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...

Imagine traveling back in time, around forty million years before dinosaurs roamed Earth. Picture an ancient predator: fierce, patient, and lurking in swampy waters. Meet Gaiasia jennyae, an ancient swamp creature with a skull oddly resembling a toilet seat.



Its hunting strategy involved lying in wait, with jaws wide open, ready to capture any <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/550-million-year-old-fossil-sponge-discovered-in-china/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creature</a>. This intriguing discovery adds a fascinating chapter to our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gigoutella-mauretanica-best-preserved-trilobite-fossils-ever-found/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prehistoric</a> life. 



What can we learn from such ancient predators, and how do they reshape our understanding of Earth's history?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giant-salamander-like-top-predator">Giant salamander-like top predator</h2>



Jason Pardo, an NSF postdoctoral fellow at the <a href="https://www.fieldmuseum.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Field Museum</a> in Chicago and co-lead author of the study, described the impressive characteristics of Gaiasia jennyae. 



He explained that this ancient creature was significantly larger than a human and likely inhabited the lower regions of swamps and lakes. 



Pardo vividly described its distinctive features, stating, "It's got a big, flat, toilet seat-shaped head, which allows it to open its mouth and suck in prey." 



He further emphasized the creature's formidable dentition, noting, "It has these huge fangs, the whole front of the mouth is just giant teeth. It’s a big predator, but potentially also a relatively slow ambush predator.”



Affectionately dubbed the swamp creature with a toilet seat-shaped head, Gaiasia jennyae is believed to have hung around the swamp and lake bottoms while silently preparing for its next ambush.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-gaiasia-jennyae-got-its-name">How Gaiasia jennyae got its name</h2>



The name Gaiasia jennyae commemorates the location where the fossils were discovered: the Gai-as Formation in Namibia. It pays tribute to renowned paleontologist, Jenny Clack, celebrated for her work on the evolution of early tetrapods.



The term 'tetrapod' denotes four-limbed vertebrates that evolved from lobe-finned fishes, which laid the foundation for the evolution of a wide variety of species, including amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/gaiasia-jennyae_giant-salamander-like_skeleton_credit-Marsicano_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/gaiasia-jennyae_giant-salamander-like_skeleton_credit-Marsicano_1s.jpg" alt="Skeleton of Gaiasia jennyae recently unearthed. Credit: Marsicano" class="wp-image-1938244"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Skeleton of Gaiasia jennyae recently unearthed. Credit: Marsicano</figcaption></figure>



“When we found this enormous specimen just lying on the outcrop as a giant concretion, it was really shocking. I knew just from seeing it that it was something completely different. We were all very excited,” said Marsicano. 



“After examining the skull,&nbsp; the structure of the front of the skull caught my attention. It&nbsp; was the only clearly visible part at that time, and it showed very unusually interlocking large fangs, creating a unique bite for early tetrapods.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-worlds-apart-worlds-together">Worlds apart, worlds together</h2>



Namibia of the present stands just north of South Africa. Around 300 million years ago, it was even further south, approximately on par with modern-day northern tips of Antarctica. 



The world was gradually coming out of an ice age. As swamps near the equator were drying up and turning into forests, the swampy ecosystem near the poles managed to survive, potentially amidst patches of ice and glaciers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creatures-before-gaiasia-jennyae">Creatures before Gaiasia jennyae</h2>



At such times of significant climatic transformation, animals were adapting to new forms of existence. 



Stem tetrapods, which are early four-legged vertebrates, started to diverge into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/500-million-year-old-trilobites-fossils-preserved-in-volcanic-ash/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lineages</a> that would eventually evolve into mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.



Meanwhile, in regions like what is now Namibia, ancient forms persisted. Holding on to their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ecosystem-behavior-earth-first-sea-creatures-stirring-water-drove-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lineage</a>, creatures like Gaiasia jennyae turned out to be a surprise.



Somehow tied to organisms believed to have gone extinct about 40 million years prior, Gaiasia jennyae's survival and dominance in its ecosystem as a primary predator were astonishing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cracking-the-permian-period-code">Cracking the Permian period code</h2>



Gaiasia jennyae is more than just a prehistoric creature - it's a key to unlocking the mysteries of the Permian period, enabling paleontologists to understand how the world evolved.



It suggests that the dynamics at the Equator differed significantly from those in the far south. This revelation is crucial because it may provide answers about the origins of various animal groups.



The discovery of this ancient predator suggests the existence of a thriving ecosystem, capable of nurturing such large predators. 



"The more we look, we might find more answers about these major animal groups that we care about, like the ancestors of mammals and modern reptiles." concludes Pardo.



Who knows what other secrets of evolution lie <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/470-million-year-old-animal-fossils-discovered-in-frances-cabrieres-biota/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">buried</a>, awaiting their own time in the sun? 



The quest for knowledge is far from over, and each new discovery brings us closer to understanding our world's wondrous past.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07572-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Giant salamander-like beast was a top predator before the dinosaurs

Imagine traveling back in time, around forty million years before...

Ongoing research into the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/offshore-wind-farms-can-harm-marine-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">offshore wind farm</a> electromagnetic fields (EMFs) on shark development reveals that alternating electric currents produced by underwater wind farm cables seem not to disrupt the growth or survival of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-sharks-live-up-to-500-years-whats-their-secret/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a>.



Offshore wind farms are one of the most common marine renewable energy (MRE) producers and are seen as pivotal in the global transition towards <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/renewable-energy-must-be-doubled-by-2030/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">renewable energy</a>, moving away from fossil fuels that contribute to climate change. 



However, their proliferation in marine environments raises questions about their impacts on wildlife. Researchers and energy operators are working together to understand these effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wind-farms-and-sharks">Wind farms and sharks</h2>



“Wind farms can induce noise, vibrations, interruptions to ecological continuity, and generate electromagnetic fields at the level of submarine electric cable,” said Julie Lucas, a research associate at France's <a href="https://www.mnhn.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Museum of Natural History</a>. 



“They can affect the behavior of electro-sensitive species which use natural electromagnetic fields to move and feed, such as sharks.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-submarine-electric-cables">Submarine electric cables</h2>



These offshore wind farms rely on submarine electric cables (CES) that use either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC), depending on their function, power output, and cable length.&nbsp;



“Currently, wind farms located less than 50km from the coast use AC current, whereas more powerful future wind farms are planned to be located more than 50 km away and will use DC current,” Lucas said.



