Every living organism relies on a genetic blueprint encoded in its DNA, yet the amount of DNA - or genome size - varies dramatically across the tree of life.&nbsp;



In animals alone, genome sizes range from the minuscule genome of Intoshia variabili, a marine parasite - which is about 200 times smaller than the human genome - to the massive genome of the marbled lungfish (Protopterus aethiopicus) - which is over 40 times larger than ours.&nbsp;



Plants exhibit a similar range, with the fork fern (Tmesipteris oblanceolata) setting the record with a genome size over 50 times larger than that of humans.



This diversity in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genome-mapping-completed-for-dozens-of-common-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome</a> size reveals the vast variety of life forms on Earth, but it also raises a fascinating question: If smaller genomes lead to faster, more efficient growth, why do some species have larger genomes?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advantages-of-smaller-genome-sizes">Advantages of smaller genome sizes</h2>



The replication of DNA is essential for cell production and growth, making smaller genomes more efficient as they require fewer resources and time to replicate.&nbsp;



Smaller genomes demand fewer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/excess-nutrients-are-creating-ocean-dead-zones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrients</a>, especially the DNA-building elements nitrogen and phosphorus, making them ideal for rapid growth and reproduction.



Because of these advantages, it’s not surprising that most species have evolved with relatively small genomes.&nbsp;



However, large genomes persist in some organisms, suggesting that these genomes may confer certain benefits in specific environments, where the costs of carrying extra DNA are outweighed by unique growth advantages.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-large-genome-benefits-in-grasses">Exploring large genome benefits in grasses</h2>



A research team led by the <a href="https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sheffield</a> has recently studied the potential benefits of large genomes in grass species. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fairy-circles-kill-all-newly-planted-grasses-deepening-their-mystery/">Grasses</a>, a vast plant family found worldwide from arctic tundras to tropical savannas, vary in genome size, making them an ideal group to examine how genome size affects growth in different conditions.



The study, published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/nph.20150" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a>, examined the growth of various grass species under conditions mimicking their natural environments - high temperatures, low nutrients, and drought. 



The scientists compared growth rates to each species’ genome size and observed that while grasses with smaller genomes generally grew better across most conditions, larger genomes provided advantages in two specific scenarios.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-genomes-thrive-in-nutrient-rich-environments">Large genomes thrive in nutrient-rich environments</h2>



The first scenario where larger genomes proved beneficial was in nutrient-rich soils. While low nutrient levels slowed down large-genome grasses, those with large genomes thrived in high-nutrient environments.&nbsp;



Here, the extra DNA content meant larger cells that produced more biomass, such as leaves, which allowed these plants to outgrow and overshadow neighbors with smaller genomes.&nbsp;



In nutrient-poor areas, however, the demands of replicating additional DNA outweighed these benefits, making smaller genomes more favorable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-seasons-and-genome-sizes">Growing seasons and genome sizes</h2>



The second advantage for large-genome grasses occurred in cooler environments, such as temperate regions with lower growing season temperatures.&nbsp;



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-plants-grow-more-branches-and-become-bushy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plant growth</a> typically has two stages: cell division, where new cells are generated, and cell expansion, where cells swell with water to help the plant grow taller or spread. 



Cool temperatures significantly slow down cell division, but they have less impact on cell expansion.&nbsp;



Consequently, grasses with larger cells, which accompany large genomes, can expand more rapidly by cell enlargement even in cooler weather, outpacing smaller-genome plants that rely on faster cell division in warmer temperatures.



This cell expansion process explains the early spring growth of plants like daffodils and bluebells, which also have large genomes.&nbsp;



These plants perform much of their cell division in warmer months, allowing them to use cell expansion to grow quickly in early spring, well before smaller-genome plants begin to compete for light and nutrients.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genome-size-diversity">Genome size diversity</h2>



The diversity in genome sizes among grasses may be one reason for their global success, as it allows them to adapt to a wide range of environmental conditions.&nbsp;



While smaller genomes typically support efficient growth, larger genomes offer unique advantages in specific environments, enabling certain species to thrive where others cannot.&nbsp;



This genetic diversity in grasses underscores the importance of variation in supporting species’ survival and adaptability across ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genome-size-and-evolutionary-success">Genome size and evolutionary success</h2>



The relationship between genome size and survival is not limited to plants. Our own medium-sized genome has supported humanity’s adaptability, though we don’t face the same nutrient limitations as stationary plants.&nbsp;



Unlike grasses, humans can move to seek out food and resources, which may allow us to bear the metabolic costs associated with our DNA without significant limitation.&nbsp;



This mobility highlights how different species leverage their genetic make-up in conjunction with unique behaviors and environmental interactions to thrive across diverse habitats.



In summary, the role of genome size in evolutionary success is nuanced and complex.&nbsp;



From the efficient replication of small genomes to the adaptability enabled by larger ones, genome size continues to shape the ecological <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asian-forests-proving-resilient-both-climate-change-human-actions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resilience</a> and global distribution of life on Earth.



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How does genome size impact evolutionary success?

Every living organism relies on a genetic blueprint encoded in its DNA, yet the amount of DNA - or genome size - varies dramatically across the tree of life.&nbsp; In animals alone, genome sizes range from the minuscule genome of Intoshia variabili, a marine parasite - which is about 200 times smaller than the human genome - to the massive genome of the marbled lungfish (Protopterus aethiopicus) - which is over 40 times larger than ours.&nbsp; Plants exhibit a similar range, with the fork fern (Tmesipteris oblanceolata)...

Have you ever stopped to wonder how we pick up new skills or remember the details of a cherished moment? Our brains are constantly learning and creating new memories, adapting and changing with each new experience. 



A recent study has uncovered new details on the fascinating ways our brains learn and store memories.



By exploring how learning reshapes the connections between our brain cells, scientists are giving us a deeper appreciation of memory and the remarkable organ that is the human brain.



Leading this important research is Dr. Tomás Ryan, a neuroscientist from <a href="https://www.tcd.ie/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trinity College Dublin</a> dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of memory. His team's latest findings offer a fresh perspective on how our neurons change when we learn something new.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-engram-cells-explained">Engram cells explained</h2>



At the core of this study are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forgetting-may-actually-be-a-beneficial-form-of-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">engram cells</a> -- special groups of brain cells that hold our memories. When we have new experiences, these cells become active and form stronger connections with each other, effectively encoding the memory. 



This process is often summed up by the phrase "neurons that fire together, wire together."



Later, when we try to recall that experience, the same network of engram cells reactivates, allowing us to retrieve the stored information.



"Memory engram cells are groups of brain cells that, activated by specific experiences, change themselves to incorporate and thereby hold information in our brain," explained Clara Ortega-de San Luis, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow working with Dr. Ryan.



Understanding how these engram cells work is crucial for scientists as they explore the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-our-brain-form-long-term-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intricate processes</a> of learning and memory formation.



But how exactly do these engram cells store information that matters to us? 



Clara adds, "Reactivation of these 'building blocks' of memories triggers the recall of the specific experiences associated with them. The question is, how do engrams store meaningful information about the world?"



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-similar-yet-different-contexts">Exploring similar yet different contexts</h2>



To better answer this question, Dr. Ryan's team designed experiments where animals learned to recognize environments that were similar but not identical. 



By observing how the animals distinguished between these contexts, the researchers could see learning in action.



In their experiments, the team used genetic techniques to label two separate groups of engram cells --each linked to a different memory. This allowed them to trace how these cells interacted as new memories formed.



