Wandering salamanders, also known as "skydiving salamanders," have fascinated scientists for years with their ability to jump and glide effortlessly through the towering canopies of coastal redwood forests. 



Despite their small size, these amphibians navigate high-altitude branches with precision, sticking their landings and taking off with ease. 



Until recently, the mechanics behind their remarkable acrobatic movement remained a mystery. Now, a new study reveals a surprising answer: blood-powered toes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salamanders-that-control-blood-flow">Salamanders that control blood flow</h2>



Researchers at Washington State University discovered that wandering salamanders (Aneides vagrans) can rapidly control the blood flow in their toe tips.



This ability allows them to grip, detach, and move through their arboreal environment with remarkable efficiency. 



The study not only sheds light on an unknown aspect of salamander physiology but also has potential implications for technological advances in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/octopus-suckers-the-future-of-underwater-adhesives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adhesives</a>, prosthetics, and robotic limbs.



The research team found that salamanders can fill, trap, and drain blood within their toe tips. 



This process helps them fine-tune their attachment and detachment from surfaces, providing the grip necessary for climbing and the release required for efficient movement.



The discovery challenges previous assumptions about the function of the visible red “lakes” of blood in their translucent toes. These structures were long thought to aid in oxygenation, but no scientific evidence supported that claim.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advantages-of-the-control">Advantages of the control</h2>



The study suggests that controlling blood flow in the toes allows <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-salamander-like-beast-gaiasia-jennyae-top-predator-before-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salamanders</a> to adjust pressure asymmetrically.



 This fine-tuned control helps them navigate the irregular surfaces of tree bark. Surprisingly, the blood influx before “toe-off” does not aid in attachment but rather helps the salamanders detach. 



By slightly inflating their toe tips, they reduce the surface area in contact with the bark, minimizing the energy required to let go. This efficiency is crucial when gliding between branches and ensuring safe landings.



“Gecko-inspired adhesives already allow surfaces to be reused without losing stickiness,” said Christian Brown, lead author of the study, and a postdoctoral researcher in integrative physiology and neuroscience at <a href="https://wsu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Washington State University</a>.



“Understanding salamander toes could lead to similar breakthroughs in attachment technologies.” 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-documentary-shoot">A documentary shoot</h2>



The origins of this study trace back to an unexpected moment during the filming of the documentary The Americas, which will air on February 23, 2025 on NBC and Peacock.



Brown was assisting on set as a salamander expert when he noticed something unusual through the production team’s high-powered camera lenses.



Just before a wandering salamander took a step, blood appeared to rush into its toe tips. Brown and camera assistant William Goldenberg observed this phenomenon multiple times. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/salamandar-wandering_Aneides-vagrans_hindfoot_suction_blood-flow_credit-WSU_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/salamandar-wandering_Aneides-vagrans_hindfoot_suction_blood-flow_credit-WSU_1s.webp" alt="The hindfoot of a live wandering salamander (Aneides vagrans). In the background, blood can be seen filling a toe tip. Photo: William P. Goldenberg/WSU" class="wp-image-1958372"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The hindfoot of a live wandering salamander (Aneides vagrans). In the background, blood can be seen filling a toe tip. Photo: William P. Goldenberg/WSU</figcaption></figure>



The repeated occurrence caught their attention. “We looked at each other like, ‘Did you see that?’” Brown related.



Although the documentary team moved on to other subjects, Brown’s curiosity lingered. After filming wrapped, he reached out to Goldenberg and proposed an experiment. 



Using high-resolution film equipment, they would investigate whether salamanders consistently displayed this blood-powered toe mechanism under controlled conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salamanders-regulating-their-blood-flow">Salamanders regulating their blood flow </h2>



The research team conducted detailed video trials and microscopic analysis at Washington State University’s <a href="https://fmic.wsu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Franceschi Microscopy &amp; Imaging Center</a>. 



Their findings confirmed that wandering salamanders regulate blood flow to each individual toe tip, which allows them to modify grip strength as needed.



This discovery provides insight into how salamanders navigate the complex terrain of the redwood canopy. The ability to release their grip efficiently is particularly significant. 



“If you’re climbing a redwood and have 18 toes gripping bark, being able to detach efficiently without damaging your toe tips makes a huge difference,” Brown said. 



The research suggests that this mechanism plays a crucial role in the salamanders’ ability to thrive in the towering heights of their natural habitat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-beyond-one-species">Implications beyond one species</h2>



While this study focused on&nbsp;Aneides vagrans, the findings could have broader implications. Other salamander species, including aquatic ones, also have vascularized toe structures. 



These structures may serve different purposes depending on the environment, from regulating grip on wet surfaces to enhancing movement across diverse landscapes.



The discovery could also inspire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-is-pushing-the-u-s-toward-an-unpredictable-transformation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">innovations</a> beyond biology. Scientists studying bioinspired design are particularly interested in nature’s solutions to movement and adhesion problems.



By understanding how salamanders control their grip with blood-powered toe tips, researchers may be able to develop new adhesives and prosthetics that mimic this ability.



Brown and his colleagues plan to expand their research to investigate how similar mechanisms function in other salamander species. 



“This could redefine our understanding of how salamanders move across diverse habitats,” Brown said. The findings could help explain how different species adapt to their environments and refine our knowledge of biomechanics in amphibians.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-salamander-movement">New perspective on salamander movement</h2>



The discovery of blood-powered toes in wandering salamanders challenges previous assumptions about their movement and grip strength. 



As scientists continue to study these remarkable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frogs-and-toads-face-new-risks-as-their-habitats-dry-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amphibians</a>, they may uncover even more secrets hidden within their physiology. 



For now, the ability of wandering salamanders to control their grip with precision remains an intriguing discovery in animal biomechanics.



The study is published in the <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jmor.70026" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Morphology</a>. 



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'Skydiving' salamanders can fully control blood flow in their toes

Wandering salamanders, also known as "skydiving salamanders," have fascinated scientists for years with their ability to jump and glide effortlessly through the towering canopies of coastal redwood forests. Despite their small size, these amphibians navigate high-altitude branches with precision, sticking their landings and taking off with ease. Until recently, the mechanics behind their remarkable acrobatic movement remained a mystery. Now, a new study reveals a surprising answer: blood-powered toes. Salamanders that control blood flow Researchers at Washington State University discovered that wandering salamanders (Aneides vagrans) can rapidly control...

A recent study suggests that dogs could be the key to unlocking an unexpected boon for children’s mental and emotional health.



The secret lies in a hormone called oxytocin. You may know it as the "love hormone," but its job description extends further than just fluttering hearts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mood-boosting-hormone">Mood-boosting hormone</h2>



Oxytocin, produced in the brain's hypothalamus and released into our bloodstream, is a mood booster. It reduces stress, makes us feel more sociable, and helps us express our emotions healthily.



Now, picture this: children's bodies flooding with this feel-good hormone following playful romps with none other than man’s best friend. 



Scientists have observed higher concentrations of oxytocin in children following <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-and-human-brains-sync-up-during-eye-contact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">engagements with dogs</a>, as compared to when kids played alone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oxytocin-levels-in-dogs-and-children">Oxytocin levels in dogs and children</h2>



Dr. Gitanjali E. Gnanadesikan, a postdoctoral fellow at the <a href="https://www.arizona.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arizona</a>'s School of Anthropology, led this intriguing investigation.



The research was focused on 55 children aged between 8 and 10 years at the Arizona Canine Cognition Center. Over a series of visits, the young participants played with their pet dogs, an unfamiliar dog, and also had a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/interacting-with-dogs-can-ease-physical-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solo play session</a>.



Throughout these engagements, the research team measured oxytocin levels in both the children and the dogs. The results? 



"To our knowledge, this study provides the first evidence for an effect of affiliative social interactions with dogs on oxytocin concentrations in children," said Dr. Gnanadesikan. Both familiar and unfamiliar dog interactions led to an oxytocin boost in children.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-benefit-from-children-as-well">Dogs benefit from children as well</h2>



What's more interesting is that it didn't matter whether the dog was a family pet or a stranger to the child, the oxytocin increase was noted in both cases. 