Both AC and DC currents produce strong magnetic fields in the water surrounding them. “These magnetic fields can affect the behavior of electro- and magneto-sensitive species such as elasmobranchs, which use natural electromagnetic fields to move and feed,” she explained.&nbsp;



“The increasing number of offshore wind farms is likely to amplify these effects, while existing information on their impact on marine communities remains patchy.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-impacts-of-offshore-wind-farms">Potential impacts of offshore wind farms</h2>



The experts aimed to identify the effects of the magnetic fields caused by AC and DC currents on the survival, development, and behavior of sharks and other electro-sensitive elasmobranchs.&nbsp;



The team studied two key life stages of the small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicular), embryo and juvenile, under either control or wind farm-impacted conditions using AC or DC currents. They recorded daily survival, weekly development and growth, and metabolic rate through respirometry for both life stages.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-sharks-respond-to-wind-farms">How sharks respond to wind farms</h2>



“Thankfully, preliminary results suggest that the impact of alternating electromagnetic fields seems to be limited to the factors that we have measured,” Lucas said. However, the full results are still being analyzed and the effects of DC current will be investigated later this year.



“The results of this project will make it possible to understand more precisely how sharks react to electromagnetic fields depending on their intensity and the type of current. They will also improve our knowledge of the impacts of MREs on marine species.”



Lucas hopes that this research can help inform policy to protect marine species and determine what improvements can be made to CES to continue limiting their impact.&nbsp;



“This project will provide essential information for managers and decision-makers to meet the challenges of developing MREs without harming <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-biodiversity-could-shift-rapidly-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine biodiversity</a>,” she concluded.



This study is presented at the <a href="https://www.rsb.org.uk/events?event=sebannualconferenceprague2024#:~:text=The%20Society%20for%20Experimental%20Biology's,from%202-5%20July%202024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Society for Experimental Biology Annual Conference in Prague </a>from July 2-5, 2024.



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Offshore wind farms threaten electro-sensitive sharks

Ongoing research into the impact of offshore wind farm electromagnetic...

Solar energy, a clean and renewable source that could potentially power our entire planet, is yet to be fully exploited due to the challenges surrounding its efficiency. But if we think we've exhausted all research avenues for enhancing solar power efficiency, we couldn't be more wrong.



In a new study led by <a href="https://www.yale.edu/">Yale University</a>, experts suggest that the solution to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/suns-fury-secrets-of-solar-energy-storms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar energy</a> efficiency may lie beneath the tropical coral reefs.



Stepping away from conventional thinking, giant clams possess what could be the most efficient solar energy systems found on Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-energy-conversion">Solar energy conversion </h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-increase-the-value-of-solar-panels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Solar panel</a> and biorefinery designers could learn a thing or two from iridescent giant clams living near tropical coral reefs, according to the researchers.



"It's counter-intuitive to a lot of people, because clams operate in intense sunlight, but actually they're really dark on the inside," said Alison Sweeney, associate professor of physics and of ecology and evolutionary biology in <a href="https://fas.yale.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yale’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences</a>. 



"The truth is that clams are more efficient at solar energy conversion than any existing solar panel technology.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-efficiency-of-giant-clams">Understanding the efficiency of giant clams</h2>



Giant clams boast precise geometry with dynamic, vertical columns of photosynthetic receptors covered by a thin, light-scattering layer.



In a recently published study, the research team presents an analytical model for determining the maximum efficiency of photosynthetic systems based on the geometry, movement, and light-scattering characteristics of giant clams.



It is the latest in a series of research studies from Sweeney’s lab that highlight biological mechanisms from the natural world that could inspire new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-inspires-solutions-for-a-sustainable-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable materials</a> and designs.



The researchers specifically focused on the impressive solar energy potential of iridescent giant clams that inhabit the shallow waters of Palau in the Western Pacific. 



The clams’ unique adaptation involves vertical cylinders of single-celled algae growing on their surface, which effectively absorb sunlight after it’s scattered by a layer of cells called iridocytes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symbiosis-at-its-best">Symbiosis at its best</h2>



The way the clams function is both captivating and insightful. The setup of algae in vertical columns, parallel to the incoming light, enables the algae to absorb sunlight at the most efficient rate. 



This process is facilitated by the scattering of light by the iridocytes, which ensures uniform distribution around each vertical algae cylinder.



Based on the giant clams’ geometry, Sweeney and her colleagues developed a model to calculate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tapping-into-the-natural-power-of-plants-for-renewable-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum efficiency</a> - the ability to convert photons into electrons. 



The researchers also factored in fluctuations in sunlight, based on a typical day in the tropics with a sunrise, midday sun intensity, and sunset. The quantum efficiency was 42%.



But then the researchers added a new wrinkle: the way giant clams stretch themselves in reaction to changes in sunlight. 



“Clams like to move and groove throughout the day,” Sweeney said. “This stretching moves the vertical columns farther apart, effectively making them shorter and wider.” 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-efficiency-of-giant-clams">Quantum efficiency of giant clams</h2>



With this new information, the clam model’s quantum efficiency jumped to 67%. By comparison, Sweeney said, a green leaf system’s quantum efficiency in a tropical environment is only about 14%.



According to the researchers, an intriguing comparison would be northern spruce forests. 



These boreal spruce forests, surrounded by fluctuating layers of fog and clouds, share similar geometries and light-scattering mechanisms with giant clams, but on a much larger scale, and their quantum efficiency is nearly identical.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-and-solar-efficiency">Biodiversity and solar efficiency</h2>



“One lesson from this is how important it is to consider biodiversity, writ large,” Sweeney said. “My colleagues and I continue to brainstorm about where else on Earth this level of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/growing-crops-at-solar-farms-increases-panel-efficiency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar efficiency</a> might happen. It is also important to recognize we can only study biodiversity in places where it is maintained.”



“We owe a major debt to Palauans, who put vital cultural value on their clams and reefs and work to keep them in pristine health."



Such examples may offer inspiration and insights for more efficient sustainable energy technology.



“One could envision a new generation of solar panels that grow algae, or inexpensive plastic solar panels that are made out of a stretchy material,” said Sweeney.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.aps.org/prxenergy/abstract/10.1103/PRXEnergy.3.023014" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PRX Energy</a>



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Giant clams may be the most efficient solar energy systems on Earth

Solar energy, a clean and renewable source that could potentially...

