A new study reveals that rat infestations in many cities worldwide are on the rise, with Washington, D.C. emerging as the biggest hotspot. 



The study, which was focused on rat sighting reports from 16 global cities, attributes the increasing rat populations to warming temperatures, urbanization, and other human activities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rat-sightings-on-the-rise">Rat sightings on the rise</h2>



The researchers conducted a first-of-its-kind analysis using publicly submitted rat complaint data. They discovered that in 11 of the 16 cities analyzed, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rats-have-a-very-complex-social-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rat</a> sightings have increased in recent years. 



Based on individual city trends, Washington D.C. led the pack, followed by San Francisco, Toronto, New York City, and Amsterdam. According to the study, the rat reporting trend in Washington D.C. was three times greater than that of Boston. 



Only three cities - New Orleans, Louisville, and Tokyo - experienced significant decreases in rat reports, with New Orleans showing the largest drop. The experts suggest that New Orleans’ strategies could serve as a model for other cities seeking to control rat populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-drivers-of-rat-population-growth">Key drivers of rat population growth </h2>



The research team performed statistical analyses of rat sighting reports and concluded that a little over 40% of the rising trend is due to warming temperatures. 



This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rapid-surge-in-global-warming-may-have-an-unexpected-source/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming</a> is primarily a result of burning coal, oil, and natural gas, which leads to milder winters and longer foraging periods for rats. 



Study lead author Jonathan Richardson, a biologist at the <a href="https://www.richmond.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Richmond</a>, explained the mechanism.



“We're seeing these increasing trends in rats in cities that are warming the fastest, probably because this is a small mammal that has physiological challenges in the cold weather months,” said Richardson.&nbsp;



“If we're warming the climate and winter starts a week or two later and spring arrives a week or two earlier, that's one, two, maybe even three or four weeks across the entire year where those rats can be above ground foraging, acquiring more food and maybe squeezing out one or two more reproductive cycles.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urbanization-and-higher-population-density">Urbanization and higher population density </h2>



Even a few extra weeks of activity can have a dramatic effect, given that female rats can produce a litter every month. With each litter consisting of eight to 16 pups, this additional time significantly accelerates population growth.



In addition to the effects of warming, the study identified increased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urbanization-is-a-threat-to-78-of-the-worlds-bird-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urbanization</a> and higher population densities as major factors. Rats thrive in built environments where food waste is abundant and human activity creates numerous shelters.&nbsp;



The experts note that these conditions allow rats to flourish in areas where people and their refuse provide a constant source of sustenance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rats-nature-s-ultimate-urban-survivors">Rats: Nature’s ultimate urban survivors</h2>



Rats have evolved to be remarkably adaptive in urban settings. New York City rat czar Kathleen Corradi stated during a conference that the rat is the third most successful mammal behind humans and house mice. So it evolved and engineered to live alongside us.&nbsp;



“They followed humans, Homo sapiens, across the continents and are in every single continent except Antarctica. So it's considered a wicked problem.”



Their ability to adapt and survive in close proximity to humans explains why rat populations are expanding even as cities implement various control measures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-rising-rat-populations">Consequences of rising rat populations</h2>



While rats are undeniably adaptable, their increasing numbers pose serious risks. When rodent populations soar, public health and urban infrastructure can suffer. 



"When rodent populations are high, people get sick, motor vehicles become disabled, mental health declines, fires are started and foods fouled," said Houston rat expert Michael Parsons, who was not involved in the study.



This statement captures the multifaceted impact of rat infestations. High rat populations can lead to increased transmission of diseases, disruption of transportation systems, and other societal challenges. 



People are understandably disturbed by rats, primarily due to an instinctive fear of creatures that can transmit disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantifying-city-rats">Quantifying city rats</h2>



Rats are notoriously difficult to count accurately due to their secretive and elusive nature. The study did not count rats directly; instead, it analyzed rat sighting complaints submitted by city residents. 



Although these reports may not reflect the actual number of rats, they provide valuable insight into trends over time. Richardson emphasized that the long-term consistency of the reporting methods used in the study lends credibility to the observed trends.



Even though Washington D.C. exhibited the highest rate of increase, Richardson clarified that this does not necessarily mean the city has the most rats overall - it simply indicates that the number of rat complaints is rising faster than in other cities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prevention-over-poison">Prevention over poison</h2>



The study's findings suggest that traditional methods of rat control, such as poisoning and trapping, may not be sufficient to combat the escalating problem. 



Instead, prevention measures appear to be more effective. In cities like New Orleans, public authorities are taking proactive steps. 



For instance, educational workshops and community campaigns focus on reducing conditions that attract rats, such as improper waste management and excess food availability.



“In New Orleans they make a big effort to get out into neighborhoods and do educational workshops and campaigns to talk to residents about what makes a property less likely to have rats,” Richardson said.



Similarly, New York City has initiated innovative strategies, including replacing street garbage bags with rat-resistant containers and forming an elite volunteer group known as the “NYC rat pack.” 



Early results from these initiatives are promising, although comprehensive data have yet to fully reflect their impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-complex-urban-challenge">A complex urban challenge</h2>



While it is possible to better manage rat populations through improved urban planning and public education, complete eradication is unrealistic. 



As <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a> conservation scientist Neil Carter pointed out, we can fight them better, but in the end “people need to coexist with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-addresses-the-global-need-for-human-wildlife-coexistence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a> in urban environments, even with rats.”



“Zero rats is impossible," noted Richardson. “But I think an expectation that we need to live with the number of rats that we're seeing in many of these cities is also an unhealthy perspective on this problem.”



In conclusion, this study offers a critical, data-driven look at the complex factors driving rat population growth in urban environments. 



As cities continue to warm, expand, and densify, the challenge of managing rat populations will require innovative and sustainable approaches that focus on prevention and public awareness.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.ads6782" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



Image Credit: AP Photo/Mary Altaffer



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Rat populations are increasing in cities as temperatures rise

A new study reveals that rat infestations in many cities worldwide are on the rise, with Washington, D.C. emerging as the biggest hotspot. The study, which was focused on rat sighting reports from 16 global cities, attributes the increasing rat populations to warming temperatures, urbanization, and other human activities. Rat sightings on the rise The researchers conducted a first-of-its-kind analysis using publicly submitted rat complaint data. They discovered that in 11 of the 16 cities analyzed, rat sightings have increased in recent years.  Based on individual city...

Have you ever pondered the bewildering array of creatures that inhabit our planet? From scaly reptiles to feathered birds and furry beasts, each one piques our curiosity. One such group that stands out because of their unusual stomachs is the monotremes.



Monotremes are egg-laying mammals -- encompassing the platypus and echidnas -- and they bask in the glory of being the oldest living <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unearthing-the-lost-world-of-unique-mammals-in-australia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mammalian lineage</a>. These oddballs continue to intrigue and confound scientists around the globe.



The recent revelation hits the nail on the head, demystifying why they have unusually small, non-acidic stomachs; in particular, platypuses lack a pyloric sphincter, the gateway that controls the passage of food from the stomach to the intestine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monotremes-anatomy">Monotremes anatomy</h2>



Enter Jackson Dann, the lead author of this groundbreaking study, and a Ph.D. student at the University of Adelaide's <a href="https://set.adelaide.edu.au/biological-sciences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Biological Sciences</a>.



"Work from our lab previously had shown that the platypus and echidna had lost the genetic instructions for proteins that break down food and secrete stomach acids, but to me this didn't explain the drastic shift in their stomach anatomy relative to other animals," Dann shared his initial dilemma.



