On February 2, 1887, residents of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania turned to a large rodent to predict the arrival of spring, marking the first official Groundhog Day.&nbsp;



Over 130 years later, according to Rob Guralnick, curator of biodiversity informatics at the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Museum of Natural History</a>, we haven’t made much progress in predicting seasonal changes.



“We can’t generate good forecasts for whether spring will arrive early or late next year nearly as well as we can make predictions about the weather,” Guralnick said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-the-climate-response-of-plants">Predicting the climate response of plants</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-oceans-hidden-influence-on-global-weather-patterns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Weather patterns</a> undoubtedly influence the seasons, but how plants and animals respond to those changes - a field called phenology - is equally important.&nbsp;



While meteorologists can reliably forecast temperatures months ahead, predicting when plants will sprout leaves or flowers remains a challenge. Add climate change into the mix, and the puzzle becomes even harder to solve.



However, a new study published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s43247-024-01807-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a> offers promising advancements.&nbsp;



By improving existing methods and incorporating the rate at which springtime temperatures rise, the study accurately predicts how seasonal cycles have shifted over the past 150 years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-bloom-earlier-in-a-warmer-climate">Plants bloom earlier in a warmer climate </h2>



The breakthrough came after researchers rediscovered a forgotten 19th-century report containing thousands of phenological observations across the eastern United States.&nbsp;



This report - the earliest citizen science project organized by the <a href="https://www.si.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smithsonian Institution</a> - documented when plants and animals became active across regions stretching from Michigan to Florida.



Theresa Crimmins, director of the <a href="https://www.usanpn.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USA National Phenology Network</a> and co-author of the study, stumbled upon the report while researching for a book chapter.&nbsp;



“I dug up this old document and realized there was actual data in it. Most of the other reports that had been referenced were just summaries,” said Crimmins.



The team used these historical records as a baseline. By comparing them with modern observations, they uncovered striking shifts.



“All 18 species advanced their leaf growth and flowering phenology,” Crimmins explained. “On average, it’s occurring more than three weeks earlier than it did in the past. There are some species that are flowering more than a month earlier.”



The findings confirm what scientists suspected: global warming has led to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-spring-follows-the-hottest-february-on-record/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earlier springs</a> and longer summers. Yet the study’s use of historical data over such an extensive time period is rare, making the results particularly compelling.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-regions-are-changing-faster-than-others">Some regions are changing faster than others</h2>



Interestingly, not all areas of the U.S. have experienced the same shifts. Phenology in the Northeast has advanced far more than in the Southeast, highlighting variations in the rate of change across latitudes.&nbsp;



Traditional models used to predict <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-plants-actively-shaped-earths-climate-cycle-throughout-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant activity</a> focus on two main variables: a plant’s location and the amount of warm weather needed for it to grow. While these models work for specific species in localized areas, they struggle to explain broader trends across diverse ecosystems.



“Not only is there variation across species, there’s variation across latitudes in the rate of global warming. Climate is warming faster at higher latitudes,” said co-author Lindsay Campbell, an assistant professor at the University of Florida’s <a href="https://fmel.ifas.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory</a>.



These complexities can result in unexpected patterns. For example, red maples, which typically bloom early in spring, may be outpaced by pink azaleas - traditionally later bloomers - if they grow in an area where temperatures rise quickly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-missing-factor-warming-velocity">A missing factor: Warming velocity</h2>



To solve these mysteries, Guralnick suspected an overlooked factor: the rate at which temperatures increase in spring, also called “warming velocity.”&nbsp;



Areas near large bodies of water, for example, warm more slowly because water retains heat longer than air. Such regions tend to experience gradual warming and milder winters.



To test this idea, Michaela Keys and Carolyn Davis, two museum interns, digitized the Smithsonian’s historical data. Co-author Erin Grady, a graduate student at the University of Florida, compiled modern observations from citizen science platforms like <a href="https://www.inaturalist.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iNaturalist</a> and the National Phenology Network.



Once the team ran the numbers, the results were clear: adding warming velocity dramatically improved the accuracy of their predictions. It also provided explanations for anomalies like late-blooming plants flowering ahead of early bloomers under certain conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-dance-between-plants-and-climate-change-nbsp">Complex dance between plants and climate change&nbsp;</h2>



These findings have important implications for conservation. As global temperatures continue to rise, species are not only shifting their seasonal cycles but also changing where they live. For conservationists, being able to predict these changes is vital for protecting ecosystems.



“I’ve always been skeptical about whether we’ll be able to predict what the world will look like in the near future, but I think we’re getting better at it as we take a more holistic view and as we get the underlying processes nailed down,” Guralnick said. “Doing so helps us manage the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-rich-tree-diversity-adapt-better-changing-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diversity</a> we have left.”



By combining historical observations with modern data and improved models, scientists are inching closer to understanding the complex dance between plants, temperature, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-defy-climate-change-through-acclimation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>.&nbsp;



As the planet warms, tools like these will be crucial for anticipating and mitigating the impacts of a shifting world.



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Predicting how climate change will alter plant growth cycles

On February 2, 1887, residents of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania turned to...

Scientists have announced the discovery of a species of lipstick vine that is completely new to science, found in the depths of the Philippine rainforest.



This species, which has never been documented in botanical records, has sparked a wave of excitement among scientists and nature enthusiasts alike. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-expedition-into-the-heart-of-luzon">An expedition into the heart of Luzon</h2>



A daring expedition by a team of botanists in 2022 led them into Barangay Balbalasang <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drones-reveal-hidden-biodiversity-in-rainforest-canopies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainforest</a>, a remote and virtually inaccessible part of Luzon island. 



The journey began with days of rugged travel to reach the rainforest, which was filled with unforgiving thickets that demanded to be sliced with machetes. In these wild conditions, the researchers discovered their prize.



The team included Jayson Mansibang, Adriane Tobias, and Pastor L. Malabrigo from the <a href="https://uplb.edu.ph/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of the Philippines Los Baños</a>, along with Dr. Chris Thorogood, Deputy Director and Head of Science at the Oxford Botanic Garden and Arboretum.



The researchers stayed with the Banao Tribe, an indigenous community that protects the local forest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-lipstick-vine-unlike-any-other">A lipstick vine unlike any other</h2>



Among the species found in the forest, one stood out - a specimen of the lipstick vine, a genus known as Aeschynanthus.



This plant had a distinct pattern of delicate purple mottling which painted its flowers in a pattern similar to that of a European <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/foxgloves-rapidly-evolved-in-the-presence-of-hummingbirds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">foxglove</a>.



"We were trekking through dense vegetation when suddenly we spotted a luminous white, purple-spotted flower dangling above our heads," said Dr. Thorogood.



"We suspected immediately that it was new to science. It’s so exciting that beautiful species like this are still there waiting to be described.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-discovery-of-a-new-lipstick-vine">The discovery of a new lipstick vine </h2>



The team named the plant Aeschynanthus pentatrichomatus from the Latin ‘penta,’ meaning five, and ‘trichomatus’ referring to the trichomes - hair-like outgrowths deep in the throats of the flowers.



Lipstick vines, encompassing nearly 180 tropical and subtropical species, are known for their tubular, bud-like appearance. 



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/woody-vines-amplify-the-effects-of-lightning-in-tropical-forests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vines</a>, often adorning other plants and trees, boast vibrantly colored flowers that attract birds for pollination.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-concerns-amid-climate-change">Conservation concerns amid climate change</h2>



Sadly, this newfound beauty already faces a critical risk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/all-plants-on-earth-could-be-saved-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinction</a>. Rapid climate change, driving increasingly intense typhoons, relentlessly threatens the plant's natural habitat.



The Barangay Balbalasang rainforest remains remarkably intact, housing numerous species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The researchers hope that the new discovery can help support conservation efforts to protect the region.



"We dedicate this discovery not only to the unique beauty of the Banao forest but also to the Banao People themselves, who, through their care and stewardship, have ensured the conservation of rare species within these precious forests," said Tobias.



"It’s rare to find Aeschynanthus in such an environment, and as young botanists, we were thrilled to discover something so distinct.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-world-s-plant-data-darkspots">The world's plant data darkspots </h2>



“Many new species remain undocumented in the world’s ‘plant data <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-diversity-darkspots-need-urgent-attention/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">darkspots</a>’ - up to 15% of the world’s flora in fact," noted Dr. Thorogood.



"Finding these ‘known unknowns’ is essential for understanding and protecting biodiversity. That’s what makes discoveries such as this one so important for conservation science.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-importance-of-lipstick-vines">Ecological importance of lipstick vines</h2>



The discovery of Aeschynanthus pentatrichomatus sheds light on the ecological importance of lipstick vines in tropical ecosystems. 



As epiphytes, these plants grow on trees without harming them, creating microhabitats that support diverse wildlife. 



Their vividly colored flowers play a vital role in attracting pollinators, particularly birds, which are essential for maintaining the delicate balance of tropical rainforests.



Beyond their ecological contributions, lipstick vines are indicators of environmental health. Their presence often signifies a well-preserved ecosystem, as these plants thrive only in stable and intact habitats. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-a-unique-rainforest">Protecting a unique rainforest </h2>



The discovery of this new species in Barangay Balbalasang emphasizes the rainforest’s unique biodiversity and the urgent need to safeguard it.



With nearly 180 known species of Aeschynanthus, each adapted to its specific environment, the newly discovered species offers valuable insights into the evolution of plant-pollinator relationships and the resilience of tropical flora in the face of climate change. 



Protecting Aeschynanthus pentatrichomatus is not just about preserving a single species; it is about safeguarding the intricate web of life that it supports.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://nsojournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/njb.04580" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nordic Journal of Botany</a>.



Image Credit: Chris Thorogood



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Beautiful new 'lipstick vine' found in the Philippine rainforest

Scientists have announced the discovery of a species of lipstick...

