Black holes lie at the heart of an extraordinary cosmic event that is currently unfolding. With the help of NASA's Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, scientists have detected a peculiar phenomenon involving a pair of what they refer to as "monster" black holes.



"It’s a very weird event, called AT 2021hdr, that keeps recurring every few months," explained Lorena Hernández-García, an astrophysicist at the Millennium Institute of Astrophysics, the Millennium Nucleus on Transversal Research and Technology to Explore Supermassive Black Holes, and the University of Valparaíso in Chile.



This cosmic spectacle is believed to involve the two monstrous black holes engulfing an unsuspecting gas cloud. As these massive bodies orbit each other, their gravitational forces interact with the cloud, stirring and consuming its gas.



This process creates an oscillating pattern of light emissions that scientists have been observing for months during the dramatic and recurring cosmic performances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dance-of-the-monster-black-holes">The dance of the monster black holes</h2>



The monster black holes reside deep within a galaxy known as 2MASX J21240027+3409114. This celestial neighborhood is nestled about 1 billion light-years away in the northern constellation Cygnus.



Trapped in their eternal celestial dance, the black holes are separated by around 16 billion miles, a distance close enough for light to travel between them within a day. 



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monster-black-hole-is-spinning-in-the-nearby-galaxy-m87-study-confurms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic giants</a> together have a mass 40 million times that of our own sun. The researchers have determined that these black holes complete a single orbit every 130 days.



Looking into the far future, by about 70,000 years to be precise, the scientists predict a grand finale when these twin behemoths finally collide and merge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysterious-recurring-outbursts">Mysterious recurring outbursts</h2>



The journey to uncovering AT 2021hdr began in March 2021, when the Caltech-led ZTF (Zwicky Transient Facility) at the Palomar Observatory in California identified it as an unusual source. 



The event was quickly flagged by ALeRCE (Automatic Learning for the Rapid Classification of Events), a collaborative team that integrates artificial intelligence with human analysis to sift through extensive survey data and highlight significant night sky phenomena for the astronomical community.



With initial ideas attributing the flare to a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a>, the recurring nature of the outbursts prompted a shift in hypotheses. Since the first flare, the event has consistently produced outbursts, roughly every 60 to 90 days.



Study co-author Alejandra Muñoz-Arancibia is an ALeRCE team member and astrophysicist at the Millennium Institute of Astrophysics and the Center for Mathematical Modeling at the <a href="https://uchile.cl/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Chile</a>.



“Although this flare was originally thought to be a supernova, outbursts in 2022 made us think of other explanations,” said Muñoz-Arancibia. “Each subsequent event has helped us refine our model of what’s going on in the system.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monster-black-holes-devour-a-gas-cloud">Monster black holes devour a gas cloud</h2>



The researchers left no stone unturned in their quest to unravel this cosmic mystery. Their efforts rewarded them with a revelation: the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supermassive-binary-black-holes-secrets-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">binary system</a> produces oscillations in ultraviolet and X-ray light on the same time scales as ZTF observes in the visible range.



Through a process of elimination, the experts first dismissed the possibility of regular activity in the galactic center being the cause. Next, they eliminated the chance of a star wandering too close to the black holes and being ripped apart. 



Eventually, the scientists settled on the theory of a gas cloud, much larger than the binary itself, meeting its fate at the hands of the twin black holes. As the cloud approached the black holes, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/theory-gravity-exists-without-mass-so-dark-matter-does-not-exist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gravity</a> tore it apart, forming filaments around the pair, and the ensuing friction started to heat it.



As the gas cloud got denser and hotter near the black holes, the complex interplay of forces spewed out some of the gas with each rotation - causing the fluctuations in light that Swift and ZTF have been observing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unveiling-the-grandeur-of-the-universe">Unveiling the grandeur of the universe </h2>



Looking ahead, the scientists plan to continue their observations of AT 2021hdr. They anticipate further insights into the system and aim to hone their models. 



In particular, the scientists are interested in studying the host galaxy of AT 2021hdr, which is currently merging with another nearby galaxy – a phenomenon that they were the first to report.



Reflecting on the mission, S. Bradley Cenko, Swift’s principal investigator at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, expresses his pride and awe at the discoveries that Swift continues to enable as it approaches its 20th anniversary. 



"There’s still so much it has left to teach us about our ever-changing cosmos," said Cenko.



Through this venture, NASA continues its commitment to unveiling the grandeur of our universe and deciphering its many mysteries. 



Its missions are an integral part of an expanding, global network that observes the sky unceasingly to unravel <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-dark-matter-does-not-exist-and-the-universe-is-27-billion-years-old/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">how the universe works</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1051/0004-6361/202451305">Astronomy and Astrophysics.</a>



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Monster black holes are trapped in an eternal dance

Black holes lie at the heart of an extraordinary cosmic event that is currently unfolding. With the help of NASA's Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, scientists have detected a peculiar phenomenon involving a pair of what they refer to as "monster" black holes. "It’s a very weird event, called AT 2021hdr, that keeps recurring every few months," explained Lorena Hernández-García, an astrophysicist at the Millennium Institute of Astrophysics, the Millennium Nucleus on Transversal Research and Technology to Explore Supermassive Black Holes, and the University of Valparaíso in Chile....

For more than six decades, Antarctica and its resources have stood as a symbol of peace and cooperation. This vast wilderness, untouched by war and unspoiled by human hands, has been a sanctuary for scientific curiosity and discovery.



<a href="https://www.ats.aq/e/antarctictreaty.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Antarctica Treaty</a>, established in 1961, provided a framework that has maintained this delicate balance. 



It encouraged peaceful exploration, enabling nations such as Britain, Argentina, Australia, Norway, France, New Zealand, and Chile to lay claim to territory, yet restricted these claims in favor of scientific research. 



The treaty has endured because defying it was simply too difficult or costly, noted Tom Sharpe, a former Royal Navy icebreaker captain.



However, Sharpe pointed out that as soon as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-are-intense-heat-waves-affecting-life-in-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctica's</a> vast resources become economically worth the risk of exploiting, things will change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controlling-antarctica-s-resources">Controlling Antarctica's resources</h2>



For years, the Antarctic Treaty served as an exemplar of effective global cooperation. But now, this time-tested model is showing signs of wear and tear. 



Emerging heavyweights like China, Russia, and other nations are nudging the Antarctic Treaty into uncharted waters, threatening a new scramble for control of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ozone-hole-may-fully-recover-by-2066/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resource-rich continent</a>.



The United States, although still boasting the primary footprint in Antarctica, is seeing rapid competition from China. Just recently, China completed its fifth base on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-is-greening-at-an-unprecedented-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">continent</a>, purportedly dedicated to 'scientific purposes'.



Meanwhile, Russia seems equally intent on increasing its presence. This move, according to Dr. Lyn Goldsworthy from the University of Tasmania, is part of their broader strategy to shake up the world's rule-based order.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-loopholes-and-ambitions">Loopholes and ambitions</h2>



Despite a ban on mining until 2048, these new players are publicly advertising their ambitious plans for resource extraction from Antarctica.



Yet, what truly matters, as Sharpe warns, isn't just the overt ambitions. It's the more subtle maneuvers, such as using military personnel for peaceable purposes, that might one day translate into property rights. 



With countries like Russia, China, and India capitalizing on this - alongside Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Iran keen on securing a foothold - the Antarctic landscape is changing fast.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modernizing-the-treaty">Modernizing the treaty</h2>



These unfolding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-past-present-and-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dynamics</a> have led to calls for modernizing the Antarctic Treaty. Yet achieving the unanimous support needed for this overhaul seems a far cry away, considering the geopolitical stakes and reach of nations like Russia and China.



A coherent strategy, bolstered by people, inspectors, ships, and enforcement mechanisms, is needed more than ever to uphold the existing treaty.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-antarctica-s-resources">Protecting Antarctica's resources</h2>



Amid growing geopolitical tensions, it is crucial not to overlook the pressing environmental concerns facing Antarctica. 



The continent is home to unique ecosystems and wildlife that are highly sensitive to human activities and climate change. The melting ice sheets are a stark reminder of the broader implications of global warming. 



Research indicates that Antarctica's ice holds enough water to raise global sea levels by several meters, emphasizing the urgent need for international collaboration in mitigating climate change effects. 



Sustainable environmental policies and practices must be prioritized to preserve Antarctica's pristine environment for future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quest-for-peaceful-exploration">Quest for peaceful exploration </h2>



Science has long served as a unifying force in Antarctica, offering a neutral ground for collaboration and knowledge exchange. As geopolitical ambitions intensify, scientific cooperation assumes even greater significance. 