Drawing a unique conclusion from his research, he discovered that an essential gene named Nkx3.2 was inactivated in the common ancestor between platypuses and echidnas, tens of millions of years ago!



"Thanks to novel repositories of genetic data, and physical specimens we had at the lab, we were able to discover that Nkx3.2 wasn't functional in monotremes, and this inactivating event contributed to the evolution of their unique body plans," Dann continued.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-monotreme-s-stomach-anatomy">Insights into monotreme's stomach anatomy</h2>



Dann and his team's discerning analysis of genetic data endowed us with priceless insights into how the monotreme stomach evolved and how it develops in the fetal period.



Monotremes harbor an enigmatic stomach anatomy. 



"It's likely there is some overarching <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-mammals-play-a-vital-role-in-maintaining-forest-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological factor</a> we're missing as to why these species have lost their stomachs," Dann surmised.



"It's otherwise surprising that we would see these drastic shifts in stomach anatomy in monotremes and then the next closely related species are loose groups of fish."



The lens of curiosity zoomed onto these remarkable creatures based on Dann’s fascination with the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-mammals-have-evolved-over-66-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a> of unique animal body plans. 



The published research paper in Open Biology shines a light on a singular aspect of the labyrinthine evolutionary trajectory of monotremes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-significance-of-monotremes">Evolutionary significance of monotremes</h2>



Monotremes hold a pivotal place in the evolutionary timeline, serving as a bridge between reptiles and mammals. Their unique characteristics reveal much about the diversification of mammals over millions of years. 



With a lineage dating back to the Mesozoic era, these creatures exemplify how evolutionary adaptations can lead to distinct biological forms. 



The study of monotremes enables scientists to understand not just their own evolutionary history, but also the evolutionary mechanisms that led to the vast array of mammalian life we see today. 



This knowledge can offer insights into resilience and adaptation in changing environments, shedding light on the pressures that shape species over time.



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



Dann's study is not simply for the biologists and geneticists, but also for us, the ordinary folks. He earnestly believes that the more we know about monotremes -- and all Australian fauna -- the more we can appreciate their role in their ecosystems and celebrate their idiosyncrasies.



"There are fantastic efforts led by my colleagues, Dr. Tahlia Perry, Isabella Wilson, and my supervisor, Professor Frank Grützner, into engaging and educating the public about monotreme biology and conservation, such as through EchidnaCSI," Dann appreciatively said.



"A better understanding of these unique and iconic species provides a significant contribution to Australian ecology and culture -- they help us understand more about mammals, including ourselves."



As we delve deeper into monotreme biology, it becomes evident that their distinct traits not only offer insights into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-geographic-isolation-shaped-global-species-habitat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mammalian evolution</a> but also highlight the delicate balance of ecosystems. 



By studying these remarkable animals, we gain a greater appreciation for biodiversity and the importance of preserving such unique species in our ever-changing world.



So, next time when you see a picture of an echidna or a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unique-museum-collection-of-platypuses-resurfaces-after-150-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">platypus</a>, remember that their small, non-acidic stomach hosts a tale of millions of years of evolution!



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsob.240071" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Open Biology</a>.



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Egg-laying mammals, called monotremes, are unique in many ways

Have you ever pondered the bewildering array of creatures that...

Ocean whispers, hums and resonates with its very own concert of life. However, noise pollution from human activities is beginning to override this melodious orchestra, introducing a cacophony of decibels that our marine friends, especially baby oysters, find disturbingly loud.



“The ocean's natural sound is gradually hushing due to habitat loss, leading to a quieter natural environment increasingly drowned out by the crescendo of human-made noise pollution,” explained Dr. Brittany Williams from the <a href="https://www.adelaide.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Adelaide</a>’s Southern Seas Ecology Laboratories, and lead author of the research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-baby-oysters-and-noise-from-human-activity">Baby oysters and noise from human activity</h2>



Marine organisms, including the delicate oysters, rely heavily on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-noise-is-getting-louder-what-does-this-mean-for-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean's natural acoustics</a> for their survival. 



Like the conductor of an orchestra, these acoustics guide their activities - sense their surroundings, navigate, communicate, avoid predators, find mates and food. 



Reliant on these natural acoustic cues, baby oysters specifically settle in environments that resonate with the right note. Unfortunately, this ‘note’ is increasingly being drowned by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/noise-pollution-is-increasingly-disrupting-whale-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">noises of human activity</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-noise-is-an-unseen-threat-to-oysters">Noise is an unseen threat to oysters</h2>



The humdrum of shipping, machinery, and construction are some of the many human activities that contribute to the rising noise pollution in our oceans. 



The concern isn't just about the loudness of these noises, but also the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-pollution-kills-ocean-embryos-during-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">significant environmental changes</a> these instigate, impacting both terrestrial and marine animals. 



“Noises from shipping, machinery and construction, for example, are pervasive and pose serious environmental change that affects both terrestrial and marine animals,” Dr. Williams pointed out.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-struggles-of-restoring-reefs">Struggles of restoring reefs</h2>



Reefs rehabilitation comes with its own sets of challenges. Our previous understanding of using sound to lure oysters back to restored <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/self-repairing-oyster-reefs-will-help-protect-coastlines/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reefs</a> is now under scrutiny. 



“Our previous work demonstrated that novel acoustic technology can bolster oyster recruitment in habitat restoration projects, but this new research indicates potential limitations of this speaker technology,” obscured Dr. Dominic McAfee, another researcher from the University of Adelaide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-noise-pollution-impact-baby-oysters">Noise pollution impact baby oysters </h2>



In areas heavily polluted with human-made noise, the usage of specialized speaker technology to attract larvae failed. 



These noises might effectively cloak the intrinsic sounds of the ocean, creating serious implications for the marine ecosystem vitality and resilience.



“This suggests that noise pollution might cloak the intrinsic sounds of the ocean, potentially exerting profound ramifications on marine ecosystem vitality and resilience," Professor Sean Connell, a co-author of the research at the University of Adelaide and the <a href="https://www.adelaide.edu.au/environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environment Institute</a>, rightly said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-silver-lining">Silver lining</h2>



Despite the challenges, hope swims in the horizon. In areas with lesser anthropogenic noise, the acoustic technology seems to work well, enhancing the process of oyster recruitment which is key to habitat restoration success. 



 “Where there is little anthropogenic noise, acoustic enrichment appears to enhance the process of recruitment which is key to restoration success," notes Dr. Williams.



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



Community involvement is crucial in addressing the challenges posed by noise pollution in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-impacting-marine-life-more-than-we-realized/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine environments</a>. 



By raising awareness and encouraging local communities to participate in restoration efforts, we can create a more supportive atmosphere for the oceans' symphony to thrive. 



Engaging workshops and educational programs can equip the public with tools to understand the importance of soundscapes in marine ecology, leading to more responsible practices for protecting these vital ecosystems. 



As locals become stewards of their coastal environments, their actions can promote a healthier acoustic ecosystem for all marine life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-steps-to-fix-the-issue">Next steps to fix the issue</h2>



To combat the detrimental effects of noise pollution, ongoing research is essential. Scientists are exploring innovative methods to integrate acoustic technologies with natural reef rehabilitation strategies effectively. 



Future studies may focus on fine-tuning these technologies to ensure they replicate the acoustic signals prevalent in pristine environments, thus providing optimal cues for marine organisms like oysters. 



