Superbugs, or antibiotic-resistant bacteria, are among the most urgent public health dangers of our time. These bacteria mutate to resist even the most powerful antibiotics.



Recently at a hospital in Nevada, a female patient who was admitted with pneumonia died from sepsis and multiple organ failure. The culprit was a bacteria that had adapted to resist as many as 26 different antibiotics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-possible-solution">A possible solution </h2>



Taking steps in the fight against these deadly pathogens, researchers at <a href="https://www.tamu.edu/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Texas A&amp;M</a> have discovered something intriguing. 



The experts found that curcumin, the compound that gives <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turmeric-supplements-provide-yet-another-health-benefit-according-to-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">turmeric</a> its bright yellow color, may be able to reverse antibiotic resistance.



The study revealed that curcumin, when presented to bacteria as a source of food and then triggered by light, causes destructive reactions within these microbes. These reactions eventually kill the bacteria.



The process effectively reduces the number of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-create-viruses-to-combat-antibiotic-resistant-bacteria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotic-resistant</a> strains, consequently making conventional antibiotics useful again.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-curcumin-the-basics">Understanding curcumin - the basics</h2>



As mentioned, curcumin is the powerful compound that gives turmeric its color and impressive health benefits. 



It’s packed with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular natural remedy for everything from joint pain to brain health. 



People have used turmeric in traditional medicine for centuries, but scientists have confirmed that curcumin is the real star. 



It helps fight inflammation, which is linked to chronic diseases like arthritis, heart disease, and even Alzheimer’s.



Beyond reducing inflammation, curcumin may support gut health, improve mood, and even have anti-cancer properties. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-superbug-era">The superbug era</h2>



Prior to the discovery of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antibiotics-for-childhood-infections-are-becoming-ineffective/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotics</a>, infectious diseases were the top cause of death and disability globally. The introduction of these wonder drugs added 23 years to the average human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breathing-less-oxygen-could-extend-your-lifespan-by-50-or-more/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifespan</a>.



While the development of new antibiotics has reached a plateau, resistant bacteria have surged - ushering in the superbug era.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antibiotic-resistant-superbugs-are-being-passed-from-pets-to-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Superbugs</a> include methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE), and certain drug-resistant strains of pneumonia-causing bacteria - all of which are notoriously difficult to treat.



Dr. Vanderlei Bagnato, a professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and the senior author of the study, shared his insights.



“When bacteria start becoming resistant to conventional antibiotics, we have what we call an antibiotic catastrophe," said Dr. Bagnato.



"To overcome this challenge, we need alternative ways to either kill the superbugs or find a novel way to modify natural processes within the bacteria so that antibiotics start to act again." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-battling-superbugs-with-curcumin">Battling superbugs with curcumin</h2>



Natural diversity within a bacterial population results in varied behaviors, including differences in antibiotic resistance. 



If certain strains can withstand antimicrobial drugs and continue to multiply, this diversity can contribute to increased resistance to treatment.



The primary goal of the Texas A&amp;M study was to control this bacterial diversity to manage resistance.



The research team applied a method known as photodynamic inactivation, which uses light and light-sensitive molecules known as photosensitizers to generate reactive oxygen species. 



These species can annihilate microorganisms by disrupting their metabolic processes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-curcumin-and-antibiotics">Curcumin and antibiotics</h2>



In their experiments, curcumin was used as the photosensitizer. The beauty of this approach is that curcumin also doubles as natural food for bacteria.



The team tested this method on strains of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-microbe-found-to-be-the-culprit-behind-itch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Staphylococcus aureus</a> that are resistant to antibiotics such as amoxicillin, erythromycin, and gentamicin.



The bacteria were subjected to multiple light exposure cycles. The team then compared the minimum antibiotic concentration needed to kill the bacteria following light exposure with those not exposed to light. 



“When we have a mixed population of bacteria where some are resistant, we can use photodynamic inactivation to narrow the bacterial distribution, leaving behind strains that are more or less similar in their response to antibiotics. It’s much easier now to predict the precise antibiotic dose needed to remove the infection,” explained Dr. Bagnato.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fighting-against-resistance">Fighting against resistance</h2>



The researchers are confident that photodynamic inactivation by curcumin would function well as a complement to antibiotics as a treatment for infections that are caused by drug-resistant bacteria.



“Photodynamic inactivation offers a cost-effective treatment option, which is crucial for reducing medical expenses not only in developing countries but also in the United States," said study co-author Dr. Vladislav Yakovlev. 



"It also has potential applications in military medicine, where this technology could be used to treat battlefield wounds and prevent the development and spread of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antimicrobial-resistance-projected-to-kill-10-million-people-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antimicrobial resistance</a>, a significant concern in combat situations."



The results of the study provide renewed hope in the fight against superbugs. By leveraging the potential of a common spice like turmeric, we may gain an advantage in this ongoing battle.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-79743-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Just a pinch of this common spice kills superbugs in lab testing

Superbugs, or antibiotic-resistant bacteria, are among the most urgent public...

Microscopic,View.,Brightly,Colored,,These,Microscopic,Algae,Can,Survive,In

For thousands of years, algae have lived on the surface of the ice, blooming as the snow recedes. These tiny organisms seem harmless, almost invisible, yet their presence plays a surprising role in shaping the fate of the Greenland Ice Sheet. 



As the world warms, these algae may colonize larger areas, speeding up ice loss and altering the delicate balance of the Arctic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-algae-in-ice-melt">Role of algae in ice melt</h2>



Algae on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-ice-sheet-jakobshavn-glacier-seen-melting-in-real-time-from-earth-orbit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland Ice Sheet</a> contain brown pigments. When sunlight strikes the surface, bright ice reflects much of it back into space, keeping the ice cold. 



But when the ice is dark due to algal growth, it absorbs more heat and melts at a faster rate.



This process has been recognized for some time, but researchers believed that the algae’s spread was limited by the lack of nutrients in the harsh, frozen environment. 



The ice desert was thought to be too barren to sustain widespread growth. That assumption has now been turned on its head.



New findings, published in Nature Communications, suggest that these algae require very few nutrients to survive. 



More significantly, they can store and conserve energy, which allows them to spread more extensively than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-ice-sheet-discovery-transforms-sea-level-predictions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">previous expectations</a>.



If this proves correct, ice darkening could happen on a much larger scale in future, thus accelerating the melting of Greenland’s ice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-ice-algae">Understanding ice algae</h2>



Laura Halbach, who recently earned her Ph.D. at <a href="https://international.au.dk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aarhus University</a>, has played a crucial role in uncovering this surprising phenomenon. 



Now a postdoctoral researcher at the <a href="https://www.mpg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute</a> in Bremen, she continues her work studying Arctic ecosystems and their hidden complexities.



"My main goal with the trip to Greenland was to understand the mechanisms of the algae bloom formations," Halbach explained. 



"With new methods, I was able, as the first researcher ever, to measure the activity of single algae cells from the Greenland Ice Sheet. This led to the discovery of their ability to live off very few nutrients and to store up energy."



These findings reshape what scientists thought they knew about microbial life on ice. What was once considered a largely lifeless landscape now appears to host a thriving and resilient ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-world-of-ice-algae">Powerful world of ice algae</h2>



Ice algae are single-celled organisms with an elongated, oval shape. 



They appear brownish due to their pigments and can be found not just in Greenland but also in high-altitude and high-latitude ice regions worldwide. 



The Alps, the Himalayas, and Alaskan glaciers all host similar algal species.



Like plants, these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-microalgae-show-photosynthesis-is-possible-in-near-darkness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">algae perform photosynthesis</a>, producing oxygen and organic molecules. They rely on sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide, along with small amounts of essential nutrients like phosphorus, nitrogen, and carbon.



During spring and summer, they bloom, forming dark patches across the ice. The larger the bloom, the more heat the ice absorbs, creating a cycle where melting fuels even more algal growth. 



Understanding how they function is key to predicting their long-term impact on the Arctic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-frozen-desert-full-of-life">A frozen desert full of life</h2>



That perception that ice sheets are devoid of life started to change in 2020 when researchers from Aarhus University and GFZ Helmholtz Center for Geosciences in Germany began their expeditions into the Arctic.



They found that the expanses of frozen water teemed with microscopic life, including algae, bacteria, fungi, and even viruses, all coexisting and forming a complex and active ecosystem.



But this discovery came with challenges. When scientists collected ice samples, they found not just algae but entire microbial communities. 



Studying algae in isolation became nearly impossible. To understand their particular role in the ecosystem, researchers needed a new approach.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-way-to-study-algae">A new way to study algae</h2>



Laura Halbach wanted to pinpoint exactly how ice algae functioned in their environment. But isolating them from their microbial neighbors was difficult. 



Traditional methods involved scraping darkened ice and placing samples into petri dishes, where entire ecosystems would be present.



"If you melt a piece of the surface ice, you see these dark-pigmented algae. But there are many organisms in the sample, including snow-algae, other eukaryotic algae, bacteria, and fungi," she explained.



To solve this, Halbach and her team introduced marked nutrients into the ecosystem. These nutrients contained isotopic traces detectable with a powerful machine called a mass spectrometer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutrient-flow-in-ice-algae">Nutrient Flow in ice algae</h2>



"You could say that we kind of labeled the food we gave them. This enabled us to see who ate what. Combined with a machine called SIMS, which is extremely precise, we were able to measure the nutrient uptake of single cells," says Halbach.



The results were striking. The algae efficiently absorbed the small amounts of nutrients available, proving far more resourceful than scientists had expected. 



"They are very efficient in taking up the limited nutrients on the ice. Furthermore, we discovered that they have the capability of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-nutrient-loss-due-to-heavy-rainfall-threatens-agriculture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">storing phosphorus</a>, which is crucial for their metabolism."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-does-phosphorus-come-from">Where does phosphorus come from?</h2>



Phosphorus is rare on the ice sheet, which raises questions about where the algae acquire it.



Some researchers suggest that it originates from local rock formations that are rich in phosphorus-bearing minerals. 



As erosion grinds these rocks into dust, the wind scatters the nutrients across the ice, making them available to the algae.



Because the algae can store phosphorus, they are not entirely dependent on immediate nutrient availability. This could allow them to spread into new areas as more ice becomes exposed each year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-ice-algae-colonization">Expanding ice algae colonization</h2>



With climate change causing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenlands-melting-icebergs-may-not-be-threat-to-ocean-currents-amoc/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland Ice Sheet</a> to melt earlier each year, more ice is being exposed to the Sun. 



Areas that once remained buried under thick layers of snow are now vulnerable to colonization by algae.



"New ice is being exposed on Greenland every year because the snow melts earlier and earlier. There used to be a thick snow cover all year round, but now large new areas of ice are being exposed to the Sun," Halbach noted.



"This opens up these areas for the algae to colonize, and as they can live on very limited amounts of nutrients, it might happen sooner than later."



This shift could significantly alter how scientists predict ice loss in the Arctic. If algae spread to newly exposed ice, they will darken even more of the surface, accelerating the melting process beyond previous estimates.



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



Laura Halbach’s research offers crucial insights into the role of algae in ice loss. Currently, most climate models do not account for microbial life in their calculations. 



This gap means that predictions about Greenland’s ice loss - and its effects on global sea levels - may be underestimating the true impact.



If algae colonization continues to expand, its contribution to ice melt will need to be factored into climate projections. 



The work of Halbach and her team could help refine these models, leading to more accurate forecasts for the Arctic’s future.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-56664-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Algae that thrives on ice plays an unexpected role in glacier melting

For thousands of years, algae have lived on the surface...

Crown shyness is an intriguing occurrence where the tops of certain trees form graceful gaps instead of merging into a continuous canopy. This sight has fascinated forest visitors for decades, leaving many amazed at the patterns that appear carefully carved in the foliage overhead.



While it's often assumed that a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/resilient-trees-can-help-safeguard-cities-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest</a> canopy is densely packed with leaves, the channel-like gaps between branches challenge this notion and raise intriguing questions.



In a recent study, Dr. Emily Osterloff from the Natural History Museum in London has shared new insights into why some crowns seem reluctant to meet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-tree-canopy-puzzle">The tree canopy puzzle</h2>



Experts began documenting this striking leaf separation in the 1920s, noting it in some eucalypts, black mangroves, and Japanese larches, though not all forests display such airy spacing. 



They wondered whether these tall giants were simply responding to environmental factors or whether something deeper was at play.



Researchers proposed that wind might have a role by making branches collide, trimming sensitive shoots and maintaining small corridors overhead. Over time, even gentle rubbing can shape how upper limbs expand, effectively sculpting unique outlines around the tree’s perimeter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-light-sensing-and-canopy-growth">Light sensing and canopy growth</h2>



In addition to physical contact, scientists suspect that trees sense nearby foliage by detecting certain wavelengths of light. 



They rely on <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3268501/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phytochrome</a>, a light-sensitive protein that shifts its activity under red and far-red spectra, allowing each canopy to gauge the presence of neighbors.



Under these cues, some trees may slow outward expansion to avoid deep shade or excessive bumping. By regulating branch development, they possibly cut down on energy losses caused by repeated collisions or overshadowing from taller growth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-jigsaw-of-twigs-and-branches">A jigsaw of twigs and branches</h2>



In Costa Rica, observers described branches behaving “like loosely fitting pieces of a jigsaw puzzle,” explained Dr. Francis E. Putz from The University of Florida and colleagues in 1984.



Broken twigs often clustered at places where swaying boughs touched, suggesting an ongoing pattern of tip damage.



Some of those areas lacked vigorous new growth, hinting that contact points become natural pruning zones. Gradually, each crown forms neat boundaries along its edges, letting slivers of sky peek through.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-tree-canopy-gaps-help">How tree canopy gaps help </h2>



A few theories propose that these gaps reduce the spread of certain pests, since leaf-chewing insects may struggle to jump across open channels. Lowering direct contact between foliage might also curb disease transmission, giving each tree extra defense in a crowded <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/complex-canopies-help-forests-recover-from-disturbances/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environment</a>.



Some investigators suggest that the openings allow more sunlight to filter down the trunk, providing undergrowth a better shot at photosynthesis. 



This extra light can support a wider range of plants, insects, and other creatures, potentially strengthening the overall health of the forest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shaping-a-tree-canopy">Shaping a tree canopy </h2>



Research in a Japanese mixed forest found that broad-leaved canopies often left wider channels than conifers. This could stem from differences in crown shape, wood flexibility, or simply how each species copes with frequent breezes overhead.



Slender trunks are known to sway more, increasing contact with neighboring boughs and thus boosting tip breakage. With each passing season, repeated impacts shape a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drones-reveal-hidden-biodiversity-in-rainforest-canopies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">canopy</a> that appears to politely step back from the stand next door.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lingering-mysteries-and-fresh-frontiers">Lingering mysteries and fresh frontiers</h2>



A study using three-dimensional scanning confirmed that spindly forms are more likely to display these distinct boundary gaps. 



Such findings highlight the interaction between mechanical forces, photoreceptors, and the tree’s genetic makeup.



One cloud forest <a href="https://www.jstor.org/stable/2388326">study</a> found that wind-exposed areas did not always produce more open gaps, challenging the assumption that rough weather is the main driver. 



In contrast, certain experts propose that hormones or chemical cues nudge branches apart even in calmer settings.



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



Observations from multiple continents indicate that crown shyness arises under a variety of conditions. Some stands exhibit subtle gaps, while others create a well-defined patchwork pattern across the canopy.



Future research might focus on how younger saplings begin to express this phenomenon, or if it becomes more pronounced as trees age. Questions also linger about whether partial crowding yields the same structural adjustments when compared to dense stands.



Although the exact reasons behind crown shyness remain open to interpretation, the patterns they form captivate onlookers and spark wonder about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-cities-lack-sufficient-canopy-cover-despite-visible-trees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature’s complexity</a>. 



Insights so far suggest a delicate dance of light, wind, and growth strategies that keeps certain branches close but never fully touching. Researchers continue searching for the missing puzzle piece that completes this botanical mystery.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8557382/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annals of Botany</a>.



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Why some trees never touch each other in the canopy

Crown shyness is an intriguing occurrence where the tops of...

The amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere has been increasing rapidly, leading to severe climate consequences. 



However, researchers at <a href="https://www.wur.nl/en.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wageningen University</a> have identified an unexpected benefit of rising CO2 levels: tropical trees have become more efficient at photosynthesis over the past century.



"Tropical forests substantially influence the terrestrial carbon sink. Their contributions to the forest carbon sink may increase due to the stimulation of photosynthesis by rising atmospheric CO2; however, the magnitude of this effect is poorly quantified for tropical canopy trees," noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tree-photosynthesis-and-rising-co2">Tree photosynthesis and rising CO2</h2>



The study revealed that the increase in CO2 concentrations has enabled <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-trees-with-thick-leaves-may-thrive-in-higher-co2-conditions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tropical trees</a> to enhance their carbon-absorbing capabilities.



The results are based on a new method which allowed the researchers to examine the influence of CO2 on trees over the last 100 years. Using wood samples, the team investigated how tree photosynthesis has responded to rising levels of carbon.



The experts collected wood samples from red cedar trees in Australia, Thailand, and Bangladesh. Using a hollow drill, they extracted thin cylindrical pieces of wood that reveal the tree's growth rings.



"From such a sample, you can not only tell how much the tree has grown, but it also acts as a kind of time capsule, showing how the tree functioned in a particular year," explained study lead author Sophie Zwartsenberg. 



"That information is encoded in the chemical composition of the wood, which we analyzed in detail."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sugar-production-in-trees">Sugar production in trees</h2>



Sugars are essential for trees, playing a crucial role in their growth and survival. Without sugars, a tree cannot sustain itself. From the analysis of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-rings-reveal-the-carbon-storage-capacity-of-a-forest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree rings</a>, scientists can determine how well trees have produced sugars through photosynthesis over the last century.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/revealing-the-secrets-of-photosynthesis-through-pep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Photosynthesis</a> is affected by the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere. Low levels cause the enzyme that traps CO2 to make more errors. Rather than bind with CO2, it can bind with oxygen (O₂), resulting in wasted energy. This process is called photorespiration.



"You can compare it to a bag of marbles," said Zwartsenberg. "If there are many CO2 balls mixed in with the oxygen, the enzyme is more likely to pick CO2. But if it fails and grabs oxygen instead, the tree wastes energy without producing any sugar. This process is called photorespiration and is different from photosynthesis."



Since higher CO2 levels reduce the occurrence of photorespiration, trees can use more energy for growth and maintenance. This is not only beneficial for trees but also for humans, as increased photosynthesis means that trees absorb more CO2 from the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increase-in-photosynthetic-efficiency">Increase in photosynthetic efficiency</h2>



To analyze these changes, the scientists used a chemical method developed at a Swedish university. This technique examines sugar molecules, which form differently depending on whether they result from photosynthesis (CO2 capture) or photorespiration (O2 capture).



The analysis is conducted with a specialized device that uses magnetic fields to examine tiny wood samples. "It's like a giant MRI machine," noted Zwartsenberg.



By measuring sugar molecules in tree rings, the researchers found a consistent increase in photosynthetic efficiency over the past century. Interestingly, smaller trees showed greater improvements in efficiency compared to larger ones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extra-co2-in-trees">Extra CO2 in trees</h2>



"This is the first time we have been able to demonstrate the effect of extra CO2 in mature trees that have grown under natural conditions," said study co-author Professor Pieter Zuidema.



"Positive CO2 effects on photosynthesis have long been known from greenhouse studies on small plants. The fact that the balance between photosynthesis and photorespiration has shifted toward photosynthesis means that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-forests-have-strategies-to-survive-in-nutrient-poor-soils/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tropical forests</a> have been producing more sugars for a century."



"The question remains, however, where the trees have invested those extra sugars. Other research suggests that, in most cases, they do not form wider tree rings. This would be a next step."



Though the research points to a possible advantage of increasing CO2 levels, the overall risks of climate change remain. The most important action to mitigate these risks is reducing greenhouse gas emissions, primarily by transitioning away from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/nph.20358" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a>.



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Rising CO2 levels have made tropical trees more efficient

The amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere has...

The Amazon rainforest, known as "the lungs of the Earth," faces continuous threats from deforestation. 



The Amazon's unique biodiversity, extensive carbon storage capabilities, and significant role in regulating the Earth's climate highlight the urgent need to fully understand the consequences of deforestation.



Scientists, activists, and global citizens have been increasingly concerned about changes in rainfall patterns. However, emerging research challenges previously held assumptions about rainfall <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-rainforest-is-approaching-widespread-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dynamics</a> in this vital ecosystem.



The concept of a "tipping point" - a threshold beyond which the Amazon could irreversibly degrade into savannah - has dominated environmental discussions. 



But now, recent studies have begun to question the accuracy of this alarming scenario, bringing new insights into the resilience of the region's rainfall patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-the-amazon-rainforest-stable">Is the Amazon rainforest stable?</h2>



Scientists from the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology (<a href="https://mpimet.mpg.de/en/homepage" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MPI-M</a>) have made a significant breakthrough, revealing that the Amazon may sustain its rainfall even in extreme cases of deforestation. 



Published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters, the findings challenge earlier scientific consensus about the region’s vulnerability to rainfall disruption.



Previously, researchers emphasized the critical role of vegetation in maintaining Amazonian <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nearly-40-of-climate-critical-amazon-rainforest-is-unprotected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainfall</a> through evapotranspiration - the process where plants transfer moisture from soil to the atmosphere.



This cycle, scientists warned, would weaken dramatically if widespread deforestation occurred, significantly reducing rainfall and destabilizing the region.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oversimplified-climate-models">Oversimplified climate models</h2>



These earlier predictions, however, depended heavily on models that oversimplified or overlooked key atmospheric processes. 



Most relied on global climate models that inadequately represented convection, the atmospheric mechanism crucial for rainfall. Alternatively, regional models were unable to account for how large-scale atmospheric circulation might adapt to deforestation.



Such limitations cast doubt on earlier predictions, necessitating a more sophisticated approach to better understand the complex <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-extremes-will-boost-methane-emissions-in-the-amazon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dynamics</a> involved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-modeling-approach">A new modeling approach</h2>



Experts at MPI-M, including Arim Yoon and Cathy Hohenegger, adopted an advanced approach using the global storm-resolving ICON model.



This model directly resolves atmospheric convection with extraordinary precision. They conducted their simulation globally over three years, operating at an exceptionally detailed resolution of five kilometers, a significant methodological advancement over previous research.



