovitz commented that the interconnectedness of lifestyles among various human groups in the Levant suggests deep relationships and shared adaptation strategies. 



“These findings paint a picture of dynamic interactions shaped by both cooperation and competition.” 



The discoveries at Tinshemet Cave reinforce the notion that prehistoric human groups were not isolated entities but rather engaged in continuous exchanges that shaped their learning, survival, culture, and technological progress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-still-much-more-to-learn">Still much more to learn</h2>



The findings at Tinshemet Cave offer a fascinating glimpse into the social organization, symbolic practices, and everyday lives of early human populations. 



By excavating evidence of common burial practices, technological transfer, and potential cultural mixing between Neanderthals and Homo sapiens, scientists are rewriting the history of prehistoric coexistence.



As digs proceed, future discoveries might reveal further burial grounds, artifacts, or symbolic inscriptions that shed more light on the dynamics of interspecies interactions in this region.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-025-02110-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Human Behaviour</a>.



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Unexpected Neanderthal discovery permanently rewrites human history

The Levant region of the Middle East has long been...

Space journeys that stretch far beyond home are on the horizon. Crews heading for Mars will face conditions quite different from those on Earth, and researchers have been working to figure out what might happen to the human body during these extended voyages. 



Kidneys have been a big question mark. Recent work reveals that these important organs could face more trouble than previously assumed, including a higher risk of stones and lasting damage.



Several studies have hinted at health concerns for astronauts ever since humans first ventured outside Earth’s protective zone, but the new findings shed light on why such problems arise in the kidneys. 



Dr. Keith Siew from the <a href="https://www.londontubularcentre.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">London Tubular Centre</a>, based at the UCL Department of Renal Medicine, and his colleagues have pieced together a detailed picture of what happens when living beings - human and otherwise - experience space-like conditions for weeks to years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-missions-and-human-kidneys">Space missions and human kidneys</h2>



The latest study was conducted under a UCL-led initiative involving over 40 institutions on five continents.



The team considered data from 20 different research cohorts and samples linked to over 40 Low Earth orbit missions to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-says-the-international-space-station-is-too-clean-add-microbes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Space Station</a>, plus 11 simulations with mice and rats. 



The work is described as the largest analysis of kidney health in spaceflight so far and includes the first health dataset for commercial astronauts. 



It also involved seven simulations in which mice were exposed to radiation that mimicked up to 2.5 years of cosmic travel beyond <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s magnetic field</a>. 



Findings revealed that the structure and function of the kidneys are altered by spaceflight, with galactic radiation causing permanent damage that would jeopardize any long-distance mission.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kidneys-and-deep-space-radiation">Kidneys and deep space radiation</h2>



Astronauts in Low Earth orbit still benefit from partial shielding by our planet’s magnetic field. 



Only 24 people - the ones who went to the moon - have been exposed to the full brunt of Galactic Cosmic Radiation for short trips of about 6-12 days. 



Nobody has ventured on a years-long mission beyond the Earth’s magnetic boundary, so it was unclear how organs might hold up under <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/voyager-spacecraft-fighting-survival-cosmic-threats-outside-our-solar-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more extreme conditions</a>.



As part of the new study, researchers found that certain kidney tubules, which control delicate balances of salts and calcium, shrink after just a month in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microgravity-causes-big-problems-with-human-gene-expression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microgravity</a>. 



The kidneys also process salts in a way that increases the likelihood of kidney stone formation. 



This new insight shifts the focus away from an older assumption that stones in space result mainly from bone loss causing elevated calcium in urine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-longer-distance-more-radiation">Longer distance, more radiation</h2>



The research highlighted that cosmic radiation cannot be fully blocked by typical shielding. When mice were given doses of simulated <a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/phenomena/galactic-cosmic-rays" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Galactic Cosmic Radiation</a> equal to a mission length of up to 2.5 years, the animals showed irreversible kidney damage. 



Some of the key observations point to changes in how the kidneys manage vital minerals, which impacts long-term health during space travel.



“We know what has happened to astronauts on the relatively short space missions conducted so far, in terms of an increase in health issues such as kidney stones,” explained Dr. Siew. 



“What we don’t know is why these issues occur, nor what is going to happen to astronauts on longer flights such as the proposed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-curiosity-rover-finds-sulfur-crystals-martian-rock-hints-at-possible-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mission to Mars</a>.”



If scientists don’t develop new ways to protect the kidneys, any astronaut that makes it to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-organic-molecules-ever-found-on-mars-confirm-life-forming-chemistry-is-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a> will likely need dialysis on the way home or upon arrival.



"We know that the kidneys are late to show signs of radiation damage; by the time this becomes apparent it’s probably too late to prevent failure, which would be catastrophic for the mission’s chances of success," Dr. Siew concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-kidneys-and-future-space-travel">Human kidneys and future space travel</h2>



Space agencies have been aware since the 1970s that journeys outside our planet’s natural defenses lead to health concerns involving bones, eyes, and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-century-of-progress-in-the-fight-against-cardiovascular-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular system</a>. 



This new work puts fresh focus on the kidneys. It also highlights the importance of managing both microgravity and radiation, especially with more ambitious missions on the table.



“Our study highlights the fact that if you’re planning a space mission, kidneys really matter. You can’t protect them from galactic radiation using shielding," noted Professor Stephen B. Walsh from the London Tubular Centre, UCL Department of Renal Medicine.



"But as we learn more about renal biology it may be possible to develop technological or pharmaceutical measures to facilitate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-travel-has-unexpected-effects-on-gut-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extended space travel</a>."



Any drugs developed for astronauts may also be beneficial here on Earth. For instance, by enabling cancer patients’ kidneys to tolerate higher doses of radiotherapy, which is currently an impediment to that form of treatment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-next">What happens next?</h2>



Though this work only outlines organ changes up to two and a half years, it stands as the most comprehensive data currently available for that timescale. 



Researchers say that pinpointing these risks is a vital first step before reliable solutions can be introduced. 



The study’s international collaboration suggests momentum is building to safeguard astronauts’ kidneys, and future innovations could reach beyond space missions to help patients on Earth.



Experts note that learning how to handle the combined effects of microgravity and cosmic radiation will be key to making ambitious missions safer. 



With evidence pointing to serious kidney challenges, careful planning will be needed to keep crews healthy on journeys that last far longer than any undertaken before.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-49212-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Astronauts can survive a trip to Mars, but one crucial organ will likely fail

Space journeys that stretch far beyond home are on the...

Young,Woman,Drinking,Water,Outdoors,,Promoting,Healthy,Hydration,And,An

Plastic containers and packaging are everywhere, as many people rely on them for food storage, convenience, and hydration. Plastics have improved modern life in countless ways, but the ultimate price of this convenience is only now coming clearly into focus.



We have reached the point as a society where researchers have begun looking beyond the environmental hazards of plastic pollution to uncover hidden connections between plastic exposure and human well-being. 



Questions are emerging about how microplastics might be <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-chewing-gum-may-be-full-of-microplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">affecting our bodies</a> and whether this is something we should address.



Some everyday items, such as water bottles, may contribute far more than trash. They could be releasing tiny plastic particles that slip into our bodies. 



Early studies suggest that plastic particles are influencing human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-over-2000-genetic-markers-that-affect-blood-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blood pressure</a>, a condition linked to serious cardiovascular problems. 



According to Dr. Johanna Fischer from the Department of Medicine at <a href="https://www.dp-uni.ac.at/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Danube Private University</a> in Austria, a few recent findings have sparked new debates about what happens when microplastics flow through our bloodstream.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tiny-pieces-of-plastic-wreaking-havoc">Tiny pieces of plastic wreaking havoc</h2>



Microplastics measure less than 5 mm, arising from the breakdown of larger plastics or from everyday sources like car tires and synthetic clothing. 



They have been detected in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-pose-a-greater-threat-to-some-ocean-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food, water, and the air</a>. Scientists have identified them in the placenta, in certain organs, and even in the bloodstream. 



Their presence has raised concerns because they might trigger inflammation or hormonal imbalances. By entering daily routines unnoticed, these microscopic bits could pose health hazards that are still under investigation.



Recent work has pointed to an unexpected culprit for high blood pressure. Their investigations indicate that common water bottles can release particles into the liquid we drink. 



According to preliminary insights, microplastics can migrate into our system, with potential effects on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-smell-control-your-blood-pressure-new-research-says-yes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blood pressure measurements</a>. 



Investigators also discovered these minute fragments in glass containers, which complicates efforts to avoid them altogether. 



This points to a wider issue that stretches beyond visible waste and calls for innovative approaches to monitoring exposure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastics-linked-to-blood-pressure">Plastics linked to blood pressure</h2>



Eight healthy adults took part in a project aimed at exploring any links between plastics and blood pressure. 



They were asked to rely on tap water instead of bottled drinks for about a month. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-gold-the-vitamin-packed-fruit-that-regulates-blood-sugar-and-blood-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Blood pressure</a> readings were collected at the outset, after two weeks, and at the end of four weeks. 



The findings indicated that women showed a noticeable dip in blood pressure levels, particularly in diastolic readings, while men did not exhibit the same changes.



One explanation might be that only three men participated. That small number makes it difficult to form broad conclusions. 



Still, the overall data hint that cutting back on plastics could influence cardiovascular health by reducing the number of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-are-widespread-in-the-seafood-we-eat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic particles</a> present in the bloodstream. 



The research group emphasizes that larger trials are needed. They aim to measure the actual concentration of microplastics in the blood, providing a clearer picture of how plastic exposure might relate to changes in blood pressure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blood-pressure-and-plastics-the-results">Blood pressure and plastics - the results</h2>



“We concluded, after extensive research, that beverages packaged in plastic bottles should be avoided,” the research team warned. 



The changes observed in blood pressure suggest that reducing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-in-the-brain-alarming-new-details-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intake of plastic particles</a> could lower cardiovascular risk, emphasizing how these findings may fit into the bigger picture. 



For these scientists, a lower exposure to plastics seems to correlate with improvements in some blood pressure markers.



By stating that “plastic particles <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-in-every-semen-sample-tested/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">present in the bloodstream</a> could contribute to increased blood pressure,” the team highlighted a potential link between microplastics and cardiovascular concerns. 



Although their study involved only a small group, they view the results as a motivation to investigate these interactions further. 



While the precise pathways remain unclear, the prospect that tiny plastic fragments might affect blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health should encourage us all to rethink these common habits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-next">What happens next?</h2>



Because hypertension is a leading cause of heart complications, any factor that might raise blood pressure deserves scrutiny. 



Humans already face multiple risks for cardiovascular disease, so identifying one that might be avoidable is compelling. 



Limiting bottled beverages or opting for tap water in reusable non-plastic containers will definitely help reduce exposure, though additional verification is needed to confirm the long-term impacts.



Reviewing many different studies, it's very clear that microplastics have infiltrated every nook and cranny of our bodies, natural environments, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sounding-the-alarm-microplastics-are-disrupting-photosynthesis-around-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global ecosystems at large</a>. 



On top of high blood pressure and other cardiovascular health issues that arise from the consumption of microplastics, scientists and physicians are concerned about inflammation, endocrine problems, and oxidative stress, all of which can harm overall health. 



Though the convenience of disposable products is tempting, making a personal choice of removing single-use plastics from our everyday lives will undoubtedly yield benefits - both for our health and the global environment. 



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2673-8929/3/3/26" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microplastics</a>.



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Drinking from plastic bottles directly linked to high blood pressure and heart problems

Plastic containers and packaging are everywhere, as many people rely...

It’s not much of a stretch to say that Earth’s inner structure, especially the innermost spherical core, has stupefied scientists for generations. It sits over 3,000 miles below the surface, smaller than the Moon yet massive enough to play a big part in Earth’s magnetic field. 



A recent study in Nature Geoscience points to changes that started around 2010, suggesting Earth's inner core’s spin was slowing. 



In effect, it was found to be to be reversing and backtracking relative to the planet’s surface. This discovery has sparked fresh conversations about how the planet’s interior behaves over time.



Geophysicists have used <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-detect-major-earthquakes-months-in-advance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthquake signals</a> from nearly every continent to probe the inner core, which is surrounded by a swirling layer of liquid metal. Findings point to structural shifts in the iron sphere that raise new questions. 



After two decades of debate, investigators feel more confident linking these signals to an actual slowdown rather than an imagined event. 



<a href="https://dornsife.usc.edu/profile/john-vidale/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">John Vidale</a>, Dean’s Professor of Earth Sciences at the <a href="https://dornsife.usc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USC Dornsife College</a> of Letters, Arts and Sciences, worked on the project with Wei Wang of the <a href="https://english.cas.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Sciences</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innermost-layers-of-earth-s-interior">Innermost layers of Earth's interior</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/continent-sized-islands-llsvp-found-inside-earth-are-100-times-taller-than-mount-everest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s interior</a> can be divided into several layers: the crust, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunken-worlds-discovered-under-the-pacific-ocean-in-earths-mantle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the mantle</a>, the liquid outer core, and the solid inner core at the center. Many scientists have studied how the inner core moves relative to the mantle and crust. 



Some found evidence that the core once rotated faster than the rest of Earth. Others noticed it might be easing up. 



The latest data points to “unambiguous evidence” of a slower pace starting around 2010, landing it at a speed slightly below that of Earth’s surface.



“When I first saw the seismograms that hinted at this change, I was stumped. But when we found two dozen more observations signaling the same pattern, the result was inescapable," Vidale explained. 



"The inner core had slowed down for the first time in many decades. Other scientists have recently argued for similar and different models, but our latest study provides the most convincing resolution.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-records-from-earthquakes-and-nukes">Records from earthquakes and nukes</h2>



Researchers rely on waves generated by earthquakes to examine the farthest corners of our planet. These waves pass through the inner core, reflecting minute details about its movement and shape. 



For their analysis, the team gathered readings from 121 repeating earthquakes originating near the South Sandwich Islands between 1991 and 2023. 



They also tapped into data from Soviet nuclear tests conducted between 1971 and 1974, as well as repeated French and American nuclear tests.



Vidale attributes the pace shift to the “churning of the liquid iron outer core that surrounds it, which generates <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s magnetic field</a>, as well as gravitational tugs from the dense regions of the overlying rocky mantle.” 



Investigators think these forces may slightly affect day length. “It’s very hard to notice, on the order of a thousandth of a second, almost lost in the noise of the churning oceans and atmosphere.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-inner-core-is-backtracking">Earth's inner core is "backtracking"</h2>



Some prior research indicated that the inner core might be reversing itself. The new results add weight to that possibility by suggesting the core’s rotation has slowed and even begun shifting direction compared to Earth’s outer layers. 



Vidale “didn’t set out to define the physical nature of the inner core.” Yet the project unexpectedly uncovered more than just a slowdown in rotation. 



“What we ended up discovering is evidence that the near surface of Earth’s inner core undergoes structural change,” Vidale said.



Shifting layers deep underground might explain certain fluctuations in day length, but these effects are so slight that most people never detect them. 



The team believes dynamic interactions between the liquid outer core and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ringwoodite-mineral-confirms-vast-ocean-exists-400-miles-under-earths-crust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dense mantle zones</a> drive these shifts, making the inner core’s movement appear to switch course from time to time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-clues-from-seismograms">Surprising clues from seismograms</h2>



“But as I was analyzing multiple decades’ worth of seismograms, one dataset of seismic waves curiously stood out from the rest,” Vidale said. 



He and his colleagues analyzed waveforms picked up by monitoring stations in places like Fairbanks, Alaska, and Yellowknife, Canada. 



“At first the dataset confounded me,” Vidale said. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/earth-inner-core_less-solid_USC_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/earth-inner-core_less-solid_USC_1s.webp" alt="Diagram showing the Earth's inner core, once thought to be solid. Credit: USC" class="wp-image-1963609"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Diagram showing the Earth's inner core, once thought to be solid. Click to enlarge. Credit: USC</figcaption></figure>



Modern techniques have since sharpened the picture, indicating that the inner core’s boundary may go through slow changes in shape caused by viscous deformation.



“What we’re observing in this study for the first time is likely the outer core disturbing the inner core,” Vidale said. 



Rather than acting like a rigid ball locked in place, the inner core seems to adapt over intervals that current seismic devices are finally able to capture. 



Scientists suspect this iron center may shift in ways that influence the planet’s magnetic field, given how much of that field is generated by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-earths-mantle-shapes-surface-topography/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">liquid outer region</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-earth-s-inner-core-matter">Why does Earth's inner core matter?</h2>



Experts at USC aim to track the core’s patterns more precisely in the years ahead. They plan to zero in on subtle signals that show how the inner core’s shape evolves. 



They hope this effort might offer a clearer picture of the underlying forces behind any reversing motion, including interactions that appear to adjust the core’s boundaries.



While Earth's inner core is often portrayed as static and solid, these fresh observations add nuance. Repeating earthquakes provide a valuable peek at what’s happening in an environment most people can only imagine. 



The research team believes that following waveforms from future quakes could unlock details about how Earth’s center changes over time. 



Vidale said the focus is on mapping these movements in ways that help scientists see what triggers the shifts in speed and form.



The new waveforms expand the broader conversation on Earth’s mechanics. Certain aspects, like magnetic fluctuations and temperature gradients, may link back to the inner core’s pace. 



Though the planet’s center remains out of reach, these findings reveal a place that is much more active than once believed.



The full study from 2024 was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07536-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



The full study from February 2025 was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-025-01642-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>.



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Proof: Earth's inner core is rapidly changing and now 'rotating backwards'

It’s not much of a stretch to say that Earth’s...

Healthy eating has always been a hotly debated topic, but fresh findings now connect balanced meals in midlife to a stronger chance of enjoying life in one’s later years.



Experts have long studied how food choices can offset chronic issues, and they keep exploring ways to maximize overall well-being without adopting overly restrictive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-diet-shifts-the-hidden-costs-of-what-we-eat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diets</a>.



One recent <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-025-03570-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">investigation</a> followed more than 105,000 Americans in their journey from midlife through senior status, over three decades. The study closely examined the impact of daily eating habits on long-term health.



One of the lead investigators is Professor Anne-Julie Tessier from the <a href="https://www.umontreal.ca/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Montreal</a>. She wanted to see whether smart nutrition could boost the odds of turning 70 with steady mental, physical, and cognitive abilities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-midlife-eating-patterns">Midlife eating patterns</h2>



“Studies have previously investigated dietary patterns in the context of specific diseases or how long people live,” said Frank Hu, a professor of nutrition and epidemiology at Harvard Chan School.



“Ours takes a multifaceted view, asking, how does <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-you-eat-can-literally-change-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diet</a> impact people’s ability to live independently and enjoy a good quality of life as they age?"



Participants gravitating toward vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains tended to avoid critical illnesses like diabetes or heart disease more often. 



This concept of healthy aging, which includes freedom from serious chronic issues and solid mental and physical function, is recognized by the <a href="https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/186463" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Health Organization</a> for emphasizing longevity with vitality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-healthy-diets-can-be-personalized">Healthy diets can be personalized </h2>



The researchers examined a range of eating strategies, each emphasizing nutritious foods and lower intake of sweets, refined grains, and processed meats.



These patterns often highlighted plant-based staples, modest amounts of lean animal protein, and reduced sodium - all designed to align with established guidelines for better health.



“Our findings also show that there is no one-size-fits-all diet. Healthy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-changes-in-diet-can-greatly-reduce-your-carbon-footprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diets</a> can be adapted to fit individual needs and preferences,” said Professor Tessier.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-impact-of-processed-foods">Health impact of processed foods</h2>



“Since staying active and independent is a priority for both individuals and public health, research on healthy aging is essential,” said study co-author Marta Guasch-Ferré, who is an associate professor at the <a href="https://www.ku.dk/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Copenhagen</a>.



The experts also observed that certain participants consumed more packaged snacks, sugary beverages, and ready-to-eat <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ditch-the-diet-trends-for-a-healthier-relationship-with-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meals</a>, which frequently contain excessive sodium, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives.&nbsp;



High intake of these convenience items was connected to lower rates of physical mobility, weaker mood regulation, and more prevalent health complications as people aged. 



Those who opted for fresher, less refined foods generally reported easier movement, stable cognitive function, and fewer day-to-day difficulties throughout their 70s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-midlife-eating-affects-health-after-70">Midlife eating affects health after 70</h2>



Remaining energetic beyond 70 involves more than dodging conditions like heart attacks or cancer; it also means sustaining the ability to get around and maintain positive mental health. 



A diet rich in fiber, vitamins, and protective minerals seems to support clearer thinking, stronger muscles, and steadier emotions.



According to the research team, midlife is a window when many people can still modify their routines, making it a perfect stage to bolster long-term well-being. 



By prioritizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other nutrient-dense choices, adults might improve their odds of staying vibrant well into their eighth decade.



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



Most of the volunteers were employed in healthcare, which may mean they already had above-average awareness about nutrition, self-care, and disease prevention. 



This could shape how representative the findings are for the general population, particularly for those in jobs where health education is less emphasized or resources are limited.



Moreover, the project did not thoroughly address additional influences like stress, sleep, or environmental exposures that can also impact how people age. 



The authors note that further investigation across different groups and regions is needed to confirm how these dietary habits translate to wider communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-better-health-in-later-life">Better health in later life</h2>



Despite the study’s limitations, scientists believe these observations could inform guidelines that focus on plant-heavy menus while including moderate portions of fish, poultry, and certain dairy products. 



Such balanced recommendations might help preserve independence by cutting back on diseases and supporting stable brain and muscle function in later life.



Eventually, specialists may consider genetic factors and personal preferences to tailor meal plans for individuals, aiming to optimize health at every life stage. 