To understand the connections between these engram cells, the researchers turned to optogenetics. This innovative technique uses light to control brain cell activity. By shining light on specific neurons, they could observe how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-trust-our-memories-separating-truth-from-fiction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new connections formed</a> during learning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proteins-that-bridge-memories">Proteins that bridge memories</h2>



Their work uncovered a molecular mechanism involving a specific protein in the synapse -- the junction where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zombie-neurons-shed-new-light-on-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neurons communicate</a>. 



This protein plays a crucial role in regulating how engram cells connect, essentially bridging separate memories together.



Dr. Ryan believes these findings offer valuable insights into how memories are stored. 



"Understanding the cellular mechanisms that allow learning to occur helps us to comprehend not only how we form new memories or modify those pre-existent ones but also advance our knowledge towards disentangling how the brain works and the mechanisms needed for it to process thoughts and information," Dr. Ryan explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-like-a-sculpture-than-a-computer">More like a sculpture than a computer</h2>



Challenging traditional views, Dr. Ryan suggests we might need to shift our perspective on how memories reside in the brain. 



"In 21st-century neuroscience, many of us like to think memories are being stored in engram cells, or their sub-components," Dr. Ryan continued.



"This study argues that rather than looking for information within or at cells, we should search for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-find-a-way-to-regenerate-old-neurons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">information between cells</a>, and that learning may work by altering the wiring diagram of the brain -- less like a computer and more like a developing sculpture. In other words, the engram is not in the cell; the cell is in the engram," he concluded.



This idea emphasizes the significance of the connections between neurons rather than the neurons themselves. It's like considering not just individual musicians but the harmony they create together.



Each new piece of information we take in can modify existing engram cells or create new ones. This continuous remodeling is what allows us to learn and adapt throughout our lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sensory-inputs-in-learning-and-memory-formation">Sensory inputs in learning and memory formation</h2>



Our brains have an amazing ability to blend the different senses we experience, like sight and sound, into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-perception-we-see-the-world-based-on-what-we-expect-to-see/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">one smooth perception</a>, even though these inputs arrive at different times.



When we see and hear something happening at the same time, our brain uses a process called temporal binding. This means it synchronizes sensory inputs that happen within a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-experiences-alter-time-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tiny time frame</a>, so events appear simultaneous to us. 



For example, when we watch someone clap and hear the sound, our brain aligns these inputs despite the light and sound reaching us at different speeds.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-brain-combines-inputs">How the brain combines inputs</h3>



Different areas of the brain handle different senses -- the visual cortex for sight and the auditory cortex for sound. These regions communicate to ensure <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/slow-motion-exercise-changes-our-perception-of-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sensory information</a> is processed together. 



Areas called multisensory convergence zones, like the superior colliculus and the posterior parietal cortex, play key roles in integrating these inputs.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-making-sense-of-timing-in-memory-and-learning">Making sense of timing in memory and learning</h3>



Our brain operates with a flexible time window to consider inputs as simultaneous. It also uses prior knowledge and context to adjust our perception. 



For instance, even if thunder arrives after lightning, we understand they are linked events. The brain can compensate for these delays, so we perceive them as connected.



Once the brain has merged these sensory inputs, it forms a coherent experience. This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-perception-changes-with-our-walking-rhythm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unified perception</a> is what gets stored in our memory, thanks to the hippocampus. It not only records the sensory details but also the context, helping us recall the entire experience later.



Our brain's ability to integrate sensory information improves with experience. Through neuroplasticity, repeated events strengthen the neural pathways involved, making the process more efficient over time. 



This means that the more we experience something, the better our brain gets at combining those sensory inputs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-the-unsung-hero-of-memory">Sleep: The unsung hero of memory</h2>



While we're on the topic of learning, it's worth mentioning the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-reboots-the-brain-making-room-for-new-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vital role sleep plays</a>. Getting enough rest isn't just about recharging -- it's essential for solidifying the memories we've formed during the day.



During sleep, our brains are busy consolidating new information, transferring it from short-term to long-term memory. Lack of sleep can interfere with this process, making it harder to remember what we've learned.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-memory-and-future-research">Learning, memory, and future research</h2>



So, what does all this mean for us? Understanding how our brains store and retrieve memories can have big implications. It might lead to better strategies for learning or new approaches to treating memory-related conditions.



The discoveries made by Dr. Ryan and his team open exciting new avenues for research. If learning reshapes the connections between neurons, perhaps we can find ways to enhance these processes.



Our brains are incredibly complex, and each study brings us a little closer to understanding how we think, learn, and remember. It's an ongoing journey, and one that's full of wonder and possibility.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0960982223015129" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Secrets of learning: How our brains make and retrieve memories

Have you ever stopped to wonder how we pick up...

When it comes to our canine companions, their health matters to us just as much as our own. We often wish they could tell us when something is not right. But what if there was a way to listen to what dogs cannot say?



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> have developed a machine learning algorithm that can accurately detect heart murmurs - a key indicator of cardiac disease in dogs.



A regular feature in small breeds like King Charles Spaniels, cardiac disease is a serious issue that can significantly affect a dog's quality of life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-dog-health-connection">Human-dog health connection</h2>



“Heart disease in humans is a huge <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/medium-sized-dogs-have-a-greater-risk-of-developing-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health issue</a>, but in dogs it’s an even bigger problem,” said first author Dr. Andrew McDonald from Cambridge’s Department of Engineering.



“Most smaller dog breeds will have heart disease when they get older, but obviously dogs can’t communicate in the same way that humans can, so it’s up to primary care vets to detect heart disease early enough so it can be treated.”



The solution? Technology that can. The team at Cambridge adapted an algorithm initially created for humans to effectively detect and grade heart murmurs in dogs. 



And the results are astonishing. With a sensitivity accuracy of 90%, the algorithm performs at par with expert cardiologists. So how does this actually work?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-algorithm-for-dogs-heart-health">Algorithm for dogs' heart health</h2>



At the core of this technology is a machine learning algorithm fine-tuned to replicate whether a heart murmur has been detected by a cardiologist. 



Initially created with a database of heart sounds from about 1,000 human patients, the algorithm was then adapted to be compatible with heart sounds from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-are-evolving-to-fit-the-modern-lives-of-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a>.



The data for this adaptation came from nearly 800 dogs who underwent routine heart examinations at four veterinary specialist centers in the UK. 



The ultimate goal? To make the innovative algorithm capable of distinguishing between murmurs associated with mild disease and those indicating advanced heart disease that requires further treatment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-dogs-heart-health">Protecting dogs' heart health</h2>



Professor Anurag Agarwal, who led the research, is a specialist in acoustics and bioengineering.



“Knowing when to medicate is so important, in order to give dogs the best quality of life possible for as long as possible,” said Professor Agarwal. "We want to empower vets to help make those decisions.”



And it is not just the vets who will benefit. For <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/interacting-with-dogs-can-ease-physical-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dog</a> owners, this technology could hold the key to extending their beloved pet's life with timely diagnosis and treatment.



“We can’t perform heart scans on every dog in this country&nbsp;- we just don’t have enough time or specialists to screen every dog with a murmur," noted study co-author Jose Novo Matos.



"But tools like these could help vets and owners, so we can quickly identify those dogs who are most in need of treatment."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-the-gap-with-ai">Bridging the gap with AI</h2>



Artificial intelligence (AI) is proving to be a transformative force in veterinary medicine, offering solutions that were deemed improbable not long ago. 



By bridging the communication gap between human caregivers and canine patients, AI technologies like the heart murmur algorithm not only enhance diagnostic precision but also expedite the decision-making process in clinical settings. 



This confluence of advanced technology and veterinary care illustrates the vast potential AI holds in revolutionizing animal healthcare. 