Who knew that there's a significant bond between grizzly bears and huckleberries? Their interaction transcends the simple paradigm of consumption, offering a deep dive into the realm of plant ecology.



In a recent study led by scientists from the University of British Columbia's Vancouver and Okanagan campuses, an eye-opening revelation was made about grizzly bears.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grizzly-bears-feasting-on-huckleberries"> Grizzly bears feasting on huckleberries</h2>



The study was focused on the behavior of grizzly bears in the Canadian Rocky Mountains during the summer season. The researchers found that while these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/were-polar-bears-feasting-on-fish-in-scotland-30000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bears</a> enjoy a feast of huckleberries, they are doing more for the development of these plants than just eating.



"Bears don't just eat huckleberries - they help them grow in new places," noted Aza Fynley Kuijt, the study's lead researcher from UBC's <a href="https://forestry.ubc.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Faculty of Forestry</a>.



"Our findings show that this mutual relationship is crucial for both species, especially as climate change shifts suitable habitats for huckleberries."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bears-as-long-distance-seed-dispersers">Bears as long-distance seed dispersers</h2>



At the heart of the study, an aspect of plant ecology known as endozoochory was examined. 



Simply put, endozoochory is the process where animals eat fruits containing seeds and later disperse those seeds over large areas through their droppings. In the case of grizzly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-bear-conservation-leaps-forward-with-new-tracking-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bears</a> and huckleberries, the researchers found this process to be highly beneficial.



When bears eat huckleberries, the seeds travel through their digestive system and are deposited far from the original plant. This not only spreads the seeds to new areas but also improves their chances of germination, helping the huckleberries grow in fresh and potentially better-suited habitats.



The team found that seeds which pass through a grizzly bear’s digestive system are much more likely to sprout and grow into huckleberry plants. These seeds have a germination rate of up to 28.5%, compared to only 0.2% for seeds that remain inside uneaten berries.



Why the difference? The digestive process removes the berry pulp, which contains substances that prevent the seeds from sprouting (known as germination inhibitors). 



By breaking down this barrier, the bears’ digestion enhances the seeds’ ability to grow, making the process essential for the huckleberries’ reproduction and survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grizzly-bears-huckleberries-and-ecosystems">Grizzly bears, huckleberries, and ecosystems</h2>



Imagine the movement of seeds being akin to an expansive, rippling shadow, journeying up to seven kilometers (4.3 miles) from their original feeding site.



This is what the researchers discovered from the 74 collared grizzly bears observed in the study. Up to 50% of the seeds consumed by the bears were spread about a kilometer from their source.



With huckleberries being a vital food source for grizzly bears during the late summer, this seed dispersal mechanism holds profound implications. It helps the huckleberries adapt to changing climates by infiltrating new, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-life-and-environment-co-evolved-over-500-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">suitable habitats</a>. 



Human activities such as urban development, resource extraction, and increased recreational activities in bear habitats could potentially disrupt this crucial ecological partnership.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-ecological-processes">Protecting ecological processes</h2>



This study highlights the intricate connections between large mammals and their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-diets-can-reduce-environmental-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environments</a>. 



"Wildlife conservation is not just about protecting certain species, but about looking after ecological processes and relationships," said Clayton Lamb, co-author and <a href="https://ok.ubc.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UBC Okanagan</a> biologist. 



"As we show here, looking after grizzly bears and movement corridors can also help huckleberries, which people and bears both adore." 



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



Grizzly bears, a subspecies of the brown bear, are iconic symbols of North American wilderness. Known for their size and strength, adult males can weigh between 300 to 800 pounds, while females are slightly smaller. 



These omnivores have a diverse diet that includes plants, insects, fish, and mammals, but berries play a critical role in their nutrition during late summer and fall.



Grizzlies are highly intelligent and exhibit complex behaviors, such as tool use and strategic hunting. They rely heavily on large home ranges for survival, often spanning hundreds of square kilometers. 



However, habitat loss and fragmentation pose significant threats to their populations. Conservation efforts focus on creating wildlife corridors to connect isolated habitats, ensuring genetic diversity and long-term survival.



Interestingly, beyond huckleberry seed dispersal, grizzly bears also play a role in soil enrichment. By digging for roots or preying on animals, they disturb the soil, aiding in nutrient cycling. 



This behavior benefits plant growth and contributes to overall ecosystem health. Their status as a keystone species highlights their importance in maintaining ecological balance.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0311809" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



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Grizzly bears help huckleberries thrive in a changing climate

Who knew that there's a significant bond between grizzly bears...

When we munch on tropical fruits like bananas or dab some shea butter cream onto our skin, we rarely think about how these products traveled thousands of miles to reach our hands. The journey of these agricultural goods comes with a heavier price for our planet’s biodiversity than we ever thought.



A new study published in the journal Nature Sustainability&nbsp;reveals that exporting agricultural products from tropical regions to major global markets is three times more harmful to biodiversity than previously estimated.



Researchers at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and ETH Zurich analyzed agricultural exports from 1995 to 2022 and linked these activities to significant biodiversity loss in producing countries like Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico, and Madagascar.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-agricultural-trade-and-biodiversity-loss">Agricultural trade and biodiversity loss</h2>



While it is well understood that intensive land use in tropical regions adversely affects biodiversity, the study highlights how international trade exacerbates this issue. Past assumptions attributed 20-30% of biodiversity loss in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-altering-the-temperature-in-66-of-tropical-forests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tropical regions</a> to agricultural exports.



However, the research team, led by Livia Cabernard, Stephan Pfister, and Stefanie Hellweg, discovered that over 90% of the biodiversity loss during the study period was linked to international trade.



“This is an alarming finding, as the threat to global biodiversity per square meter in tropical regions is a hundred times higher than in the importing countries,” said Cabernard, a professor of Sustainability Assessment of Food and Agricultural Systems at <a href="https://www.tum.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TUM</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advanced-modeling-brings-new-insights">Advanced modeling brings new insights</h2>



The researchers used a novel model that integrates satellite data to track land-use changes and their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-biodiversity-is-not-a-luxury-it-is-attainable-for-everyone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological impacts</a> over time.



Unlike older models, which often ignored fallow areas, this approach considered long-term species loss and ecosystem recovery time. The model also mapped trade flows, showing the direct connection between agricultural exports and land-use changes.



The findings are stark: over 80% of land-use changes in Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific region during the study period were due to agricultural exports, driving significant biodiversity loss.



Leading importers of these products include China (26%), the U.S. (21%), the Middle East (13%), and Europe (8%).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hotspots-of-biodiversity-loss">Hotspots of biodiversity loss</h2>



The study identified Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico, and Madagascar as hotspots of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-biggest-drivers-of-biodiversity-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species loss</a>. In these regions, the conversion of natural habitats into agricultural land has been particularly destructive.



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Brazil and Madagascar: Land conversion predominantly supports livestock grazing.</li>



<li>Indonesia: Rice and oilseed cultivation, particularly palm oil, drives habitat loss.</li>



<li>Mexico: The main exports are vegetables, nuts, and fruits, all contributing to biodiversity decline.</li>
</ul>



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



For importing countries, outsourcing agricultural production has reduced local biodiversity <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-know-far-less-about-four-footed-animals-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impacts</a>. Countries like Spain, Italy, Greece, and the U.S. have seen gains in conservation and restoration due to decreased domestic land use for agriculture. However, this comes at a global cost.



While biodiversity losses tied to domestic consumption have decreased in exporting countries like Brazil and Mexico, overall biodiversity loss has surged due to increased agricultural exports. 



“The connections between global trade and biodiversity loss are highly complex but of great importance. We need to think about environmental impacts on a global scale and combine various measures to develop effective levers,” said Cabernard.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-biodiversity-and-the-agricultural-trade">Balancing biodiversity and the agricultural trade</h2>



The researchers emphasize that mitigating biodiversity loss requires a multi-faceted approach.



“Supporting domestic agriculture in countries like Germany and Switzerland, ensuring transparent supply chains, and pricing that reflects ecological damage would be important steps to avoid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-biggest-drivers-of-biodiversity-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species loss</a> in these hotspots,” noted Cabernard.



Transparent supply chains and ecological pricing could incentivize sustainable practices in agriculture. Importing countries must also adopt policies that reduce reliance on tropical regions for agricultural imports, prioritizing biodiversity conservation globally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-sustainable-agricultural-practices">Supporting sustainable agricultural practices</h2>



The study’s findings highlight the need for global cooperation in addressing biodiversity loss. By reevaluating trade policies and supporting sustainable agricultural practices, countries can minimize the ecological toll of their consumption.



The intricate connections between agricultural trade and biodiversity demand innovative solutions to safeguard ecosystems in tropical regions.



This research from TUM and <a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETH Zurich</a> serves as a critical reminder of the global responsibility to protect biodiversity and promote sustainable trade practices. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41893-024-01433-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Sustainability</a>.



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Biodiversity loss linked to agricultural trade is alarmingly high

When we munch on tropical fruits like bananas or dab...

Trees offer undeniable cooling benefits during the day by providing shade and reducing heat through evaporation. However, new research&nbsp;reveals that at night, tree canopies can trap heat and potentially increase temperatures.



The study, led by scientists from the University of Cambridge, emphasizes the importance of strategic planning when integrating trees into urban landscapes to combat heat stress effectively.



"Trees have a crucial role to play in cooling cities down, but we need to plant them much more strategically to maximize the benefits which they can provide," said Dr. Ronita Bardhan, an associate professor at the University of Cambridge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-temperatures-and-urban-heat-stress">Rising temperatures and urban heat stress</h2>



Urban heat stress has become a global concern that is linked to health issues, increased energy demands, social inequalities, and infrastructure challenges.



Many cities have turned to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/resilient-trees-can-help-safeguard-cities-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree planting</a> as a mitigation strategy. Yet, the study warns that the wrong species or poor placement can negate these benefits.