The findings revealed that rainfall in the Amazon isn't predominantly determined by evapotranspiration, as previously believed. Instead, large-scale atmospheric circulation substantially compensates for any loss of moisture due to deforestation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-winds-maintain-moisture-levels">Ocean winds maintain moisture levels</h2>



"The wind at about three kilometers altitude carries enough moisture from the ocean into the region to make up for the decline in evapotranspiration," said Yoon.



The calculations demonstrated little to no change in annual rainfall, even under conditions of complete deforestation, contrasting sharply with earlier findings.



This unexpected resilience suggests that earlier assessments of deforestation impacts may have overstated the Amazon’s vulnerability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signs-of-a-more-stable-amazon">Signs of a more stable Amazon </h2>



"Precipitation over land seems more tightly coupled to the large-scale circulation than to evapotranspiration in our global storm-resolving simulation if compared to state-of-the-art climate models currently used in the IPCC assessment reports," noted Hohenegger.



"This fact is exciting as it asks for the revisitation of some of the things we thought we knew about precipitation over land and its sensitivity."



This research shifts scientific understanding towards a more nuanced view of rainfall dynamics in the Amazon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rainfall-patterns-and-seasonal-variability">Rainfall patterns and seasonal variability</h2>



Despite the optimistic findings regarding total annual precipitation, significant changes remain in rainfall distribution throughout the year.



"Just using one indicator to assess the future of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-rainforest-and-the-looming-threat-of-drought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon rainforest</a> isn't enough. The details of the rainfall patterns can make a big difference," said Yoon.



Seasonal variability could profoundly impact the ecosystem, agriculture, and communities dependent on predictable rainfall patterns.



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



The MPI-M scientists aim to further refine their analysis by examining whether extreme rainfall events or prolonged droughts might increase in frequency or intensity under conditions of deforestation. 



Understanding these patterns will provide critical insights into the real-world impacts of deforestation on Amazonian ecosystems and human livelihoods.



Although total rainfall might remain stable in the Amazon, deforestation inevitably disrupts ecological balance and climate stability. 



Changes in rainfall distribution, coupled with habitat loss and climate shifts, remain a threat to biodiversity, ecosystem health, and human communities relying on the Amazon.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2024GL110503" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>.&nbsp;



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Amazon rainforest may be much more stable than we thought

The Amazon rainforest, known as "the lungs of the Earth,"...

The natural environment is repeatedly reinventing itself with dynamic processes which have a tendency to continue on for millions of years. Extinction events are among the strongest forces which not only kill specific life forms but also offer the basis for fresh avenues of evolution. 



A recent study evokes a fascinating image of the process, revealing how the death of the largest dinosaurs indirectly created the fruit-rich habitats which were so important to our primate ancestors.



The research was led by Christopher Doughty, an ecoinformatics professor at <a href="https://nau.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northern Arizona University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-prehistoric-legacy">A prehistoric legacy</h2>



Sauropods, the long-necked, plant-munching dinosaurs of the ancient world, had a massive influence on the world around them. These hulking dinosaurs knocked over trees on a routine basis and munched through tons of plant matter. 



When Sauropods went extinct some 66 million years ago, their loss profoundly changed ecosystems. Forests rebounded and closed up, which decreased the amount of sunlight on the ground and paved the way for an impressive evolutionary shift.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sauropods-and-ecological-change">Sauropods and ecological change</h2>



The extinction of Sauropods enabled trees to evolve without interruptions. The forests became denser, and tree competition for light intensified. 



Trees developed larger fruits and seeds to dominate others, and these provided their offspring with an advantage over others by supplying them with additional energy and greater survival chances in shaded conditions.



"At first glance, the darker forest understory caused by dinosaur extinctions may seem unimportant, but it could have directly led to the evolution of our fruit-eating primate ancestors," said Professor Doughty.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dinosaur-fruit-connection">The dinosaur-fruit connection</h2>



Before the dinosaurs went extinct, fruits were scarce, and seeds were small. But with the ecological niche left open by the sauropods, plants evolved immediately. 



Stronger seedlings, with larger seeds, were able to compete for limited sunlight. In addition, fleshy fruits evolved as an incredibly efficient way of enticing animals to scatter seeds and reproduce.



Even though this evolution scenario was previously theorized, no fossil records existed to conform the hypothesis.



To investigate, Professor Doughty and his team developed a cutting-edge model of seed and fruit size evolution after the dinosaurs became extinct. The model precisely replicated fossil records for the last 65 million years and decisively substantiated the hypothesis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reversal-of-dinosaur-driven-fruit-trends">Reversal of dinosaur-driven fruit trends</h2>



Interestingly, the model also forecasted a future reversal of seed evolutionary patterns. 



Seeds began to shrink about 35 million years ago. This coincided with the appearance of new large mammals that were successful in duplicating, though on a smaller scale, the forest-clearing behavior previously shown by sauropods.



"Our model predicted these animals would open the forest enough that sufficient light began to enter the understory, and larger seeds were no longer successful over smaller seeds," explained Doughty. 



"The evolutionary pressure for seed size to increase began to diminish. Thus, we were able to explain the trends in seed size over time without resorting to external influences such as climate change."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-megafauna-extinction-and-ecological-reset">Megafauna extinction and ecological reset</h2>



About 50,000 years ago, large mammals like mammoths went extinct. These animals previously opened forests by knocking down trees and clearing vegetation. Their extinction allowed forests to become dense and dark again. 



With less sunlight reaching the forest floor, plants adapted by producing larger seeds. This highlights how big animals shape their environment, influencing the evolution of plants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-as-ecosystem-shapers">Humans as ecosystem shapers </h2>



Modern human activity mimics the prehistoric impacts of the giants. Current selective forest harvesting mimics the prehistoric pressure imposed by dinosaurs on seed size and dispersal.



But if humans stop modifying forest structure and are not substituted by other megafauna, forests will shift back to more dense, dark structures, and this may trigger another evolutionary adjustment towards larger seeds. 



"These results provide a striking example of how large dinosaurs - and their eventual extinction - not only shaped their contemporary environment but also triggered cascading effects on ecosystems for millions of years," said Benjamin Wiebe, an NAU researcher.



"The next time you're eating fruit or pondering, 'why am I here,' consider the impact of the dinosaur extinctions."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/pala.70002" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Palaeontology</a>.



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How dinosaur extinction influenced fruit evolution

The natural environment is repeatedly reinventing itself with dynamic processes...

Flowers that lose their initial charm often end up in the trash. This might seem normal when the petals wither, yet many of these blooms are still valuable.



Scientists are exploring opportunities to use edible varieties of these flowers. They are checking their nutrients, flavors, and possible effects on food quality and shelf life.



“Rose flowers are still going to be rose flowers on Valentine’s Day. But we are looking at what happens the day after Valentine’s Day to those flowers,” said Anand Mohan, associate professor in UGA’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.



Some flowers offer natural pigments that could replace synthetic colorants. Others contain antioxidants and proteins that might strengthen nutritional content in everyday meals.



Flowers with broad petals sometimes carry protective compounds that can guard meats, cereals, or even beverages against spoilage. These qualities are drawing attention in food science.



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



Researchers highlight that ultrasound waves help process many foods with less time and resource use. They also see the potential for ultrasound to extend a flower’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/food-waste-crisis-why-u-s-goals-remain-out-of-reach/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">usability</a> beyond a typical bouquet’s lifespan.



Ultrasound equipment works by sending waves into the material. Those waves move water away more efficiently and release beneficial compounds locked inside the petals.



When handled properly, this low-frequency technology can disrupt cell walls and let colorants, proteins, and vitamins flow into a solution. Once extracted, these compounds can be turned into powders or liquids.



Ultrasound may open up new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-freezer-can-play-a-key-role-in-reducing-food-waste/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prospects</a> for turning leftover petals into color boosters or dietary enhancements. This shift could reduce waste and get more mileage out of every bloom.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flower-petals-as-food-ingredients">Flower petals as food ingredients</h2>



“We are trying to use edible flowers as a source of protein, food colorant and vitamins,” said Mohan. 



Some species of broccoli flowers have protein content that can be blended into cereals. Others, like hibiscus, yield a vibrant color that can replace artificial dyes.



Much of the effort involves pinpointing the right flower for the right purpose. Roses might suit meat preservation, while marigolds might fit as an ingredient in certain sauces.



Scientists also look at how different varieties thrive in changing climates. The goal is to identify flowers that stay strong and maintain a steady supply for the food <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/digital-labels-help-grocers-cut-food-waste/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">market</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-flavor-and-shelf-life">Balancing flavor and shelf life</h2>



Edible flowers might shift taste profiles. Some bring a delicate note, while others contribute a mild bitterness or herbal kick.



Preserving these flowers isn’t always easy. Traditional drying can be slow and may destroy color and aroma.



Hot air drying often leads to a dimmer petal hue. Ultrasound pretreatment shortens drying time and cuts the browning that heat can trigger.



The result is a dried ingredient that can be crushed or powdered. This form is simple to ship and store, making it perfect for large-scale food production.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-keeping-color-intact">Keeping color intact</h2>



Many edible flowers get their bright appearance from anthocyanins or other plant chemicals. Heat can degrade these compounds, turning a vibrant petal into a dull one.



Ultrasound can reduce this risk by aiding quick water removal and limiting direct high-heat exposure. It also stalls enzymes like polyphenol oxidase, which spark browning.



A mild ultrasound phase maintains crucial pigments. The finished product retains most of its original shade.



Manufacturers see this as a bonus since vibrant natural colors attract consumers who want fewer artificial additives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extracting-beneficial-compounds">Extracting beneficial compounds</h2>



Beyond color, certain petal extracts carry valuable antioxidants that can guard against cell damage in the body. Ultrasound helps release these compounds into a friendly solvent.



Shorter extraction times mean less chance of thermal stress. This helps safeguard delicate vitamins or volatile oils.



Blue butterfly pea flower is one example. Studies show ultrasound extraction can bolster its antioxidant content while preserving its bright blue color.



Manufacturers can incorporate these concentrates into teas or juices. They gain both natural coloring and potential health perks in one go.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-advanced-techniques">Other advanced techniques</h2>



Microwave drying is another approach that rapidly heats petals. While quick, it can cause uneven heat distribution that may damage fragile flowers.



Infrared drying works at lower temperatures and keeps more nutrients intact. Its reach is shallower, so thicker petals might need extra time.



Ionizing radiation shows promise for sterilizing edible flowers. Yet consumer perception around radiation remains skeptical.



Ultrasound stands out for its mild thermal impact, which protects fragile compounds and saves energy. It has its own set of hurdles, but the results are enticing enough to keep it in the spotlight.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-safe-consistent-results">Safe, consistent results</h2>



Ultrasound tools can be loud. The process involves intense vibrations that could affect hearing if workers aren’t shielded or if machines aren’t set up properly.



High-powered waves might also damage petal tissues if misused. Researchers must find the ideal treatment for each flower type.



The scale of production equipment is another factor. Small labs produce small batches, but bigger systems must ensure even coverage. Careful regulation of wave intensity and duration is essential for safe, consistent results.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-turning-flowers-into-food-products">Turning flowers into food products</h2>



Companies in the beverage sector can look into floral extracts that add aroma or color. Start-ups might explore using leftover wedding or holiday flowers as raw material.



Supermarkets that toss out unsold blooms could partner with local facilities to transform them into new products. This idea saves money and reduces <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-age-group-is-responsible-for-the-most-food-waste/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trash</a>.



Shoppers might soon see ready-to-use flower powders or meal-ready petals in store aisles. The next step involves marketing that resonates with people looking for color and flavor without synthetic additives.



Many chefs are already known for edible petals on plates. Scaling this practice for everyday consumers is the bigger challenge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-edible-flowers-can-reduce-waste">Edible flowers can reduce waste</h2>



Flowers are grown year-round and shipped worldwide, but not all get purchased. Food scientists are pointing to these extras as a wasted resource.



Turning unsold flowers into extracts or powders addresses sustainability goals. It also recovers part of the cost that might otherwise vanish.



This loop of repurposing reduces the carbon footprint of the floral industry. People who want environmentally friendly options appreciate any step that rescues edible raw materials. Ultrasound-based processing could be a central tool in achieving that.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flowers-in-food-and-skincare">Flowers in food and skincare</h2>



Scientists are testing how flower-derived proteins boost nutritional value in everyday items like bars, cereals, or wraps. Others are exploring their potential in functional drinks or skincare lines.



The synergy between vitamins in certain petals and antioxidants in others might produce new solutions to common nutritional gaps. Such breakthroughs hinge on fine-tuning extraction and drying methods.



As more labs share positive data, companies could invest in research for large-scale production. This shift might reshape how we treat floral byproducts across multiple industries. 



Consumers might not see the behind-the-scenes processes, but they’ll notice new labels highlighting real flower extracts.



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



Some researchers see a future where local florists have partnerships with local food processors. The idea might grow as the data becomes more widely circulated.



Regulatory bodies need to establish clear guidelines for these new ingredients. Safety checks and labeling rules must be in place so that shoppers can trust the products.



Ultrasound might remain popular because of its non-destructive nature. Expanding beyond flowers, it might someday help reclaim other items that go to waste. For now, the excitement around edible flowers keeps building.



The study is published in the <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jfpe.70012" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Food Process Engineering</a>.



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Flowers as food: How ultrasound makes it possible

Flowers that lose their initial charm often end up in...

For centuries, humans have explored the potential of mushrooms. Valued not only for their unique flavors, mushrooms have also been revered for their medicinal properties, including their ability to enhance immunity and promote overall health.



These ancient perceptions are now being confirmed by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-bacteria-help-plants-balance-growth-and-immunity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">science</a>, which has found that mushrooms have more than gastronomic value.



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



One small yet remarkably significant component found in all mushrooms - beta-glucan - has recently gained the attention of scientists, thanks to its potential role in combating the flu. 



While mushrooms are often celebrated for their nutritional value, this particular compound has been highlighted for its ability to bolster the immune system. 



Beta-glucan is a naturally occurring polysaccharide that enhances the body's defense mechanisms, making it a promising ally in the battle against various viral infections, including the flu. 



Though it may seem surprising at first, this unassuming fungal ingredient could play a pivotal role in helping to prevent or mitigate the severity of flu infections, offering a new avenue for research into natural immune support.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mushrooms-and-wellness">Mushrooms and wellness</h2>



In the food and health industry, mushrooms have achieved superfood status due to their nutrient-dense structure of vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds. Their application in diets worldwide has been shifted from being flavor-based to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-tiny-bacteria-outsmart-the-human-immune-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health-based</a>.



Mushrooms are linked to improved brain health, as evidence shows that they may help protect against cognitive decline. Mushrooms also contribute to better digestive health with their fiber content.



A new study sheds light on a special role of mushrooms in health maintenance beyond what was previously recognized. 



According to the research, mushrooms might assist the body in keeping infections at bay and preventing harmful inflammation. The experts report that mushrooms might render flu infections less damaging. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-mushrooms-fight-the-flu">How mushrooms fight the flu</h2>



Researchers at <a href="https://www.mcgill.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McGill University</a> in Canada investigated the intriguing effect of beta-glucan on the immune system response to flu. 



The findings indicate that the natural fiber can help people manage flu infections by inhibiting the out-of-control inflammation that usually leads to complications.



"It is tempting to hypothesize that the levels and composition of fungi in an individual could influence how their immune system responds to infections, in part because of beta-glucan," noted study co-author and immunologist Maziar Divangahi.



This is an optimistic departure from conventional flu <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/temperatures-impact-the-immune-system-of-wild-monkeys/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">treatment</a> protocols.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-keeping-immunity-in-check">Keeping immunity in check</h2>



Beta-glucan, present in fungi cell walls, has been shown to possess immune-stimulating activity. But the study identifies a significant role - it maintains immune balance.



Instead of provoking an out-of-control immune reaction, beta-glucan provokes a controlled reaction within the body, restricting uncontrolled inflammation, which is typically the main threat in extreme cases of the flu.



The researchers tested beta-glucan on mice, infecting some with the flu virus after <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-lockdowns-weakened-our-immune-systems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">treatment</a> with beta-glucan.



What they found was remarkable. The treated mice had very little lung inflammation, improved lung function, and a very low probability of becoming seriously ill or dying, even though the mice received no beta-glucan.



Another fascinating finding of the study is the impact of beta-glucan on neutrophils, a type of immune cell. 



Normally, neutrophils induce inflammation, which has the consequence of exacerbating flu infections. Beta-glucan alters their function and makes them resistant to inducing over-inflammation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-flu-prevention-with-mushrooms">Future of flu prevention with mushrooms</h2>



For years, conventional flu medications have targeted antiviral drugs that directly assault the virus. Antiviral drugs, though, have limitations. Certain strains of the flu develop resistance, and not every patient responds to antivirals.



The study proposes another approach that centers on enhancing the body's immunity against infection, thus opening a new chapter in the treatment of flu.



The study reinforces the idea that edibles can have medicinal benefits. While further research is needed, mushrooms may soon shift from a nutritious ingredient to a vital component for enhancing immunity and protecting against severe respiratory diseases.



As scientific research continues to uncover the immune-boosting benefits of mushrooms, they may soon become a vital component of flu prevention <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reprogramming-the-immune-system-to-attack-cancer-cells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protocols</a>. 



Ultimately, mushrooms are more than just a nutritious food - they are a powerful ally in strengthening the immune system.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41590-024-02041-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Immunology</a>.



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How mushrooms help the body fight off the flu

For centuries, humans have explored the potential of mushrooms. Valued...

Muscle health plays a vital role in overall well-being, affecting strength, mobility, and longevity. While exercise and protein intake have long been the cornerstones of muscle maintenance, new research suggests that diet alone may have a powerful influence. 



A recent study from Western New England University (WNE) has introduced an unexpected player in muscle health - grapes.



This study reveals that consuming grapes daily could alter muscle gene expression, potentially enhancing strength and resilience. These findings offer a new perspective on how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/resveratrol-may-boost-female-fertility-naturally/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural foods</a> impact the body at a genetic level.



With millions of people struggling with age-related muscle loss, the potential benefits of grapes in maintaining muscle function are both exciting and significant.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exceeding-nutritional-benefits">Exceeding nutritional benefits</h2>



Every year, people around the world consume approximately 30 million tons of grapes, making them one of the most widely eaten fruits. 



While they are valued for their rich nutritional content, their health benefits extend well beyond basic nutrition. 



Scientific research has shown that grapes positively impact various aspects of health, including cardiovascular function, kidney health, and skin vitality.



Additionally, grapes contain compounds that support eye health by protecting against oxidative stress, which can contribute to vision decline. 



Their role in gastrointestinal health is also noteworthy, as grapes promote digestion and contribute to a balanced gut microbiome.



With their wide-ranging <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/muscles-defy-aging-with-remarkable-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health advantages</a>, grapes have become more than just a tasty fruit - they are a natural source of essential compounds that support overall well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grapes-change-muscle-genes">Grapes change muscle genes</h2>



With this study, researchers have shed light on the dynamic influence daily grape consumption exerts on muscle gene expression. 



The effects are significantly more profound in females, which intriguingly brings male and female muscle characteristics closer to each other at a metabolic level.



Genes tied to lean muscle mass showed an upward trend, while those related to muscle degeneration displayed a decline, pointing towards improved muscle function. 



These revelations open up potential pathways for tackling age-related <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-muscles-may-soon-be-able-to-regenerate-like-other-muscles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">muscle</a> loss, a challenge faced by 10-16% of elderly individuals.



Dr. John Pezzuto, senior investigator of the study, is the Dean of Pharmacy and Health Sciences at <a href="https://wne.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Western New England University</a>.



"This study provides compelling evidence that grapes have the potential to enhance muscle health at the genetic level," noted Dr. Pezzuto.



"Given their safety profile and widespread availability, it will be exciting to explore how quickly these changes can be observed in human trials."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-do-grapes-affect-muscles">How do grapes affect muscles?</h2>



The fascinating field of nutrigenomics discusses the influence of diet on gene expression and the corresponding impact of genetic variation on dietary responses. 



The researchers examined how daily intake of two servings of grapes impacted genetic expression patterns within muscle. 



Intriguingly, the male and female muscles that usually exhibit significant differences converged into a unified phenotype under the grape-inclusive diet.



The DNA of a single species, including humans, doesn’t vary notably from one individual to another. However, the primary factor that sets us apart is the expression of DNA, otherwise known as the phenotype. 



The ingestion of grapes brought about changes in the phenotypic gene expression of male and female muscle, predominantly in females, resulting in an aligned metabolic parameter between the two.



In another fascinating observation, specific genes linked with favorable muscle health - such as lean muscle mass - were enhanced. At the same time, genes associated with deteriorating muscle health were reduced.



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



The researchers plan to conduct further studies to understand the specific biological processes responsible for these genetic changes in muscle function. 



They also aim to determine how quickly these changes occur after regular grape consumption.



By identifying the exact mechanisms behind this phenomenon, scientists can better assess how grapes contribute to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-fuels-neuron-growth-through-muscle-signals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">muscle health</a> and whether their effects vary among different individuals.



As nutrigenomics advances, this study represents a significant step toward developing new dietary strategies for maintaining muscle strength and preventing age-related decline. 



If future research confirms these findings, incorporating grapes into daily nutrition could become a practical and accessible way to support muscle health across all age groups. 



This study opens the door for a deeper exploration of how natural foods can positively influence the body at the genetic level.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/14/4/695" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Foods</a>.



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Eating grapes every day can transform your body in a unique way

Muscle health plays a vital role in overall well-being, affecting...

In 2018, a wildfire engulfed nearly two thousand hectares of shrubland in the ecologically critical area of Pichu Pichu volcano, located in Peru's Andean region. 



Unlike Mediterranean ecosystems, vegetation on the volcanic soils of Arequipa - one of the world's driest regions - has not evolved to recover from fire disturbances.



A team of researchers from the Miguel Hernández University of Elche <a href="https://www.umh.es/?lang=EN" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(UMH)</a> embarked on a study to assess the impact of wildfire events on such fragile ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unprepared-for-wildfire">Unprepared for wildfire</h2>



The researchers dug deep into the soil, collecting and examining samples from the fire-charred area, 3,700 meters above sea level.



The findings of the study, published in the Spanish Journal of Soil Science, reveal that the fire not only burned the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/changes-in-vegetation-are-a-key-driver-of-global-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a>, but also scarred the soil. This was evident even four years after the event.