By understanding the complexities of marine soundscapes further, researchers hope to develop more effective interventions that bridge the gap between natural and artificial acoustic stimuli, ultimately leading to healthier marine ecosystems.



So, are we still in sync with our oceans? Or are we playing an entirely different tune? 



With the wall of human-made noise rising, it's an important question to ponder upon. The silent underwater world is being silenced further, and in this quiet, one can hear the plea for harmony!



Let's think about it – for the oysters, for all marine life, and for us.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2024.0741" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a>.



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Oyster populations are rapidly declining due to ocean noise

Ocean whispers, hums and resonates with its very own concert...

A new study, published in the scientific journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ece3.11658" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology and Evolution</a>, has recently explored the potential maximum sizes of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-dinosaurs-did-not-necessarily-grow-faster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaurs</a>, specifically focusing on the famous Tyrannosaurus Rex. 



Dr. Jordan Mallon of the<a href="https://nature.ca/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Canadian Museum of Nature</a> and Dr. David Hone of <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a> used computer modeling to estimate that T. rex might have been 70 percent heavier than current fossil evidence suggests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-largest-animals">Earth's largest animals</h2>



The researchers aimed to understand how dinosaurs could have <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-may-have-become-warm-blooded-180-million-years-ago/">evolved</a> to such massive sizes. The study highlights that most known dinosaur species come from just a few specimens, making it unlikely that we have discovered the largest individuals.&nbsp;



“Dinosaurs are the largest animals ever to have walked the earth. Accordingly, they inspire awe among the public, and frequently the question is asked: ‘Which is the biggest?’ But which is the biggest dinosaur (or example of some subclade or ecological guild) ever found and which is the biggest that ever lived are two separate considerations,” noted the researchers.



“The first is relatively straightforward to answer, notwithstanding complications in estimating body mass and comparing skeletons of variable completeness. The second consideration is the more difficult to address.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analyzing-the-size-of-t-rex">Analyzing the size of T. rex</h2>



To address this, Mallon and Hone created computer models considering variables like population size, growth rate, lifespan, and the incompleteness of the fossil record. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/were-there-three-distinct-species-of-tyrannosaurus-rex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">T. rex</a> was chosen due to the extensive data available on this iconic dinosaur. 



By using living alligators as a reference for body-size variance at adulthood, the researchers modeled size differences with and without considering sex differences.&nbsp;



The team found that the largest known T. rex fossils likely fall in the 99th percentile, representing the top one percent of body size. However, discovering an individual in the top 99.99 percent would require another 1,000 years of fossil excavation at the current rate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-size-of-t-rex">Surprising size of T. rex</h2>



According to their computer models, the largest individual T. rex that could have existed may have been 70 percent&nbsp; more massive than the current largest-known specimens, potentially weighing up to 15 tons compared to the previous estimate of 8.8 tons.&nbsp;



Additionally, these giant T. rexes could have been 25 percent longer, reaching up to 15 meters.



Dr. David Hone, from Queen Mary University of London, emphasized the significance of their findings, noting that there are hints of larger individuals in isolated bones and fragments. This suggests that larger dinosaurs existed but have yet to be discovered.&nbsp;



“Some isolated bones and pieces certainly hint at still larger individuals than for which we currently have <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-dinosaur-comptonatus-chasei-most-complete-discovered-unique-traits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">skeletons</a>,” he said.



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



The study contributes to ongoing debates about the biggest fossil animals. Many of the largest dinosaurs are known from a single specimen, making it difficult to determine if that individual represents the average size of the species. Thus, the largest displayed skeletons in museums might not be the largest individuals of their species.



“Our study suggests that, for big fossil animals like T. rex, we really have no idea from the fossil record about the absolute sizes they might have reached. It’s fun to think about a 15-ton T. rex, but the implications are also interesting from a biomechanical or ecological perspective,” said Dr. Jordan Mallon, a paleontologist at the Canadian Museum of Nature.



“It’s important to stress that this isn’t really about T. rex, which is the basis of our study, but this issue would apply to all dinosaurs, and lots of other fossil species. Arguing about ‘which is the biggest?’ based on a handful of skeletons really isn’t very meaningful,” Hone added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-true-size-of-t-rex">Understanding the true size of T. rex</h2>



The study provides new insights into the possible sizes of the T. rex and other dinosaurs, suggesting that the largest individuals were likely much bigger than those currently known.&nbsp;



By using computer modeling and considering various factors, the researchers have opened up new possibilities for understanding the true scale of these ancient giants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-body-sizes-of-fossil-species-nbsp">Body sizes of fossil species&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers noted that the findings serve as an important reminder that body size comparisons of fossil species should entail ontogenetically controlled statistical parameters (e.g., means and variances).&nbsp;



“Simply comparing the largest known individuals ignores the realities of intraspecific variation and sampling intensity, and is more likely to lead to claims that are debatable, if not outright misleading,” wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



“We maintain that the rigid pursuit to establish ‘which is biggest’ can distract from more interesting biological questions posed by the immensity of the non-avian dinosaurs.”



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



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h--0">-----</h3>

T. rex was about 70 percent bigger than we thought

A new study, published in the scientific journal Ecology and...

The world's largest living species of monitor lizard, the formidable Komodo dragon, has recently offered science another fascinating insight into its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeding-strategies-of-komodo-dragons-mimic-prehistoric-predators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deadly arsenal</a>. This time, it is not inside their venomous saliva, but rather in their teeth. 



Researchers from <a href="https://www.kcl.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">King’s College London</a>, led by Dr. Aaron LeBlanc, have discovered that the serrated edges of Komodo dragons’ teeth are actually tipped with iron.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-komodo-dragon-teeth">Komodo dragon teeth</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/how-big-do-komodo-dragons-get/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Komodo</a> dragons, hailing from Indonesia, are known for their predatory efficiency. They sport sharp, curved teeth that are reminiscent of many carnivorous dinosaurs and capable of tearing apart various types of meat.



Whether it's small reptiles and birds, or larger game like deer, horses, or water buffalo, nothing stands a chance against the ferocious bite of the Komodo dragon.



The research team found that many reptiles contain iron in their teeth. Still, the Komodo dragons have managed to concentrate this iron along the cutting edges and tips of their teeth, staining them with an identifiable orange hue.



This is a stark contrast to crocodiles and other monitor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-lizards-have-evolved-to-resist-deadly-snake-venom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lizards</a> where the iron presence is so small, it's virtually invisible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-concentrated-iron-coating">Concentrated iron coating</h2>



To delve deeper into this unexpected discovery, the team collected skulls and teeth of Komodo dragons from various museums. 



Also, they studied the teeth of Ganas, a 15-year-old Komodo dragon who had spent his life at ZSL conservation zoo, London Zoo. Using advanced imaging and chemical analysis, the researchers were able to understand the peculiar makeup of the lethal <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/komodo-dragon-varanus-komodoensis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Komodo</a> teeth. 



They found a concentrated iron coating on top of their tooth serrations and tips. This sturdy layer keeps the teeth sharp, ready to rip flesh apart at a moment’s notice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meat-eating-dinosaurs">Meat-eating dinosaurs </h2>



The implications of this research are far-reaching. The findings open up new queries and opportunities for studying how extinct species such as dinosaurs lived and hunted.



Dr. Aaron LeBlanc, the study's lead author and lecturer in Dental Biosciences at King’s College London, emphasized the plan to use this research to learn more about the lifestyles of carnivorous dinosaurs. However, he pointed out a crucial obstacle in their path.