By analyzing 182 studies covering 17 climates and 110 cities, the researchers have conducted the first global assessment of urban tree cooling. Findings highlight the complex interplay between tree species, urban layouts, and local climates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-day-vs-night-cooling-dynamics">Day vs. night cooling dynamics</h2>



Trees cool cities during the day by blocking solar radiation, evaporating water through their leaves, and influencing airflow with their foliage.



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li></li>
</ol>



At night, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-are-relocating-in-a-race-against-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree</a> canopies can trap longwave radiation from the ground, leading to a warming effect. 



This phenomenon, caused by aerodynamic resistance and stomatal closure (a response to heat and drought), varies significantly across climates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-specific-cooling-and-heating-effects">Climate-specific cooling and heating effects</h2>



The analysis revealed that urban trees provide varying degrees of cooling and heating depending on the climate:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Tropical wet and dry climates: Trees cooled cities by up to 12°C (21.6°F) but warmed them by 0.8°C (1.44°F) at night.</li>



<li>Arid climates: Cooling reached over 9°C (16.2°F), while nighttime warming was 0.4°C (0.72°F).</li>



<li>Temperate climates: Daytime cooling was 6°C (10.8°F), with a nighttime warming effect of 1.5°C (2.7°F).</li>



<li>Tropical rainforest climates: Cooling dropped to 2°C (3.6°F), with 0.8°C (1.44°F) warming at night.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategic-tree-planting-for-maximum-cooling">Strategic tree planting for maximum cooling</h2>



Cities with open urban layouts and mixed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-trees-is-important-but-reforestation-can-help-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree species</a> (evergreen and deciduous) achieved better cooling results, especially in temperate and tropical climates. Mixed species provide seasonal shading and three-dimensional cooling.



In arid regions, compact urban areas (like Cairo and Dubai) with evergreen trees experienced significant cooling benefits. Open spaces in low-rise cities allowed for larger tree canopies, further enhancing cooling by 0.4°C.



"Our study provides context-specific greening guidelines for urban planners to more effectively harness tree cooling in the face of global warming," noted Dr. Bardhan.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-matching-trees-to-urban-features">Matching trees to urban features</h2>



The study emphasized the importance of compatibility between tree species and urban features. Factors such as street orientation, visible sky ratio, and aspect ratio impact tree cooling <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-have-an-amazing-ability-to-adapt-to-new-climates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">efficacy</a>.



In compact urban zones with high temperatures, excessive canopy cover can trap heat at pedestrian levels. 



The researchers recommend using narrow species and sparse planting strategies in such areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-trees-solutions-for-urban-cooling">Beyond trees: Solutions for urban cooling</h2>



While trees are valuable, the study from the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> urges reliance on complementary strategies like solar shading and reflective materials. These solutions enhance urban cooling without the unintended effects of poorly planned tree placement.



To assist urban planners, the researchers developed an interactive map and database. This tool helps estimate cooling efficacy based on data from cities with similar climates and urban features.



"Urban planners should plan for future warmer climates by choosing resilient species which will continue to thrive and maintain cooling benefits," said Dr. Bardhan.



In summary, strategic tree planting can significantly mitigate urban heat stress, but careful consideration is essential. 



Selecting the right species, planting them in optimal locations, and incorporating complementary solutions can ensure that cities maximize cooling benefits while minimizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/should-we-cut-down-all-oak-trees-isoprene-emissions-air-pollution-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unintended consequences</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cooling-power-of-trees">The cooling power of trees</h2>



Large, mature trees provide greater cooling benefits due to their expansive canopies, which block sunlight and facilitate higher evaporation rates. 



Broadleaf species are especially effective, offering more shade and water evaporation compared to needleleaf trees. When planted in clusters, trees create a synergistic cooling effect by enhancing air circulation and providing widespread shade.



Proximity to water bodies further amplifies cooling effects, as the combination of tree shade and evaporation from water surfaces creates cooler microclimates. 



Native species often outperform non-native ones, as they are better adapted to local climates and conditions.



Evergreen trees offer year-round cooling, particularly in regions with less distinct seasonal changes. Additionally, leaf color influences cooling, with lighter-colored leaves absorbing less heat. Tree roots also play a role, cooling the soil and supporting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-than-one-third-of-the-worlds-trees-face-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthier ecosystems</a>.



A diverse mix of tree species strengthens urban forests, making them resilient to pests and ensuring long-lasting cooling benefits.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01908-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a>.



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Planting trees in the wrong place can make cities hotter

Trees offer undeniable cooling benefits during the day by providing...

Fairy,Circle

Namibia’s fairy circles have drawn curious visitors for a long time. These round patches appear across dry grasslands near the Namib Desert’s edge, leaving odd, bare patterns that spark questions. 



They stand out in a rugged environment known for extremes, puzzling observers while sparking debate and wonder.



The conversation took a new turn with research published in the journal Perspectives in Plant Ecology, Evolution and Systematics. 



The work looked at what actually happens to young grass in these circles, and it's starting to change the way people think about these patches. 



Scientists from Göttingen University’s <a href="https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/102170.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecosystem Modelling Department</a> and <a href="https://www.bgu.ac.il/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ben Gurion University</a> in Israel were part of the team examining these unusual grass rings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-study-fairy-circles">How to study fairy circles</h2>



The study analyzed 500 individual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-desert-plants-are-not-immune-to-crop-viruses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">desert grass plants</a> in four different Namib regions. Each plant’s root and leaf length was measured, and photographs recorded subtle differences in survival. 



They also measured soil moisture closely in the 2023 and 2024 rainy seasons. The scientists found that the top 4 to 5 inches of soil inside these circles became far too dry for new grass.



This area quickly turned into what the team called a death zone. Within just 10 to 20 days after rainfall, the tiny plants withered away.



The researchers pointed to a serious lack of soil water as the key reason the freshly sprouted grass died, not termites. That earlier theory had been popular, but it did not hold up when tested against the data. 



The team found that the moist soil deeper below the surface, at around 8 to 12 inches, gave <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-desert-plants-are-not-immune-to-climate-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">established grasses</a> outside the circles a distinct edge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-water-in-unexpected-places">Finding water in unexpected places</h2>



The older grass clumps near these circles reached water in deeper layers. Their roots extended about 8 to 12 inches below the surface. By tapping into these reserves, they held a lasting advantage after rainfall. 



“With their well-developed root system, these clumps of grass soak up the water particularly well. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/desert-grass-survives-by-capturing-moisture-from-fog/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">After the rain</a>, they have a huge competitive advantage over the freshly germinated grasses in the fairy circle," explained Dr. Stephan Getzin from <a href="https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/1.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Göttingen University</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/fairy-circles_namib-desert_aerial-view_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/fairy-circles_namib-desert_aerial-view_1s.webp" alt="Namibia’s fairy circles have drawn curious visitors for a long time. They stand out in a rugged environment known for extremes, puzzling observers while sparking debate and wonder." class="wp-image-1953298"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Namibia’s fairy circles have drawn curious visitors for a long time. They stand out in a rugged environment known for extremes, puzzling observers while sparking debate and wonder.</figcaption></figure>



“The new grass only loses a small amount of water via transpiration from its small leaves, resulting in insufficient ‘suction power’ to pull new water from deeper soil layers.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moisture-connection-to-fairy-circles">Moisture connection to fairy circles</h2>



Measurements showed that topsoil moisture dropped quickly right inside the circles. The dryness arrived sooner and lasted longer compared to spots outside these rings. 



“This is the cause of the death of the new grass in the fairy circle. Continuous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-floods-its-not-just-about-rainfall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil moisture</a> measurements over several years support this conclusion," Dr. Getzin surmised. 



"This is because the soil water in the fairy circle only decreases noticeably quickly with the strengthening and regrowth of the surrounding grass after rain.”



This research cast doubt on earlier ideas that termites created these circles by eating roots, as the team did not find any solid link between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/termites-are-natures-architects-building-well-ventilated-nests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">termite activity</a> and the fairy circles’ formation. 



This challenged a long-standing explanation and called into question how some earlier studies were interpreted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fairy-circles-water-and-life">Fairy circles, water, and life</h2>



The findings highlight how plants adapt in harsh places. The shape of these fairy circles may help grasses organize themselves to make use of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-water-day-a-focus-on-prosperity-and-peace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scarce water</a>. 



Such patterns can emerge without a plan, simply because plants react to the environment in ways that benefit their survival. 



The scarcity in these parts of Namibia encourages what the researchers described as swarm intelligence or self-organization, patterns that come about as individual organisms respond to tough conditions.



Deep in these desert grasslands, water is everything. When rain does come, it never stays long at the surface. The older plants have learned to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-rooted-crops-can-significantly-improve-soil-carbon-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reach deeper</a> for what they need. 



Fresh seedlings, on the other hand, have short roots and small leaves, never pulling in enough moisture to survive. 



This difference in ability to grab water shapes the look of these circles. It shows how living things respond to stress, forming arrangements that help them make the best of a bad situation.



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



Although this research explained a lot, no single study wraps up every question about these unusual patterns. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saudi-arabia-is-turning-degraded-desert-sand-into-blooming-soil/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Deserts have many secrets</a>, and each piece of work offers a snapshot of the hidden strategies that plants use to stay alive. 



The study’s approach to soil moisture measurements and plant growth gave a new perspective on how grass communities manage to get by on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/floods-are-becoming-more-deadly-in-the-desert/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">so little rain</a>.



The findings suggested a world of adaptation where small differences in root length or leaf size make all the difference. 



Over the years, new data may build on this understanding, but for now, this study has helped shape how people see these famous patches. 



It pointed to water scarcity as a major factor, rather than insects, and it revealed how local plants manage to survive by digging in a bit deeper.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-meaning-in-the-details">Finding meaning in the details</h2>



In a corner of the world where rain is rare and life can seem unforgiving, each tiny blade of grass tells a story. The fairy circles, stripped of young sprouts, highlight a balance between survival and loss. 