Combined with better access to wholesome foods in workplaces, schools, and local markets, this approach might support millions in aging with fewer setbacks and more comfort.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-midlife-eating-for-healthy-aging">Midlife eating for healthy aging</h2>



Some experts suggest gradually replacing sugary drinks with water or tea, and picking whole grains over refined bread or pasta. 



Even small steps, such as cooking more meals at home and keeping an eye on salt content, can shift eating habits toward healthier patterns.



Others highlight the advantage of planning grocery lists around staples like leafy greens, nuts, and lean proteins to curb impulse buys that derail good intentions. A simple focus on minimally processed items appears to go a long way in creating a diet that supports healthy aging.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-025-03570-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Medicine</a>.



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Eating better in midlife helps you age with strength

Healthy eating has always been a hotly debated topic, but...

For centuries, sharks have stirred fear and fascination. They glide through water with quiet power. Unlike whales or dolphins, they never seem to speak. Scientists assumed that sharks lived in a world of silence - masters of stealth with no sound.



That idea was rooted in biology. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-third-of-shark-species-face-extinction-despite-fishing-bans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sharks</a> lack swim bladders, organs that help many fish produce sound. 



They also don’t have vocal cords or specialized structures like drumming muscles. So the conclusion felt safe: sharks don’t make noise.



But nature is full of surprises. A recent discovery made at the University of Auckland's <a href="https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/science/about-the-faculty/university-reserves/leigh-marine-laboratory.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leigh Marine Laboratory</a> has rewritten what we know about these ancient predators. 



Sharks might not be voiceless after all.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-first-recorded-shark-sounds">The first recorded shark sounds</h2>



In a study published in Royal Society Open Science, <a href="https://rs.figshare.com/articles/media/Data_1_from_Evidence_of_active_sound_production_by_a_shark/28596448?backTo=%2Fcollections%2FSupplementary_material_from_Evidence_of_active_sound_production_by_a_shark_%2F7720015&amp;file=52990585" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scientists shared the first known recordings</a> of active sound production by sharks. 



The species involved, the rig shark (Mustelus lenticulatus), is a small, bottom-dwelling shark native to New Zealand.



During routine hearing experiments, ten juvenile rig <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemical-clues-from-old-shark-jaws-reveal-diets-and-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> produced distinct clicking sounds when handled underwater. These weren’t random splashes or incidental noise. They were consistent, sharp clicks — deliberate and audible.



"Sharks have sensory systems that are more refined than their hearing, like their electroreceptors, their smell, and the way they propel themselves through the water… But I think the original notion that we had that sound isn't important at all is also likely not true," said Carolin Nieder, lead author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clicks-as-stress-or-warning-signals">Clicks as stress or warning signals</h2>



The clicks didn’t happen while the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-some-great-hammerhead-sharks-rarely-leave-home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> swam freely. They didn’t appear during feeding or rest. They only occurred when the sharks were briefly handled. Most clicks happened in the first ten seconds of handling and dropped off after that.



This suggests the sounds may be a reaction to stress. The sharks could be trying to defend themselves or confuse potential predators. Some clicks coincided with physical movements, like swaying or sudden bends. Others came with no visible movement.



The researchers counted an average of nine clicks per shark in a 20-second window. About three-quarters of those clicks were short, single-pulse bursts. The remaining were double-pulse clicks, produced in rapid succession.



“Maybe they weren't afraid for their lives anymore,” Nieder said, noting the decline in clicks over time. This behavior may resemble a natural escape tactic in the wild, used as a quick distraction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teeth-not-vocal-cords">Teeth, not vocal cords</h2>



So how do <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sharks-may-benefit-from-rising-temperatures-but-not-from-rising-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> make these sounds without sound-producing organs? The team examined this closely. Using microCT scans and detailed dissections, the researchers studied the cranial structure of the rig shark. The teeth emerged as the most likely mechanism.



Rig sharks have blunt, interlocking teeth arranged like flat plates. These teeth snap together during rapid jaw movements. This snapping action likely creates the broadband clicks observed in the study.



The sounds recorded had an average duration of 48 milliseconds, with frequencies between 2.4 and 18.5 kHz. 



Most clicks peaked around 9.6 kHz, far above the rig’s hearing threshold, which tops at around 800 Hz. Yet, the first burst of each click contained low frequencies that might be audible to the sharks themselves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-are-these-shark-sounds-meaningful">Are these shark sounds meaningful?</h2>



The purpose of the clicks remains uncertain. Are they a biological signal - a warning, alarm, or defensive cry? Or are they simply a byproduct of muscle contractions and jaw tension under stress?



The study notes that rigs did not produce sounds during other behaviors, like swimming or feeding. This supports the idea that the clicking is linked to disturbance, not daily communication.



Still, comparisons with other fish species are revealing. Teleost fish, like cod and piranhas, often emit clicks when threatened or approached by predators. These “predator-related” sounds serve no obvious communicative role but may momentarily confuse or startle attackers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-similar-sounds-in-other-species">Similar sounds in other species</h2>



This discovery also echoes recent findings in rays. Since 2022, several studies have reported click-like sounds in stingrays and skates when divers approached. 



Species like the mangrove whipray and the blonde ray produce sharp broadband clicks, seemingly in reaction to disturbance.



These clicks share many traits with the rig’s clicks: short duration, high frequency, and apparent links to stress. While the anatomical mechanisms may differ, the pattern is striking.



In rays, the movement of spiracles and fins has been observed during sound production. In rigs, however, no clear body movement could be linked directly to the clicks. This raises the need for better underwater observation - perhaps through close-up video - to pinpoint exactly how the sound is made.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-all-sharks-click">Not all sharks click</h2>



Interestingly, not all <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mediterranean-sharks-face-growing-threats-despite-conservation-efforts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> show this behavior. The study tested three dusky smoothhounds (Mustelus canis), close relatives of the rig. These sharks, when handled under the same conditions, produced no clicks.



This may point to differences in species behavior, evolutionary paths, or simply varying sensitivity to human presence. The dusky smoothhounds had been in captivity longer, which might explain their lack of response.



The researchers noted that Mustelus as a genus includes many species with similar tooth shapes. It’s possible that other species may also produce clicks under the right circumstances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-rig-sharks-hear-their-own-sounds">Can rig sharks hear their own sounds?</h2>



This question remains unresolved. Rigs are most sensitive to very low frequencies, far below the peak of their clicks. Yet, each click begins with a powerful burst that includes frequencies under 1 kHz. These lower frequencies may fall within the shark’s hearing range.



Whether the clicks carry a message for other sharks is unclear. But it’s possible the clicks aren’t meant for sharks at all. The energy-rich sounds could affect predators with better hearing, like toothed whales or large marine mammals. 



Some fish also produce similar sounds that deter or confuse predators, even if they aren’t always effective.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-voices-from-the-deep">New voices from the deep</h2>



For years, researchers assumed that sharks lacked the ability - or need - to make sound. This study shifts that narrative. It reveals not only a sound, but a potential signal - a cry, a warning, or perhaps an instinctive snap.



The rig shark now holds the title of the first confirmed sound-producing shark. And its clicks may not be alone for long. As scientists look closer, more species may reveal their hidden voices.



In the quietest corners of the ocean, even sharks might have something to say.



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<a href="https://rs.figshare.com/articles/media/Data_1_from_Evidence_of_active_sound_production_by_a_shark/28596448?backTo=%2Fcollections%2FSupplementary_material_from_Evidence_of_active_sound_production_by_a_shark_%2F7720015&amp;file=52990585" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click this link to hear the noises made by these sharks during the hunt...</a>



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsos.242212" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Society Open Science</a>.&nbsp;



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Sharks recorded making terrifying sounds while hunting - despite not having vocal cords

For centuries, sharks have stirred fear and fascination. They glide...

Population genetics can reveal surprising insights about the ancestry of any group, often challenging assumptions that have persisted for centuries. Japan is a prime example, with many believing its people descend from only two main lines of ancestry. 



New evidence now indicates that there may be a third strand woven into the country’s genetic heritage. Researchers are examining DNA clues and clinical data to piece together a bigger story, and the results are shaking up conventional wisdom on what it really means to be Japanese.



A paper published in the journal Science Advances presented findings that suggest a far more intricate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recreating-the-face-of-dragon-man-harbin-skull-denisovans-an-ancient-human-cousin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic tapestry</a> is involved in the ultimate ancestry of people in Japan than previously thought. 



The project behind this discovery is led by experts who investigated thousands of samples to paint a detailed picture of ancestry. 



After sifting through these clues, RIKEN’s Chikashi Terao and colleagues propose that a third group, the so-called Emishi people, is part of this fascinating blend.



Terao, who headed the study at RIKEN's <a href="https://www.riken.jp/en/research/labs/ims/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Integrative Medical Sciences</a>, explains, “Our analysis revealed Japan's subpopulation structure on a fine scale, which is very beautifully classified according to geographical locations in the country.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fresh-perspective-on-japanese-ancestry">Fresh perspective on Japanese ancestry</h2>



Researchers used whole-genome sequencing to analyze genetic information from more than 3,200 people across seven regions of Japan. 



This approach zooms in on all three billion DNA base-pairs, offering a much more comprehensive view compared to previous methods. 



Terao says, “Whole-genome sequencing gives us the chance to look at more data, which helps us find more interesting things.”



By examining the data, the team pinpointed differences that track with older population groups. Traditional narratives described only two main ancestral lines: the Jomon and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-study-reveals-secrets-of-weedy-rice-invasion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rice-farming</a> migrants from east Asia. 



The latest results identify a third source in the mix - people with connections to northeast Asia known as the Emishi. 



One key aspect of this research is the focus on subtle markers that illuminate how these historical groups spread out across the islands.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-japan-s-ancestry-gets-clues-from-jewel">Japan's ancestry gets clues from JEWEL</h2>



The Japanese Encyclopedia of Whole-Genome/Exome Sequencing Library (JEWEL) combines genetic material with related medical and family information. 



The researchers gathered this data to explore health links and ancestry, creating a resource that also sheds light on how certain diseases appear in distinct areas. 



Terao remarks, “We reasoned that rare variants can sometimes be traced back to specific ancestral populations, and could be informative in revealing fine-scale <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/timeline-early-humans-great-migration-reached-america-challenged-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration patterns</a> within Japan.”



According to the analysis, Jomon ancestry remains most prominent in Okinawa, appearing in 28.5% of the samples studied there, while it is lowest in western Japan at just 13.4%. 



Meanwhile, the study found that individuals in western regions have closer connections to Han Chinese people. 



The influx of migrants from east Asia between the year 250 and year 794 correlates with that finding. Emishi-related lineage appears strongest in the northeast, gradually dwindling as one moves westward.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rare-variants-and-their-role">Rare variants and their role</h2>



The study did more than trace broad patterns of ancestry. It also drilled down into uncommon gene variations to discover their potential involvement in various conditions. 



One particular variant of a gene called PTPRD has the potential to be highly damaging because it could be linked with hypertension, kidney failure, and myocardial infarction, according to Xiaoxi Liu, a senior scientist in Terao’s lab and the first author of the research. 



Additionally, significant incidences of variants in the GJB2 and ABCC2 genes were documented, tying them to hearing loss and chronic liver disease.



These clues demonstrate the practical potential of such extensive DNA surveys. By mapping rare changes, the researchers gain a sharper understanding of health outcomes, which may eventually guide new approaches to diagnosis or treatment. 



The JEWEL database thus provides a framework for aligning genetic signals with real-world health profiles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-from-neanderthals-and-denisovans">Clues from Neanderthals and Denisovans</h2>



The project also examined segments inherited from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tinshemet-cave-more-evidence-neanderthals-and-early-humans-interacted-socially/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neanderthals</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-denisovan-species-humans-lived-undisturbed-tibetan-plateau-160000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denisovans</a>, two archaic human groups that intermixed with Homo sapiens millennia ago. 



Terao states, “We are interested in why ancient genomes are integrated and kept in modern human DNA sequences.” 



The team identified 44 ancient DNA regions present in Japanese people, many unique to East Asians. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/japanese_ancestry_introgressed-chart_credit-RIKEN_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/japanese_ancestry_introgressed-chart_credit-RIKEN_1s.webp" alt="Introgressed sequences from archaic Neanderthals or Denisovans in the Japanese population. Click to enlarge. Credit: RIKEN" class="wp-image-1963362"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Introgressed sequences from archaic Neanderthals or Denisovans in the Japanese population. Click to enlarge. Credit: RIKEN</figcaption></figure>



Among these was a Denisovan-derived segment within the NKX6-1 gene, which may influence how individuals respond to semaglutide, a drug used to treat type 2 diabetes.



They also located 11 Neanderthal-derived segments possibly tied to several conditions, including coronary artery disease, prostate cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis. 



Researchers in other parts of the world have shown that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthal-genes-make-you-more-of-a-morning-person/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">archaic DNA</a> occasionally grants advantages in extreme environments or impacts susceptibility to illness. 



This new study adds fresh details to the ongoing search for connections between ancient genes and modern-day health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-japan-ancestry-and-human-health">Japan, ancestry, and human health</h2>



Scientists point out that large-scale genetic investigations have mostly centered on European samples. Terao is keen to expand the reach of JEWEL by including more DNA profiles from Asia and beyond. 



This broader approach could highlight unique markers and conditions that are otherwise overlooked. “We’d like to connect population differences with differences in genetics,” he observes.



Population research of this magnitude promises to clarify how certain traits, disorders, and susceptibilities arise. 



It may also help fine-tune healthcare for specific communities by showing which variants are most influential. At the same time, it shows that no population is as uniform as once believed. 



The new evidence highlights how three ancestral groups contributed to the current mosaic in Japan, blending the histories of the Jomon, east Asian migrants, and the Emishi people into a more complete picture of Japan’s past.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adi8419" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Who are the Japanese people? DNA study results upend previous beliefs

Population genetics can reveal surprising insights about the ancestry of...

Humans are pushing many of North America’s pollinators dangerously close to extinction, according to a newly released study.&nbsp;



Led by NatureServe, the study examined nearly 1,600 species - bees, beetles, butterflies, moths, flower flies, bats, and hummingbirds - and concluded that over 22% of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollinators-face-extinction-risk-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> are at high risk of disappearing.&nbsp;



Since we rely on them for everything from fruit orchards to backyard gardens, the findings raise urgent alarms about the future of our food systems, ecosystems, and well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dire-assessment-of-pollinator-decline">Dire assessment of pollinator decline </h2>



This large-scale analysis, one of the first to combine so many types of pollinators, revealed that some groups are in more trouble than others. Native <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-spring-flowers-can-save-bees-and-boost-pollination/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> emerged as a major concern, with 34.7% at risk - leafcutter and digger bees were singled out as especially imperiled.&nbsp;



Bats fared no better; all three pollinating bat species in the study also face troubling declines, while <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hummingbirds-have-an-incredible-strategy-to-survive-food-shortages/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hummingbirds</a> escaped with an overall lower threat level.&nbsp;



According to the authors, the American Southwest is a “hotspot” of risk: it boasts a high diversity of pollinators but also suffers significant climate-related and human-driven stressors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-security-is-at-stake">Food security is at stake</h2>



Pollinators are not just pretty insects or interesting mammals. They are the linchpins in a massive network of life, responsible for fertilizing crops and wild plants alike.&nbsp;



Pollinator species contribute over $15 billion a year to the agricultural economy of North America. Their disappearance would undermine the reproduction of key plants, disrupt wildlife <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-awakening-arctic-food-webs-are-transforming-from-green-to-brown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food webs</a>, and cut into human livelihoods, from small-scale farms to major commercial operations.&nbsp;



The authors hope this work draws attention to a bigger picture: losing pollinators doesn’t just mean fewer bees in a meadow. It means fewer seeds, fruits, and flowers - a ripple effect for everything that depends on those resources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impact-on-pollinator-decline">Human impact on pollinator decline</h2>



The findings place most of the blame on agriculture, habitat loss, urban expansion, and climate change, though the specific mix of threats varies.&nbsp;



For example, the southwestern United States sees both intense urbanization and searing heat, while many farmland-heavy regions must contend with heavy pesticide use. 



In Florida, for instance, the rapid development of pine rockland habitats has raised concerns that certain butterflies - with limited historical ranges - could vanish.&nbsp;



The same goes for southwestern desert ecosystems where specialized pollinators are increasingly squeezed between farmland and sprawl.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-species-are-struggling-to-hold-on">Species are struggling to hold on</h2>



Dr. Jaret Daniels, a co-author of the study and curator of Lepidoptera at the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Museum of Natural History</a>, has witnessed some of these pressures firsthand. 



He noted that Florida harbors remarkable butterfly diversity, yet the state’s intense population growth and land conversion are leaving specialized species with fewer places to go. 



According to Daniels, we’re seeing species that already occupied tiny pockets of habitat now struggling to hold on because of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urbanization-is-a-threat-to-78-of-the-worlds-bird-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urbanization</a> - just one among the many threats identified by the study



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reversing-pollinator-decline-nbsp">Reversing pollinator decline&nbsp;</h2>



While the data paint a grim picture, the study also highlights actions people can take. Policymakers could integrate at-risk pollinators into wildlife action plans, unlocking more funds and legal safeguards.&nbsp;



Land managers might set aside or restore key habitats like grasslands and shrublands, which support many fragile pollinator communities.&nbsp;



Meanwhile, homeowners can adopt pollinator-friendly landscaping, from replacing turf with native plants to reducing pesticide use. Little steps, such as planting a few pots of native flowers, truly make a difference, noted Daniels.&nbsp;



Working farmland, too, can make space for pollinators. Daniels describes how Florida’s Department of Transportation plants milkweed along roadsides: pollinators that feed there can then travel to nearby farms, helping pollinate crops like blueberries and squash.&nbsp;



Over time, well-managed roadsides and farm edges become vital corridors for creatures that can roam far beyond a single flower bed.



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



One might ask, why not rely solely on the western honey bee? Daniels warns that placing all our bets on just one species poses risks, especially with pests, diseases, and climate extremes on the rise.&nbsp;



He compares it to a retirement plan: if you invest in only one stock, trouble with that stock could be disastrous. A diverse set of pollinators spreads out the risk and ensures pollination services remain stable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-swift-action-is-needed">Swift action is needed</h2>



While these newly identified threats are serious, Daniels remains cautiously optimistic, noting that pollinators are resilient if given the right support. The study’s authors likewise call for swift action, pointing to targeted, everyday solutions that individuals, farmers, and governments can pursue.&nbsp;



By fostering habitat patches, easing up on pesticides, and recognizing the value of each native pollinator’s unique role, it may be possible to stem the tide of species declines before it is too late.



Above all, the message is clear: pollinators are in trouble, but there are proven measures we can take to help slow their decline.&nbsp;



With nearly one in five pollinators imperiled, the time for more decisive conservation steps has arrived. After all, the fate of many of our favorite foods and the health of countless ecosystems depend on safeguarding these busy creatures.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2418742122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Pollinator decline is a direct threat to food security 

Humans are pushing many of North America’s pollinators dangerously close...

Scientists and marine experts across the globe are on alert after discovering an invasive pufferfish in the northern Adriatic.



A recreational angler recently caught a male <a href="https://www.fishbase.se/summary/4761" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">silver-cheeked toadfish</a> (Lagocephalus sceleratus) measuring 20.6 inches and weighing 2.9 pounds. The fish was captured on May 13, 2024 at a depth of about 64.6 feet.



This unexpected catch marks the fourth confirmed record of this invasive fish in the Adriatic, sparking discussions about its impact on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-some-places-are-prime-targets-for-invasive-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>, coastal tourism, and public safety.



The discovery is detailed in a report by researchers from the Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries and <a href="https://www.unipu.hr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Juraj Dobrila University of Pula</a>, including lead author Dr. Neven Iveša.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invasive-pufferfish-reaches-the-adriatic">Invasive pufferfish reaches the Adriatic</h2>



The silver-cheeked toadfish fish is native to the Indo-Pacific and is known to be highly adaptable. Experts have identified it as a <a href="http://www.seaslugforum.net/find/lessep" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lessepsian migrant</a>, which means it traveled into the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal.



The strong bite of this invasive pufferfish can crack open hard-shelled prey, and in some cases, it has caused partial amputations of fingers. The fish’s flesh and organs carry <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/ershdb/emergencyresponsecard_29750019.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tetrodotoxin</a>, a substance that can be lethal when consumed.



Some Mediterranean communities have seen this species making up a growing portion of small-scale <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/invasive-lionfish-global-domination-mediterranean-sea-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing</a> hauls. Its muscular jaws can damage nets and lines, creating headaches for fishers who rely on consistent catches.



The researchers suggest controlling it through targeted removal and updated fishing practices. They noted that gear modifications might help reduce harm to native wildlife and protect the livelihoods of coastal communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invasive-pufferfish-disrupts-local-species">Invasive pufferfish disrupts local species</h2>



The silver-cheeked toadfish has a reputation for munching on a wide range of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/growing-threat-of-invasive-species-requires-immediate-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">organisms</a>. Its diet can include bivalves, gastropods, and sea urchins.



The worry is that these feeding habits might change local food webs and interrupt natural balances. Warmer waters and certain <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0278434314001034" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">currents in the Adriatic</a> also appear to be improving the odds for these newcomers, raising concerns that they could spread even further.



“The presence of Lagocephalus sceleratus in the northern Adriatic is a clear warning sign of the species’ expanding range and potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-invasive-crustacean-species-discovered-in-the-mediterranean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological</a> and economic consequences," said Dr. Iveša.