According to Dr. LeBlanc, current technology is unable to identify whether fossilized dinosaur teeth contained high iron levels due to chemical alterations during the fossilization process.



What the researchers did find is that larger meat-eating dinosaurs, like tyrannosaurs, had altered the structure of their teeth.



Hence, they concluded that while Komodo dragons altered their teeth's chemistry, some dinosaurs changed their dental enamel structure to maintain a sharp cutting edge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-next-steps">The next steps</h2>



Dr. LeBlanc and his team hope that further analysis will uncover other markers in the iron coating unaffected by fossilization. Identifying these markers could confirm whether dinosaurs indeed had iron-coated teeth, dramatically enriching our understanding of these fearsome predators.



The Komodo dragon, despite its fascinating biology, faces serious threats to its survival including habitat loss, tourism, and poaching.



Conservation efforts led by organizations like the WWF focus on protecting their habitats and ensuring these ancient predators thrive through the establishment of protected areas and sustainable tourism practices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-the-komodo-dragon">Protecting the Komodo dragon</h2>



Educating the public about the Komodo dragon's ecological significance and the challenges it faces is crucial for its conservation. By fostering an appreciation for these unique reptiles, communities can be encouraged to participate in protective measures and support conservation initiatives.



Schools and institutions around the world can raise awareness about biodiversity. They can implement programs that showcase its importance. Apex predators like the Komodo dragon play a critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Educating others about this is essential.



Increased public engagement can lead to a collective effort to safeguard these extraordinary creatures and their habitats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-komodo-dragons">Understanding Komodo dragons </h2>



This fascinating discovery adds more depth to our understanding of these majestic creatures, aiding conservation efforts aimed at their protection.



“As the world’s largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-sea-lizard-khinjaria-had-teeth-like-daggers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lizards</a>, Komodo dragons are inarguably impressive animals. Having worked with them for 12 years at London Zoo, I continue to be fascinated by them and these findings further emphasize just how incredible they are," explained 



Study co-author Dr. Benjamin Tapley is Curator of Reptiles and Amphibians at ZSL.



“Komodo dragons are sadly endangered, so in addition to strengthening our understanding of how iconic dinosaurs might have lived, this discovery also helps us build a deeper understanding of these amazing reptiles as we work to protect them,” said Dr. Tapley.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-024-02477-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</a>.



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Komodo dragons have iron-tipped teeth to rip apart flesh

The world's largest living species of monitor lizard, the formidable...

A team of researchers has recently captured unprecedented footage of an endangered basking shark being struck by a boat off the coast of Ireland in April. This incident provided unique data on the impact of ship strikes on large marine animals. 



“This is the first ever direct observation of a ship strike on any marine megafauna that we’re aware of,” said study lead author Taylor Chapple, a shark researcher at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a> (OSU)'s Hatfield Marine Science Center. 



“The shark was struck while feeding on the surface of the water and it immediately swam to the seafloor into deeper, offshore waters, a stark contrast to its behavior prior to the strike. Our findings demonstrate the risk and impact of vessel strikes and the need for measures to reduce this risk.”



Unfortunately, researchers could not determine if the shark recovered, as the tag released itself seven hours later, showing no resumption of normal activities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-the-issue-of-ship-strikes">Addressing the issue of ship strikes</h2>



The study, published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.2024.1430961/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Marine Science</a>, highlights the importance of addressing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thousands-of-whales-are-killed-by-ship-strikes-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vessel strikes</a>, which pose significant risks to marine life. 



“Overlap between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-megafauna-extinctions-will-compromise-critical-ecosystem-services/">marine megafauna</a> and maritime activities has long been, and is increasingly, a topic of concern, especially given the increase in maritime traffic and the continued declines of some species. It has been demonstrated that phenomena such as the formation of ‘marine roads’ (i.e., shipping routes) pose significant risk to large surface-active marine megafauna,” wrote the study authors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-basking-sharks-feeding-habits-nbsp">Basking sharks’ feeding habits&nbsp;</h2>



Basking sharks, the second-largest known fish, are particularly vulnerable due to their surface feeding habits, similar to some whales. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jaws-of-most-shark-species-show-little-variation-over-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> are listed as globally endangered, and Ireland is a crucial aggregation site for them.



In 2022, basking sharks in Ireland gained protection under the country’s Wildlife Act. The establishment of Ireland’s first National Marine Park earlier this year, protecting 70,000 acres of land and sea in County Kerry, aims to safeguard these sharks.&nbsp;



Researchers conducted a study within the park's boundaries, tagging the basking shark to study its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nurse-sharks-have-surprisingly-flexible-foraging-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">foraging behavior</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ship-strikes-have-lasting-impacts-nbsp">Ship strikes have lasting impacts&nbsp;</h2>



After tagging, data showed the shark continued normal feeding for several hours, occasionally diving, until it made a quick evasive movement followed by the keel of a boat cutting across its back.&nbsp;



The shark then swam rapidly to the seafloor. Video footage revealed visible damage but no open wounds. Vessel strikes, even if non-lethal, can have lasting impacts on marine animals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vulnerability-of-basking-sharks-nbsp">Vulnerability of basking sharks&nbsp;</h2>



Nicholas Payne, co-author and assistant professor at <a href="https://www.tcd.ie/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trinity College Dublin</a>, stressed the vulnerability of basking sharks to boats due to their surface feeding behavior. 



“The fact that a shark we fitted our ‘Fitbit’ to was struck in this area within a few hours underlines just how vulnerable these animals are to boats and highlights the need for greater education in how to mitigate against such strikes.”&nbsp;



The incident underscores the need for greater education and measures to mitigate such strikes.



Further research is necessary to understand how often basking sharks occupy habitats where they are not visible at the surface.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-an-endangered-species-nbsp">Protecting an endangered species&nbsp;</h2>



Alexandra McInturf, a research associate in Chapple’s Big Fish Lab at OSU and co-coordinator of the <a href="https://www.baskingshark.ie/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Irish Basking Shark Group</a>, emphasized the critical need to study basking shark behavior in Ireland, one of the few places globally where they are still observed regularly. 



“This research raises additional questions about whether and how often the sharks are actually occupying such habitats when they are not clearly visible at the surface,” said McInturf.



“Given that Ireland is one of the only locations globally where basking sharks are still observed persistently, addressing such questions will be critical to informing not only our ecological understanding of the basking shark, but also the conservation of this globally endangered species.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marine-life-and-human-activities">Marine life and human activities</h2>



The incident highlights the pressing need for continued efforts to protect marine life from human activities and ensure the survival of endangered species like the basking shark.&nbsp;



The data gathered from this event provide crucial insights into the risks these animals face and underscore the necessity for protective measures to mitigate vessel strikes.&nbsp;



The findings also offer valuable information for future conservation strategies and reinforce the importance of ongoing research to better understand and protect marine megafauna.



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



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h--0">-----</h3>

Basking sharks are exceptionally vulnerable to ship strikes

A team of researchers has recently captured unprecedented footage of...

Ever marvel at the allure of butterflies and their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-learn-about-butterflies-day-an-enchanting-world-awaits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">enchanting markings</a>? Many of us are guilty of this, and as it turns out, our selective admiration of these fluttery butterflies can throw a curveball at scientists studying biodiversity data.