However, it’s worth mentioning that the pet dogs also exhibited a surge in their salivary oxytocin levels, but this wasn’t seen in unfamiliar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-learn-better-with-praise-and-petting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a>. 



This hints at the possibility that our canine friends may also reap the emotional benefits of these interactions, given that the child is a familiar companion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-better-communication-skills">Building better communication skills</h2>



Beyond the biochemical exchanges that occur, the symbiotic relationship between dogs and children also plays a crucial role in the social dimension of childhood development. 



Interactions with dogs often lead to enhanced communication skills, as children learn to interpret their pet's body language, expressions, and needs. 



This non-verbal communication can then translate into more effective interpersonal skills when interacting with peers and adults. 



Additionally, dogs can serve as a bridge to social interaction, often drawing children into conversations with other pet owners or enthusiasts, thereby expanding their social circles and fortifying their confidence in expressing themselves.



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



The implications of these findings extend beyond individual well-being and social skills, potentially influencing educational and therapeutic settings. 



Schools and therapy programs are increasingly incorporating animal-assisted interventions to support emotional regulation, decrease anxiety, and motivate learning for children who face challenges such as autism or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toddler-screen-time-linked-to-atypical-sensory-behaviors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ADHD</a>. 



The presence of a friendly dog can create a calming atmosphere, encouraging focus and reducing stress in academic settings. 



As evidence of the benefits continues to mount, educators and healthcare professionals might advocate for more widespread integration of animals in pedagogical and therapeutic practices. 



This could pave the way for children to thrive both academically and emotionally through playful and nurturing relationships with dogs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adult-supervision-is-needed">Adult supervision is needed</h2>



There is a catch, though. It is crucial to monitor these canine-kid interactions to ensure a fun and safe playtime.



Remember, not all dog breeds may be suited for play with children, and not all children may understand the nuances of interacting with dogs. 



A watchful adult eye is necessary, especially when it comes to infants and toddlers who are more vulnerable. "Children and dogs should not be left alone together without adult supervision," noted Blue Cross.



Ultimately, though, the science speaks for itself. Our loveable, loyal, four-legged companions could be key to enhancing our children’s emotional well-being, providing us with yet another reason to cherish our cuddly pals even more.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0306453024001926" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Psycho-neuroendocrinology</a>.



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Children get a rush of the 'love hormone' by playing with dogs

A recent study suggests that dogs could be the key...

It's a fact as solid as gravity. Lose a limb or sustain damage to the spinal cord, and our human bodies can't self-repair. However, some members of the animal kingdom, like the African killifish, boast an extraordinary capacity to regenerate after injury.



Sequencing a precise chain of cellular events, they can restore missing body parts in a way our species can only marvel at. 



Recently, researchers at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research have made strides in understanding one aspect of this regeneration process - the timing of cellular response to injury in killifish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-killifish-tail-regeneration">Killifish tail regeneration </h2>



The study was led by Dr. Augusto Ortega Granillo, in collaboration with Dr. Alejandro Sánchez Alvarado, President and Chief Scientific Officer at <a href="https://www.stowers.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stowers</a>.



The team investigated how the African killifish can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-zebrafish-heart-regeneration-could-transform-human-cardiac-care/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regrow</a> its tail fin after an injury, focusing on what influences the duration and frequency of cellular engagement in the repair process.



“One of the greatest unsolved mysteries of regeneration is how an organism knows what has been lost after injury,” noted Dr. Sánchez Alvarado.



“Essentially, the study points to a new variable in the equation of regeneration. If we can modulate the rate and the length of time that a tissue can launch a regenerative response, this could help us devise therapies that may activate and perhaps prolong the regenerative response of tissues that normally would not do so.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-repair-response-after-injury">Repair response after injury</h2>



What happens when the tail of a killifish gets injured? The remaining tissue has to gauge the extent of the damage. 



Then, the right number of repair cells must be mobilized to the injury site for the appropriate duration of time. This entire process rests on the coordination of damage sensing, repair cell recruitment, and timing.



The team studied different injury locations in the killifish tail fin. They discovered that skin cells – not just at the injury site, but also at distant, uninjured regions – initiated a genetic program to prepare the entire organism for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/axolotls-regeneration-powers-critically-endangered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">repair response</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-extracellular-matrix">The extracellular matrix</h2>



These skin cells then sustained this response, temporarily altering their state to modify the surrounding material, also known as the extracellular matrix.



“We very clearly defined when and where - at 24 hours post-injury and in the extracellular matrix - the transient cell state is acting in the fin tissue," explained Dr. Ortega Granillo.



"Knowing when and where to look allowed us to make genetic disruptions and gain a better understanding of the function of these cell states during regeneration."



To comprehend how the unique cellular states convey information to the extracellular matrix during the repair process, the team turned to the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technique. 



Profiling a gene known to modify the extracellular matrix, the experts found that disrupting the function of this gene led to a deficient speed in tissue growth.



“This is telling us that by changing the extracellular space, skin cells inform the tissue how much was lost and how fast it should grow,” said Dr. Ortega Granillo.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-aspects-of-killifish-regeneration">Evolutionary aspects of killifish regeneration </h2>



The team demonstrated that controlling the state of the cells that modify the extracellular matrix could potentially amplify regenerative regrowth. This could lead to more robust regeneration responses, opening up exciting possibilities for regenerative medicine.



“Our goal is to understand how to shape and grow tissues. For people who sustain injuries or organ failure, regenerative therapies could restore function that was compromised during illness or following injury,” noted Dr. Ortega Granillo.



However, the matter isn't closed. Understanding why certain organisms are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crown-of-thorns-starfish-gene-expression-may-help-protect-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prodigious regenerators</a>, while others like humans have limited regenerative abilities, is still a driving force in the field of regenerative biology. 



By dissecting the principles observed in organisms with high regenerative capacity, researchers aim to apply these insights to enhance regeneration in humans. This could not only unveil the evolutionary aspects of regeneration but also instigate the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regenerative-medicine-in-humans">Regenerative medicine in humans </h2>



The findings hint at the tantalizing possibility of deploying regenerative medicine in humans, bringing us one step closer to bridging the gap. 



The African killifish, in its seemingly mundane existence, unlocks a world of potential therapeutic strategies that could one day revolutionize the way humans heal.



Until then, the scientific community remains relentlessly committed to exploring the enigma of regeneration, inching closer to answers one experiment at a time.



The research was supported by the Stowers Institute for Medical Research and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (<a href="https://www.hhmi.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HHMI</a>).



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/iscience/fulltext/S2589-0042(24)01962-X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iScience</a>.



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Secrets of killifish regeneration may help us heal humans

It's a fact as solid as gravity. Lose a limb...

A recent study reveals a startling development for two endangered primate species in Bangladesh. Phayre's langurs and capped langurs might be headed for an unexpected twist in their evolutionary tale - hybridization.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-langur-hybridization-in-bangladesh">Langur hybridization in Bangladesh</h2>



A research team led by Tanvir Ahmed, a PhD student at the <a href="https://www.dpz.eu/en/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">German Primate Center</a>, took on the monumental task of studying langur populations in northeastern Bangladesh.



Over a five-year period, from 2018 to 2023, the researchers chipped away at the mysteries hidden within these populations.



Out of the 98 langur groups studied, the experts discovered that 8 were mixed groups that consisted of both Phayre's and capped langurs.



In three of these mixed groups, some individuals presented as unique blends of the two species. But what did this mean, and does it hold any significant implications?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-evidence-from-hybrid-langurs">Genetic evidence from hybrid langurs</h2>



When faced with an intriguing puzzle, every scientist knows that the key to deciphering it lies within the data's fine details. 



Once the team collected genetic samples from these hybrid individuals, they were transported to the lab at the German Primate Center for analysis. 



The tests confirmed that there had been an instance of hybridization. In this case, the hybrid langur was born to a capped langur mother and a Phayre's langur father. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ripple-effect-of-langur-hybridization">Ripple effect of langur hybridization</h2>



Hybridization among <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-primates-struggle-more-with-extreme-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a> - the blending of two different species - is a rare phenomenon in itself. Typically, it only occurs where two related species find their territories overlapping. 