Isn't there something enticing about the thought of longevity? What if we might be closer to understanding some secrets of long life, taking cues not from myths and legends, but from an ancient ocean dweller like the Greenland shark?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-the-ancient-titans-of-the-deep">Meet the ancient titans of the deep</h2>



The gentle giants Greenland sharks (Somniosus microcephalus) boast a lifespan of 270 years at the very least, with tales suggesting they might live beyond 500 years.



Ewan Camplisson, a curious PhD student from the <a href="https://www.manchester.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Manchester</a>, sparked the spotlight on this ancient behemoth's fascinating life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greenland-shark-s-code-of-longevity">Greenland shark's code of longevity</h2>



Earlier, scientists believed the Greenland shark's glacial surroundings and minimal movements might hold the key to its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/germ-cells-play-a-crucial-role-in-aging-and-lifespan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life's lengthy timeline</a>.



But Mr. Camplisson and his team debunked this theory and delved deeper. They believed the tale of this majestic marine's lifespan was more entangled with complex metabolic adaptations than earlier proposed.



"Most species show variation in their metabolism as they age. We want to determine if Greenland sharks also show this traditional sign of aging, or are they playing by a different rulebook?" Mr. Camplisson shared their idea.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inside-greenland-sharks-ageless-muscles">Inside Greenland sharks' ageless muscles</h2>



To untangle this mystery, the team conducted enzyme assays on preserved Greenland shark muscle tissues. 



They used a spectrophotometer, a light-measuring tool, to track the metabolic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shark-embryo-mortality-could-rise-by-71-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">activity in sharks</a> of varying ages and environmental temperatures.



What they uncovered was nothing short of astonishing. There was no significant variation in muscle metabolic activity across different ages, hinting that their metabolism does not seem to wane over time. 



"This is quite different to most animals which tend to show some variation in their metabolic enzyme activity as they age,” he says. 



“The results support our hypothesis that the Greenland shark does not show the same traditional signs of aging as other animals.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-temperature-in-metabolism">Role of temperature in metabolism</h2>



The subtle plot twist in the study was the observation that metabolic enzymes exhibit significantly higher activity at elevated temperatures.



“This would suggest that the shark’s red muscle metabolism is not specially adapted for the polar environment, otherwise we would have expected to see less of a temperature related difference in activity,” says Mr Camplisson.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-greenland-shark-s-conservation">Implications for Greenland shark's conservation</h2>



Species as enigmatic and ancient as Greenland sharks may face dire straits in our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-sharks-survived-a-drastic-spike-in-global-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rapidly changing climate</a>. 



They may not mature sexually until they’re 150 years old, and with such a long generation time, their chances to adapt to human-induced environmental shifts could be pretty slim. 



Camplisson voices his concern for these elder residents of our oceans, highlighting the critical role they play in marine ecosystems. 



He strongly advocates for their protection, emphasizing the need for urgent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shark-diversity-hits-66-million-year-low/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation measures</a> to ensure their survival for future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-epigenetics-and-beyond">Epigenetics and beyond</h2>



While genetics provides the foundational script, the emerging <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/what-is-epigenetics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">field of epigenetics</a> looks at how environmental factors influence gene expression over an organism's lifetime.



This dynamic interplay between genes and the environment could shed light on how Greenland sharks maintain their health across centuries. 



By studying epigenetic markers, researchers aim to decipher how these sharks mitigate the effects of oxidative stress and other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-aging-discovered-in-plant-leaves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging processes</a>.



The Greenland shark offers a living model to explore how life at extreme latitudes can shape the epigenome in ways we never anticipated. 



As we unravel these intricate layers, the Greenland shark continues to inspire awe, bridging the gap between marine biology and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harvard-scientists-fountain-of-youth-pill-sparks-controversy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human aging research</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leap-towards-human-cardiovascular-health">Leap towards human cardiovascular health</h2>



Not only do these revelations help us protect precious species, but they also have potential implications for human health. 



Mr. Camplisson's interest extends towards how studying the Greenland shark heart could inform our understanding of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-worsens-cardiovascular-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular health</a>, particularly as we age.



By unweaving these astounding marine mysteries, we open doors to not only preserving immeasurable biodiversity but also improving human health. 



So the next time you think of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pigs-slow-growth-diet-increases-longevity-productivity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anti-aging secrets</a>, look beyond fancy creams and serums. The secrets might just be swimming beneath the icy Arctic expanse, within the formidable yet fascinating Greenland sharks.



The scientific findings are to be showcased at the <a href="https://www.sebiology.org/events/seb-conference-prague-2024.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Society for Experimental Biology Annual Conference in Prague,</a> July 2024.



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Greenland sharks live up to 500 years, but what's their secret?

Isn't there something enticing about the thought of longevity? What...

Cats,Scratch,Furniture,,Scratch,At,The,Corner,Of,The,Couch

Are your prized pieces of furniture getting an unwanted feline manicure? The headache of cats treating our plush <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wood-surfaces-can-naturally-reduce-virus-transmission/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">couches</a> and ornate rugs as their personal claw-sharpening and scratching stations is a shared experience among cat owners worldwide.



But what if you could redirect your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/would-you-trust-a-robot-to-look-after-your-cat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kitty's</a> urge to scratch from your furniture to more suitable outlets?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cats-scratching-the-surface">Cats scratching the surface</h2>



Dr. Yasemin Salgirli Demirbas, a veterinary researcher from <a href="https://www.ankara.edu.tr/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ankara University</a>, along with a team of international experts, decided to take a closer look our feline friends' scratching habits.



Their findings shed light on a question plaguing cat owners for ages: why do cats scratch furniture and how can we redirect this behavior?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-behind-cats-scratching-behavior">Factors behind cats scratching behavior</h2>



Through a comprehensive survey involving more than 1200 cat owners in France, the research team uncovered some surprising factors that influence your feline's scratching behavior. 



Demirbas and her team discovered a clear link between your cat's environment, personality traits, and increased scratching behavior.



“Here we show that certain factors – such as the presence of children at home, personality traits of cats, and their activity levels – significantly impact the extent of scratching behavior,” said Demi̇rbas.