"Proactive monitoring and management strategies are important to mitigating its impact on local marine biodiversity, fisheries, and public safety."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regulations-and-recommendations">Regulations and recommendations</h2>



Because tourism thrives on pristine coastal attractions, communities worry that sightings or injuries related to this fish might tarnish local beach culture. Even a handful of unfortunate encounters could leave a bad impression on visitors.



<a href="https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32014R1143" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Union policies</a> address invasive species but tend to focus on freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems. Croatia lacks specific marine rules that target wild species like the silver-cheeked toadfish.



The researchers highlight the need for stricter enforcement of sales bans to keep this toxic fish from entering food markets.



They also advocate for training medical personnel, fishers, and tourism operators so they can handle any interactions or injuries efficiently.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-public-awareness">Importance of public awareness</h2>



Locals in Croatian coastal towns have been asked to inform authorities if they catch or spot any silver-cheeked toadfish. The collaboration helps with early detection and better management of invasive species.



Fishing communities, diving schools, and coastal hotels play a role in gathering sightings. Citizen contributions have proven vital in tracking new arrivals and keeping tabs on any incidents.



Prompt action can head off more trouble. Strategies like reporting catches, improving public awareness, and enlisting citizen science groups all help slow the spread of this unwelcome visitor.



Authorities also recommend adjusting fishing seasons to match the invasive pufferfish’s breeding period. This step may minimize its spread and ensure the safety of recreational boaters and swimmers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invasive-fish-threatens-ecosystem-balance">Invasive fish threatens ecosystem balance</h2>



Research teams are currently exploring the fish’s feeding habits and movements in newly invaded waters. Their ongoing work may lead to tools that help communities stay several steps ahead of shifting populations.



Croatia’s coastline faces unique pressures, yet it also holds a strong sense of community engagement. By blending local knowledge with scientific expertise, there is hope that this invasive pufferfish’s spread can be limited.



Stakeholders suggest that simple measures, like wearing sturdy gloves to remove a line-hooked puffer, can prevent injuries. They also advise posting warning signs at busy marinas if more fish appear.



The northern Adriatic’s encounter with the silver-cheeked toadfish signals a broader challenge shared by many Mediterranean regions. 



This fish’s arrival highlights the importance of cooperation among researchers, local authorities, and the public to keep beaches safe and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-deep-sea-fish-survive-the-crushing-depths-of-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> healthy.



The study is published in <a href="https://aiep.pensoft.net/article/146945/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Acta Ichthyologica et Piscatoria</a>.



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Invasive pufferfish caught in the Adriatic raises safety concerns

Scientists and marine experts across the globe are on alert...

Great white sharks are top predators in ocean ecosystems and are known for their raw power and hunting prowess. They often launch themselves out of the water in pursuit of prey.



But in South Africa’s False Bay, these apex predators have all but vanished - and scientists are sounding the alarm about what that means for the rest of the ecosystem.



A new study from the <a href="https://www.earth.miami.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Miami Rosenstiel School</a> of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science reveals what happens when a top predator is suddenly removed from the food chain. 



After more than two decades of research in <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/False_Bay" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">False Bay</a>, the team found significant shifts in the marine food web that are consistent with long-held ecological theories.



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



To state the obvious, great white sharks are the rock stars of the ocean - massive, powerful, and a little bit mysterious. They can grow over 20 feet long and weigh a couple tons, cruising through the water like it’s nothing. 



These sharks hang out in coastal waters all over the world, but they especially love cooler regions like the coasts of California, South Africa, and Australia. 



With those rows of razor-sharp teeth and an uncanny ability to sense the tiniest movements, they’re built to hunt. 



Seals, sea lions, and fish are usually on the menu, and when they strike, it’s fast and fierce - like a torpedo with teeth.



Despite their scary rep, great whites aren’t the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-third-of-shark-species-face-extinction-despite-fishing-bans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mindless man-eaters</a> movies make them out to be. They’re actually pretty curious creatures. 



Sometimes, they’ll take a “test bite” out of something unfamiliar just to figure out what it is - which, unfortunately, can include surfboards. 



In order to save them from the brink of extinction, scientists have been tagging and tracking them to learn more about their behavior, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sharks-may-benefit-from-rising-temperatures-but-not-from-rising-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration patterns</a>, and even social lives. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disappearance-of-great-white-sharks">Disappearance of great white sharks</h2>



False Bay was once home to large numbers of great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias), but sightings have plummeted in recent years, indicating that the population may have crashed.



The study points to two major reasons for this decline: the long-term impact of capture in protective nets near swimming areas, and more recent predation by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sign-of-the-times-solitary-orcas-are-hunting-great-whites/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orcas</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ripple-effects-in-the-food-web">Ripple effects in the food web</h2>



The absence of white sharks is reshaping the ecosystem. Without these predators, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cape-fur-seals-are-particularly-vulnerable-to-entanglement/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cape fur seal</a> (Arctocephalus pusillus) populations have increased. 



So have the numbers of sevengill sharks (Notorynchus cepedianus), which are now more dominant in the area.



These changes, however, have consequences. The seals are depleting the local fish populations they feed on. Meanwhile, the sevengill sharks are preying on smaller shark species, and reducing their numbers.



These shifts demonstrate how the removal of a single species at the top of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-food-chains-threatened-by-ocean-acidification/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food chain</a> can have wide-reaching effects across multiple levels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-documenting-the-ecosystem-changes">Documenting the ecosystem changes</h2>



The researchers used a combination of methods to document these changes. They conducted long-term boat-based surveys, gathered citizen science reports of Cape fur seals, and analyzed data from Baited Remote Underwater Video Surveys (<a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/inport/item/25248" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BRUVS</a>).



“The loss of this iconic apex predator has led to an increase in sightings of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-happens-to-antarctic-seals-when-sea-ice-vanishes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cape fur seals</a> and sevengill sharks, which in turn has coincided with a decline in the species that they rely on for food,” said Dr. Neil Hammerschlag, the study’s lead author.



“These changes align with long established ecological theories that predict the removal of a top predator leads to cascading effects on the marine food web."



Video footage was a key source of information. It helped researchers see not just which species were present, but how they behaved.



“The use of underwater video surveys conducted more than a decade apart provided us with a snapshot of the food web both before and after the disappearance of white sharks from False Bay,” said Yakira Herskowitz, a co-author of the study. 



“The number of individuals of a given species recorded on the videos not only informs us about their numerical abundance, but also their behavior, as species under increased predation risk often become more elusive and are thus less likely to be detected on our cameras.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sharks-matter-more-than-you-think">Sharks matter more than you think</h2>



These findings offer clear evidence that losing a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-white-sharks-separated-into-three-distinct-groups-that-dont-intermingle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">top predator</a> affects far more than just one species. It sends a shockwave through the entire ecosystem.



“Without these apex predators to regulate populations, we are seeing measurable changes that could have long-term effects on ocean health,” said Hammerschlag.



As ocean systems continue to face threats from climate change, pollution, and overfishing, the study makes one thing clear: protecting sharks isn’t just about saving one species - it’s about preserving balance in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/overfishing-and-habitat-degradation-have-devastated-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine ecosystems</a>.



With so much of the world relying on healthy oceans for food, recreation, and natural services, the role of large sharks is too important to ignore.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-warning-for-other-ecosystems">A warning for other ecosystems</h2>



False Bay may be the focus of this study, but it's far from the only place where shark populations are under pressure. 



Similar patterns of disruption could be unfolding in other coastal ecosystems around the world where large predators are disappearing.



This study serves as a warning: the health of marine environments depends on keeping their food webs intact. 



Efforts to protect sharks - through conservation policies, public awareness, and improved fishing practices - are vital not just for the species themselves, but for the oceans they help keep in balance.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.2025.1530362/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Marine Science</a>.



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What happens when great white sharks disappear? Hint - it's not good

Great white sharks are top predators in ocean ecosystems and...

About 252 million years ago, Earth witnessed the worst biological <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-chaos-the-mass-extinction-that-reshaped-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disaster</a> ever recorded. Known as the end-Permian mass extinction, it erased over 80% of marine life. 



Scientists refer to it as the “Great Dying.” Yet what came next has its own strange legacy - a time when marine life everywhere looked the same.



This era, called the “Great Dulling,” spanned millions of years. From the tropics to polar regions, ocean life became oddly uniform. 



Species that once stayed in tight local zones suddenly appeared everywhere. Scientists have puzzled over this mystery for decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marine-life-changed-after-mass-extinction">Marine life changed after mass extinction</h2>



Stanford researchers now offer a compelling explanation. The team used fossil records and environmental data to track how marine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/at-least-two-of-earths-mass-extinctions-caused-by-massive-supernova-explosions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creatures</a> reacted after the Great Dying. 



The research was focused on groups like clams, oysters, and snails - organisms that not only survived but spread globally.



Published in the journal Science Advances, the study introduces a climate model that tracks oxygen and temperature changes. It helps explain why some creatures expanded rapidly while others died out. 



The findings suggest that global environmental shifts shaped who survived - and where they lived.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-mass-extinctions-in-a-new-way">Studying mass extinctions in a new way</h2>



Study senior study author Jonathan Payne is the Dorrell William Kirby Professor of Earth and Planetary Sciences in the <a href="https://sustainability.stanford.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability</a>.



“For us in the paleobiology field, this model is the equivalent to climate scientists getting computerized climate models to make quantitative predictions of how the world should change based on some simple mathematical representations,” said Professor Payne.



“We are now able to study big biogeographic changes of mass extinctions in a new way and get a better sense of why some animal groups made it through while others perished.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shockingly-uniform-marine-communities">Shockingly uniform marine communities </h2>



To reconstruct ancient oceans, scientists use fossils and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-forests-rose-again-after-the-planets-most-extreme-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemical traces</a>. 



These markers reveal environmental shifts like temperature, acidity, and oxygen levels. Around the end of the Permian period, massive volcanic activity in modern Siberia set off global warming and ocean acidification.



These changes alone can’t explain why surviving species suddenly spread across every ocean. That mystery belongs to the Triassic period, when marine life grew boringly similar everywhere.



“If someone asked you today where you’d find kangaroos, you’d say Australia,” said Jood Al Aswad, the study’s lead author and a PhD candidate. 



“But now imagine some major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/public-concern-over-species-extinctions-fades-quickly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disaster</a> happened, like a giant volcano erupted, and afterward you’re finding kangaroos in great numbers all over the globe – they’re all the way out in Antarctica, they’re hopping by the pyramids in Egypt, and they’re even in Stanford, California.”



Before the extinction, marine communities were highly diverse. Afterward, they became shockingly uniform. The team found that species variety across different parts of the world dropped by over half.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-homogenization-on-a-global-scale">Homogenization on a global scale</h2>



For nearly 200 years, scientists have debated what caused this sudden sameness. 



One idea is "ecological release" - when surviving species thrive because predators and competitors vanish. Another idea suggests that climate change made Earth more habitable to certain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-oasis-provided-refuge-for-plants-during-earths-worst-extinction-event/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">organisms</a> everywhere. The Stanford team tested both ideas. 



The researchers used geochemical data to model ancient ocean temperatures and oxygen levels. Then, they added physiological data from living marine animals - relatives of those ancient survivors - to simulate how creatures might have spread after the mass extinction.



The model showed that environmental conditions alone - higher temperatures and lower oxygen - were enough to predict where species could live. There was no need to consider missing predators or rivals.



“Our study has provided a simple environmental explanation, rather than an ecological one, for why certain survivors of the end-Permian extinction prospered and why homogenization happened on a global scale,” said Professor Payne.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-today-s-crisis-echoes-past-mass-extinction">Today’s crisis echoes past mass extinction</h2>



The model doesn’t just shed light on ancient history. It also helps scientists understand modern threats. Human activity is now causing another mass extinction. The model could offer insights into what life on Earth might look like in the future.



“The current biodiversity crisis is anticipated to herald changes in ecosystem composition that surpass even those seen in the earliest Triassic, which has been the greatest homogenization event to date,” the study authors wrote.



The research team now plans to apply this model to other mass extinction events, including the one that wiped out non-avian dinosaurs.



“Our model offers a great way of studying how animals respond to extreme changes in the environment,” said Al Aswad.



“With anthropogenically spurred climate change, there has been some warning that if we continue, then in the future we’re going to see taxonomic homogenization of organisms in modern oceans as well.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adr4199" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Marine life became strangely uniform after Earth’s worst mass extinction

About 252 million years ago, Earth witnessed the worst biological...

In the vast savannas of Africa, elephant herds roam with a quiet grace that often hides the complexity behind their movements. From a distance, it may look like these giants simply wander in search of food and water. But new research reveals a different story - one of calculation, strategy, and energy balance.



African elephants, it turns out, don’t just walk aimlessly. They think before they move.



A recent study published in the Journal of Animal Ecology shows that elephants are highly efficient in how they meet their immense daily energy needs. The research brings together over two decades of data from 157 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-era-in-wildlife-conservation-how-ai-will-help-protect-elephants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a> in Northern Kenya.



With advanced tracking and modeling tools, scientists have uncovered how elephants choose their paths based on terrain, food availability, and energy cost. The insights have far-reaching implications for conservation, especially in the face of habitat loss and climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elephants-save-energy-to-survive">Elephants save energy to survive</h2>



Being an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-an-elephants-teeth-can-help-us-track-animal-movements/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephant</a> comes with some heavy burdens - literally. These massive herbivores, often weighing several tons, need to consume huge amounts of low-calorie vegetation every single day.



Their enormous size gives them strength, but it also demands constant refueling. Unlike predators that hunt calorie-dense prey, elephants must spend most of their day eating just to keep up.



But eating isn’t the only task that burns energy. Finding food in harsh, fragmented landscapes means walking long distances. Each step taken across uneven ground, up steep hills, or through dry plains carries a cost. 



For elephants, movement isn’t just a means of travel - it’s a calculation. The right decision can save hours of energy; the wrong one can drain their reserves.



That’s why understanding how elephants navigate their environment matters. Knowing the logic behind their paths helps scientists protect their habitats better and ensure that conservation strategies match their real-world needs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-elephants-for-22-years">Tracking elephants for 22 years</h2>



To uncover the patterns behind <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extinct-elephant-fossils-reveal-early-evidence-of-animal-butchery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephant</a> movement, researchers from the University of Oxford, the German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (<a href="https://www.idiv.de/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iDiv</a>), and Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena worked with Save the Elephants, a UK-registered charity based in Kenya. 



Over 22 years - from 1998 to 2020 - they collected GPS data from 157 elephants moving across Northern Kenya.



This dataset provided a rare and rich look at how elephants respond to their environment. The patterns were clear. Most elephants consistently avoided areas that would require too much effort to cross. 



Rough terrain and steep slopes saw far fewer elephant visits. Instead, elephants selected flatter, smoother paths - even if those routes were longer. Energy saved, not distance shortened, seemed to be the deciding factor.



The study showed that 94% of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elephant-movement-is-influenced-by-habitat-suitability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a> avoided high-cost terrain. These weren't random decisions. Elephants appeared to actively weigh their options and pick the path that required the least energy, a strategy that may be essential for survival in unpredictable landscapes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-and-water-choices">Food and water choices</h2>



Terrain wasn’t the only factor in elephant decision-making. Vegetation quality also played a big role. Around 93% of elephants showed a preference for areas rich in plant productivity. 



These areas offered more reward for less walking - ideal for large herbivores who need to eat for hours each day. The link between green areas and elephant movement was strong and consistent across seasons.



Water, too, influenced their choices, but not in the way one might expect. Some elephants stayed close to rivers or waterholes. Others traveled far and wide. The researchers found that while water access is important, elephants make complex individual choices about how much they prioritize it.



This adds another layer of complexity to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-elephant-conflict-will-escalate-with-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephant</a> behavior and shows that conservation plans need to leave room for variation among individuals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-speed-and-strategy-of-elephants">Speed and strategy of elephants</h2>



The study also uncovered a surprising detail: elephants are even more selective about terrain when moving at higher speeds. When walking slowly, 74% of elephants avoided difficult landscapes. 



But when moving at intermediate or fast speeds, those numbers climbed to 87% and 93% respectively. That means the faster they go, the more carefully they choose their route.



This strategy mirrors what scientists have seen in other species. Just like birds that ride thermal uplifts to glide with less effort, elephants appear to make conscious choices to preserve energy. These choices are not just about immediate survival. 



They shape long-term success, reproduction, and herd stability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-tools-to-understand-old-trails">New tools to understand old trails</h2>



To analyze the movement data, the researchers used a modeling method called ENERSCAPE. This system estimates how much energy it takes for an elephant to move across various types of terrain, based on the animal's body mass and the slope of the land.



When combined with satellite data on vegetation and water, the tool creates a detailed picture of the “energy landscape” each elephant navigates.



They also used step-selection functions, a statistical method that compares the places elephants actually visited with nearby places they could have visited but didn’t. By examining these choices, the researchers identified which environmental factors shaped elephant routes most.



This approach revealed more than just preference - it showed decision-making. Elephants don’t walk randomly. They make careful, context-aware choices that reflect an understanding of effort, reward, and terrain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-following-elephant-energy-logic">Following elephant energy logic</h2>



These findings aren’t just academic. They could change how conservation areas and migration corridors are planned. 



Many protected zones are created based on where elephants are seen most often. But this new research suggests that energy cost must be a key factor in design. A path that looks good on paper may be too steep or rugged for real elephant use.



Planning must also consider individual differences. Some elephants prefer staying near water. Others roam far. A rigid conservation plan that doesn’t account for these preferences may fall short. Flexibility and energy-efficiency need to be built into every project aimed at protecting these animals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-disturbance-and-change">Climate, disturbance, and change</h2>



The environment is changing fast. As temperatures rise and rainfall patterns shift, food and water availability will also change. 



That could force elephants to alter their routes, raising the risk of human-elephant conflict. The study's authors believe their work can help predict how elephants might respond to these changes - and guide conservation efforts accordingly.



Future work will improve the ENERSCAPE model by adding seasonal data, human activity maps, and climate projections. These enhancements will give a fuller picture of how elephant behavior adapts to a world in flux.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elephants-save-energy-whenever-possible">Elephants save energy whenever possible</h2>



“While more detailed research is needed to fully understand how an elephant uses its habitat, this study identifies a central decision-making factor for travelling elephants: save energy whenever possible,” noted co-author Professor Fritz Vollrath from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a>.



“These new results have important implications for assessing and planning conservation and restoration measures, such as dispersal corridors, by explicitly accounting for the energy costs of moving,” added lead researcher Dr. Emilio Berti from the&nbsp;German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research&nbsp;and&nbsp;Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena.



Elephants, long admired for their memory and strength, now reveal another layer of intelligence - how they move with intention. In learning to think like elephants, we may find better ways to protect them.



The study is published in the <a href="https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/13652656" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Animal Ecology</a>. 



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Elephants choose their paths carefully to conserve energy

In the vast savannas of Africa, elephant herds roam with...

In a quiet home office in Durham, North Carolina, neuroscientist Richard Mooney pores over vivid brain scans of zebra finches. 



Each image captures moments in the life of a young bird learning to sing - dots of neural activity scattered across the brain like a pointillist painting, or bright squiggles marking chemical changes during a solo performance.



To Mooney, a professor at <a href="https://duke.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Duke University</a> who has spent four decades studying how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-adapt-their-survival-strategies-to-climate-change/">birds</a> learn to sing, these imperfect chirps and squeaks are the earliest signs of something much bigger. “Their songs don’t sound like much at first,” he said.



But, like a child learning to talk or a pianist learning scales, zebra finches must put in hours of practice - up to 10,000 renditions a day for an entire month - before they can produce their complex, courtship-ready melodies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-songbirds-reveal-secrets-of-learning">Songbirds reveal secrets of learning</h2>



Now, thanks to new research by Mooney and Duke neurobiology professor John Pearson, scientists are beginning to understand what fuels this relentless drive to improve - and what it reveals about the learning process in general.&nbsp;



The findings, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-08694-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>, offer new insight into how learning occurs without external rewards, and could deepen understanding of motor learning and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/household-chemicals-linked-to-neurological-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neurological disorders</a> in humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-the-learning-process">Tracking the learning process</h2>



In their experiments, the researchers placed male juvenile zebra finches - who are the only singers among their species - in soundproof chambers where they could practice at will. 



These birds learn their courtship songs early in life by first listening to their fathers and memorizing the melodies. 



Then, like human toddlers learning speech, they begin to babble, gradually shaping their squeaks into structured songs that match their mental template.



To monitor their progress, Pearson’s team developed a machine learning model capable of analyzing and scoring thousands of song renditions in real time. This allowed the researchers to track how each bird’s performance changed from moment to moment.



“Some tries were a little better, and some were a little worse,” Pearson said. “Generally the longer the birds worked at it, the better they got.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-songbirds-learning-for-the-joy-of-it">Songbirds learning for the joy of it</h2>



As the birds honed their songs, the team also monitored chemical signals in the basal ganglia, a brain region involved in learning new motor skills. 



Using fluorescent sensors engineered to light up in the presence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dopamine-helps-us-learn-from-positive-and-negative-experiences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dopamine</a> - a key chemical messenger for reward and motivation - the researchers tracked its activity in real time.



What they discovered was surprising: each time a bird practiced, dopamine levels began to rise, regardless of how well the song was performed.&nbsp;



Whether the bird hit the right notes or not, simply making the effort triggered activity in the brain’s reward system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-brain-wired-to-learn">A brain wired to learn</h2>



The dopamine signal increased even more when a bird sang better than expected for its developmental stage, and dipped slightly when performance regressed.&nbsp;



These shifts suggest that the birds’ brains were reinforcing improvement and gently correcting missteps - all without any external feedback.



“Nobody’s telling the bird if he’s an honor student or going to be sent to detention,” Mooney said. “The birds were alone during their practice sessions, singing away in a soundproof room.”