Unnatural activities such as deforestation, trapping, and hunting can lead to population thinning. This restricts the movement of individuals, and thus, can unintentionally spur such hybridization. 



"The existence of fertile hybrids is particularly alarming because it suggests that gene flow between these two endangered species could irreversibly affect their future genetic composition," said Tanvir Ahmed, lead author of the study. 



"This is not just a local problem. When habitats are destroyed, animals mix unnaturally and form mixed groups and hybridization might occur. This can even mean the extinction of one or both species," noted study co-author and lead scientist Christian Roos.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forest-conservation-an-urgent-priority">Forest conservation: An urgent priority</h2>



The study also revealed that forests which are better protected host bigger langur populations.



However, the situation is never as simple as it seems. Even these protected forests are often too small and fragmented to guarantee the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/primate-bonds-are-not-just-about-love-theyre-strategic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survival of the species</a>. 



Ahmed emphasized that forest conservation should become a national priority. Otherwise, we risk losing these langurs and a significant chunk of Bangladesh's biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-langur-hybridization">Impact of langur hybridization</h2>



Ongoing research efforts are needed to understand the full impact of hybridization on the endangered langurs.



"This study is a wake-up call. We need more data to develop effective long-term conservation strategies," said Dietmar Zinner, a co-author of the study. 



The survival of the less than 500 Phayre's langurs and 600 capped langurs in northeast Bangladesh hangs in the balance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-for-endangered-langurs">Conservation for endangered langurs</h2>



Protection is urgently needed to keep Phayre's and capped langurs from disappearing forever. The focus should be on preserving and restoring their natural habitats, making sure these amazing primates have enough resources and space to thrive. 



This means tackling issues like deforestation and illegal hunting that harm their homes and split up their populations.



Working with local communities is crucial; education and awareness can help create a strong culture of conservation and sustainable living. In addition, better laws and enforcement are needed to guard against habitat destruction, ensuring a safer future for these vulnerable species.



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



The findings from Bangladesh transcend national boundaries, emphasizing the need for a concerted international effort in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/primates-who-are-facially-expressive-make-the-best-leaders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primate conservation</a>. 



Establishing global partnerships, particularly with organizations specializing in primate research and conservation, can share crucial resources, expertise, and funding. 



This collaborative approach enables monitoring and research initiatives to embrace a more comprehensive understanding of langur populations, hybridization and their ecosystems. 



Equipped with his discoveries, Ahmed is now focusing his doctoral project on a comprehensive genetic study of endangered langur populations. He aims to explore their vulnerability to climate change, a vital step in forming an effective action plan.



The study is published in the <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10764-024-00459-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Journal of Primatology.</a> 



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Forest loss is forcing endangered primates to interbreed

A recent study reveals a startling development for two endangered...

Drones are transforming our understanding of biodiversity by exploring the treetops of rainforests, where much life has remained hidden. 



These high, dense canopies are home to countless organisms, yet they have been difficult to study due to their inaccessibility. 



For years, researchers have known that the branches and leaves are teeming with life, but uncovering it has posed a significant challenge.



Now, drones equipped with innovative technology offer a non-invasive way to collect environmental DNA (eDNA) from the treetops, providing crucial insights into the species that live there. 



This breakthrough marks a pivotal moment in rainforest research, allowing scientists to decode the biodiversity of these towering ecosystems without disturbing them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eavesdroppers-at-high-elevations">Eavesdroppers at high elevations</h2>



In the past, these tiny organisms were virtually invisible to the human eye, their existence revealed only through the minute traces they left behind - DNA on the leaves and branches of the rainforest.



Today, however, a team of pioneers has unlocked a groundbreaking approach to uncovering this life. The experts have developed a unique adaptation to familiar technology: a drone equipped with a specialized fabric probe.



The drone soars above the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazon-animals-will-suffer-as-the-rainforest-turns-into-savanna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainforest</a>, gently brushing leaves and branches to collect DNA, revealing uncharted life in the canopy.



"If we want people to protect nature, we need to tell them what we are actually protecting - with our solution, we hope to better understand the life in the canopy," explained study lead author Steffen Kirchgeorg.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-research-and-drone-technology">Biodiversity research and drone technology</h2>



The introduction of drone-based DNA collection is not just a technological breakthrough - it is reshaping the way scientists conduct <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-biggest-drivers-of-biodiversity-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> research.



Traditionally, studying life in the rainforest canopies required invasive and labor-intensive methods, such as physically climbing trees or setting up elaborate sampling systems. 



With drones, this process becomes more efficient and less disruptive, allowing for repeated sampling over vast areas in a fraction of the time. This innovation opens up new possibilities for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/effective-conservation-efforts-key-to-saving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation efforts</a>. 



By gathering more comprehensive data on species diversity in these remote <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/koalas-face-critical-threats-from-disease-and-habitat-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitats</a>, researchers can better understand how ecosystems function and respond to environmental changes. The technology also helps identify species that may be at risk, guiding targeted conservation actions before it's too late.



Drones also allow for global collaboration, with scientists worldwide able to adopt this technology to explore previously inaccessible ecosystems, creating a unified strategy for biodiversity preservation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-drone-process-works">How the drone process works</h2>



The researchers designed a highly specialized drone system to collect eDNA without disturbing the environment. 



The process begins with the drone flying high above the canopy, remotely guided to position itself over the targeted tree branches. Once in place, the drone lowers a fleece-like fabric probe via a pulley system. 



The probe, reinforced with strips of fiberglass for added structure, brushes gently against the branches and leaves. This allows it to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-can-now-collect-human-dna-from-water-air-and-basically-everywhere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">collect DNA</a> left behind by organisms in the form of mucus, feces, or dead skin cells.



To ensure smooth operation, the drone is equipped with a sensor that detects any impact with branches. If the probe gets too close to obstacles, the drone adjusts its position to avoid entanglement. 



After the collection is complete, the probe is retrieved by the drone and brought back to the research team for analysis. 



In a successful field test conducted in a Southeast Asian rainforest, the collected samples revealed a variety of species, including spiders, ants, long-tailed macaques, and a species of fly known as the gall midge.



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



This pioneering study not only demonstrates the remarkable potential of drones in biodiversity research but also highlights the critical importance of understanding these remote and often overlooked ecosystems.



The ability to gather crucial data with minimal disturbance ensures that these fragile environments can be better protected, preserved, and restored for future generations.



As conservationists and researchers continue to explore innovative ways of monitoring and safeguarding biodiversity, drone technology will undoubtedly play a central and transformative role in unlocking the hidden secrets of the natural world, starting with the uncharted life thriving in the rainforest canopies.



The research is published in the ACS journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/journal/esthag" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Science &amp; Technology</a>.



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Drones reveal hidden biodiversity in rainforest canopies

Drones are transforming our understanding of biodiversity by exploring the...

You may wonder, how climate factors such as temperature, rainfall, snow, and extreme weather events impact wildlife. More specifically, how do our friendly forest rovers, the deer, respond to changes in climate?



Scientists recently conducted a comprehensive study based on 20 years of research on 10 main deer species in boreal and temperate regions: moose, roe deer, wapiti, red deer, sika deer, fallow deer, white-tailed deer, mule deer, caribou, and reindeer.



The team analyzed a whopping 218 articles to draw conclusions on the effects of climate change on the behavior, physiology, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pronghorn-lessons-conservation-crucial-preventing-species-extinctions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">population dynamics of these creatures</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-impacts-on-deer">Climate change impacts on deer</h2>



The climate, as it turns out, plays a dual role in the lives of deer. While warmer temperatures seem to be beneficial in some ways, they can also tip the scales the other way. 



Reduced energy usage and improved food availability during milder winters, initially seem like a great deal for many deer populations. But the catch lies in those species thriving in colder climates like the reindeer or caribou.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-climate-change-on-deer">Consequences of climate change on deer</h2>



Winter temperature variations cause the snow to melt and refreeze, locking food sources under a sheet of ice. Such conditions make it impossible to access lichens, which deer typically feed on. 



Likewise, hotter and drier summers might push deer populations’ physiological tolerances to the edge due to heat stress and parasites.



The immediate consequence is a deterioration of the animals’ physical condition. It might also trigger a long-term shift in their distribution, with some species like the moose moving further north. 