According to the latest findings by researchers at <a href="https://dornsife.usc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USC Dornsife</a>, butterfly data from citizen scientists is influenced by personal preferences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reporting-data-on-butterflies">Reporting data on butterflies</h2>



The study was carried out by scientists at the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences. The team found that on <a href="https://www.inaturalist.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iNaturalist</a>, a community science platform popular for recording nature sightings, butterflies with charming markings and recognizable features are reported more frequently.



Familiar species are also reported more often on the platform. By contrast, elusive species lacking distinct qualities are less frequently reported.



The person behind these insightful findings is Laura Melissa Guzman, a professor of biological sciences and quantitative and computational biology at USC Dornsife.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-biases-and-butterfly-data">Human biases and butterfly data</h2>



Interestingly, the tendency for humans to regard attractive people as intelligent, healthy, and trustworthy leaders seems to creep into the world of insects too.



This bias can misinform the data on such community science platforms, which many rely on for conservation decisions, generating scientific knowledge, and education.



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



Online platforms such as iNaturalist and eButterfly, both exceptionally popular among community scientists, allow nature enthusiasts to contribute data that aids scientists in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-butterfly-migration-sparked-by-a-surge-in-vegetation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tracking insect populations</a>. These platforms employ different methods for data collection. 



On iNaturalist, participants are encouraged to share photos for species verification. However, this method can exclude butterflies that are difficult to photograph. On the contrary, <a href="https://www.e-butterfly.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eButterfly</a> opts for a checklist, leading to a comprehensive account of all species observed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-reporting-biases">Consequences of reporting biases</h2>



The catch here is that biases introduced by the participants could lead to distorted data, which is a significant concern that the study addresses. 



Accurate estimation of species distributions, conservation priorities, and identifying population trends hinge on an understanding and accounting for these biases.



The user influence became evident when the researchers discovered that the method of relying on photos on iNaturalist favored easily photographed or interesting species. 



The platform experienced an over-reporting of species with captivating features - wing tails, checkered patterns, spots, eyespots, and stripes and under-reporting of species that were challenging to identify or those with light-colored markings on their wings. 



What's more, flight styles, height and other factors making butterflies hard to photograph may have also impacted the reporting patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-butterflies-and-biodiversity-data">Butterflies and biodiversity data</h2>



To substantiate their findings, the research team crunched some numbers where the results were quite telling. They found that 34 species were often underreported, and 53 were frequently overreported on iNaturalist compared to eButterfly. 



Overrepresented species were predominantly from the Nymphalidae family, which includes easily identifiable monarchs, and Lycaenidae, commonly known as gossamer-winged butterflies. 



In contrast, butterflies from the Pieridae family were the most underreported, thanks to their commonplace looks, often considered garden pests.



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



Understanding the biases in butterfly reporting has significant implications for conservation efforts. 



Conservationists rely heavily on community-sourced data to make informed decisions regarding habitat protection and species management. 



If certain species are consistently overreported while others are underrepresented, it could skew conservation priorities, leading resources to be allocated inefficiently. 



This misallocation might result in the neglect of less attractive yet ecologically important species, ultimately affecting biodiversity and ecosystem health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recommended-solutions">Recommended solutions</h2>



To mitigate the impact of these biases, researchers and naturalists propose several solutions. First, raising awareness among citizen scientists about the importance of reporting all species, regardless of their appearance, is vital. 



Educational campaigns could emphasise the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/butterflies-show-that-new-species-can-evolve-from-hybridization/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological value of every species</a>. Additionally, improving the data collection methods on platforms like iNaturalist to include more robust checklists, akin to those used by eButterfly, can lead to a more balanced dataset. 



Encouraging users to submit comprehensive surveys, rather than solely photographic evidence, may provide a clearer picture of local butterfly populations and their conservation needs.



The blend of biases and subjectivity in reporting prompted Guzman and her team to push for an overhaul in the way citizen science is carried out. While we all appreciate a dash of allure and charm, too much of it can steer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mystery-solved-when-butterflies-evolved-and-what-plants-they-used-for-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data</a> in a skewed direction. 



By improving the training for observers and raising awareness about biases, these platforms can yield more accurate results, bolstering our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eastern-monarch-butterfly-populations-have-plummeted-by-59-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">understanding and conservation</a> of these fascinating creatures of the insect world.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/fee.2783" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment</a>.



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People love pretty butterflies - and that complicates data for scientists

Ever marvel at the allure of butterflies and their enchanting...

Our dogs know when we are happy, sad, or even stressed. Yet, we always wondered: how do <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cracking-canine-cognitive-code-everyday-dog-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">they know</a>? Scientists at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a> might have found the answer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-dogs-smell-human-stress">Can dogs smell human stress?</h2>



Our story starts in a lab, led by Dr. Nicola Rooney, senior lecturer in wildlife and conservation at <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/vet-school/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bristol Veterinary School</a>. Together with her team, Dr. Rooney set out to explore an intriguing question: Can dogs smell human stress?



The Bristol Veterinary School researchers focused on how the smell of a stressed person might influence the emotions and choices of those around them. Humans, it turns out, subconsciously react to the smell of a stressed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-imitate-human-actions-from-2d-videos/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">individual</a>. But what about dogs?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-affects-dogs-emotions">Stress affects dogs' emotions</h2>



To test this theory, the research team enlisted the help of 18 dog-owner partnerships. The dogs were trained to associate a food bowl’s location with the presence or absence of a treat. Once they figured out this arrangement, the dogs were faster to approach the bowl location with a treat than an empty one.



The researchers then introduced an element of uncertainty: the bowl placed in new, ambiguous locations between the original two bowls. A quick approach meant the dogs were "optimistic" about the food's presence - a sign of a positive emotional state. A slow approach indicated 'pessimism' and negative emotion.



When the dogs were exposed to the smell of stress - human sweat and breath samples after an arithmetic test - they became slower to approach the ambiguous bowl location nearest the empty bowl's trained location.&nbsp;



This "pessimistic" response wasn't observed when dogs were exposed to relaxed smells - samples from humans listening to calming soundscapes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-the-sniff">Science behind the sniff</h2>



The findings suggest that the smell of human stress affects the dogs' expectation and decisions. "Understanding how human stress affects dogs' well-being is an important consideration for dogs in kennels and when training companion dogs and dogs for working roles such as assistance dogs," explained Dr. Rooney.



Indeed, this research shows that the odor of a stressed human, even an unfamiliar one, can affect a dog's emotional state, perception of rewards, and learning ability.



The stress smell seemed to make dogs act more cautiously, as if expecting disappointment. It might be a way for the dog to conserve energy and avoid potential unpleasant surprises.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-helping-our-canine-companions">Helping our canine companions</h2>



Interestingly, the team also noticed that dogs kept improving their understanding about the presence or absence of food based on the bowl locations. They even seemed to learn faster when the stress smell was present.



This research has the potential to change how we approach not only dog training, but also the care of rescue, therapy, and service dogs. Knowing that dogs can be sensitive to our stress through smell, we can manage our stress better for their sake, especially in high-stress environments.



Understanding the impact of human stress on our dogs not only enhances their training but also contributes to their overall well-being and happiness in everyday environments, allowing for deeper bonds between humans and canines.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-step-forward-in-canine-research">Step forward in canine research</h2>



Dr. Zoe Parr-Cortes, a PhD student at Bristol Veterinary School and primary researcher on the project, expressed her gratitude to everyone involved in the study, especially the participants and dog owners.



This research, while still in its initial stages, provides fascinating insights into dogs’ emotional states and decision-making processes. It offers a deeper understanding of our connection with them and how their perceptions of their environment are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-provide-insight-into-human-cognition-and-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influenced by us</a>.