Research initiatives, such as climate studies and biodiversity assessments, provide invaluable insights while promoting diplomatic relations between countries. Strengthening scientific partnerships in Antarctica can serve as a pivotal means to diffuse tensions and refocus efforts on shared goals. 



By championing science-driven diplomacy, nations can uphold the spirit of the Antarctic Treaty and ensure that peaceful exploration and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-will-the-antarctic-ice-sheet-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> triumph over rivalry and exploitation.



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



The need for consensus, however, extends beyond the physical landscape. As Sharpe notes, if consensus seems elusive for issues like Ukraine, Gaza, the Arctic and the China Sea, how can we hope to achieve it for the remote, inaccessible Antarctic? 



Despite its flaws, the Antarctic Treaty has managed to keep the peace for more than 60 years. But the waters are getting murky, threatening a collapse that could trigger chaos in the polar south.



Only time will tell what lies ahead for Antarctica. For now, it remains a symbol of what we can achieve when we let shared curiosity and respect for our planet take precedence over national interests and territorial ambitions.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Antarctica’s peace is at risk as nations race for resources

For more than six decades, Antarctica and its resources have...

Vampire bats are the only mammals that live solely off blood. Their feeding habits may be the stuff of horror stories, but they have an interesting form of metabolism that sets them apart from other vertbrates.



Most vertebrates, including humans, use carbohydrates and fats for a source of energy. But these nutrients are in short supply in blood, the only food eaten by vampire bats. 



Researchers Ken Welch, from the <a href="https://learn.utoronto.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toronto</a>, and Giulia Rossi who is now at McMaster University in Hamilton, Canada, wondered how vampire bats actually get the energy they need for survival, when they have such a simple diet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eating-habits-of-the-night-stalker">Eating habits of the night stalker</h2>



Vampire bats can fly from place to place, like other bats, but they also do a lot of walking. In particular, they are known to creep silently up to a sleeping animal, like a cow, in the dark of night. For this, they walk along the ground on all four limbs. 



They have razor-sharp teeth that cut into the sleeping host without causing any pain. The incision, along with the bat's anticoagulant saliva, cause blood to ooze out. This is lapped up by the bat. 



Rossi and Welch wondered how vampire bats can survive on such a simple <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bats-diets-offer-clues-on-how-to-protect-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diet</a> that is apparently deficient in carbohydrates and fats. To investigate, they caught 24 vampire bats while on location in Belize, Central America.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovative-approach-to-studying-metabolism">Innovative approach to studying metabolism</h2>



Revealing how vampire bats manage their metabolism comes with significant challenges, as traditional equipment for tracking metabolism in flying animals is cumbersome and awkward. This can interfere with natural movement and skew the results.



To overcome this, Rossi and Welch capitalized on the fact that vampire bats stalk their prey by walking or running along the ground. The researchers set the bats on a specially-designed bat treadmill that was placed inside a small enclosure. 



The speed of the treadmill was increased gradually, until the bats were running along at around 30 meters per minute. With this method, the researchers could accurately measure metabolism without influencing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-bats-and-human-infants-engage-in-similar-babbling-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bats' behavior</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-source-of-energy-for-vampire-bats">Source of energy for vampire bats </h2>



Sensors monitored oxygen intake and carbon dioxide released in the bat's breath, while the source of the energy for respiration was determined using isotopically labeled cow blood.



The results revealed that the vampire bats were using amino acids for energy, rather than metabolizing carbohydrates or fats. Amino acids derive from the digestion of proteins and are a common component in blood.



This discovery indicates that the bats get their energy from their recent blood meal, similar to the way that blood-feeding tsetse flies or mosquitoes do.&nbsp; 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-metabolic-miracles-of-vampire-bats">Metabolic miracles of vampire bats</h2>



Most mammals can use amino acids as a source of energy if they are short on carbohydrates and fats, so the basic bat chemistry isn’t that unusual. 



“In most of us mammals, some kind of biochemical pathways can break down amino acids for fuel or some other use, but they’re built to slowly churn along in the background," explained Ken Welch. 



Unlike fats that can be stored and used when needed, amino acids cannot be stored as an energy reserve. These bats must therefore feed daily to avoid starvation - a characteristic that gives them the reputation for being voracious blood-suckers.



Yet, they manage to navigate this challenge, surviving each night with precision and resilience one drop of blood at a time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bat-adaptations-beyond-metabolism">Bat adaptations beyond metabolism</h2>



While this unique metabolic activity of vampire bats is fascinating, their survival relies on more than just physiology. These creatures have evolved impressive adaptations to ensure their nightly success. One of the key adaptations is their highly developed sensory system.



Vampire bats possess specialized heat sensors, located on their noses, that allow them to detect the blood vessels of their prey with pinpoint accuracy.



This enables them to make precise incisions, ensuring minimal disturbance to the host and a steady <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vampire-bats-hunt-for-food-with-their-friends/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food</a> supply.



Moreover, their sharp teeth and anticoagulant saliva play crucial roles in their feeding process. The bat's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolutionary-secrets-how-bat-teeth-adapted-to-their-diverse-diets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">teeth</a> are so fine and sharp that their bite is virtually painless, while their saliva contains a compound called draculin that prevents blood from clotting, ensuring a continuous flow while they feed. 



These adaptations highlight that vampire bats are highly specialized creatures that rely on a suite of traits extending beyond their metabolic feats to master their environment and thrive against the odds.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsbl.2024.0453" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biology Letters</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Vampire bats get energy from an unusual source

Vampire bats are the only mammals that live solely off...

Closeup,Woman's,Hands,Cutting,Philodendron,White,Wizard,Plant,Stem,For

Have you ever talked or sang to a plant or a tree? Or maybe walked through a garden and wondered if the flowers were trying to tell you something? Fascinating new research suggests that plants seem to be emitting sounds and engaging in unheard conversations, especially when they're stressed.



Lilach Hadany, an evolutionary biologist and theoretician, led a team that uncovered this surprising phenomenon. 



They found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tomatoes-acylsugars-parallel-universe-plant-kingdom-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants like tomatoes</a> and tobacco emit sounds when they're stressed, such as when they're dehydrated or their stems are cut.



"Even in a quiet field, there are actually sounds that we don't hear, and those sounds carry information," says Hadany. 



"There are animals that can hear these sounds, so there is the possibility that a lot of acoustic interaction is occurring."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-emit-sounds-when-they-re-stressed">Plants emit sounds when they're stressed</h2>



Using sensitive microphones, the researchers at <a href="https://english.tau.ac.il/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tel Aviv University</a> recorded these plants in both soundproof chambers and noisier greenhouses. 



They discovered that stressed plants emit sounds resembling pops or clicks -- imagine the sound of bubble wrap being popped. 



In fact, a single <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-plants-respond-to-specific-stress-situations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stressed plant</a> can produce about 30 to 50 of these clicks every hour.



"When tomatoes are not stressed at all, they are very quiet," Hadany notes. What's fascinating is that these sounds are at frequencies too high for human ears to detect. 



However, they are comparable in volume to normal human conversation and could potentially be heard by insects, mammals, and perhaps <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-capture-plant-communication-on-video/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">even other plants</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-hear-sounds-from-plants">How to hear sounds from plants</h2>



To delve deeper, the team trained a machine-learning algorithm to differentiate between the sounds of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sensors-that-detect-plant-stress-could-revolutionize-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unstressed plants</a>, thirsty plants, and those that had been cut. 



They found that not only do <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-have-a-secret-weapon-for-surviving-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stressed plants</a> emit more sounds, but the types of sounds also vary depending on the kind of stress.



Water-deprived plants began making noises even before showing visible signs of dehydration. 



The frequency of their sounds peaked after five days without water and then decreased as the plants <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tomato-plants-use-their-roots-to-ration-water-during-drought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dried up completely</a>.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="sBuOk5UI4R-4000606-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-there-a-universal-plant-language">Is there a universal plant language?</h2>



While the study focused on tomatoes and tobacco due to their ease of cultivation, the team didn't stop there.



"We found that many plants -- corn, wheat, grape, and cactus plants, for example -- emit sounds when they are stressed," says Hadany.



This raises the possibility that emitting sounds under stress might be a common trait among plants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-this-happen">How does this happen?</h2>



The exact reason plants produce these noises is still a mystery. One theory is that the sounds result from cavitation -- the formation and bursting of air bubbles in the plant's vascular system.