Instead, the study shows that dopamine acts as an internal guide - a kind of neurological compass - helping the birds adjust and improve over time. This system of intrinsic motivation may explain how learning continues even in the absence of rewards or punishments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dopamine-provides-a-motivational-boost">Dopamine provides a motivational boost</h2>



The researchers also identified another player in the process: acetylcholine, a neurochemical known to influence attention and learning.&nbsp;



Qi, the study’s first author, demonstrated that acetylcholine could stimulate dopamine release when the birds sang, providing an extra motivational boost.



When the team blocked dopamine or acetylcholine in the basal ganglia, the results were dramatic.



“Learning basically comes to a halt,” Mooney explained. “The bird still sings a lot, but he doesn't seem to be able to learn from it.”



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



While the experiments were conducted in zebra finches, the implications go far beyond avian neuroscience. The basal ganglia, dopamine, and acetylcholine systems involved in the birds' learning are shared across vertebrates - including humans.



“These findings translate across species,” Pearson said. “Essentially every animal with a backbone shares these brain systems.”



Understanding how these internal motivation systems function may shed light on how humans acquire complex skills like speaking, playing an instrument, or juggling. 



In this sense, Mooney said, “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-songs-human-speech-common-vocal-genetic-origin-syrinx/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birdsong</a> learning is very similar to what children do when they spontaneously acquire these remarkable skills.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-songbirds-as-a-model-for-learning">Songbirds as a model for learning</h2>



The research could also help explain what happens when those systems break down. Dopamine dysfunction in the basal ganglia is associated with neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and schizophrenia. 



By studying learning in songbirds, researchers can explore the underlying principles in a simpler system.



“It’s really important that we understand these regions, and the bird is a means of getting at those principles,” Pearson noted.



For Mooney, the significance is both scientific and deeply human.



“Of all the scientific frontiers that remain, the brain is probably the most poorly understood. And it’s fundamental to being human,” he concluded.



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Dopamine fuels learning in young songbirds

In a quiet home office in Durham, North Carolina, neuroscientist...

The story of early human migration into South America has stirred debate. Researchers have long argued about when these first travelers arrived, how they adapted, and which paths they followed. 



Evidence has surfaced in many forms, from stone tools and butchered bone fragments to entire campfire sites once littered with animal remains. 



Although these clues have fueled lively conversations, scholars have faced frustrations when old assumptions were challenged and new findings seemed sparse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-in-the-pampas">Humans in the Pampas</h2>



The Pampas, known for its expansive plains and iconic landscapes, saw much of its early buzz dwindle in the mid-1900s. Yet the puzzle of who first roamed there has never truly gone away.



Now, according to research by Mariano Del Papa of <a href="https://unlp.edu.ar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National University of La Plata</a>, Argentina and colleagues, modern technology and updated theories are breathing fresh life into these investigations. 



Refined carbon dating, advances in ancient DNA methods, and broader approaches to human-environment interactions have sparked new interest in how and when humans walked across these southern lands.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-bones-and-cut-marks">Animal bones and cut marks</h2>



Scientists have long wondered if humans and extinct giant animals, sometimes called <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-were-likely-the-leading-cause-of-megafauna-extinctions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">megafauna</a>, overlapped in time or even shared close encounters. The debate has centered on physical associations and behavioral associations.



The former refers to animal bones and tools found in direct contact, while the latter involves traces of human activity on the bones themselves. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-europeans-practiced-cannibalism-eating-both-enemies-and-loved-ones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cut marks</a> are among the strongest signs of human interaction, yet they require careful analysis to rule out accidental scratches, weathering, or other natural wear.



In the Pampas, confident identification of these marks has been sporadic, with just a handful of sites showing possible evidence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-had-surprising-diets-3-5-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early humans</a> and large mammals coexisting. 



Many previous finds lacked direct proof of who caused the damage or how these animals ended up with unusual grooves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-reconquista-river-discovery">The Reconquista River discovery</h2>



One significant lead emerged along the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reconquista_River" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reconquista River</a> in northern Buenos Aires, where researchers uncovered the fossilized remains of an extinct armored animal called Neosclerocalyptus, which resembled giant armadillos.



Scientists inspected the shell and tail bones, seeking patterns that might confirm human involvement. 



Radiocarbon dating placed these remains at around 21,000 years old, suggesting human presence in this area well ahead of many earlier estimates.



Further microscopic analysis revealed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eat-like-neanderthal-unpacking-ancient-cooking-methods-birds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cut marks</a> on parts of the pelvis, tail, and body armor. Statistical work compared these traces with known examples from butchered remains. 



The marks aligned with what stone tools commonly produce, and their location matched spots where hunters might have targeted meat-rich areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neosclerocalyptus-giant-armadillos">Neosclerocalyptus - giant armadillos</h2>



Neosclerocalyptus was one of those prehistoric oddballs you wouldn’t want to bump into on a walk through ancient South America. 



It looked kind of like an armadillo on steroids - covered in a thick, bumpy shell and sporting a short, stubby snout. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/first-humans_south-america_Neosclerocalyptus-skeleton_giant-armadillo_credit-Del-Papa_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/first-humans_south-america_Neosclerocalyptus-skeleton_giant-armadillo_credit-Del-Papa_1s.webp" alt="Drawing of a Neosclerocalyptus skeleton highlighting cut-marked skeletal elements in light blue found at the CRS-10 specimen. Credit: Del Papa et al., 2024, PLOS ONE" class="wp-image-1963422" style="width:300px;height:auto"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Drawing of a Neosclerocalyptus skeleton highlighting cut-marked skeletal elements in light blue found at the CRS-10 specimen. Credit: Del Papa et al., 2024, PLOS ONE</figcaption></figure>



This guy belonged to the glyptodont family, which were basically giant armored mammals related to modern armadillos. 



Neosclerocalyptus roamed the open plains during the Pleistocene epoch, which means it shared the landscape with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smilodon-fatalis-young-saber-toothed-cats-had-double-fangs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">saber-toothed cats</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-in-america-coexisted-with-giant-sloths-and-mastodons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">giant ground sloths</a>, and early humans. It wasn’t exactly speedy, but its tank-like body made up for it in defense.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timeline-of-humans-in-south-america">Timeline of humans in South America</h2>



The dating results place this evidence roughly 6,000 years before most recognized archaeological sites in southern South America. 



Researchers note that a small but growing body of recent findings across the Americas indicates humans may have been around even earlier than 20,000 years ago. 



These outcomes resonate with discoveries elsewhere suggesting that people reached the continent sooner than older textbooks stated.



While the giant armadillo discovery in northeastern Argentina stands out, it parallels similar points of interest in other regions. 



Scientists working elsewhere have seen indications of human activity dating beyond the once-accepted timeline of 13,000 to 16,000 years ago. 



These glimpses could fill voids in the historical record, showing that different groups explored diverse landscapes, from coastal zones to inland stretches.



Clear behavioral associations remain challenging to confirm. Bones alone can be scattered by rivers or shifting sediments, and random fractures sometimes mimic cut marks. 



In this case, careful examination of the site’s layers helped rule out normal taphonomic processes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-next">What happens next?</h2>



Investigations like this may steer attention to under-sampled areas where layers from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-age-data-analysis-reshapes-climate-future-lowers-warming-estimates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Last Glacial Maximum</a> remain intact. 



If additional fossils with similar markings appear nearby, the evidence for a broader human footprint dating back more than 20,000 years will become tougher to dispute. 



Radiocarbon dating and ancient DNA techniques could then piece together the connections between these early populations and later groups spread across South America.



Experts agree that ongoing exploration is essential. Early settlement patterns in the Pampas might reflect unique strategies for finding resources and adapting to shifting climates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-south-america-and-giant-armadillos">Humans, South America, and giant armadillos</h2>



From a set of fossils on the Reconquista River to the possibility of unearthing more traces in the surrounding region, every fresh clue adds depth to an ancient tale. 



These findings echo other recent data suggesting humans reached the Americas well before longstanding theories indicated. 



The weight of this evidence challenges traditional timelines and inspires experts to reexamine historical assumptions.



For now, this glyptodont discovery seems to indicate that South America’s early human narrative might stretch back further than once believed.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0304956" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



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First humans in South America survived by eating giant armadillos

The story of early human migration into South America has...

Climate change has long threatened species living in extreme habitats. Emperor penguins, iconic residents of Antarctica, now face a sharper edge of that threat. 



​A team led by scientists at the&nbsp;Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (<a href="https://www.whoi.edu/press-room/news-release/new-study-finds-emperor-penguins-increasingly-threatened-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WHOI</a>), along with global collaborators, has revealed new evidence that these birds are more at risk than previously believed.​



The study suggests emperor penguins should no longer be considered “Near Threatened.” Instead, the team recommends reclassifying them as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006320719309899?" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“Vulnerable” or even “Endangered”</a>. This shift, based on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22697752/132600320?" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">updated IUCN criteria</a>, highlights an urgent need to reconsider current conservation strategies.



The researchers tailored their study to match the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/just-a-whiff-of-penguin-poop-can-send-krill-into-a-frenzy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">penguins</a>’ deep dependence on stable sea ice and predictable Antarctic conditions. The changing environment now places them on unstable ground.



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



Emperor penguins are at significant risk of extinction due to climate change, particularly the rapid loss of Antarctic sea ice, which they depend on for breeding and raising their chicks. 



Studies suggest that if current warming trends continue, more than 90% of emperor penguin colonies could be gone by the end of the century. 



Some projections indicate that major population declines could happen much sooner, potentially within our lifetime.



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



Published in Biological Conservation, the paper titled Living with Uncertainty presents new tools to predict future risks. The researchers used a cutting-edge method: the Multi-Model Large Ensemble (MMLE) framework.



This approach combines numerous Earth system simulations to capture a fuller picture of possible <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/enhanced-monitoring-of-emperor-penguins-can-help-us-save-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental futures</a>.



“This is the first study to integrate natural variability in physical and biological processes and employ a wide range of Earth system and ecological models to account for numerous sources of uncertainty in projecting assessments of future population trajectories,” said Stéphanie Jenouvrier, lead author and senior scientist at WHOI.



“Improved methods for accounting for uncertainties are urgently needed to strengthen assessments of extinction and inform conservation efforts in an uncertain world.”



The framework improves how scientists handle uncertainty in environmental modeling. Instead of relying on a single future scenario, the MMLE considers many outcomes. This change offers deeper insight into extinction risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-world-is-changing-for-emperor-penguins">The world is changing for emperor penguins</h2>



To build their models, the team used a wide variety of data. These included satellite images of 50 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/african-penguins-have-lost-97-percent-of-their-population/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">penguin colonies</a>, long-term monitoring of chicks and adults, and over a decade of observations of individual birds. The researchers also factored in how colonies move, drawn from genetic and population data.



“There are quantifiable uncertainties in projections of future environmental conditions,” said Jenouvrier. “Incorporating this uncertainty in ecosystem projections allows for a more complete and robust assessment of potential extinction risk.”



This approach blends fieldwork, satellite technology, and ecological theory. It gives conservationists a more grounded look at future risks. Such forecasts help shape stronger policies - especially when dealing with species that live in remote or harsh environments.



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



Professor Phil Trathan, one of the study’s authors and formerly Head of Conservation Biology at the <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Antarctic Survey</a>, emphasized the broader meaning of this research.



“Emperor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emperor-penguins-are-struggling-to-survive-as-sea-ice-vanishes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">penguins</a> are vital indicators of ecosystem health in the Antarctic, they also help inform us about wider changes in the earth system. Therefore, harnessing robust models that increase our understanding about uncertainty and risk are vital, if we are to better conserve and protect this and other species.”



“Ultimately, humans depend upon the natural world, so developing better projections of the future earth system are essential for ensuring human health and well-being. The tools used in this study should now help us all.”



The combination of modeling tools and diverse data points may set a precedent for future work. Other species in similarly vulnerable habitats may also benefit from these techniques.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-emperor-penguins">Protecting emperor penguins</h2>



The IUCN plays a central role in shaping how species like the emperor penguin are protected. The Red List guides many conservation decisions, often influencing discussions at international levels.



These include forums like the&nbsp;Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (<a href="https://www.ats.aq/e/atcm.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ATCM</a>)&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (<a href="https://www.ccamlr.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CCAMLR</a>).​



“The Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting serves as a key forum for decision-making on Antarctic conservation. This new IUCN Red List assessment provides critical scientific support for strengthening protections for emperor penguins under the Antarctic Treaty System,” noted Jenouvrier.



”It also strengthens the case for establishing Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) under the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources, particularly in vital regions like the Ross Sea and the Weddell Sea, which could serve as crucial refugia for emperor penguins.” 



With the scientific foundation now laid, the next step lies with policymakers. If taken seriously, this reassessment may not only protect emperor penguins but also influence how we respond to global climate threats across species and continents.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006320725000746" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biological Conservation</a>.



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Emperor penguins may disappear in our lifetime

Climate change has long threatened species living in extreme habitats....

Antibiotic resistance is rising. Infections spread unchecked as old treatments fail. The next solution may come not from labs, but from swamps and forests. Frogs - ancient survivors of earth’s changing ecosystems - have evolved powerful natural defenses. These defenses may hold the key to future antibiotics.



Frogs thrive in environments teeming with microbes. Yet, they rarely suffer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-pass-down-their-memories-to-fight-viruses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infections</a>. That mystery has long intrigued researchers. Could frogs be carrying biological secrets that might save human lives?



​A new study led by&nbsp;Professor Cesar de la Fuente&nbsp;at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.upenn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Pennsylvania</a>&nbsp;believes the answer is yes.&nbsp;His team is tapping into the molecular defenses of frogs to design synthetic antibiotics that may defeat drug-resistant bacteria.​



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-frog-evolution-shaped-powerful-antibiotics">Frog evolution shaped powerful antibiotics</h2>



Frogs have existed for over 200 million years. They have spread across continents and climates, adapting to jungles, rivers, deserts, and subarctic forests. Living in moist, microbe-rich environments, frogs constantly face bacterial threats. 



To survive, many species evolved antimicrobial peptides in their skin. These natural compounds kill harmful bacteria on contact. Unlike traditional antibiotics, they do not easily trigger resistance.



One frog species, Odorrana andersonii, has become the focus of research. It produces a peptide known as Andersonnin-D1. Chinese scientists first identified it in 2012. 



Despite its strength against bacteria, the peptide clumps together, making it less effective and more toxic. Because of this flaw, it cannot be used in clinical medicine without modification.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mission-to-rebuild-nature-s-blueprints">Mission to rebuild nature’s blueprints</h2>



Professor Cesar de la Fuente’s lab works at the intersection of biology, engineering, and synthetic chemistry. His team looks for inspiration in nature’s forgotten corners. 



Their earlier work explored ancient DNA from extinct animals like the woolly mammoth and Neanderthals. They also investigated the human gut microbiome, home to countless natural compounds.



“Each study is motivated by imagining environments where evolution would spur the creation of antibiotics,” said de la Fuente.



“Amphibians live in very microbe-rich environments. They very rarely get infected despite being surrounded by microbes, so they must produce antimicrobial compounds.”



Inspired by this evolutionary logic, the team set out to redesign Andersonnin-D1. The goal was to remove its dangerous tendencies while keeping its bacterial-fighting power.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-frog-antibiotics-in-the-lab">Improving frog antibiotics in the lab</h2>



Using structure-guided design, the researchers altered the chemical structure of Andersonnin-D1. This approach allows experts to make small, deliberate changes to a molecule’s sequence and observe the effects.



Marcelo Torres is a research associate in the de la Fuente lab and co-author of the paper.



“With structure-guided design, we change the sequence of the molecule. And then we see how those mutations affect the function that we are trying to improve," said Torres.



This method generated several synthetic peptides. These versions kept the strong <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cigarette-waste-fuels-antibiotic-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antimicrobial effect</a> but avoided the clumping that caused toxicity in the original. 



Each design aimed for maximum precision, producing molecules more suitable for real-world use.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-putting-the-molecules-to-the-test">Putting the molecules to the test</h2>



Designing new&nbsp;frog-based&nbsp;antibiotics is only the beginning. To prove their value, the synthetic peptides had to succeed in rigorous lab tests. 



The team exposed the molecules to a range of harmful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antibiotic-resistance-could-cause-a-health-crisis-globally/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria</a>. The results were promising. In preclinical models, the peptides matched the strength of polymyxin B - a last-resort drug used when others fail.



More importantly, these synthetic antibiotics showed low toxicity. They left human cells unharmed and did not disrupt beneficial gut bacteria. This makes them more targeted and less harmful than many existing drugs. The lab tested the peptides in both simple and complex bacterial communities.



“Those experiments are very difficult to set up because you need to grow different bacteria at once,” says de la Fuente. “We had to come up with the specific ratio of each bacterium to have a sustained community.”



These community-based models better reflect the conditions of real <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antimicrobial-resistance-could-cause-39-million-deaths-by-2050/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infections</a> in the human body.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-steps-toward-clinical-use">Steps toward clinical use</h2>



If additional studies continue to show strong results, the team will prepare for Investigational New Drug (IND) enabling studies. 



These tests assess safety and efficacy before a drug can be submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Only after passing these stages can the peptides move into clinical trials involving human patients.



“We are excited that frogs - and nature in general - can inspire new molecules that could be developed into antibiotics,” said de la Fuente. “Thanks to the power of engineering, we can take those natural molecules and turn them into something more useful for humanity.”



This line of research represents a fusion of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-plays-an-overlooked-role-in-antibiotic-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary biology</a> and advanced engineering. It shows how careful study of nature’s own defenses can guide the creation of life-saving medicines.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-s-role-in-innovation">Nature’s role in innovation</h2>



The research was conducted at the University of Pennsylvania’s <a href="https://www.seas.upenn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Engineering and Applied Science</a>. It was supported by funding from organizations such as the National Institutes of Health (<a href="https://www.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIH</a>), the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (<a href="https://www.dtra.mil/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DTRA</a>), <a href="https://us.pg.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Procter &amp; Gamble</a>, and the <a href="https://www.aiche.org/giving" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AIChE Foundation</a>.



The study is not just about frogs or antibiotics. It reflects a larger movement in science. Instead of only inventing new molecules from scratch, researchers are increasingly exploring the solutions that evolution already tested over millions of years.



Nature, shaped by survival, often creates molecules more elegant and efficient than anything built by human hands.



In this case, one frog’s molecular defense may lead to a major medical breakthrough. As the world searches for new antibiotics, it may be ancient animals - and the researchers who study them - that help protect our future.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.tibtech.2025.02.007" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trends in Biotechnology</a>.



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Frogs lead the way in developing new antibiotics

Antibiotic resistance is rising. Infections spread unchecked as old treatments...

In the forests of Tanzania, chimpanzees have long been known to fish for termites using handmade tools crafted from local plants. But what makes this behavior even more fascinating is how carefully they seem to choose the materials for their tools.



New research now shows that these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/primates-face-an-uncertain-future-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a> are not just grabbing any nearby stick to poke into a termite nest - they’re making smart choices based on how flexible and effective the material is.



This discovery comes from a collaborative effort between researchers at the University of Oxford’s <a href="https://www.anthro.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Anthropology</a> and Museum Ethnography, the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, the Jane Goodall Institute in Tanzania, the University of Algarve, the University of Porto in Portugal, and the University of Leipzig.



The study sheds light on the technical thinking behind chimpanzee tool use, a largely invisible part of primate evolutionary history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chimpanzees-prefer-flexible-tools-for-fishing">Chimpanzees prefer flexible tools for fishing</h2>



To eat <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/termites-are-natures-architects-building-well-ventilated-nests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">termites</a>, chimpanzees must first catch them. The primates use thin plant probes to pull the insects carefully out of narrow, winding tunnels inside termite mounds.



The team proposed that flexible tools would work better in these tight spaces than rigid sticks. To test this, lead author Alejandra Pascual-Garrido brought a portable mechanical tester to Gombe Stream National Park. She measured the amount of force it took to bend different plant materials.



The results were striking. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-can-sense-when-something-touches-them-despite-not-having-nerves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plants</a> that the chimpanzees actually used were much more flexible than those that were available but ignored. 



On average, unused plants were 175 percent more rigid. Even among plants growing side-by-side near the termite mounds, the ones that were repeatedly used produced significantly more flexible tools.



“This is the first comprehensive evidence that wild chimpanzees select tool materials for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chimpanzees-have-a-peak-season-for-termite-fishing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">termite fishing</a> based on specific mechanical properties,” said Pascual-Garrido, who has been studying chimpanzee tool-making in Gombe for over ten years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shared-preferences-across-africa">Shared preferences across Africa</h2>



Interestingly, the same plant species used by chimpanzees in Gombe such as Grewia - are also used by other chimpanzee populations living thousands of kilometers away.



This pattern suggests that the mechanical qualities of these plants are so useful that they’ve become common knowledge among different chimpanzee groups. It also hints that this knowledge might be deeply embedded in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chimpanzee-cultures-are-more-complex-than-we-realized/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chimpanzee culture</a>.



Their choices suggest a kind of natural logic. Chimpanzees may have what scientists call a “folk physics” - an intuitive understanding of which materials will get the job done.



Their knack for selecting the right plant isn’t just done by trial and error. It’s a skill. And it's one that might reflect the kind of thinking our early human ancestors used when building their own tools.



“This novel approach, which combines biomechanics with animal behaviour, helps us better understand the cognitive processes behind chimpanzee tool construction and how they evaluate and select materials based on functional properties,” said Pascual-Garrido.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-questions-about-chimpanzees">New questions about chimpanzees </h2>



The research opens up more questions than it answers. How do young chimpanzees learn which materials to use? Do they copy their mothers? And do they apply the same rules when choosing tools for other jobs - like collecting ants or honey?