To sum it all up, this research suggested that those bare patches might hold water in ways that give established grasses a quiet advantage. 



Such subtle relationships are easy to miss at first glance, but careful work in the field brought them to light.



Under that hot sun, where every drop of water matters, these patterns show how nature’s living things adjust, survive, and keep going.



The full study was published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1433831924000039?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Perspectives in Plant Ecology, Evolution and Systematics</a>.



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"Fairy circles" found in the desert remain a mystery to science

Namibia’s fairy circles have drawn curious visitors for a long...

Dried,Marjoram,Or,Oregano,On,A,Black,Background,,Fresh,Marjoram

Many people experience everyday struggles when they cannot move as easily as they once did. They feel frustrated when their joints start aching and stiffening, and they find that doing even simple daily chores feels like pulling teeth.



They try various options -- exercises, pain relievers, and different foods -- hoping that something will help them feel more like themselves again.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-way-to-think-about-aching-joints">Different way to think about aching joints</h2>



Osteoarthritis is a chronic disease that affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and loss of movement. 



It occurs when the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones wears down over time, causing the bones to rub directly against each other. This issue can arise due to aging, previous injuries, or other factors.



According to the <a href="https://rheumatology.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American College of Rheumatology</a>, more than 58.5 million American adults have been diagnosed with a rheumatic disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-everyday-choices-with-comfort">Connecting everyday choices with comfort</h2>



For those who suffer from osteoarthritis, diet is a potentially important aspect of the treatment. 



Certain foods can relieve pain; for example, oregano is a herb with anti-inflammatory benefits that can be effective in pain relief.



While many folks already have oregano in the kitchen, they might not realize what this herb brings to the table. It is often used in cooking, but some may never have thought much about its effects on the body.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-layers-behind-a-familiar-flavor">Hidden layers behind a familiar flavor</h2>



And the truth is that oregano has a multitude of useful properties and health benefits.



A few years ago, a team of scientists even found that carvacrol, the substance in oregano oil that gives this herb its distinctive warm, aromatic smell and flavor, is effective against norovirus. 



The substance breaks down the virus’s tough outer layer, according to research published in the <a href="https://enviromicro-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jam.12453">Journal of Applied Microbiology.</a>



This kind of information may give people a pause. It shows that something as unassuming as a kitchen spice can have unexpected effects that go beyond adding flavor. 



If a small herb can show such potential in one area, there might be more layers yet to uncover.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-research-from-europe-suggests">What research from Europe suggests</h2>



Among the health benefits of oregano, there is one that has been highlighted by the <a href="https://www.uni-bonn.de/en/university/university" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bonn</a> in Germany and the <a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swiss Federal Institute of Technology</a> in Zurich in Switzerland. 



Oregano provides an active ingredient known as beta-caryophyllene (E-BCP) that has a positive impact on reducing joint pain and inflammation, which is why it is highly recommended as a preventative treatment for osteoarthritis.



People who are looking for simple ways to support their joints might want to remember this detail. It suggests that there are options outside of well-known treatments. 



Although oregano alone might not solve everything, knowing it can play a role and may encourage people to see their dietary habits differently.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-details-that-matter">Small details that matter</h2>



It also turns out that oregano oil has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties for toothaches. 



The oil, which can be used inside the mouth, can relieve the symptoms of infections with a few drops on the teeth.



This small detail might not be the first thing someone thinks about when they think of oregano, but it shows how everyday plants may hold surprising benefits. 



The world of natural foods is full of complexity and many layers that modern research is slowly beginning to understand.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bigger-picture-beyond-one-spice">Bigger picture beyond one spice</h2>



Many people might think that dealing with osteoarthritis means only focusing on medical interventions. While there are times when more traditional approaches are necessary, everyday foods matter. 



Something as common as oregano might add some comfort, alongside other known strategies. Small changes in daily meals, along with guidance from health professionals, might offer a sense of relief. 



The point here is not to claim oregano is a miracle fix but to remember that many details in what people eat can add up. 



They might consider talking with their doctors, doing their own research, and trying simple steps before giving up hope.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-considering-a-gentle-steady-approach">Considering a gentle, steady approach</h2>



The idea that an herb that many people sprinkle on their pizza or pasta could have additional benefits may sound surprising. It might make some rethink their kitchen shelves.



Adjusting habits, paying attention to what is on the plate, and being open to new information might encourage people to view their health through a slightly different lens. 



No one should expect dramatic changes overnight. Instead, they might view healing as a process of learning.



Foods like oregano may bring subtle shifts and, over time, these shifts can matter more than many realize. Even small amounts can play a role, especially when combined with other lifestyle adjustments.



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This herb helps reduce and prevent joint pain from arthritis

Many people experience everyday struggles when they cannot move as...

We are all exposed to glyphosate, a chemical found in many herbicides. Glyphosate is widely used in crop farming to reduce the presence of unwanted weeds. 



Previous research has shown that this toxin can cross into brain tissue, but the effects have not been well studied.



New research on mice has revealed that even minimal levels of glyphosate are associated with cognitive changes in brain function. 



The study sheds light on the potential risks&nbsp;this pervasive chemical&nbsp;may pose&nbsp;to brain health at a time when dementia and Alzheimer's disease are affecting more and more people.



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



Herbicides are chemicals designed to kill weeds and other unwanted plants, making them a staple tool for farmers, gardeners, and landscapers alike. 



There are different types of herbicides, each targeting specific kinds of weeds. Some are broad-spectrum, wiping out a wide range of plants, while others are selective, focusing on particular species without harming the crops. 



This versatility makes herbicides incredibly useful for maintaining gardens and agricultural fields efficiently.



However, herbicides aren’t without their downsides. Overusing or misusing these chemicals can lead to environmental issues, such as harming beneficial insects, contaminating water sources, and reducing biodiversity. 



Additionally, some weeds can develop resistance to herbicides, making them harder to control over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-herbicides-and-brain-health">Herbicides and brain health</h2>



The research, conducted by <a href="https://www.asu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arizona State University</a> in collaboration with the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen),&nbsp;uncovers some&nbsp;alarming effects of glyphosate on brain health.



Mice that were exposed to the herbicide developed troubling symptoms of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-mild-inflammation-can-majorly-damage-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain inflammation</a>,&nbsp;a condition linked to the early stages of neurodegenerative diseases.



"Our work contributes to the growing literature that highlights the brain's vulnerability to glyphosate,” said Ramon Velasquez, one of the researchers.



The study also revealed that these symptoms and signs of distress persisted long after exposure to the toxin ended, indicating the herbicide’s long-lasting impact on brain health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-prevalence-of-cognitive-decline">Rising prevalence of cognitive decline </h2>



The research team conducted experiments over 13 weeks, followed by a six-month recovery period. 



Even at low doses, close to what is considered acceptable for humans, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/glyphosate-disrupts-brood-care-in-bumblebees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glyphosate</a> caused significant harm in mice.



This included a persistent increase in inflammatory markers in the brain and blood, which remained elevated long after the exposure had ceased.



"Our goal is to identify environmental factors that contribute to the rising prevalence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ultra-processed-foods-directly-linked-cognitive-decline-stroke-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive decline</a> and neurodegenerative diseases in our society,” explained Velasquez. 



“By unveiling such factors, we can develop strategies to minimize exposures, ultimately improving the quality of life for the growing aging population.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-herbicide-byproduct-in-brain-tissue">Herbicide byproduct in brain tissue</h2>



Additionally, the researchers found that a glyphosate byproduct, namely aminomethylphosphonic acid, accumulated in brain tissue, further raising concerns about the herbicide’s long-term safety.



Glyphosate exposure in the mice was also&nbsp;associated&nbsp;with&nbsp;premature death, and anxiety-like behaviors, symptoms that were present long after&nbsp;the end of the recovery period.



"Given the increasing incidence of cognitive decline in the aging population, particularly in rural communities where exposure to glyphosate is more common due to large-scale farming, there is an urgent need for more basic research on the effects of this herbicide,” Velasquez emphasized.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unseen-battle-in-the-fields">An unseen battle in the fields</h2>



The Centers for Disease Research have emphasized the&nbsp;higher&nbsp;risks&nbsp;of glyphosate exposure associated with agricultural workers, farm laborers, and landscapers.



Apart&nbsp;from&nbsp;occupational exposure, the residues in&nbsp;foods and the widespread environmental presence pose risks to the general population.



"My hope is that our work drives further investigation into the effects of glyphosate exposure, which may lead to a reevaluation of its long-term safety and perhaps spark discussion about other prevalent toxins in our environment that may affect the brain,” said Samantha K. Bartholomew, first author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glyphosate-friend-or-foe">Glyphosate: Friend or foe?</h2>



Glyphosate is one of the most widely used herbicides in the world, famous for its role in controlling weeds in agricultural fields, gardens, and even urban areas. 



You might know it by its brand name, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weed-killer-roundup-causes-convulsions-in-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Roundup</a>, which farmers and gardeners spray to keep unwanted plants from stealing nutrients and space from their crops. 



Glyphosate works by targeting a specific enzyme that plants need to grow, effectively shutting down their ability to thrive. 



This makes it a go-to solution for many looking to maintain tidy landscapes or boost agricultural productivity without having to manually pull weeds all day.



While it is deemed safe by the <a href="https://www.epa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EPA</a>, the International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified glyphosate as “possibly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-we-breathing-cancer-causing-chemicals-in-our-cars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carcinogenic</a> to humans.” Studies, including this one, continue to question its overall safety.



Building on prior research, this study strengthens the evidence linking glyphosate exposure to an increased risk of neurodegenerative disorders. 



“These findings highlight that many chemicals we regularly encounter, previously considered safe, may pose potential health risks. However, further research is needed to fully assess the public health impact and identify safer alternatives,” said Patrick Pirrotte, associate professor with TGen and senior author of the paper.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reevaluating-herbicides-and-public-health">Reevaluating herbicides and public health</h2>



As glyphosate use continues to grow, particularly in large-scale farming, the study emphasizes the urgent need for stricter monitoring, further research, and potential reevaluation of the herbicide’s long-term safety.