“Our findings can help caregivers manage and redirect scratching to appropriate materials, which could help foster a more harmonious living environment for both cats and their caregivers.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-leads-to-unwanted-cat-scratching">Stress leads to unwanted cat scratching</h2>



The authors found that stress serves as a key driver of unwanted scratching in cats. When cats engage in prolonged <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cats-have-a-better-quality-of-life-if-you-play-with-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">play sessions</a>, they may experience elevated stress levels due to continuous stimulation and excitement. 



This heightened stress can manifest in excessive scratching behavior. It turns out playfulness, while generally beneficial, can have a flip side, leading to a flurry of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cats-mentally-track-their-owners-whereabouts-based-on-sound/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feline</a> scratches on your beloved furnishings. 



“We see a clear link between certain environmental and behavioral factors and increased scratching behavior in cats,” Salgirli Demirbas explained. 



“Specifically, the presence of children in the home as well as high levels of play and nocturnal activity significantly contribute to increased scratching. Cats described as aggressive or disruptive also exhibited higher levels of scratching.”



Understanding this can help cat owners better manage their pets' playtime and stress levels to protect their furniture.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-placing-scratch-posts-and-pheromones">Placing scratch posts and pheromones</h2>



It's not all doom and gloom, though. The researchers suggest some practical changes that can significantly alter where and why your cat scratches.



Creating an engaging and stimulating environment is crucial for feline well-being and can play a significant role in managing scratching behavior.



For starters, place scratch posts in areas frequently visited by your cat. Position them near your cat's favorite lounging spot. 



Make sure the scratch posts are sturdy and tall enough for your cat to fully stretch out. This will make the posts more appealing to your cat.



Using specific feline pheromones can create a calming environment. These pheromones can deter your furry friend from clawing at your couch. 



Additionally, regularly trimming your cat's nails can help. Providing a variety of textures for scratching can further reduce unwanted scratching behaviors.



“Understanding the underlying emotional motivations of scratching behavior, such as frustration, which seem to be linked to personality traits and environmental factors, allows caregivers to address these issues directly,” said Demirbas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hunting-games">Hunting games</h2>



The key to a happier, scratch-free household lies in mimicking successful hunting scenarios through several short play sessions. 



These moments not only keep your cat's interest piqued but also help curb stress. Plus, they serve to enhance the bond between you and your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cats-mentally-track-their-owners-whereabouts-based-on-sound/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feline</a> buddy.



Additionally, redirecting your cat's attention immediately when they scratch inappropriately can teach them the boundaries of acceptable behavior. 



Training not only helps in managing scratching habits but also strengthens the bond between you and your cat, promoting a harmonious living environment.



Though the study relied on owner-reported data, it still provides valuable insights. It helps in understanding feline scratching behavior better. This knowledge paves the way for more effective management strategies in the future.



So, here's to a future of peaceful cohabitation, with happier cats and scratch-free sofas.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2024.1403068/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Veterinary Science</a>.



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Scientists learn how to stop cats from scratching the furniture

Are your prized pieces of furniture getting an unwanted feline...

Untitled design - 1

Do you ever wonder how your pet understands what you're going through? An intriguing study conducted in Budapest has given us some answers about how animals like dogs and pigs respond to human sounds.



This research, led by Fanni Lehoczki and Paula Pérez Fraga from the Neuroethology of Communication Lab at <a href="https://ethology.elte.hu/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ELTE Department of Ethology</a>, reveals how animals react to our emotional vocalizations, offering fascinating insights into the depth of interspecies empathy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-empathy-of-dogs-and-pigs-towards-humans">Empathy of dogs and pigs towards humans</h2>



Researchers carried out this study on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-dog-day-celebrating-all-the-ways-that-dogs-make-life-better/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">companion dogs</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-pig-day-honoring-the-role-of-an-underappreciated-animal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">miniature pigs</a>, two popular pets found in homes around the world. 



They focused on how these animals would respond to different types of human vocalizations, specifically human humming and crying.



Now, you might wonder, why these two sounds? Well, our tears, more often than not, signify distress and sadness. 



On the other hand, humming doesn't usually signal any particular emotion but is relatively unusual.



According to the research, dogs and pigs were able to distinguish between these two human sounds. However, their reactions were noticeably different.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-reflect-human-feelings">Dogs reflect human feelings</h2>



If you've ever felt like your dog can sense your sadness, you just might be right. The study found that dogs <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-imitate-human-actions-from-2d-videos/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mirrored their emotional state</a> to the one they perceived in the human vocalization they heard. 



For instance, upon hearing crying, our canine friends demonstrated behaviors indicative of a high-arousal and negative state, reinforcing the idea that pets can pick up on our feelings.



This phenomenon, known as 'emotional contagion', affirms the deep emotional bond between humans and dogs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pigs-react-to-unusual-human-sounds">Pigs react to unusual human sounds</h2>



On the other side of the coin, our piggy pals reacted more to the unusual sound of humming. Pigs, unlike dogs, exhibited behaviors showing stress in response to the humming sound.



It seems the unfamiliar noise caught the pigs' attention more, suggesting they might find such uncommon sounds stressful or confusing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-domestication-and-emotional-contagion">Domestication and emotional contagion</h2>



These findings bowled over researchers by suggesting domestication processes might influence animals' responses to human emotions -- with dogs, for instance, being bred for their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-explores-the-mystery-of-why-dogs-wag-their-tails/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dependency on humans</a>. 



This, in turn, might have led to dogs being more sensitive to our emotional states.



"While we cannot exclude that pigs also experienced emotional contagion when listening to human crying, one explanation for their reaction might be that humming is highly unusual, and surprising sounds stress out pigs more than human sadness," Paula Pérez Fraga stresses.



The study hints that understanding certain human sounds may be more challenging for some domestic animals. However, additional research involving physiological measurements is required to confirm these findings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-emotions">Evolution of emotions</h2>



The study delves deeper into the evolutionary pathways that have led to the emotional sensitivity observed in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-foxes-can-be-domesticated-thanks-to-breeding/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">domesticated animals</a>.



Historically, the process of domestication in dogs and pigs has selected for traits beneficial to humans, including the capacity to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-learn-better-with-praise-and-petting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">connect emotionally</a>. 



Dogs, being one of the first domesticated animals, have had a long socio-evolutionary history of coexisting with humans.



This prolonged association could have naturally selected for emotional attunement in dogs, enabling them to respond empathetically to human cues. 