With further research and development, similar algorithms could emerge, specializing in detecting other common ailments in dogs, promising a new era of comprehensive and personalized vet care.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaboration-across-disciplines">Collaboration across disciplines</h2>



Looking ahead, the journey from academic research to practical applications in veterinary clinics highlights the importance of collaboration across disciplines. 



The partnership between engineers, veterinary experts, and technology developers underscores a collective commitment to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warning-dogs-drinking-from-public-water-sources-is-dangerous/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">improving animal welfare</a>.



Continued collaboration is vital to refine and expand diagnostic tools that leverage machine learning, ensuring veterinarians are well-equipped to face the challenges of modern pet healthcare. 



As innovations like these continue to evolve, they pave the way for a more integrated approach to managing and enhancing the longevity of dogs beyond heart health, ultimately fostering a deeper human-dog connection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-canine-cardiology">Future of canine cardiology </h2>



The results not only present a promising future in canine cardiology but also set the stage for how machine learning can benefit healthcare beyond humans.



As we continue to explore the possibilities of machine learning, this study reaffirms our belief that technology, when used well, is not a threat but a tool.



"So many people talk about AI as a threat to jobs, but for me, I see it as a tool that will make me a better cardiologist,” said Novo Matos.



The research was supported in part by the Kennel Club Charitable Trust, the Medical Research Council, and Emmanuel College Cambridge.



The study is published in the <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jvim.17224" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine</a>. 



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AI can now ‘hear’ signs of heart disease in dogs

When it comes to our canine companions, their health matters...

Time may hold the key to better sleep and health, according to the British Sleep Society - a research group that is committed to unlocking the secrets of quality rest.



The experts are urging the UK government to end the bi-annual practice of adjusting the clocks, citing its detrimental effects on sleep and overall circadian health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-making-time-work-for-us">Making time work for us</h2>



The current practice of oscillating between Standard Time (Greenwich Mean Time or GMT) and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/daylight-saving-time-causes-unhealthy-lifestyle-choices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Daylight Saving Time</a> (or British Summer Time) twice a year has been a notable custom since 1972.



However, the British Sleep Society is now calling for standard time to be observed all year long.



The researchers emphasize the importance of morning daylight in maintaining the optimal alignment of our biological clocks with our active day and resting night. This alignment, they argue, is central to our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/community-sleep-health-predicts-success-among-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep health</a> and overall well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-switching-back-to-standard-time">Switching back to standard time</h2>



The bold recommendation by the British Sleep Society stems from comprehensive academic assessments and reviews authored by experts at various UK universities.



The research was led by Dr. Megan Crawford of the <a href="https://www.strath.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Strathclyde</a>, Dr. Eva Winnebeck of the <a href="https://www.surrey.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Surrey</a>, and Professor Malcolm von Schantz of <a href="https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northumbria University</a>.



The Society's statement, backed by these academics and supported by a number of other sleep organizations, was released to coincide with the recent switch back to standard time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-disruption-of-daylight-saving-time">The disruption of daylight saving time</h2>



There is substantial evidence to show that the shift to Daylight Saving Time can disrupt sleep regulation.



“Daylight Saving Time changes our schedules, moving them forward by one hour while daylight remains the same. DST forces us all to get up and go to work or school one hour earlier," said Dr. Winnebeck.



"In seasons with fewer daylight hours such as now in autumn, it means most of us have to get up and commute in the dark."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-geographical-factors">Unique geographical factors </h2>



The British Sleep Society and its members took into consideration the unique geographical orientation and context of the UK when putting forward their recommendation. 



They pointed out that due to the UK's location in relation to the Prime Meridian, the country experiences later sunrises and sunsets throughout the year.



The Society believes that if any changes are to be considered for better sleep, it should be done in collaboration with the Republic of Ireland to avoid creating a time zone border across the island.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-argument-for-standard-time">The argument for standard time</h2>



Dr. Megan Crawford, senior lecturer in psychology at the University of Strathclyde, elaborated on the rationale behind the Society’s argument for maintaining standard time.



She voiced concerns about the recurring discussions advocating for year-round Daylight Saving Time and reiterated that our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/goodbye-jet-lag-using-a-protein-to-reset-the-body-clock/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">body clocks</a> need morning light synchronicity.



“At our latitudes there is simply no spare daylight to save during the winter months and given the choice between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-to-daylight-leads-to-better-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural light</a> in the morning and natural light in the afternoon, the scientific evidence favors light in the morning,” said Dr. Crawford.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-standard-time-and-sleep-health">Standard time and sleep health</h2>



The Society’s pivotal statement, supported by organizations like The Irish Sleep Society, Capella (Sleep Action), The Sleep Charity, and The British Society of Pharmacy Sleep Services, has spurred a fresh dialogue around sleep health in the UK. 



This is just one of the many ways in which sleep experts are working to enhance our understanding of sleep and its impact on our health.



Advocates for year-round standard time highlight its potential to support better mental and physical health, noting that a consistent schedule aligns more closely with our natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colors-of-sunset-and-sunrise-reset-our-circadian-rhythms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">circadian rhythms</a>.



Researchers suggest that maintaining standard time throughout the year could improve sleep duration, reduce fatigue, and lower the risks of sleep disorders.



This alignment may also decrease the likelihood of mental health issues exacerbated by disrupted sleep, such as anxiety and depression.



A study published by the British Medical Journal supports these claims, pointing to an increase in accidents and heart attacks following the shift to Daylight Saving Time each spring. 



The British Sleep Society argues that the elimination of clock changes could help mitigate these risks and promote a healthier society overall.



The study is published in the <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jsr.14352" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Sleep Research</a>.



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Keeping standard time all year could greatly improve our health

Time may hold the key to better sleep and health,...

If you're not a tree hugger now, you might want to become one soon. A recent report has revealed that more than one in three tree species are at risk of extinction.



The Global Tree Assessment is part of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (<a href="https://www.iucnredlist.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IUCN</a>) Red List of Threatened Species update. The report was issued to coincide with the UN's COP16 summit on biodiversity.



The numbers paint an alarming picture. Out of an estimated 58,000 species thought to exist globally, over 16,000 tree species are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-majority-of-urban-trees-are-threatened-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">threatened</a> with extinction. In other words, more than one third of all tree species are endangered.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-worldwide-extinction-threat-to-trees">Worldwide extinction threat to trees</h2>



We're not talking about a handful of species in some remote part of the world. The experts looked at over 47,000 tree species and found that this extinction threat is worldwide.



Now, you're probably wondering, what's causing such a massive threat to our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-trees-is-important-but-reforestation-can-help-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green friends</a>? Well, we are largely to blame. 



In previous studies, experts have estimated that since the onset of human civilization, the global number of trees has dropped by roughly 46 percent.



The <a href="https://www.bgci.org/our-work/networks/gta/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Tree Assessment</a> notes that trees are being cut down for logging and to clear lands for farming and human expansion. Climate change, drought, and wildfires are also playing a destructive role.



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



"People rely on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-trees-protect-their-genetic-diversity-for-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree species</a> for food, timber, fuels (and) medicines," said Emily Beech, an expert who was part of the study. 



Trees also produce the oxygen we breathe and absorb heat-trapping carbon dioxide emissions from the atmosphere.



"Trees are essential to support life on Earth through their vital role in ecosystems, and millions of people depend upon them for their lives and livelihoods," said IUCN director general Grethel Aguilar.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trees-with-the-highest-extinction-risk">Trees with the highest extinction risk</h2>



Now, let's turn to the species that are at the highest risk. These include horse chestnut and ginkgo, both known for their medical applications.