The brain’s ability to heal may be formidable under certain circumstances, but exposure to harmful chemicals like glyphosate reveals vulnerabilities that cannot be ignored.



Addressing these risks proactively could play a critical role in reducing the incidence of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases in future generations. 



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://jneuroinflammation.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12974-024-03290-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Neuroinflammation</a>.



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Common weed-killing herbicide linked to brain issues and cognitive decline

We are all exposed to glyphosate, a chemical found in...

Scientists have identified a booster gene in a poplar species that can help certain plants grow exponentially taller and produce more plant matter. 



They found this gene after studying trees grown in different environments and noticed big differences in how quickly they sprouted up. 



The gene, which they named Booster, caught their eye with its unusual origins and its direct link to stronger growth and better <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-cells-capable-of-photosynthesis-created-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">use of sunlight</a>.



The gene can boost tree height by about 30% in field conditions and by as much as 200% in a greenhouse setting, which signals a possible route toward healthier, more productive plants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-plants-booster-gene">Finding plants' Booster gene</h2>



The study was led in part by Stephen Long at the <a href="https://illinois.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois</a> Urbana-Champaign and Jerry Tuskan at <a href="https://www.ornl.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oak Ridge National Laboratory</a>.



“This discovery could be a game-changer in terms of a big stimulation of photosynthesis and plant productivity," explained Stephen Long.



They focused on Populus trichocarpa, also known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genetically-engineered-wood-poplar-cottonwood-trees-store-more-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black cottonwood</a>, which grows from Baja California up into northern Canada. 



This species is often considered a promising candidate for producing biofuels and other useful materials. 



It was here that the researchers found Booster, a chimeric gene that emerged from several genetic pieces combined into one.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-did-the-booster-gene-come-from">Where did the Booster gene come from?</h2>



Booster developed as a combination of three originally separate genetic sequences. 



One came from a bacterium living in the tree’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-leaves-send-signals-to-their-roots-on-dry-days-telling-them-to-keep-digging-deeper-for-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">root zone</a>, one from an ant associated with a fungus that infects the tree, and one from the large subunit of a protein called Rubisco. 



Rubisco plays a key role in capturing carbon dioxide during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-to-life-on-earth-photosynthesis-begins-on-the-quantum-level-with-a-single-photon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis</a>. When the team encouraged poplar trees to express Booster more strongly, the results were striking. 



The trees showed up to 62% more Rubisco content, about a 25% increase in net leaf carbon dioxide uptake, as much as 37% taller growth in field tests, 88% more stem volume, and, under controlled greenhouse conditions, heights up to 200% taller. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/plants_boost-gene_scientists_Biruk-Feyissa_Wellington-Muchero_ORNL_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/plants_boost-gene_scientists_Biruk-Feyissa_Wellington-Muchero_ORNL_1s.webp" alt="In this photo from July 2024, ORNL’s Biruk Feyissa, left, holds a five-month-old poplar tree expressing high levels of the Booster gene, while then-colleague Wellington Muchero holds a tree of the same age with lower expression of the gene. Credit: Genevieve Martin/ORNL, U.S. Dept. of Energy" class="wp-image-1953077"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">In this photo from July 2024, ORNL’s Biruk Feyissa, left, holds a five-month-old poplar tree expressing high levels of the Booster gene, while then-colleague Wellington Muchero holds a tree of the same age with lower expression of the gene. Credit: Genevieve Martin/ORNL, U.S. Dept. of Energy</figcaption></figure>



Testing the same gene in Arabidopsis, a small flowering plant, increased its biomass and improved its seed output by 50%. 



“Conserved chimeric genes such as Booster are often disregarded as non-functional, evolutionary artifacts that no longer influence plant processes. But here we proved just the opposite," explained ORNL’s Biruk Feyissa.



"Our molecular and physiological validation confirmed that Booster <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-photosynthesis-could-transform-power-generation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">enhances photosynthesis</a> so that plants perform better under steady and fluctuating light conditions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-any-of-this-matter">Why does any of this matter?</h2>



Both black cottonwood and Arabidopsis belong to a group known as C3 plants. This group includes well-known food crops such as soybeans, rice, wheat, and oats. 



If Booster works similarly in these other plants, then farmers might achieve higher production without needing more land, water, or fertilizer. 



“Growing high-yielding, perennial bioenergy crops on marginal lands unsuitable for conventional agriculture can help us meet rising demand for liquid biofuels for hard-to-electrify sectors like aviation," noted Tuskan.



Scientists are now looking at putting these findings to the test in various places over longer periods. By trying Booster out in different environments, they can see how well it holds up and what kind of results it delivers over the long haul. 



“The discovery opens up a new avenue of scientific thinking. We tend to think of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/revealing-the-secrets-of-photosynthesis-through-pep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis</a> as a difficult-to-improve process," Tuskan continued. 



But in fact, the molecular machinery surrounding photosynthesis has continued to evolve as plants adapted to their environment.



In this case, the exchange of DNA with associated organisms changed a biological process in a fundamental way.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-screening-and-genetic-insights">Screening and genetic insights</h2>



For years, scientists at CBI studied <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/should-we-cut-down-all-the-oak-trees-a-disturbing-discovery-makes-this-question-plausible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">poplar trees</a> as a steady source of plant material that does not compete directly with food crops. 



They carried out a genome-wide association study, collecting samples from around 1,500 wild trees and examining their genetic makeup. 



They identified over 28 million single nucleotide polymorphisms to help pinpoint genes related to growth, carbon and nitrogen content, lignin, and more efficient water use. 



From there, they looked for genes involved in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/details-photosynthesis-water-viewed-atomic-level-cryo-microscope/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthetic quenching</a>, a key process in handling changes in sunlight. 



Scientists at CABBI tested poplar in trial gardens in Davis, California. Molecular analysis then showed that Booster linked to genes that influence how plants manage energy flow in changing light conditions. 



Researchers used many state-of-the-art technology resources, benefiting from large-scale screening techniques that allowed them to measure physical traits rapidly and accurately.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-for-booster-and-plant-genes">What's next for Booster and plant genes?</h2>



To sum it all up, this discovery demonstrates how close teamwork across institutions can help uncover useful genetic traits that might have gone unnoticed. 



With ongoing support from the Department of Energy’s Biological and Environmental Research Program, these centers will explore Booster’s potential across a wide range of conditions and plant species. 



There is interest in seeing if similar results appear in other crops important for the economy and energy production.



If efforts continue and produce steady success, Booster could provide a simple way to improve plant growth. 



More productive plants that use resources efficiently would help meet increasing global food demands without straining existing farmland, and that would, quite literally, change everything.



-----



This work comes from researchers at two Department of Energy Bioenergy Research Centers: the Center for Bioenergy Innovation (<a href="https://cbi.ornl.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CBI</a>) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (<a href="https://cabbi.bio/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CABBI</a>) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1534580724006671?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Developmental Cell</a>.



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Huge discovery: 'Booster' gene makes plants and trees grows 200 percent taller

Scientists have identified a booster gene in a poplar species...

When you think about tropical landscapes, the first image that springs to mind is probably of picturesque, sun-drenched beaches adorned with coconut palms. 



For centuries, these trees have been interwoven with human lives and cultures across the Pacific Ocean. The coconut palm is commonly referred to as the "Tree of Life."



Recent research, however, has highlighted the profound impact that centuries of colonial plantation farming have had on these iconic trees – transforming them from symbols of life to mere cash crops for the production of coconut oil.



A research team from <a href="https://www.ucsb.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Santa Barbara</a> and The Nature Conservancy has created the first comprehensive map of the uncharted footprint of coconut palm agriculture, scattered across Pacific atolls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coconut-palms-and-sustainability-challenges">Coconut palms and sustainability challenges </h2>



Michael Burnett, the lead author of the study, emphasized the importance of the research. "Coconut oil used to be essential to atoll economies, but today most coconut palm plantations are abandoned and overgrown."



The research findings raise urgent concerns: over half of the tree cover on these low islands is now taken up by coconut palms, leaving formerly widespread native broadleaf trees only small portions of their natural range.



The implications of these changes are far-reaching. According to Burnett, the replacement of broadleaf forests with coconut monocrops has been linked to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/groundwater-depletion-is-accelerating-but-it-is-not-inevitable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">groundwater depletion</a>, declining seabird populations, and adverse impacts on adjacent coral reefs.



The research suggests an urgent need to understand and confront the sustainability challenges posed by these monocultures for Pacific atoll communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unprecedented-rate-of-deforestation">Unprecedented rate of deforestation</h2>



The rate of deforestation linked to coconut palm monocultures surpasses the relative rate associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-islands-can-counteract-biodiversity-loss-in-oil-palm-plantations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oil palm</a> production in other parts of the world.



For instance, while 10.8% of Borneo's land had been converted to oil palm monocrops by 2015, coconut palms now cover a staggering 58.3% of the total forested area of the mapped atolls.



Furthermore, the paper reveals that 51.2% of these coconut canopies are remnants of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-in-oil-palm-plantations-are-key-to-conservation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plantation agriculture</a>, indicative of drastic ecological changes. 



Despite many plantations being abandoned in recent decades, coconut palms still outcompete native broadleaf trees for canopy area.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-opportunity-for-ecosystem-restoration">An opportunity for ecosystem restoration </h2>



Study co-author Alex Wegmann, lead scientist for the Nature Conservancy’s Island Resilience Strategy, noted that this situation presents opportunities.



“As the world comes to terms with tradeoffs associated with converting primary forest to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/abandoned-croplands-could-boost-food-security-and-climate-mitigation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">croplands</a>, we should not ignore atoll forests and the opportunity to recover these dynamic, resilient systems," said Wegmann.