“This finding has important implications for understanding how humans might have evolved their remarkable tool using abilities,” explained Adam van Casteren from the Department of Human Origins at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology.



“While perishable materials like wood rarely survive in the archaeological record, the mechanical principles behind effective tool construction and use remain constant across species and time.”



These behaviors also raise questions about memory, experience, and even innovation in non-human primates. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-about-early-humans">Clues about early humans</h2>



Understanding how chimpanzees refine their techniques over time could reveal a primitive form of trial-and-error learning that mirrors early human problem-solving.



By studying chimpanzees and their preferences for certain types of materials, researchers hope to uncover clues about how early humans may have started crafting implements long before stone tools appeared in the archaeological record.



It’s a small but meaningful step toward understanding the roots of human intelligence - through the eyes, and hands, of our closest extant relatives.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/iscience/fulltext/S2589-0042(25)00419-5?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS2589004225004195%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iScience</a>.



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Chimpanzees have tool-making skills similar to human engineers

In the forests of Tanzania, chimpanzees have long been known...

Sharks have roamed the oceans for millions of years. Their powerful jaws and sharp teeth make them top predators that are capable of influencing entire marine ecosystems. 



However, understanding what they eat and where they feed remains difficult. This is especially true for rare or protected species where direct sampling poses legal and ethical challenges.



Traditionally, scientists study shark diets by examining their teeth. But collecting samples from live sharks can be risky, costly, and often impossible, especially when dealing with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-some-great-hammerhead-sharks-rarely-leave-home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">threatened species</a>. 



Yet, every opportunity to gather data matters. That’s where the past meets the present - inside the drawers and display cases of museums.



A new study led by researchers from Flinders University has found that preserved shark jaws - often considered to be static relics - can be a powerful scientific resource. 



Using teeth from sharks in historical collections, researchers can now study shark diets without touching a living specimen.



This breakthrough offers new hope for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-third-of-shark-species-face-extinction-despite-fishing-bans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine science</a> and conservation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shark-jaws-reveal-feeding-secrets">Shark jaws reveal feeding secrets</h2>



Shark teeth hold chemical signatures that reveal details of their past meals and feeding grounds. These signatures come from ratios of stable isotopes - naturally occurring variations of chemical elements. By examining these isotopes, scientists can piece together an animal’s ecological history.



Until now, scientists avoided using preserved jaws due to concerns that cleaning chemicals might have distorted the isotopes.



Many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mediterranean-sharks-face-growing-threats-despite-conservation-efforts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shark</a> jaws in museums and private collections have been treated with substances like ethanol, bleach, or hydrogen peroxide. These treatments whiten the teeth but were thought to possibly alter their chemical composition.



However, the new research shows otherwise. The team discovered that these chemicals do not affect the key isotopes used in diet studies. This means that thousands of jaws from past decades are now usable in ways previously thought impossible.



"Most shark jaws in museums and private collections are chemically treated, so understanding if, or how these treatments affect tooth isotopes is crucial," said Flinders research associate Dr. Lauren Meyer.



"Finding that preservation chemicals had no impact on isotope values opens the door for the use of jaws from historic collections across Australia and globally."



This discovery means scientists can study <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sharks-may-benefit-from-rising-temperatures-but-not-from-rising-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shark</a> diets without needing fresh tissue samples. It also significantly broadens the scope of possible studies, including comparative diet research across different eras and regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-clarity-through-isotope-testing">Chemical clarity through isotope testing</h2>



The study involved stable isotope analysis, which looks at carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur isotopes. These elements help identify where and what an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/megalodon-was-sleeker-and-longer-than-previously-imagined/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal</a> has been eating.



"The chemicals in teeth provide a story of what the shark has eaten and from where, whether that be sea lions in South Australia, or tuna in New South Wales," explained lead author Laura Holmes, from the Southern Shark Ecology Group in the College of Science and Engineering at <a href="https://www.flinders.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Flinders University</a>.



The researchers partnered with the Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry Laboratory at the <a href="https://www.utas.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tasmania</a>. 



The team tested teeth from three very different elasmobranchs: cownose rays, gummy sharks, and broadnose sevengill sharks.



Despite their structural differences, all samples held up under isotope testing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rare-species-now-within-scientific-reach">Rare species now within scientific reach</h2>



Access to historical jaws brings particular value when studying rare or threatened shark species. These species often cannot be sampled directly, but many have had jaws collected as trophies. 



With these now validated as reliable data sources, older specimens can help researchers understand long-term dietary trends.



"This is especially useful for rare or threatened species, for which standard tissue samples may not be readily available, but for which trophy jaws have been collected, such as white sharks, tiger sharks, and makos," said Dr. Meyer.



Older collections, such as those from the 1970s and 1980s, now offer a scientific window into the past. This information is crucial as many shark species face increasing pressure from human activities, climate change, and habitat degradation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-applications-across-marine-life">Applications across marine life</h2>



While this study focused on sharks and rays, the implications go beyond these groups.



Other marine predators, such as killer whales, sperm whales, and fur seals, also have teeth stored in museum collections. These could be tested using the same methods, opening new research pathways.



"This study opens the door to use a tremendous resource of samples to untangle the current and historic diet and foraging habitats of complex predators - making the most exciting finding from this study the capacity for new research that is now possible," said Dr. Meyer.



These findings not only expand the toolkit for marine scientists but also enhance our understanding of ocean ecosystems over time. Every preserved tooth could tell a story. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0141113625001205?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Environmental Research</a>.



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Chemical clues from old shark jaws reveal diets and habitats

Sharks have roamed the oceans for millions of years. Their...

The feeling of fullness after a nice meal usually prevents us from eating more. This is a familiar experience for humans, but we are not alone. We share this with starfish and many other organisms as well.



New research indicates that the same message instructing us to eat no more has existed for more than 500 million years. The same molecule affecting our feeding behavior in this way also acts on starfish and other sea animals.



Researchers at <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a> have followed the evolutionary trail of a neurohormone named bombesin, which regulates appetite in humans. 



Collaborating with colleagues at the Institut Pasteur in Paris and the University of Warwick, the researchers discovered that this satiety-inducing peptide is much older than was thought, and is found in animals that lived before the first <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/over-half-of-the-worlds-vertebrates-reside-in-the-tropics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vertebrates</a> set foot on Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-bombesin">What is bombesin?</h2>



Bombesin is a small peptide that helps regulate appetite by sending a message when it's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neurons-discovered-that-tell-us-when-to-stop-eating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">time to stop eating</a>. While it’s been studied in humans and other mammals, its origins were less understood - until now. 



Researchers discovered that a bombesin-like molecule is present in echinoderms like starfish, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers.



If you’re wondering about the unusual name, bombesin isn’t explosive. It’s named after the fire-bellied toad, Bombina bombina, where it was first identified in 1971. 



Scientists noticed that injecting this compound into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolutionary-mystery-why-are-mammals-the-only-vertebrates-to-have-only-one-lower-jawbone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mammals</a> caused them to eat less and take longer between meals. This led to the idea that bombesin-like neurohormones are part of the body’s natural appetite control system.



Today, compounds that mimic bombesin are being explored as potential treatments for obesity, alongside well-known medications like Ozempic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-needle-in-a-haystack">A needle in a haystack</h2>



The research team began by searching for bombesin-like genes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-noise-can-be-fatal-to-marine-invertebrates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine invertebrates</a>. 



“It was a bit like looking for a needle in a haystack,” said Professor Maurice Elphick. “But eventually we discovered genes encoding a bombesin-like neurohormone in the genomes of starfish and their relatives.”



Once the gene was identified in the common starfish (Asterias rubens), scientists named the molecule ArBN. 



Collaborators at the University of Warwick used mass spectrometry to determine the exact structure of ArBN, which allowed the molecule to be synthesized for lab testing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-watching-starfish-eat-or-not-eat">Watching starfish eat - or not eat</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/starfish-break-off-their-arms-to-evade-danger-and-regenerate-them-later/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Starfish</a> feed in a bizarre and fascinating way: they push their stomachs out through their mouths to digest prey like mussels. The team wanted to know how ArBN affected this feeding behavior.



“When I tested ArBN, I saw that it caused contraction of the starfish stomach. This suggested that ArBN might be involved in stimulating stomach retraction when starfish stop feeding. And this is exactly what I found," explained Dr. Weiling Huang, who conducted the behavioral tests. 



"When I injected ArBN into starfish with their stomachs everted, it triggered the stomach to retract back into the mouth. What’s more, ArBN also delayed the initiation of feeding, as starfish injected with ArBN took longer to enclose a mussel compared to those injected with water.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-molecule-older-than-starfish">A molecule older than starfish</h2>



Understanding that bombesin-like molecules have been regulating feeding behavior since before the rise of vertebrates adds an important piece to the puzzle of how appetite evolved. 



“We can infer that this function extends back half-a-billion years to the common ancestor of starfish, humans, and other vertebrates,” said Professor Elphick.



But the implications go beyond biology textbooks. Some species of starfish are moving into new habitats due to climate change. In particular, these species are seeking cooler waters where shellfish farms are located, and may threaten aquaculture operations.



“One of the consequences of climate change is that some starfish species are invading cooler waters where shellfish are cultivated for human consumption,” said Professor Elphick.



“Discovering molecules that inhibit feeding in starfish could be useful in managing these invasions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-than-just-an-ancient-molecule">More than just an ancient molecule</h2>



This study connects two very different worlds: the sophisticated brain-gut interactions in humans and the slow, alien feeding behavior of starfish. Yet both rely on the same ancient molecule to know when it's time to stop eating.



As scientific discoveries reveal the biological links between species, the deep interconnectedness of all life becomes ever more apparent.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2420966122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Ancient molecule tells starfish and humans when to stop eating

The feeling of fullness after a nice meal usually prevents...

Since the Industrial Revolution, the world has witnessed a sharp increase in noise pollution generated by human activities. Whether it’s the constant hum of traffic, airplanes overhead, or the repetitive clamor of construction, these sounds can obstruct animals’ abilities to give and receive crucial signals - a process that is fundamental to their survival and reproduction.



Now, a team of biologists at the <a href="https://www.unl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Nebraska–Lincoln</a> (UNL) has published one of the first known studies demonstrating how one group of animals can react to human-made noise by adjusting its own method of sensing sounds.&nbsp;



In an article published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2025.02.041" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>, researchers Brandi Pessman and Eileen Hebets show that funnel-weaving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spiders-reveal-how-cave-creatures-lose-their-vision-over-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiders</a> alter how their silk webs transmit vibrations in response to local noise. 



This finding suggests that the spiders might deliberately change web structure to cope with the auditory chaos surrounding them, ensuring they receive vital cues from potential mates, prey, or predators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-key-discovery-about-web-adjustments">A key discovery about web adjustments</h2>



Drawing on lab experiments, the study uncovered a particularly unexpected insight: the way a spider’s web conveys vibrations varies depending on whether its architect was collected from a rural or urban area. This discrepancy hints at the idea that prior exposure to noise - possibly even inherited across generations - may influence a spider’s malleability when it comes to spinning webs.



“One of the most interesting things that we found is that urban and rural spiders are reacting differently when they're put into a noisy environment,” said Pessman, a postdoctoral researcher in biological sciences and the lead author of the paper. 



“This means that spiders with different experiences with noise - whether they themselves experienced it or their mothers passed it down to them across generations - respond differently.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spider-webs-as-sensory-extensions">Spider webs as sensory extensions</h2>



It has been well documented that animals such as birds and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-altering-the-calls-and-voices-of-frogs-around-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frogs</a> can change their calls or the timing of their vocalizations in the face of increased human noise. However, little was known about how animals manage to tweak the way they receive acoustic or vibratory signals. 



The main challenge is the hidden nature of most animals’ sensory systems, which are located within their bodies. But web-building spiders are unique, as their webs function effectively like external sensory extensions that capture vibrations from the environment.



This distinction makes funnel-weaving spiders, also known as Agelenopsis pennsylvanica, an ideal test group. They rely predominantly on vibratory signals for vital information. Their webs connect to various surfaces - trees, rocks, or buildings - capable of transmitting the vibratory noise created by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-birds-get-road-rage-when-exposed-to-traffic-noise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">traffic</a>, industrial activities, and more.&nbsp;



The research team hypothesized that funnel-weaving spiders might be able to reduce the volume of unwanted or irrelevant vibrations caused by human-related noise, which often shares the frequency range these spiders need for effective communication.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiders-in-urban-areas">Spiders in urban areas</h2>



Pessman started by collecting a total of 60 funnel-weaving spiders in and around Lincoln, Nebraska - some from city settings and others from out in the countryside. In the lab, the spiders were then placed in controlled environments that were either quiet or noisy as they spun webs over four nights. 



Upon completion, the researchers introduced test vibrations into those webs, measuring how energy moved across the silk in different conditions.



They observed that spiders from urban areas tended to build webs that lost more energy in short-distance vibrations across a broader set of frequencies when placed under noisy conditions. 



Interpreted practically, these webs essentially “muffled” environmental noise. This may prevent sensory overload, giving the spiders a clearer signal from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-predator-prey-feast-ever-seen-in-the-ocean-enormous-quickly-altered-food-chain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prey</a> or other relevant vibrations in their immediate vicinity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiders-that-are-exposed-to-less-noise">Spiders that are exposed to less noise</h2>



Meanwhile, rural spiders assembled their webs in such a way that energy from biologically important long-distance vibrations was preserved. This indicates they might be amplifying or enhancing certain frequency ranges to pick out meaningful vibrations above the background noise.



“Rural spiders are not used to as much noise in their environment,” Pessman said. “When they suddenly get a lot of noise, they might try to 'turn up' the volume in their webs or amplify what's coming in to better hear certain signals above the noise.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-ecology-and-future-studies">Implications for ecology and future studies</h2>



Given the role of funnel webs as external sensory structures, these findings open a new window into how animals can adjust the way they receive signals, a research area that had remained largely unclear until now. 



The ability to alter web structure in response to different noise environments could prove vital as human-made noise continues to escalate across the planet.



In the future, the team plans to investigate precisely how the spiders are changing their webs - whether they adjust the tension of certain silk lines, vary anchor points, or adopt an entirely new shape to filter or boost specific frequencies. 



High-speed video of the web-building process, combined with digital tracking methods, will let them delve deeper into these construction nuances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiders-overcoming-environmental-noise">Spiders overcoming environmental noise</h2>



“This study really highlights the role of receivers in overcoming environmental noise,” said Hebets, who is a professor of biological sciences at UNL. 



“It opens up entirely new avenues of research. For example, are receivers placing themselves at certain locations in the environment where signals are going to receive less attenuation or overlap of noise?”



By revealing that some species can modify their “sensor” for hearing, the team hopes to inspire more research on how other animals cope with rising noise levels. 



The funnels built by these little invertebrates may seem inconsequential to an urban passerby, but as the study shows, each strand of silk can be precisely tuned to help the spider thrive in a clamorous world.



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Spiders adapt their webs to filter out human-made noise

Since the Industrial Revolution, the world has witnessed a sharp...

A Deep-Sea Sponge and Anemones in Antarctica

An international team of researchers took advantage of a rare chance encounter to explore a massive new expanse of seafloor exposed by the breakup of an Antarctic ice shelf in the Bellingshausen Sea.&nbsp;



On January 13, 2025, an iceberg named A-84 - which was the size of the city of Chicago - broke off from the George VI Ice Shelf, which sits along the Antarctic Peninsula. 



This event uncovered roughly 209 square miles (540 square kilometers) of seafloor that had previously been concealed under floating ice.



The team arrived aboard <a href="https://schmidtocean.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Schmidt Ocean Institute</a>’s R/V Falkor (too) at this newly exposed site on January 25, making them the first to study such a large underwater area that had previously been covered by an ice shelf.&nbsp;



Their effort marks the first large-scale interdisciplinary exploration of geologic, oceanographic, and biological features hidden beneath an extensive floating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astonishing-glacier-retreat-in-the-arctic-signals-climate-disaster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacier</a> front.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapidly-shifting-expedition-goals">Rapidly shifting expedition goals</h2>



Co-chief scientist Patricia Esquete is a researcher in the <a href="https://www.cesam-la.pt/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Environmental and Marine Studies</a> (CESAM) and the Department of Biology (DBio) at the <a href="https://www.ua.pt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Aveiro</a> in Portugal.&nbsp;



"We seized upon the moment, changed our expedition plan, and went for it so we could look at what was happening in the depths below,” said Esquete.



“We didn’t expect to find such a beautiful, thriving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-environmental-stress-strengthens-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem</a>. Based on the size of the animals, the communities we observed have been there for decades, maybe even hundreds of years.”



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Antarctic-iceberg-detached_seafloor-study_credit-SOI_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Antarctic-iceberg-detached_seafloor-study_credit-SOI_1s.webp" alt="The newly exposed Antarctic seafloor also allowed the team to gather critical data on the past behavior of the ice sheet. The ice sheet has been shrinking and losing mass over the last few decades due to climate change. Credit: Alex Ingle / Schmidt Ocean Institute" class="wp-image-1963228"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The newly exposed Antarctic seafloor also allowed the team to gather critical data on the past behavior of the ice sheet. The ice sheet has been shrinking and losing mass over the last few decades due to climate change. Credit: Alex Ingle / Schmidt Ocean Institute</figcaption></figure>



Originally, the science mission did not include venturing beneath a freshly fractured portion of the ice shelf. 



However, the movement of this newly calved <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-iceberg-that-broke-away-from-antarctica-sparks-concerns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iceberg</a> offered a rare opportunity to explore a site that, until recently, had never been examined by any human.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antarctic-seafloor-reveals-lush-communities">Antarctic seafloor reveals lush communities</h2>



Using Schmidt Ocean Institute’s remotely operated vehicle, ROV SuBastian, the science team spent eight days surveying the seafloor at depths down to 1,300 meters (4,265 feet).&nbsp;



The experts discovered an unexpectedly rich ecosystem that was teeming with corals, sponges, icefish, giant sea spiders, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/octopuses-could-dominate-earth-if-humans-vanish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">octopuses</a> - an indication that marine life can flourish under ice-covered regions of the Antarctic in ways not previously documented.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Antarctic-iceberg-detached_seafloor_octopus-resting_credit-SOI_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Antarctic-iceberg-detached_seafloor_octopus-resting_credit-SOI_1s.webp" alt="An octopus rests on the seafloor 1150 meters deep, in the Bellingshausen Sea off Antarctica, at an area where the shelf break and slope are cut by several underwater gullies. Credit: ROV SuBastian / Schmidt Ocean Institute" class="wp-image-1963224"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An octopus rests on the seafloor 1150 meters deep, in the Bellingshausen Sea off Antarctica, at an area where the shelf break and slope are cut by several underwater gullies. Credit: ROV SuBastian / Schmidt Ocean Institute</figcaption></figure>



According to the researchers, these observations offer insight into how ecosystems function beneath the Antarctic ice sheet. Such an ecosystem has seldom been accessed. 



Earlier findings, notably by <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Antarctic Survey</a> researchers in 2021, revealed possible bottom-dwelling life beneath ice, but the present study marks the first time an ROV survey has thoroughly documented wide areas of this vibrant seabed.



The experts were surprised by the large biomass and biodiversity in the ecosystem and suspect they have discovered several new species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-marine-life-survives-in-darkness">How marine life survives in darkness</h2>



Deep-sea ecosystems generally depend on nutrients trickling down from surface waters. However, these Antarctic seafloors had been buried under ice some 150 meters (nearly 500 feet) thick for centuries.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Antarctic-iceberg-detached_seafloor_Sponge_Anemone_credit-SOI_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Antarctic-iceberg-detached_seafloor_Sponge_Anemone_credit-SOI_1s.webp" alt="A large sponge, a cluster of anemones, and other life is seen nearly 230 meters deep at an area of the seabed that was very recently covered by the George VI Ice Shelf, a floating glacier in Antarctica. Credit: Schmidt Ocean Institute" class="wp-image-1963226"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A large sponge, a cluster of anemones, and other life is seen nearly 230 meters deep at an area of the seabed that was very recently covered by the George VI Ice Shelf, a floating glacier in Antarctica. Credit: Schmidt Ocean Institute</figcaption></figure>



With no direct sunlight, how such abundant organisms manage to feed is still uncertain. The scientists propose that ocean currents under the ice may be funneling essential nutrients to these communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antarctic-ice-sheet-behavior">Antarctic ice sheet behavior</h2>



Apart from their ecological discoveries, the international group - which included scientists from Portugal, the United Kingdom, Chile, Germany, Norway, New Zealand, and the United States - examined geological samples to gain knowledge about past changes in the Antarctic ice sheet.



The ice sheet has been shrinking and losing mass for decades in response to climate change.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Antarctic-iceberg-detached_modis-satellite-view_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Antarctic-iceberg-detached_modis-satellite-view_NASA_1s.webp" alt="The MODIS Corrected Reflectance satellite imagery showing the iceberg calved from George VI Ice Shelf in the Bellingshausen Sea on 19 January 2025. Credit: Schmidt Ocean Institute" class="wp-image-1963222"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The MODIS Corrected Reflectance satellite imagery showing the iceberg calved from George VI Ice Shelf in the Bellingshausen Sea on 19 January 2025. Credit: Schmidt Ocean Institute</figcaption></figure>



“The ice loss from the Antarctic Ice Sheet is a major contributor to sea level rise worldwide,” said co-chief scientist Sasha Montelli of <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University College London</a>, who is also a 2019 Schmidt Science Fellow.&nbsp;



“Our work is critical for providing longer-term context of these recent changes, improving our ability to make projections of future change - projections that can inform actionable policies. We will undoubtedly make new discoveries as we continue to analyze this vital data.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-samples-from-the-antarctic-seafloor">Samples from the Antarctic seafloor </h2>



During this mission, the team collected both biological and geological samples. 