Thus, their ability to mirror human emotions may be an evolved trait fostering better human-animal relationships.



Pigs, on the other hand, have had a relatively shorter domestication timeline, primarily driven by agricultural purposes rather than companionship. 



This difference in domestication trajectories might explain the varied <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-provide-insight-into-human-cognition-and-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">responses</a> to human emotional vocalizations observed in the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-interaction-between-humans-dogs-and-pigs">Implications for interaction between humans, dogs and pigs</h2>



The insights gleaned from this research hold substantial implications for how we interact with our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-and-their-humans-often-share-similar-personalities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pets</a> and other domesticated animals. 



Understanding that animals like dogs and pigs can perceive and react to our emotional states invites a more empathetic approach to their care and well-being. 



For dog owners, recognizing that their pets might absorb and reflect their emotional turmoil suggests the need to maintain a positive environment to ensure mutual emotional health. 



For pig owners, especially those engaging in farming or therapy animal roles, acknowledging their propensity to stress from unusual sounds can enhance animal welfare practices. 



Overall, this study underscores the importance of emotional intelligence in fostering healthy human-animal bonds, potentially paving the way for more nuanced and supportive approaches to pet care and domestication.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0003347224001465?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Animal Behaviour</a>.



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Human emotions evoke different responses in dogs and pigs

Do you ever wonder how your pet understands what you're...

New research has revealed how the unique internal anatomy of the helmeted hornbill’s casque helps it withstand damage during aerial jousting battles. This understanding may aid in conserving this critically endangered <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/observing-birds-in-nature-can-help-protect-them-in-captivity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> and developing impact-resistant materials.



“When I started in Hong Kong, I visited <a href="https://www.cityu.edu.hk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">City University of Hong Kong</a> (CityU)’s conservation forensics group to chat about their research and they introduced me to this amazing bird, to its bizarre cranial anatomy, and to the threats posed to the species by the illegal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-sunscreens-lose-effectiveness-and-become-harmful/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife trade</a>,” said Mason Dean, an associate professor of comparative anatomy at CityU.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-unique-headgear-of-the-helmeted-hornbill">The unique headgear of the helmeted hornbill</h2>



The helmeted hornbill is targeted in the illegal wildlife trade for its distinctive casque. While casques are common among hornbills, their function varies by species. In the helmeted hornbill, the casque has a thick keratin layer and a dense network of bone.&nbsp;



“As I learned more about this species, I discovered a cross-section of a dried skull in a museum, revealing a shocking trainwreck of trabeculae in the casque,” Dean said. “When I heard that individuals are known to ram their casques together in mid-air displays, I just had to know more about the functional morphology.”



Trabeculae are inter-connected struts inside bones that provide strength and resistance to buckling. “Understanding hornbill anatomy and how it allows for this jousting behavior can therefore give us clues about this elusive animal’s ecology and fundamental aspects of its life history and health,” Dean explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skull-support-during-high-impact-collisions-nbsp">Skull support during high-impact collisions&nbsp;</h2>



The study revealed that the casque’s dense trabeculae support the structure during high-impact collisions. The team used microCT to analyze the casque’s internal structure.&nbsp;



“We have been focused on understanding the hierarchical architectures of the skull, uniting biology, materials science, and engineering techniques,” Dean said.



“We’ve been able to get a detailed and quantitative picture of how the casque is constructed, how the bone interacts with the keratin, and the intricate latticework of bone trabeculae supporting the skull’s impact surface.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-anatomy-of-the-helmeted-hornbill">Surprising anatomy of the helmeted hornbill</h2>



The team found that the hornbill’s trabeculae were as thick as those in an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-elephant-day-understanding-celebrating-and-protecting-earths-gentle-giants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephant</a>’s femur, despite the hornbill being much smaller. 



“I’ve used microCT to look at a big diversity of animal skeletons, but I have never seen bony trabeculae like the ones we’ve found in the hornbill,” Dean added.



The findings also show that the casque’s trabeculae channel back to the braincase, providing additional reinforcement.&nbsp;



“That massive stand of trabeculae then channels back to the braincase, like a bundle of banyan tree prop roots, converging on a bony platform that’s far more reinforced than in other hornbills and relatives we’ve looked at.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-increased-awareness-nbsp">Need for increased awareness&nbsp;</h2>



Illegal wildlife trade has driven the helmeted hornbill to become critically endangered.&nbsp;



“The helmeted hornbill is one of the largest hornbill species in Asia, with the keratin fronting its casque historically a target for the art and antique market for carving into ornamental wildlife products,” Dean explained. “A large number of our skull specimens still contained the bullets that had likely killed the animal.”



“Since the species is elusive and hard to observe in the wild, there is a great need to improve knowledge of its biology, to preserve its habitat, protect dwindling wild populations, and to develop better tools to ID wildlife products.”&nbsp;



“We hope projects like ours contribute to an understanding of species’ natural history and raise public awareness of the challenges facing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-biodiversity-crisis-is-actually-worse-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> loss, while also ideally showing scientists that steps toward conservation need not solely come from conservation biologists!,” he concluded.



This study will be presented at the <a href="https://www.rsb.org.uk/events?event=sebannualconferenceprague2024#:~:text=The%20Society%20for%20Experimental%20Biology's,from%202-5%20July%202024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Society for Experimental Biology Annual Conference in Prague</a> on July 2-5, 2024.



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The helmeted hornbill can withstand high-impact collisions

New research has revealed how the unique internal anatomy of...

A team of international researchers has recently identified the unique nanostructures responsible for the electric blue spots on the bluespotted ribbontail <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-rays-were-more-diverse-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ray</a> (Taeniura lymma), which could inspire chemical-free color production. 



Additionally, they are also investigating the blue coloration of the blue shark (Prionace glauca).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysterious-colors-of-the-ribbontail-ray">Mysterious colors of the ribbontail ray</h2>



Skin <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-animals-got-their-complex-color-patterns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coloration</a> is crucial for communication in organisms, offering visual cues for warning, attraction, or camouflage. While the bluespotted ribbontail ray is known for its vivid blue spots, the biological processes behind these spots were previously unknown.



“Understanding animal structural color is not just about optical physics but also the materials involved, how they’re finely organized in the tissue, and how the color looks in the animal’s environment,” said senior author Mason Dean, an associate professor of comparative anatomy at the <a href="https://www.cityu.edu.hk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">City University of Hong Kong</a> (CityU).