Post-fire erosion has resulted in a severe loss of soil organic carbon (SOC), which is an essential factor for soil fertility. The loss of SOC also leads to compaction, making the soil more inhospitable to new plant growth.



"The Peruvian Andes are not prepared for wildfires," noted Jorge Mataix Solera, a scientist who has spent over three decades studying post-fire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-uncover-effects-of-wildfires-on-soil-chemistry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil recovery</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-slow-and-difficult-recovery-in-the-andes">Slow and difficult recovery in the Andes</h2>



Solera further explained that the consequences of wildfires vary significantly based on the ecology of the region, but that in the Andes the combined effect of loss of vegetation and loss of soil organic carbon made recovery extremely difficult and slow.



The study highlighted that Pichu Pichu's soil was severely affected by the fire and showed substantial physical and chemical degradation, which further hampered the ecological recovery process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-burned-soil-lost-resilience">Burned soil, lost resilience</h2>



The study identified the soil's natural propensity to repel water, which was aggravated by the loss of the vegetation, as a significant impediment to recovery.



Without vegetation to retain moisture, water just slides off the surface of the volcanic soil, leading to accelerated erosion.



"While well-structured and evolved soils, such as Mediterranean soils, have a high water-holding capacity, young volcanic Andean soils, which are naturally sandy, lose this ability after fire-induced organic matter loss," explained UMH researcher&nbsp;Minerva García Carmona.



With the soil's inability to hold water directly influencing its degradation, scientists need to understand the impact of fire on these young, fragile soils.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-species-and-soil-degradation">Plant species and soil degradation</h2>



Of particular importance is the role of different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thousands-of-plant-species-remain-unphotographed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant species</a>, which serve as the combustible material in wildfires and affect soil degradation.



The research focused on two native plant species that dominate the vegetation: Berberis lutea, known locally as "palo amarillo del Perú," and Parastrephia quadrangularis, or "tola."



The study revealed that soils under Berberis lutea bushes underwent greater degradation after a wildfire. This could have been due to the fact that this shrub is a larger plant with a higher biomass, which would have provided more fuel for combustion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfires-on-the-rise">Wildfires on the rise</h2>



Peru’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-season-of-2023-redefined-what-is-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfire season</a> typically peaks between July and October, but recent years have seen a troubling surge in fire activity. 



In September 2024, the Queimadas satellite monitoring project recorded an unprecedented 7,037 wildfire hotspots across the country - the highest on record.



This escalation in fire activity highlights the urgent need to understand how soil in fire-prone regions responds to these new fire regimes.



“In a region like Arequipa, located in a desert environment, understanding soil response under new fire regimes is essential for assessing ecosystem resilience to climate change,” noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-significance-of-wildfire-research">Global significance of wildfire research </h2>



Solera emphasized the global significance of wildfire research. He believes that the more we study these impacts, the better we can design prevention strategies and post-fire treatments to mitigate the long-term effects of rising temperatures and prolonged <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-persistent-droughts-will-impact-wildlife-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">droughts</a>.



“This is as critical in Peru as it is in Spain or California. Although fire is a natural phenomenon, the climate crisis is exacerbating these events, and we must do everything possible to restore and protect these ecosystems,” concluded Solera.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/journals/spanish-journal-of-soil-science/articles/10.3389/sjss.2025.13983/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spanish Journal of Soil Science</a>.



Image Credit: Jorge Mataix Solera



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Burned and barren: How wildfires transform volcanic soils

In 2018, a wildfire engulfed nearly two thousand hectares of...

Orchids are among the most diverse and fascinating plants in the world. Their ability to adapt to different environments has allowed them to thrive in forests, grasslands, and even rocky terrains. 



While most orchids rely on photosynthesis to produce their own food, a few species have taken a different path. Instead of creating their own energy, they survive by feeding on fungi.



This parasitic shift raises an intriguing question: why would a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/adelopetalum-argyropus-new-orchid-species-discovered-resembles-small-cupcake/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a> abandon its ability to produce food and depend entirely on another organism?



Kobe University researchers explored this mystery by studying Oreorchis patens, an orchid that exists in both photosynthetic and parasitic forms. The findings suggest that this transition may not be a matter of necessity but rather an opportunity that arises under specific conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-photosynthesis-and-parasitism">Balancing photosynthesis and parasitism</h2>



Most orchids maintain a symbiotic relationship with fungi. The plants supply sugars produced through photosynthesis, while fungi provide water and essential nutrients. 



This relationship benefits both organisms and is a key survival strategy for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/despite-their-incredible-adaptability-orchids-are-disappearing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orchids</a> in nutrient-poor environments. However, some orchids no longer contribute to this exchange. Instead of photosynthesizing, they take all their nutrients from fungi, effectively becoming parasites.



“I’ve always been intrigued by how orchids turn parasitic. Why would a plant give up its reliance on photosynthesis and instead ‘steal’ from fungi?” noted <a href="https://www.kobe-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe University</a> botanist Suetsugu Kenji.



This question led researchers to examine Oreorchis patens, a species that offers a rare glimpse into the transition from mutualism to parasitism.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-orchid-s-dual-strategy">An orchid’s dual strategy</h2>



Unlike fully parasitic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-orchids-have-fingers-to-pollinate-themselves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orchids</a>, Oreorchis patens still retains its ability to photosynthesize. However, it can also absorb up to half of its nutrients from fungi. This makes it an excellent model for studying why some orchids partially abandon photosynthesis.



Suetsugu observed that some Oreorchis patens individuals develop unusual coral-shaped rootstalks. These structures resemble those found in orchids that rely entirely on fungi. 



“I thought that this would allow me to compare plants with these organs to those with normal roots, quantify how much extra nutrients they might be gaining, and determine whether that extra translates into enhanced growth or reproductive success,” said Suetsugu.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wood-helps-orchids-absorb-fungi-nutrients">Wood helps orchids absorb fungi nutrients</h2>



To uncover the role of fungi in this process, researchers examined orchids growing in different environments. Their study, published in The Plant Journal, revealed a fascinating pattern. 



When Oreorchis patens grows near decomposing wood, it shifts its fungal partners to species that break down rotting material. This shift allows the orchid to extract significantly more nutrients from its fungal hosts.



Surprisingly, despite its increased reliance on fungi, the orchid does not stop photosynthesizing. Instead, the extra nutrients enhance its growth, making it larger and more robust. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orchid-parents-nurture-seedlings-through-fungal-networks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orchids</a> in these conditions also produce more flowers, indicating a clear reproductive advantage.



“In short, these orchids aren’t merely substituting for diminished photosynthesis, they’re boosting their overall nutrient budget," noted Suetsugu.



"This clear, adaptive link between fungal parasitism and improved plant vigor is, to me, the most thrilling aspect of our discovery, as it provides a concrete ecological explanation for why a photosynthetic plant might choose this path.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-don-t-all-orchids-become-parasites">Why don’t all orchids become parasites?</h2>



Despite the apparent benefits, fewer than 10% of Oreorchis patens individuals exhibit parasitic behavior. The researchers noticed that parasitic orchids were only found near fallen and rotting tree trunks. 



This suggests that switching to parasitism requires a specific set of conditions, particularly the presence of fungi that can handle an increased nutritional load.



These specialized fungi thrive in decaying wood but only at certain stages of decomposition. Since such conditions are rare and unpredictable, most Oreorchis patens individuals continue relying primarily on photosynthesis. 



The transition to parasitism happens only when the right fungi are available, not necessarily when the orchid needs extra nutrients.



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



Although this study sheds light on why some orchids turn parasitic, many questions remain. Scientists still do not know what triggers the development of the coral-like rootstalks in Oreorchis patens. 



Environmental factors likely play a role, but the exact mechanisms remain unclear. Another question is how flexible the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orchid-bees-are-endangered-by-deforestation-in-the-amazon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orchid</a> is in choosing its fungal partners and whether other species exhibit similar behavior.



Suetsugu sees this research as part of a larger effort to understand the full range of plant lifestyles. 



“This work is part of a broader effort to unravel the continuum from photosynthesis to complete parasitism," said Suetsugu.



"Ultimately, I hope such discoveries will deepen our understanding of the diverse strategies orchids employ to balance different lifestyles, thereby aiding in the preservation of the incredible diversity of these plants in our forests."



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



Understanding how orchids interact with fungi is essential for conservation efforts. Many parasitic orchids depend on specific fungal species, which means changes in forest ecosystems could threaten their survival. 



By studying these relationships, researchers can better predict how orchids will respond to environmental changes and how best to protect them.



This research was supported by the <a href="https://www.jsps.go.jp/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Japan Society for the Promotion of Science</a>, the Japan Science and Technology Agency (<a href="https://www.jst.go.jp/EN/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JST</a>), and the <a href="https://www.chikyu.ac.jp/rihn_e/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Research Institute for Humanity and Nature</a>. 



The study is published in <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/tpj.70045" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Plant Journal</a>.



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Some orchids turn parasitic when conditions allow

Orchids are among the most diverse and fascinating plants in...

The natural world has long adapted to Earth’s changing climate, but there are limits to what living organisms can withstand. Plants, in particular, play a crucial role in maintaining the planet’s balance by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. 



However, new research suggests that rising temperatures may push <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-release-carbon-faster-than-we-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> beyond their limits, altering their ability to regulate the environment.



Scientists have traditionally believed that plants conserve water by closing their pores during extreme heat. 



But Dr. Sean Michaletz, a botany professor at the <a href="https://www.ubc.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of British Columbia</a>, has uncovered a surprising reality.



His research suggests that plants lose more water than expected, potentially weakening their role in climate regulation. If these findings are accurate, they could reshape how we predict future warming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-help-control-carbon-and-water-cycles">Plants help control carbon and water cycles</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-absorb-31-more-co2-than-previously-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plants</a> are essential to life on Earth. Through photosynthesis, they take in carbon dioxide, convert it into energy, and release oxygen. 



This process allows them to function as a carbon sink, absorbing greenhouse gases that would otherwise contribute to global warming.



In addition to their role in carbon absorption, plants regulate the water cycle. They release water vapor into the atmosphere, which helps cool the planet and maintain humidity levels. 



However, as temperatures rise, this delicate balance may be shifting in unexpected ways.



Dr. Michaletz’s research suggests that rising heat forces plants to lose more water through their cuticle, a waxy layer on their leaves. 



Unlike their pores, which can close to prevent water loss, the cuticle remains open. The thinner the cuticle, the more water a plant loses.



This process could reduce photosynthesis, limit carbon absorption, and even turn plants into carbon sources under extreme conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-risk-of-plant-water-loss">Hidden risk of plant water loss</h2>



For decades, scientists assumed that plants primarily lost water through their pores, which could close during dry or hot conditions. 



This belief shaped climate models and water cycle predictions. However, new findings indicate that cuticle-based water loss may be more significant than previously thought.



“When temperatures rise, plants lose more water through their cuticle than through their pores,” explained Dr. Michaletz. “This limits their ability to absorb <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-soils-release-more-carbon-than-plants-can-replace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a> and reduces their role as a carbon sink.”



In extreme heat, plants may struggle to maintain photosynthesis, absorbing less carbon while continuing to release water. 



If temperatures climb too high, forests and other ecosystems could shift from storing carbon to emitting it. This shift would accelerate climate change and disrupt global ecosystems.



Dr. Michaletz estimates that a single medium-sized leaf exposed to 50°C could lose about one-third of a teaspoon of water per day through its cuticle. 



Scaled up to an entire forest, this effect could significantly alter global water and carbon cycles.



Current climate models may underestimate this impact, leading scientists to reassess predictions for future warming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-heat-can-make-plants-stop-working">Extreme heat can make plants stop working</h2>



Not all plants respond to heat in the same way. Some species can tolerate extreme temperatures, while others begin to suffer as soon as conditions become too warm. 



A study conducted in Vancouver examined 200 plant species to determine their heat tolerance.



“Our research suggests that photosynthesis starts to break down between 40 and 51°C,” said Dr. Michaletz. “During the 2021 heat dome, temperatures soared to 49.6°C, pushing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-carbon-sinks-are-being-pushed-to-their-limits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> to their limits.”



If temperatures continue rising, plants could reach a critical breaking point. The research team estimates that 60°C may be the maximum temperature plants can survive. 



Beyond this threshold, proteins inside plant cells break down, leading to irreversible damage and eventual death.



While some desert and tropical plants have evolved to withstand extreme heat, most species do not have the same resilience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-may-turn-into-carbon-sources">Plants may turn into carbon sources</h2>



Understanding how heat affects plant life is essential for predicting climate change. If plants reach their temperature limits, they may stop <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-absorb-31-more-co2-than-previously-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">absorbing carbon dioxide</a> and instead release it, contributing to warming rather than slowing it.



“Globally, researchers are working to determine the ‘tipping point’ where Earth’s vegetation releases more carbon dioxide than it absorbs, switching from a carbon sink to a carbon source,” said Dr. Michaletz.



“Our estimates suggest this could happen around 30°C, though key uncertainties remain - especially how microclimates and water availability affect photosynthesis under extreme heat.”



With Earth’s average temperature already at 16°C, this threshold may be closer than expected. If plant ecosystems begin releasing more carbon than they store, global temperatures could rise even faster than current models predict.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-biosphere-2">Lessons from Biosphere 2</h2>



The relationship between plants and the environment has long fascinated scientists, leading to experiments that test how vegetation responds to extreme conditions. 



One of the most ambitious projects in ecological research was <a href="https://biosphere2.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biosphere 2</a>, an enclosed facility designed to simulate an independent ecosystem.



As a postdoctoral researcher, Dr. Michaletz worked at Biosphere 2, which was originally created as a self-sustaining environment. 



Scientists, known as biospherians, were sealed inside to see if humans could survive without external oxygen or supplies.



“Biosphere 2 later transitioned into a research and public education center, where I studied how high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-climate-changes-have-drastic-effects-on-tropical-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures affect plants</a> in its experimental rainforest,” said Dr. Michaletz.



The original experiment revealed unexpected challenges. Carbon dioxide levels rose due to chemical reactions within the facility, and prolonged isolation caused psychological stress among participants. 



These unexpected results highlighted the complexities of maintaining an artificial environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-close-are-we-to-the-limit">How close are we to the limit?</h2>



Plants have survived shifts in climate for millions of years, but they are not invincible. 



They have upper limits, set by the physical laws governing their biological processes. While some plants have adapted to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-climates-force-plants-to-compete-with-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survive heat stress</a>, many others cannot withstand prolonged extreme temperatures.



Scientists are now working to pinpoint exactly when and where vegetation will begin to struggle under rising global temperatures. 



Some recent measurements suggest that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-diverse-crops-traps-carbon-and-boosts-soil-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> may already be approaching dangerous heat thresholds.



If global warming continues unchecked, plants may lose their ability to regulate the carbon in the environment, triggering a chain reaction of climate feedback loops.



The question now is not whether plants will be affected by rising temperatures, but how soon the consequences will be felt. 



Understanding these limits is crucial for predicting the future of Earth’s ecosystems and the role plants will play in a rapidly warming world.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/nph.20346" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a>.



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Plants may stop absorbing carbon if temperatures continue to rise

The natural world has long adapted to Earth’s changing climate,...

Cocoa is the backbone of the $100 billion chocolate industry, and the source of livelihood for millions of small-scale cocoa farmers in warm tropical climates. Unfortunately, climate change makes it increasingly difficult for these farmers to maintain productivity, putting the future of this crop under growing threat.



The increased global consumption of cocoa has already provoked plantation expansion and intensified cultivation schemes - frequently at the expense of local biodiversity and long-term ecosystem resilience.



As the sector struggles with these issues, scientists are working on solutions that can safeguard cocoa production and the ecosystems they depend on. New findings suggest that nature itself may hold the key to securing cocoa’s future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skyrocketing-cocoa-costs">Skyrocketing cocoa costs</h2>



In December 2024, cocoa prices soared to an unprecedented $12,646 per metric ton. Experts link this jump to years of adverse weather, which has been linked to climate change, and the cocoa swollen shoot virus in West Africa. 



As a result, manufacturing costs for chocolate have surged more than 167% over the past two years, forcing retailers to raise prices.



Consumers now face higher chocolate costs at checkout, weighing whether a favorite sweet is worth the extra expense.



Hershey’s buying practices mean current cocoa costs won’t hit shelves right away. Still, the company stated, “We continue to collaborate with our retail partners to ensure we offer a variety of products that meet the right occasions and price points for our consumers.” A 1-pound bar of Hershey’s remains $14.99 for now.



Dirk Van de Put of Mondelez International cited “unprecedented cocoa cost inflation,” while cocoa futures rose 143%. 



“Every time we get rain in West Africa, the futures change. People are watching it that close. It’s just crazy. There’s a lot of money on the table in this exchange,” said Branch. 



The Ivory Coast and Ghana produce 70% of all cocoa, making adverse weather and disease - often tied to climate change - key factors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-threats-to-cocoa-farming">Climate threats to cocoa farming</h2>



A collaborative research effort has shed light on the growing risks that climate change poses to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cocoa-production-in-africa-is-under-extreme-climate-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cocoa production</a>.



More significantly, the study suggests possible methods for farmers to maintain productivity, without further encroaching on our much-needed forests.



The research, which sought to understand the crucial factors that shape cocoa yields, was conducted in Brazil, Ghana, and Indonesia, whose combined production covers a third of the world's cocoa.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollinators-boost-yields-up-to-20">Pollinators boost yields up to 20%</h2>



One key finding of the study was that increased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insect-apocalypse-australasia-is-facing-a-hidden-pollination-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollination</a> rates could effectively augment yields by a significant fifth. 



As understood from the study, many cocoa plantations are currently incompletely pollinated, which prevents them from reaching their full yield potential.



"Cocoa is pollinated by tiny insects such as midges and thrips, and it comes as quite a surprise that most of the time there simply isn’t enough pollination happening to produce the cocoa crop that is possible," said Dr. Acheampong Atta-Boateng, who recently completed his doctoral work at the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a>.



Changes in temperature also influence yields, a fact that highlights the vulnerability of cocoa-producing regions to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. 



Sites where temperatures were higher by up to 7 degrees recorded cocoa yields that were reduced by between 20 and 31%.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cocoa-farming-vs-future-climate">Cocoa farming vs. future climate</h2>



The concluding recommendations of the study highlight practical, feasible strategies to enhance pollination and manage the growing impact of climate change. 



Priorities include maintaining leaf litter and other understory biomass, preserving soil organic matter, providing suitable shade, and cutting back on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-herbicides-linked-to-diminished-brain-functioning-in-young-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemical use in agriculture</a>.



"This research shows that sustainable agricultural methods can significantly improve cocoa yields without farm expansion or intensification," stressed Dr. Tonya Lander from the University of Oxford, the lead author of the study.



By adopting biodiversity-centered, climate-resilient farming techniques, the cocoa sector can both increase production and safeguard farmers' livelihoods.



"The rising demand for cocoa and the short-term economic benefits to farmers has led to plantation expansion and ecological homogenization at the expense of biodiversity and vital ecosystem services, like pollination," said Dr. Tom Wanger of <a href="https://en.westlake.edu.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Westlake University</a> in China.



"This study highlights the long-term risks of this approach, and how pollination can be a solution that works, alongside climate-resilient agricultural systems, to achieve long-term, ecologically and financially sustainable solutions," he concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implementing-sustainable-practices">Implementing sustainable practices</h2>



Although the research emphasizes increased pollination and climate-resilient agriculture, the adoption of these practices on a large scale needs unified action by farmers, policy makers, and industry leaders.



The small-scale cocoa farmers, who are the backbone of the industry, do not have access to the resources and information for adopting these sustainable farming practices.



One of the most significant challenges is striking a balance between short-term economic pressures and long-term sustainability. 



Most farmers operate on limited finances, making it hard to invest in biodiversity-friendly methods or move away from chemical-based agriculture. 



Offering financial incentives, such as subsidies or premium pricing for sustainably grown cocoa, may help bridge this gap by encouraging farmers to adopt more eco-friendly practices.



Additionally, farmer training and education initiatives can enable producers to learn about the importance of pollinators and adopt practices that promote biodiversity.



Methods such as agroforestry - growing cocoa trees with other indigenous plants - can increase pollination rates while also providing additional sources of income.



Though demand stays strong, rising production expenses and uncertain supply may reshape chocolate prices for years to come.



However, by investing in sustainable solutions now, the cocoa sector can help ensure that generations to come can still enjoy chocolate while protecting the livelihoods of farmers and the ecosystems that support them.



---



This study was an international collaboration involving scientists from the University of Oxford, Westlake University in China, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz in Brazil, and the University of Göttingen in Germany



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/commsenv/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a>.



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Chocolate and cocoa prices have doubled in the past year, here's why

Cocoa is the backbone of the $100 billion chocolate industry,...

Scientists are constantly searching for ways to improve crop yields, enhance food quality, and speed up plant breeding. Traditional methods take years, sometimes decades, to create new crop varieties with better genetic traits. 



However, researchers at the University of Queensland (<a href="https://www.uq.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UQ</a>) have introduced a remarkable technique that could change the future of agriculture.



For the first time, the experts have successfully delivered genetic material into plants through their roots. This approach, detailed in the journal Nature Plants, offers a faster and more efficient way to modify plants. 



By using nanoparticles to transport synthetic mRNA, the researchers have opened new possibilities for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-technology-will-accelerate-the-pace-of-plant-species-discovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agricultural advancements</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nanoparticles-carry-genetic-material-in-plants">Nanoparticles carry genetic material in plants</h2>



Professor Bernard Carroll from UQ’s <a href="https://scmb.uq.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences</a> explained how this technology can help fine-tune plant genes. He highlighted the slow and expensive nature of traditional breeding and genetic modification methods.



"Traditional plant breeding and genetic modification take many generations to produce a new crop variety, which is time-consuming and expensive," said Professor Carroll.



The research team has developed a way to introduce nanoparticles into plant roots. These nanoparticles, initially created for vaccine and cancer treatment delivery in animals, have now been repurposed for plant genetic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-use-dna-duplication-to-increase-their-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">modification</a>. 



Professor Gordon Xu’s group at UQ developed these nanoparticles, which offer a promising method for introducing beneficial traits into plants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-getting-past-tough-plant-cell-walls">Getting past tough plant cell walls</h2>



Unlike human or animal cells, plant cells have rigid walls that make genetic modifications challenging. The research team tackled this problem by coating the nanoparticles with a special protein. 