The 18 dogs involved in this study ranged from eight months to ten years old and included an interesting mix of breeds. Eight of these dogs were registered as teaching dogs at the University of Bristol.



The study is the first step towards a better understanding of our unspoken bond with our dogs, opening up a new world of possibilities for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/medium-sized-dogs-have-a-greater-risk-of-developing-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">compassionate care</a> and effective training.



So, the next time you're stressed, remember: your dog might be sniffing it out. And who knows, a calm breath might just be what both you and your furry friend need.



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-66147-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Dogs can smell human stress and it makes them feel gloomy

Our dogs know when we are happy, sad, or even...

If you've ever found yourself on the edge of your seat during a gripping conversation, you know that there's a certain rhythm to it. This rhythm isn't unique to us humans. In fact, a fascinating study has unfolded a parallel universe where our closest evolutionary relatives, the chimpanzees, mirror our gestures in their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chimpanzees-and-bees-are-capable-of-complex-social-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conversational patterns</a>.



The study was led by Catherine Hobaiter from the <a href="https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of St Andrews</a>, UK, a scientist who spends her days in the captivating world of animal communication. She and her team have recently revealed how chimpanzees, much like us, take turns during their communicative interactions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gestures-in-chimpanzee-conversation">Gestures in chimpanzee conversation</h2>



“While human languages are incredibly diverse, a hallmark we all share is that our conversations are structured with fast-paced turns of just 200 milliseconds on average. But it was an open question whether this was uniquely human, or if other animals share this structure,” said Hobaiter.



To answer this, the researchers delved deep into the world of chimpanzee “conversations” across five wild communities in East Africa.



The team collected an impressive dataset of more than 8,500 gestures from 252 individual chimpanzees. They clocked their turns, studied their patterns, and what they found was truly fascinating.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chimpanzee-s-flow-of-gestures">Chimpanzee's flow of gestures</h2>



Turns out, 14% of the communications among these chimpanzees included a back-and-forth exchange of gestures. These gestural exchanges weren't limited to just two parts. Some engaged in a volley up to seven parts long. 



“We found that the timing of chimpanzee gesture and human conversational turn-taking is similar and very fast, which suggests that similar evolutionary mechanisms are driving these social, communicative interactions,” said study first author Gal Badihi.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peek-into-chimp-culture">Peek into chimp culture</h2>



There was a smattering of cultural diversity among these chimp communities. Some communities had rapid-fire exchanges, while others took a bit more time, reminiscent of cultural variances in human conversations. 



“In humans, it is the Danish who are ‘slower’ responders, and in Eastern chimpanzees that’s the Sonso community in Uganda,” noted Hobaiter



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shared-story-of-communication">Shared story of communication</h2>



Could these similarities point to a shared, ancestral mechanism? This intriguing possibility is being explored by the researchers. The underlying rules of face-to-face communication may straddle across the boundary that separates us from our chimp cousins.



“It shows that other social species don’t need language to engage in close-range communicative exchanges with quick response time,” said Badihi.



Are these patterns merely quirks of highly social species or an inherent trait of apes? That's a tantalizing question for future research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitive-foundation-of-communication">Cognitive foundation of communication </h2>



The implications of these findings stretch beyond mere observation; they invite a deeper exploration into the cognitive processes underlying communication. 



Understanding how chimpanzees structure their exchanges could provide insights into the evolution of language itself. 



As scientists like Hobaiter and Badihi investigate the nuances of these interactions, they also shed light on fundamental aspects of social cognition such as empathy, awareness, and the ability to engage in cooperative exchanges.



This knowledge could enhance our comprehension of both human and non-human communicative systems, bridging gaps in our understanding of intelligence <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-chimpanzee-day-celebrating-our-closest-cousins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">across species</a>.



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



The study of chimpanzee communication is far from exhaustive, and there are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chimpanzees-seek-medicinal-plants-when-theyre-sick-or-injured/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">myriad avenues</a> for future exploration. 



Researchers could investigate how environmental factors influence gesture exchanges, the impact of social hierarchy on communication patterns, or the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chimpanzees-continue-learning-as-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential for learning</a> new gestures within different communities. 



Additionally, studies could expand to include other primate species, enriching our understanding of the evolutionary lineage of communication. 



As the research progresses, it holds the promise of revealing more about the intricate tapestry of social interactions that bind both humans and their primate relatives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chimpanzee-gestures-in-conversations">Chimpanzee gestures in conversations</h2>



What compels a chimpanzee to "strike a conversation"? Is it to ask something, or merely to connect? The researchers are intent on unraveling the why and when of these conversational structures.



“We still don’t know when these conversational structures evolved, or why! To get at that question we need to explore communication in more distantly related species - so that we can work out if these are an ape-characteristic, or ones that we share with other highly social species, such as elephants or ravens," said Hobaiter.



Isn’t it fascinating how these seemingly simple forms of communication could be the building blocks of our complex linguistic structures?



And, who knows? The next time you're in the middle of a rapid-fire conversation, you might feel a delightful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mother-child-play-is-a-crucial-part-of-chimpanzee-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">connection with a chimpanzee</a> somewhere in East Africa!



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(24)00761-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Chimpanzees use rapid gestures in conversations like humans

If you've ever found yourself on the edge of your...

Dive into the fascinating world of fish, where survival and evolution interplay in such a riveting manner that you won't resist the urge to marvel at nature's ingenuity. You may have heard the saying “fish out of water," but it turns out that some fish don't mind being <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bizarre-fish-can-walk-and-thrive-on-land/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">out of water</a> for the sake of reproduction and survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-survival-of-the-fittest-fish-style">Survival of the fittest: Fish-style</h2>



Nature has a way of pushing boundaries and stretching limits, and our protagonists - the humble killifish - are a notable example of this rule. Adaptability is the name of the game in the fish world, and this story illustrates that fact.



Our tale traces back to research at <a href="https://www.uta.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The University of Texas at Arlington</a> by biology Professor Matthew Walsh and lab technician Christopher Roden. These experts of marine life dug into the evolutionary adaptability of fish, particularly focusing on how predators influence their reproductive habits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-killifish-reproduce-in-different-habitats">How killifish reproduce in different habitats</h2>



The killifish, rather inconspicuous in its 2-6 inch frame, is nature's poster child for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-evolution-takes-place-in-decades-not-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adaptability</a>. Found in the Caribbean's Trinidad Island, some types of killifish are known for their unique amphibious lifestyle, living on land to escape predators.



Walsh and Roden's research involved comparing how killifish reproduce in different habitats: some infested with predators and others that are predator-free. The team studied the intricacies of killifish nurseries, including where and how the eggs were laid and the hatching rates in water compared to on moist peat moss.



The differences in survival strategy were drastic. But the question was, could these changes occur quickly enough to counteract external pressures?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptation-the-hallmark-of-evolution">Adaptation: The hallmark of evolution</h2>



The findings of the research were just as intriguing as the experiment itself. Walsh and Roden found significant differences in egg-hatching plasticity among killifish from different habitats. 



Killifish adaptability paints a promising picture of how aquatic organisms might evolve to survive under ever-changing environmental conditions.



"We knew that fish who laid their eggs externally often adapted depending on the predators in the area, but we did not know how quickly species could change to these external pressures," noted Walsh.