“To draw all those pieces together, we assembled a great team of disciplines from multiple countries, ending up with a surprising and fun solution to the stingray color puzzle.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extremely-rare-blue-coloration-nbsp">Extremely rare blue coloration&nbsp;</h2>



Dean noted that if you see blue in nature, you can almost be sure that it’s made by tissue nanostructures, not pigment. These structural colors are created by nanoscale structures that manipulate light.&nbsp;



“Blue colors are especially interesting because blue pigments are extremely rare, and nature often uses nanoscale structures to make blue,” said Viktoriia Kamska, a postdoc studying natural coloration mechanisms at CityU.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fine-scale-architecture-of-the-skin-nbsp">Fine-scale architecture of the skin&nbsp;</h2>



The scientists utilized various techniques to analyze skin architecture under natural conditions. “To understand the fine-scale architecture of the skin, we used microcomputed tomography (micro-CT), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM),” Dean said.&nbsp;



The analyses revealed that the blue color arises from unique skin cells with a stable 3D arrangement of nanoscale spheres containing reflecting nanocrystals.&nbsp;



“Because the size of the nanostructures and their spacing are a useful multiple of the wavelength of blue light, they tend to reflect blue wavelengths specifically,” said Amar Surapaneni, a postdoc in Dean’s group.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bright-blue-skin-of-the-ribbontail-ray-nbsp">Bright blue skin of the ribbontail ray&nbsp;</h2>



The “quasi-ordered” arrangement of these spheres ensures the color remains unchanged when viewed from different angles.&nbsp;



“To clean up any extraneous colors, a thick layer of melanin underneath the color-producing cells absorbs all other colors, resulting in extremely bright blue skin. In the end, the two cell types are a great collaboration: the structural color cells hone in on the blue color, while the melanin pigment cells suppress other wavelengths, resulting in extremely bright blue skin,” Dean explained.



This coloration likely offers <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-pandas-have-the-perfect-camouflage-for-their-natural-habitat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">camouflage</a> benefits. “In water, blue penetrates deeper than any other color, helping animals blend with their surroundings. Bright blue skin spots of stingrays do not change with viewing angle; therefore, they might have specific advantages in camouflage as the animal is swimming or quickly maneuvering with undulating wings,” he added.



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



The researchers are exploring applications for bio-inspired, pigment-less colored materials.&nbsp;



“We are pursuing collaborations with fellow researchers to develop flexible biomimetic structurally-coloured systems inspired by the soft nature of stingray skin for safe, chemical-free colors in textiles, flexible displays, screens, and sensors,” Dean reported.



The experts are also investigating blue coloration in other rays and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sharks-important-deserve-protections/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a>, including the blue shark. “Despite the name 'blue shark' and its ecological aspects being well studied, no one still knows how the blue color is produced on its skin,” Kamska said. 



“Preliminary results demonstrate that this coloration mechanism is different from the stingray's - but just like the stingray, we need to try different combinations of fine imaging tools and address multiple related disciplines in optics, material, and biological science,” she concluded.



 The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/adom.202301909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Advanced Optical Materials</a>.



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How did the ribbontail ray get its electric blue spots?

A team of international researchers has recently identified the unique...

Many scientists believe that in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hairless-mammals-evolved-at-a-faster-pace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mammals</a>, there's a tradeoff between growth and lifespan. Pugs, for example, are known to live longer than their larger counterpart in the dog world, the Great Dane. 



But a new study conducted by Chen Hou, an associate professor of biological sciences at the <a href="https://www.mst.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Missouri University of Science and Technology</a>, shows that when more energy is allocated to the creation of better cellular materials, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-explain-longevity-in-mammals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">longevity</a> is enhanced.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energetic-cost-of-biosynthesis-nbsp">Energetic cost of biosynthesis&nbsp;</h2>



Hou argued that his “take-home message” from this research is that if you allocate more energy to making improved cellular materials, you will live longer - a concept that he says engineers may be more familiar with than biologists.



“The existing life history theories suggested a tradeoff between growth and somatic maintenance, meaning more energy spent on growth would result in less for maintaining health,” Hou explained.&nbsp;



“But this study reveals that the energy cost for biosynthesis is a hidden physiological mechanism underlying the well-established negative correlation between growth and lifespan in mammalian species.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-growth-and-lifespan">Linking growth and lifespan</h2>



Hou's study uses a new research model based on energy conservation to explain the physiological effect of the variation in the energetic cost on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aging-may-be-driven-by-genetic-imbalances/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging</a> process. It also illustrates its role in linking growth and lifespan.



“Previously, the energetic cost of biosynthesis has been thought to be a constant across species and therefore was not considered a contributor to the variation in any life history traits, such as growth and lifespan,” Hou said.



“This study employs a recently proposed model based on energy conservation to explain the physiological effect of the variation in this energetic cost on the aging process and illustrates its role in linking growth and lifespan.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-negative-correlation-between-growth-and-lifespan">Negative correlation between growth and lifespan</h2>



The study shows that after controlling two energy components - mass-specific <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/age-related-changes-in-metabolism-dont-match-our-expectations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">metabolic rate</a> and the energetic cost of biosynthesis - there is still a negative correlation between growth constant and lifespan, revealing that the energetic cost of biosynthesis is a link between growth and longevity in mammals.



According to Hou, since the energy cost of biosynthesis links growth to aging processes, allocating more energy to growth may enhance somatic maintenance.



Thus, the conventional understanding of the tradeoff between growth and maintenance needs to be more carefully analyzed, and the potential combined effect of metabolic rate and energetic cost of biosynthesis should be considered in similar studies of aging.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2315921121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Missing link between growth size and lifespan identified

Many scientists believe that in mammals, there's a tradeoff between...

In the fascinating world of ornithology, a groundbreaking study reveals that blue and great tits are capable of utilizing impressive episodic-like memory for their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coffee-plantations-limit-native-birds-diets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food foraging</a> activities. This trait was once thought to be exclusive to humans.



Often seen darting around gardens in search of delicious treats hidden in shrubs and trees, these small songbirds remember not only their dietary past but the location of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-birds-enjoy-eating-feces-and-what-it-means-for-their-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food source</a> and the time they discovered it. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-cognition-in-natural-environments">Animal cognition in natural environments</h2>



The novelty of this research is that it's one of the very first to involve wild animals in such an experiment, opening an intriguing avenue into understanding more about animal cognition in natural environments.