The protein softened the tough plant cell walls, allowing the nanoparticles to penetrate and deliver genetic material directly into the cells.



"The protein coating helped the nanoparticle break through the cell walls to deliver a synthetic mRNA cargo into plants for the first time," said Professor Carroll.



This technique allows scientists to introduce specific genetic instructions into plants. The mRNA molecules serve as messengers, guiding the plant cells to produce desired proteins. 



The researchers tested their method on multiple <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-climates-force-plants-to-compete-with-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant species</a>, including Arabidopsis, a model plant closely related to canola and cabbage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-movement-of-genetic-material-within-plants">Movement of genetic material within plants</h2>



One of the most surprising findings of the study was how the nanoparticles moved within the plant. Instead of releasing their genetic cargo into a single cell, the nanoparticles traveled with water, spreading the mRNA throughout the plant.



"It was surprising that rather than delivering all of its load in the first cell it entered, the nanoparticle traveled with water through the plant distributing the mRNA as it went," said Professor Carroll.



The unexpected movement of nanoparticles opens exciting possibilities for plant genetic modification. If scientists can control and refine this process, they could develop <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-plant-can-cause-severe-burns-and-dna-damage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crops</a> with improved traits much more quickly than before.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-faster-alternative-to-traditional-breeding">Faster alternative to traditional breeding</h2>



The ability to modify plant genes quickly could revolutionize agriculture. Traditional breeding methods require years of careful crossbreeding to achieve desirable traits such as better flavor, increased yield, or improved resistance to pests. 



Genetic modification using conventional methods also involves long and complex processes.



"With further research, we could target an issue with a crop such as flavor or quality and have a new variety without the need for a decade of cross breeding or genetic modification," noted Professor Carroll.



This new nanoparticle-based technique provides a faster alternative. The mRNA delivered into the plant does not permanently alter the plant’s DNA. Instead, it temporarily instructs the plant to produce a beneficial protein and then degrades naturally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-parallel-with-mrna-vaccines">A parallel with mRNA vaccines</h2>



The way this technology works is similar to mRNA vaccines in humans. Just as mRNA vaccines instruct human cells to produce a protein that stimulates the immune system before breaking down, the synthetic mRNA delivered into plants expresses a protein and then disappears.



"Similar to how an mRNA vaccine produces a protein to stimulate the immune system and then degrades away, the mRNA we deliver into plants is expressed transiently and then disappears," said Professor Carroll.



This characteristic makes the technique more adaptable and safer for rapid agricultural improvements. Scientists could use it to introduce temporary changes in plants without affecting their genetic makeup permanently.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-developing-plant-genetics-research">Developing plant genetics research</h2>



The potential applications of this technology extend beyond academic research. 



The University of Queensland has already patented the technique through its commercialization company, UniQuest. They are now looking for partners to help further develop and apply this technology in real-world agriculture.



The research team included experts such as Professor Zhi Pin (Gordon) Xu and Dr. Jiaxi Yong from UQ’s <a href="https://aibn.uq.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology</a> and the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation.



The research could pave the way for faster and more precise <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-fern-contains-50-times-more-dna-than-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crop improvement</a> methods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-game-changer-for-agriculture">A game-changer for agriculture</h2>



The ability to modify plants more efficiently without lengthy breeding cycles or complex genetic modifications could transform food production. Farmers may soon have access to crops with better flavors, higher nutritional value, and greater resilience against environmental stresses.



As this technology advances, researchers will continue refining it to ensure its safety and effectiveness. The next step will be to scale up the process and explore its potential in various agricultural settings.



The discovery marks a new era in crop science, offering a promising path toward improving global food security. With further research and collaboration, this nanoparticle-based approach could redefine how we develop and enhance crops for future generations.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41477-024-01882-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Plants</a>.



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Nanoparticles unlock a new way to genetically modify plants

Scientists are constantly searching for ways to improve crop yields,...

For centuries, cocoa farming has been a lifeline for millions of smallholder farmers across the tropics. It is more than just an agricultural crop; it fuels a global chocolate industry valued at over USD 100 billion annually. 



From the lush plantations of Ghana and Brazil to the rainforests of Indonesia, cocoa remains central to both economic stability and cultural identity. However, as global demand rises, the industry faces an unprecedented challenge.



The need to produce more cocoa has driven the expansion of plantations and intensified farming methods. While this has boosted short-term yields, it has also placed immense pressure on biodiversity and long-term sustainability. 



Now, with climate change threatening production, researchers are urgently seeking solutions that balance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cocoa-production-in-africa-is-under-extreme-climate-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">productivity</a> with ecological stability.



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



A new study led by the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a>, in collaboration with institutions from China, Brazil, and Germany, highlights the looming risks that climate change poses to cocoa farming. 



Rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns could significantly impact yields, making it harder for farmers to maintain production. The research focused on three key cocoa-producing countries - Brazil, Ghana, and Indonesia - which together account for 33% of the world’s cocoa supply.



The findings revealed a concerning trend. In locations where temperatures had risen by up to 7 degrees Celsius, cocoa yields dropped between 20-31%. These losses demonstrate how vulnerable cocoa-producing regions are to climate change. 



If global temperatures continue to rise, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-discovery-will-help-climate-proof-chocolate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cocoa</a> farmers may face increasing challenges in maintaining both quality and quantity of production.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-threat-to-cocoa-production">Hidden threat to cocoa production</h2>



While climate change presents a major threat, another key factor is limiting cocoa yields - pollination. Despite its importance, pollination has often been overlooked in discussions about improving cocoa productivity.



The study found that boosting pollination rates above current levels could <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthier-chocolate-created-by-using-the-entire-cocoa-fruit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increase yields</a> by 20%, revealing that many cocoa plantations are not reaching their full potential.



"Cocoa is pollinated by tiny insects such as midges and thrips, and it comes as quite a surprise that most of the time there simply isn’t enough pollination happening to produce the cocoa crop that is possible," noted Dr. Acheampong Atta-Boateng, a co-author of the study.



This lack of pollination is limiting productivity, yet the good news is that there are practical solutions available. Unlike large-scale plantation expansion, enhancing pollination does not require clearing forests or using excessive fertilizers. 



Instead, small changes in farm management can create the conditions needed for better pollination and healthier yields.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategies-for-cocoa-farming">Strategies for cocoa farming</h2>



The researchers identified several farming techniques that could both enhance pollination and help plantations adapt to climate change. 



Maintaining leaf litter and other understory biomass can support pollinator populations by providing them with shelter and breeding grounds. Preserving soil organic matter improves plantation health and reduces temperature fluctuations, which can make farms more resilient to climate extremes.



Another crucial approach is providing moderate shade. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cacao-trees-5000-year-odyssey-global-domestication/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cocoa trees</a> naturally thrive under a canopy of larger trees, which helps regulate temperature and moisture levels. When farms integrate shade trees into their design, they not only create better conditions for cocoa but also encourage the presence of pollinators.



Additionally, reducing agricultural chemical use plays a major role in supporting pollinators. Many pesticides and herbicides harm the small insects responsible for cocoa pollination. 



By limiting chemical applications and using natural pest control methods, farmers can create a healthier ecosystem where both cocoa plants and their pollinators flourish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-call-for-sustainable-cocoa-farming">Call for sustainable cocoa farming</h2>



"This research shows that sustainable agricultural methods can significantly improve cocoa yields without farm expansion or intensification," noted Dr. Tonya Lander, the study's first author.



"By adopting biodiversity-centred, climate-resilient farming techniques, the cocoa sector can both increase production and safeguard farmers' livelihoods."



The research provides a roadmap for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deadly-virus-threatens-global-chocolate-supply/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cocoa</a> farmers, industry leaders, and policymakers to rethink current farming practices. Instead of focusing solely on increasing land use, the industry must embrace biodiversity-friendly techniques that support both pollination and climate resilience.



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



"The rising demand for cocoa and the short-term economic benefits to farmers has led to plantation expansion and ecological homogenization at the expense of biodiversity and vital ecosystem services, like pollination," noted Dr. Tom Wanger of <a href="https://en.westlake.edu.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Westlake University</a>, China.



"This study highlights the long-term risks of this approach, and how pollination can be a solution that works alongside climate-resilient agricultural systems to achieve long-term, ecologically and financially sustainable solutions."



The message from researchers is clear. Sustainable cocoa farming is not just about preserving forests - it is about ensuring long-term productivity and economic stability for millions of farmers.



By implementing smarter farm management practices, cocoa growers can protect their crops from climate change while improving yields through better pollination.



The future of cocoa farming depends on science-driven solutions that prioritize both agricultural success and environmental responsibility. If the industry embraces these changes, it can continue to thrive without sacrificing the landscapes and ecosystems that make cocoa cultivation possible.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-025-02072-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a>.



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Sustainable farming could save the future of chocolate

For centuries, cocoa farming has been a lifeline for millions...

People in many countries struggle with being overweight, and the global obesity issue has worsened in recent years. There is a constant search for easy additions to daily meals that might help with weight management and heart health.



Chia seeds have captured public interest for their fiber content, fats, and versatility. They have popped up in everything from breakfast puddings to nutrition bars. 



However, according to Dr. Abbas Karimi at the <a href="https://en.tbzmed.ac.ir/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tabriz University of Medical Sciences</a>, the reality is more nuanced than dramatic weight changes from a single supplement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-chia-phenomenon">Understanding the chia phenomenon</h2>



Chia seeds are promoted for their high concentration of alpha-linolenic acid and plant-based protein. Some people say they support fullness and maintain stable energy throughout the day.



Scientists have taken a closer look at the effects of including these seeds in a balanced diet, hoping to see improvements in cardiovascular markers such as blood pressure or lipid profiles. 



While some findings suggest a modest reduction in waist circumference, measurable changes in overall <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obesity-now-affects-more-than-a-billion-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weight</a> remain unpredictable.



Chia seeds are also known for their high content of soluble and insoluble fiber which can absorb liquid and form a gel-like consistency. This fiber may <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/87559129.2013.818014" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">slow carbohydrate breakdown</a> and contribute to a more balanced blood sugar after consumption. 



Small studies have hinted at better glucose control, though large-scale trials often show less dramatic shifts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-blood-pressure-question">The blood pressure question</h2>



Research indicates that chia might help reduce systolic blood pressure by a few points. One idea is that the magnesium and potassium content supports healthy vascular function, which could relax blood vessels. 



However, not everyone sees these results, and individual factors may matter more than a simple addition of chia seeds.



There is also speculation about whether chia’s fiber can influence hormones that control blood pressure. If fiber leads to beneficial changes in gut health, the result might be indirect support for heart function. Still, any improvement might be modest and should be paired with the adoption of other healthy habits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inflammation-and-heart-markers">Inflammation and heart markers</h2>



According to experts, omega-3 fatty acids help reduce low-level inflammation. It has been speculated that chia’s alpha-linolenic acid might help bring down C-reactive protein, an indicator of chronic inflammation. 



Other inflammatory markers, like interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, have shown less consistent change.



In addition, chia seeds contain polyphenols that can act as antioxidants. These compounds might fight oxidative stress, though the effect can vary and may be more dependent on a person’s baseline diet, their genetics, and lifestyle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weight-and-glucose">Weight and glucose</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chia-seeds-have-great-potential-to-improve-human-health/">Chia seeds</a> promote a feeling of fullness because the soaked seeds swell, which may help to limit snacking between meals. However, not all trials reveal striking weight loss or major body mass index changes after chia supplementation.



An analysis of multiple randomized controlled trials on overweight groups suggests that chia might help with waist size, but blood sugar measures, like fasting glucose levels, often stay in the same range. 



A single food rarely solves metabolic problems, so experts recommend viewing chia as just one piece of a broader plan.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-incorporating-chia-seeds-in-meals">Incorporating chia seeds in meals</h2>



Some enjoy stirring chia into oatmeal, combining it with yogurt, or blending it into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-say-this-is-the-best-fruit-to-eat-for-a-healthier-liver/">fruit smoothies</a>. Two tablespoons of chia can provide a dose of fiber, healthy fats, and protein without drastically altering the taste of a dish.



Others grind chia seeds to sprinkle on salads or to replace part of the flour in certain baked goods. Whole seeds can work well in breakfast bowls, though ground seeds may release nutrients more effectively.



Moderation helps avoid bloating, especially for those who are not used to a high-fiber diet. Chia seeds absorb water, so sufficient fluid intake is important to prevent any digestive discomfort.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-latest-research-on-chia">The latest research on chia</h2>



The systematic <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39285289/">review</a> by Dr. Karimi and colleagues found that chia is not a magic solution for reducing LDL cholesterol or glucose levels. 



However, the potential to trim waist circumference and bring down certain inflammatory markers is worth noting for those with metabolic concerns.



Researchers emphasize that consistency matters. Adding seeds for a few days and expecting major changes can set people up for disappointment. 



On the other hand, including chia in a sustainable routine might show small but meaningful differences over several weeks or months.



The study is published in <a href="https://nutritionandmetabolism.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12986-024-00847-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nutrition &amp; Metabolism</a>.



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These tiny seeds pack a powerful nutrient punch

People in many countries struggle with being overweight, and the...

Forests have long been resilient, adapting to shifting climates over centuries. However, the pace of modern climate change presents an unprecedented challenge. Trees that have thrived in certain regions for generations now face rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and increasing disturbances from wildfires and pests. 



Scientists have expected tree species to migrate naturally, shifting toward cooler and wetter areas to survive. Yet, a recent study from <a href="https://www.colostate.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colorado State University</a> reveals a different reality - tree populations in the interior U.S. West are shrinking, but they are not expanding into new, more favorable territories.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-is-killing-trees">Climate change is killing trees</h2>



The study examined data from over 25,000 forest plots across the interior U.S. West. 



The researchers found that trees are struggling to regenerate in the hottest parts of their ranges, which aligns with expectations. However, the more alarming discovery is that they are not establishing themselves in cooler, wetter locations either.



Study lead author Katie Nigro emphasized the significance of this pattern, stating that trees play a crucial role in providing clean water, clean air, and essential habitat for wildlife. She noted that without intervention, some species may struggle to maintain their presence in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-trees-in-the-wrong-place-can-make-cities-hotter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">landscape</a>.



"If forest managers want to keep certain trees on the landscape, our study shows where they can still exist or where they might need help," said Nigro.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-outpaces-tree-adaptation">Climate change outpaces tree adaptation</h2>



For decades, ecologists have assumed that as warming temperatures push <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-crops-a-path-to-feeding-the-world-and-saving-the-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a> out of certain areas, they will gradually expand into more suitable habitats. However, the study challenges this assumption by demonstrating that most species are not shifting as expected.



Shrinking ranges were observed in both undisturbed forests and those affected by wildfires, insect outbreaks, and disease. Researchers tested whether disturbances such as wildfires could clear the way for trees to establish themselves in cooler regions by removing competition. 



The expectation was that, with fewer adult <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-trees-protect-their-genetic-diversity-for-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a> blocking sunlight and taking up resources, new seedlings could take root in more favorable microclimates. But the study found little evidence of such shifts occurring.



"Just like us and every species, trees can only function within a certain climatic tolerance, and different species have different climatic tolerances,” Nigro explained. “I thought we would find more shifts into cooler zones, especially in burned areas.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forests-are-shrinking-faster-than-expected">Forests are shrinking faster than expected</h2>



The study, published in Nature Climate Change, provides a large-scale analysis of how trees are responding to changing conditions. The results highlight an overarching pattern - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/resilient-trees-can-help-safeguard-cities-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a> are disappearing from the hottest, driest parts of their range, yet failing to gain ground along the cooler, wetter margins.



Nigro pointed out that some tree species, particularly slow-growing subalpine varieties, may need more time to establish themselves in new areas. 



However, she also warned that the rapid pace of climate change may be outstripping the ability of trees to adapt naturally. More localized studies will be necessary to determine which species can survive where and whether interventions will be needed.



"One of the potential issues is that we may get bigger and bigger mismatches between where trees are living and their ideal climate," Nigro said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-barriers-prevent-tree-migration">Physical barriers prevent tree migration</h2>



Even when trees attempt to shift their ranges, they face numerous obstacles. Climate change is not only altering temperatures but also increasing wildfire frequency and intensity. 



These disturbances can prevent regeneration by eliminating seed sources. Additionally, seeds trying to move upslope to cooler temperatures must overcome significant physical barriers.



“There's a lot of things that prevent a seed from moving uphill, including gravity,” said co-author Monique Rocca, an associate professor of ecosystem science and sustainability. “A lot of conditions need to be in place for a tree to be able to move to cooler, wetter sites.”



The study highlights how trees remain restricted to their current locations due to environmental and physical constraints. 



Rocca noted that understanding where trees are naturally persisting versus where they need human intervention is key to ensuring future forest sustainability.



“This study digs into some of the details of where trees are staying on the landscape on their own versus where we may need to intervene if our goal is to keep Western landscapes covered in trees,” she said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tough-trees-survive-climate-shifts">Tough trees survive climate shifts</h2>



While most tree species struggle to expand their ranges, a few have managed to regenerate successfully. 



The researchers identified four species that continued to regenerate despite climate challenges, wildfires, and disease outbreaks. However, three of these species were relatively rare, making it difficult to assess their long-term adaptability.



One species, Gambel oak, proved particularly resilient due to its ability to resprout even after disturbances. Unlike other species that rely on seed dispersal for regeneration, Gambel oak can regrow from its root system, allowing it to survive in harsh <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-than-one-third-of-the-worlds-trees-face-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environments</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-data-in-tracking-forest-change">Role of data in tracking forest change</h2>



The study used long-term data from the USDA Forest Service’s Forest Inventory and Analysis program, often referred to as the national “tree census.” This program continuously tracks tree growth and losses across the nation, providing invaluable insights into forest dynamics.



Study co-author Kristen Pelz highlighted the importance of the study’s findings.



"Dr. Nigro harnessed the power of our field-collected data to show how forests are changing across the interior West - not theoretically, but today," Pelz said.



By analyzing the leading and trailing edges of tree ranges, rather than just the overall average, the study offers a more detailed picture of how tree species are shifting. 



This information is particularly useful for land managers trying to make informed decisions about future forest conservation strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-assisted-migration-as-a-possible-solution">Assisted migration as a possible solution</h2>



Since trees are not expanding into better-suited environments on their own, the study suggests that human intervention may be necessary. 



Assisted migration involves helping tree species move to more favorable climates by planting them in areas where they are more likely to thrive.



"This research can help land managers and foresters decide whether to hang on to trees in the hottest portions of their ranges for as long as possible or to transition to a more heat- and drought-tolerant system,” Nigro said. 



She noted that in some cases, assisted migration might involve using seeds from the same species but sourced from populations already adapted to warmer conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-changing-forest-landscape">A changing forest landscape</h2>



Nigro continues her work as a postdoctoral fellow with the Rocky Mountain Research Station, where she is studying which seeds from a single species have the highest survival potential in harsher climates. 



Meanwhile, her Ph.D. adviser, co-author Miranda Redmond, is conducting related research at UC Berkeley, focusing on how tree species are adapting to climate change.



“These efforts are becoming increasingly critical due to the rapid pace and scale of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-too-many-trees-could-spoil-the-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree</a> die-offs from wildfires, drought, and other climate-driven disturbances, coupled with tree regeneration failures observed in many areas,” Redmond said.



As climate change reshapes the natural world, forests of the future may look quite different from those of today. Some tree species may disappear from certain landscapes, while others may need human intervention to persist.



"Planting likely will be required to keep trees on the landscape where they are most valued, and we may need to accept new ecosystems in areas that are inevitably going to change. Our future forests might look different and contain different trees than they do today," said Nigro.



The study makes it clear that trees alone may not be able to keep up with the rapid shifts in climate. Without intervention, some species could be lost, altering forest ecosystems in ways that could have lasting effects on wildlife, water resources, and air quality. 



The challenge now is determining the best strategies for ensuring forests remain a vital part of the Western landscape for generations to come.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-024-02235-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Climate Change</a>.



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Trees are losing the battle against climate change

Forests have long been resilient, adapting to shifting climates over...

Cannabis has long been at the center of medical and scientific debates, especially regarding its component substances - cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). 



The psychoactive component of cannabis, THC, is known for both its benefits and drawbacks, and researchers continue to seek ways to enhance its therapeutic effects while minimizing unwanted side effects.



A breakthrough from researchers at the University of Mississippi may offer new possibilities. They have discovered how CBD, a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis, interacts with the same receptors as THC.



This discovery could lead to improved pain management treatments and new ways to mitigate THC’s negative effects, such as memory loss and nausea.



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



Amar Chittiboyina, principal scientist and associate director of the <a href="https://pharm.olemiss.edu/ncnpr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Center for Natural Products Research</a>, has been exploring CBD’s properties with his team.



Their study sheds light on how CBD functions at a molecular level and how it may change the way THC interacts with the human body.



"This research will open a new avenue for anyone in the field of cannabis research," Chittiboyina said. "It actually opens up new prospects or a new horizon in modulating cannabinoid receptors and harnessing THC's beneficial effects for pain management."



CBD is just one of over 200 cannabinoids found in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trema-micrantha-brazilian-plant-found-to-contain-cannabis-cbd-compound/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a>, but it has drawn significant attention because it does not cause intoxication like THC. 



The compound’s popularity surged in the United States following the 2018 Agricultural Improvement Act, which decriminalized hemp and allowed for the broader study of CBD’s effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-cbd-and-thc-interact-in-the-body">How CBD and THC interact in the body</h2>



To understand the significance of this research, it is important to look at how cannabinoids affect the human body. 



A key component in this process is cannabinoid receptor type 1, a protein that regulates functions such as pain, mood, appetite, metabolism, and memory. Both THC and CBD bind to this receptor on cells throughout the body, but they do so in very different ways.



When THC attaches to the receptor, it acts like an off switch, shutting down pain signals but also causing unwanted side effects. These side effects include nausea, short-term memory impairment, and a higher potential for dependency.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cbd-relieves-anxiety-without-the-risks-that-come-with-thc/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CBD</a>, in contrast, works more like a dimmer switch. Instead of fully turning the receptor on or off, it adjusts its activity, allowing for a more balanced response. This means that CBD can help manage pain and other symptoms while reducing the negative consequences associated with THC.