The paper suggests that coconut plantations could be used for ecosystem restoration while striking the balance between cultural heritage and environmental stewardship. 



Elizabeth Terk is the Micronesia conservation director for The Nature Conservancy. She pointed out that restoring abandoned copra plantations on atolls to native forests offer invaluable ecological benefits, such as biodiversity recovery and climate resilience. 



"Striking a balance between cultural heritage and environmental stewardship is essential for a sustainable future. Mapping the extent of copra plantations on atolls is a crucial step for informed decision-making," said Terk. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-converting-abandoned-coconut-plantations">Converting abandoned coconut plantations </h2>



The paper’s vegetation maps provide a valuable tool for Pacific atoll communities, helping them to visualize the state of their forests. 



Initiatives like converting abandoned coconut plantations to native forests and restoring seabird colonies could be promising ways to confront the accelerating impacts of climate change.



"These maps are part of a growing body of science exploring the numerous opportunities for conservation and resilience on atolls. We hope they will help atoll communities chart their own futures in an era of global change," concluded Burnett. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-local-communities-and-sustainable-solutions">Local communities and sustainable solutions</h2>



The path to restoring Pacific atoll ecosystems requires the active involvement of local communities. These islands have long-standing cultural and economic ties to coconut palms, making collaboration essential for creating sustainable solutions.



Community-led initiatives, such as agroforestry practices that integrate coconut palms with native species, could provide a balanced approach to land use.



Educational programs can also play a crucial role, helping residents understand the ecological impacts of monocultures and the benefits of restoring native <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/changes-in-vegetation-are-a-key-driver-of-global-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a>. 



By involving local leaders and incorporating traditional ecological knowledge, restoration projects can be tailored to align with cultural values while addressing environmental challenges. 



Empowering these communities can lead to solutions that are both practical and enduring, building resilience in the face of global environmental change.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/ad8c66" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Research Letters</a>.



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Coconut palms threaten Pacific island ecosystems

When you think about tropical landscapes, the first image that...

The discovery of a unique relationship between insects and plants has solved a longstanding mystery. For over a century, botanists have wondered how the tiny seeds of Balanophora were dispersed, and who the pollinators were - considering their less-than-attractive appearance and yeasty smell.



Researchers at Kobe University have revealed that insect species, such as ants and crickets, can both pollinate and disperse seeds for plants. This highlights the remarkable role that insects play in our ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-balanophora-s-reproduction">Mystery of Balanophora’s reproduction</h2>



Deep within the moist, shaded understories of the subtropical forests of Shimoshima Island in Japan, parasitic plants known as Balanophora thrive. 



These plants, which depend on the roots of other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-boost-plant-evolution-in-surprising-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> for sustenance, have puzzled botanists. Among them, Balanophora subcupularis stands out for its dull colors and yeasty smell, contrasting with its bright red relatives that attract birds and mammals for seed dispersal.



Traditionally, researchers suggested that these plants relied on wind to disperse their seeds. However, the windless nature of these forest understories made this hypothesis unlikely. 



Moreover, the mechanisms of pollination for B. subcupularis remained unclear, as its unremarkable appearance seemed to dissuade typical pollinators like bees.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-relying-on-insects-for-pollination">Plants relying on insects for pollination</h2>



<a href="https://www.kobe-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe University</a> botanist Suetsugu Kenji, who specializes in understanding the interactions between parasitic plants&nbsp;and their surrounding ecosystems, took on the challenge of uncovering the secrets of B. subcupularis.



Suetsugu and his team dedicated over 100 hours to observing the plants and capturing tens of thousands of automated nighttime photographs during the flowering and fruiting stages. 



These observations were complemented by animal exclusion experiments and seed feeding trials to confirm which animals contributed to pollination and seed dispersal.



The results, published in two consecutive papers in the journal&nbsp;Ecology, revealed a surprising truth: ants and camel crickets are the primary pollinators of B. subcupularis. These insects, drawn by the plant’s pollen and nectar, also consume the fleshy seed-bearing leaves, effectively dispersing its seeds.



"It is well known that many plants rely on insects for pollination, although it’s rare for ants and crickets. Also, many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/herbicides-are-disrupting-plant-insect-interactions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> use birds and mammals to distribute their fruits, and again it’s very unusual that crickets or other tiny arthropods take over this role," noted Suetsugu.



"Even more striking, it is very rare for the same animal to perform both functions, and it is unique that the same invertebrates do so."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insects-dual-role-in-plant-pollination">Insects' dual role in plant pollination</h2>



Suetsugu believes the dual role of ants and crickets is influenced by ecological factors. 



"B. subcupularis blooms late in the year when many typical pollinators, such as bees, are less active. In addition, our study site is a small island at the northern edge of the plant’s distribution, which might contribute to the scarcity of pollinators and seed dispersers," explained Suetsugu.



The insects’ involvement in both pollination and seed dispersal likely evolved due to these environmental constraints, where traditional agents like birds, mammals, and bees are scarce. This rare adaptation underscores the resilience and ingenuity of nature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-plant-insect-relationships">Significance of plant-insect relationships</h2>



The findings extend beyond the reproduction of B. subcupularis. 



"This underscores the importance of invertebrates in plant reproduction and encourages us to look deeper into how these relationships evolve and what environmental factors drive such unique adaptations. More practically, our findings also contribute to conservation strategies for rare and endangered plants like Balanophora subcupularis," Suetsugu noted.



"Understanding their reliance on specific invertebrates for both pollination and seed dispersal helps inform habitat preservation efforts and the management of invertebrate populations, which are crucial for these plants’ survival."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-call-to-preserve-unique-ecosystems">Call to preserve unique ecosystems</h2>



This remarkable research on plant and insect interaction illuminates the intricate and often overlooked roles of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-leaf-eating-insects-have-a-huge-impact-on-forests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invertebrates in ecosystems</a>.



The study calls for greater attention to the conservation of such species, which play vital roles in maintaining biodiversity. By protecting the habitats and populations of these tiny but significant creatures, we can ensure the survival of plants like B. subcupularis and the ecosystems they support.



The story of ants and crickets aiding Balanophora subcupularis highlights a rare and remarkable partnership, providing a glimpse into nature’s adaptability and interconnectedness. 



As researchers like Suetsugu continue to unveil these secrets, the importance of conserving even the smallest actors in our ecosystems becomes undeniably clear.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ecy.4465" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology</a>.



Image Credit: Hashiwaki Hiromu



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Parasitic plant has some unlikely allies for pollination and seed dispersal

The discovery of a unique relationship between insects and plants...

Brazilian scientists have made a fascinating discovery about the history of maize, also known as corn. 



They've found traces of this ancient, partially domesticated plant in Brazil, which is farther from the crop's historic point of origin in Mexico than any other similar evidence. But the story doesn’t just end here.



The maize specimens discovered by the scientists were found hidden away in the Peruaçu Valley of Minas Gerais state, and they offer a fresh perspective on our understanding of the plant’s history.



The study was led by a group of dedicated researchers from the <a href="https://www5.usp.br/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of São Paulo</a> (USP) and the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA).



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



According to commonly accepted theory, maize was domesticated in Mexico by early farmers. 



When archeologists from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) conducted initial excavation work in the Peruaçu Valley back in 1994, they discovered maize cobs, straw, and seeds of partially <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/maize-plant-genetics-shape-root-health-and-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">domesticated maize</a>. They dismissed these as domesticated maize that simply hadn't grown properly, rather than imagining that it was still in the process of domestication.



The current research findings indicate that the crop may have been exported before being fully domesticated, and may actually have undergone the final stages of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/domesticating-plants-permanently-alters-their-microbiome/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">domestication</a> in South America - far from its Mexican origins.



This controversial idea was first proposed in 2018. Back then, genetic studies on living plants gave a hint that our age-old understanding of maize history might need a revision.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-the-dots-with-genetic-evidence">Connecting the dots with genetic evidence</h2>



The magical world of genetics brought these forgotten specimens from 1994 back into the limelight.



A re-examination of the old material revealed traits that tied it to the ancestral plant, Teosinte, which was native to Mexico, and was first domesticated around 9,000 years ago. This ancient plant reportedly arrived in southwestern Amazonia about 6,000 years ago.



The current findings have been published in the journal Science Advances. Study lead author Flaviane Malaquias Costa was part of the research team while she was a PhD candidate and postdoctoral researcher at Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture (ESALQ-USP).



“These samples were initially considered specimens of domesticated maize that had failed to grow sufficiently," said Malaquias Costa.



"However, in light of genetic evidence that the final domestication process may have occurred in South America, we analyzed the material again and found several traits shared with the ancestral plant from which maize originated in Mexico 9,000 years ago and that arrived in southwestern Amazonia 6,000 years ago."



Peruaçu Valley is approximately 4,400 miles (7,150 km) from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blue-agave-and-bats-face-a-sustainability-crisis-in-mexico/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mexico</a>, and the samples found there exhibit the most primitive characteristics ever discovered at such a distance from maize’s center of origin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timeline-of-maize-arrival-in-brazil">Timeline of maize arrival in Brazil</h2>



Though there were human populations in Peruaçu Valley around 10,000 to 9,000 years ago, maize seems to have arrived in the region relatively late - around 1,500 years ago.



Interestingly, the samples dated back to between 1,010 and 500 years ago, and displayed traits of partial domestication. This time period mostly precedes the arrival of Europeans in South America.



Thus, it seems that the local Indigenous communities completed the domestication of this maize species through their relentless efforts in selecting, managing, and stabilizing traits that eventually formed today’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-use-genomic-testing-to-trace-the-history-of-corn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">South American maize</a> varieties.



Courtesy of Fábio de Oliveira Freitas, a researcher at EMBRAPA Genetic Resources and Biotechnology in Brasília, this piece of information becomes another chapter of the maize saga.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-family-ties">Identifying family ties</h2>



Further insights gained from the Peruaçu Valley samples revealed their close relation to the Entrelaçado variety of maize from the Brazilian states of Rondônia and Acre.