In addition, they deployed autonomous underwater vehicles, called gliders, to analyze how meltwater from the ice shelf impacts the region’s physical and chemical properties. 



Preliminary measurements hinted at high biological productivity and strong meltwater flow from the George VI ice shelf, providing further context for how such deep-sea populations may thrive in these surroundings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-part-of-a-larger-global-initiative">Part of a larger global initiative</h2>



The expedition is part of Challenger 150, a global cooperative dedicated to deep-sea biological study, and recognized by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (<a href="https://www.ioc.unesco.org/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IOC/UNESCO</a>) as an Ocean Decade Action. 



This alignment ensures that findings from the George VI Ice Shelf breakage feed into broader international efforts to understand and safeguard <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-impacting-marine-life-more-than-we-realized/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine life</a>.



“The science team was originally in this remote region to study the seafloor and ecosystem at the interface between ice and sea,” noted Schmidt Ocean Institute’s executive director, Jyotika Virmani.&nbsp;



“Being right there when this iceberg calved from the ice shelf presented a rare scientific opportunity. Serendipitous moments are part of the excitement of research at sea - they offer the chance to be the first to witness the untouched beauty of our world.”



Looking ahead, the researchers plan to continue analyzing the collected data for insights into both ice sheet behavior and the unique marine life that has flourished unseen for centuries beneath the ice.&nbsp;



With accelerating climate change, the study’s findings about species adaptability and the resilience of Antarctic habitats carry implications for future conservation and policy decisions on a global scale.



<a href="https://schmidtocean.photoshelter.com/galleries/C0000QszlkoaNkKU/G0000p4LRtGEAfWo/I0000X_S5KjUr4QU/FKt250110-20250126-IceScanningCollectionAndIcebergViewing-Ingle-0202-jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">See more of the photos taken on this mission by the Schmidt Ocean Institute here...</a>



Images Credit: Schmidt Ocean Institute



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Iceberg break from Antarctica reveals seafloor full of rare and vibrant ocean creatures

An international team of researchers took advantage of a rare...

Dogs can’t speak, but they express themselves clearly through body language. A bark, a tail wag, or a growl can reveal their feelings, but to understand them better, we must learn to interpret their silent cues.



"Understanding our dogs' basic body language allows us to gain insight into their thoughts and feelings about the world around them and what they are experiencing," said Harmony Diers, a veterinary technician and project manager for the Dog Aging Project at the Texas A&amp;M <a href="https://vetmed.tamu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">College of Veterinary Medicine</a> and Biomedical Sciences.



Diers explains how common behaviors can help us understand what our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-puppy-day-2025-where-happiness-meets-responsibility/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> are trying to communicate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signs-of-a-relaxed-dog">Signs of a relaxed dog</h2>



Relaxed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-dogs-feel-smells-may-help-keep-us-safe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> show it with their entire body. Their ears may lean forward or rest gently backward. Sometimes, submissive dogs fold their ears back, but the overall signal is calmness.



One clear sign of happiness is a circular tail wag. If your dog moves its tail in a loop, that shows true joy.



You may also notice soft, squinting eyes, a steady and kind gaze, leaning against you, lying down peacefully, rolling over for belly rubs, or panting with a slightly open mouth.



"It is important to recognize a calm and content <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/petting-a-dog-might-be-the-easiest-way-to-reduce-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dog</a>'s body language to determine whether he or she is comfortable with the current environment and circumstances," Diers explained.



Understanding these signs helps you support your dog without overwhelming it or ignoring its comfort.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-dogs-want-distance">When dogs want distance</h2>



Not all body language signals comfort. Discontented <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/from-wolves-to-dogs-did-domestication-begin-without-human-help/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> often try to create space when feeling stressed.



A tucked tail usually indicates fear. A dog on high alert might raise its tail and wag it quickly, signaling tension rather than joy.



"A dog experiencing an uncomfortable situation may also turn his body away from the threat to present his back," Diers said.



Dogs sometimes shake their entire bodies after a stressful moment, similar to drying off after a bath. This helps them release built-up tension.



Ears held straight up can show readiness for action, while ears pinned close to the head show nervousness or submission. 



If your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-and-dogs-share-genes-linked-to-obesity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dog</a> stares intensely or shows the whites of its eyes - often called the "whale eye" - it may be feeling scared or trapped. Tension in the mouth, pulled lips, licking, or yawning can all be signs of stress.



Learning these signals helps protect your dog and others, especially when meeting unfamiliar dogs or entering new spaces.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-body-language-varies-by-breed">Body language varies by breed</h2>



Some breeds naturally appear alert, even when relaxed. Recognizing your dog’s baseline posture is important.



"When these dogs are in alert mode or feel threatened, the tail may go higher and stiffer and wag quickly," Diers said. For instance, German shepherds often have upright ears by nature. Huskies and malamutes usually carry curled tails, even when relaxed.



"Look at our pugs. They always have big open eyes, but if a wide-eyed pug is giving the whale eye, he may be experiencing a threat or feeling nervous."



Knowing your dog’s unique structure will help you tell the difference between comfort and caution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-illness-can-alter-body-language">Illness can alter body language</h2>



Body language doesn’t only reflect emotion. It can also signal health issues.



"An ill dog may sleep more, be grumpier and not want the normal interaction he usually gets excited about," Diers said.



A dog in pain might limp, lower its head, keep its posture stiff, tuck its belly inward, or arch its back. Whimpering may also occur. Lip-smacking could mean nausea or nervousness.



If your lively dog suddenly isolates, eats less, or shows no interest in play, something might be wrong.



"Ultimately, if your normally active and happy dog starts to isolate and show lethargy and/or decreased appetite, this is a sign that something has changed with their overall health, and seeking the care of a veterinarian is a suggested course to take," stressed Diers.



Paying attention to your dog’s body language strengthens your relationship. You build trust when you listen to their unspoken signals. Understanding what they say without words keeps them safe, happy, and healthy - and brings you even closer.



Information supplied by <a href="https://phys.org/partners/texas-a-m-university/">Texas A&amp;M University</a>.



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Want to know how your dog is feeling? Learn their body language

Dogs can’t speak, but they express themselves clearly through body...

Latimeria,Fish,Isolated,On,The,Black,Background

Among the many wonders and ancient tales about marine life and ocean creatures, one fish long believed to have vanished from our planet captured worldwide attention. 



This interest emerged from an unexpected finding that changed our perspective on what might still be lurking in the deep.



Before 1938, experts spoke of the coelacanth as a classic example of an extinct fish dating back more than 400 million years. Scholars concluded it had disappeared 65 to 70 million years ago. 



This assumption crumbled when a 32-year-old museum employee in East London, South Africa, examined a strange specimen brought by a local fisherman near the Chalumna River. The fish defied every existing category she knew.



Soon after, she contacted <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J._L._B._Smith" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor James Leonard Brierley Smith</a> of <a href="https://www.ru.ac.za/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rhodes University</a> for advice. He confirmed that the fish was indeed a living coelacanth. 



That surprise discovery shifted the zoological narrative and demonstrated how the fossil record can be incomplete, especially when only a small number of individuals survive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-fish-tale">Fascinating fish tale</h2>



In the eyes of many scientists, the coelacanth’s resurgence placed it into what is called a Lazarus taxon. The term refers to creatures that vanish from evidence, then reappear without warning. 



One telling moment from that occasion remains the telegram from Brierley Smith: “MOST IMPORTANT PRESERVE SKELETON AND GILLS = FISH DESCRIBED.” 



No one anticipated those words, yet they confirmed something rare had surfaced.



After that event, more than a decade passed before another coelacanth turned up. In 1952, two fishermen in the Comoro Islands accidentally netted the second specimen, prompting renewed fascination among marine researchers. 



A further revelation followed in the 1990s, when experts identified a second species around the Indonesian archipelago. 



These examples carry the names <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asian-megacities-at-highest-risk-from-sea-level-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">West Indian Ocean</a> coelacanth (Latimeria chalumnae) and Indonesian coelacanth (Latimeria menadoensis).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coelacanth-has-unique-physical-traits">Coelacanth has unique physical traits</h2>



This fish stands apart for its lobed pectoral fins, which appear to be an early link to vertebrates that eventually ventured onto land. These fins move in a synchronized pattern, allowing the fish to navigate underwater terrains. 



Unlike many other fishes, it also bears an unusual hinge in its skull, once a subject of speculation about how it might bite or process food.



Its coloration often blends with the rocky surroundings where it resides, offering a measure of cover in deep marine environments. 



The habitat provides sufficient shelter from predators, while the species’ low metabolism helps it survive on fewer resources. 



Scientists note that it rests in lava-cave recesses during daylight hours, an approach that likely shields it from hazards in open water.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancestral-ties-to-land-creatures">Ancestral ties to land creatures</h2>



Researchers classify the coelacanth under the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-fish-like-fossil-finally-classified/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">group Sarcopterygii</a>, or lobe-finned fishes, which include lungfish and the earliest ancestors of amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. 



Shared skeletal features, such as sturdy fin bones, point to a closer relationship with organisms that adapted to life on land. 



This connection is intriguing because it shows how certain aquatic traits can mirror structures later found in creatures roaming dry terrain.



Some studies suggest that the coelacanth’s rostral organ, located in its snout, may sense electrical signals from prey. 



That adaptation is reminiscent of strategies seen in other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coelacanth-ngamugawi-wirngarri-new-species-living-fossil-fish-survived-over-400-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lobe-finned fish</a>, hinting at a link between modern species and those that made their way onto shore millions of years ago. 



Observers note that this hidden ability emphasizes how an ancient design can remain effective.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geological-stability-has-helped-coelacanths">Geological stability has helped coelacanths</h2>



The ancient environment of undersea caverns has changed little over vast stretches of time. 



Because of this stable setting, the coelacanth has not faced the intense pressures that other species might encounter in rapidly shifting habitats. 



Food sources may be limited, but the fish’s slow pace lessens its caloric needs.



Its specialized niche also guards it from fierce competition. Other oceanic predators seldom patrol these dark, quiet zones, giving the coelacanth space to endure without altering the basic features that first appeared centuries ago. 



This alignment between organism and setting reveals a powerful strategy: remain where the external world barely intrudes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inspiring-story-of-adaptation-and-survival">Inspiring story of adaptation and survival</h2>



Many living forms adapt constantly to survive. By contrast, this fish’s story underscores how a creature can persist if external demands remain light and internal physiology fits the available conditions. 



Though it caused surprise among zoologists, the coelacanth itself quietly continued in an environment well-suited to its capabilities.



To many observers, it sparks discussions on biodiversity and the surprising ways life endures. While others might call it a relic, it is very much a survivor. 



Each sighting encourages experts to keep watching the deep sea, a region that may hold additional beings we once wrote off as extinct.



Scientists continue to investigate whether this fish harbors undiscovered traits. Each observation can add to our understanding of marine evolution. 



Observers hope that further study might shed new light on adaptations that remain hidden in dark, remote corners of the ocean.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-37849-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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World’s oldest fish was presumed extinct for 60 million years before being rediscovered

Among the many wonders and ancient tales about marine life...

The past is full of hidden secrets, and fossils offer valuable glimpses into ancient worlds. Each discovery reveals new insights into evolution, extinction, and the environmental shifts that shaped life long ago.



A recent study on a 30,000-year-old vulture fossil from Central Italy has revealed an extraordinary process of preservation. 



The researchers discovered that volcanic rock can capture microscopic details of feathers - a phenomenon that has never been documented before.



Fossilization usually occurs in sediments like mud or sand, where minerals replace organic materials over time. 



However, the vulture <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organic-molecules-collagen-discovered-in-66-million-year-old-dinosaur-bones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil</a> challenges conventional beliefs by showing how volcanic deposits can preserve soft tissues in stunning detail.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-30-000-year-old-vulture-fossil">30,000-year-old vulture fossil</h2>



The fossilized vulture was discovered in 1889 near Rome by a local landowner. Its exceptional state of preservation made it a rare find at the time.



Unlike many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/triassic-fossils-shed-new-light-on-ancient-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossils</a> that are flattened by geological pressure, this specimen retained a three-dimensional structure. Even features like eyelids and wing feathers remained intact.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/vulture-fossil-feather_volcanic-rock_credit-Edoardo-Terranova_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/vulture-fossil-feather_volcanic-rock_credit-Edoardo-Terranova_1s.webp" alt="A Fossilized feather preserved with the volcanic rock. Credit: Edoardo Terranova" class="wp-image-1963155"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A Fossilized feather preserved with the volcanic rock. Credit: Edoardo Terranova</figcaption></figure>



Despite its discovery more than a century ago, the fossil has continued to fascinate researchers. Recent advances in microscopic and chemical analysis provided scientists with tools to examine it anew, this time in unprecedented detail.



The findings have opened new doors in the study of fossilization and volcanic environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feathers-preserved-at-the-microscopic-level">Feathers preserved at the microscopic level</h2>



Dr. Valentina Rossi from University College Cork led the research team that conducted a detailed examination of the vulture fossil. 



The results, published recently in Geology, reveal that the feathers are preserved down to the microscopic level.



“Fossil feathers are usually preserved in ancient mudrocks laid down in lakes or lagoons,” noted Dr. Rossi.



“The fossil vulture is preserved in ash deposits, which is extremely unusual. When analyzing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthal-fossils-reveal-signs-of-a-population-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil</a> vulture plumage, we found ourselves in uncharted territory. These feathers are nothing like what we usually see in other fossils.”



Traditional fossilization often occurs in water-rich environments, where sediments gradually cover an animal’s remains. 



However, the vulture’s feathers survived in volcanic ash - a setting not previously recognized for preserving such delicate structures.



This raises new questions about the role of volcanic environments in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-discovery-anadoluvius-turkae-suggests-humans-originated-in-europe-not-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil</a> preservation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-zeolite-in-preservation">Role of zeolite in preservation</h2>



By analyzing tiny samples of the fossil feathers using electron microscopes and chemical tests, the researchers uncovered an unexpected preservation mechanism. 



The feathers were found to be encased in zeolite, a mineral composed of silicon and aluminum.



“Zeolites are minerals rich in silicon and aluminum and are common in volcanic and hydrothermal geological settings," Dr. Rossi explained.



"They can form as primary minerals (with pretty crystals) or can form secondarily, during the natural alteration of volcanic glass and ash, giving the rock a ‘mudrock-like’ aspect."



The team determined that water flowing through the ash layers triggered chemical changes that led to the formation of zeolite nanocrystals. These crystals replicated the feathers’ microscopic details, thus preserving them at a cellular level.



This process had never been reported before in soft tissue fossilization, making the vulture fossil a groundbreaking discovery.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserved-soft-tissues-in-a-vulture-fossil">Preserved soft tissues in a vulture fossil</h2>



Volcanic activity is usually associated with destruction, not <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-did-dinosaurs-come-from-missing-fossils-hold-the-secret/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preservation</a>. Pyroclastic flows, known for their extreme heat and rapid movement, often obliterate organic material. 



Yet, this study demonstrates that, under certain conditions, volcanic ash can encase and protect soft tissues.



“We are used to thinking that volcanic deposits are associated with hot, fast-moving pyroclastic currents that will destroy soft tissues," noted Professor Dawid A. Iurino from the University of Milan.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/vulture-fossil-feather_volcanic-rock_illustration_credit-Dawid-Iurino_1big.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/vulture-fossil-feather_volcanic-rock_illustration_credit-Dawid-Iurino_1s.webp" alt="'The Doom of the Alban Hills' a digital painting representing a possible scenario of the moments before the vulture carcass was entombed in the pyroclastic current. Credit: Dawid A. Iurino" class="wp-image-1963158"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">'The Doom of the Alban Hills' a digital painting representing a possible scenario of the moments before the vulture carcass was entombed in the pyroclastic current. Credit: Dawid A. Iurino</figcaption></figure>



"However, these geological settings are complex and can include low temperature deposits that can preserve soft tissues at the cellular level.” 



This discovery challenges the assumption that volcanic environments are unsuitable for preserving fossils. 



It suggests that low-temperature ash deposits can serve as protective enclosures for biological remains, and that this may allow scientists to study ancient creatures in ways never before possible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-the-search-for-fossils">Expanding the search for fossils </h2>



The findings have significant implications for paleontology. Scientists have long focused on sedimentary rocks when searching for well-preserved fossils, and may have overlooked volcanic deposits. This research suggests that volcanic rock may hold a hidden wealth of fossils with preserved soft tissues.



“The fossil record is continually surprising us, be it new fossil species, strange new body shapes, or in this case, new styles of fossil preservation. We never expected to find delicate tissues such as feathers preserved in a volcanic rock," stated Professor Maria McNamara from University College Cork.



"Discoveries such as these broaden the range of potential rock types where we can find fossils, even those preserving fragile soft tissues."



This revelation encourages researchers to revisit volcanic fossil sites with fresh eyes. It also raises the possibility that more fossils with soft tissue preservation are waiting to be uncovered in ash-rich environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-chapter-in-paleontology">A new chapter in paleontology</h2>



Scientific discoveries constantly reshape our understanding of the past. 



The vulture fossil provides a glimpse into an ancient world and introduces a previously unknown pathway of fossilization. 



Its preservation within volcanic rock suggests that nature’s processes are sometimes more complex than previously thought.



As researchers continue to explore this phenomenon, future studies may uncover additional cases of soft tissue preservation in volcanic deposits. 



This could revolutionize the study of fossils and expand the possibilities for finding well-preserved specimens in unexpected places.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/gsa/geology/article-abstract/doi/10.1130/G52971.1/653118/Fossil-feathers-from-the-Colli-Albani-volcanic?redirectedFrom=fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geology</a>.



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Vulture fossil reveals that volcanic rock can preserve feathers

The past is full of hidden secrets, and fossils offer...

Many spiders of the species Tegenaria pagana live in caves with limited vision, while others inhabit brighter areas.



This variation has drawn scientists to examine how genes guide the development of vision in Tegenaria pagana, including Dr. Efrat Gavish-Regev of The National Natural History Collections at <a href="https://www.studyinjerusalem.com/?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=US+ALO+Google+Search&amp;utm_content=Brand&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw4v6-BhDuARIsALprm330hDnhqhFoZdY_lS4PrH3Yg7CCnccG1xA3LYYjkgHiQcLx06llPK0aAtQ3EALw_wcB" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Hebrew University of Jerusalem</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-cave-life-affects-spider-vision">How cave life affects spider vision</h2>



Organisms in dark environments often lose some or all of their eyesight. Some, like blind fish or amphibians, compensate with heightened senses, a theme that also surfaces among <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2570642/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">subterranean spiders</a>.



Scientists are intrigued by <a href="https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/264001-Tegenaria-pagana" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tegenaria pagana</a> because different populations display varying degrees of eye size. This makes it a helpful model for those who want to uncover the gene interactions that prompt vision changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gene-expression-and-eye-formation">Gene expression and eye formation </h2>



Eye development follows a genetic blueprint known as the <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5830122/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">retinal determination network</a>. In arthropods, this set of genes can activate when cells are instructed to form visual structures.



By comparing Tegenaria pagana with more typical spiders, researchers learn how shifts in gene expression affect eye formation. One crucial discovery is the <a href="https://www.sdbonline.org/sites/fly/neural/sineocul.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sine oculis gene</a>, which they say remains vital for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sydney-funnel-web-new-giant-species-of-worlds-most-dangerous-spider-identified/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spider</a> eyesight.



The <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13227-025-00238-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">team</a> used fluorescence staining and confocal microscopy to track growth from fertilization to hatching. They noticed that even minor changes in embryonic timing can shift how eyes and other organs develop.



Different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/save-a-spider-day-protecting-our-connection-with-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spider</a> species sometimes form their body segments at varying speeds. The researchers saw that Tegenaria pagana embryos progress in unique ways, suggesting evolution can tweak shared patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cave-species-reveal-shifts-in-vision">Cave species reveal shifts in vision</h2>



Studies on cave spiders add fresh insights to our understanding of underground habitats. Predators like Tegenaria pagana can reveal how animals cope with darkness and scarce food resources.



Some relatives of Tegenaria pagana show partial or total eye reduction, creating a range of vision abilities within the same genus. 



Researchers suggest that comparing these differences could clarify the step-by-step process that leads to eye loss.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-spiders-trade-vision-for-senses">How spiders trade vision for senses</h2>



One focus of this <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13227-025-00238-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> involved scanning a suite of genes for signs of activity in forming eyes. Each gene has a job, and if one is missing, the spider’s vision may never fully develop.



Scientists note that several <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rethinking-arachnid-evolution-the-surprising-history-of-spiders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genes</a> contribute to shaping optical tissues. This offers a clue to why some cave spiders can still see to some extent while others become blind.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-to-life-in-darkness">Adapting to life in darkness</h2>



Reduced vision can open opportunities for enhanced contact-sensitive hairs, odor detection, or other senses. Many cave dwellers prove that what is lost in one sense often appears elsewhere.



Such trade-offs draw evolutionary biologists to cave systems worldwide. Tegenaria pagana adds a spider’s perspective to these discussions, highlighting how genes adapt in areas where light is absent.



“This research provides an essential reference for understanding how developmental and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/slingshot-spiders-listen-for-the-right-moment-to-launch-their-webs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic factors</a> influence eye formation in spiders.” said Dr. Gavish-Regev.



She emphasized that several Tegenaria species in Israel have assorted vision traits. This variety lets researchers gauge how gene interactions shift in response to environments with little to no light.