The research also hints at the evolutionary future of these species in the face of external pressures like climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-killifish-reproduction-key-to-conservation">Killifish reproduction: Key to conservation</h2>



Understanding the remarkable adaptability of killifish has significant implications for conservation efforts in aquatic environments. 



As climate change and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oceans-are-quickly-losing-ability-to-support-fish-due-to-plankton-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat destruction</a> continue to threaten marine ecosystems, insights from this research can guide conservation strategies. 



By identifying which species exhibit the greatest flexibility in response to changes in their environment, conservationists can prioritize their protection and enhance restoration projects. 



Effectively managing the habitats that support these resilient species can ensure their survival while maintaining the biodiversity essential for healthy ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-picture-evolutionary-lessons">Broader picture: Evolutionary lessons</h2>



The story of the killifish serves as a compelling reminder of nature's relentless drive toward <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-evolution-and-biodiversity-is-shaped-by-river-erosion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a> and adaptation.



Across various species, the ability to adjust to changing conditions is crucial for survival. These evolutionary lessons extend beyond aquatic life; they resonate in terrestrial and aerial environments as well. 



As we face global challenges such as climate change and habitat fragmentation, the principles derived from studying adaptable species like the killifish can inform our understanding of resilience in ecosystems. 



Observing how these creatures navigate their survival inspires hope for the future and emphasizes the importance of safeguarding our planet's diverse life forms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-how-killifish-reproduce">Significance of how killifish reproduce</h2>



Why does it matter if fish change their egg-laying habits in response to predators? Think about it this way: these fishy survival strategies serve as the perfect illustration of nature's response to external pressures. This is science at its most practical and applicable - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smart-vest-made-for-fish-tracks-their-aquatic-lives-in-ways-never-before-seen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a living laboratory</a> of adaptability and resilience.



“Our study found striking differences in egg-hatching plasticity among killifish living in different habitats,” said Walsh. 



“This research provides new insights into how aquatic organisms adapt and evolve to changes in their environment. These findings may be particularly important in predicting how species are able to adapt to external pressures, such as those caused by climate change.”



We can glean key insights into not only the survival strategy of killifish but also how life, in general, can adapt and survive in the face of severe adversity.



So next time you think about fish, remember the humble killifish, an unsuspecting hero in the grand saga of evolution and survival. Because, as our research has shown, when the going gets tough, the tough get adaptable.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2024.0083" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a>.



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Fish find new ways to reproduce in response to predators

Dive into the fascinating world of fish, where survival and...

Jelly batteries are at the forefront of a technological revolution, promising to transform <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-creatures-of-the-past-inspire-the-future-of-soft-robots/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soft robotics</a>, wearable devices, and neurology with their unique properties and potential applications.



These innovative power sources, inspired by the natural world, offer a new approach to creating flexible, durable, and biocompatible electronics that could significantly impact various industries.



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



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electric-eels-can-genetically-modify-other-creatures-by-shocking-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Electric eels</a> have always captivated biologists through their unique ability to stun their prey using specialized cells known as electrocytes. 



These fascinating creatures have now spurred a remarkable scientific achievement, inspiring researchers to harness the principles of their natural electrical systems.



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> have found a way to mimic the layered structure of electrocytes and develop similar conductive, sticky, and stretchable materials, essentially creating "jelly batteries."



These innovative materials not only emulate the eel's natural abilities but also hold the potential to revolutionize a wide range of applications in electronics and bioengineering.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-breakthrough-in-material-science">A breakthrough in material science</h2>



In a revelation that combines stretchability and conductivity in a singular material for the first time, these jelly batteries could be stretched to over ten times their original length without affecting conductivity. 



The batteries are made from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-hydrogel-device-turns-hot-summer-air-into-drinkable-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrogels</a>, which are 3D networks of polymers that contain over 60% water, held together by reversible on/off interactions controlling their mechanical properties. 



The primary challenge was creating a material that was highly stretchable with conductive properties.



"It's difficult to design a material that is both highly stretchable and highly conductive, since those two properties are normally at odds with one another," explained first author Stephen O'Neill, an expert in Cambridge's Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry. "Typically, conductivity decreases when a material is stretched."



The solution came by charging these polymers, thus making them conductive. Additionally, the salt component in each gel could be altered to make them sticky and layer them, building up energy potential.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reshaping-the-future-of-electronics">Reshaping the future of electronics</h2>



This revolution in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fire-ants-can-teach-us-how-to-create-stronger-materials/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">material science</a> is a significant departure from the traditional, rigid metallic materials used in conventional electronics, which rely on electrons as charge carriers. By adopting a more flexible and adaptable approach, jelly batteries offer a novel solution that aligns more closely with the needs of modern, dynamic technologies.



Instead, these jelly batteries take a page out of nature's book, using ions to carry charge, emulating the natural electrical systems of electric eels. This ion-based conduction not only enhances flexibility but also opens up new possibilities for creating soft, stretchable, and resilient electronic devices.



The key to this innovation is the use of barrel-shaped molecules called cucurbiturils, which act as molecular handcuffs, forming reversible bonds between the different layers of the material. This unique adhesion mechanism allows the jelly batteries to stretch significantly without the layers separating or losing conductivity, maintaining their functionality and integrity even under stress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jelly-batteries-and-biomedical-implants">Jelly batteries and biomedical implants</h2>



With their softness and resilience, these hydrogel batteries hold immense promise for biomedical implants as they can be customized to match the mechanical properties of human tissue. 



Free from rigid components such as metal, hydrogel implants are less likely to be rejected by the body or induce scar tissue.



Moreover, these hydrogels are surprisingly tough, maintaining their form even when squashed, and able to self-heal when damaged.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-the-future-hold-for-jelly-batteries">What does the future hold for jelly batteries?</h2>



Expansion in this area of research is already planned, with tests on living organisms to evaluate their suitability for various medical applications. 



This work is being carried out by distinguished members from the Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry and the Department of Engineering at the University of Cambridge. 



The research was funded by the European Research Council and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).



The intersection of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harvesting-electricity-with-nature-inspired-techniques/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature</a> and technology has once again proven its potential to steer the future of tech and medical science, with jelly batteries promising to lead the charge in a new era of biocompatible and flexible electronics.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adn5142" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Electric eels inspire wearable tech with 'jelly batteries'

Jelly batteries are at the forefront of a technological revolution,...

We've all seen the heart-wrenching sight - a dog stumbling through familiar territories rendered unfamiliar by impending blindness. But, recent research brings good news to all dog-lovers. The <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> presents a ray of sunshine that could eliminate Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), a cause of inherited blindness in English Shepherds.



This commendable effort was spearheaded by researcher Katherine Stanbury affiliated with the University's <a href="https://www.vet.cam.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Veterinary Medicine</a>. 



"Once the dog's eyesight starts to fail, there’s no treatment - it will end up totally blind," stated Stanbury. However, with the revelation of a new DNA test, she envisions a future where no English Shepherd is born with this form of PRA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pra-mutation-causing-dog-blindness"> PRA mutation causing dog blindness</h2>



The PRA-causing mutation is recessive, leading to blindness only when a dog inherits two copies. If a dog is a carrier - having only one copy - it remains unaffected but can transfer the mutation to its offspring.



This DNA test could revolutionize breeders' decision-making processes, significantly reducing PRA's prevalence among English Shepherds.



Stanbury's team kicked off their investigation following their interaction with an English Shepherd owner whose dog, a former search and rescue member, was diagnosed with PRA. 