But are plants <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-emit-faint-glow-sif-when-flash-droughts-imminent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intentionally communicating</a> with these sounds?



"It's possible that other organisms could have evolved to hear and respond to these sounds," Hadany suggests. 



"For example, a moth that intends to lay eggs on a plant or an animal that intends to eat a plant could use the sounds to help <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-plants-make-life-and-death-decisions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">guide their decision</a>."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-the-natural-world">Implications for the natural world</h2>



If insects or other animals can detect these sounds, it could have significant ecological implications. Other plants might also be listening in.



"If other plants have information about stress before it actually occurs, they could prepare," says Hadany.



Previous studies have shown that plants can respond to sounds and vibrations. For instance, some plants increase the sugar concentration in their nectar when they "hear" the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stressed-out-bees-get-depressed-and-make-bad-decisions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">buzz of pollinators</a>.



Yossi Yovel, a neuro-ecologist at Tel Aviv University and co-senior author of the study, is excited about the potential applications of this discovery.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/plants-make-sounds_stress_screams_credit-Tel-Aviv-Uni_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/plants-make-sounds_stress_screams_credit-Tel-Aviv-Uni_1s.webp" alt="Plants heard making &quot;screaming&quot; sounds, likely from stress, for the first time ever. Credit: Tel Aviv University" class="wp-image-1950033"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Plants heard making "screaming" sounds, likely from stress, for the first time ever. This photo shows the recording equipment used in the experiment. Credit: Tel Aviv University</figcaption></figure>



"We know that there's a lot of ultrasound out there -- every time you use a microphone, you find that a lot of stuff produces sounds that we humans cannot hear -- but the fact that plants are making these sounds opens a whole new avenue of opportunities for communication, eavesdropping, and exploitation of these sounds," Yovel explains.



Understanding these plant sounds could revolutionize how we approach agriculture. Farmers might one day use sound recordings to monitor crop hydration and stress levels, leading to more efficient water use.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-steps-in-plant-sound-research">Next steps in plant sound research</h2>



"So now that we know that plants do emit sounds, the next question is -- 'who might be listening?'" says Hadany. 



"We are currently investigating the responses of other organisms, both animals and plants, to these sounds, and we're also exploring our ability to identify and interpret the sounds in completely natural environments," Hadany concluded.



To sum it all up, by discovering that stressed plants emit sounds, researchers like Lilach Hadany and Yossi Yovel have unveiled a hidden layer of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-rhythms-inspire-a-new-approach-to-energy-efficiency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication in nature</a>. 



These ultrasonic clicks and pops, though inaudible to us, could be influencing how insects, animals, and even other plants interact with their environment.



This finding change our understanding of plant behavior while opening practical applications in agriculture. 



By listening to these silent signals, farmers could monitor crop stress levels and optimize watering, leading to more efficient farming practices. 



As we continue to explore this unseen world of plant acoustics, we're reminded of how much there is still to learn about the silent conversations happening all around us.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0092867423002623" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell</a>.



Video Credit: Tel-Aviv University



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

Plants heard making 'screaming' sounds for the first time ever

Have you ever talked or sang to a plant or...

Mars, our celestial neighbor, has been hiding a secret for billions of years. Thanks to the relentless efforts of scientists and advanced technology, we now have more evidence supporting a long-debated theory about an ancient and vast ocean on Mars.



A Chinese rover has brought forth evidence that hints at the likelihood of a massive ocean, covering almost a third of the Red Planet, that existed billions of years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chinese-rover-makes-a-huge-discovery">Chinese rover makes a huge discovery</h2>



In 2021, China made an impressive stride in space exploration. Its Zhurong rover landed on Mars' northern hemisphere, specifically the Utopia region. 



This area had previously shown signs of ancient water presence, and now, it was time for a closer investigation.



The rover has been examining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/does-life-exist-below-the-icy-surface-of-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>' intriguing red terrain and its latest findings are truly mind-blowing. 



According to the study, the rover's landing area was riddled with “pitted cones, polygonal troughs, and etched flows" -- features that indicate the presence of an ocean in the past.



The possibility of mud volcanoes forming those crater-like pitted cones has been suggested. These are often seen in areas where water or ice existed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-ocean-on-mars">Ancient ocean on Mars</h2>



The research was led by Bo Wu, a scientist at <a href="https://www.polyu.edu.hk/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Hong Kong Polytechnic University</a>. According to the findings, the Martian ocean might have been created from a massive flood about 3.7 billion years ago.



Over time, the ocean froze, carving out a coastline, and around 3.4 billion years ago, it disappeared.



Bo Wu, however, maintained an open stance on these findings. He stated that the team does not claim their findings definitively prove that there was an ocean on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-mars-became-uninhabitable-after-being-life-supporting-ocean-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>. Martian rocks may be required for a more detailed study to settle the debate.



Benjamin Cardenas, a scientist from <a href="https://www.psu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pennsylvania State University</a>, expressed skepticism about the new study. 



He felt the research had not factored in the impact of the Martian wind, which could have significantly altered the planet's terrain over billions of years.



Despite his skepticism, Cardenas is not entirely dismissive of the ocean theory. "I tend to think there was an ocean on Mars," he stated.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-an-ocean-on-mars">Implications of an ocean on Mars</h2>



The discovery of a potential ancient ocean on Mars has profound implications for the ever-evolving search for extraterrestrial life. 



Liquid water is considered one of the essential prerequisites for life, and the existence of a vast ocean significantly increases the possibility that primitive life forms could have once inhabited the Red Planet. 



Understanding the duration and conditions of this ocean can provide vital clues about whether Mars had the right environment to support microbial life. 



While no direct evidence of life has been found, this latest revelation strengthens the case for continued exploration and study. 



There is particularly a need for missions focused on collecting and analyzing Martian soil and rock samples.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-critical-site-for-future-exploration">A critical site for future exploration</h2>



Looking ahead, the findings encourage a renewed focus on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-curiosity-rover-makes-surprising-find-under-martian-rock-sulfur-crystals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a> as a critical site for future exploration. 



Space agencies like NASA, ESA, and CNSA are already planning ambitious missions to further investigate the mysteries that the Martian surface holds.



One key objective is to obtain more conclusive evidence of past oceans and other potential water sources, which could further validate the likelihood of life. 



New technologies, such as more advanced rovers and possibly even manned missions, are being designed to unlock Mars' secrets and bring us closer to answering one of humanity's most profound questions: 



Are we alone in the universe? As these missions progress, the Red Planet continues to captivate scientists and enthusiasts alike, offering an unyielding promise of discovery and wonder.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-was-there-life-on-mars">Was there life on Mars?</h2>



The potential discovery of an ancient ocean on Mars opens up a thrilling possibility - could there have been life on Mars?



"Most scientists think life on Earth sprung up either under the ocean where hot gases and minerals from the subsurface came to the seafloor, or very close to the interface of water and air, in little tidal pools," noted Cardenas. "So, evidence for an&nbsp;ocean&nbsp;makes the planet appear more hospitable."



Did our neighbor Mars harbor life billions of years ago? The answer to this question might lie beneath the intriguing red surface of the Martian land.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-75507-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

China's Zhurong Mars rover finds evidence of a vast Martian ocean

Mars, our celestial neighbor, has been hiding a secret for...

Researchers have unveiled an exceptional golden fossil from an ancient era. It is beautifully preserved and frozen in time, yet appears ready to spring into life at any moment.



This 450-million-year-old, 3D-preserved entity is not just any fossil. The original living animal came to rest where pyrite (fool's gold) was present in the water, and this mineral entered the tissues, resulting in a fossil that glows golden. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-golden-arthropod">A golden arthropod</h2>



"As well as having their beautiful and striking golden color, these fossils are spectacularly preserved. They look as if they could just get up and scuttle away," noted <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a> Professor Luke Parry.



The specimen, a new species named Lomankus edgecombei, is related to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spiders-turn-to-cannibalism-when-food-sources-are-limited/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiders</a>, centipedes, scorpions, and horseshoe crabs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intriguing-origin-and-evolution">Intriguing origin and evolution</h2>



Lomankus belongs to a group of arthropods known as megacheirans, which are characterized by the presence of a large, modified leg - or "great appendage" -- for seizing prey.



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-did-the-first-animals-appear-on-earth-we-are-now-one-step-closer-to-knowing-the-answer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cambrian Period</a>, which spanned between 538 and 485 million years ago, was rife with megacheirans. They were thought to be predators mostly, using their unusual great appendage to secure prey. 