The <a href="https://olemiss.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Mississippi</a> researchers have pinpointed the exact locations on this receptor where CBD binds. This knowledge paves the way for future research aimed at fine-tuning cannabinoid interactions to maximize therapeutic benefits while limiting the unwanted side effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-targeted-cannabis-based-treatments">Targeted cannabis-based treatments</h2>



Scientists believe this discovery could lead to synthetic versions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cbd-use-during-pregnancy-has-unexpected-consequences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CBD</a> that work even more effectively. By modifying how CBD interacts with receptors in the body, researchers may be able to develop improved treatments for pain, anxiety, and other conditions.



"Our primary objective is to harness the beneficial effects of THC while mitigating its undesirable side effects," said Pankaj Pandey, a research scientist in the center.



CBD’s ability to influence receptor activity offers new possibilities for targeted treatments. This is especially important in the medical field, where researchers are seeking safer alternatives to traditional medications that may carry risks of addiction or severe side effects.



Robert Laprairie, associate professor at the <a href="https://www.usask.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Saskatchewan</a> and co-author of the study, emphasized the broader implications of these findings.



"When people talk about cannabis, they tend to focus on or think of it just as a drug, as the plant," said Laprairie.



"But we have a treasure chest of drug possibilities here and what we're trying to do is pick out specific, very focused effects and refine those. We're trying to pull out the benefits and leave the harms behind," he stressed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cbd-s-impact-on-opioid-use">CBD’s impact on opioid use</h2>



One of the major questions arising from this research is how CBD interacts with other drugs, particularly opioids. William Neal, a postdoctoral researcher at the Ole Miss center, is conducting studies to determine whether CBD has any effect on opioid receptors in the body.



"In the event that CBD binds to an opioid receptor, you could have negative interplay with opiate drugs like morphine," Neal said. "If you're getting pain relief from opiates, and if CBD negatively interferes with the opioid receptor, it's going to frustrate people who are prescribed opiates.



"As a result, CBD will reduce efficacy of opiates and could enhance the drug abuse liabilities."



If Neal’s research confirms that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-use-impacts-working-memory-and-brain-function/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CBD</a> influences opioid function, it could have significant implications for pain management. Many patients who use opioids also take cannabis-based products, believing that the combination provides better pain relief. 



However, if CBD weakens the effects of opioids, it may lead to complications for those relying on prescription painkillers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-research-on-thc-and-cbd">More research on THC and CBD</h2>



Neal’s study is just one example of the many new research opportunities emerging from this discovery. Chittiboyina believes this work will help answer broader questions about the combined use of cannabis, opioids, and other substances for pain relief.



"That's what I mean when I say this is a new horizon for cannabinoids research," Chittiboyina said. "Often, to mitigate pain, patients combine opiates with cannabis, kratom, and other substances. Is this approach beneficial or detrimental?"



Answering these questions requires further research, but scientists are optimistic that understanding CBD’s molecular effects will lead to medical advancements.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-cbd-in-medicine">Future of CBD in medicine</h2>



Although these findings are promising, more studies are needed before researchers can draw firm conclusions. The complexity of cannabinoid interactions means that every new discovery leads to more questions.



"But if we can pinpoint how CBD interacts with multiple targets on a molecular level, we will be in a stronger scientific position to develop solutions that are relevant to public health," Chittiboyina said.



This research has the potential to change how cannabis-based treatments are used in medicine. By improving the understanding of CBD and THC’s effects, scientists may develop more precise therapies that help patients without causing unwanted side effects.



This study received support from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS), the National Science Foundation <a href="http://www.xsede.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">XSEDE</a> Bridges allocation, and the Mississippi State-sponsored National Center for Cannabis Research and Education.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acschemneuro.4c00343" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Chemical Neuroscience</a>.



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CBD reduces the unwanted side effects of THC

Cannabis has long been at the center of medical and...

Artists have explored tree-like images in art for centuries. Many people see these scenes and instantly recognize them as trees, even when the art is strangely stylized or lacks detail.



A new study suggests that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-time-and-space-interact-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ability</a> to spot trees in art may hinge on a simple quantity related to how branch thickness scales across different sizes.



The research was conducted by Jingyi Gao, currently at the University of Wisconsin, and Mitchell Newberry, an assistant professor at the University of New Mexico.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-tree-proportions-trick-your-brain">How tree proportions trick your brain</h2>



Trees appear in many cultural depictions, yet the features that trigger our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-the-human-brain-processes-visual-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brains</a> to recognize them are not always obvious. Some artwork has curvy shapes, while others show bold, blocky forms that look nothing like leaves or bark.



The new <a href="https://academic.oup.com/pnasnexus/article/4/2/pgaf003/7996468?login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> shows that one hidden pattern stands out. When smaller branches maintain a certain relationship to their parent branches, viewers see a tree right away.



By keeping the ratio between small and large branch diameters consistent, artists preserve an essential quality that suggests tree-like growth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recognizable-trees-in-art">Recognizable trees in art</h2>



A fractal is a shape that repeats itself on different scales. These patterns appear in snowflakes, clouds, and real tree branches. They can also show up in hand-carved shapes or painted lines, as long as the size pattern remains similar across large and small areas.



In this study, the researchers explored whether fractals could explain why certain artworks display recognizable trees. They focused on a "branch diameter scaling exponent," which acts like the fractal dimension for tree branches.&nbsp;



“There are some characteristics of the art that feel like they’re aesthetic or subjective, but we can use math to describe it,” said Gao, the lead author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-math-behind-tree-like-shapes">Math behind tree-like shapes </h2>



Branch diameter scaling resembles the standard Pythagorean theorem, which often shows up in middle school geometry.



By squaring the diameters of child branches and relating them to the parent branch, the researchers identified a numerical factor that separates a tree-like feel from other forms.



This number can vary from about 1.5 to 3 for real trees in nature. Artists, whether knowingly or not, often work near that range. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-art-from-different-eras">Art from different eras</h2>



The team analyzed carvings from the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque in India, a Japanese painting from the 1700s, and early 1900s Dutch abstract art. Each of these cultural pieces showed a similar balancing act in how thick the branches were compared to their bigger trunks.



Even when lines were curved like snakes or reduced to bold strokes on a gray background, observers still saw a tree if the diameter scaling stayed in that “sweet spot.”&nbsp;



“It’s at the core of a lot of different depictions of trees, even if they’re in different styles and different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brains-bend-time-to-adapt-to-lifes-rhythm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cultures</a> or centuries,” said Newberry, senior author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-discoveries">Unexpected discoveries</h2>



In some surprising cases, an art piece that looked more realistic had a slightly off scaling exponent, while a more stylized carving had a value closer to real-life trees. This hints that realism is not the only requirement for a convincing tree image.



A highly abstract example from Piet Mondrian’s series offers a glimpse at this idea. Even with just a few black lines and no obvious leaves, one painting has a scaling exponent that lands in the natural range.



When Mondrian removed that scaling in a later piece, people began interpreting the lines in all sorts of other ways.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-math-and-art-connect-in-tree-images">Math and art connect in tree images</h2>



The study stems from a background of interdisciplinary thinking. Mathematics can unite seemingly separate fields, especially when it comes to repeated patterns found in biology and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-our-brains-neurons-make-and-retrieve-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">art</a>.



This project also highlights how looking at a painting can reveal deeper truths about nature. The researchers combined artistic analysis with core geometry to capture a consistent formula.



By tapping into fractals, the experts unlocked a new way of explaining how we recognize tree shapes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blending-science-and-creativity">Blending science and creativity</h2>



The research might also spark fresh discussions about the blending of science and creativity. The study focuses on the idea that something as subjective as art appreciation might have a quantitative backbone. 



Scientists continue to investigate whether our brains latch onto these branching proportions from an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-pathway-discovered-that-suppresses-fear/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary standpoint</a>, given our familiarity with natural trees that grew around us for thousands of years.



The visual pull of art might be less mysterious than previously believed. It could boil down to numbers that we subconsciously pick up whenever we spot repeating forms. The same principle might extend to different styles of illustration or design, from digital graphics to architecture.



The study is published in <a href="https://academic.oup.com/pnasnexus/article/4/2/pgaf003/7996468?login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PNAS Nexus</a>.



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How and why our brains can instantly recognize trees, even in abstract art

Artists have explored tree-like images in art for centuries. Many...

Solar energy has fascinated scientists and engineers for decades. Many wonder how leaves harness sunlight to produce energy with remarkable efficiency.



<a href="https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/photosynthesis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Photosynthesis</a>, the process that drives energy capture in green organisms, employs subtle <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-instead-of-oil-or-coal-powers-a-new-kind-of-engine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a> to avoid waste. This link between molecular events and advanced physics once seemed far-fetched, but new research is changing minds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-quantum-effects-shape-plant-function">How quantum effects shape plant function</h2>



Research by Professor Jürgen Hauer from the Technical University of Munich and first author Erika Keil suggests that fragile molecular states hold more power than expected. Observations in chlorophyll molecules reveal that electrons move through different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/google-record-shattering-quantum-ai-chip-accesses-parallel-universes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy levels</a> in a seamless way.



This happens when light enters a leaf and triggers electronic changes inside each pigment. Instead of scattering energy, the system finds pathways that keep losses to a bare minimum.



Superposition states allow energy to overlap across multiple electronic configurations. These overlaps explain why leaves can transfer energy to reaction centers so efficiently.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-solar-panels-mimic-leaf-energy-efficiency">Can solar panels mimic leaf energy efficiency?</h2>



Developers of solar panels dream of mimicking natural energy transport in leaves. Basic strategies borrowed from plants might improve devices that struggle with reflection, heat, and other hurdles.



Nature uses pigments to harvest light across a wide range of wavelengths. Researchers aim to create synthetic analogs with better spectral coverage and minimal losses.



Some systems rely on specialized organic molecules designed to emulate chlorophyll. Others seek to combine biological components with man-made scaffolds to form hybrid solar cells.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-quantum-steps-matter">Why quantum steps matter</h2>



Classical physics alone cannot fully explain the speed and efficiency of light harvesting. Scientists suspect that quantum coherence, even if it lasts briefly, helps direct energy through an optimal route.



Coherence means electron waves remain in sync long enough to guide energy transfer. These fleeting periods can reduce random losses by funneling energy into the right channels.



Although short-lived, such coherence has been detected in photosynthetic bacteria and algae, hinting at a universal trick shared by green organisms. Observations confirm that multiple energy states interact in ways that defy classical explanations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-probing-the-spectrum">Probing the spectrum</h2>



Scientists categorize chlorophyll absorption in plant leaves into two main zones, called the Q band and B band. Each leaf uses these zones to capture different wavelengths, allowing chlorophyll to gather light from various parts of the solar spectrum.



Studies suggest that these bands do not operate independently. Instead, they communicate through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computing-giant-leap-forward-breakthrough-ultra-pure-silicon-discovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> couplings that enable a steady flow of energy inside the leaf.



Once energy arrives in the lower electronic states, cooling removes excess energy as heat. This ensures the system remains stable and prevents damage from overexcitation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-experimental-observation">Challenges in experimental observation</h2>



Capturing events that happen in a few trillionths of a second is no small task. Ultrafast spectroscopy uses laser pulses to freeze these moments and map the flow of energy.



Researchers must sift through complicated data, since chlorophyll molecules vibrate and rotate while transferring energy. Careful modeling helps interpret the signals and tease apart overlapping states.



Advanced simulations also guide the design of future experiments. These combined approaches reveal hidden pathways that allow nature to avoid large losses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leaf-physics-and-solar-technology">Leaf physics and solar technology</h2>



Lessons from plants often inspire new strategies in the lab. Scientists build prototypes to see if they can harness the same quantum features found in leaves.



One idea is to insert synthetic pigments into specialized arrays that mimic the arrangement of chlorophyll in a photosynthetic complex. Another approach is to embed such pigments in robust materials, creating stable systems for light capture.



Although no device can match leaf efficiency yet, progress in controlling molecular interactions suggests a path forward. The ultimate goal is to replicate nature’s nearly perfect energy transfer on larger scales.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-discoveries-in-leaves">Quantum discoveries in leaves</h2>



Global demand for renewable power has skyrocketed. Solar panels offer a dependable alternative to fossil fuels, but improvement is always welcome.



Understanding quantum behavior in leaf structures might boost solar capture rates, driving down costs and raising output. Increased efficiency means more energy from less sunlight, a valuable gain for any region.



Quantum-driven devices could also be tailored to specific light environments, much like plants that grow in shade or bright sun. Engineers see potential for flexible systems that adapt to changing conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-many-questions-remain">Many questions remain</h2>



Scientists still debate how long these quantum states last under normal biological settings. Some measurements hint at coherence persisting longer than expected, while others find extremely brief periods.



Many suspect the protein environment around chlorophyll keeps the states stable enough to guide energy. Pinpointing which factors extend or shorten coherence is a primary focus of research.



Clarity on these mechanisms may help build artificial complexes with more robust quantum effects. As a result, energy could move through synthetic systems with the same near-zero waste found in leaves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-striving-for-clarity-in-complex-systems">Striving for clarity in complex systems</h2>



Quantum biology is not just about single molecules. It examines how entire networks of pigments and proteins cooperate to channel energy.



The synergy between theory and experiment leads to more precise models. Each insight refines our understanding of how plants achieve such efficiency.



Researchers are also exploring how environmental factors like temperature and hydration affect energy flow. This knowledge may shape solar technology suited to varied climates.



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



Scientists want to harness <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-a-simple-way-to-grasp-this-impossible-concept-carl-kocher/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum effects</a> beyond photosynthesis. Some envision quantum computing concepts that rely on similar phenomena to process data.



These connections remind us that nature is a powerful teacher. Studies of chlorophyll continue to influence fields like photonics and materials science.



The connection between light and molecular structure could lead to technology that was once thought impossible. A deeper understanding of plant energy transfer and leaf structure may pave the way for next-generation solar solutions.



Photosynthetic research encourages people to look at leaves with newfound respect. Their ability to gather sunlight with astonishing precision may prove to be a breakthrough for a more sustainable future.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2025/sc/d4sc06441k" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chemical Science</a>.



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Tiny leaf pigments might hold the key to better solar power

Solar energy has fascinated scientists and engineers for decades. Many...

A cutting-edge artificial intelligence system promises to help protect elephants in Malaysia from illegal hunting. 



By blending predictive analytics with insights into elephant behavior, the technology aims to shield these animals from escalating threats that have long jeopardized their survival.



Developed through a collaborative effort at <a href="https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cardiff University</a>, PoachNet combines <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-learning-can-help-track-changes-in-forest-cover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deep learning</a>, GPS-based data, and ecological insights to gauge and mitigate poaching hazards.&nbsp;



The tool has been designed specifically to forecast where elephants are most likely to be found and then assess each location’s risk level, offering a proactive approach that goes beyond routine surveillance.



Scientists from the School of Computer Science and Informatics and the School of Biosciences worked together to construct a platform capable of learning from historical elephant movement patterns and detecting threats in near-real time.&nbsp;



By applying advanced machine-learning techniques, the research team can predict where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/african-elephants-have-drastically-declined-in-the-last-50-years/">elephants</a> are headed, identify hazardous zones, and assist on-the-ground teams in allocating resources effectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-better-way-to-protect-elephants-nbsp">A better way to protect elephants&nbsp;</h2>



Central to PoachNet’s operation is a knowledge graph that compiles diverse information about elephant movements and known risk factors. This structured repository is linked to a specialized machine-learning model that interprets data from elephant GPS trackers.&nbsp;



“Elephant GPS data is analyzed with a special type of AI - a sequential neural network - to predict their movements," explained study lead author Naeima Hamed, a PhD student at Cardiff.



"These predictions are added to the knowledge graph in a meaningful way - then PoachNet uses a rule-based system to apply poaching rules and detect hidden patterns in the data." 



The platform’s predictive ability sets it apart from more conventional methods of wildlife protection.&nbsp;



“We found that, when tested, PoachNet was more accurate than other leading methods, consistently performing better. By handling the complexity of time and space data and turning predictions into practical rules, PoachNet offers a big improvement in tracking and protecting elephants,” said Hamed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-poaching-before-it-happens">Predicting poaching before it happens</h2>



Before PoachNet, strategies to curb poaching often relied on single approaches - such as analyzing ranger patrol logs or examining evidence captured by camera traps.&nbsp;



However, these methods do not always account for the dynamic ways elephants move or the full spectrum of human impacts on their habitats. 



PoachNet integrates broader knowledge of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-lockdowns-had-unexpected-impacts-on-wildlife-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife behavior</a>, enabling the system to recognize emergent patterns that may indicate an imminent poaching threat.



The project’s designers hope that by identifying where elephants are most at risk, authorities in Sabah can mobilize anti-poaching patrols and camera traps in the most vulnerable areas.&nbsp;



This targeted response could lead to more efficient use of conservation resources, focusing on regions where illegal activity is statistically more likely to occur.



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



Study co-author Omer Rana from Cardiff’s School of Computer Science and Informatics highlighted the system’s potential to extend beyond elephant conservation in Malaysia.&nbsp;



“PoachNet is a unique software tool that integrates semantically modeled regional data sources with emerging machine learning algorithms and semantic reasoning. PoachNet addresses a challenge that continues to affect communities supporting endangered species,” said Rana.



“Both climate change and economics are leading to significant impact across this interface between human activity and natural habitats. The data-driven approach adopted in PoachNet can also be generalized to support other similar localities and national parks - enabling more efficient use of law enforcement and government resources.”



While PoachNet is currently attuned to Bornean elephants, the underlying architecture could be adapted to protect various endangered species worldwide, as each instance might require only modest adjustments in the knowledge graph and relevant predictive models.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-need-to-protect-elephants">Urgent need to protect elephants</h2>



Efforts to shield Bornean elephants from poaching have never been more critical. As habitat areas shrink and the illegal ivory trade persists, these animals face a grim reality.&nbsp;



According to co-author Benoit Goossens, a scientist at Cardiff University’s School of Biosciences and director of the <a href="https://www.danaugirang.com.my/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Danau Girang Field Center</a>, “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/koalas-face-critical-threats-from-disease-and-habitat-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat loss</a>, human-elephant conflict, and poaching threaten Bornean elephants.&nbsp;



“Despite global anti-poaching efforts, the illegal ivory trade continues to drive poaching, reducing the population to fewer than 1500. We hope that PoachNet can assist in poaching prevention methods, therefore helping to ensure the safety of the elephant population in Sabah for the future.”



Given that traditional mechanisms to combat poaching must constantly evolve, there is an urgent need for innovative solutions like PoachNet that incorporate modern technologies and up-to-date ecological knowledge.&nbsp;



By matching predictive models with ground-level patrolling and international regulatory measures, the system could help reverse some of the most destructive trends endangering these elephants.



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



In the long term, the research team plans to enhance PoachNet by introducing additional data sources. 



This could involve tapping into acoustic sensors that detect gunshots or vehicle noises, as well as using satellite imagery to keep track of land-use changes and growing human activities. 



Such expansions would feed the system with even more contextual information, improving its predictive power and enabling faster, more decisive responses.



The ultimate objective is to give conservation authorities an advanced tool capable of anticipating illegal activities, thereby reducing the risk to Bornean elephants and potentially other species in peril.&nbsp;



By blending scientific rigor, state-of-the-art AI, and on-the-ground intelligence, PoachNet represents a considerable step forward in wildlife protection strategies.



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



As poaching incidents continue to imperil elephant populations, the hope is that this novel system will allow for data-driven vigilance, pinpointing threats before they escalate into irreversible harm.&nbsp;



With more accurate forecasts and the flexibility to adapt to new conditions, PoachNet may well serve as a blueprint for conservation efforts aimed at preserving some of Earth’s most iconic and vulnerable animals.



Details of this system appear in the research paper, “PoachNet: Predicting Poaching Using an Ontology-Based Knowledge Graph,” published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/24/24/8142" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sensors</a>.&nbsp;



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New era in wildlife conservation: How AI will help protect elephants

A cutting-edge artificial intelligence system promises to help protect elephants...

Plastic pollution has long been a concern in oceans, rivers, and soil, but a new study reveals its presence in an unexpected place - the lungs of birds.



Tiny plastic particles drifting through the air are making their way into the respiratory systems of birds, raising concerns about how deeply plastic contamination has infiltrated ecosystems.



The study, conducted by researchers at the <a href="https://www.uta.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Texas</a> at Arlington, highlights how widespread <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-plastics-linked-to-disability-risks-for-coastal-residents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> have become in the environment. 



Scientists have been increasingly worried about the impact of these pollutants, not just on wildlife but also on human health.



The air people breathe and the food they consume may contain more plastic than previously thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds-as-living-environmental-sensors">Birds as living environmental sensors</h2>



Shane DuBay, an assistant professor of biology at UTA and co-author of the study, explained why birds were chosen for the research. 



"Birds serve as important indicators of environmental conditions," said Professor DuBay. "They help us understand the state of the environment and make informed decisions about conservation and pollution control."



Birds live everywhere, from busy cities to quiet forests, so they are useful for studying pollution. Since they travel long distances, scientists can see how pollution spreads across different areas.



Birds share many spaces with humans, which means that their exposure to airborne <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-treaty-is-a-historic-opportunity-to-stop-a-human-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> may indicate similar risks for people.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-contamination-in-bird-lungs">Plastic contamination in bird lungs</h2>



To understand the extent of plastic contamination in bird lungs, the researchers examined 56 wild birds from 51 different species.



All specimens came from the Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in western China. The location provided a controlled setting where birds from various backgrounds interacted with human-made environments.



Scientists extracted lung samples and performed chemical tests to detect microplastics and even smaller nanoplastics. One method, laser direct infrared technology, helped count microplastic particles lodged in the lung tissue. 



Another method, pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, identified nanoplastics that could enter the bloodstream through inhalation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shocking-levels-of-plastic-detected">Shocking levels of plastic detected</h2>



The results of the study were alarming. Scientists found large amounts of tiny <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-pollution-is-changing-the-entire-earth-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic particles</a>, known as microplastics, inside the lungs of birds.



On average, each bird species had about 221 plastic particles in their lungs. When measured by weight, the researchers found 416 plastic particles per gram of lung tissue. The most common types of plastic were chlorinated polyethylene, used for coating wires and pipes, and butadiene rubber, which is found in car tires.



This means plastic is not just polluting water and soil - it is also floating in the air. If birds are breathing in these tiny plastic pieces, it raises concerns about what might be happening to humans.