In comparison to deer species who cope with these issues by seeking cooler habitats and decreasing their daily activities during peak heat hours, moose are considerably more heat sensitive. This results in smaller body mass and ultimately leading to decreased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ungulate-migration-new-maps-united-states-protection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">population growth</a> in future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-to-climate-change">Adapting to climate change</h2>



Deer exhibit remarkable adaptability, altering their behavior to mitigate the impacts of changing climates. 



In response to fluctuating temperatures, certain species like white-tailed deer adjust their foraging patterns, seeking food sources that provide both nutritional value and a measure of environmental comfort. 



During periods of excessive heat, deer are known to restrict their activity to dawn and dusk, thereby minimizing exposure to the harsh midday sun. 



Additionally, migratory patterns may undergo transformation, with deer traversing greater distances in search of suitable habitats that offer more temperate conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-implications-for-deer">Evolutionary implications for deer</h2>



As climate change continues to accelerate, the evolutionary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/white-tailed-deer-migrating-north-caribou-country-warming-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">implications for deer populations</a> are profound and far-reaching. 



Genetic diversity plays a critical role in shaping how well these species can adapt over time. Populations with higher genetic variation are more likely to develop beneficial traits that enhance survival in changing environments. 



For instance, we might witness a natural selection process favoring deer that are better equipped to cope with heat stress or those that can efficiently exploit new, emerging food sources. 



This evolutionary dynamic highlights the challenges posed by climate change, as well as the incredible resilience and potential for adaptation inherent within wildlife species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-migration-patterns">Changing migration patterns</h2>



Climate change also contributes to altering migration patterns of deer. Spring and autumn temperature hikes reduce snow coverage and depth, inducing deer to migrate earlier in spring and later in autumn.



If this trend continues, species like the caribou and red deer could possibly elimination migration altogether.



Furthermore, the study has identified several avenues for future research, focusing mainly on the potential impact of extreme weather events, snow type, and wetter autumns on deer.



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



The findings from National Research Institute for Agriculture,&nbsp;Food and Environment (<a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INRAE</a>) could prove invaluable for wildlife, forest, and park managers to comprehend how deer populations might react to future climate conditions and adapt their population management strategies accordingly to protect these animals.



The interaction between climate change and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-activity-has-a-strong-effect-on-wildlife-in-remote-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a> is complex and intricate, and understanding it requires patience and dedicated research.



"Climate change causes far-reaching disruption in nature, where tolerance thresholds already have been exceeded for some plants and animals," noted the researchers.



"In the short term, deer may respond to climate through individual physiological and behavioral responses. Over time, individual responses can aggregate to the population level and ultimately lead to evolutionary adaptations."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcb.17505" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>.



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How does climate change affect deer? It's complicated

You may wonder, how climate factors such as temperature, rainfall,...

An international research team has explored the profound genetic impact of hunting on northern elephant seals. The experts found genetic scars in the animals, which were once hunted to near extinction.



The findings of the study, published in the journal Nature Ecology and Evolution, reveal that these genetic effects have persisted for many decades after the seals barely escaped extinction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elephant-seals-on-brink-of-extinction">Elephant seals on brink of extinction</h2>



At the turn of the 20th century, northern elephant seals were nearly wiped out by hunting, with their numbers dwindling perilously.



The experts noted that extensive hunting by commercial sealers between 1810 and 1860 largely eliminated the northern elephant seal from most of its geographical range, and it was considered extinct by the 1890s.



"Genetic analyses suggest that the population was likely reduced to fewer than 25 animals at that time," explained Dr Joseph Hoffman, lead author of the study and head of the Evolutionary Population Genetics group at <a href="https://www.uni-bielefeld.de/(en)/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bielefeld University</a>.



Such dire population declines can strip a species of its genetic diversity, amplifying the risk of inbreeding and jeopardizing survival. A bright ray of hope in this grim tale, however, is the recovery of the northern elephant seals. 



Despite the odds, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elephant-seals-use-sonar-signals-to-dine-deep-underwater/">population</a> has bounced back to around 225,000 individuals by 2010. How did this near-extinction event impact their genetic diversity and health? The study offers fascinating revelations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-extinction-survival-cost-for-seals">Beyond extinction: Survival cost for seals</h2>



The team used a sophisticated approach for the investigation, fusing genetic data, health records, population size modeling, and genetic simulations.



According to the findings, the intense population decline led to both useful and harmful genes being wiped out from the northern elephant seal's gene pool. These effects were not witnessed in their southern elephant seal counterparts who avoided such a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/safeguarding-antarctica-from-human-activity-crucial-sites-identified/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dramatic decline</a>.



"The highly reduced genetic diversity, including the loss of beneficial gene copies, may impair the ability of northern elephant seals to cope with future environmental changes, including those caused by anthropogenic climate change, changes to the species’ habitat, or even natural threats such as disease outbreaks," said study senior author Dr. Kanchon K. Dasmahapatra.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harmful-mutations-from-population-decline">Harmful mutations from population decline</h2>



Every species carries some harmful mutations, hidden away, but inbred individuals might unveil these health threats. 



The team scrutinized key health traits, like body weight, blubber thickness, and disease susceptibility. 



"To our surprise, we found no signs of health problems related to inbreeding. We believe the severe population decline may have eliminated many harmful mutations," said Dr. Hoffman.



"Our study illustrates how a species' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ontocetus-posti-extinct-walrus-like-mammal-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unique population history</a> shapes its genetic diversity," noted Dr. Dasmahapatra. 



"Each species responds differently to threats, so individualized approaches are essential," said Dr. Hoffman.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-seals-from-extinction">Saving seals from extinction</h2>



The findings from this study have far-reaching implications in the field of conservation genetics. The northern elephant seal serves as a pivotal case study on the genetic consequences of population bottlenecks. 



By understanding the effects of reduced genetic diversity, conservationists can derive insights into how other species might fare under similar threats. 



"Understanding the genetic and fitness consequences of anthropogenic bottlenecks is crucial for biodiversity conservation. However, studies of bottlenecked populations combining genomic approaches with fitness data are rare," noted the researchers.



This knowledge is essential in formulating strategies that not only aim to preserve existing genetic diversity but also foster resilience in the face of future challenges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-science-and-policy">Bridging science and policy</h2>



In light of the study's revelations, there is an urgent need to bridge the gap between scientific research and policy-making. Effective conservation strategies require a symbiosis between empirical evidence and regulatory frameworks. 



Policymakers must account for genetic factors when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-flu-is-killing-thousands-of-seals-and-sea-lions-globally/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">devising conservation policies</a>, ensuring that the efforts to restore or protect species are both scientifically grounded and pragmatically feasible. 



This integration of science and policy could pave the way for innovative, adaptive management practices that strengthen the resilience of biologically diverse ecosystems, safeguarding them for future generations.



"The northern elephant seal provides a compelling opportunity to investigate the complex interplay between population declines, genetic load dynamics, and fitness," wrote the study authors. 



"The northern elephant seal is a classic example of a wild vertebrate that is believed to have purged at least part of its genetic load as a result of a severe bottleneck."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-024-02533-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</a>.



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Elephant seals have genetic scars from intense hunting

An international research team has explored the profound genetic impact...

The world we live in is changing. And those changes aren't just affecting us humans - they're impacting the wildlife we share our planet with, too. One such creature, the famously unhurried sloth, is finding itself pinned against a wall of survival - a race against the clock of climate change it can't outrun.



In a recent study titled "Sloth Metabolism May Make Survival Untenable Under Climate Change Scenarios," researchers expose a challenging future for these slow-moving creatures of Central and South America. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sloths-and-their-environment">Sloths and their environment</h2>



Before we dive into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-ozone-day-2024-advancing-climate-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dire situation</a> these animals face, let's get up close and personal with our subject matter - the two-fingered sloths (Choloepus hoffmanni). 



It's worth noting that these creatures are built for life in both highland and lowland regions. But it's how they react to the changes in their environments that has scientists concerned.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sloths-under-climate-change">Sloths under climate change</h2>



The study, led by Dr. Rebecca Cliffe from the Sloth Metabolism Research Institute (SMRI), focused on the metabolic response of sloths to rising temperatures.