But most of the species died off and disappeared from the fossil record by the Ordovician Period (485 - 443 million years ago).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-golden-piece-of-the-arthropod-puzzle">Golden piece of the arthropod puzzle</h2>



The discovery of Lomankus is like unearthing a golden piece of a giant puzzle -- it provides crucial insights into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-fossil-sheds-light-on-arthropod-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a> of the specialized head appendages of arthropods.



All arthropods have one or more pairs of legs at the front of their bodies that are modified for special functions, like sensing the surroundings or catching prey. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ancient-insect_fools-gold_Lomankus-edgecombei_credit-Luke-Perry_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ancient-insect_fools-gold_Lomankus-edgecombei_credit-Luke-Perry_1s.webp" alt="The holotype specimen of Lomankus edgecombei. Photograph at left, other images at right are 3D models from CT scanning. Credit: Luke Parry (photograph), Yu Liu, Ruixin Ran (3D models)." class="wp-image-1950019"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The holotype specimen of Lomankus edgecombei. Photograph at left, other images at right are 3D models from CT scanning. Credit: Luke Parry (photograph), Yu Liu, Ruixin Ran (3D models).</figcaption></figure>



Such appendages include the antennae of insects and <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fmeet-melita-panda-the-black-and-white-crustacean-shrimp%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crustaceans</a>, and the pincers and fangs of spiders and scorpions.



"Today, there are more species of arthropod than any other group of animals on Earth. Part of the key to this success is their highly adaptable head and its appendages, that has adapted to various challenges like a biological Swiss army knife," said Professor Parry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whip-like-appendages-for-navigation">Whip-like appendages for navigation </h2>



The head appendages of Lomankus tell an interesting tale. Unlike its megacheiran relatives who used their great appendages primarily for hunting, Lomankus had reduced claws and was equipped with long, whip-like feelers that could have had a sensory, rather than a predatory role.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ancient-insect_fools-gold_Lomankus-edgecombei_head_scans_credit-Luke-Perry_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ancient-insect_fools-gold_Lomankus-edgecombei_head_scans_credit-Luke-Perry_1s.webp" alt="The head of Lomankus edgecombei. From left to right: photograph of a specimen preserved so that the head is viewed from the top; 3D model of the same specimen rotated so that the underside is visible; photograph of the head of the holotype specimen; digital 3D model of the head of the holotype specimen. Credit: Luke Parry (photograph), Yu Liu, Ruixin Ran (3D models)." class="wp-image-1950021"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The head of Lomankus edgecombei. From left to right: photograph of a specimen preserved so that the head is viewed from the top; 3D model of the same specimen rotated so that the underside is visible; photograph of the head of the holotype specimen; digital 3D model of the head of the holotype specimen. Credit: Luke Parry (photograph), Yu Liu, Ruixin Ran (3D models).</figcaption></figure>



Moreover, unlike other megacheirans, Lomankus didn't seem to have eyes, suggesting it lived in the depths and relied on its front appendages to navigate around the sediment in the dark.



"Rather than representing a 'dead end,' Lomankus shows us that megacheirans continued to diversify and evolve long after the Cambrian, with the formerly fearsome great appendage now performing a totally different function," said Professor Parry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intriguing-features-of-lomankus">Intriguing features of Lomankus</h2>



Other intriguing features of Lomankus offer further evidence of its evolutionary journey and contribution to the existing fauna.



"These beautiful new fossils show a very clear plate on the underside of the head, associated with the mouth and flanked by the great appendages," noted Professor Yu Liu from Yunnan University.



"This is a very similar arrangement to the head of&nbsp;megacheirans&nbsp;from the early Cambrian of China except for the lack of eyes, suggesting that&nbsp;Lomankus&nbsp;probably lived in a deeper and darker niche than its Cambrian relatives." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-time-capsule-in-fool-s-gold">A time capsule in fool’s gold</h2>



The fossil was discovered in a New York area famous for its "Beecher’s Trilobite Bed," a unique rock layer that is rich in trilobites.



A hostile, low oxygen environment led to the remarkable preservation of these creatures by replacing their bodies with pyrite, or the glittering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fools-gold-may-be-a-valuable-source-of-lithium/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fool’s gold</a>, resulting in stunning 3D fossils.



The pyrite-adorned treasures can be examined using a CT scan, which reveals hidden anatomical features preserved in exceptional detail.



Professor Derek Briggs, a co-author of the study from Yale University, noted that the fossils show how the rapid replacement of delicate anatomical features in pyrite (before they decay) preserves critical evidence of the evolution of life in the oceans 450 million years ago.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0960982224013678" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



Image Credit: Illustration by Xiaodong Wang



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Golden fossil: 450-million-year-old arthropod found inside a block of fool’s gold

Researchers have unveiled an exceptional golden fossil from an ancient...

The complex web of life holds countless mysteries and its origins inspire endless queries. The question of which came first - the chicken or the egg - is a classic example. 



This biological conundrum has been debated for centuries, perplexing philosophers, biologists, and curious minds alike.



But, we might finally be close an answer, thanks to an unexpected source - a single-celled species discovered just a mere four years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-chicken-or-the-egg">The chicken or the egg?</h2>



The name of this remarkable species is Chromosphaera perkinsii. In an expedition around Hawaii in 2017, scientists discovered the species in marine sediments.



Surprisingly, the first signs of its presence on Earth trace back to over a billion years ago. This is well before the emergence of the first animals, let alone <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chicken-domestication-humans-timeline-silk-road-evidence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chickens</a> or their eggs.



This long timeline of existence has allowed C. perkinsii to bear witness to some of the most monumental shifts in life as we know it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-multicellular-structures">Multicellular structures</h2>



A team of researchers at the University of Geneva (UNIGE), led by Professor Omaya Dudin, has been studying C. perkinsii. They have made a striking observation - this unicellular species forms multicellular structures that are eerily similar to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chick-emotions-shed-new-light-on-animal-welfare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal</a> embryos.



In the grand story of evolution, the transition from solitary, unicellular life forms (like yeast or bacteria) to complex, multicellular organisms (like animals) is a significant chapter.



This turns out to be a complex process, which starts with a single cell, the egg, and develops into complex beings. And believe it or not, this embryonic development process is remarkably similar across varied animal species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-roots-of-multicellularity">The roots of multicellularity</h2>



Upon observing C. perkinsii, the UNIGE team made a startling discovery. Once these cells reach their maximum size, they divide without any further growth. 



The result? Multicellular colonies. These colonies, which resemble a chicken egg structure, persist for a substantial part of their life cycle and bear a striking resemblance to the early stages of animal embryonic development.



So, does this mean that the researchers have stumbled onto the roots of multicellularity?



"Although C. perkinsii is a unicellular species, this behavior shows that multicellular coordination and differentiation processes are already present in the species, well before the first animals appeared on Earth," said Professor Dudin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threads-of-evolution">Threads of evolution</h2>



Not only are the cells' divisions and the three-dimensional structure they form similar to the early stages of animal embryonic development, but their genetic activity is in sync with it too. 



In collaboration with Dr. John Burns at the Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, the UNIGE team noticed intriguing similarities between the genetic activity within these colonies and that observed in animal embryos. 



This implies that the complex genetic programs governing multicellular development, like those seen in the chicken and egg, may have already been in place over a billion years ago. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-chicken-and-egg-mystery">The chicken and egg mystery</h2>



Marine Olivetta, the first author of the study and a laboratory technician at the Department of Biochemistry in the UNIGE Faculty of Science, emphasized the significance of C. perkinsii.



"It's fascinating, a species discovered very recently allows us to go back in time more than a billion years," said Olivetta.



The profoundly interesting take-away from the study is that either the principle of embryonic development existed before animals, or multicellular development mechanisms evolved separately in C. perkinsii. 



This discovery could shed a whole new light on a long-standing scientific debate concerning 600 million-year-old fossils that resemble embryos and could challenge certain traditional conceptions of multicellularity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chicken-egg-or-c-perkinsii">Chicken, egg, or C. perkinsii?</h2>



So, did the chicken come first, or the egg? According to the UNIGE team, it's possible that the building blocks of female reproductive cells, or eggs, appeared long before <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chickens-faces-change-color-depending-on-their-emotions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chickens</a> evolved. 



Nature, therefore, could have possessed the genetic tools to create eggs long before chickens came along. 



This unassuming, single-celled species might just have handed us a key piece of the evolutionary puzzle, improving our understanding of the origins of life.