The big leaf mahogany, used in furniture making, and several ash, magnolia, and eucalypt species are also severely threatened.



Over 5,000 of the tree species on the IUCN Red List are used for construction timber, and more than 2,000 are used for medicines, food, and fuels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-areas-of-greatest-concern">Areas of greatest concern</h2>



The threat transcends national borders, sparing none of the 192 countries where tree species are at risk of extinction.



However, it's the islands that are taking the hardest hit due to rapid urban development, expanding agriculture, and the introduction of invasive species, pests, and diseases.



South America, a continent that boasts the greatest diversity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/resilient-trees-can-help-safeguard-cities-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a> in the world, is facing a particularly severe threat, with 3,356 out of 13,668 assessed species at risk.



What's even more alarming is that many species on this continent, home to the Amazon jungle, have likely not even been discovered yet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-we-save-trees-from-extinction">Can we save trees from extinction?</h2>



All hope is not lost. The IUCN report outlines various measures that can be taken to save our trees, such as tree planting, conservation of species through seed banks, and botanic garden collections.



Protecting trees requires both collective action and individual effort. Here are some impactful ways each of us can help:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choose-sustainable-products">Choose sustainable products</h3>



Select goods like paper, furniture, and food from companies that follow sustainable practices. Look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) to ensure the products come from responsibly managed forests.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduce-paper-and-wood-waste">Reduce paper and wood waste</h3>



Use digital alternatives, recycle paper products, and buy recycled wood furniture. These small choices lower demand for tree-derived materials, helping reduce unnecessary deforestation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advocate-for-tree-protection-laws">Advocate for tree protection laws</h3>



Support policies that protect forests and regulate industries responsible for deforestation. Contacting local representatives and voting for environmentally-conscious leaders can help push these initiatives.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adopt-a-tree-or-green-space">Adopt a tree or green space</h3>



Many cities offer programs to adopt local trees or green areas. Caring for a tree or green space not only supports its health but also increases public awareness of its importance.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-avoid-products-that-harm-forests">Avoid products that harm forests</h3>



Minimize or eliminate purchases of products linked to deforestation, like palm oil and non-sustainable soy. Choosing eco-friendly options helps curb the destructive agricultural practices that harm forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-overview-of-tree-extinction-risk">Global overview of tree extinction risk</h2>



Dr Malin Rivers is the Global Tree Assessment lead at Botanic Gardens Conservation International.



“This comprehensive assessment presents the first global picture of the conservation status of trees, which enables us to make better informed conservation decisions and take action to protect trees where it is urgently needed,” said&nbsp;Dr. Rivers. 



“The work is a global effort, with over 1,000 tree experts involved. We need to continue to work together to scale up local, national and international tree conservation action to support people and the planet.”



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More than one-third of the world’s trees face extinction

If you're not a tree hugger now, you might want...

In the endless dance of evolution, every species must continuously adapt to survive. A recent study focuses on the tale of ancient cicadas, who had to reshape their very wings under the pressure of predation.



It's a story of survival, revealing how the arrival of insect-eating birds shook the world of these noisy insects. It's a narrative that plays out over the span of millions of years, and today, we finally have the insights to understand it.



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



The quest to understand the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trillions-of-cicadas-set-to-emerge-in-historic-u-s-invasion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary history</a> of flight has been a longstanding pursuit – one spanning hundreds of years. 



But let's face it, it's not an easy task to trace the footprints of these fragile, fleeting features – the wings. Due to their delicate structure, wings rarely preserve well enough to become fossils. Consequently, despite our keen search, the evidence-base in this area has always been rather thin.



Enter the cicadas, these unique little creatures with some extraordinary wing characteristics that set them apart and make them a valuable subject of study. 



Cicadas offer a rare glimpse into the evolution of flight in insects as they have a history of preserving well, unlike most other winged creatures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-wings-of-cicadas">Changing wings of cicadas</h2>



The researchers in this study constructed a timeline showing the evolution of cicada wings over millions of years. By studying more than 80 species of cicada wings, they unveiled an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cicada-wings-inspire-new-antibacterial-technologies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interesting pattern</a>. 



Cicadas, it appears, went through some swift wing transformations in reaction to the rapidly evolving birds that preyed on them.



Life as an ancient cicada wasn't easy. Early cicadas had wingspans comparable to modern butterflies, some even measuring up to 6 inches. But as their predators - the birds - evolved to become swifter and more efficient hunters, the cicadas had to up their game.



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



Over approximately 160 million years, cicada wings evolved. They grew wider but slimmer. The ancient insects also packed on some serious wing muscle mass. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cicada-urination-defies-what-scientists-thought-was-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adaptations</a>, the researchers argue, would have boosted their flight speeds by up to 39 percent.



This evolution of wing structure and flight speed wasn't for mere showmanship. Survival is the name of the game, and cicadas had no choice but to become faster fliers. 



They were in a wingspan war, and getting faster was the key to escape the clutches of the birds that were evolving to catch insects mid-flight. Sure, this meant burning up more energy for flight, but what better reason to burn energy than to evade ending up as a bird’s snack?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environment-in-cicada-wing-evolution">Environment in cicada wing evolution</h2>



The environment played an indisputable role in shaping cicada wing evolution. Diverse ecological niches presented various challenges and opportunities that influenced these adaptive changes. 



The ancient landscapes, replete with dense foliage and a myriad of predators, required cicadas to innovate continually. 



Their newfound wing structures enabled better maneuverability amid trees and shrubs, providing strategic advantages for feeding and mating while also serving as a critical defense mechanism. 



Notably, these environmental pressures prompted a microcosmic arms race, where cicadas continually refined their flight mechanisms as both a response to threats and a means of exploiting new ecological opportunities.



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



Understanding the evolutionary intricacies of cicada flight provides valuable insights into the broader concepts of adaptive evolution and survival strategies. 



This knowledge aids in deciphering the complex relationships between predators and prey, highlighting the dynamic interplay that drives evolution. These findings have profound implications, not only for the study of ancient species but also for contemporary biology.



For instance, they might offer clues into how current species could adapt in response to climate change and habitat disruption - a compelling reminder of evolution as a relentless, ongoing process.



As we go deeper into the story of cicadas and their evolutionary journey, we uncover layers that enrich our understanding of life's resilience and innovation.



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



This revelation about the interlinked evolution of cicadas and birds shows us once again how intricately connected all life forms are and how the struggle for survival drives evolutionary adaptation. 



Isn't it amazing how even creatures as small as <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/the-cicadas-are-coming-brood-x/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cicadas</a> have such dramatic stories of survival etched in their ancient wings?



The study was led by researchers from <a href="https://english.cas.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Sciences</a> and <a href="https://www.uni-jena.de" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena</a>. 



The findings are published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adr2201" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Cicadas grew 'super wings' to dodge ancient birds

In the endless dance of evolution, every species must continuously...

Have you ever wondered where life might exist beyond Earth in our universe? The answer could lie on Titan, Saturn's largest moon - a celestial body with an atmosphere full of methane and surface liquids in the form of rivers, lakes, and seas that are similar to those on Earth.



However, that's not all that's intriguing about Titan. Due to its subzero temperatures, Titan’s bodies of water are composed of hydrocarbons such as methane and ethane, while its land masses consist of solid water ice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-paradigm-in-titan-s-structure">New paradigm in Titan’s structure?</h2>



A recent publication in The Planetary Science Journal reveals some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturns-moon-titan-has-shorelines-shaped-by-waves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">astonishing insights</a> about Titan. 