People live in the same environments as birds, especially in cities. If birds are inhaling plastic, humans likely are too - without even knowing it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risks-of-airborne-plastic-in-birds">Risks of airborne plastic in birds</h2>



There is no set rule for how much <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-interlinked-crisis-of-plastic-pollution-and-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic</a> in the lungs is considered safe. However, past research has shown that breathing in tiny plastic particles may cause serious health problems.



Scientists think inhaling plastic could lead to lung diseases, heart problems, and even cancer. Persistent exposure to plastic might also affect fertility and weaken the immune system.



Once plastic gets inside the body, it can build up in tissues, possibly causing long-term damage or inflammation. Some plastics also contain harmful chemicals that could interfere with how the body works.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-plastic-crisis">Growing plastic crisis</h2>



Professor DuBay emphasized the urgent need to combat plastic pollution before it causes irreversible damage.



"Our research highlights an urgent need to address plastic pollution in our environments, as these contaminants can have far-reaching impacts on ecosystem health, as well as human health," he said.



The study makes one thing clear - plastic waste isn’t just piling up in landfills or floating in the ocean. It’s in the air, drifting unseen, finding its way into the lungs of both birds and humans. Cutting back on plastic pollution is no longer just an environmental goal - it’s an urgent necessity.



Scientists need more research, more funding, more answers. How much plastic is truly in the air? What long-term damage does it cause? Until these questions are answered, the best step forward is simple: stop the spread before it gets worse.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0304389425001864?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Hazardous Materials</a>.



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Birds are breathing in plastic - what does that mean for us?

Plastic pollution has long been a concern in oceans, rivers,...

Coral reefs - vivid, bustling cities beneath the sea - are in trouble. Warming oceans, pollution, and human interference have put them on the brink. But a quieter, less obvious threat is making things worse. The loss of sharks, the ocean’s apex predators, may be triggering outbreaks of coral-eating crown-of-thorns starfish.



These outbreaks, in turn, accelerate the destruction of already struggling reef systems.



Scientists from The University of Western Australia's Oceans Institute and the Australian Institute of Marine Science (<a href="https://www.aims.gov.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AIMS</a>) took a deep dive into this mystery. They found a surprising link between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sharks-may-benefit-from-rising-temperatures-but-not-from-rising-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shark</a> fishing, shifting fish behavior, and surging starfish populations. 



The study sheds new light on the fragile balance of reef ecosystems - and the consequences of disrupting it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rise-of-a-coral-killer">Rise of a coral killer</h2>



Crown-of-thorns starfish aren’t new to coral reefs. In small numbers, they help maintain balance, preventing a single coral species from taking over. 



But when their numbers explode, these starfish become a menace, devouring coral at an alarming rate and leaving behind skeletal, lifeless reefs.



"Coral reefs around the world are in crisis and outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish are seen as one of the key contributors," Dr. Meekan said. "Recurrent outbreaks are adding to the decline of live coral cover across the Indo-Pacific."



For decades, researchers have searched for reasons behind these population booms. Climate change, nutrient pollution, and natural cycles were suspected culprits. Now, there's another piece to the puzzle - one that begins with sharks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sharks-keep-the-food-chain-in-check">Sharks keep the food chain in check</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/whale-shark-mating-behaviors-observed-for-the-first-time-in-the-wild/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sharks</a> rule the reef, keeping everything beneath them in line. Their presence forces smaller predatory fish like snappers and emperors to stick close to the seabed, where they hunt crabs, worms, and, crucially, young crown-of-thorns starfish. 



When sharks disappear, those smaller fish move up into the open water, chasing different prey.



"Through recent DNA studies, we knew lots of smaller predatory fish sometimes consumed crown-of-thorns starfish, but we didn't know how frequently this happened and if it could control outbreaks," Dr. Meekan said. 



"Our insights show the presence of sharks might determine when this control occurs."



Take sharks out of the equation, and the entire system shifts. The once-grounded hunters now roam freely, snatching squid and smaller fish instead. The invertebrates they used to eat are left unchecked.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-shifts-lead-to-starfish-explosions">Diet shifts lead to starfish explosions</h2>



The change happens quickly. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/whale-sharks-use-offshore-oil-rigs-as-food-stops-during-migration-harming-conservation-efforts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sharks</a> vanish, and smaller predators find themselves free to venture beyond the reef floor. 



Their diet changes and they grow faster. Meanwhile, crown-of-thorns starfish, no longer a staple in their meals, thrive. More larvae survive. More starfish mature. Soon, they blanket the reef, stripping it of coral.



"When sharks are present, smaller species are forced to feed close to the safety of coral on the seabed and, as a result, their diet is focused on things like crabs, worms and starfish," said Dr. Lester.



"But when sharks are removed by fishing, they are able to safely venture up into the water column and mostly feed on pelagic prey, like small fish and squid. Fish that change their diet in this way grow faster - but the invertebrates they used to feed on have a chance to multiply rapidly."



It's a chain reaction - one change leads to another. A shift in diet creates a gap in predation, and before long, an outbreak emerges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-shark-fishing-weaker-reef-ecosystems">More shark fishing, weaker reef ecosystems</h2>



Dr. Diego Barneche from AIMS pointed out a telling pattern: areas where fishing pressure is low, like marine reserves, tend to have fewer outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish. 



Where fishing is rampant, starfish numbers surge. The connection is clear - overfishing, particularly of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reef-sharks-are-abandoning-their-homes-due-to-ocean-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a>, makes reefs more vulnerable.



This isn’t just about one species of starfish. The removal of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unprovoked-shark-attacks-dropped-to-record-low-in-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> disrupts the entire ecosystem, leading to cascading effects that are difficult to reverse. Coral reefs, already fighting climate change and pollution, now have to battle an overpopulation of coral predators as well.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-sharks-to-save-reefs">Protecting sharks to save reefs</h2>



"We need to rapidly improve the resilience of coral reefs at a time when long-term threats, such as climate change and nutrient inflows from catchments, are causing damage that may become irreversible," said Dr. Meekan.



One practical step? Reduce shark fishing. By keeping their populations stable, reefs may have a better chance of regulating starfish numbers naturally.



"Reducing fishing so there are fewer starfish outbreaks may be a relatively cost-effective way to do this," noted Dr. Meekan.



Coral reefs are among the most threatened ecosystems on Earth. Climate change may be the biggest villain in their story, but human-driven disruptions - like the removal of sharks - are making things worse. The ocean works in delicate, intricate ways.



When one piece is removed, the effects ripple outward. In this case, fewer sharks mean more starfish. More starfish mean fewer corals. And fewer corals mean the loss of entire marine communities.



The solution might be as simple as letting sharks do their job.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-025-07716-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Biology</a>.&nbsp;



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Shark fishing is making coral reefs collapse in an unexpected way

Coral reefs - vivid, bustling cities beneath the sea -...

Nature has always been a source of life, inspiration, and wonder. From the towering elephants of Africa to the tiniest insects in the rainforests, wildlife plays a vital role in maintaining the planet's balance. Yet, human activities have pushed many species toward extinction. 



World Wildlife Day, celebrated annually on March 3, serves as a poignant reminder of our responsibility to protect nature.



This global event not only highlights the beauty of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-change-their-daily-schedules-when-tourists-are-watching/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a> but also raises awareness about the threats it faces. More importantly, it calls for urgent action to save endangered species and preserve ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-origins-of-world-wildlife-day">Origins of World Wildlife Day</h2>



Established by the United Nations in 2013, World Wildlife Day commemorates the signing of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (<a href="https://cites.org/eng" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CITES</a>) in 1973. 



CITES is a global agreement that regulates the trade of wild animals and plants to ensure their survival.



The day serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent threats facing wildlife. Poaching, deforestation, and pollution have already led to the extinction of many species. 



Some, like the dodo bird and the Tasmanian tiger, are lost forever. Others, such as rhinos and sea turtles, remain critically endangered.



By dedicating a day to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-conservation-day-2024-saving-species-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife conservation</a>, the world acknowledges that nature's survival is directly linked to human well-being. Healthy ecosystems provide food, medicine, clean water, and air. 



Protecting wildlife is not just about saving animals - it is about preserving life itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-theme-for-world-wildlife-day-2025">Theme for World Wildlife Day 2025</h2>



Each year, World Wildlife Day adopts a specific theme to address pressing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-wildlife-threats-can-be-identified-using-ai-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation challeng</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-wildlife-threats-can-be-identified-using-ai-technology/">es</a>. In 2025, the theme is "Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet." 



This theme emphasizes the critical need for innovative financial solutions to protect our planet's biodiversity.



Financing wildlife conservation has become increasingly important as traditional funding sources prove insufficient. Innovative approaches, such as payments for ecosystem services and wildlife credits, generate revenue for landowners and communities managing wildlife resources. 



These financial mechanisms not only support conservation efforts but also promote sustainable livelihoods for local communities.



By focusing on conservation finance, the 2025 theme highlights the importance of investing in both people and the planet. It calls for stronger partnerships between governments, businesses, organizations, and local communities to create sustainable funding models for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-can-prevent-future-pandemics-by-protecting-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a> protection. 



​World Wildlife Day emphasizes that conservation efforts should be effective and equitable, benefiting both nature and humanity.&nbsp;​



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-and-ecological-balance">Wildlife and ecological balance</h2>



Wildlife is essential to the survival of the planet. Each <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-report-disturbing-details-about-the-state-of-earths-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> contributes to a delicate balance that keeps ecosystems healthy. Predators control prey populations, ensuring that no single species dominates. 



Herbivores help shape landscapes by consuming plants and dispersing seeds. Pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, ensure that crops and flowers reproduce.



The loss of even a single species can have disastrous consequences. For instance, when wolves were removed from Yellowstone National Park, deer populations exploded, leading to overgrazing and habitat destruction. 



Similarly, the decline of sea otters due to hunting resulted in an increase in sea urchin numbers, damaging kelp forests. These examples illustrate the interconnectedness of all life.



Wildlife also benefits human societies in ways many people may not realize. Numerous plants and animals provide ingredients for medicines. 



Scientists have studied frogs to develop painkillers, sharks to improve human immune systems, and plants to treat cancer. Without biodiversity, medical discoveries would be limited.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-success-stories">Conservation success stories</h2>



World Wildlife Day highlights that, despite challenges, dedicated conservation programs have enabled species like the California condor and Louisiana black bear to rebound from the brink of extinction.



The giant panda, once considered endangered, has rebounded due to habitat restoration in China. Conservationists have worked tirelessly to protect bamboo forests and establish breeding programs. Today, panda populations are growing, proving that conservation efforts can work.



Similarly, India's Project Tiger has helped <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indias-wild-tigers-are-thriving-with-smart-conservation-efforts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increase tiger populations</a> after decades of decline. Strict anti-poaching laws and the creation of protected reserves have provided these big cats with a safe habitat. The country's tiger population has nearly doubled in recent years, a significant victory for wildlife conservation.



Marine conservation has also made progress. Humpback whales, once heavily hunted, have increased in numbers due to international bans on whaling. Similarly, sea turtle nesting sites have been protected, allowing their populations to stabilize.



These stories demonstrate that with commitment, funding, and global cooperation, species can be saved. They offer a glimmer of hope for other endangered animals still fighting for survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impact-on-wildlife">Human impact on wildlife</h2>



Human activities remain the most significant threat to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-tracking-is-crucial-for-preserving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a>. Forests are cleared for agriculture, destroying habitats and displacing animals. Plastic waste in oceans kills marine life. Poaching continues to threaten species like rhinos, elephants, and pangolins.



Climate change adds another layer of danger. Rising temperatures disrupt migration patterns and alter ecosystems. Coral reefs, home to 25% of marine species, are dying due to ocean warming. Arctic ice is melting, making it harder for polar bears to find food.



​If these threats are not addressed, the world could lose thousands of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-wildlife-overlap-is-rapidly-rising-across-the-globe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> in the coming decades. World Wildlife Day emphasizes that extinction is not just a loss of animals - it signifies a profound disruption of natural balance. ​



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-individuals-can-help-protect-wildlife">How individuals can help protect wildlife</h2>



Everyone can play a role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-media-is-helping-save-wild-animals-like-caracals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protecting wildlife</a>. Supporting conservation organizations through donations or volunteer work helps fund crucial projects. Many groups work on the front lines, rescuing animals, restoring habitats, and educating communities.



Simple lifestyle changes also make a difference. Reducing plastic use prevents waste from harming marine life. Avoiding products linked to deforestation, such as palm oil, helps protect forests. Choosing sustainably sourced seafood supports ocean health.



​Education is another powerful tool.&nbsp;World Wildlife Day initiatives, such as school programs and community events, play a crucial role in raising awareness about endangered species and their importance, encouraging people to take action.&nbsp;​



Sharing knowledge through social media, attending wildlife events, or participating in conservation projects helps spread the message.



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World Wildlife Day 2025: A global call to protect nature

Nature has always been a source of life, inspiration, and...

Some animals are known to cooperate with others of their own kind in a form of helping behavior. But every now and then, individuals from totally different species also form partnerships in order to improve their chances of survival.



This unexpected behavior requires that individuals understand the purpose of working together, and can see the advantages, despite having no means to communicate across the interspecies barrier. 



Researchers have documented many examples of cooperation between species, including <a href="https://planetforward.org/story/cleaner-wrasses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cleaner wrasse</a> that remove parasites from bigger fish, and ants that protect aphids in exchange for honeydew. 



Experts have also observed <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3119009/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drongo</a> birds warning groups of <a href="https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/meerkat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meerkats</a> when danger approaches, and honeyguide birds in Africa that direct honey badgers to bee hives where food can be found.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-animals-form-partnerships">Why animals form partnerships</h2>



In a recent study, researchers set out to investigate how these alliances might expand our idea of <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(25)00012-0?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS0960982225000120%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognition</a>.&nbsp;They also wanted to identify the mental skills that help animals communicate across species lines.



The study was led by biologist Eduardo Sampaio from the <a href="https://www.exc.uni-konstanz.de/collective-behaviour/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cluster of Excellence, Collective Behaviour</a> at the University of Konstanz in Germany.



Unexpected partnerships often hinge on each participant’s specific advantage. One partner might detect predators faster, while the other can defend against attackers.



Scientists have noticed that such teamwork can evolve when both sides see a payoff that outweighs any potential costs. It is not mere convenience; it can mean the difference between going hungry or finding plenty to eat.



Large predators sometimes ignore smaller animals they would normally chase away, if those smaller creatures bring a clear benefit. This delicate truce can break if one side starts taking advantage of the other too often, showing that trust must be maintained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-octopuses-cooperate-with-reef-fish">Octopuses cooperate with reef fish</h2>



In a paper published in the journal Current Biology, Sampaio and his colleagues described how octopuses cooperate with reef fish in order to hunt. Each species uses distinct signals, but they appear to understand these cues well enough to coordinate an attack and share the rewards.



“Partnerships like these challenge traditional views of intelligence and cooperation in the animal kingdom,” said Sampaio. His observations suggest that these animals grasp the benefits of working in sync, even though they usually operate alone.



Octopuses are typically solo hunters, but when a fish locates and points out hidden prey, the octopus helps flush it out. Any fish that tries to steal more than its fair share risks being swatted away.



Such behavior indicates that coordination between different species may rival the complexity of interactions seen among members of the same group. Researchers are eager to see what this reveals about flexibility in learning and decision-making.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cooperation-in-the-animal-kingdom">Cooperation in the animal kingdom </h2>



For octopuses to cooperate with different species, they must learn to interpret signals that do not match their usual social cues. This might stretch their problem-solving abilities, and push them to develop sharper instincts for sharing information.



“From an evolutionary perspective, social complexity, problem solving and communication do not only arise within one's own group, but can also be shaped by the need to collaborate across species boundaries,” explained Sampaio. 



This implies that alliances can occur between individuals from species that have very different brains and lifestyles. By investigating such alliances, scientists gain understanding about how animals adapt their behavior to succeed together, despite the apparent communication barriers.



The findings may change how experts define cooperation in the animal kingdom. Rather than ascribing social complexity to flocks or packs, it may be present whenever individuals from a species treat outsiders as potential allies.



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



The quest to learn more about cross-species teamwork is just beginning. Future studies may focus on whether these interactions develop slowly, through repeated encounters, or whether they depend on innate predispositions to cooperate.



Research teams are also looking at <a href="https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/msystems.00884-24" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interspecies synergy</a> to inspire innovations in robotics and artificial intelligence. By examining how animals navigate tricky partnerships, engineers might design machines that coordinate smoothly even if they do not share the same construction.



Practical applications could pop up in fields like environmental conservation, where understanding these relationships might help preserve critical habitats. Conservationists may tailor strategies around natural alliances to keep ecosystems balanced.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-partnerships-and-survival">Animal partnerships and survival</h2>



Scientists believe these surprising connections reveal the adaptability of complex nervous systems under challenging conditions. The discovery about octopuses broadens our awareness of how animals cooperate.



<a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/mutualism-examples-of-species-that-work-together.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cross-species partnerships</a> add another layer to our appreciation of how animals survive, evolve, and thrive. They remind us that cooperation can stretch far beyond familiar boundaries whenever mutual gains are on the table.



Plenty of questions remain about how animals initially learn to work together in unpredictable settings. Ongoing research will shine more light on how living creatures solve problems, share resources, and strike deals for mutual benefit.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(25)00012-0?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS0960982225000120%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Unlikely allies: Octopuses cooperate with fish to catch prey

Some animals are known to cooperate with others of their...

Several weathered cliffs in central Utah have revealed something astonishing. Recent work on Cretaceous sedimentary layers hints at a surprisingly large set of dinosaur eggs belonging to predators and plant-eaters alike.



One cache in particular stands out for including fragments from three feathered, bird-like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-did-dinosaurs-come-from-missing-fossils-hold-the-secret/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaurs</a>; two herbivorous types; and a crocodile-like creature that has never been seen outside of Europe.



Dr. Ryan T. Tucker from the <a href="https://www.ufs.ac.za/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of the Free State</a> in South Africa helped analyze these fragile fossils to understand which dinosaurs laid them and how they fit into the bigger story.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diverse-dinosaur-eggs-found-in-utah">Diverse dinosaur eggs found in Utah</h2>



The <a href="https://www.nps.gov/zion/learn/nature/cedarmtn.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cedar Mountain Formation</a> has been a focus of field expeditions for decades. Paleontologists have long suspected that its Cenomanian deposits held key information about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/collagen-discovered-in-70-million-year-old-dinosaur-fossil/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur</a> life during a time of environmental transition.



This new <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0314689" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">find</a> sheds light on six separate types of eggshell, scientifically known as <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0171919" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ootaxa</a>. Each ootaxon has a distinct microstructure, which helps confirm that multiple species laid eggs in the same broad region.



Three sets belonged to oviraptorosaur dinosaurs. Their skeletons often exhibit feathers and beaks that differ sharply from other predatory reptiles.



Another two eggshell types came from ornithopod dinosaurs with beak-like mouths for grazing. No one expected to find so many varieties in one sedimentary window.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rare-croc-like-presence">Rare croc-like presence</h2>



The sixth type of eggshell belongs to <a href="https://paleobiodb.org/classic/checkTaxonInfo?taxon_no=451525&amp;is_real_user=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mycomorphoolithus kohringi</a>. Until now, evidence of this crocodile-like species had only been found in Europe.



The creature has a structure that matches what paleontologists call <a href="https://a-z-animals.com/animals/crocodylomorph/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crocodylomorph</a> traits, bridging an important gap in how we see ancient reptiles roaming ancient waterways.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eggs-that-reshape-dinosaur-history">Eggs that reshape dinosaur history</h2>



Paleontologists consider the Cedar Mountain Formation vital because it captures a shift from older dinosaur faunas to younger Cretaceous populations. This stage set the scene for many later groups that rose to prominence.



Compared to skeletons, eggs are often overlooked, yet they can reveal important details about nesting, breeding patterns, and species <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/north-americas-oldest-dinosaur-is-completely-rewriting-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diversity</a>.



Each shell fragment reflects a reproductive event that once played out on floodplains and near water sources. Scientists gain glimpses into dinosaur family life when they discover these clusters in the same layers.



The unexpected variety of shells in one place helps refine how we envision prehistoric neighborhoods. It moves beyond a single, monolithic group of dinosaurs and offers a more vivid snapshot of the region's diversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coexistence-of-multiple-dinosaur-species">Coexistence of multiple dinosaur species </h2>



The discovery of multiple <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossils-discovered-in-australia-rewrite-dinosaur-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur species</a> nesting in the same area raises questions about how they coexisted. Did these different species interact, or were they simply using the same environment at different times? 



<a href="https://tmdinosaurcenter.org/what-is-a-paleontologist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paleontologists</a> suspect that some dinosaurs may have shared nesting grounds seasonally, while others might have avoided competition by laying eggs in slightly different conditions.



The presence of both predators and plant-eaters in close proximity also suggests a rich ecosystem with enough resources to support a variety of creatures. 



Fossilized plant remains, soil analysis, and nearby skeletal finds could help researchers understand what this environment looked like 94 million years ago and how different species adapted to it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-eggs-reveal-about-dinosaur-evolution">What eggs reveal about dinosaur evolution</h2>



Eggshells provide more than just evidence of ancient reproduction. Their microscopic structure holds clues about nesting strategies, eggshell thickness, and even incubation methods. 



Some species laid rigid, thick-shelled eggs, while others had thinner, more fragile eggs that required specific environmental conditions to survive.



Studying eggshells over time also helps scientists trace evolutionary changes. The oviraptorosaur eggs in this discovery add to the growing evidence that some dinosaurs were developing traits similar to modern birds. 



These findings connect distant relatives in the dinosaur family tree and show how behaviors like <a href="https://thomas-hopp.com/pdf/Hopp04-DinoBrooding.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brooding</a> and nest-building may have developed long before birds took flight.



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



With so many distinct eggshells uncovered, teams may now search for specific nest sites that confirm hatching behaviors. Such places might even reveal whether certain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-predatory-dinosaur-species-identified-in-lost-photos/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaurs</a> guarded eggs or left them to the sun-warmed environment.



Findings like these draw new attention to Utah’s rock formations, encouraging ongoing excavation and analysis. More fragments or entire eggs could reveal hidden details of dinosaur biology.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0314689" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



Image Credit: Lindsay Zanno, CC-BY 4.0



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Dinosaur eggs found in Utah belong to multiple species

Several weathered cliffs in central Utah have revealed something astonishing....