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



Life is a complex tapestry woven with the threads of countless organisms - each contributing to the multitude of species that inhabit our planet today.



The discovery of C. perkinsii and its fascinating developmental mechanisms challenges our conventional take on evolution, pushing us to rethink and reassess.



Who knows what other secrets are hidden within the depths of our vast oceans? Only time and relentless scientific pursuit will tell. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08115-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

The chicken or the egg? We may finally know which came first

The complex web of life holds countless mysteries and its...

Brain aging has been a subject of fascination and inquiry for decades, and a 25-year research program has now unveiled critical insights into what influences cognitive performance throughout life.



The study was focused on data from the Lothian Birth Cohorts (LBC), which uniquely tracked participants' cognitive abilities from childhood into their eighth decade.



This long-term research, led by Professor Ian Deary and Dr. Simon Cox from the <a href="https://www.ed.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Edinburgh</a>, challenges conventional beliefs and provides new perspectives on brain aging.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-aging-tracing-cognitive-roots">Brain aging: Tracing cognitive roots</h2>



The researchers found that nearly half of the variations in intelligence test scores in old age can be traced back to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-games-do-not-harm-childrens-cognitive-abilities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">childhood cognitive abilities</a>, highlighting the profound and lasting impact of early cognitive development on later life. 



"What's particularly fascinating is that even after seven decades, we found correlations of about 0.7 between childhood and older-age cognitive scores. This means that just under half of the variance in intelligence in older age was already present at age 11," noted Professor Deary.



This revelation opens up questions surrounding the age-old nature versus nurture debate. It sparks renewed interest in understanding how genetics and environmental influences intertwine to shape cognitive trajectories over a lifetime.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-redefining-brain-aging">Redefining brain aging</h2>



The research presents several key insights that challenge the conventional understanding of age and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vitamin-d-in-the-brain-linked-to-better-cognitive-function/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive function</a>, revealing a nuanced picture of how our brains change over time. 



One significant finding is that brain aging varies dramatically even among individuals of the same age, indicating that biological, environmental, and lifestyle factors may play critical roles in influencing cognitive trajectories. 



Additionally, the study found that DNA methylation patterns can serve as predictive markers for mortality risk, offering a potential window into understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-transfer-longevity-gene-hoping-to-extend-human-lifespan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">longevity</a> and health outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-childhood-intelligence-and-brain-aging">Childhood intelligence and brain aging</h2>



Another key insight highlights the strong correlation between higher childhood intelligence and better survival rates in later life. 



This suggests that cognitive abilities developed early on may have a lasting impact on overall well-being and lifespan, reinforcing the importance of early education and intellectual stimulation.



Finally, the research shows that genetics exert different influences on intelligence in childhood compared to older age, implying that the factors shaping cognitive abilities shift over a lifetime.



These findings open new avenues for exploring how genetic predispositions interact with life experiences to shape the aging brain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-historic-survey">A historic survey</h2>



The vital element that set this study apart was its use of the Scottish Mental Surveys from 1932 and 1947, which included almost every child born in Scotland in 1921 and 1936. 



This thorough baseline enabled the researchers to track cognitive changes across entire lifespans and discover patterns previously unseen by science.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-structure-and-function">Brain structure and function</h2>



Another aspect of the research highlighted significant differences in brain health among people of the same age.



This leads us to ask: what factors contribute to these differences, and can they be modified by lifestyle adjustments?



The research also dispelled several misconceptions about brain aging, reshaping our understanding of how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-the-rate-of-cognitive-decline-in-alzheimers-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive decline</a> is perceived and pointing to new directions for more effective strategies and preventive measures.



“We've learned that what we often assume are 'causes' of cognitive decline in older age are sometimes actually 'outcomes' of earlier cognitive differences. This fundamentally changes how we think about brain health interventions," said Dr. Cox



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



The findings have set the stage for future exploratory questions such as the following: How does early-life cognitive ability influence lifestyle choices that affect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ultrasound-waves-can-enhance-mindfulness-and-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain health</a>? What role do environmental factors play in maintaining cognitive abilities? Can interventions in midlife help preserve cognitive function in later years?



Addressing these questions could pave the way for targeted strategies that promote lifelong cognitive health and resilience. 



Such insights may also lead to personalized approaches in brain health management, tailoring interventions to individuals based on their cognitive histories and environmental exposures.



The effects of this research will be felt for years to come, potentially transforming how society approaches cognitive health from childhood through old age and inspiring innovative practices in preventive care and mental wellness.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

What 25 years of research revealed about brain aging

Brain aging has been a subject of fascination and inquiry...

A recent study has shown how lifestyle factors influence the composition of the oral microbiome - the community of beneficial bacteria and other microbes living in the mouth. 



This research, which spans different subsistence lifestyles, from nomadic hunter-gatherers to industrialized groups, reveals how both broad lifestyle patterns and specific habits like smoking shape the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-in-your-mouth-multiply-in-a-very-unique-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oral microbiome</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diversity-of-the-oral-microbiome">Diversity of the oral microbiome</h2>



The oral microbiome plays a key role in human health, aiding in digestion, bolstering immune function, and guarding against <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-pandemic-looms-as-pathogens-move-from-wild-plants-to-crops/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pathogens</a>. However, a shift in its balance can be linked to various health issues.&nbsp;



“The oral microbiome has been understudied, and most studies of the oral microbiome have been conducted in Western populations,” said Emily Davenport, an assistant professor of biology at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a> and leader of the research team.&nbsp;



Davenport explained that the diversity and composition of the microbiome vary globally, and by examining it within different lifestyles, the team hopes to expand understanding of its impact on health across different populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mouth-microbes-and-diverse-lifestyles">Mouth microbes and diverse lifestyles</h2>



To understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-brain-literally-changes-based-on-daily-activities-and-lifestyle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifestyles</a> affect the oral microbiome, the team conducted a study on 63 individuals in Nepal, a region that offered diverse subsistence strategies within the same geographic area.&nbsp;



This approach allowed researchers to assess how lifestyle influences the microbiome without the confounding effects of geographical differences like climate, disease exposure, and access to healthcare.&nbsp;



“In this study, we comprehensively investigated the oral microbiome of individuals across a range of lifestyles from the same country, Nepal,” explained Erica Ryu, the study’s first author and a graduate student at Penn State.



The participants represented a range of subsistence strategies: hunter-gatherers who move throughout the year, subsistence farmers who recently settled and started farming, agriculturalists with a longstanding history of farming, and both Nepali and American industrialists from highly industrialized settings.&nbsp;



The researchers also collected detailed lifestyle information, including diet, educational background, medical practices, and habits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clear-impact-of-lifestyle-on-mouth-microbes-nbsp">Clear impact of lifestyle on mouth microbes&nbsp;</h2>



Using DNA sequencing on saliva samples, the team identified the specific bacteria present within each person’s oral microbiome.&nbsp;



The researchers found that bacterial species composition closely followed a gradient that matched the subsistence strategies, with distinct species more common among foragers and other species more common among industrialized individuals.&nbsp;



This suggests a clear impact of lifestyle on the microbiome, supporting the hypothesis that lifestyle influences which microbial species thrive.



Some of these lifestyle-related microbial species were linked to particular behaviors, such as smoking, diet, and specific plants in the diet, like nettle, which is commonly chewed in Nepali culture.&nbsp;



The findings underscore that lifestyle extends beyond just environmental context to include unique cultural and habitual factors that affect the microbiome.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-and-culture-shape-the-microbiome">Diet and culture shape the microbiome</h2>



The researchers found significant associations between certain microbes and dietary staples. For instance, individuals who primarily consumed barley and maize had distinct microbiome profiles compared to those who primarily consumed rice and wheat.&nbsp;



This reflects the idea that certain microbes may thrive depending on the grains in a person’s diet.&nbsp;



“It makes sense that different microbes might feed on the different grains in a person’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeding-children-healthy-diets-can-be-very-challenging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diet</a>,” said Davenport, emphasizing the connection between dietary components and microbial composition.&nbsp;



The team also noted an association with nettle, a fibrous plant often chewed in Nepal.&nbsp;



“Nettle is a fibrous plant often chewed by the foragers in this study, much like people might chew gum,” Davenport explained, adding that its presence in the diet could contribute to the unique microbiome composition observed in Nepali foragers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-smoking">The role of smoking</h2>



The study highlights <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smoking-cigarettes-accelerates-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smoking</a> as another significant factor influencing the oral microbiome.&nbsp;



Past research has shown that smoking affects the microbiome in industrialized populations, and the current study extends this finding across varied lifestyles.&nbsp;



The consistent association between smoking and microbiome composition suggests that certain lifestyle factors play a key role regardless of broader lifestyle patterns or geography.