The study, led by planetary scientists at the <a href="https://manoa.hawaii.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Hawai'i at Mānoa</a>, indicates that methane gas may reside within the ice, hence forming an isolated crust up to six miles thick.



This crust doesn't just sit there; it warms the underlying ice shell. Lead research associate Lauren Schurmeier believes this could also account for Titan’s rich methane atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-titan-s-impact-craters">Mystery of Titan’s impact craters</h2>



Titan’s impact craters also offer bewildering clues. It appears that these craters are much more shallow than expected - they are just hundreds of meters deep. Plus, only 90 of them exist on this moon.



"This was very surprising because, based on other moons, we expect to see many more impact craters on the surface and craters that are much deeper than what we observe on Titan," said Schurmeier. 



"We realized something unique to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exploring-the-tranquil-seas-of-saturns-moon-titan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Titan</a> must be making them become shallower and disappear relatively quickly."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-beneath-the-ice">What's beneath the ice?</h2>



What could be hiding beneath all that ice? Computer simulations hypothesize that a layer of insulating methane clathrate ice could be the key. These models were based on the topography of another similar-sized icy moon, Ganymede.



With this approach, the scientists could predict the methane clathrate crust's thickness to about 3 to 6 miles, which best aligns with the observed craters. 



A warmer interior resulting from this crust could cause rapid topographic relaxation, leading to craters shallowing at a rate quite similar to Earth's fast-moving warm glaciers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-titan-s-methane-rich-atmosphere">Titan's methane-rich atmosphere</h2>



Probing into the thickness of Titan’s methane ice shell shines a light on the moon’s methane-rich atmosphere and offers an understanding of its carbon cycle, liquid methane-based "hydrological cycle," and evolving climate.



"Titan is a natural laboratory to study how the greenhouse gas methane warms and cycles through the atmosphere," said Schurmeier. 



"Earth's methane clathrate hydrates, found in the permafrost of Siberia and below the arctic seafloor, are currently destabilizing and releasing methane. So, lessons from Titan can provide important insights into processes happening on Earth."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-study-of-life-beyond-earth">The study of life beyond Earth</h2>



The unique conditions found on Titan provide a fascinating possibility for the field of astrobiology - the study of life beyond Earth. Despite its frigid temperatures and hydrocarbon lakes, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragonfly-space-mission-saturn-moon-titan-gets-greenlight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Titan</a> presents one of the most Earth-like landscapes in our solar system, albeit through an entirely different composition.



The existence of complex organic molecules, along with a stable surface of lakes and seas, suggests that prebiotic chemistry - the foundation of life as we understand it - could also be occurring there.



Scientists are particularly intrigued by the potential for life-forms that rely on liquid methane, similar to how life on Earth relies on water. 



This opens a new frontier in the search for extraterrestrial life, challenging our understanding of life's adaptability in extreme conditions.



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



Looking forward, Titan remains a tantalizing target for future space exploration missions. NASA's upcoming <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/dragonfly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dragonfly mission</a>, scheduled to launch in the mid-2020s, aims to explore the moon's surface in unprecedented detail. 



This rotorcraft will traverse Titan's diverse environment, analyzing the chemical composition of the surface and atmosphere. 



By collecting data on its organic-rich surface and dense atmosphere, Dragonfly endeavors to address some of the most pressing questions posed by Titan's peculiar geology and potential habitability. 



The mission not only holds the promise of unveiling Titan's secrets but may also enrich our knowledge of prebiotic processes and the conditions that could support life on worlds vastly different from our own.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reimagining-titan-s-methane-world">Reimagining Titan's methane world</h2>



These findings open up a new perspective on Titan's geography. Given that methane clathrate is stronger and more insulating than regular water ice, an insulating crust on Titan would make its water ice shell warm and ductile.



Schurmeier suggests that it is more likely for biomarkers to reach the moon's surface if Titan’s ice shell is warm and convecting. This opens the door to uncovering the possibility of life beneath Titan’s icy surface during future missions, such as NASA's Dragonfly mission slated for a 2028 launch.



The intriguing discoveries about Titan ignite our curiosity and propel our quest for life beyond Earth. With NASA's Dragonfly mission, we are one step closer to exploring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturns-majestic-rings-will-vanish-in-just-six-months-from-now-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Titan's secrets</a> up close. 



The study is published in <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/PSJ/ad7018" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Planetary Science Journal</a>.



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Strange methane world on Titan could be a secret alien haven

Have you ever wondered where life might exist beyond Earth...

Reducing food waste is crucial for creating sustainable societies, given the vast resources required to produce and distribute food.&nbsp;



Shockingly, about one-third of all food globally goes uneaten, representing not only the waste of a valuable resource but also an avoidable environmental burden.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-waste-patterns-in-japan-nbsp">Food waste patterns in Japan&nbsp;</h2>



In Japan, the scale of this issue is especially striking, with 2.47 megatons of household food waste generated in 2021, much of which could have still been consumed.



However, detailed insights into what types of food contribute most to the issue, their associated greenhouse gas emissions, and the demographics most prone to wasting food are still largely unknown.&nbsp;



To address this gap, a team of researchers led by Professor Yosuke Shigetomi from <a href="https://en.ritsumei.ac.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ritsumeikan University</a> set out to analyze household food waste patterns in Japan.&nbsp;



“We explored the intricate quantitative structure of household food waste and their corresponding life cycle greenhouse gas emissions from raw materials to retail utilizing a combination of household- and food-related economic statistics and life cycle assessment in Japan,” noted the researchers.



The findings, published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51553-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>, highlight critical links between food waste, age demographics, and emissions.



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



Using previously collected data on food consumption, the research team examined over 2,000 food items to categorize their edible and inedible parts and the amount of waste they produce across households.&nbsp;



This large dataset, combined with socioeconomic statistics, allowed the researchers to study how wasted food varies by age and demographic factors.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-correlation-between-age-and-food-waste">Correlation between age and food waste</h2>



A major finding of the study was the link between household head age and food waste levels. Households headed by older individuals produced nearly twice the amount of food waste compared to those headed by people in their 30s.&nbsp;



Vegetables were the most frequently discarded items, followed by ready meals and fish, all contributing to significant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-food-system-must-change-if-nations-hope-to-reduce-greenhouse-gas-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas emissions</a>. These results highlight a direct connection between an aging population and the environmental impacts of food waste.&nbsp;



“An aging population would be one of the hidden but key factors for consideration when proposing strategies to reduce food waste directly generated by households,” Shigetomi said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-contributors-vegetables-and-meats">Key contributors: Vegetables and meats</h2>



The study also pinpointed specific foods as major contributors to both waste and emissions. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-fruits-and-vegetables-improve-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vegetables</a> were at the forefront of food waste across age groups, often linked to preferences and cooking habits that leave edible portions discarded.&nbsp;



Meats, while less frequently wasted, nonetheless produced substantial greenhouse gas emissions, making both categories critical targets for waste reduction.&nbsp;



“It will be essential to pay closer attention to the dietary preferences and lifestyles among different generations, particularly under the desire of dietary shifts towards vegetarianism for combating climate change,” Shigetomi explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-policy-and-public-awareness">Implications for policy and public awareness</h2>



The findings emphasize the need for targeted policies that consider generational differences in food preferences and waste habits.&nbsp;



As food-related greenhouse gasses become a growing concern in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-will-climate-change-affect-our-outdoor-activities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> discussions, these insights provide a foundation for shaping policies and campaigns that encourage mindful consumption and waste reduction.&nbsp;



Understanding which foods contribute most to waste can help in creating interventions tailored to high-impact areas, such as vegetable and ready-meal consumption in elderly households.