"Sloths are inherently limited by their slow metabolism and unique inability to regulate body temperature effectively, unlike most mammals," said Dr. Cliffe. "Our research shows that sloths, particularly in high-altitude regions, may not be able to survive the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-is-likely-the-hottest-year-in-recorded-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">significant increases in temperature</a> forecast for 2100.”



The researchers measured oxygen consumption and core body temperature of sloths under conditions emulating projected climate changes. What they found paints a worrying picture.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feeling-the-heat">Feeling the heat</h2>



Highland sloths experience a dramatic hike in their resting metabolic rate (RMR) as temperatures increase. 



Lowland sloths, though better adapted to heat, initiate a metabolic depression - a kind of low-power mode - when temperatures move past their comfort zone. Scientists call this the "thermally-active zone" (TAZ).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-difficulty-adjusting-to-climate-change">Difficulty adjusting to climate change </h2>



Fast forward to the year 2100, where the forecast predicts <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-are-relocating-in-a-race-against-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature increases</a> between 2°C and 6°C in sloth habitats. 



Highland sloths are set to bear a hefty metabolic burden. Their limited energy-processing capacity, combined with a lack of geographical flexibility, might stop them from adjusting to this heated climate. 



And here's another hiccup: sloths digest food up to 24 times slower than other similar-sized herbivores. So, any rise in metabolic need due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainfall-is-increasingly-unpredictable-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> can't easily be offset by increased food intake, making it tough for them to balance energy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-for-highland-sloths">Challenges for highland sloths</h2>



The most eye-opening part of this research concerns high-altitude sloths. Their restricted ability to migrate to cooler zones and limited metabolic flexibility could push these populations toward extinction if temperatures keep climbing.



Lowland sloths might manage to scratch out a survival strategy by moving to higher altitudes, but for highland sloths, this option doesn't exist. 



This biological rigidity, paired with the increased metabolic demand in hotter climates, could tip these populations into a survival crisis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-policy-and-international-cooperation">Policy and international cooperation</h2>



While local and regional efforts are indispensable, sloths' survival will greatly depend on broader policy initiatives and international cooperation. 



Global agreements that aim to reduce carbon emissions and slow down global warming are foundational to maintaining the environments that sloths and other wildlife depend on. 



Programs like the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) play a pivotal role in establishing global climate policies that can benefit sloths indirectly by fostering a healthier planet. 



Moreover, collaboration between countries that host sloth populations and those that can offer expertise or funding for conservation initiatives is essential. 



Together, these efforts can form a comprehensive strategy that addresses both the local challenges and the global threats to sloths, ensuring that their slow-paced lives can continue unhindered in their natural habitats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgency-of-conservation-efforts">Urgency of conservation efforts</h2>



So, what does all this mean for the future of our slow-moving friends? Conservation efforts need to be cranked up to protect sloth populations. This is especially crucial for those in high-altitude regions from the impacts of climate change.



The researchers emphasise the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sloths-may-hold-a-secret-weapon-against-antibiotic-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">need for more investigation</a> into adaptive strategies and conservation policies. The hope is to find ways to soften the blow sloths face in our rapidly warming world. 



Whether we're talking about biodiversity, ecosystem stability, or even just the intrinsic value of life, everyone stands to lose if we allow these creatures to disappear.



We've got the facts. We've got the figures. Now, the question is - how do we turn this story around? How can we give sloths a fighting chance in the race against climate change?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://peerj.com/articles/18168/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PeerJ</a>.



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Sloths are struggling to survive climate change

The world we live in is changing. And those changes...

An evolutionary quirk exists in today's world, but it lives in the ocean, so most of us will never actually be able to see it with our own eyes. But that doesn't make it any less incredible! Sea robins are a species of fish that took to walking on the ocean floor instead of just swimming around like its relatives -- and ended up growing legs to do so.



Sea robins and their walking legs exhibit an evolutionary anomaly that has transformed it from being a usual swimmer to an outstanding walker.



This creature has sprouted legs similar to those of a crab, and remarkably, uses them not just for walking but for finding buried prey by "tasting" the ocean floor -- a fascinating trait not seen in their swimming relatives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-legs-of-the-sea-robins">Legs of the sea robins</h2>



“This is a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bizarre-fish-can-walk-and-thrive-on-land/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish that grew legs</a> using the same genes that contribute to the development of our limbs and then repurposed these legs to find prey using the same genes our tongues use to taste food -- pretty wild,” says Nicholas Bellono of <a href="https://www.harvard.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard University</a> in Cambridge, MA.



Intrigued by the sea robins' unusual hunting prowess, they went ahead and further studied them. 



They found out that the sea robins could indeed detect and uncover ground-up and filtered mussel extract, and even single amino acids.



This oddity had observant fellow fish hitching behind the sea robins to capitalize on their knack for unearthing buried goods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-sea-robin-legs">Studying sea robin legs</h2>



As the research progressed, it was found that the 'legs' of the sea robins were covered in sensory papillae. 



They also noticed that the sea robins would scratch at the sand surface to find buried prey, like mussels and other shellfish, without visual cues.



This indicated that their legs were sensitive to both mechanical and chemical stimuli. 



They even tested this by burying capsules containing single chemicals, and the sea robins had no trouble finding them at all.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sea-robin-genetics">Sea robin genetics</h2>



Further developmental studies indicated that these papillae represented a significant evolutionary innovation, granting the sea robins a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiktaalik-fossil-discovery-sheds-light-on-how-fish-walked-onto-land/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unique niche on the seafloor</a> that other animals can't replicate. 



"Although many traits look new, they are usually built from genes and modules that have existed for a long time. That's how evolution works: by tinkering with old pieces to build new things," Kingsley commented.



A key finding from their studies identified an ancient and conserved transcription factor, tbx3a, as a significant determinant of the sea robins' sensory leg development. 



This gene played a crucial role in the formation of the sea robins' sensory papillae and their digging behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-of-adaptation">Power of adaptation</h2>



These researchers went beyond just studying a "fish with legs"; they also explored how this weird animal could serve as a powerful model organism to compare specialized traits and teach us about how evolution allows for adaptation to very specific environments.



About 6 million years ago, humans evolved to walk upright, separating themselves from their primate ancestors. Bipedalism is a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/younger-storks-choose-migration-routes-that-are-social-hotspots/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">defining feature of our species</a>. 



Sea robins and their adaptation to living on the ocean floor could provide insights into how this change may have occurred, allowing us to view evolution through a different lens.



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



The unique adaptations seen in the sea robin not only illuminate aspects of ecological evolution but also hold significant implications for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-gamers-help-advance-gut-microbiome-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biomedical research</a>.



Understanding how the same genetic pathways are repurposed across different species for specialized functions could provide insights into human limb development and associated disorders. 



This cross-species analysis underscores the potential for evolutionary models like the sea robin to offer unanticipated avenues in medical genetics. 



This avenue of exploration could eventually aid in the development of innovative treatments for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horseback-riding-changes-our-skeleton-especially-the-hip-joints/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">musculoskeletal</a> and sensory conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolved-legs-of-sea-robins">Evolved legs of sea robins</h2>



In a broader context, the study of sea robins serves as a fascinating case of convergent evolution, where similar traits arise independently in unrelated lineages. 



This research bridges gaps between distant branches of life, offering a more comprehensive understanding of how complex structures can arise through subtle genetic shifts. 



As we continue to uncover these kinds of evolutionary mysteries, we gain not only a deeper appreciation of these remarkable creatures but also a clearer picture of the shared <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/debilitating-human-parasite-is-spread-to-dogs-through-fish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological heritage</a> that links all forms of life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-directions">Future directions</h2>



Beside their unique legs and overall phenotype, sea robins also offer a deeper understanding of the genetic control of complex traits and adaptations, and how these can evolve. 



The research also paves the way for further studies to explore similar traits in other organisms. 



Now, who would've thought that a bottom-dwelling fish could teach us so much about the complex interplay of genes and environment?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/abstract/S0960-9822(24)01126-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Fish called "sea robins" have real legs that they use to both walk and taste things

An evolutionary quirk exists in today's world, but it lives...