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



The research team stresses the importance of considering lifestyle factors and cultural behaviors in future microbiome research.&nbsp;



The experts also advocate for the inclusion of diverse populations to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of the oral microbiome’s role in health.&nbsp;



“We studied populations in Nepal because it offered a unique way to explore the effects of lifestyle while controlling for a variety of other factors like geography that often obscure that effect,” Davenport said.&nbsp;



This approach reveals the impact of lifestyle on microbiome health, which is likely relevant for other populations as well.



“Whenever you make a shift - whether it’s to a different diet or different location or different culture - the microbiome can change too,” Davenport emphasized.&nbsp;



By investigating how microbiomes vary globally, scientists can better understand the processes that shape the microbiome and how these variations affect human health. This knowledge could lead to improved strategies for managing health outcomes and preventing diseases linked to microbiome imbalances.



The study marks a significant step forward in understanding how the oral microbiome adapts to diverse lifestyles, offering new insights that could inform future healthcare and conservation efforts around the world.



The findings are published in the journal Microbiome.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Mouth microbes reflect your lifestyle choices

A recent study has shown how lifestyle factors influence the...

A recent study has highlighted how plastics impact the environment, health, and human well-being in ways far more intricate and damaging than previously understood. 



The study uses the <a href="https://www.stockholmresilience.org/research/planetary-boundaries.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Planetary Boundaries framework</a> to examine the full life cycle of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-plastic-pollution-lurks-beneath-the-surface-of-rivers/">plastics</a>, showing their impacts on global environmental issues including climate change, biodiversity loss, and freshwater and land use.



“It’s necessary to consider the full life cycle of plastics, starting from the extraction of fossil fuel and the primary plastic polymer production,” explained lead author Patricia Villarrubia-Gómez, a doctoral student at the <a href="https://www.stockholmresilience.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stockholm Resilience Center</a> at Stockholm University.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-plastic-overload">Global plastic overload</h2>



Currently, over 500 million tons of plastics are produced each year, yet only 9% is recycled. Plastics are pervasive, contaminating ecosystems from Mount Everest’s peak to the Mariana Trench’s depths.&nbsp;



The research team’s review reveals how plastic pollution affects fundamental Earth systems, contributing to almost every pressing global environmental challenge.



Plastics are complex synthetic materials, often combined with thousands of chemicals. Their effects extend throughout their life cycle, from raw material extraction to production, use, and release into the environment.



“Plastics are seen as those inert products that protect our favorite products or make our lives easier, that can be ‘easily cleaned up’ once they become waste. But this is far from reality,” noted Villarrubia-Gómez.



“Plastics are made out of the combination of thousands of chemicals. Many of them, such as endocrine disruptors and chemicals, pose toxicity and harm to ecosystems and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-marine-protected-areas-boost-human-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human health</a>.” 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interconnected-impacts-of-plastics">Interconnected impacts of plastics</h2>



Until now, most research and policy efforts have focused on specific aspects of plastic pollution, often treating it primarily as a waste management problem.&nbsp;



However, the research highlights that plastics’ impacts are interconnected, destabilizing the Earth system in ways previously overlooked.



“The impacts of plastics on the Earth system are complex and interconnected,” said co-author Sarah Cornell, an expert in global sustainability at the Stockholm Resilience Center. “This work clearly demonstrates how plastics are acting to destabilize the system.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-system-impacts-of-plastic">Earth system impacts of plastic</h2>



To more effectively address these impacts, the researchers propose an impact pathway approach. This framework includes indicators at three main stages of plastics’ life cycle: extraction and production, environmental release, and systemic Earth impacts.&nbsp;



Rather than seeking a single quantitative threshold for plastic pollution within the Planetary Boundaries framework, they suggest a set of control variables that can better capture the multifaceted nature of plastics pollution.



“We emphasize the need to account for impacts at all stages along the life cycle of plastics,” Villarrubia-Gómez said. “We propose a set of control variables that together allow us to better understand and control plastics pollution.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-data-transparency-nbsp">Challenges in data transparency&nbsp;</h2>



The research team examined publicly available data on plastic production, noting significant challenges in standardizing and reporting. In 2022 alone, at least 506 million tons of plastics were produced worldwide.&nbsp;



Since the 1950s, an estimated total of 11,090 million tons have been produced. However, inconsistent data reporting, lack of methodological detail, and missing metadata complicate reliable assessments.



The team noted that this data gap limits both research and policy responses. Even with current limitations, the available evidence demonstrates how plastics contribute to environmental harm at planetary scales.&nbsp;



Plastic pollution affects ecosystems directly, through physical contamination, and indirectly, by altering Earth’s biophysical processes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solutions-to-address-planetary-health">Solutions to address planetary health</h2>



For people across the globe, the impacts of plastic pollution are becoming more severe as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-have-exceeded-six-of-nine-planetary-boundaries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary boundaries</a> are increasingly breached. 



Understanding how plastics interact within the Planetary Boundaries framework can support more sustainable strategies to address pressing environmental issues.



Study co-author Bethanie Carney Almroth, an expert in the environmental impact of plastics at the <a href="https://www.gu.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Gothenburg</a>, noted that plastics are now found in the most remote regions of the planet and in the most intimate - within human bodies.



“And we know that plastics are complex materials, released into the environment throughout the plastics life cycle, resulting in harm in many systems,” she said.&nbsp;



“The solutions we strive to develop must be considered with this complexity in mind, addressing the full spectrum of safety and sustainability to protect people and the planet.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reframing-plastic-pollution-policy">Reframing plastic pollution policy</h2>



With international Plastics Treaty negotiations approaching, the researchers urge experts and policymakers to view plastic pollution as more than a waste issue.&nbsp;



By focusing on the entire lifecycle and material flow, they hope policymakers can address the effects of plastic pollution on Earth's fundamental systems.



This shift in perspective could enable more precise tracking of plastic pollution’s impact on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-interlinked-crisis-of-plastic-pollution-and-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a>, biodiversity, and resources, allowing for timely, targeted responses.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.oneear.2024.10.017" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">One Earth</a>,



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Plastic pollution is changing the entire Earth system

A recent study has highlighted how plastics impact the environment,...

Have you ever found yourself acting differently when you know you're being watched? Well, it turns out, humans aren't the only ones who feel the pressure of an audience. Recent research has revealed that chimpanzees also feel the influence of onlookers.



The fact that chimpanzees' performance changes based on whether they're being watched or not is utterly fascinating.



“It was very surprising to find that chimpanzees are affected in their task performance by audience members, and by human audience members nonetheless!” said Christen Lin of <a href="https://www.kyoto-u.ac.jp/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kyoto University</a> in Japan.



“One might not expect a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chimpanzees-use-rapid-gestures-in-conversations-like-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chimp</a> to particularly care if another species is watching them perform a task, but the fact that they seem to be affected by human audiences even depending on the difficulty of the task suggests that this relationship is more complex than we would have initially expected.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chimpanzees-and-the-audience-effect">Chimpanzees and the audience effect</h2>



A group of researchers, including Shinya Yamamoto and Akiho Muramatsu, took the lead on this study. They were curious to find out if the "audience effect," often ascribed to how we humans manage our reputation, may also exist in non-human primates.



People are often unconsciously attentive to who's observing them, which may influence their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mother-child-play-is-a-crucial-part-of-chimpanzee-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behavior</a> and performance.



But what about chimps? It's known that chimpanzees also exist within hierarchical societies like ours, but it wasn't immediately clear if their performance might be swayed by who is watching.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chimpanzees-in-the-company-of-humans">Chimpanzees in the company of humans</h2>



"Our study site is special in that chimpanzees frequently interact with and even enjoy the company of humans here, participating almost daily in various touch screen experiments for food rewards," explained Muramatsu.



This unique interaction between chimps and humans provided the researchers with an opportunity. 



Not only were they able to investigate potential similarities in audience-related effects, but they were able to do so in a context where chimps already share unique bonds with humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-observers-affect-chimpanzees">Human observers affect chimpanzees</h2>



The experiment conducted by the researchers was meticulously designed to examine how the presence of a human audience affected the chimpanzees' performance. 