This discovery was made by researchers from the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> and the University of East Anglia. 



Initially, it was widely believed that episodic memory, which involves recalling personally experienced events, was a trait unique to humans.&nbsp;



However, this research provides compelling evidence to the contrary, suggesting that many non-human animals also possess such episodic-like memory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-intelligence-research">Animal intelligence research</h2>



Implementing advanced tracking technologies and specially commissioned software, the research team facilitated the participation of 94 wild, free-living blue and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-tits-often-lose-their-vivid-colors-in-the-city/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">great tits</a> in a series of memory tasks. 



The tasks were centered around automated food containers and included testing unique, timed events specific to each bird.



Why focus specifically on blue tits and great tits? Well, these birds are opportunistic foragers with diverse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-birds-learn-what-to-avoid-eating-by-watching-others/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dietary preferences</a>, making them perfect candidates to investigate the benefit of recalling ecological details from singular experiences aiding flexible decision-making.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pushing-the-boundary-of-songbird-memory">Pushing the boundary of songbird memory</h2>



According to James Davies, the study's first author from the University of Cambridge’s Comparative Cognition Lab, these results are a breakthrough.&nbsp;



"Our findings provide the first evidence for episodic-like memory in the wild and show that blue and great tits have a more flexible memory system than we used to assume. These birds are more intelligent than they've been given credit for."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-songbird-memory-in-action-nbsp">Songbird memory in action&nbsp;</h2>



For the memory tests, the researchers employed an existing study design, which had been developed by Nicola Clayton and Anthony Dickinson. They adapted it to a realistic foraging scenario with two food items - sunflower seeds and peanut pieces.



The intricate rules of the “temporal feeder” experiment allowed the birds to show their capacity for recalling details from their experiences. By applying this knowledge to new situations, the researchers could observe episodic-like memory in action.



Dr. Gabrielle Davidson from the University of East Anglia, the senior author of the study, marveled at the birds' natural behavior and their ability to perform well in the memory tasks within their familiar environment.&nbsp;



“The birds were behaving naturally in a familiar environment, so we captured something more realistic than if the birds had been captive. It was remarkable to see these birds performed well in our memory tasks while also experiencing a bunch of other memories out in the wild,” said Dr. Davidson.



“For us, field research is challenging because the birds are completely free not to take part in our experiments and just fly away, but we’ve shown this type of intelligence test in the wild works.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-memory-in-songbirds">Evolution of memory in songbirds</h2>



The implications of this discovery extend beyond just proving the existence of episodic-like memory in non-human animals. The experts also suggest that this flexible memory could aid in adapting to environmental stress and fluctuations related to climate change.



This research poses fascinating questions about the reciprocal relationship between humans and these birds, and the potential impact of human behavior on the evolution of their memory traits.&nbsp;



“It is possible that these birds are picking up on and remembering our routines in terms of when we top up bird feeders. This needs further study,” said Dr. Davidson.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-ahead-future-research">Looking ahead: Future research</h2>



The exciting results of this study in the wild has not only broken ground in our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagulls-birds-more-intelligent-than-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird intelligence</a> but paves the way for further research. Professor Nicola Clayton is eager to explore whether birds with more prominent episodic-like memory traits experience enhanced reproductive success.



Significant progress has undoubtedly been made since the late 1990s when Professor Clayton first started her research in this field. Understanding the “what, where, and when” of unique past events is not a uniquely human trait, as once assumed.



“This type of memory would allow them to flexibly react to new conditions and combine this information with their original memory to make decisions,” said Davies. “So whether they're thinking about fruit ripening or caterpillars emerging, that's a powerful ability to have when things get tough."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2024.06.029" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>. 



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Tiny songbirds are masters of memory and adaptation

In the fascinating world of ornithology, a groundbreaking study reveals...

New experimental research has revealed that the combined effects of ocean warming and acidification could dramatically reduce the survival rate of embryonic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sharks-important-deserve-protections/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> by 2100. This study is also the first to show that monthly temperature variation significantly impacts shark embryo mortality.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-has-nearly-doubled-in-the-last-decade/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ocean warming</a> and acidification result from increased CO2 levels dissolving into marine environments, leading to rising water temperatures and lower pH levels. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hatching-success-of-shark-embryos-nbsp">Hatching success of shark embryos&nbsp;</h2>



“The embryos of egg-laying species are especially sensitive to environmental conditions,” said Noémie Coulon, a PhD student at the <a href="https://borea.mnhn.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Laboratory of Biology of Aquatic Organisms and Ecosystems</a> in France. 



“The hatching success of embryos is a crucial factor for population dynamics. In the case of skates and sharks, which have a slow pace of life, low hatching rates could be critical for population renewal.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-spotted-catshark-embryo-survival-nbsp">Small-spotted catshark embryo survival&nbsp;</h2>



The small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula) is one of the most abundant shark species in Europe, yet it is already experiencing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/top-marine-predators-may-suffer-massive-habitat-loss-by-2100/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat loss</a> in coastal areas, particularly during the summer months when egg-laying is at its peak. 



Coulon and her team compared embryo survival under three scenarios: a control scenario using baseline temperature and pH data from 1995 to 2014, and two predicted climate scenarios for 2100 based on the <a href="https://unfccc.int/documents/636550?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw7ZO0BhDYARIsAFttkCg16wrg18FNCdBeZgOe_Z9twyo1Ly2ns7y9ux1pnlOuaNH7N5vTosQaAuN-EALw_wcB" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s Sixth Assessment Report</a> from 2021.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicted-climate-scenarios-nbsp">Predicted climate scenarios&nbsp;</h2>



The SSP2 scenario, known as the “Middle of the Road” scenario, represents a future where slow and non-uniform progress towards tackling <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-sharks-swim/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> is present but net-zero is not reached, predicting a temperature rise of 2.7°C and a pH drop of 0.2 by 2100. 