The intricate structure of coral reefs creates a vibrant underwater ecosystem, bustling with life. Ironically, this same complexity can hinder coral recovery after disturbances, as researchers studying reefs in Moorea, French Polynesia, have discovered. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-network-of-coral-skeletons-nbsp">Network of coral skeletons&nbsp;</h2>



The experts found that the network of dead coral skeletons left behind by bleaching events disrupts critical processes, ultimately preventing the reefs from regenerating.&nbsp;



These dead structures protect seaweed from herbivores, allowing it to rapidly colonize and outcompete young coral.&nbsp;



The findings, published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/gcb.17504" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>, highlight how the aftermath of disturbances can alter a reef's recovery trajectory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coral-reef-disturbances">Coral reef disturbances</h2>



Coral reefs are dynamic systems that undergo constant change, and disturbances such as storms, coral predation, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/60-percent-global-coral-reefs-face-bleaching-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bleaching</a> events can significantly impact their health. 



Historically, tropical storms and cyclones have caused the most damage to Moorea’s reefs.&nbsp;



“They tend to scrape all the coral off the reef and leave behind a flat surface,” said Kai Kopecky, lead author and a former doctoral student at the <a href="https://www.ucsb.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California Santa Barbara</a>’s Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology. 



However, more recent disturbances, such as coral bleaching and predation, have become increasingly prevalent. Unlike storms that physically remove coral, bleaching events leave the reef’s skeletons intact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bleaching-and-other-stressors">Bleaching and other stressors</h2>



Bleaching occurs when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeding-corals-can-help-them-recover-from-heat-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a>, usually from heat, causes coral to expel the symbiotic algae that supply it with food. 



While coral can sometimes recover if favorable conditions return, more often than not, the colony dies, particularly when other stressors like pollution are present.&nbsp;



For instance, a major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cyclones-impact-coral-reefs-as-far-as-1000-kilometers-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cyclone</a> struck Moorea's reefs in 2010, clearing almost all the coral from the fore reef. “But within about five years, it recovered back to the amount of coral it had before the storm had hit,” Kopecky noted. 



However, following a bleaching event in 2019, Kopecky and his team observed a starkly different outcome.&nbsp;



The dead coral structure remained, but instead of recovering, the reef continued to decline, and seaweed (macroalgae) began to proliferate. Kopecky wanted to understand how these different disturbances affected the reef’s recovery.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modeling-a-reef-system">Modeling a reef system</h2>



To explore this, the researchers conducted an experiment as part of their work at the <a href="https://lternet.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Long Term Ecological Research</a> (LTER) site at Moorea Coral Reef. 



The goal was to analyze the processes that were being disrupted after the bleaching event. In 2023, the scientists developed a mathematical model of the reef system, while their field study focused on examining the underlying mechanisms.



The research team cleared small patches of the reef to create experimental areas. They cemented controlled numbers of dead coral skeletons in these patches and added young, healthy coral that could be periodically removed and measured.&nbsp;



Trays of macroalgae were also placed on the reef to compare how herbivores interacted with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/algae-support-corals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">algae</a> in the presence of dead coral skeletons versus open areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coral-skeletons-limits-new-growth">Coral skeletons limits new growth</h2>



“We found that dead coral skeletons prevent herbivores from being able to remove macroalgae, enabling growth and preventing new corals from being able to settle and survive on the reef,” Kopecky explained.&nbsp;



These skeletons might theoretically offer some protection to young coral recruits if they arrived shortly after a bleaching event.&nbsp;



Unfortunately, coral tends to spawn only once a year, whereas algae reproduce continuously, giving seaweed the upper hand in colonizing newly available spaces.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-competition-for-resources">Competition for resources</h2>



Macroalgae directly compete with coral for resources like space and light. Algae grow much faster than coral, so when herbivores are unable to control seaweed growth, the algae can quickly overrun the reef.&nbsp;



This prevents new coral from settling, and even shades out existing colonies, making recovery difficult.&nbsp;



Young coral is particularly vulnerable to this competition, and once a reef flips from coral to algae dominance, it is challenging to reverse the process.&nbsp;



The researchers' previous studies have shown how hard it can be to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restored-coral-reefs-can-bounce-back-in-just-four-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">restore</a> coral cover once this shift occurs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dramatic-differences-in-reef-recovery">Dramatic differences in reef recovery</h2>



By comparing their experimental results with long-term data from Moorea, the researchers noted dramatic differences in reef recovery following different types of disturbances.&nbsp;



“Coral cover shot up on the reefs after the cyclone, while macroalgae cover went down,” Kopecky said. “After the bleaching event, it was just the opposite.”



These findings fit into the broader concept of ecological memory, which examines how past events shape an ecosystem’s response to current challenges.&nbsp;



As the nature of disturbances shifts, the way ecosystems like coral reefs respond also changes.&nbsp;



“As these disturbance regimes change, ecological memory is also changing,” Kopecky said.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-removing-coral-skeletons-nbsp">Removing coral skeletons&nbsp;</h2>



Unfortunately, the legacy of dead coral skeletons may not align with what these ecosystems are adapted to handle, which could alter long-standing relationships between coral, algae, and herbivores.



Kopecky is now considering whether removing dead skeletons could help coral recover or at least reduce the negative effects of bleaching.&nbsp;



“In coral reefs, this is a novel idea and strategy. But if you look to other ecosystems - like prescribed burns in forests to remove dead wood - people have been increasingly thinking about manipulating dead stuff in ecosystems for management purposes,” he concluded.



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Dead coral skeletons prevent reefs from recovering

The intricate structure of coral reefs creates a vibrant underwater...

Ever been on horseback, feeling the power of the creature below you and the wind in your hair? Of course, it's a bit hard on the body. But did you ever consider that horseback riding might have the power to change the shape of your skeleton?



It's a complex topic, but researchers from the University of Colorado Boulder are diving in headfirst. Their new study draws from a rich evidence - from modern medical studies of horse riders to records of human remains spanning millennia.



What they've found is that, yes, horseback riding can indeed leave traces on our skeletons, subtly changing the shape of our hip joints. But that doesn't mean you can point to a skeleton and definitively say, "Ah, a horse rider!"



We sit for long periods, we engage in various physical activities - all of which can also transform our bones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-horseback-riding">Impact of horseback riding</h2>



This bone-altering revelation comes from Lauren Hosek, an assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology at the <a href="https://www.colorado.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Colorado Boulder</a>, and the lead author of the study. 



"In archaeology, there are vanishingly few instances in which we can tie a particular activity unequivocally to skeletal changes," said Professor Hosek. 



So, what relevance does this hold? Well, for one, these findings might have major implications for those studying the origins of domesticated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-horse-protection-day-respecting-the-needs-and-rights-of-horses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">horses</a>. 



In addition, the research is casting some serious doubt on an archaeology theory that's been standing tall for quite a while - the Kurgan hypothesis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-relationships-between-humans-and-horses">Relationships between humans and horses</h2>



According to study co-author William Taylor, curator of archaeology at the CU <a href="https://www.colorado.edu/resources/museum-natural-history" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Museum of Natural History</a>, this research is smack dab in the middle of one of archaeology's oldest debates.



The earliest undeniable evidence of humans using horses for transport comes from the region around Russia's Ural Mountains, where scientists have found horses, bridles, and chariots dating back to around 4,000 years ago.



But here comes the Kurgan hypothesis, saying, "Hold your horses!" This theory, originating in the early 20th century, posits that the close relationship between humans and horses started much earlier. 



It suggests that around the fourth millennium B.C., the Yamnaya people living near the Black Sea were the first to gallop on horses across Eurasia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-impacts-of-horseback-riding">Cultural impacts of horseback riding</h2>



A popular belief is that these early horse riders may have spread early versions of languages that eventually evolved into English, French, and other languages.



“For decades, there’s been this idea that the distribution of Indo-European languages is, in some way, related to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horse-miscarriages-offer-insights-into-human-pregnancy-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">domestication of the horse</a>,” said Taylor.



It has also been suggested that human remains from the Yamnaya culture, dating back to about 3500 B.C., show evidence of wear and tear from horse riding - which supports the Kurgan hypothesis.