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



The next research steps might involve tracking similar genes in spiders that have fully lost their eyes. Tests on <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/figure/List-of-troglomorphic-troglobitic-species-recorded-in-the-sampled-caves-in-the-Brazilian_tbl1_283984196" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">troglomorphic species</a> could lead to deeper insights into how certain genes shut down or reroute.



Findings from Tegenaria pagana may even relate to vision changes in <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gregor-Aljancic-2/publication/269463496_Biology_and_functional_morphology_of_Proteus_anguinus_Amphibia_Caudata/links/548c45060cf2d1800d7dc089/Biology-and-functional-morphology-of-Proteus-anguinus-Amphibia-Caudata.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other cave life</a>, such as crustaceans or amphibians that shed visual capacity over time.



The search for parallels across distant groups intrigues biologists who want to see if evolution follows similar scripts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dramatic-shifts-in-subterranean-spiders">Dramatic shifts in subterranean spiders</h2>



Lab-raised populations of Tegenaria pagana promise a clearer picture of how vision genes behave during each developmental stage. Eggs collected at different intervals let scientists catch gene signals before any tissue forms.



Future research could test if genetic tweaks at early phases can produce permanent vision defects. If so, we might begin to link gene events to the dramatic shifts seen in subterranean spiders.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-gene-changes-affect-vision">Small gene changes affect vision</h2>



Tegenaria pagana shows that minor changes in genes can have major effects on sight. These cave spiders add new angles to old questions about how organisms negotiate harsh, light-free habitats.



Experts plan to examine related species with fewer or missing eyes to see if the same genes come into play. This could clarify whether vision reduction follows similar routes in various caves.



Insights from Tegenaria pagana may guide future pest control strategies in human structures. By grasping how vision genes shift, we might refine ways to manage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-spiders-outsmart-predators-imitating-mimicking-ants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiders</a> that thrive in dark corners.



Cave exploration groups can also benefit from this line of research, as understanding spider adaptations can provide insights into ecosystem health. If these spiders fail to maintain normal development, it might signal shifts in subterranean environments.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gregor-Aljancic-2/publication/269463496_Biology_and_functional_morphology_of_Proteus_anguinus_Amphibia_Caudata/links/548c45060cf2d1800d7dc089/Biology-and-functional-morphology-of-Proteus-anguinus-Amphibia-Caudata.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EvoDevo</a>.



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Spiders reveal how cave creatures lose their vision over time

Many spiders of the species Tegenaria pagana live in caves...

There’s something timeless about the way a puppy looks at you. Wide eyes, wagging tail, a little clumsy in its steps - that kind of innocence tugs at the heart. Puppies don’t ask for much, yet they give everything. They trust without question, love without conditions, and fill silence with soft breathing and happy barks. That’s why every year, on March 23, we celebrate National Puppy Day.



But while this day showers attention on wagging tails and floppy ears, it also carries a deeper purpose - one of compassion, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pandemic-puppy-owners-report-challenges-but-remain-committed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">awareness</a>, and responsibility.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-purpose-of-national-puppy-day">Purpose of National Puppy Day</h2>



1National Puppy Day began in 2006, thanks to <a href="https://www.colleenpaige.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colleen Paige</a>, an animal behaviorist and author. Her goal wasn’t just to fill the world with cute puppy pictures. She established this day to spotlight the rising concerns around puppy mills and animal homelessness.



With millions of puppies born into poor conditions every year, the world needed a day that reminded people to adopt, not shop.



Colleen Paige wanted the public to understand that many dogs in shelters wait for homes while puppies are bred for profit in overcrowded and inhumane facilities. Puppy mills often keep mother dogs in cages with barely enough space to turn around. 



These mothers are bred repeatedly until they are too old or sick, at which point they are discarded. Puppies from these mills often suffer from health problems due to poor breeding practices and lack of medical care.



National Puppy Day isn't just a feel-good moment. It’s a social movement wrapped in soft fur and bright eyes. By choosing to adopt from shelters instead of buying from pet stores or online breeders, people can disrupt this cycle of cruelty. 



Paige’s initiative has since gained worldwide recognition, sparking conversations about animal rights and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/many-people-experience-puppy-blues-with-a-new-pet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">responsible pet care</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-puppy-mill-problem">The puppy mill problem</h2>



Puppy mills are not rare. In the United States alone, there are an estimated 10,000 of these commercial breeding facilities. These mills collectively produce over 2 million <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/petting-a-dog-might-be-the-easiest-way-to-reduce-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">puppies</a> each year, many of which end up in pet shops or are sold online.



Meanwhile, nearly the same number of dogs are euthanized annually in overcrowded shelters. This staggering contrast reveals a harsh truth - there is no shortage of dogs in need of homes, only a shortage of awareness.



Puppy mills focus on quantity, not quality. Dogs are often kept in wire cages without proper bedding, food, or medical care. Their emotional needs are ignored. 



Mothers give birth repeatedly without rest, their bodies weakening over time. Puppies raised in these conditions may look healthy but often carry long-term health and behavioral issues.



By adopting, potential pet owners help break the cycle. Adoption gives homeless dogs a second chance and reduces the demand for mass breeding. National Puppy Day calls on people to educate themselves, their families, and their communities about the potentially cruel conditions in which many puppies are bred.



Change begins with knowing the truth, and this day is about more than just cuddles - it’s about making informed, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-suffer-from-the-january-blues-just-like-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">compassionate choices</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-make-national-puppy-day-count">Make National Puppy Day count</h2>



March 23 should be more than just a day to post photos. It should be a moment of reflection, kindness, and action. People can celebrate by visiting local shelters, spending time with the animals, and learning more about how they can help. 



Shelters often use this day to host special events, encouraging community members to meet adoptable puppies and learn about rescue work.



Even if adopting isn’t an option right now, there are other ways to support the cause. Volunteering time, donating supplies, or simply sharing information online can help shelters find loving homes for their animals. 



Raising awareness within your own network can lead to more adoptions, better understanding, and stronger support systems for animals in need.



For those with pets already, National Puppy Day is a lovely excuse to give them extra attention. A longer walk, a new toy, or a few more minutes of playtime can mean the world to a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-dogs-feel-smells-may-help-keep-us-safe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">puppy</a>. These small moments remind us why dogs are considered to be man’s best friend.



They bring loyalty, joy, and a kind of companionship that’s hard to find elsewhere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-puppy-facts-that-brighten-the-day">Puppy facts that brighten the day</h2>



Puppies may be young, but they have fascinating quirks that make them even more lovable. Most puppies sleep between 15 and 20 hours a day. This sleep fuels their rapid growth and development.



Dalmatians, known for their spots, are actually born without any. Their signature markings develop as they grow older. In rare cases, light-haired puppies are born with a green tint from a pigment in the womb - a color that fades within a few days.



The smallest adult dog ever recorded was just 3.8 inches (9.6 centimeters) tall. On the other end of the scale is the famous floral sculpture in Bilbao, Spain - a forty-foot-tall (12 meter) puppy covered in tens of thousands of fresh flowers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-day-to-celebrate-and-reflect">A day to celebrate and reflect</h2>



National Puppy Day 2025 is more than a celebration of cuteness. It’s a reminder that love comes with responsibility. 



Puppies are not toys. They are living beings who need time, patience, and care. Dogs deserve safe homes, not cages. They deserve kindness, not neglect.



Whether you have a dog, want one, or just love seeing them in your feed, March 23 is a day to pause and consider how we treat animals in general, and how we can do better.



So this year, take a moment to celebrate the joy of puppies. But also take a step toward change. Visit a shelter. Share a story. Adopt if you’re ready. Speak up when you see cruelty. Because behind every happy bark is a chance to build a more compassionate world. 



And every puppy, no matter where it starts, deserves that chance.



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National Puppy Day 2025: Where happiness meets responsibility

There’s something timeless about the way a puppy looks at...

Feathers did not arrive in nature as fully formed tools for flight. Their development began long before birds took to the sky. The fossil record tells a story that stretches back over 200 million years.



Now, with the help of genetic tools and carefully timed experiments, scientists can reawaken ancient traits inside of modern embryos.



This is not just about feathers. It's about how complexity arises, how it endures, and how biology protects the structures it builds. By reversing certain steps in feather <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/from-dinosaurs-to-birds-the-mysterious-origin-of-feathers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">development</a>, researchers reveal a hidden resilience. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feather-development-before-birds">Feather development before birds</h2>



The earliest feathers didn’t help animals fly. Instead, they started as simple, hollow filaments. These "proto-feathers" likely emerged in some dinosaurs during the Triassic period, around 200 million years ago. 



There’s even evidence they may have evolved earlier, in a common ancestor of dinosaurs and pterosaurs nearly 240 million years ago.



Unlike modern feathers, proto-feathers had no central shaft, no branching barbs, and no follicle. But they still served a purpose. They helped with insulation and may have acted as colorful or patterned signals during social interaction. 



Over time, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-evolution-timeline-pushed-back-20-million-years-by-baminornis-zhenghensis-discovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural selection</a> shaped feathers into complex tools that now support everything from flight to waterproofing.



This progression - from basic filaments to branched, aerodynamic feathers - didn’t happen randomly. It followed a path written in genes, using signaling pathways shared across the animal kingdom.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-hidden-in-bird-embryos">Clues hidden in bird embryos</h2>



Modern bird embryos offer a way to retrace this path. At the <a href="https://www.unige.ch/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Geneva</a>, Professor Michel Milinkovitch and his team have explored the genetics of feather formation. Their lab focuses on how molecular signals drive the development of skin structures like scales, hair, and feathers.



One such signaling system, the Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) pathway, plays a crucial role in shaping feathers. In earlier studies, the team activated this pathway in chicken embryos. 



The result was remarkable - scales on the feet of the birds transformed into permanent feathers. That experiment proved how a single shift in signaling can alter skin identity.



But what would happen if the Shh pathway were blocked instead?



"Feathers, ancient and intricate, still hold secrets that science is just beginning to unlock," noted Rory Cooper, lead author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-feather-development-recreated">Ancient feather development recreated</h2>



To investigate, the researchers injected a drug called sonidegib into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-wings-inspire-improvements-in-airplane-safety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chicken</a> embryos on their ninth day of development.



This drug shuts down the Shh pathway by targeting a key protein called Smoothened. The timing was crucial - day nine is when feather placodes begin to form, marking the start of feather bud development.



The results were dramatic. Feather buds failed to grow and remained short and unbranched. The typical invagination that forms a feather follicle was absent. Instead, the skin developed smooth, hollow filaments - almost identical to proto-feathers seen in fossils.



This temporary block in development held until the fourteenth day. After that, something unexpected happened. Feather growth resumed on its own. Chicks that hatched had patches of bare skin, but over the next several weeks, those areas filled in with normal feathers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-closer-look-at-how-feathers-recover">A closer look at how feathers recover</h2>



The researchers tracked development from embryo to hatchling using imaging and RNA sequencing. They confirmed that the Shh pathway was indeed suppressed. 



Key genes like Ptch1, Ptch2, and Gli1 were all turned down. These genes normally guide outgrowth, branching, and follicle formation. Blocking them prevented barbs and ridges from forming.



Microscopy revealed that in high-dose treatments, feather buds remained fused, stubby, and lacked branching. 



Follicle invagination - the folding-in of the skin to support feather roots - was completely absent. But despite all this, the system rebounded. By 49 days after hatching, the chicks showed normal feather coverage.



The only part that didn’t return to normal? The flight feathers. These specialized feathers, located on the posterior edge of the wing, failed to form correctly in high-dose embryos. 



Even weeks later, their positions were filled by smaller, contour-type <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-and-why-tropical-birds-are-so-strikingly-colorful-and-iridescent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feathers</a>. This indicated that some aspects of feather identity are locked to narrow developmental windows.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timing-is-everything">Timing is everything</h2>



To verify that the observed effects were specific to Shh signaling, the team ran a second experiment. They combined the Shh-blocking drug with a Shh activator known as SAG. If feathers could be restored this way, it would confirm that both molecules act directly on the same pathway.



And they were. Chicks treated with both sonidegib and SAG developed normal feathers. Even when SAG was delivered one or two days after sonidegib, the feathers grew, branched, and invaginated as they should. 



Only late treatment - beyond day eleven - led to partial recovery. This showed that timing is everything in embryonic development.



"Our experiments show that while a transient disturbance in the development of foot scales can permanently turn them into feathers, it is much harder to permanently disrupt feather development itself," noted Michel Milinkovitch.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feathers-recover-scales-do-not">Feathers recover, scales do not</h2>



This recovery points to something fundamental about feathers. They grow from follicles that contain stem cells. These cells regenerate feathers cyclically throughout a bird’s life. 



In contrast, scales - like those on a bird’s foot - do not grow from follicles and cannot regenerate. That may explain why transformed foot scales remain feathers, while disrupted feathers bounce back.



Even at the gene expression level, this distinction is clear. After sonidegib treatment, the feathers showed temporary suppression of hundreds of genes tied to structure and shape - keratin production, signaling gradients, and branching formation. 



But the spatial map of feather follicles remained intact. Once signaling returned, so did the feathers.



Flight feathers, however, rely on precise placement and signaling levels during a short developmental window. If Shh signaling is missing at that moment, the opportunity is lost. The feather becomes ordinary, not aerodynamic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-mechanisms-modern-precision">Ancient mechanisms, modern precision</h2>



The entire experiment rests on a principle called reaction-diffusion. It’s a model that explains how patterns like stripes, spots, and ridges form in living tissues. 



The Shh protein works as an activator, while another molecule, Bmp2, acts as its inhibitor. Together, they create a spatial map that tells cells where to grow barbs, shafts, or follicles.



By altering the Shh signal, scientists rewrote this map. The result: broad stripes of gene activity replaced the usual dotted pattern of feather placodes. This type of disruption aligns with theories on how feathers evolved from simpler, unbranched structures. 



Proto-feathers didn’t have a patterned map yet - just the beginnings of one.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feather-development-and-evolution">Feather development and evolution</h2>



The study does more than recreate an ancient structure. It shows that feather development is built to recover from disruption. 



This makes sense from an evolutionary point of view. Feathers are essential to survival in many bird species. Evolution may have shaped them to resist failure - much like a city has backup systems to keep it running.



And yet, these systems remain open to change. By manipulating just one pathway, scientists can trigger a full shift in identity - from scale to feather. Or they can recreate traits that vanished millions of years ago.



It’s a reminder that the genetic blueprint of life is both sturdy and flexible. The key lies not in the parts themselves, but in the timing and tuning of their signals. Feathers evolved through such changes - and continue to teach us how form and function intertwine across deep time.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosbiology/article?id=10.1371/journal.pbio.3003061" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS Biology</a>.



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Chicken embryos reveal secrets of early feather development

Feathers did not arrive in nature as fully formed tools...

A newly published study paints a grim picture for amphibians in the Upper Paraguay River Basin, which includes the vast Pantanal wetlands and surrounding areas. The researchers predict that the region may lose almost all suitable habitats for toads, frogs, and tree frogs by 2100. 



The findings emerge from a collaboration between researchers from Brazil and Switzerland, who combined species distribution data with climate modeling.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-most-amphibians-will-lose-their-habitats">Most amphibians will lose their habitats</h2>



The experts cross-referenced locations of amphibian species with two greenhouse gas emissions scenarios (one optimistic, one pessimistic). The team concluded that more than 80% of amphibian <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amphibians-are-being-pushed-beyond-their-heat-limits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> in the Upper Paraguay River Basin would lose suitable habitats.



In the optimistic scenario, 99.87% of the basin would experience local extinctions, and in the pessimistic one, this figure rises to 99.99% of the region, according to lead author Matheus Oliveira Neves of the <a href="http://www.ufmt.br/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Federal University of Mato Grosso</a> (UFMT).&nbsp;



With these numbers, there is scant room left for doubt: amphibian biodiversity in the Pantanal and nearby zones appears to be on a steep and accelerating decline.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-current-protection-falls-short">Current protection falls short</h2>



The researchers also found that existing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/protected-areas-slow-down-biodiversity-loss-but-they-cant-reverse-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protected areas</a> - integral conservation units - cover only 5.85% of the territory, and within those reserves, less than 5% of amphibians’ geographical ranges are effectively safeguarded. 



“Fully protected conservation units are currently doing very little to protect amphibian species in the Pantanal,” said Brazilian researcher Mario Ribeiro Moura, who coordinated the project while at the <a href="https://www.ib.unicamp.br/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Biology of the State University of Campinas</a> (IB-UNICAMP). Moura is now a professor at the <a href="https://www.ufpb.br/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Federal University of Paraíba</a> (UFPB).



The international community, alarmed by the accelerating loss of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-light-sustains-biodiversity-over-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>, recently called for 30% of Earth’s surface to be set aside in protected areas by 2030. Moura notes that right now, this coverage stands at just 17%, including both conservation units and indigenous lands.&nbsp;



He and his team argue for the creation of new protection zones and enlargement of existing ones, focusing on regions that modeling indicates will remain relatively hospitable to amphibians as climate change advances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-two-divergent-climate-futures">Two divergent climate futures</h2>



The research used future climate projections from the <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change</a> (IPCC). In one model, an optimistic scenario keeps emissions at current levels, leading to an estimated 2 °C increase by 2100.&nbsp;



In a more pessimistic model, emissions continue to rise, potentially pushing the temperature up by 4 °C by century’s end.&nbsp;



For the Upper Paraguay River Basin - including parts of Paraguay and Bolivia - the difference between these scenarios translates into a near-total collapse (99.87% or 99.99%, respectively) of viable amphibian habitats.



The team relied on more than 4,000 records for 74 amphibian species native to the basin. These species encompass a wide range of frogs, toads, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-frogs-live-in-trees-but-lay-eggs-on-the-ground/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree frogs</a> that are highly dependent on moisture and aquatic environments - features that climate change, habitat conversion, and other human impacts are making increasingly rare or degraded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-few-viable-refuges-in-the-future">Few viable refuges in the future</h2>



Even in the best-case scenario, the study suggests that the most likely refuges for amphibians occur near Cuiabá in northern Mato Grosso, on the edge of the Cerrado savannah, and in the southeast near Campo Grande in Mato Grosso do Sul state.&nbsp;



Some southwestern areas near the Paraguayan Chaco may remain viable as well. However, these spots represent only a fraction of the Upper Paraguay River Basin.



The researchers also found that among the protected areas currently established, hardly any harbor an amphibian diversity above the baseline.&nbsp;



While a small number of protected zones may actually see unexpected gains in species, the authors caution that the net picture is one of overall loss.&nbsp;



“In summary, only 13.7% of the current protected areas in the Upper Paraguay River Basin have the potential to host more or lose fewer species in at least one future scenario. Most of these areas are indigenous lands,” noted Moura.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-habitats-for-amphibians">Protecting habitats for amphibians </h2>



Moura and colleagues advocate for a combination of new conservation areas, expanded existing reserves, and changes in land use practices that limit the destruction of aquatic ecosystems. They further stress the magnitude of the climate challenge.&nbsp;



“While the Paris Agreement aimed to limit the global temperature increase to 1.5 °C by the end of the century, we already reached that level in 2024,” Moura said.&nbsp;



In his opinion, the global economic model remains deeply entwined with fossil fuel consumption, and without “radical” mitigation steps, both biodiversity and human society face profound risks.



For the amphibians of the Upper Paraguay River Basin - creatures that rely on stable, humid environments - time is running out.&nbsp;



The results indicate that if greenhouse gas emissions continue unabated, nearly all of the watery niches they need could vanish, drastically shrinking populations and possibly setting the stage for mass regional extinctions. 



On the other hand, through determined conservation policy and aggressive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-action-and-biodiversity-striking-the-right-balance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate action</a>, it may still be possible to give these species a chance to survive and thrive well beyond this century.



The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.14846" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Applied Ecology</a>.



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99% habitat loss: The dire future of amphibians in the Pantanal

A newly published study paints a grim picture for amphibians...

Humans are having a highly detrimental impact on biodiversity worldwide. Not only is the number of species declining, but the composition of species communities is also changing.&nbsp;



These are the findings of a study by the <a href="https://www.eawag.ch/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology</a> (Eawag).



“It is one of the largest syntheses of the human impacts on biodiversity ever conducted worldwide,” said Florian Altermatt, a professor of aquatic ecology at the University of Zurich and head of a research group at Eawag.



Many previous studies have addressed the threat of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-biggest-drivers-of-biodiversity-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species loss</a>. Yet most such efforts focused on particular ecosystems, a single human activity, or localized conditions, making it challenging to draw broad conclusions. 



This new study attempts an unprecedented synthesis: it compares nearly 50,000 sites around the world subject to human influence with an equal number of reference sites that remain relatively untouched. 



By covering terrestrial, freshwater, and marine environments and targeting everything from microbes and fungi to larger organisms such as fish, birds, and mammals, the researchers provide a uniquely comprehensive snapshot of biodiversity challenges across the globe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-pressures-on-ecosystems">Human pressures on ecosystems</h2>



The project examines the five principal human activities that affect biodiversity: habitat modification, direct exploitation (e.g., hunting or fishing), climate change, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/understanding-how-air-pollution-forms-may-help-us-prevent-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a>, and invasive species.&nbsp;



“We analyzed the effects of the five main human impacts on biodiversity: habitat changes, direct exploitation such as hunting or fishing, climate change, pollution and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/growing-threat-of-invasive-species-requires-immediate-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invasive species</a>," said lead author François Keck, a scientist at Eawag.



"Our findings show that all five factors have a strong impact on biodiversity worldwide, in all groups of organisms and in all ecosystems."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-species-numbers-at-impacted-sites">Species numbers at impacted sites </h2>



One clear outcome is that species numbers at impacted sites were nearly 20% lower than at unaffected ones. 