Public education also plays a pivotal role. Campaigns can highlight the environmental impact of waste and offer guidance on smarter storage and consumption practices.&nbsp;



By raising awareness, policymakers can help people become more mindful about meal planning, storage practices, and portioning to minimize waste.



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



As Japan and other nations strive to reduce waste, this study offers a model for examining food waste within a demographic and environmental context.&nbsp;



Shigetomi’s work opens up opportunities to address food waste through targeted interventions that align with generational dietary habits, ultimately helping to reduce environmental impacts.&nbsp;



The hope is that these findings will inspire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-food-systems-are-gaining-momentum/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable food practices</a> that benefit individuals, households, and the broader environment.



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What age group is responsible for the most food waste?

Reducing food waste is crucial for creating sustainable societies, given...

A humble yet remarkable tiny water fern has emerged as a surprising yet powerful potential solution in the global fight against food insecurity.



This unassuming plant, known as Azolla, floats on the surface of freshwater bodies. It is gaining attention in the scientific community for its rapid growth and nutrient-rich profile.



Researchers have identified Carolina azolla, a specific freshwater variant, as a particularly promising candidate to help address food insecurity, offering hope for regions struggling with hunger and malnutrition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-tiny-fern-with-huge-potential">A tiny fern with huge potential </h2>



Known for its unique properties, including its ability to double in biomass within days, this floating fern has recently been the subject of intensive scientific research to confirm its safety and viability as a food source. 



A comprehensive study from Penn State has thoroughly examined its potential, paving the way for new possibilities in sustainable agriculture and food production.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-concerns-about-toxin-content">Concerns about toxin content </h2>



Initial concerns about the toxin content of Azolla prompted experts at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a>, in collaboration with an international team of researchers, to embark on an extensive mission.



The team set out to test the plant for the presence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/algae-blooms-can-release-neurotoxins-into-the-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cyanotoxins</a>. These potent byproducts of cyanobacteria or blue-green algae are often associated with harmful effects and were suspected to be related to the fern.



The researchers discovered that Azolla is completely free of cyanotoxins, thus confirming its safety for consumption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-azolla-could-feed-millions-of-people">Azolla could feed millions of people</h2>



Daniel Winstead, the leading research technologist at Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences, emphasized the significance of the discovery.



“That finding suggests that azolla is food safe and has the potential to safely feed millions of people due to its rapid growth while free-floating on shallow fresh water without the need for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-plants-produce-their-own-nitrogen-fertilizer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nitrogen fertilizers</a>," said Winstead. 



What truly sets Azolla apart, however, is its remarkable ability to double its biomass in just two days. Additionally, it possesses the unique capability to capture nitrogen directly from the air, enriching its surrounding environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-the-presence-of-cyanotoxins">Investigating the presence of cyanotoxins </h2>



Cyanotoxins are known for their association with severe neurodegenerative disorders such as ALS and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pesticide-exposure-increases-the-risk-of-parkinsons-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Parkinson's disease</a>, alongside liver and kidney failure, muscle paralysis, and a myriad of other serious health complications. 



Upon the revelation that cyanotoxins are absent in Azolla, Winstead expressed his relief and satisfaction.



"I didn't want to be promoting the consumption of a potentially harmful plant. As I was preparing an experimental design, I was contacted by the Azolla Foundation about that organization's interest in our research," said Winstead. 



"I reached out to them and asked if they knew anyone who was looking into azolla's toxicity from cyanotoxins."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eliminating-the-cyanotoxin-concerns">Eliminating the cyanotoxin concerns</h2>



A few weeks later, he received an email from a group of researchers who were investigating the presence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cyanobacteria-may-shed-new-light-on-the-history-of-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cyanobacteria</a> and cyanotoxins in the azolla species in question, inviting Winstead to join their study.



“Together, we analyzed the results and concluded that Azolla, and more specifically a cyanobacterium that lives in cavities in the leaves of Azolla, do not produce any of the main cyanotoxins," explained Winstead.



He also explained that the cyanobacterium found in Azolla is Nostoc azollae, an endosymbiont that lives within or on the surface of the plant in a mutually beneficial relationship.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viable-and-sustainable-food-source">Viable and sustainable food source</h2>



Nostoc azollae coexists with Azolla in a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/symbiotic-relationship-plant-roots-underground-mycorrhizal-fungi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">symbiotic relationship</a>, thriving alongside the plant without producing any harmful toxins.



“More importantly, the known genes required to make these toxins are not even present within the genome of Nostoc azollae,” said Winstead.



With each successive study, the evidence supporting Azolla as a viable and sustainable food source grows. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-potential-of-azolla">Broader potential of Azolla</h2>



Beyond its potential to nourish populations worldwide, Azolla also holds promise as a new source of biofertilizer and biodiesel. It may pave the way for revolutionary advances in sustainable agriculture and energy.



As humanity continues to explore innovative solutions to global challenges, the diminutive Azolla might just hold the key to a greener and more nourished future for all. 



Its potential contribution to a sustainable world makes it an exciting subject for further exploration and investment.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2223-7747/13/19/2707" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plants</a>.



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Azolla: The tiny fern that could feed the world

A humble yet remarkable tiny water fern has emerged as...

The pursuit of energy efficiency is a constant endeavor in our modern world, and sometimes the best solutions come from the humblest sources. 



In this case, a team of scientists turned to the natural world to uncover how oscillating systems synchronize to maximize energy use. 



By studying natural rhythms, researchers hope to harness principles that could transform energy management in technology, from power grids to communication networks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-synchronization-and-energy-efficiency">Synchronization and energy efficiency</h2>



Every day, we see examples of synchronization in nature - the rhythmic beating of our hearts in harmony with our lungs, or the mesmerizing flicker of fireflies in unison.



Inspired by these examples, researchers at <a href="https://engineering.unm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The University of New Mexico School of Engineering</a> studied natural rhythms to uncover hidden strategies that could enhance synchronization efficiency.



Their mathematical exploration of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-reveal-the-secrets-of-synchronization/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">synchronization</a> uncovered that biological systems achieve efficiency by using distinct oscillation phases. If applied to human technology, this approach could yield substantial efficiency gains across various sectors.



"In terms of energy that is required for connected systems of oscillators to synchronize, our strategy shows we can have several orders of magnitude in energy savings," said Amirhossein Nazerian, a Ph.D. candidate in mechanical engineering.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-inspired-energy-solutions">Nature-inspired energy solutions</h2>



The role of synchronization in biology isn't merely a fascinating phenomenon; it carries important implications for our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emerging-technologies-will-control-global-power-balance-usa-china/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">technological world</a>. 



The lessons learned from these natural, biological systems could help improve the design and management of various types of technology like power grids and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drones-reveal-hidden-biodiversity-in-rainforest-canopies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drones</a>, by enabling them to conserve energy during oscillation. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mimicking-the-energy-efficiency-of-nature">Mimicking the energy efficiency of nature</h2>



By mimicking the precise timing observed in nature, engineers could develop systems that operate more smoothly, efficiently, and sustainably - transforming how we approach energy management.



Francesco Sorrentino is a professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and the lead researcher of the study. 



"We looked at this from a mathematical point of view and asked how systems in nature, in the human body, and in ecological and social systems synchronize. In nature, efficiency is very important, whether in animals or in cells, as these systems cannot afford to waste energy," said Professor Sorrentino.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-manipulating-coupling-strength">Manipulating coupling strength</h2>



In collaboration with Matteo Lodi at the University of Genoa and Joseph Hart at the U.S. Naval Research Lab, the UNM team made a remarkable discovery.