But Hosek and Taylor are here to reign in the speculation. They argue that it's not so straightforward.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexity-of-skeletal-changes">Complexity of skeletal changes</h2>



Professor Hosek has spent countless hours scrutinizing human bones to glean lessons about the past. She explains that the skeleton isn't fixed in place, but can change shape throughout an individual's lifetime.



Think about it: you pull a muscle, and where that muscle attaches to the bone, a reaction can occur, making the bone more porous or forming raised ridges. But interpreting these clues is a murky business at best.



For instance, let's talk about the hip joint. When you flex your legs at the hip for long periods - like during an extended horse ride - the hip joint's ball and socket may rub together along one edge.



Over time, this rubbing can cause the hip bone's socket to become more oval. But numerous other activities can result in the same elongation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alternatives-to-horseback-riding">Alternatives to horseback riding</h2>



As it happens, humans used cattle, donkeys, and even wild asses for transport in certain areas of western Asia centuries before <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horses-demonstrate-an-unanticipated-level-of-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">horse</a> taming began. 



These ancient people likely attached these animals to carts or even smaller two-wheeled vehicles much like a chariot.



“This repetitive, intense pressure from that kind of jostling in a flexed position could cause skeletal changes,” said Professor Hosek. She has seen similar changes in the skeletons of 20th-century Catholic nuns, who despite never riding horses, took long carriage rides across the American West.



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



In the end, Hosek and Taylor believe that human remains alone can't provide an exact date for when people started horseback riding - not with the current scientific tools anyway.



“Human skeletons alone are not going to be enough evidence,” said Hosek. “We need to couple that data with evidence coming out of genetics and archaeology and by looking at horse remains, too.”



As for the Kurgan hypothesis, Taylor claims that from their research, "none of these lines of evidence suggest that the Yamnaya people had domestic horses.” 



So, next time you go for a horse ride, remember: you're participating in an activity that's been shaping human history - and our very bones - for millennia. And who knows what scholars will uncover next in this fascinating field?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.ado9774" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Horseback riding changes human skeletons, especially the hips

Ever been on horseback, feeling the power of the creature...

In the mesmerizing world of mammal evolution, an exciting discovery has emerged from Brazil, shedding new light on our understanding of the evolution of distinct mammalian traits.



Fossils of the mammal-precursor species, Brasilodon quadrangularis and Riograndia guaibensis, provide us with intriguing insights into the formation of the mammalian jaw and middle ear.



The fossils reveal that evolutionary experiments were taking place far earlier than previously theorized.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-journey-of-mammal-ancestors">Evolutionary journey of mammal ancestors</h2>



<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> are unique among vertebrates, boasting a distinct jaw structure and the presence of three middle ear bones. Earlier vertebrates only had a single middle ear bone, and scientists have been eager to uncover how this transition occurred.



The labyrinth of history guides us to mammalian ancestors known as cynodonts, revealing how they gradually evolved these unique traits. For the first time, cutting-edge CT scanning technology allowed researchers to digitally reconstruct the jaw joint of these cynodonts.



It became apparent that the connection between the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/skull-evolution-why-some-mammals-have-long-faces/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">skull</a> and the lower jaw, a widely recognized "mammalian-style" contact, was present in Riograndia guaibensis.



Astoundingly, this species lived a good 17 million years before the previously oldest recorded example of this structure.



But the plot thickens when we turn to another species. In Brasilodon quadrangularis, a species believed to be more closely related to mammals, there was no such contact. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-daring-experimentalists-of-evolution">Daring experimentalists of evolution </h2>



The fossil findings paint a picture of our mammal ancestors as the daring experimentalists of evolution.



These animals tested the waters with varying jaw functions, leading to "mammalian" traits which manifested independently in different bloodlines. Thus, the early stages of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feredocodon-chowi-fossils-yield-clues-mammal-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mammalian evolution</a> were far more diverse and intricate than what was previously believed.



James Rawson, the study's lead author based in <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/earthsciences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bristol’s School of Earth Sciences</a>, emphasized the significance of this revelation.



"The acquisition of the mammalian jaw contact was a key moment in mammal evolution," said Rawson.



"What these new Brazilian fossils have shown is that different cynodont groups were experimenting with various jaw joint types, and that some features once considered uniquely mammalian evolved numerous times in other lineages as well.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-early-mammal-evolution">Understanding early mammal evolution</h2>



This astounding discovery creates a domino effect of implications for our understanding of the early stages of mammal evolution. 



It illustrates the evolution of features such as the mammalian <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeding-habits-shaped-the-skulls-of-humans-and-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jaw joint</a> and middle ear bones in a patchwork fashion across various cynodont groups.



Dr. Agustín Martinelli, from the Museo Argentino de Ciencias Natural of Buenos Aires, remarked on the treasure trove of knowledge unveiled by these fossils.



“Over the last years, these tiny fossil species from Brazil have brought marvelous information that enriches our knowledge about the origin and evolution of mammalian features. We are just in the beginning and our multinational collaborations will bring more news soon," said Dr. Martinelli.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-south-american-fossil-record">South American fossil record</h2>



Meanwhile, the research team is thrilled to explore the South American fossil record, known for its richness and potential to enhance our understanding.



Professor Marina Soares of the Museu Nacional, Brazil, further emphasized the region's importance: “Nowhere else in the world has such a diverse array of cynodont forms, closely related to the earliest mammals.”



The team aims to integrate these new findings with existing data to explore how the early jaw joints functioned and contributed to the development of the mammalian form.



According to Rawson, the study opens new doors for paleontological research, as these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossils-capture-a-turning-point-in-the-evolution-of-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossils</a> provide invaluable evidence of the complex and varied evolutionary experiments that ultimately gave rise to modern mammals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-ancient-ancestors-to-modern-mammals">From ancient ancestors to modern mammals </h2>



The discovery of these fossils opens up new avenues for exploring other fossil records worldwide, allowing scientists to re-examine previous finds with fresh insights.



The story of mammal evolution is now more complex and intricate than ever before, reminding us that evolution is not a straight path but a winding journey full of surprises.



New fossil discoveries are changing our understanding of the transition from ancient ancestors to modern mammals. With continued exploration in Brazil and beyond, the mysteries of our evolutionary past are beginning to unfold in fascinating ways.



The study is published in the journal Nature.



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Mammal evolution kicked off with daring 'experiments'

In the mesmerizing world of mammal evolution, an exciting discovery...

Near the curve of Chile's shoreline, in regions of the ocean teeming with krill and anchovy, lies a world inhabited by a relatively obscure population of orcas.



Here, right under the Humboldt Current's life-giving hum, scientists are unraveling the mysteries of these magnificent beasts, starting with their gastronomic indulgences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-orcas-hunting-dolphins">Orcas hunting dolphins</h2>



Dr. Ana Garcia Cegarra's team from <a href="https://www.uantof.cl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Universidad de Antofagasta</a> had previously observed these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orcas-rely-only-on-one-breath-between-dives-to-conserve-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orcas</a> ingeniously exploiting fishing vessels to ensnare sea lions. The researchers have now recorded them successfully hunting dusky dolphins.



What's more, the food is shared among the pod - a testament to their social camaraderie. These fresh revelations could give us valuable insight into the relation between different orca populations in the southern hemisphere.



“Studying orcas in their natural environment is very challenging as they are marine top predators, traveling long distances and living offshore, which makes observation difficult,” said Cegarra.



“But understanding their role in the marine environment is crucial for the conservation of this poorly-known species in the Humboldt Current.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dietary-habits-of-orcas">Dietary habits of orcas</h2>



Orcas, often regarded as apex predators, boast an incredibly varied diet. However, not all orca populations share the same <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sign-of-the-times-solitary-orcas-are-hunting-great-whites/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">culinary preferences</a>. They can be segmented into different ecotypes depending upon their food choices, acoustics, and genetics. 



Hence, comprehending the dietary habits of the orcas in the Humboldt Current is a crucial step toward understanding their niche within the global orca community.



Five diverse ecotypes have been identified in the southern hemisphere. While some, like Type A and Type B1 orcas, are partial towards marine mammals, others favor fish.