The SSP5 scenario, called the “Fossil-fueled Development” scenario, represents a future where fossil fuel resources continue to be more rapidly exploited, predicting a temperature rise of 4.4°C and a pH drop of 0.4 by 2100.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heat-linked-to-shocking-embryo-mortality-rate">Heat linked to shocking embryo mortality rate</h2>



The researchers measured embryo growth and yolk consumption weekly over a four-month period and recorded hatching success and the growth of surviving baby sharks for six months post-hatching.&nbsp;



They found a high survival rate for both the control and SSP2 scenarios (81% and 83% respectively). However, survival plummeted under the SSP5 scenario, with only 11% of embryos hatching.&nbsp;



“We were shocked by the low survival rate observed in the SSP5 scenario,” Coulon said. The team linked this mortality to lower yolk consumption rates, lower growth rates, and failure to transition to internal gills.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temperature-variation-and-embryo-mortality-nbsp">Temperature variation and embryo mortality&nbsp;</h2>



The study also highlighted the significant impact of seasonal temperature variation on embryo mortality, particularly during critical egg-laying periods. “This mortality was most pronounced in August, coinciding with the highest temperatures (reaching 23.1°C),” she explained.



The surviving 11% of embryos in the SSP5 scenario did not exhibit typical growth patterns, which might have contributed to their resilience to environmental changes.&nbsp;



“What makes these individuals special remains unclear,” said Coulon. Understanding inter-individual variation among young marine organisms could improve predictions of future ecological success.



This research serves as both a warning and a call to action. “It serves as a warning about the responses of other species that may be even more sensitive to environmental change,” she said. “Our findings demonstrate that the more moderate SSP2 scenario can limit the damage inflicted on species like the small-spotted catshark.”



Supported by the <a href="https://saveourseas.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Save Our Seas Foundation</a>, this study will be presented at the <a href="https://www.sebiology.org/events/seb-conference-prague-2024.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Society for Experimental Biology Annual Conference</a> in Prague in July 2024. 



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Shark embryo mortality expected to rise by 71 percent

New experimental research has revealed that the combined effects of...

Researchers have uncovered a significant clue in Italian limestone that helps explain a mass <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-erosion-and-fire-contributed-to-triassic-mass-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinction</a> of marine life millions of years ago during the Jurassic. The research may offer insights into the impact of oxygen depletion and climate change in today’s oceans.&nbsp;



Michael A. Kipp, an assistant professor of earth and climate science at <a href="https://duke.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Duke University</a>, co-authored a study measuring oxygen loss in oceans leading to marine species extinction 183 million years ago.&nbsp;



“This event, and events like it, are the best analogs we have in Earth's past for what is to come in the next decades and centuries,” he said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oxygen-depletion-during-the-jurassic">Oxygen depletion during the Jurassic </h2>



During the Jurassic Period, extensive volcanic activity in what is now South Africa released approximately 20,500 gigatons of carbon dioxide (CO2) over 500,000 years, heating the oceans and causing significant oxygen depletion. 



The result was a mass extinction of Jurassic marine species due to suffocation from the lack of oxygen.



“It’s an analog, but not a perfect one, to predict what will happen to future oxygen loss in oceans from human-made carbon emissions, and the impact that loss will have on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-ecosystems-survive-extinctions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine ecosystems</a> and biodiversity,” said co-author Mariano Remirez, an assistant research professor at <a href="https://www.gmu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">George Mason University</a>.



By examining limestone sediment that carries chemicals dating back to the time of the volcanic activity, researchers were able to estimate changes in ancient ocean oxygen levels.&nbsp;



At one point, oxygen was completely <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cascading-oxygen-loss-could-endanger-our-oceans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depleted</a> in up to 8% of the ancient global seafloor, an area roughly three times the size of the United States.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unprecedented-levels-of-atmospheric-co2">Unprecedented levels of atmospheric CO2 </h2>



Since the Industrial Revolution, human activity has released CO2 emissions equivalent to 12% of what was released during the Jurassic volcanism.&nbsp;



However, Kipp notes that today’s rapid rate of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-ancient-plants-affect-atmospheric-co2-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric CO2</a> release is unprecedented, making it difficult to predict when another mass extinction might occur or its severity.



“We just don't have anything this severe,” Kipp said. “We go to the most rapid CO2-emitting events we can in history, and they're still not rapid enough to be a perfect comparison to what we're going through today. We're perturbing the system faster than ever before.”



“We have at least quantified the marine oxygen loss during this event, which will help constrain our predictions of what will happen in the future,” he concluded.



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



In the ocean, climate change and oxygen loss are directly related. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-is-subtly-changing-the-tides/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Warmer water</a> holds less oxygen than cooler water, which means that dissolved oxygen levels are diminished as temperatures rise.&nbsp;



On top of this, higher temperatures cause ocean stratification, where layers of water with different temperatures form. This prevents the mixing of oxygen-rich surface waters with deeper waters.&nbsp;



Another contributing factor is the increased input of nutrients from agricultural runoff and other sources, which can lead to algal blooms.&nbsp;



When these algae die and decompose, the process consumes large amounts of oxygen, creating hypoxic or "dead" zones where marine life cannot survive.&nbsp;



Climate change can intensify these processes by altering rainfall patterns, increasing runoff, and thereby increasing the nutrient load entering the ocean.



Furthermore, the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers due to global warming can lead to changes in ocean circulation patterns. These changes affect the distribution of oxygen in the ocean, often leading to decreased oxygen levels in certain areas.&nbsp;



Overall, the combination of warmer water temperatures, stratification, nutrient pollution, and changes in circulation patterns driven by climate change is causing significant oxygen loss in the ocean, which has serious implications for marine ecosystems and the organisms that depend on them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-oxygen-loss-impact-marine-species">How does oxygen loss impact marine species?</h2>



Oxygen loss in marine environments significantly impacts marine animals by reducing the availability of a critical element needed for their survival.&nbsp;



As oxygen levels decrease, many marine species experience stress, which can lead to decreased growth rates, impaired reproductive success, and increased susceptibility to diseases.&nbsp;



This hypoxic condition forces marine animals to either adapt, migrate to areas with higher oxygen levels, or face potential mortality.&nbsp;



Additionally, oxygen depletion can disrupt food chains, as both predator and prey species are affected, leading to broader ecological consequences in marine ecosystems.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2406032121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Jurassic extinction may hold clues about our oceans’ future

Researchers have uncovered a significant clue in Italian limestone that...

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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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"] Astronomers at Johns Hopkins University have created...

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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



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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

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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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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

Satellites have become essential to our survival

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