"Coupling strength" refers to how strongly components of an oscillating system communicate.



The researchers found that, by understanding the varied stages of oscillation in a system, they could manipulate its coupling strength - leading to a drastic reduction in energy expenditure.



This strategy involves dynamically adjusting the coupling strength depending on the phase of oscillation a system is in, allowing for precise energy control.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maximizing-energy-efficiency">Maximizing energy efficiency </h2>



This innovative approach indicates that synchronization can be achieved more efficiently if the coupling between the oscillating systems is only activated when needed, significantly minimizing essential energy expenditure and preventing unnecessary power loss.



It's an intriguing finding that may ultimately lead to the development of more energy-efficient systems.



After all, if tiny <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fireflies-use-social-cues-to-synchronize-their-lights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fireflies</a> can master the art of efficient synchronization, who's to say our power grids and advanced technologies can't do the same?



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



The insights gained from nature’s synchronization methods offer promising applications across multiple industries, where even small improvements in efficiency can lead to significant energy savings. 



For instance, in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/renewable-energy-must-be-doubled-by-2030/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">renewable energy</a> systems like wind and solar farms, synchronization can help stabilize power fluctuations by aligning the output of multiple energy sources. When these systems work in harmony, the overall energy yield is maximized with less wasted power.



In transportation networks, synchronization techniques could make autonomous vehicle fleets more energy-efficient by coordinating traffic flows, reducing stop-and-start patterns, and lowering fuel consumption. 



Healthcare technology also stands to benefit, as medical devices, such as pacemakers or diagnostic equipment, could become more reliable and energy-efficient through synchronized oscillation methods. 



By mirroring nature’s finely tuned rhythms, researchers envision a future where industries can operate more sustainably, delivering better performance with reduced environmental impact.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-52486-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Nature's rhythms inspire a new approach to energy efficiency

The pursuit of energy efficiency is a constant endeavor in...

Arctic sea ice is melting at an alarming rate, and a new study reveals that this phenomenon could have far-reaching consequences on global climate systems.



As the ice diminishes, it not only affects the immediate Arctic environment but also triggers shifts in ocean circulation patterns that can alter weather systems across the globe. 



Scientists warn that these changes could lead to more extreme weather events, including severe storms and altered precipitation patterns, underlining the urgent need to address the drivers of climate change. 



Through diligent research, a dedicated team of scientists has uncovered how the loss of Arctic sea ice may disrupt weather patterns and ocean currents, highlighting yet another critical impact of climate change driven by human actions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flashback-to-the-last-interglacial">Flashback to the Last interglacial</h2>



Researchers at the <a href="https://ic3.uit.no/research" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iC3 Polar Research Hub</a>, led by climate scientist Mohamed Ezat, have effectively turned back the Earth’s clock to examine the climate conditions during the early phase of the Last Interglacial over 100,000 years ago.



This was a period marked by significantly warmer global temperatures, reduced ice volumes, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-last-ice-age-shows-how-rising-sea-levels-will-transform-coastal-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea levels</a> that were considerably higher than those we see today. 



By studying this past warm phase, the researchers aimed to uncover critical insights into how the climate dynamics of that era could inform our understanding of present and future climate challenges, especially as Arctic sea ice continues to diminish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-delicate-balance-of-earth-s-climate">Delicate balance of Earth's climate </h2>



“Our finding that enhanced melting of Arctic sea-ice likely resulted in significant cooling in northern Europe in the earth’s past is alarming,” said Ezat. “This reminds us that the planet’s climate is a delicate balance, easily disrupted by changes in temperature and ice cover.”



The study links the warming climate and increased melting of Arctic sea ice during the Last Interglacial to shifts in regional sea-surface temperatures and ocean circulation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arctic-sea-ice-and-the-nordic-sea">Arctic sea ice and the Nordic Sea</h2>



By 2050, ice-free summer conditions could become a reality in the Arctic Ocean. Such significant melting of Arctic sea ice may trigger a cascade of climate effects, altering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-oceans-hidden-influence-on-global-weather-patterns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global weather systems</a>.



According to the study, the Nordic Sea is one of the key areas likely to be affected the most. This vital water body, located between Greenland and Norway, acts as a major conduit for oceanic heat transport, regulating temperatures and influencing weather patterns far beyond its geographical boundaries.



Disruptions in this region could lead to widespread shifts in climate systems across the Northern Hemisphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cascading-effects-of-melting-sea-ice">Cascading effects of melting sea ice</h2>



The experts found that during the Last Interglacial, enhanced melting of Arctic sea ice led to notable alterations in sea-surface temperatures and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-ocean-circulation-near-antarctica-on-the-brink-of-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean circulation</a> within the Nordic Sea.



The melting sea ice changed the salinity and density of the water, disrupting the regular flow of currents. This, in turn, caused significant shifts in circulation patterns and heat distribution across the ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-from-past-climate-events">Insights from past climate events</h2>



Drawing on insights from past climate events, researchers at the iC3 Polar Research Hub employed advanced techniques to analyze sediment cores from the Nordic Sea.



By examining biological, inorganic, and organic geochemical tracers, they reconstructed historical sea-surface temperatures, salinity levels, freshwater inputs, and deepwater formation processes. 



These sediment cores serve as time capsules, preserving crucial data about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ancient-ocean-water-shaped-early-life-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient ocean</a> conditions. Yet, many mysteries remain. 



“We can learn a lot from the still open question of the Last Interglacial cooling in the Norwegian Sea and potential responsible processes,” said Ezat. 



“We hope that our study provides a benchmark for climate modelers to utilize this time period to better constrain the impacts of ice changes on regional and global climate.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-major-changes-in-ocean-circulation">Major changes in ocean circulation </h2>



Earlier this month, dozens of climate scientists warned in an open letter that climate change is generating a serious risk of a major ocean circulation change in the Atlantic that would have devastating and irreversible impacts.



As Arctic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-ice-caps-changing-earths-rotation-need-negative-leap-second/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice caps melt</a> and the years tick by, we are reminded of the turbulent effects of our actions. 



This research by the iC3 Polar Research Hub sheds light on the past to pave the way for a more informed future, hopefully steering us clear of climate catastrophe.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-53401-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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How melting Arctic sea ice could disrupt Earth's climate

Arctic sea ice is melting at an alarming rate, and...

Have you ever wondered how the future would be with humans and AI working together to solve complex problems and make critical decisions?



This intriguing subject has been the focus for researchers at the MIT Center for Collective Intelligence (<a href="https://cci.mit.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CCI</a>). Their latest findings might have you looking at this idealistic vision with a more discerning eye.



The team included doctoral student Michelle Vaccaro, Professor Abdullah Almaatouq, and Professor Thomas Malone. The researchers chose to steer clear of the often-debated topic of AI's potential to replace humans in certain jobs.



Instead, they wanted to delve into questions such as: When do humans and AI work together <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-will-outsmart-humans-when-we-crack-the-neural-code/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">most effectively</a>? How can organizations ensure these partnerships succeed?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-on-human-ai-systems">Focus on human-AI systems </h2>



The study authors noted that people are increasingly working with artificial intelligence (AI) tools in fields such as medicine, finance and law, as well as in daily activities such as traveling, shopping, and communicating. 



"These human-AI systems have tremendous potential given the complementary nature of humans and AI - the general intelligence of humans allows us to reason about diverse problems, and the computational power of AI systems allows them to accomplish specific tasks that people find difficult."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-does-ai-perform-better-alone">Does AI perform better alone?</h2>



The researchers conducted a meta-analysis that spanned over 370 results from 106 different experiments. 