Figuring out where the Humboldt Current orcas fit in this intricate food web is key to understanding the broader relations between these populations and, in turn, preserving them for the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hunting-patterns-of-orcas">Hunting patterns of orcas</h2>



In order to monitor the population and track their food choices, Dr. Garcia Cegarra and her associates utilized their own surveys as well as data collected from whale-watching trips and fishing vessels.



Orcas sightings were documented, and group compositions and locations were recorded. Pictures and video footage captured on the scene were later cross-checked with catalogues of known individuals.



This data, in combination with regular surveys and drone footage, allowed the scientists to map the presence of orcas in the area and track the pods' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mothers-care-linked-to-the-evolution-of-longer-lifespans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behavioral patterns</a> and prey preferences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-menacho-pod-of-orcas">Menacho pod of orcas</h2>



The researchers managed to record the Menacho pod of orcas hunting dusky dolphins - a feat previously unreported for orcas in the region. The images are nothing short of dramatic. They show Dakota, the matriarch, flinging a dusky dolphin into the air.



These sightings hint at the possibility of the orcas belonging to the mammal-hunting Type A ecotype. Their choice of prey and comparatively smaller pod size align well with this hypothesis, although their white eye patches are smaller than the typical Type A orcas.



Furthermore, these orcas have never been spotted in Patagonia, the typical haunt of Type A orcas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-orcas-on-a-dolphin-hunt">Orcas on a dolphin hunt</h2>



Of course, all these findings only highlight the need for more research. Dr. Garcia Cegarra said that while the team wishes they could retrieve skin biopsy samples to conduct genetic analysis, the fact that these orcas are elusive and highly intelligent makes it difficult to approach them for biopsies.



What's more, the observations of the dolphin hunt revealed the Menacho pod sharing their spoils - a display of food sharing common among many orca populations. 



The Menacho orcas likely feed their kin, similar to Type A orcas who hunt sea lions through deliberate stranding. Female orcas have been observed sharing meat with group members, allowing closer relations to eat first.



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



Dr. Garcia Cegarra emphasized the need for more systematic study to fully understand and protect this secretive orca <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-sea-lizard-khinjaria-had-teeth-like-daggers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">population</a>.



"We have observed newborn calves, which indicates that they are having offspring, but their survival rate remains unknown," she noted. 



Citizen scientists have monitored killer whales along thousands of kilometers of the Chilean coastline, but these sightings are largely opportunistic.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.2024.1450624/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Marine Science</a>.



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Orcas have hunting and eating habits that we never imagined

Near the curve of Chile's shoreline, in regions of the...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"] Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected...

Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu/">University of Miami</a> Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science explores how changes in water temperatures have affected tiger shark habitats and movements in the North Atlantic Ocean. The study reveals that rising temperatures have caused the sharks to shift toward the poles over the past 40 years.



“Tiger shark annual migrations have expanded poleward, paralleling rising water temperatures,” explained study lead author Neil Hammerschlag. “These results have consequences for tiger shark conservation, since shifts in their movements outside of marine protected areas may leave them more vulnerable to commercial fishing.”



The researchers analyzed nine years of tracking data from satellite-tagged tiger sharks, combined with four decades of conventional tag and recapture data provided by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Cooperative Shark Tagging Program.



The experts found that during the last decade of record heat, for every one-degree Celsius increase in water temperatures, tiger sharks migrated further poleward by over 400 kilometers. They also migrated two weeks earlier than usual to waters off the northeastern coast of the United States.



“Given their role as apex predators, these changes to tiger shark movements may alter predator-prey interactions, leading to ecological imbalances, and more frequent encounters with humans,” concluded Professor Hammerschlag.



Video Credit: University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

Today’s Video of the Day from the University of Miami...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> is focused on the melt ponds that emerge during the spring and summer on the Greenland Ice Sheet, which is the largest ice mass in the northern hemisphere.



"Melt ponds are vast pools of open water that form on both sea ice and ice sheets and are visible as turquoise-blue pools of water in this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image," says ESA.



"When snow and ice melts atop glaciers, water flows in channels and streams and collects in depressions on the surface. These melt ponds can speed up the melting of the surrounding ice since they greatly reduce the ice’s ability to reflect sunlight."



"This can create a positive feedback where an increasing number of melt ponds absorb more heat which causes ice cover to melt even faster."



According to ESA, Greenland has been hit with a late-season heatwave that began in early September. This caused the type of melt event that usually occurs in the middle of summer.



"In a recent paper published in Nature Climate Change, scientists found that major sea-level rise from the melting of the Greenland ice cap is now ‘inevitable’ even if the burning of fossil fuels were to halt overnight," says ESA. "Using satellite observations of Greenland ice loss and ice cap from 2000 to 2019, the team found the losses will lead to a minimum rise of 27 cm regardless of climate change."



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes a new map of Mars that is providing insight into the planet’s watery past. The map also reveals where future missions could safely land on Mars.&nbsp;



The map has been created over the last decade using observations of water-rich rocks and mineral deposits. The images were captured by ESA’s Mars Express and NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter.



"A big surprise is the prevalence of these minerals, with the map revealing hundreds of thousands of water-affected locations in the oldest parts of the planet," says ESA. "The new data will help answer exciting questions about Mars’ climate history, whether water was globally persistent or confined to short, intense episodes, and whether the conditions were ever suitable for life."



"Specifically, the map shows the locations and abundances of aqueous minerals. These are from rocks that have been chemically altered by the action of water in the past, and have typically been transformed into clays and salts."



According to John Carter of the Institut d’Astrophysique Spatiale (IAS), our collective understanding of Mars has been oversimplified. He explained that planetary scientists have tended to think that only a few types of clay minerals on Mars were created during its wet period, then as the water gradually dried up, salts were produced across the planet.



The new map shows that the composition of Mars is much more complicated than what we thought. For example, while many salts formed after Martian clays, there are some salts that are presumed to be older than some of the clays.&nbsp;



“The evolution from lots of water to no water is not as clear cut as we thought, the water didn’t just stop overnight. We see a huge diversity of geological contexts, so that no one process or simple timeline can explain the evolution of the mineralogy of Mars. That’s the first result of our study. The second is that if you exclude life processes on Earth, Mars exhibits a diversity of mineralogy in geological settings just as Earth does,” said Carter.



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes how cavefish adapted to a sedentary lifestyle over tens of thousands of years. 



The experts found that the muscle metabolism of cavefish has been genetically reprogrammed over time. As a result, the animals have experienced major changes in their morphology and behavior. Despite these changes, however, the cavefish remain healthy and fit.



The research may provide new clues about the evolutionary consequences of prolonged physical inactivity in humans.&nbsp;



“It’s no surprise that people are moving less and less as technology has advanced,” said Rohner. “With cavefish, we have a unique system where we can study what might happen if people remained couch potatoes over very, very long periods of time.”



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> some of the most incredible waves in the world, as seen by Landsat satellites.



"With more than 370,000 miles of coastline on Earth, there are plenty of places where epic waves build up, curl over, and hurtle toward the shore.- much to the thrill of surfers," says NASA. "There are some places where these waves are so magnificent that they can be seen from space."



"With the broad perspective of satellites, we can see how these iconic waves develop into the world’s tallest, longest, fastest, and heaviest."



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes why satellite images and measurements of our planet have become "essential to our survival, offering a new outlook of our world."&nbsp;



Rising sea levels pose one of the biggest societal threats associated with climate change. According to ESA, satellite altimeter missions such as Copernicus Sentinel-6 are essential in monitoring global and regional changes in sea level.



"Unbeknown to many, the island of Crete, Greece, plays an important role in the Copernicus satellite altimetry constellation and on an international stage," reports ESA.



"Satellite altimetry data have to be continuously monitored at the ESA’s Permanent Facility for Altimetry Calibration where different techniques have pioneered the use of transponders to provide the best measurements to validate satellite altimeters in space soon after launch."



Dr. Craig Donlon explains that, by understanding planet Earth through satellite measurements, we are able to find evidence of change.&nbsp;



Video Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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

Satellites have become essential to our survival

[sendtonews key="761m2QQvR1-2035772-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...