According to Elizabeth Ann Veasey, a professor at ESALQ-USP, this variety originated in South America through the selection of various other maize populations.



She extended this point by drawing parallels between the ancient traces and extant varieties discovered during the study in several locations across Brazil and Uruguay.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-journey-from-wild-to-domesticated-maize">The journey from wild to domesticated maize</h2>



The transition from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/billions-of-people-depend-on-wild-plant-and-animal-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wild plant</a>, Teosinte, to domesticated maize is marked by certain morphological traits. One such marker is the number of grain rows.



While Teosinte, the wild grass native to Mexico that was first domesticated around 9,000 years ago, typically has fewer than eight rows of seeds per ear (cob), modern South American maize varieties grown in lowland areas have eight to 26 rows.



On the other hand, the ancient samples from Peruaçu Valley showcase between four and six rows per ear.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-the-science-the-cultural-impact">Beyond the science: The cultural impact</h2>



Such a monumental discovery not only reshapes our scientific understanding but also holds a significant cultural value. The Peruaçu Valley is home to some of the rarest cave art in the world that features crops.



Besides being depicted on the cave walls, maize was discovered in buried baskets, possibly as offerings for the dead.



Furthermore, there are significant geopolitical implications. If it is established that the final domestication of maize took place in Brazil, these genetic resources can no longer be considered exotic.



This will necessitate conservation efforts and discussions regarding property rights in international treaties.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adn146" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Maize samples found in Brazil may rewrite the crop's history

Brazilian scientists have made a fascinating discovery about the history...

Potatoes could hold the key to addressing the challenges posed by frequent and intense heatwaves, which are becoming more common in different regions of the world. 



These resilient crops are crucial in safeguarding global food supplies as climate change continues to disrupt traditional farming practices.



"We need to produce crops that can withstand more frequent and intense heatwave events if we are going to meet the population’s need for food in regions most at risk from reduced yields due to global warming," said Katherine Meacham-Hensold, scientific manager for the Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE) project at the University of Illinois.



Working under the auspices of this project, the research team has engineered a potato that not only withstands extreme weather conditions but also thrives in them, promising greater food security for many.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-promise-of-a-climate-ready-potato">The promise of a climate-ready potato</h2>



While studying the effects of global warming on crop yields, Meacham-Hensold and her team found that this new breed of potato could yield a 30% increase in tuber mass under <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/once-in-a-century-heatwave-may-soon-happen-every-other-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heatwave</a> conditions compared to its conventional counterparts.



"The 30% increase in tuber mass observed in our field trials shows the promise of improving photosynthesis to enable climate-ready crops," she said.



The team operates under the banner of RIPE, an international research project that seeks to address global food scarcity by enhancing the ability of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tackling-malnutrition-new-satellite-can-monitor-nutrients-in-crops-from-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food crops</a> to convert the sun's energy into edible matter.



Since its inception in 2017, RIPE has garnered support from numerous entities such as the Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation, the Foundation for Food &amp; Agriculture Research, and the U.K. Foreign, Commonwealth &amp; Development Office.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-silent-enemy-photorespiration">The silent enemy: Photorespiration</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-defy-climate-change-through-acclimation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Photorespiration</a> is a core issue that reduces crop yields. It refers to an energy-consuming process wherein the plant enzyme Rubisco, which is responsible for fixing carbon dioxide into organic molecules, reacts more readily with oxygen than with carbon dioxide when the ambient temperatures are high. 



This challenge is particularly pronounced in crops like potatoes, where high temperatures can significantly hinder growth and productivity. 



The reaction results in the production of a harmful byproduct called glycolate that, if not dealt with, can severely impair the plant's growth.



"Photorespiration is a large energy cost for the plant," explained Meacham-Hensold. "It takes away from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/local-food-production-is-undervalued-in-the-context-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food production</a> as energy is diverted to metabolizing the toxin. Our goal was to reduce the amount of wasted energy by bypassing the plant’s original photorespiratory pathway.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potatoes-that-can-thrive-in-a-heatwave">Potatoes that can thrive in a heatwave</h2>



By introducing two new genes into the potato's DNA, the team managed to improve photosynthetic efficiency.



These genes, glycolate dehydrogenase and malate synthase, help the plant metabolize the toxin in the chloroplast (the leaf compartment responsible for photosynthesis), eliminating the need for energy-draining transfer of the toxin to other parts of the cell.



This solution led to substantial growth gains in the test crops. The benefits of these modifications were further intensified under heatwave conditions, making these crops more resilient to the changing climate.



On a testing field in the year 2022, during a heatwave that consistently broke over 95°F (35°C), the modified potatoes yielded 30% more tubers than the control group.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crops-that-resist-global-warming">Crops that resist global warming</h2>



Notably, the team's genetic engineering did not compromise the nutritional quality of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crop-yields-have-grown-steadily-over-the-last-six-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crop yield</a>. 



"Food security is not just about the amount of calories that can be produced but we must also consider the quality of the food,” noted Don Ort, the Robert Emerson Professor of Plant Biology and Crop Sciences, and Deputy Director of the RIPE project.



While further multi-location field trials are needed to confirm the findings, the promising results in potatoes open the possibility of applying similar modifications to other tuber crops. These might include cassava, a staple food in some Sub-Saharan African countries that is expected to be heavily impacted by increasing global temperatures.



In conclusion, the research by scientists from the <a href="https://illinois.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois</a> presents a ray of hope in the battle against climate change.



By creating crops that not only resist the impacts of global warming but also thrive under them, we are taking steps toward a future where every table has food, and no one is left hungry.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcb.17595" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>.



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Crops of the future: Potatoes that thrive in heatwaves

Potatoes could hold the key to addressing the challenges posed...

We all rely on agriculture for our food, but the escalating climate crisis is placing increasing stress on the world’s crops.&nbsp;



Modern crop varieties, domesticated to maximize yield and harvest efficiency, lack the genetic flexibility to adapt to the environmental challenges now reshaping our planet.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-climate-resilient-crops-nbsp">Creating climate-resilient crops&nbsp;</h2>



As temperature extremes, erratic rainfall, and other climate-driven stressors reduce output, food supplies dwindle and prices rise. Converting more land to agriculture is unsustainable, so we must instead alter our crops to withstand the conditions we have created.



“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-and-agriculture-are-locked-in-a-destructive-feedback-loop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Agriculture</a> is highly vulnerable to climate change, and the intensity and frequency of extreme events is only going to increase,” said lead author Sergey Shabala, a biologist at the <a href="https://www.uwa.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Western Australia.</a> 



“Both sustainable agricultural production and global food security will be critically dependent on our ability to create climate-resilient crops.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interconnected-challenges-for-crops">Interconnected challenges for crops</h2>



The current <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-food-system-must-change-if-nations-hope-to-reduce-greenhouse-gas-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global food system</a> relies heavily on monocultures and intensive use of fertilizers. While this has met the world’s food demands for decades, it is now recognized as environmentally harmful. 



Fertilizer production damages ecosystems, and their application on fields leads to runoff that pollutes waterways.&nbsp;



Meanwhile, the climate crisis reduces the yield of key staple crops by exposing them to harsher conditions. If high temperatures do not kill plants, they still lower yields, prompting farmers to rely on irrigation water that often contains more salt than ideal freshwater resources.



This higher salt content in irrigated soils reduces the productivity of most crops. Moreover, flooding caused by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-tens-of-millions-of-people-love-watching-videos-of-extreme-weather-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme weather events</a> leaves roots submerged in low-oxygen conditions, further diminishing yields. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-achieving-a-sustainable-diet-nbsp">Achieving a sustainable diet&nbsp;</h2>



These interconnected problems underscore the complexity of achieving a sustainable diet in the face of scientific, social, and political challenges.



“The problem of a sustainable diet has scientific, social, and political facets,” said Shabala. “A broader acceptance of novel technologies and a willingness to accept some cultural shifts is needed.”&nbsp;



“A good example may be <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-study-reveals-secrets-of-weedy-rice-invasion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rice</a>: it is a main staple food for a high percentage of the population, but many parts of the world may become unsuitable for its production. A switch to other, more resilient, crops may be needed, and I am not sure the public is ready to accept it.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-crops-that-can-cope">Creating crops that can cope</h2>



Many wild plants, including the ancestors and relatives of today’s staple crops, are inherently better equipped to handle environmental extremes. To help cultivated plants cope with the climate crisis, we need to bring these resilient traits back into domesticated species.



There are two main approaches to achieve this. The first is to introduce stress-resistance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-inspire-a-safer-method-of-editing-human-genes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genes</a> from closely related plants or reactivate dormant genes within existing crops. This approach seems straightforward, but transferring multiple traits into a single high-yield crop is challenging. 



The second approach involves domesticating entirely new species that are naturally resilient but produce less food initially. Adapting these wild plants to modern farming demands a careful and possibly lengthy process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uncertain-paths-and-public-resistance">Uncertain paths and public resistance</h2>



It remains unclear which strategy - gene introduction into established crops or domesticating wild species - will eventually prevail.&nbsp;



However, both approaches share certain requirements: cutting-edge gene-editing and precision breeding methods, backed by accurate cell-based phenotyping and, crucially, public acceptance of new crop varieties.



“One of the current challenges is to match recent scientific advances with public perception of new technologies,” cautioned Shabala.&nbsp;



“The issue is highly politicized and there are significant commercial interests involved. And due to a lack of specific knowledge, the general public cannot distinguish the subtle differences amongst various technologies, and relies on opinions in the media.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-embracing-change-for-a-sustainable-future">Embracing change for a sustainable future</h2>



Developing climate-resilient crops involves technological breakthroughs and social willingness to embrace them. Whether by gene-editing existing crops or domesticating new species, our success depends on navigating scientific, regulatory, and cultural hurdles.&nbsp;



The rising global population and the intensifying climate crisis leave us with no choice but to adapt our agriculture to these changing realities.