The narwhal (Monodon monoceros), a whale native to the Arctic, is famous for its long, spiral tusk. This tusk, actually an extended tooth, can grow up to 10 feet and is most common in males. Throughout history, it has inspired legends of unicorns and fascinated scientists. 



Researchers believe the tusk plays a role in mate selection, but its full purpose remains uncertain. The elusive nature of narwhals makes studying their tusk behavior challenging, as few have witnessed their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saber-toothed-predators-evolved-the-perfect-fangs-for-hunting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">activities in the wild</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-narwhals-use-their-tusks">How narwhals use their tusks</h2>



Until recently, much about narwhal behavior remained a mystery. Their social interactions, reproductive habits, and adaptability to environmental changes were largely unknown. 



However, a recent study by <a href="https://www.fau.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Atlantic University</a>’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute and Canada’s Department of Fisheries and Oceans has provided new insights. The research was conducted in collaboration with Inuit communities in Nunavut.



Using drones, the team captured 17 distinct <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unexpected-discovery-large-sharks-are-hunting-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behaviors</a>, revealing how narwhals interact with their environment.



For the first time, scientists observed narwhals using their tusks to influence the behavior of Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus). 



The footage showed narwhals delivering precise strikes with their tusks, stunning and possibly killing fish. These findings offer a rare glimpse into their foraging strategies and interactions with prey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-playful-and-social-narwhals">Playful and social narwhals</h2>



The study also documented evidence of play among narwhals. Researchers observed what appeared to be exploratory-object play, suggesting these whales engage in activities beyond survival needs.



Some behaviors indicated social learning, where narwhals may teach or influence one another. Individual personality differences among narwhals also became apparent, further demonstrating their complexity.



The study also captured the first recorded interactions between narwhals, fish, and birds. In one case, glaucous gulls (Larus hyperboreus) attempted to steal food from narwhals, showcasing a rare instance of kleptoparasitism.



These interactions reveal the intricate relationships between species in the Arctic ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-closer-look-at-narwhal-tusking">Closer look at narwhal tusking</h2>



Study senior author Dr. Greg O’Corry-Crowe is a research professor at FAU Harbor Branch and a National Geographic Explorer.



"Narwhals are known for their ‘tusking’ behavior, where two or more of them simultaneously raise their tusks almost vertically out of the water, crossing them in what may be a ritualistic behavior to assess a potential opponent’s qualities or to display those qualities to potential mates,” said Dr. O'Corry-Crowe.



“But now we know that narwhal tusks have other uses, some quite unexpected, including foraging, exploration and play.”



The study revealed that narwhals exhibit remarkable dexterity with their tusks. They can track moving prey with precision, adjusting their strikes to manipulate the fish. 



The tip of the tusk appeared particularly effective in stimulating responses from fish, allowing narwhals to interact directly with their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cooperative-hunting-does-not-require-complex-thinking-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prey</a>.



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



“I have been studying narwhal for over a decade and have always marveled at their tusks,” said study co-author Dr. Cortney Watt, a research scientist at Fisheries and Oceans Canada.



“To observe them using their tusks for foraging and play is remarkable. This unique study where we set up a remote field camp and spent time filming narwhal with drones is yielding many interesting insights and is providing a bird’s eye view of their behavior that we have never seen before.”



These discoveries highlight how climate change may influence narwhal behavior. As Arctic conditions shift, new interspecies encounters may become more common, forcing animals to adapt.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-learning-and-adaptation">Social learning and adaptation</h2>



“Our observations provide clear evidence of narwhals chasing fish and using their tusks to interact directly with the fish and to influence the fish’s behavior,” said Dr. O’Corry-Crowe.



“Some of the interactions we saw appeared competitive in nature with one whale blocking or trying to block another whale’s access to the same target fish, while others may have been more subtle, possibly communicative and even affiliative. None appeared overtly aggressive.”



Narwhals appear to learn from one another, suggesting that social behaviors could accelerate adaptation to environmental changes. This adaptability will be crucial as Arctic ice patterns shift and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hunting-coyotes-actually-boosts-their-numbers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prey availability</a> fluctuates.



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



“To understand how narwhals are being affected by and adapting to the changing Arctic, field studies using innovative, non-invasive tools like drones are essential to observe them in their natural environment without disturbing them,” said Dr. O’Corry-Crowe.



“Drones provide a unique, real-time view of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/does-hunting-fishing-connect-humans-with-nature-or-reinforce-superiority-complex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behavior</a>, helping scientists gather crucial data on how narwhals are responding to shifts in ice patterns, prey availability and other environmental changes. Such studies are key to understanding the impact of global warming on these elusive animals.”



This research was supported by <a href="https://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/index-eng.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fisheries and Oceans Canada</a>, FAU Harbor Branch, the National Geographic Society, the World Wildlife Fund Canada, the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board, and Natural Resources Canada’s Polar Continental Shelf Program.



The findings offer a new perspective on narwhals, showcasing their intelligence, adaptability, and intricate tusk-related social structures. As climate change reshapes the Arctic, ongoing research will be vital in understanding and protecting these remarkable whales.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.2025.1518605/abstract" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Marine Science</a>.



Image Credit: O'Corry-Crowe, FAU/Watt, DFO



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Narwhals use their tusks in completely unexpected ways

The narwhal (Monodon monoceros), a whale native to the Arctic,...

A recent surge of newly identified animal species has sparked excitement among biologists. Strange fish species have emerged in remote Peruvian waters, and unusual relatives of the pacu have surprised experts in the Amazon and beyond.



Dr. Trond Larsen from <a href="https://www.conservation.org/stories/new-discoveries-in-a-changing-landscape-uncovering-alto-mayos-hidden-biodiversity" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Conservation International</a>'s International’s Rapid Assessment Program led field surveys in Alto Mayo, Peru, that unearthed more than two dozen new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-fish-species-are-the-big-catch-of-the-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> - including several fish with curious shapes and habits.



Also contributing to this surge in discoveries is Dr. Marcelo C. Andrade of the Federal University of Maranhão. His investigation of the black-barred pacus revealed multiple cryptic species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-the-blob-headed-catfish">Mystery of the blob-headed catfish</h2>



One of the most surprising finds was a so-called <a href="https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/4809/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blob-headed catfish</a>. It has an enlarged head that puzzled the fish experts on site.



This fish, collected in the Alto Mayo region of Peru, belongs to the armored catfish genus Chaetostoma. It lives among fast-flowing streams, and is in need of critical conservation efforts in order to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-pushing-freshwater-fish-toward-the-poles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survive</a>.



Researchers estimate that these catfish rely on specialized feeding mechanisms, although nobody fully grasps the function of that enlarged head. In some spots, local communities had already spotted these fish species long before scientists recognized them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-south-africa-s-pygmy-pipehorse">South Africa's pygmy pipehorse</h2>



On another front, marine biologists Dr. Louw Claassens and Dr. Richard Smith found a miniature pipehorse in Sodwana Bay, on South Africa’s east coast. This <a href="https://australian.museum/blog/amri-news/sodwana-pygmy-pipehorse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pygmy pipehorse</a> belongs to a group that includes seahorses and pipefishes.



Colorful and small, the pipehorse stretches barely 2 inches (5 centimeters) in length, and clings to sponges on shallow reefs.



“Its discovery in shallow coastal waters serves as a reminder of how much we still have to learn,” said Graham Short of the California Academy of Sciences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-one-fish-with-three-different-species">One fish with three different species</h2>



In the inland freshwaters of the Amazon Basin, scientists analyzed a fish that many believed was just one species: the black-barred pacu (Myloplus schomburgkii). More detailed <a href="https://www.ni.bio.br/content/v22n2/1982-0224-2023-0095/1982-0224-ni-22-02-e230095.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studies</a>, however, revealed that there were three <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-species-extinction-risk-five-times-higher-than-past-estimates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> with separate ranges.



They include Myloplus aylan in western Amazon blackwater systems, Myloplus schomburgkii across Guiana and Brazilian Shields, and Myloplus sauron, which is confined to the Xingu River. Local fishers once lumped the species together because they share a distinct vertical stripe down the flank and look similar.



One group roams the Rio Negro, featuring a band that is uniform along its length. The second group inhabits black-water tributaries in the western reaches of the Amazon, with a wider bar that broadens at the center.



The third group emerges only in the swift waters of the Xingu River. They bear a narrower bar that tapers toward both ends.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-hidden-fish-species">Finding hidden fish species</h2>



Local communities in Peru, South Africa, and Brazil were crucial collaborators. They guided researchers to hidden spots and unusual habitats where these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-coral-reef-fish-survive-in-the-worlds-warmest-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish</a> thrive.



These discoveries highlight the importance of environmental DNA, camera traps, and community partnerships in detecting rare species. 



Black-barred pacus are already a valuable part of the ornamental fish trade, with their striking appearance making them popular among aquarium enthusiasts. 



However, beyond their role in the pet industry, these fish hold significant importance for local fisheries, where they contribute to both livelihoods and food security. Many communities depend on them as a reliable source of protein and economic stability.



Efforts are underway to study the diets and population dynamics of these newly recognized fish species. Researchers aim to balance ecological health with economic needs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-the-new-fish-species">Protecting the new fish species</h2>



The research demonstrates how much biodiversity remains undocumented, even in regions impacted by human activity. Scientists emphasize that identifying new species is just the first step - protecting them from habitat destruction and overfishing is the bigger challenge.



Many of these newly identified species live in fragile <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-catastrophic-decline-in-migratory-freshwater-fish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> that are under threat from deforestation, mining, and climate change. 



Researchers study these species’ populations and ecological roles to develop stronger conservation policies. Their goal is to protect both the newly discovered fish species and the local communities that rely on them for survival.



Information about the new fish species is published here for <a href="https://www.conservation.org/docs/default-source/publication-pdfs/rap-73-alto-mayo-peru.pdf?sfvrsn=e66add1e_3">Peru</a>,<a href="https://australian.museum/blog/amri-news/sodwana-pygmy-pipehorse/"> South Africa</a>, and the <a href="https://www.ni.bio.br/content/v22n2/1982-0224-2023-0095/1982-0224-ni-22-02-e230095.pdf">Amazon Basin</a>.



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More than two dozen unusual fish species discovered in Peru and the Amazon

A recent surge of newly identified animal species has sparked...

Polar bear cubs are hidden away for months inside snowy dens. Their mothers nurse them in these quiet spaces, giving the tiny cubs a chance to grow before they set foot on the cold spring ice.



A team of esearchers led by the <a href="https://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toronto Scarborough</a> have spent multiple years monitoring different dens in a remote region of the Arctic. 



The experts installed remote cameras to see exactly when and how often <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-bears-are-suffering-from-an-energy-deficit-due-to-lack-of-food-access/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">families</a> emerged. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polar-bear-dens-and-cub-survival">Polar bear dens and cub survival</h2>



A <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/centers/alaska-science-center/science/polar-bear-maternal-denning" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">maternal den</a> is not just a warm hideout for the cubs. It also allows them to develop muscles and thick fur in relative safety.



Many bears excavate dens in hilly spots where snow piles up, creating hidden alcoves. Inside, the female takes a long rest, ensuring the cubs gain enough weight before they face the outside world.



Scientists have observed that these dens can regulate temperature to some degree, offering needed protection from Arctic storms. This microclimate appears to help newborns stay healthier for those crucial first weeks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-impacts-on-polar-bear-dens">Climate impacts on polar bear dens</h2>



The Arctic is <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-022-00498-3">heating</a> about four times faster the global average. This has contributed to thinning sea ice and shifts in weather patterns.



“Polar bear mothers are having increasing difficulties reproducing due to climate-driven changes,” said Dr. Louise Archer, lead author of the study from U of T Scarborough. 



The polar bears are responding to these pressures as best they can, but unpredictability in snow cover may alter den stability.



A shorter winter season could force earlier den exits in some areas. When cubs leave too soon, they may be less prepared to follow their mother in search of seals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glimpses-from-camera-traps">Glimpses from camera traps</h2>



The cameras caught a variety of behaviors, like a mother stepping outside to sniff the air while cubs remained behind. Sometimes the cubs hopped out with her, often staying close to her side.



These snapshots help <a href="https://wildlife.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/jwmg.22725" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scientists</a> match the precise timing of outdoor activity with temperature readings from <a href="https://atstrack.com/tracking-products/gps-satellite.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">satellite telemetry collars</a>. The videos create a fuller picture of what life looks like at each den site.



Remote monitoring also shows that cubs rarely wander without their mother, even near the den entrance. For young <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-doesnt-stick-to-polar-bear-fur-but-why/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bears</a>, this companionship provides a layer of defense and teaching.



“This study provides a rare glimpse into one of the most vulnerable and critical periods in a polar bear’s life, offering insights that can help guide our collective conservation efforts,” said Dr. Megan Owen, Vice President of Wildlife Conservation Science at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-behavior-and-cub-mortality">Shifting behavior and cub mortality </h2>



Each family follows its own schedule, which can shift from year to year.&nbsp;Some families linger around the den area longer than others. This behavior might be tied to temperatures or the mother’s overall condition after months of fasting.



If changing winters consistently prompt earlier den exits, cubs might face harsher outdoor conditions. Once they leave, they become far more dependent on sea ice to locate prey.



In many regions, less than half of polar bear cubs reach adulthood. As denning routines unravel, cub mortality is set to increase.



Industrial expansion adds another concern. Noisy activity could disrupt denning, prompting mothers to move or leave prematurely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-boosting-conservation-efforts">Boosting conservation efforts</h2>



Scientists are integrating collar data, long-term temperature tracking, and camera footage to inform wildlife agencies. These resources offer a toolkit for spotting early warning signs of stress on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-bear-conservation-leaps-forward-with-new-tracking-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polar bear</a> reproduction.



By detecting changes in maternal den use, specialists can plan safer buffer zones in sensitive locations. “Studies including observational data at polar bear den sites have been few,” said Dr. Jon Aars, senior researcher at the Norwegian Polar Institute.



The research also helps local communities and industries schedule operations that minimize contact with newborn cubs. It’s a practical step toward ensuring that mothers stay in place until their young can handle Arctic conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-polar-bear-den-areas">Protecting polar bear den areas </h2>



Polar bears rely on stable ice for hunting, but they also need reliable snow for den construction. The entire cycle depends on a balance that is now under pressure from rapid warming.



Collaboration between organizations like Polar Bears International, the Norwegian Polar Institute, and San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance demonstrates a shared commitment to understanding these trends. The more that experts can learn, the better they can guide policies that protect cubs through their most fragile months.



Researchers continue refining camera technology and other remote methods. They hope these insights will broaden awareness and shape decisions that keep den areas undisturbed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-denning-time-is-crucial">Why denning time is crucial </h2>



The images of tiny bears stepping onto the snow are stirring. Yet each moment outside the den represents a big shift in a young <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-bears-are-struggling-to-survive-longer-summers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bear’s life</a>.



Gaining muscle strength and adjusting to the climate take time, especially for altricial cubs that are born underdeveloped. An early departure could lessen their chances out on the ice, where finding the right prey is already no small task.



The hope is that protective measures can give these polar bear families a fair shot. After all, a thriving generation of cubs hints at a better future for the species.



The study is published in <a href="https://wildlife.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/jwmg.22725" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Journal of Wildlife Management</a>.



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Polar bear cubs are emerging earlier from dens

Polar bear cubs are hidden away for months inside snowy...

It seems unthinkable that anything could live after tens of thousands of years in hibernation. The discovery of a tiny creature in the Siberian permafrost has sparked conversations about how resilient life can be.



In a recent breakthrough, researchers determined that a worm which had been frozen for about 46,000 years had survived and remained alive. 



Dr. Philipp Schiffer, a group leader in the <a href="https://zoologie.uni-koeln.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Zoology</a> at the University of Cologne, and his colleagues, have been studying how this creature managed to survive well beyond its usual lifespan.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-environment-in-siberian-permafrost">Extreme environment in Siberian permafrost</h2>



Siberia has vast stretches of permafrost, which is soil or sediment that remains frozen for at least two consecutive years. 



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/permafrost-is-no-longer-permanent-arctic-communities-in-danger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frozen ground</a> can extend hundreds of feet below the surface in certain regions, with the cold temperatures preserving anything trapped within its layers.



Conditions in these areas can be challenging for people, but the permafrost forms perfect vaults for preserving animal remains. Thick ice and frigid temperatures keep organic material fresh enough to study thousands of years later.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-putting-life-on-pause">Putting life on pause</h2>



The resurrected worm belongs to a genus known for its ability to enter cryptobiosis, which is a biological strategy where life appears to stop under cold conditions. 



No major metabolic activity occurs in this state, and organisms can endure severe environmental conditions that would normally be lethal.



Biologists have documented cryptobiosis in other creatures, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-bear-tardigrade-fossils-reveal-how-they-survived-several-mass-extinction-events/">tardigrades</a> and certain brine shrimp. The animals halt their usual body functions until they can return to an environment that can support growth and reproduction.



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



Experts identified the newly studied nematode as Panagrolaimus kolymaensis, a species not previously described in scientific literature. 



Radiocarbon dating showed that the sample was tens of thousands of years old, indicating that this worm spent most of its existence in suspended animation under frozen sediment.



It was retrieved at a depth of about 40 yards (37 meters). This position helped it stay protected in that intense cold, and gave it a chance to be resurrected in modern laboratories, where it resumed normal activity and even produced offspring.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-survival-strategies">Unique survival strategies</h2>



According to the researchers, nematodes of this variety usually live for only one or two months. The worm that reawakened in the lab outlived that window by tapping into cryptobiotic powers that are still under investigation.



Special molecules may stabilize cells in these worms, keeping them intact despite extreme dryness or temperature shifts. Similar molecules have been found in other organisms that are known to survive dehydration and freezing.



“No one had thought that this process could last millennia, 40,000 years, or even longer. It is simply amazing that life can begin again after so long, in the state between life and death,” said Dr. Schiffer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetics-of-the-frozen-worm">Genetics of the frozen worm </h2>



The experts used genome sequencing to confirm that this worm was something different. Its lineage seems to share parts of the genetic toolkit for cryptobiosis with Caenorhabditis elegans, a nematode species that is commonly used in lab research.



Similar stasis has been observed in tardigrades, often called water bears. A 2017 NASA <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/podcasts/houston-we-have-a-podcast/water-bears-in-space/">study</a> noted their capacity to withstand harsh space conditions, suggesting these tiny beings have defense systems against extreme radiation and severe temperature swings.



Certain seeds can also remain viable for years in cold storage and then germinate when conditions improve. Yet the nematode’s frozen stretch lasted far longer than the typical lifetime for most preserved biological samples.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cryptobiosis-in-extreme-environments">Cryptobiosis in extreme environments</h2>



Scientists who focus on deserts, polar regions, and even other planets may look for parallels in cryptobiotic organisms. Environments like the Atacama Desert, known for its dryness, already harbor small <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-find-new-forms-of-life-inside-humans-rna-carriers-obelisks/">life forms</a> that have evolved impressive strategies to handle scarce moisture.



Conditions on Mars and icy moons around Saturn are less welcoming. However, knowledge of how simple creatures cheat time might lead to ideas about extraterrestrial survival or more efficient preservation methods for samples on Earth.



Cryptobiosis involves shutting down vital processes without losing structural integrity. Genetic pathways that enable such suspension might have applications in food preservation or even organ transplants.



If scientists isolate the genes that protect cells against freezing, future technologies could incorporate them into strategies for stabilizing delicate tissues. Biomedical researchers are always searching for ways to minimize damage from cold storage or dehydration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-legacy-of-the-frozen-worm">The legacy of the frozen worm</h2>



The original specimen has died, but its offspring remain alive in controlled conditions. This provides more opportunities for tests on how these <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/nematodes/">nematodes</a> handle rehydration, changes in temperature, and prolonged hibernation.



Genetic comparisons with other species may shed light on whether these traits developed once in nematode history or evolved in multiple lineages separately. Either way, the results challenge the idea that living things cannot pause for millennia.



Experts see the next research steps involving experiments that identify proteins or sugars that replace water in the worm’s cells during dormancy. They could also investigate new forms of cryptobiosis in other deep-freeze environments, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stability-of-antarctica-is-threatened-by-submarine-canyons/">Antarctic glaciers</a>.



Evolutionary biologists might expand research into older permafrost samples. If more ancient specimens are discovered, scientists may gain a better understanding of how life on Earth endures in these harsh and extreme conditions.



The study is published in <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosgenetics/article?id=10.1371/journal.pgen.1010798" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS Genetics</a>.



Image Credit: Shatilovich et al, 2023, PLOS Genetics



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Frozen worm comes back to life after 46,000 years

It seems unthinkable that anything could live after tens of...

Flowers do more than brighten gardens and decorate tables. Their scent - sweet, musky, or sometimes citrusy - isn’t just for human enjoyment. It’s a luring message, a chemical whisper meant for pollinators.



For years, scientists have tried to crack the genetic code behind floral fragrance, and now, a research team has found a crucial piece of the puzzle.



Led by Professor Alexander Vainstein at <a href="https://en.huji.ac.il" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Hebrew University</a> of Jerusalem, the study reveals that a single gene, PhDEF, pulls double duty. It doesn’t just shape the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flowers-as-food-how-ultrasound-makes-it-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">petals</a>; it also controls the flower’s scent. 



This discovery could reshape agriculture, horticulture, and even biotechnology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-petal-shape-and-scent-in-flowers">Linking petal shape and scent in flowers</h2>



The study flips the script on what we thought PhDEF did. This gene was always known for defining petal identity, but researchers discovered another, unexpected function - it helps flowers <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/corpse-flowers-amorphophallus-titanum-smell-like-death-but-thousands-rush-to-see-them-bloom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">produce scent</a>.



And not just at any time. PhDEF kicks in later in flower development, orchestrating the release of compounds that attract pollinators.



Using genetic analysis and viral-induced gene silencing, the research team tested what would happen if PhDEF was turned off.



The result? A dramatic drop in floral fragrance. Petunias that once filled the air with their scent suddenly became undetectable, their chemical signals lost.



"Our findings show that PhDEF is not just responsible for defining petal identity but also for coordinating the production of scent compounds critical for pollination," said Professor Vainstein. 