The setup involved <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-machine-learning-can-help-us-protect-chimpanzees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chimpanzees</a> engaging in tasks of varying complexity on touch screens while their interactions with human observers were carefully monitored. 



The tasks ranged from simple, requiring basic selections, to complex sequences that challenged the chimps' problem-solving abilities. 



The presence of different types of human observers - familiar or unfamiliar, and well-dressed or casually attired - added layers of complexity to the experiment. This rigorous approach ensured that the results were not merely anecdotal but grounded in robust scientific inquiry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-primate-behavior">Understanding primate behavior</h2>



The findings from this study have significant implications for our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chimpanzees-continue-learning-as-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">understanding of primate behavior</a> and cognition. If chimpanzees modify their actions based on the human gaze, they may have the ability to perceive and interpret social cues from another species.



This capability suggests a higher level of cognitive functioning and raises intriguing questions about the evolutionary bridges connecting human and non-human primates. It also prompts a reconsideration of how we view the social dynamics within captive and wild chimpanzee populations. 



By recognizing the nuanced ways in which chimpanzees interact with humans, researchers can better tailor enrichment activities and conservation strategies to support their psychological and physical well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-performing-for-an-audience">Performing for an audience</h2>



The researchers made their discovery after analyzing thousands of sessions where chimpanzees completed a touch screen task spanning six years.



In three different number-based tasks, chimpanzees performed better on the most difficult task when the number of experimenters observing them increased. 



For the simplest task, however, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chimpanzees-seek-medicinal-plants-when-theyre-sick-or-injured/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chimps</a> performed worse when being watched by more experimenters or other familiar people.



What's the reason behind these audience-related effects? It's not clear-cut, even for humans. The researchers theorize that further study in non-human apes might provide more insight into how this trait evolved and its purpose.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chimpanzees-and-human-audiences">Chimpanzees and human audiences</h2>



"Our findings suggest that how much humans care about witnesses and audience members may not be quite so specific to our species," noted Yamamoto.



"These characteristics are a core part of how our societies are largely based on reputation. If chimpanzees also pay special attention towards audience members while they perform their tasks, it stands to reason that these audience-based characteristics could have evolved before reputation-based societies emerged in our great ape lineage."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/iscience/fulltext/S2589-0042(24)02416-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iScience</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Chimpanzees feel the pressure to perform with an audience

Have you ever found yourself acting differently when you know...

Have you ever wondered what sets human culture apart? It’s a loaded question that has puzzled scientists for centuries. 



Indeed, human culture - our shared knowledge and practices passed down over generations - has an undeniable vitality that seems unparalleled in the animal kingdom.



Thomas Morgan, an evolutionary anthropologist and a scholar from <a href="https://www.asu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arizona State University</a>, is shedding new light on this enduring question. He brings exciting ideas to the table which might alter how we view ourselves and the world.



"Ten years ago it was basically accepted that it was the ability of human culture to accumulate and evolve that made us special, but new discoveries about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-share-many-of-the-same-behaviors-as-animals-that-live-nearby/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal behavior</a> are challenging these ideas and forcing us to rethink what makes our cultures, and us as a species, unique," said Morgan. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teaching-and-learning-across-species">Teaching and learning across species</h2>



What's fascinating is that the act of passing knowledge to subsequent generations isn't exclusive to humans. Animals also engage in this practice.



Take leafcutter ants, for example. When a new queen hatches, she takes a bit of her mother's fungus to start her colony. 



This practice has been ongoing for millions of years to the point that the fungus within these colonies has evolved to be genetically different from the wild fungus.



The parallels don't stop there. Much like human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/babies-begin-to-learn-language-before-they-are-even-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">languages</a> evolve over time, humpback whale songs undergo the same process. They change, spread between groups, and become more complex over time.



Chimpanzees also learn to use tools, something they've been doing for thousands - or perhaps even millions - of years.



Locusts, too, adapt to local conditions, relying on epigenetic changes to transition between various forms based on overpopulation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-open-ended-nature-of-human-culture">Open-ended nature of human culture</h2>



With the growing evidence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-started-cumulative-culture-around-600000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolving cultures</a> among animals, it leads us to question: What is special about human culture that sets us apart from other animals?



In their paper, "Human culture is uniquely open-ended, not uniquely cumulative," Morgan and Stanford University Professor Marcus Feldman provide an intriguing answer. They suggest that it's the human ability to conceive and understand endless possibilities that make us so influential.



The distinguishing feature of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-ever-3d-map-of-human-brain-created-by-harvard-and-google/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human brain</a>, according to Morgan, lies in our ability to build and remember complex sequences of instructions. This permits us to exhibit an almost limitless range of behaviors - a trait referred to as open-endedness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limited-evolution-of-animal-cultures">Limited evolution of animal cultures</h2>



“The way that animals think about what they’re doing constrains the way that their cultures can evolve. One way might be that they can’t imagine elaborate sequences very easily, or they can’t imagine subgoals," said Morgan. 



“For example, when I’m making my boys’ breakfast in the morning, it’s a nested, multistep process. First, I need to get the bowls and pots and other equipment. Then I need to put the ingredients in the pot and start cooking, all in the right amounts and order. Then I need to cook it, stirring and monitoring temperature until it reaches the right consistency, and then I need to serve it up."



“Each of these steps is a subgoal, and these subgoals have steps within them that I need to execute in the right order, so this whole thing is an elaborate procedure.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-redefining-cultural-evolution">Redefining cultural evolution</h2>



Unlike previous comparisons of human and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-not-the-only-animals-that-create-their-own-culture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal cultures</a>, Morgan and Feldman's research stands out. 



The study includes comparisons of animal examples of epigenetic inheritance and parental effects, such as the leafcutter ant (parental effect) and the locust (cumulative epigenetic inheritance).



While both epigenetic inheritance and parental effects are stable and accumulate in non-human species, they eventually stop developing, noted Morgan. “Just like animal cultures, there are constraints that these systems run-up against and that halt their evolution.” 



“I think the key question is what is special about human culture, and we tried to answer that by comparing human cultures with animal cultures, with epigenetics, and with parental effects - as many evolving systems as we can think of," said Morgan.



"And in the end we concluded that the special thing about human culture is its open-endedness. It can accumulate but then it never has to stop, it just keeps going.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-human-culture">Understanding human culture</h2>



As Morgan and Feldman’s research pushes the boundaries of how we perceive human culture, it opens the door to new questions and areas of exploration. 



What other aspects of human cognition might contribute to this unparalleled open-endedness? Could understanding this trait lead to advancements in artificial intelligence that mimic human learning processes? 



The answers to these questions could further illuminate the unique intricacies of human culture, solidifying our place as a species defined not just by cumulative knowledge but by the potential for infinite cultural innovation.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-024-02035-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Human Behaviour</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

What sets human culture apart from other animals?

Have you ever wondered what sets human culture apart? It’s...

Droughts define the American West - dry, dusty, and unforgiving. Yet, these recurring droughts are not solely due to a lack of rainfall as previously thought.



A recent study indicates a different narrative, placing the blame on rising temperatures caused by human-induced climate change.



The study asserts that increased evaporation, driven by warmer temperatures, has played a more significant role than decreased precipitation in droughts across the American West, especially since 2000.



The study was conducted by scientists at UCLA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-heat-and-drought-severity">Rising heat and drought severity</h2>



The researchers concluded that during the 2020-2022 drought, evaporation accounted for 61 percent of the drought’s severity, while reduced precipitation contributed only 39 percent.



Study lead author Rong Fu, a <a href="https://www.ucla.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCLA</a> professor of atmospheric and oceanic sciences, made an interesting clarification.



“Research has already shown that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flash-droughts-are-increasing-around-the-world-due-to-warming-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warmer temperatures</a> contribute to drought, but this is, to our knowledge, the first study that actually shows that moisture loss due to demand is greater than the moisture loss due to lack of rainfall," noted Professor Fu.



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



Historically, drought in the West has been associated with reduced rainfall. However, warming temperatures caused by the burning of fossil fuels have intensified evaporative demand.



This clearly broadens our perspective on the causes of drought, highlighting the need to account for human activities and their impacts on the environment.



Veva Deheza, executive director of NOAA’s National Integrated Drought Information System and co-author of the study, elaborated on this shift in understanding.



"For generations, drought has been associated with drier-than-normal weather. This study further confirms we’ve entered a new paradigm where rising temperatures are leading to intense droughts, with precipitation as a secondary factor," said Deheza.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-rain-that-never-falls">The rain that never falls</h2>



Our climate is a complex system. As the planet warms, evaporation rates increase. Even though a warmer atmosphere can hold more water vapor, it will not necessarily result in precipitation.