Through whole genome sequencing of DNA samples from both affected and unaffected dogs, the team successfully pinpointed the mutation responsible for PRA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fight-against-dog-blindness">Fight against dog blindness</h2>



The Cambridge research team currently operates a canine genetic testing service, offering PRA tests for English Shepherds at an affordable £48. 



Interestingly, this research may have far-reaching implications beyond canines. PRA shares similarities with retinitis pigmentosa in humans, a condition that also results in blindness. The team's findings could potentially inspire novel gene therapies to combat human disease.



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



“An owner won't necessarily notice their dog has got anything wrong with its eyes until it starts bumping into the furniture. Unlike humans who will speak up if their sight isn’t right, dogs just have to get on with things,” said Dr. Cathryn Mellersh, senior author of the report.



“For the price of a decent bag of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegan-diets-may-not-be-best-for-dogs-after-all/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dog food</a> people can now have their English Shepherd tested for Progressive Retinal Atrophy prior to breeding. 



"It’s about prevention, rather than a cure, and it means a huge amount to the people who breed these dogs. They no longer need to worry about whether the puppies are going to be <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/probiotics-help-overweight-dogs-shed-pounds/">healthy</a> or are going to develop this horrible disease in a few years’ time.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advocating-awareness-on-dog-blindness">Advocating awareness on dog blindness</h2>



With the exciting developments in PRA research, the focus now shifts towards increasing awareness within the wider dog-breeding community. The Cambridge team is actively engaging with dog shows, veterinary conferences, and breeding seminars to educate breeders and pet owners about the significance of genetic testing.



Dr. Mellersh emphasizes that "education is key to utilizing the tools at our disposal effectively" and encourages potential participants to understand their roles in eradicating genetically <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-neutering-linked-to-serious-health-risks-in-some-dog-breeds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inherited health issues</a>.



By fostering a collaborative effort among breeders, veterinarians, and dog owners, the dream of a PRA-free future for English Shepherds is more attainable than ever.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-at-the-bigger-picture">Looking at the bigger picture </h2>



With the discovery of this DNA test, we’ve stepped into uncharted territory. With 33 genetic mutations causing inherited diseases in dogs identified by the team so far, we are inching closer to a future reality where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-strong-link-between-dog-size-and-disease-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inherited diseases</a> in dogs are a thing of the past.



The work of this team at the University of Cambridge is not just changing lives, but it's also shaping our understanding of inherited diseases.



And while there's a kind of poignancy in knowing that many dogs' health has been compromised because of the way they've been <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-breeding-dogs-like-dachshunds-deserve-a-healthy-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bred by humans</a>, let’s also acknowledge that this discovery marks a turning point.



So, what can we do now to contribute? If you’re an English Shepherd owner, you could start by getting your dog tested. As for the rest of us? Let's keep spreading the word, raising awareness, and supporting the teams making this world a more dog-friendly place.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.3390/xxxxx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Genes</a>.



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Dog blindness can be avoided with affordable DNA testing

We've all seen the heart-wrenching sight - a dog stumbling...

Ever wondered how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-retinal-cells-explain-complex-color-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">one sense</a> can influence the other? Researchers from Anglia Ruskin University (<a href="https://www.aru.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ARU</a>) and University of East Anglia (<a href="https://www.uea.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UEA</a>) have discovered something, quite mystifying. People who <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blinking-plays-crucial-role-vision-human-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">suffer</a> vision loss in childhood struggle more than those who experience it later in life when it comes to accurately judging the location of a sound.



Led by Professor Shahina Pardhan, director of the Vision and Eye Research Institute at ARU, this pioneering study highlights how the two senses - sight and hearing - are interconnected in ways we never realized before.



Dr. Pardhan and her team's findings help us delve into the world of people with vision loss, shedding light on the challenges they face in their day-to-day lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vision-loss-and-sound-location">Vision loss and sound location</h2>



It appears that growing up with blurry sights or plunging into darkness at a tender age has its unique impact. The findings reveal that individuals who lose their vision before the age of 10 find it harder to judge the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spatial-hearing-how-humans-know-where-sounds-come-from/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">location of sounds</a>.



Imagine being asked to guess the source of a sound. Now think about those who have had partial vision loss during their childhood, for whom this is a part of their daily routine. Our study participants, 52 individuals all under the age of 33, were put to the test - and the results were intriguing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sound-and-vision-of-distance">Sound and vision of distance</h2>



The experiment involved 480 trials, spanning an hour and forty minutes, during which participants estimated the distance of each sound. The sounds, which varied among speech, music, and noise, were emitted from distances ranging from 1.2m to 13.8m away.



The results were revealing. Individuals with early-onset vision loss were more likely to overestimate the distance of sounds up to five meters away.



They perceived the sounds to be coming from farther away than they actually were. These findings reveal a complex relationship between vision loss and our perception of sound.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vision-of-sound-a-nuanced-perspective">Vision of sound: A nuanced perspective</h2>



On the other hand, later-onset vision loss did not significantly alter distance judgments when compared to the fully-sighted control group. 



This points towards how our sensory perception develops and adapts over time. The time frame of vision loss plays a distinct role in how we perceive our environment through our other senses.



According to Dr. Andrew Kolarik, co-author of the study from UEA’s <a href="https://www.uea.ac.uk/about/school-of-psychology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Psychology</a> and ARU’s <a href="https://www.aru.ac.uk/vision-and-eye-research-institute" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vision and Eye Research Institute</a>, the research shows that even partial vision loss can lead to changes in hearing abilities, especially if vision is lost early on in life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-this-mean">What does this mean?</h2>



How does this impact the everyday lives of individuals with early vision loss? Here's a simple example. Imagine trying to cross a road and being unable to accurately judge the distance of the sound of an approaching vehicle.



Professor Pardhan emphasized the importance of this study for the healthcare needs of people who suffered partial vision loss early in life, such as at birth or in childhood, who tend to be reliant on their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sounds-can-change-the-way-we-see-things/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other sensory abilities</a>.



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



Understanding the intricate relationship between vision loss and sound perception is crucial for developing support strategies. 



Future studies could explore additional sensory adaptations in individuals with various types of vision loss, offering deeper insights into their unique experiences and challenges.



Professionals in rehabilitation can tailor their approaches to address the specific challenges faced by individuals with early-onset vision loss. 



Encouraging engagement in exercises that enhance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soundwaves-can-be-used-to-move-objects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sound localization skills</a> may enable these individuals to navigate their environments more safely and confidently, ultimately improving their quality of life.



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



“These results suggest that people who suffer vision loss at birth or in early childhood are more likely to struggle to accurately judge the distance of close-range sounds," explained Professor Pardhan.



“This is the first study of its kind and is important when assessing the healthcare needs of people who suffered partial vision loss early in life, such as at birth or in childhood, who tend to be reliant on their other sensory abilities."



Professor Pardhan hopes the research will ultimately contribute to solutions to improve the lives of people with vision loss across the world.



That's just the tip of the iceberg. We are only just peeling the layers off this fascinating relationship between our senses. And while there is much more to uncover, one thing is certain - our senses are more interconnected than we ever thought possible. 



Isn’t it fascinating how the absence of one sense can influence our perception through the others?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.lww.com/optvissci/fulltext/2024/06000/effect_of_early_versus_late_onset_of_partial.15.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Optometry and Vision Science</a>.



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Vision loss in childhood also affects hearing

Ever wondered how one sense can influence the other? Researchers...

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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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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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

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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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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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 



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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



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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



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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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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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



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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



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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



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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



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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

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