"This dual functionality suggests that petunia flowers have evolved an integrated regulatory mechanism to optimize their attraction to pollinators."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scent-production-in-flowers">Scent production in flowers</h2>



PhDEF does not act alone in controlling floral scent. The experts identified it as a key regulator that activates two other important genetic regulators, EOBI and EOBII. These regulators then control a set of genes responsible for producing and releasing floral scent compounds.



Think of PhDEF as a master switch. When it is active, it triggers a chain reaction. First, it turns on EOBI and EOBII, which then activate other genes involved in scent production. This process leads to the creation and emission of molecules like methyl benzoate and benzyl alcohol - compounds that give flowers their characteristic fragrance.



To test PhDEF’s role, the scientists silenced it in petunias. The result was striking: the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-bees-value-quality-over-quantity-in-flower-selection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flowers</a> lost most of their scent, but their petal shape remained unchanged. This proved that scent production and petal formation, though both controlled by PhDEF, are separate processes.



The discovery suggests that floral fragrance can be modified through genetic changes without altering the flower’s physical appearance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-this-means-for-flowers-and-crops">What this means for flowers and crops</h2>



Imagine flowers bred for beauty but stripped of their fragrance, such as roses that look stunning but smell like nothing.



Many commercial varieties have suffered this fate. But now, with PhDEF in the spotlight, scientists might be able to bring scent back to flowers bred for aesthetics.



The implications extend beyond ornamental plants. Many crops depend on pollinators, and enhancing floral scent could increase their attractiveness to bees and other essential pollinators. Stronger scents might mean better yields, more reliable pollination, and greater stability for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-of-life-created-for-flowering-plants-using-400-million-specimens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agriculture</a>.



The fragrance industry, too, could benefit. By tweaking PhDEF and its related pathways, bioengineers could craft flowers with specific scent profiles, creating natural perfumes tailored to human preferences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-s-fine-tuned-balance">Nature’s fine-tuned balance</h2>



This discovery adds another layer to our understanding of plant biology. It shows how nature optimizes every detail, ensuring that flowers not only look appealing but also produce the right chemical signals at the right time. 



The genetic link between petal formation and scent production reveals a carefully balanced system - one that could have applications far beyond what we see today.



"This discovery advances our knowledge of plant biology and offers potential applications for breeding more resilient and pollinator-friendly crops," said Professor Vainstein.



Science continues to pull back the curtain on nature’s secrets. With every breakthrough, we move closer to harnessing these intricate systems - whether to create more fragrant flowers, improve pollination, or develop new scents for industry.



The more we learn, the more we realize that nothing in nature is accidental. It’s all part of a finely tuned symphony, playing out in every garden, field, and greenhouse.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/plcell/article/37/2/koaf027/8003630" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Plant Cell</a>.



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Flowers get their shape and scent from a single gene

Flowers do more than brighten gardens and decorate tables. Their...

In the vast, unseen world beneath our feet, an ancient network of fungi moves carbon and nutrients across underground highways.



Mycorrhizal fungi form intricate partnerships with plants, exchanging resources in ways that help regulate Earth’s ecosystems and atmosphere.



Despite their vital role, much about the complex underground fungi trade has remained a mystery.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-fungal-networks">Mystery of fungal networks </h2>



Scientists have long known about this relationship but, until now, they didn’t fully understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fungi-engage-in-more-conversations-after-rainfall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fungi</a> construct these expansive and highly efficient supply chains.



New research, published in the journal Nature, reveals the sophisticated strategies fungi use to transport resources underground.



By tracking half a million fungal highways and the movement of nutrients within them, a team of scientists has mapped out how these brainless organisms make trade decisions, build routes, and manage traffic flow. 



The findings offer insights into how natural systems have solved logistical problems that humans are only beginning to tackle with artificial intelligence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-role-in-carbon-storage">Critical role in carbon storage</h2>



Mycorrhizal fungi play a crucial role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organic-farming-practices-boost-soil-carbon-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon storage</a>, drawing an estimated 13 billion tons of CO2 into the soil each year. This is equivalent to about a third of global energy-related emissions.



More than 80% of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-and-fungi-communicate-using-a-silent-language/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a> species rely on these fungi to exchange carbon for essential nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen. 



Despite their massive impact on the planet, little was known about how fungi coordinate this trade without a central brain or nervous system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-adaptation-of-fungal-networks">Dynamic adaptation of fungal networks </h2>



Using a custom-built imaging robot, a team of 28 international researchers discovered that fungi construct a lace-like mycelial network that moves carbon outward from plant roots in a wave-like pattern. 



These networks adapt dynamically, controlling the speed and width of their resource highways to optimize efficiency.



Special exploratory branches that act as microscopic "pathfinders," reach into new territory, seemingly prioritizing future trade opportunities over immediate short-term gains.



“We’ve been mapping the decentralized decision-making processes of mycorrhizal fungal networks, exposing a hyper-efficient blueprint for an underground supply chain,” said evolutionary biologist Dr. Toby Kiers of Amsterdam’s Vrije Universiteit.



“Humans increasingly rely on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neuromorphic-computing-where-ai-meets-human-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI</a> algorithms to build supply chains that are efficient and resilient. Yet mycorrhizal fungi have been solving these problems for more than 450 million years."



"This is the kind of research that keeps you up at night because these fungi are such important underground circulatory systems for nutrients and carbon."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unlocking-fungal-secrets-with-robots">Unlocking fungal secrets with robots</h2>



To uncover these hidden fungal behaviors, the team developed an imaging robot that ran continuously in Amsterdam, and allowed them to track how fungi reshaped their trade routes over time and space. This condensed what would have taken a century of human observations into just three years.



“We discovered that these fungi are constantly adapting their trade routes, adding loops to shorten paths so they could efficiently deliver nutrients to plant roots,” said Dr. Thomas Shimizu, an expert at the physics institute AMOLF in Amsterdam.



Like a navigation app tracking real-time congestion, the team measured resource flow across the fungal highways. By analyzing over 100,000 particle flows, they observed how fungi regulated traffic to ensure efficient delivery. 



“By using our robot instead of a human being, we cut the lab time from a century to around three years,” Shimizu added.



According to British mycologist Dr. Merlin Sheldrake, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robotic-insects-may-be-the-future-of-farming-and-plant-pollination/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robotics</a> is making it possible to study fungal behavior in unprecedented detail, and at an unprecedented scale.



“These techniques open the door to future work to understand the ways that these living, sensing, networks regulate ecosystem function and the Earth’s nutrient cycles," said Dr. Sheldrake.



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



The findings come at a critical time. As CO2 levels in the atmosphere continue to rise, scientists are eager to understand how fungal networks influence carbon storage underground.



Dr. Kiers, who is also the executive director of the Society for the Protection of Underground Networks (SPUN), emphasized the importance of this work.



“Because these fungal networks are key entry points of carbon into global soils, we can now explore what triggers fungi to increase carbon flows underground," said Dr. Kiers.



Just like human supply chains, the efficiency of fungal networks depends on how well they transport resources to the right place at the right time, with minimal waste.



“Understanding how these fungal networks adjust internal flows and resource trading to build supply chains in response to environmental stimuli will be an important direction for future research,” said Dr. Howard Stone, professor of mechanical and aserospace engineering at <a href="https://www.princeton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Princeton University</a>.



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



The research team is already pushing forward with the next phase of their work. They are developing a new robot that will increase data collection tenfold, allowing them to study how fungal networks respond to environmental changes, including disruptions and rising temperatures.



The question now is whether human-designed supply chains can learn from these ancient fungal strategies. For over 450 million years, fungi have been solving logistical challenges that modern industries still struggle with. 



As technology advances, nature may yet hold the key to making our own systems more efficient, resilient, and sustainable.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08614-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Underground fungal networks are nature's hyper-efficient architects

In the vast, unseen world beneath our feet, an ancient...

Deep in the Golden State, a new manzanita shrub species has been discovered, but its survival already teeters on the brink - threatened by the relentless spread of urbanization.



The manzanita, a shining symbol of California's diverse flora, is known for its twisted branches and the incredible resilience it shows in the face of wildfire challenges.



With more than 60 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/californias-native-wildflowers-can-be-restored-by-raking-dead-grass/">species native</a> to the state, this group of shrubs and small trees plays a crucial role in local ecosystems, providing food and shelter for wildlife.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nipomo-mesa-s-native-treasure">Nipomo Mesa's native treasure</h2>



Researchers have now identified a new species of manzanita to add to the iconic collection. Discovered along the central coast, it has been named Arctostaphylos nipumu to recognize the Nipomo Mesa, where it was found, and to honor its Indigenous heritage.



Amy Litt, a plant biologist at the <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California Riverside</a>, expressed her surprise at finding a new species in a highly urbanized district.



"We weren’t expecting to find a new species in such a developed area. But as we examined the plants, we realized the Nipomo Mesa plants were quite distinct. We were subsequently able to show that they not only look different but are genetically unique," noted Litt.



This manzanita species sports a distinct, shaggy grey bark, which differentiates it from the emblematic red bark found on most of its Californian relatives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-adaptations-of-manzanitas">Unique adaptations of manzanitas</h2>



Manzanita species are not just visually striking but also ecologically specialized, with remarkable adaptations that help them thrive in California’s harsh, fire-prone climate.



Their waxy, evergreen leaves minimize water loss, while deep roots tap into underground moisture reserves, which allows them to endure <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/megadroughts-are-becoming-more-frequent-and-severe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prolonged droughts</a>.



Unlike most chaparral plants, manzanitas don’t resprout following a fire. Instead, their hard-shelled seeds require intense heat or smoke exposure to break dormancy and germinate, ensuring their regeneration in fire-swept landscapes.



Beyond their resilience, manzanitas serve as ecological keystones, offering nectar-rich flowers to pollinators like bees and hummingbirds, while their nutrient-dense berries sustain a variety of other birds and mammals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-significance-of-manzanitas">Ecological significance of manzanitas</h2>



Manzanitas contribute to the biodiversity of California and play a crucial part in native ecosystems as sources of food and habitat for wildlife.



The historical value of manzanitas is entrenched in Indigenous tribal culture. Their berries are a source of food, their leaves are harvested for medicine, and their wood provides material for tools and firewood.



The recently discovered A. nipumu is no exception, and adds to the rich and iconic floral legacy of the state.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-manzanita-will-fight-for-survival">New manzanita will fight for survival</h2>



However, the survival of this manzanita species is already under threat due to the impending urban development unleashed by the Dana Reserve Project. 



This recently approved housing development could potentially destroy much of the habitat where this species is located - threatening half of this plant's fragile <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/using-light-to-identify-plant-populations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">population</a>.



Researchers, including plant geneticist and study co-author Bill Waycott, have alerted local officials to the potential ecological repercussions of the development plans. 



The discovery of A. nipumu has prompted environmental organizations such as the California Native Plant Society to emphasize the ecological significance of the Nipomo Mesa.



These concerns are further amplified by the fact that, like many manzanitas, A. nipumu relies on fire for seed germination. However, its inability to<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/native-wildflowers-that-thrive-after-fire-are-facing-new-challenges/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> resprout after wildfires</a> due to the lack of a protective burl makes it especially vulnerable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitat-restoration-and-genetic-diversity">Habitat restoration and genetic diversity</h2>



Tito Abbo, co-author of the study and graduate student in the Litt lab, pointed out the difficulties associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-wildlife-habitats-may-prevent-the-next-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">restoring habitats</a>.



Abbo explained that the reintroduction of native species is often facilitated using nursery stock that does not have the same genetic diversity as the wild relatives. Such plants are more vulnerable to disease and environmental stress.



“When you propagate from just a few individuals, you have a limited pool of genetic diversity and potentially less variation in natural plant defenses,” explained Abbo.



With the looming threat of urban expansion, unique habitats like the Nipomo Mesa are faced with destruction. Once their habitats are lost, they are near impossible to restore fully.



The future of A. nipumu remains uncertain, but its official recognition marks a crucial first step, paving the way for essential discussions and efforts toward its preservation.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://phytokeys.pensoft.net/article/139172/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PhytoKeys</a>.



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Urban growth threatens newly discovered manzanita species

Deep in the Golden State, a new manzanita shrub species...

Tree,Canopy,Against,A,Sky,Background,With,Oxygen,O2,And

When sunlight streams onto a leaf, something remarkable happens. Energy from those rays flows through molecular pathways with an efficiency that has sparked curiosity for generations.



The new study was led by <a href="https://www.professoren.tum.de/en/hauer-juergen" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Jürgen Hauer</a>, from the Technical University Munich (TUM). 



Researchers around the world are intrigued because these plants seem to tap into the puzzling principles of <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/quantum-mechanics-physics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a> to manage light energy with hardly any losses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-photosynthesis-the-basics">Understanding photosynthesis - the basics</h2>



Photosynthesis is nature’s way of making food from sunlight, and it’s the reason we have oxygen to breathe. 



Plants, algae, and some bacteria use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create glucose (a type of sugar) and oxygen. Think of it like a solar-powered kitchen where plants whip up their own energy-packed meals. 



They <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunlight-may-be-the-secret-weapon-for-direct-co2-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">absorb sunlight</a> through chlorophyll, the green pigment in their leaves, and use that energy to power the chemical reactions that turn CO₂ and water into food. 



The best part? They release oxygen as a byproduct, which is pretty convenient for the rest of us.



Photosynthesis isn’t just about keeping plants alive - it <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-photosynthesis-could-transform-power-generation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">keeps the entire planet running</a>. It’s the foundation of the food chain, feeding everything from tiny insects to massive mammals. 



It also helps regulate Earth’s atmosphere by pulling carbon dioxide out of the air, which is crucial for balancing the climate. 



Without photosynthesis, we wouldn’t have forests, fruits, or even the air we need to survive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-plants-use-quantum-effects">How plants use quantum effects</h2>



There is a concept known as a <a href="https://quantum.microsoft.com/en-us/insights/education/concepts/superposition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superposition</a> where energy or particles overlap in multiple possible states. It sounds futuristic, yet plants have harnessed it for billions of years to maximize their solar intake.



“When light is absorbed in a leaf, for example, the electronic excitation energy is distributed over several states of each excited chlorophyll molecule; this is called a superposition of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-particles-solution-gravitational-wave-mystery-bose-einstein-condensate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">excited states</a>,” explained Professor Hauer, from TUM. 



A large part of this process involves <a href="https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-chlorophyll" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chlorophyll</a>, a green pigment that absorbs specific wavelengths of light.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shining-a-light-on-energy-states">Shining a light on energy states</h2>



Once a leaf catches light, it must transfer that energy before it disperses as heat. These first moments happen incredibly fast, and scientists believe that the stable electron pathways in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/photosynthetic-bacteria" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthetic bacteria</a> work in a similar way.



“Quantum mechanics is therefore central to understanding the first steps of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tapping-into-the-natural-power-of-plants-for-renewable-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy tr</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tapping-into-the-natural-power-of-plants-for-renewable-energy/">ansfer</a> and charge separation,” said Professor Hauer, from TUM.



<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/nature05678" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Studies</a> suggest that tiny wave-like processes guide the energy flow toward the chemical centers of a plant cell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-refining-artificial-photosynthesis">Refining artificial photosynthesis</h2>



The team see their investigation as a way to apply these natural insights to engineered light-harvesting materials. 



They propose that a molecule’s electronic states, arranged in precise ways, could push energy transfer systems closer to a near-ideal performance.



“Applying these findings in the design of artificial photosynthesis units could help to utilize solar energy with unprecedented efficiency for electricity generation or photochemistry,” noted one author, from TUM.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexities-of-capturing-sunlight">Complexities of capturing sunlight</h2>



Scientists have discovered that multiple electronic states overlap in chlorophyll, forming avenues where light pulses can glide without much resistance. 



This near-lossless flow has prompted chemists and physicists to look deeper into fast relaxation steps that keep the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-a-simple-way-to-grasp-this-impossible-concept-carl-kocher/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy</a> from leaking away.



These fast steps include a balance of vibrations, state couplings, and energy release in the form of heat. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20615985/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Researchers</a> use ultrafast lasers that fire pulses lasting fractions of a trillionth of a second to watch these early changes unfold.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-quantum-changes-in-plants">Small quantum changes in plants</h2>



A closer look reveals subtle differences between specific energy bands, which keep the overall transfer chain stable. 



Minor adjustments in the distance or angle of chlorophyll molecules can create big changes in how efficiently they pass along absorbed sunlight.



While classical physics alone cannot fully describe these happenings, quantum approaches appear to fill the gap. 



The main question is how to control these states in ways that mimic or surpass the leaf’s skill at capturing photons.



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



A major goal is to build artificial systems that hold onto light longer and send it wherever it is needed. 



Some researchers believe that refining these structures will lead to better photo-devices that power homes or drive chemical reactions at a lower cost.



These fields combine chemistry, biology, and physics in a push to boost the performance of everything from solar cells to photochemical reactors. 



The end game is to create technology that behaves like nature’s wonders yet fits human needs for large-scale energy use.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peeking-beyond-the-horizon">Peeking beyond the horizon</h2>



By rethinking conventional energy strategies, scientists hope to replicate the efficiency seen in plants and photosynthetic bacteria. 



That might mean reimagining how we store solar energy, with designs that keep the delicate molecular dance intact.



This latest <a href="https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2025/sc/d4sc06441k" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> breaks ground by confirming that quantum-level effects play a practical role in photosynthesis. 



That assurance opens doors for more projects aiming to push molecular engineering to places once thought too esoteric.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-any-of-this-matter">Why does any of this matter?</h2>



Teams worldwide are now looking to refine advanced spectroscopic methods. 



Part of that involves filtering complex signals to trace how each portion of light energy travels through molecules before being anchored in chemical form.



Those explorations will likely feed into new concepts that bend or arrange chlorophyll-like compounds in stable frameworks. 



As the principles get clearer, labs will be able to prototype test cells that channel energy with minimal waste.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-quantum-mechanics-and-the-future">Plants, quantum mechanics, and the future</h2>



With continued research, engineers may learn to craft artificial setups that match nature’s unparalleled handling of sunshine. 



The goal is to shrink losses in electron flow by orchestrating molecular states the same way leaves have done for ages.



It is not just about building better solar panels, though that is a key outcome. 



It is also about figuring out how this quiet whisper of quantum activity, hidden within ordinary green leaves, can keep inspiring more ideas in energy science.



The study is published in <a href="https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2025/sc/d4sc06441k" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chemical Science</a>.



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Plants rely on quantum mechanics to manage and transfer energy

When sunlight streams onto a leaf, something remarkable happens. Energy...

In the heart of Los Angeles, trees are absorbing considerably more carbon dioxide than we ever imagined, and effectively balancing a large chunk of fossil fuel emissions during the warmer seasons, when the trees are at their most productive.



This unexpected carbon uptake highlights the crucial role that urban greenery plays in mitigating the effects of pollution. This finding challenges previous assumptions about the impact of vegetation in cities.



Beyond offering shade and aesthetic value, these trees act as silent workhorses in the city’s climate resilience strategy, capturing emissions at a scale that warrants closer examination.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-silent-heroes-of-los-angeles">The silent heroes of Los Angeles</h2>



This revelation comes courtesy of a new study, a collaboration between researchers from Public Exchange and the <a href="https://dornsife.usc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USC Dornsife </a>College of Letters, Arts and Sciences.



The research indicates that LA's trees generate impressive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-greening-affects-carbon-uptake-by-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon uptake</a> rates, absorbing up to 60% of daytime CO₂ emissions from fossil fuel combustion in spring and summer, and about 30% annually.



To monitor the CO2 levels, the researchers launched the Carbon Census array, employing 12 high-resolution sensors across a 15x6-mile section of Los Angeles.



“You can think of emissions like passengers on a train. As the wind moves pollution through the city, some gets picked up and some gets dropped off. These sensors let us see that process in real time,” explained study co-author Will Berelson.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-approach-to-measuring-co₂">A new approach to measuring CO₂</h2>



Traditional models estimate CO₂ levels based on fuel sales, traffic data, or the amount of CO₂ detected at a particular sensor. For this new study, the experts took a direct measurement approach.



Running from July 2021 to December 2022, the study provided a more precise and localized estimation of emissions, and offered a clearer picture of urban carbon flux.



To distinguish CO₂ generated by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-fossil-fuels-kills-5-million-people-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil fuels</a> from CO₂ emitted by living organisms, the researchers used carbon monoxide (CO) as a tracer. Since CO is co-emitted with CO₂ during fossil fuel combustion and behaves similarly in the atmosphere, it allowed scientists to differentiate human-driven emissions from those generated by natural sources.



While the study focused on a section of Los Angeles, its findings have broader implications. Similar methods could be applied to cities worldwide, and could refine our understanding of urban <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carbon-footprints-of-the-wealthy-are-vastly-underestimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon footprints</a> and inform more effective climate policies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-global-lesson-from-la-s-trees">A global lesson from LA’s trees</h2>



One startling revelation from the study was that trees absorb most CO₂ during the summer, despite the fact that this is the driest season in Los Angeles.



This is likely due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-irrigation-could-feed-feed-1-4-billion-more-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">irrigation</a>, groundwater access from leaky pipes, and resilient tree species that stay green and active in dry conditions.



Nevertheless, city trees cannot solve the emissions problem alone. Carbon dioxide levels still peak during rush hour, emphasizing that while greenery helps, it can't offset all pollution from cars, buildings, and industry on its own.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-urban-trees-initiative">The Urban Trees Initiative </h2>



This study is a key driver of the USC Urban Trees Initiative - a collaboration between USC, the city of Los Angeles, and community organizations focused on expanding urban greenery in underserved neighborhoods.



The research is critical for our fight against climate change. It provides a blueprint for how we can effectively track and reduce emissions more effectively. “Nature is helping us, but we can't rely on it to do all the work,” said Berelson.



Ultimately, the findings will help Los Angeles and other cities worldwide to meet their ambitious targets of becoming carbon-neutral.



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



USC has expanded its sensor network in the quest to monitor CO2 levels in more areas of Los Angeles. This will help define baseline values of emissions and identify where vegetation is making the most impact and where more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-york-city-greenery-absorbs-vast-amounts-of-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenery</a> is needed.



Ultimately, reducing fossil fuel consumption is the most crucial step in combating climate change. However, as we work toward that goal, let’s take a moment to appreciate city trees - they are working much harder than you think. 



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.4c11392" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Sciencce &amp; Technology</a>.



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City trees absorb much more carbon than expected

In the heart of Los Angeles, trees are absorbing considerably...

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