Vertebrates such as reptiles, amphibians, and mammals stand out for their major declines, likely because they typically have smaller population sizes and can vanish more readily.



However, beyond just the loss of species, the researchers also documented considerable shifts in the types of species that persist under human pressure.&nbsp;



“It’s not just the number of species that is declining,” Keck noted. “Human pressure is also changing the composition of species communities.”&nbsp;



That means even if the overall number of species remains the same at a site, the functions those species perform might be different, leading to potential disruptions in ecosystem services and stability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drastic-changes-from-human-pressure">Drastic changes from human pressure</h2>



Environmental pollution and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/koalas-face-critical-threats-from-disease-and-habitat-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat loss</a> emerged from the study as especially damaging. Habitat modification frequently involves stark, abrupt transformations of a region - for example, clearing forests or converting grasslands to farmland.&nbsp;



Pollution introduces hazardous substances into the ecosystem, including everything from oil spills to agricultural pesticides. These drastic changes can weaken or kill resident organisms.



In contrast, climate change - though likely a major long-term threat - did not stand out as prominently within the timeframe of data analyzed, which Altermatt attributes to potential time lags. “However, it is likely that the full extent of its impact cannot yet be verified today,” he said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-homogenization-or-collapse">Homogenization - or collapse?</h2>



Another important finding concerns the degree of similarity among different species communities (often termed “homogenization”). Large-scale farming tends to homogenize landscapes, making ecological communities more uniform.&nbsp;



But the study also uncovered cases where communities grew more dissimilar from one another, particularly in severely impacted locations.



“The human influence that we find is sometimes so strong that there are even signs that could indicate a complete collapse of the species communities,” Altermatt explained. Such changes might reflect temporary upheavals in biodiversity that could herald further declines.



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



One critical lesson from this study is that measuring biodiversity strictly by counting species may overlook significant community-level changes.&nbsp;



A site could hold the same number of species as before, yet the particular species present could shift in ways detrimental to essential ecosystem services - like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollinators-are-disappearing-and-its-bad-news-for-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollination</a>, soil stability, or water purification.



The magnitude and universality of the findings “provide clear indications of which human influences are having the greatest impact on biodiversity,” Keck said. “This also shows what goals need to be set if these trends are to be reversed.”



Though every region and ecosystem experiences different pressures, the authors hope the results offer a sort of benchmark. Policymakers, conservationists, and land managers could lean on these large-scale insights as they devise more localized strategies to safeguard biodiversity.&nbsp;



For instance, focusing on preserving or restoring specific habitats, curbing pollution, or carefully managing invasive species might bring tangible benefits more swiftly than previously realized.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-alter-ecosystems-worldwide">Humans alter ecosystems worldwide</h2>



Ultimately, the study emphasizes that humans are altering the face of ecosystems worldwide - not just through outright loss of species, but also by reshaping the composition of those that remain. 



The authors warn that these changes can reverberate throughout ecosystems, undermining everything from pollinator networks to fisheries. 



As the scientists emphasize, the next step is to use these insights to inform meaningful action on behalf of the countless species that still share our planet.



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Human pressure is changing biodiversity faster than we realize

Humans are having a highly detrimental impact on biodiversity worldwide....

Tucked into the highlands of southern Ecuador, a new nature reserve has just been established in Selva Alegre to protect an endangered bird, the Red-faced Parrot.



With fewer than 2,400 individuals left in the wild, these rare parrots now have a dedicated sanctuary where they can thrive.



The newly established Ecuador Ridgely Reserve goes beyond protecting a single species - it contributes to restoring vital ecosystems and enhancing the well-being of nearby communities.



This initiative is the result of efforts by scientists from the <a href="https://abcbirds.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Bird Conservancy</a> (ABC), Fundación de Conservación Jocotoco, and Rainforest Trust.



Together with support from the Conserva Aves initiative, the Ridgely Reserve was established to preserve vital habitat in the Chilla Mountain Range, near the city of Saraguro in the province of Loja.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protection-for-the-red-faced-parrot">Protection for the Red-faced Parrot</h2>



The Red-faced Parrot is one of the rarest parrots in the world. It depends on the unique climate and biodiversity of tropical high-elevation forests to survive.



“The Red-faced Parrot is a very rare <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hundreds-of-bird-species-face-extinction-risks-in-the-neotropics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neotropical species</a> whose habitat is restricted to montane cloud forests of southern Ecuador and adjacent northern Peru,” said Marcelo F. Tognelli, international project officer at ABC.



“Unfortunately, deforestation and habitat loss have been contributing to its rapid decline. The creation of the Ridgley Reserve in southern Ecuador will help ensure this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/conservation-efforts-must-cross-borders-to-save-endangered-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endangered species</a> thrives by improving habitat connectivity, while also providing a healthier environment for local communities.”



The reserve spans 518 acres (210 hectares) and is expected to expand to 1,388 acres (500 hectares). It lies along a mix of high Andean and stunted forest terrain, gradually giving way to Páramo grasslands, pine stands, eucalyptus groves, and areas affected by grazing and agriculture.



Though the area has not been extensively surveyed, over 90 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urbanization-is-a-threat-to-78-of-the-worlds-bird-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird species</a> have already been recorded. The Red-faced Parrot has been consistently observed there since the mid-1990s, making it the most reliable site for seeing this elusive bird.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-conservation-legacy">A conservation legacy</h2>



The Ridgely Reserve honors the work of Dr. Robert Ridgely, a renowned ornithologist and longtime advocate for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-birds-diving-petrels-return-home-island-conservation-efforts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird conservation</a>. His decades of travel and field research in South America helped document countless bird species and inspired conservation projects across the continent.



Through his collaboration with local communities, he also trained local monitors to track <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-migratory-birds-navigate-with-such-accuracy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migratory birds</a> - laying the foundation for sustainable protection efforts that continue today.



"Bob Ridgely and all the other founders of Jocotoco have created a remarkable legacy by establishing our reserves, founding the Jocotoco Foundation, and expanding our protected areas across Ecuador,” said Martin Schaefer, CEO of Jocotoco. 



“Today, we can see how that legacy has flourished, with the Ridgely Reserve in southern Ecuador serving as a prime example." 



"This new sanctuary in Selva Alegre, home to the world's largest known population of the endangered Red-faced Parrot, shows our commitment to safeguarding Ecuador's incredible biodiversity."



The reserve also represents a personal milestone for Dr. Ridgely’s conservation work. James Deutsch, CEO of Rainforest Trust, noted that Dr. Ridgely has committed his life to conserving Ecuador's biodiversity, and it is so fitting that his name will grace the newest reserve established and managed by the Ecuadorian NGO he founded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reconnecting-fragmented-forests">Reconnecting fragmented forests</h2>



In the last 30 years, southern Ecuador has seen extensive deforestation. Forest has been cleared for agriculture and cattle grazing, and these activities now occupy nearly half of Selva Alegre.



This fragmentation has had a severe effect on biodiversity, especially on species such as the Red-faced Parrot that are extremely sensitive to habitat disturbance.



Consequently, the bird was recently uplisted from “Least Concern” to “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List. Habitat loss and fragmentation have rendered its survival more doubtful.



The establishment of the Ridgely Reserve solves these issues at the source by reconnecting forest fragments, rehabilitating degraded land, and providing space for the parrot and other species to heal. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-people-and-nature">Supporting people and nature</h2>



Ecuador, a country roughly the size of Colorado, is home to nearly 1,600 bird species - twice the number found in the United States. This extraordinary biodiversity highlights the urgency of conservation efforts in the region.



The Ridgely Reserve not only protects birds, but also supports human communities. It helps preserve clean water sources, stabilize soils to prevent landslides, and maintain the health of ecosystems that local people depend on for farming and daily life.



Jocotoco, which has led many of these efforts, has become a key player in conservation and nature-based tourism in Ecuador. 



The organization continues to expand its network of protected areas across the country. Jocotoco and the Rainforest Trust have collaborated on 14 conservation projects covering over 63,000 acres, with more in progress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-movement-for-the-red-faced-parrot">A movement for the Red-faced Parrot</h2>



This new reserve is also part of the broader Conserva Aves initiative. Led by ABC, the National Audubon Society, the ultimate goal is to create 100 new subnational protected areas across Latin America and the Caribbean, protecting at least 4.9 million acres in total.



For ABC, creating protected areas has been central to its mission for 30 years. Working with local partners and communities, ABC has helped protect over 1.1 million acres in more than 100 reserves across 15 countries, benefiting thousands of bird species.



As conservation challenges grow more urgent, efforts like these demonstrate what’s possible when organizations and communities work together to protect both nature and people. 



The Ridgely Reserve is more than just a name - it’s a promise to future generations that rare species like the Red-faced Parrot will have a fighting chance.



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Ecuador’s Red-faced Parrot gets a new home

Tucked into the highlands of southern Ecuador, a new nature...

Animals love to show off with color, especially when it comes to mating. Birds, in particular, often use bright feathers to catch the eye of a potential mate. But lately, scientists have noticed something even cooler - some birds glow using biofluorescence.



This incredible transformation happens when their feathers absorb UV light and shine it back as visible color - usually green or yellowish.



In a recent study, researchers took a close look at all 45 species of birds-of-paradise, those famously flashy birds known for their over-the-top feathers and wild dance moves. 



Turns out, almost all of them glow in some way - 37 species to be exact. Only a few closely related ones didn’t.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biofluorescence-and-birds-of-paradise">Biofluorescence and birds-of-paradise</h2>



Male birds-of-paradise show off their glow in all the right places: their beaks, the insides of their mouths, and feathers on their heads, necks, bellies, and those fancy plumes. 



Female birds glow too, but mainly on the chest and belly.



Most of the glowing colors fall into that green to yellow-green range, shining brightest around 520–560 nanometers on the light spectrum. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/bird-of-paradise_plummage_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/bird-of-paradise_plummage_1s.webp" alt="Some Birds-of-paradise, like this one, use biofluorescence and glow in wavelengths that humans can't see." class="wp-image-1963524"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Some Birds-of-paradise, like this one, use biofluorescence and glow in wavelengths that humans can't see. Click to enlarge.</figcaption></figure>



All signs point to one thing: male birds-of-paradise probably use this glowing trick to turn up the wow factor during mating displays and social interactions.



The research was conducted by scientists at the American Museum of Natural History (<a href="https://www.amnh.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AMNH</a>) and the <a href="https://www.unl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Nebraska-Lincoln</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adding-a-glow-to-mating-rituals">Adding a glow to mating rituals</h2>



Birds-of-paradise inhabit regions in eastern Australia, Indonesia, and New Guinea. For generations, they have intrigued scientists with elaborate feather displays and acrobatic dances that males use to court females.&nbsp;



Bioluminescence is a phenomenon in which an organism absorbs light at one wavelength, then emits it at another



The new evidence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cats-glow-in-the-dark-fluorescence-found-to-be-very-common-in-mammals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biofluorescence</a> suggests that these dazzling birds might have yet another visual trick: a layer of fluorescent signals invisible to humans without specialized instruments.



Rene Martin is the study’s lead author and an assistant professor at the <a href="https://www.unl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Nebraska-Lincoln</a>.&nbsp;



“The unique <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/whale-shark-mating-behaviors-observed-for-the-first-time-in-the-wild/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mating rituals</a> and displays of birds-of-paradise have fascinated scientists and spurred a myriad of studies focused on trait evolution and sexual selection,” said Martin. 



“It seems fitting that these flashy birds are likely signaling to each other in additional, flashy ways.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-detecting-fluorescence-in-birds-of-paradise">Detecting fluorescence in birds-of-paradise </h2>



The research draws on specimens collected since the 1800s, held in the <a href="https://www.amnh.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Museum of Natural History</a>’s extensive ornithology collection.&nbsp;



A decade ago, Museum Curator John Sparks - an ichthyologist by training - noticed that certain bird species, including some birds-of-paradise, glowed green-yellow when exposed to specific wavelengths of light. This led him and colleagues to begin a deeper exploration of avian biofluorescence.



“Despite there being over 10,000 described avian species, with numerous studies that have documented their bright plumage, elaborate mating displays, and excellent vision, surprisingly very few have investigated the presence of biofluorescence,” Sparks said.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/bird-of-paradise_Paradisaea-guilielmi_Biofluorescence_credit-Rene-Martin_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/bird-of-paradise_Paradisaea-guilielmi_Biofluorescence_credit-Rene-Martin_1s.webp" alt="Biofluorescence is seen on an emperor bird-of-paradise (Paradisaea guilielmi) in the American Museum of Natural History's collection. Credit: Rene Martin" class="wp-image-1963519"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Biofluorescence is seen on an emperor bird-of-paradise (Paradisaea guilielmi) in the American Museum of Natural History's collection. Click to enlarge. Credit: Rene Martin</figcaption></figure>



Martin, who conducted this work while a postdoctoral researcher at the Museum, and Emily Carr, a PhD candidate in the Museum’s <a href="https://www.amnh.org/research/richard-gilder-graduate-school" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Richard Gilder Graduate School</a>, took Sparks’ initial findings and broadened the analysis. 



Using ultraviolet (UV) light, the team discovered that the birds not only glow under blue wavelengths but also fluoresce strongly under UV exposure. 



This effect was mainly observed on male plumage patches crucial to courtship, such as the head, belly, and neck, as well as mouth and bill linings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biofluorescence-is-most-pronounced-in-males">Biofluorescence is most pronounced in males</h2>



The researchers found that this fluorescence is especially vibrant in males, often concentrated in areas highlighted during mating rituals.&nbsp;



Meanwhile, females also exhibit it, though to a lesser degree - primarily on their chests and bellies. The study suggests that the equatorial environments in which these birds live offer abundant and varied light conditions, possibly enhancing the visibility and function of biofluorescence.



“These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-extinctions-shatter-the-harmonious-balance-of-nature/">birds</a> live near the equator, where there is an abundance of bright solar light year-round, and they live in forests where the complexity of light is significantly affected by differences in the canopy and where biofluorescent signals may be enhanced,” Carr said.



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



Recent studies in closely related species indicate that birds-of-paradise have eye pigments aligned with the fluorescence peaks measured in this study - meaning they can likely perceive these glowing patches.&nbsp;



In a species group already known for visually striking performances, these fluorescent signals may offer an even finer scale of detail for courtship and territorial displays.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/bird-of-paradise_Paradisaea-guilielmi_Biofluorescence_plummage_credit-Rene-Martin_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/bird-of-paradise_Paradisaea-guilielmi_Biofluorescence_plummage_credit-Rene-Martin_1s.webp" alt="Biofluorescence is seen on the plumage of an emperor bird-of-paradise (Paradisaea guilielmi) in the American Museum of Natural History's collection. Credit: Rene Martin" class="wp-image-1963522"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Biofluorescence is seen on the plumage of an emperor bird-of-paradise (Paradisaea guilielmi) in the American Museum of Natural History's collection. Click to enlarge. Credit: Rene Martin</figcaption></figure>



When a male bird-of-paradise performs an intricate dance, the green-yellow glow from certain feathers might act like a hidden spotlight, contrasting sharply against the bird’s darker plumage. This could help catch a female’s attention or signal social status among competitors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-all-of-this-mean">What does all of this mean?</h2>



Although birds-of-paradise are among the best-studied avian groups for behavior and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-and-why-tropical-birds-are-so-strikingly-colorful-and-iridescent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coloration</a>, the discovery of broad-scale fluorescence suggests that birds may have more complex signaling systems than previously realized.&nbsp;



The presence of fluorescent patches in so many species raises the possibility that other bird lineages, especially those with striking plumage or elaborate displays, could also exhibit biofluorescence.



Moving forward, the researchers plan to investigate how environmental factors - like canopy cover, seasonal light availability, and even habitat degradation - might affect these glowing displays.&nbsp;



Understanding how birds-of-paradise perceive biofluorescence could also inform broader questions about the evolution of sexual selection and signaling in avian species.



Ultimately, this study reshapes scientists’ understanding of the “secret language of light” that these flamboyant birds use to communicate.&nbsp;



With improved imaging technologies and heightened awareness of avian fluorescence, researchers may soon discover that a hidden glow permeates many corners of the bird world, especially in those known for their spectacular visual allure.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsos.241905" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Society Open Science</a>.



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Some birds use biofluorescence to attract mates, glowing in colors that humans can't see

Animals love to show off with color, especially when it...

Marine ecosystems in the deep ocean show little sign of recovery even decades after experimental mining, according to new research that raises major concerns about the long-term impact of future seabed mining operations.



Published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-08921-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>, the study examined a deep-sea mining test site in the North Pacific that was first disturbed in 1979. Forty-four years later, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-ocean-day-a-unified-approach-to-protect-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> in that area remains lower than in nearby untouched regions.&nbsp;



The research team, which returned to the site in 2023 and 2024, worked in the Clarion–Clipperton Zone (CCZ), a vast abyssal plain about halfway between Hawaii and Mexico.&nbsp;



Situated 5,000 meters below the ocean surface, this deep seabed region holds rich reserves of polymetallic nodules - potato-sized mineral lumps containing metals like cobalt, nickel, and manganese, all crucial for clean energy technologies.



The study was led by scientists at the <a href="https://noc.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Oceanography Center</a> in Southampton and involved a consortium of British institutions, including the <a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Natural History Museum</a>, the <a href="https://www.bgs.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Geological Survey</a>, <a href="https://www.hw.ac.uk/">Heriot-Watt University</a>, and several universities.&nbsp;



Together, the experts form <a href="https://smartexccz.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SMARTEX</a> (Seabed Mining and Resilience to Experimental Impact), a project funded by the UK’s Natural Environment Research Council.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-recovery-from-deep-sea-mining-nbsp">Long recovery from deep-sea mining&nbsp;</h2>



The original mining test involved a mechanical seabed rake that stripped nodules from a 14-meter-wide path. Despite the small scale and brief duration of the experiment, the site still bears visible scars.&nbsp;



Areas stripped of nodules and track marks from the mining machine are clearly evident. The surrounding biological communities have yet to fully rebound.



“To tackle the crucial question of recovery from deep-sea mining, we need first to look to the past and use old mining tests to help understand long-term impacts,” said Professor Daniel Jones, the study’s lead author. 



“Forty four years later, the mining tracks themselves look very similar to when they were first made, with an 8-meter-wide strip of seabed cleared of nodules and two large furrows in the seafloor where the machine passed.”&nbsp;



“The numbers of many animals were reduced within the tracks but we did see some of the first signs of biological recovery.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-that-clings-to-nodules">Life that clings to nodules</h2>



The Clarion–Clipperton Zone covers over six million square kilometres - 25 times the size of the UK - and holds an estimated 21 billion tons of nodules. These nodules are essential to the deep-sea ecosystem, offering a rare hard surface for life to cling to in an otherwise sediment-heavy environment.&nbsp;



“These nodules are potato-sized mineral deposits that have built up in layers over thousands of years. Mining companies want to mine these for critical metals like cobalt and nickel,” said Mark Hartl, a marine ecotoxicologist from Heriot-Watt University and co-author of the study.



“But there are so many unanswered questions. For example, we know the nodules produce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oldest-known-galaxy-contains-surprising-oxygen-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxygen</a>. If they’re removed, will that reduce the amount of oxygen in the deep sea and affect the organisms that live there?”



“What is the effect of animal exposure to metal-containing sediment plumes churned up during the mining process? These are some of the questions we’re trying to answer.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biological-impacts-of-deep-sea-mining-nbsp">Biological impacts of deep-sea mining&nbsp;</h2>



Hartl’s work focused on the biological effects of sediment exposure. He developed new methods to evaluate whether <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sea-mining-forms-dust-clouds-that-devastate-marine-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mining</a> damages DNA in deep-sea fish. 



“This has never been done before,” said Hartl. “So we had no baseline data to compare any effects of mining against. We are currently optimising tests for other signs of stress applicable to the deep sea.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recovery-may-be-measured-in-centuries">Recovery may be measured in centuries</h2>



The deep sea’s slow pace of life is one reason recovery is so limited. Many organisms grow slowly, reproduce infrequently, or are adapted to highly specific habitats.&nbsp;



“General ecological theory will predict that following disturbance, any ecosystem will go through a series of successional stages of recolonization and growth," said Adrian Glover of the Natural History Museum.



"However, until this study, we had no idea of the timescales of this critical process in the deep-sea mining regions, or how different parts of the community respond in different ways.” 



“Our results don’t provide an answer to whether deep-sea mining is societally acceptable, but they do provide the data needed to make better informed policy decisions such as the creation and refinement of protected regions and how we would monitor future impacts,” Glover added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-question-of-future-trade-offs">A question of future trade-offs</h2>



The <a href="https://www.isa.org.jm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Seabed Authority</a> (ISA), the organization responsible for managing mineral-related activity in international waters, currently maintains a moratorium on commercial deep-sea mining. It is still developing a legal and environmental framework to guide future exploitation, and the SMARTEX research may influence how those guidelines take shape.



In their paper, the scientists note that mining operations are expected to cause “immediate impacts” to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seafloor-relic-uncovers-earths-ancient-mysteries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seafloor</a> habitats. Collector vehicles will remove nodules, compact sediments, and stir up sediment plumes that may travel beyond mining sites. These plumes, they argue, could have “significant impacts on ecosystems” well outside the directly affected zones.



While proponents of deep-sea mining argue that it could provide critical materials for a net-zero future, the study underscores that such gains may come at a long-term ecological cost. The scars of the past, still visible and measurable after 44 years, may well be a preview of the risks ahead.



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Deep-sea mining impacts marine life for decades

Marine ecosystems in the deep ocean show little sign of...

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