Heat keeps water molecules in constant motion, making condensation - and thus <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenhouse-gas-emissions-cause-a-major-delay-in-rainfall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainfall</a> - difficult. This cyclic process suggests that droughts will last longer, cover wider areas, and be even drier with every bit that the planet warms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heat-evaporation-and-droughts">Heat, evaporation, and droughts</h2>



What happens when we analyze observational data over a 70-year period about "natural" droughts and those resulting from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indisputable-evidence-of-human-caused-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human-induced climate change</a>? 



Surprisingly, researchers found that climate change has accounted for 80 percent of the increase in evaporative demand since 2000. During the drought periods, that figure increased to more than 90 percent.



These figures reveal that climate change is the main driver increasing drought severity and expansion since 2000.



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



The researchers made a dramatic comparison of drought patterns. Before 2000, only 26 percent of droughts were caused by high evaporative demand. Since 2000, this figure jumped to 66 percent.



Professor Fu highlighted the impact of climate change on the drought severity. 



"Though the drought began through a natural reduction in precipitation, I would say its severity was increased from the equivalent of ‘moderate’ to ‘exceptional' on the drought severity scale due to climate change.”



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



The study concludes with a warning. If the emission of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/state-of-the-climate-greenhouse-gases-hit-a-record-high-in-2022/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gases</a> continues unabated, what we once considered severe droughts will become more frequent events in the not-so-distant future.



“Even if precipitation looks normal, we can still have drought because moisture demand has increased so much and there simply isn’t enough water to keep up with that increased demand," said Professor Fu.



"This is not something you could build bigger reservoirs or something to prevent because when the atmosphere warms, it will just suck up more moisture everywhere. The only way to prevent this is to stop temperatures from increasing, which means we have to stop emitting greenhouse gases.”



The research was supported by NOAA’s National Integrated Drought Information System and Climate Program Office, and the National Science Foundation.



The findings highlight the urgent need to address climate change. The future of the American West depends on us - on our actions and our commitment to preserving the environment.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adn9389" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Climate change is now the driving force behind droughts

Droughts define the American West - dry, dusty, and unforgiving....

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="iuA5mpp3jv-1641775-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Kainji Lake, a reservoir on the Niger River.



In 1968, Kainji Lake was created by the construction of the Kainji Dam. The Niger River, the third longest in Africa, enters the lake in the north.&nbsp;



According to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-in-the-american-west-are-a-lifesaving-resource-for-birds/">ESA</a>, the creation of the lake submerged Foge Island and the town of Bussa and permanently flooded other riverine settlements, leaving around 50,000 people displaced.&nbsp;



Large parts of Foge Island are temporarily exposed during low water tides, and the land is often used by migrating fishermen. Kainji Dam is a dam across the Niger River in Niger State of Central Nigeria. 



Wild mammals occur at relatively low densities due to illegal hunting. Lake Kainji has suffered a dramatic decline as a fishery due to the high numbers of artisanal and subsistence fisherfolk using the lake. It has been suggested that a period of closure, together with controlled fishing rights may help improve fish stocks.



Kainji Lake National Park is the oldest of its kind in Nigeria. The park contains three distinct areas: a part of the Kainji Lake, the Borgu Game Reserve to the west of the lake, and the Zugurma Game Reserve to the southeast. The park is home to around 65 mammal species, 350 bird species, and 30 species of reptiles and amphibians. 



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



---



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.

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

[sendtonews key="iuA5mpp3jv-1641775-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.igb.illinois.edu/">Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology</a> reveals how scientists can modify common crops like soybean, rice, and wheat to protect them from heat stress.



“We need to double crop production by 2050 to feed a growing global population, and not only are we not on track to do that, but climate change is further complicating things,” said Amanda Cavanagh, a lecturer at the University of Essex. 



The study is part of Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE), an international research project that aims to develop food crops that turn the sun’s energy into food more efficiently.



“Using an engineering approach we designed multiple alternative metabolic pathways to photorespiration. Testing them in the field showed increases in productivity which led Amanda to significantly move the project forward by showing our engineered plants can withstand pretty extreme temperature stress,” said study co-author and RIPE researcher Paul South.&nbsp;



“As the climate changes and temperature stresses increase the pressure on our global food supply, farmers will need every tool available including engineering approaches like the synthetic biology used here to maintain safe and productive harvests.”



The experts tested plants modified to have more efficient photorespiration to see if they were better adapted to warmer temperatures.&nbsp;



The team found that the engineered plants produced 26 percent more biomass than the wild-type plants exposed to the same temperatures, and had 15 percent less yield loss under the higher temperatures.



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



---



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.

Designing crops that can beat the heat

[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Carl...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes the first comprehensive estimate of carbon density in the Saharan, Sahel, and Sudanian zones of Africa. In an effort to measure the amount of carbon stored across these drylands, a team of scientists used high-resolution satellite images and artificial intelligence to map nearly 10 billion individual trees. 



"The high spatial resolution (50 cm) combined with AI and field measurements used in this study is key to improving tree inventories in drylands," said Pierre Hiernaux, a French researcher working for NASA. "The ever-increasing availability of very high-resolution satellite imagery will make it possible to assess carbon pools and their dynamics at the individual tree level on a global scale."



"This study is exceptional because it is pioneering a type of approach that will revolutionize the monitoring of trees and forests on a global scale: in the short term, it will be possible to map the world's trees from the centre of the Amazon to our schoolyards," said <a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en">INRAE</a> researcher Jean-Pierre Wigneron.



"Many fields of application will become much more efficient and accurate, such as tracking carbon stocks, biodiversity, monitoring logging and protection against illegal forest degradation, in near real time.”



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



---



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.

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="f8fukm28Vz-2491833-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> features a visual dataset of.methane emissions from wetlands across the globe. Atmospheric methane levels have reached record highs in recent years, and wetlands are a major source of these emissions.&nbsp;



"Methane is an important greenhouse gas that contributes substantially to global warming. On a molecule by molecule basis, methane is much more efficient at trapping heat than carbon dioxide, the main driver of warming," says NASA.



"Though human activities, including agriculture, oil and natural gas production and use, and waste disposal, collectively contribute the majority of methane to the atmosphere, about a third of total methane emissions comes from wetlands."&nbsp;



According to NASA, understanding methane emissions from wetlands and other natural sources is critically important for scientists and policymakers who are working to combat climate change by reducing emissions from human activities.



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



---



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.

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

[sendtonews key="f8fukm28Vz-2491833-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0dEcERCq61-2283382-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes why experts are studying zebrafish to gain a better understanding of how the immune system responds to injury. Zebrafish have the ability to repair and regenerate organs.



“Organ regeneration offers an exciting opportunity for studying the immune system and to inquire why some species can regenerate organs like the heart or missing limbs while others like humans cannot,” explained Dr. Tatjana Piotrowski.



Zebrafish sensory organ hair cells are an ideal system to investigate the pathways and cell types involved in regeneration since they are easily destroyed with antibiotics and begin regenerating within five hours. This enabled the researchers to identify the exact timing and genetic programs for each anti-inflammatory macrophage activation state.&nbsp;



“Our hypothesis is that human macrophages do not receive the proper chemical activation 'cocktail' to instruct pro-regenerative processes,” said Dr. Nicolas Denans. “Identifying the molecular recipe of macrophage activation in zebrafish may one day enable us to design regenerative immunotherapies in humans.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



“The new evidence is a valuable resource for comparative studies on the genetic programs involved in macrophage-mediated repair and regeneration. In other words, different types of injuries may induce different kinds of inflammatory responses. We want to decipher whether this 'language' is universal or if there are a variety of dialects."



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&nbsp;



---



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 the immune system responds to injury

[sendtonews key="0dEcERCq61-2283382-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Stowers...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3UUsNkFOuS-2487333-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes how record-breaking heat expressed itself around the world in 2022.



Scientists have determined that 2022 was the 5th warmest year since 1880. Furthermore, the last nine consecutive years have been the warmest on record.



From devastating floods and wildfires to natural disasters like Hurricane Ian, 2022 showed us yet again how a warming climate affects people across the globe.&nbsp;



"As we look back at 20:22 and years past, we see that each year we better understand the challenges we face and how important it is to meet them," says NASA.



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



---



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.

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

[sendtonews key="3UUsNkFOuS-2487333-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"]</div>



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)



---



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



---



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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