The experiments compared three different ways of performing tasks - with only humans, with only AI, and with collaborations.



What the researchers discovered was a fascinating contradiction to the prevailing belief that the symbiosis of humans and AI would always lead to better outcomes. 



Human-AI teams indeed performed better than humans alone. However, they did not surpass the capabilities of AI systems operating on their own.



“There’s a prevailing assumption that integrating AI into a process will always <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-ai-systems-learn-like-the-human-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">help performance</a> - but we show that that isn’t true,” said Vaccaro. “In some cases, it’s beneficial to leave some tasks solely for humans, and some tasks solely for AI.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-ai-performance">Human-AI performance</h2>



The type of task also played a significant role in the effectiveness of collaboration. Decision-making tasks like classifying deep fakes, forecasting demand, and diagnosing medical cases were better tackled by AI alone.



Yet, when looking at creative tasks like summarizing social media posts or generating new content and imagery, it was found that human-AI teams often outperformed both people and AI working independently.



“Even though AI in recent years has mostly been used to support decision-making by analyzing large amounts of data, some of the most promising opportunities for human-AI combinations now are in supporting the creation of new content, such as text, images, music, and video,” said Malone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dual-nature-of-creative-tasks">Dual nature of creative tasks</h2>



The researchers attributed this unique advantage in creative tasks to their dual nature. While creativity, knowledge, and insight are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-put-too-much-trust-in-ai-even-for-life-or-death-decisions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vital human talents</a> in these tasks, they also involve repetitive work where AI often excels.



“There is a lot of potential in combining humans and AI, but we need to think more critically about it,” said Vaccaro. “The effectiveness is not necessarily about the baseline performance of either of them, but about how they work together and complement each other.”



This study's findings offer crucial insights for organizations aiming at successfully integrating AI into their workplaces. The research team advises organizations to assess whether collaborations would actually outperform either entity working independently.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-human-ai-collaboration">Future of human-AI collaboration</h2>



"“Many organizations may be overestimating the effectiveness of their current systems,” noted Vaccaro. “They need to get a pulse on how well they’re working."



Additionally, organizations should evaluate how AI could assist their workers, especially in creative tasks, and establish robust guidelines for AI usage. The idea should be to leverage the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-helps-humans-have-20-minute-conversation-with-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complementary strengths</a>. 



“Let AI handle the background research, pattern recognition, predictions, and data analysis, while harnessing human skills to spot nuances and apply contextual understanding,” Malone suggested. In other words: “Let humans do what they do best.”



As the researchers continue to explore the potential of artifical intelligence, they firmly believe that the future does not lie in replacing humans, but in finding innovative ways for both to work together effectively.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41562-024-02024-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Human Behaviour.</a>



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Do humans and AI work better together?

Have you ever wondered how the future would be with...

In early October 2024, comet C/2023 A3 - better known as Tsuchinshan-ATLAS - made an unforgettable appearance as it passed between the Earth and the Sun, offering scientists a rare and spectacular view.&nbsp;



This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-anticipated-comet-of-2024-returns-this-weekend-after-80000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">comet</a>, which was discovered in 2023, was captured by the <a href="https://www.nrl.navy.mil/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Naval Research Laboratory</a>’s (NRL) Large Angle and Spectrometric Coronagraph (LASCO) aboard the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO).&nbsp;



For several days, LASCO tracked the comet, producing breathtaking images of its journey, especially its massive dust trail, which remained visible even after the nucleus had moved away.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comet-flyby-and-solar-space-weather">Comet flyby and solar space weather</h2>



LASCO principal investigator Karl Battams described the event as “one of the most spectacular that we have seen,” with the dense dust trail coalescing in a unique formation that spanned the entire field of view.&nbsp;



This rare view occurred because the SOHO spacecraft crossed the comet’s orbital plane, allowing it to observe the dust trail edge-on. This phenomenon has never been seen in such detail.



While Tsuchinshan-ATLAS didn’t surpass the brilliance of Comet McNaught from 2007, it still earned the distinction of being the second brightest comet observed by LASCO, reaching a visual magnitude of -4.0.&nbsp;



The comet’s passage also presented a scientific opportunity, as its dust and gas tails likely interacted with solar outflows, potentially offering new insights into the near-Sun environment and solar space weather.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-ejections-and-stunning-halos">Solar ejections and stunning halos</h2>



Around the same time, NRL’s Compact Coronagraph (CCOR) instrument also achieved significant milestones by collecting its first images of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strong-solar-storm-warning-issued-as-two-cmes-will-hit-earth-tomorrow/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coronal mass ejections</a> (CMEs).&nbsp;



Launched aboard <a href="https://www.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOAA</a>’s GOES-19 spacecraft in June 2024, CCOR is designed to observe the outer atmosphere of the Sun - known as the solar corona - by creating an artificial eclipse using an occulter to block the Sun’s glare.



One of the most striking observations occurred on October 3, when CCOR captured a halo CME, a type of solar ejection that appears as a near-circular shape around the Sun.&nbsp;



This particular CME resulted in visible northern lights across much of the northern United States, a stunning reminder of the Sun’s powerful influence on Earth.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-space-weather-in-real-time">Monitoring space weather in real time</h2>



Another halo CME followed on October 10, linked to an active region on the Sun’s surface, further showcasing CCOR’s capability to monitor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-weather-poses-significant-risks-to-railway-safety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space weather</a> in real-time.



“By creating an artificial eclipse, the CCOR allows scientists to study the Sun's corona, which can produce powerful solar storms that can disrupt Earth-based technologies,” said Arnaud Thernisien, a research physicist at NRL.&nbsp;



These observations are critical as they provide early warnings for solar storms that have the potential to interfere with satellites, communications, and even power grids on Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-comets-and-solar-activity-nbsp">Understanding comets and solar activity&nbsp;</h2>



The recent data collected from Tsuchinshan-ATLAS and CMEs illustrate the vital role of NRL’s instruments in advancing our understanding of both comets and solar activity.&nbsp;



The LASCO instrument, which has been operational for nearly 30 years, continues to be instrumental in studying the Sun and its surroundings. It also contributes to the Sungrazer Project, a citizen science initiative responsible for discovering over half of all documented comets.



Meanwhile, CCOR-1, the first operational coronagraph in the United States, represents a breakthrough in solar observation. It provides near real-time data crucial for space weather forecasting, allowing scientists to predict and mitigate the effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solar-storm-triggered-stunning-auroras-worldwide-october-11-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar storms</a>.&nbsp;



This success is only the beginning, with CCOR-2 slated for launch in 2025 and a compact coronagraph planned for the European Space Agency’s Vigil mission in 2031.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-space-observation">The future of space observation</h2>



As these cutting-edge instruments continue to push the boundaries of space observation, researchers are already looking to the future.&nbsp;



With CCOR’s successful observations of CMEs and LASCO’s continued monitoring of celestial objects like Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, scientists are gaining unprecedented insights into the interactions between comets, solar activity, and space weather.



“NRL’s instruments are providing a wealth of information that helps us understand the dynamics of space weather and the broader solar environment,” said Thernisien.&nbsp;



The collaboration between <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, NOAA, and international partners promises to enhance our ability to predict solar storms and understand the fundamental processes shaping our solar system.



As comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS continues its journey back to the Oort Cloud and beyond, and as CCOR-1 and LASCO maintain their vigilant watch on the Sun, the data gathered will be invaluable for future missions and discoveries in the ever-evolving field of space science.



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What can comets tell us about solar activity and space weather?

In early October 2024, comet C/2023 A3 - better known...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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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

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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

[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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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

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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

Satellites have become essential to our survival

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