By investing in research, improving public understanding, and supporting innovation in both plant genetics and farming practices, we can move toward a future where climate-resilient crops ensure not only that we continue to feed everyone, but also that we do so sustainably in the world we have altered.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fsci.2024.1416023" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Science</a>.



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Creating resilient crops to cope with the climate crisis

We all rely on agriculture for our food, but the...

We are dependent on oxygen that is generated by miniscule planktonic creatures that live in the oceans. Scientists estimate that over 50% of the Earth's oxygen is produced by these tiny, drifting protists, plants and algae.



It is these microscopic oceanic organisms, even more than the tall tree outside your window, that are the unsung heroes of our planet. Marine plankton drive the Earth's carbon cycle and regulate the climate.



Plankton drifts with the ocean's currents and has a dual role in producing oxygen and storing carbon dioxide (CO2). This makes these organisms indispensable in maintaining the planet’s delicate balance.



A recent discovery has shed light on the intricate relationship between these planktonic life forms and one of the greatest challenges of our time - increasing atmospheric <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/met-office-2024-co2-levels-will-surpass-the-point-of-no-return/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CO2</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marine-plankton-and-carbon-storage">Marine plankton and carbon storage </h2>



Buried deep within the ocean's waters resides a near-invisible, yet vital organism - Trilobatus trilobus, a species of plankton that belongs to the group known as the formainifera. 



These tiny heroes sequester and store CO2 in their calcium carbonate shells through a process known as calcification.



This is the process whereby living organisms, like plankton, build hard, shell-like structures using calcium, carbon and oxygen from their surroundings. The protective "suits of armor" are made of a material similar to chalk or limestone.



Once the plankton expire, their shells sink to the seafloor, becoming long-term carbon storage facilities. This means that the huge task of CO2 storage is undertaken partially by these microscopic life forms.



Now, scientists from the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a> have explored this phenomenon in more detail and uncovered some fascinating insights.



Initially, research focused on how changes in ocean chemistry and acidification influence calcification. However, this study revealed that physical properties of the ocean, such as density, also play a crucial role in this complex process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-artful-adaptations-of-marine-plankton">The artful adaptations of marine plankton </h2>



What makes T. trilobus so remarkable? This planktonic species demonstrates an extraordinary ability to adapt its calcification process in response to environmental fluctuations, particularly to changes in ocean density and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-induced-changes-in-ocean-salinity-threaten-biodiversity-and-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salinity</a>.



These survival strategies ensure that the plankton can maintain buoyancy and thrive in varying conditions.



For example, when ocean density decreases due to freshwater influx from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-ice-caps-changing-earths-rotation-need-negative-leap-second/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">melting ice caps</a>, T. trilobus reduces the calcification rate, thus forming lighter shells that help to keep the individuals buoyant. 



This adjustment not only supports the survival of the microorganisms, but also affects ocean chemistry by leaving surface waters more alkaline. 



The increase in alkalinity enhances the ocean's ability to absorb even more CO2, illustrating the intricate relationship between these microscopic organisms and the planet’s carbon cycle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-unseen-impact-on-climate-change">The unseen impact on climate change</h2>



The adaptive behavior of T. trilobus has far-reaching implications for climate regulation. 



By modifying calcification in response to environmental changes, these plankton indirectly boost the ocean’s capacity to absorb CO2 and act as a natural mitigator of atmospheric carbon.



This dynamic process highlights the vital role of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-stress-causes-undetected-changes-in-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine ecosystems</a> in buffering the effects of climate change.



“Our findings demonstrate how planktonic foraminifera adapt their shell architecture to changes in seawater density. This natural adjustment, potentially regulating atmospheric chemistry for millions of years, underscores the complex interplay between marine life and the global climate system,” explained Dr. Stergios Zarkogiannis, the study's lead scientist.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-plankton-in-ocean-calcification">The role of plankton in ocean calcification</h2>



Dr. Zarkogiannis and his team explored the intricacies of T. trilobus shells, collected from deep-sea sediments along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.



Using advanced techniques like X-ray microcomputed tomography and shell trace element geochemistry, they linked variations in calcification to environmental changes, including salinity, density, and carbonate chemistry.



Their findings revealed that plankton produce lighter, thinner shells in equatorial waters and thicker, heavier shells in denser subtropical regions, illustrating how these tiny <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-organisms-may-adapt-to-climate-change-but-with-hidden-costs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">organisms adapt</a> to their surroundings.



“Although planktonic organisms may passively float in the water column, they are far from passive participants in the carbon cycle. By actively adjusting their calcification to control buoyancy and ensure survival, these organisms also regulate the ocean’s ability to absorb CO2," said Dr. Zarkogiannis.



This dual role underscores their profound importance in understanding and addressing climate challenges."



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



While this study illuminates the adaptive capabilities of T. trilobus, further research is needed to determine whether buoyancy regulation influences calcification in other marine organisms. 



By continuing to unravel the intricate ways in which plankton interact with their environment, scientists can better understand - and perhaps leverage - their role in mitigating climate change.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsos.240179" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Society Open Science</a>.



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Marine plankton are key players in carbon cycle regulation

We are dependent on oxygen that is generated by miniscule...

As climate change accelerates, it poses a serious threat to our global food supply. Scientists are raising alarms about the potentially devastating consequences. 



Without rapid changes to how we develop climate-resilient crops, we could face widespread food shortages, famine, mass migration, and global instability. 



An international team of researchers, as reported in Trends in Plant Science, calls for urgent action to avert this crisis.



"We're in a race against time," said Silvia Restrepo, president of the Boyce Thompson Institute (BTI) and co-author of the paper.



"The crops we depend on for food are increasingly struggling to survive extreme weather, from heat waves to droughts and floods. Meanwhile, our current approaches to developing tougher, more resilient crops simply aren't moving fast enough."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-impacting-food-supply">Climate change impacting food supply </h2>



The challenges facing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-you-eat-can-literally-change-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agriculture</a> are more complex than ever. Crops are not only battling higher temperatures but are also dealing with more frequent pest outbreaks and diseases. 



Even when plants survive these challenges, climate change can reduce their nutritional value. 



The situation is further complicated by agriculture itself contributing to about 26% of global greenhouse gas emissions, creating a vicious cycle that accelerates climate change.



The <a href="https://btiscience.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BTI</a> researchers outline five key recommendations to tackle this urgent crisis:



<ol start="1" class="wp-block-list">
<li>Create global research initiatives that unite scientists from developed and developing nations to share resources and expertise. </li>



<li>Study plants in real-world conditions, beyond the confines of controlled laboratory environments. </li>



<li>Forge stronger partnerships between scientists and farmers to ensure practical solutions. </li>



<li>Build public trust in new crop development technologies to increase acceptance. </li>



<li>Streamline regulations&nbsp;to speed up the implementation of innovative agricultural solutions.</li>
</ol>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-funding-gaps-and-neglected-regions">Funding gaps and neglected regions</h2>



Despite the crucial role agriculture plays in human survival, only about 4% of global climate funding - roughly $35 billion annually - goes toward developing climate-resilient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-food-day-fighting-global-hunger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food systems</a>.



What’s even more alarming is that most of this funding focuses on large-scale farming in developed nations, leaving smaller farms and developing countries behind. 



This imbalance is exacerbating both climate challenges and the global food supply crisis, leaving vulnerable regions at greater risk.



"We need to completely rethink how we approach this challenge," said study co-author Andrew Nelson, an associate professor at BTI.



"Instead of starting in the lab and hoping solutions work in the field, we should begin by understanding farmers' real-world challenges and then work backward to develop practical solutions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-resilience-through-collaboration">Building resilience through collaboration</h2>



Success will demand unprecedented collaboration among scientists, farmers, policymakers, and the public. 



It will also require making new technologies accessible to all regions, particularly in the Global South, where climate impacts are felt most severely.



This global collaboration could help prevent a worsening crisis in agriculture and improve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-predict-the-chaotic-response-of-crops-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food</a> security and nutrition worldwide.



The experts emphasize that the time for incremental changes has passed. Rapid and decisive action is required to implement their five recommendations. 



Only by building resilient agricultural systems can we hope to secure our food supply in the face of ongoing climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-international-summit-on-plant-resilience">International summit on plant resilience</h2>



The group of 21 co-authors from nine countries formed after the First International Summit on Plant Resilience, organized by the Plant Resilience Institute. 



The summit, held earlier this year, featured Michelle Heck as the keynote speaker. Heck, an adjunct professor at BTI and <a href="https://www.cornell.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell University</a> and Research Molecular Biologist at USDA-ARS, spoke about her innovative research on preventing citrus greening disease.



The summit aimed to promote global collaboration by bringing together leading plant scientists from diverse disciplines. The goal? Establishing plant resilience research as a cornerstone of climate change solutions.



Another summit is already planned for 2026, signaling the importance and urgency of continued efforts to fight climate threats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-our-food-supply-from-climate-change">Protecting our food supply from climate change</h2>



As climate change continues to accelerate, our food systems face an uncertain future. 



Addressing these issues will require collaboration across borders, new technology, and a fresh perspective on solving real-world agricultural problems.



The five recommendations outlined by the researchers are a roadmap that could lead to a more resilient and secure food system - but only if we act decisively.



The time for half-measures has passed; the world must come together to ensure a stable food supply for future generations.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/trends/plant-science/abstract/S1360-1385(24)00302-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trends in Plant Science</a>.



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We are in a race against time to save our food supply from climate change

As climate change accelerates, it poses a serious threat to...

Every year on December 5, we turn our attention to the soil beneath our feet - the essential foundation of life on our planet. World Soil Day is an international event dedicated to raising awareness about the critical importance of healthy soils for sustaining life on Earth.&nbsp;



Established by the <a href="https://www.fao.org/home/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization</a> (FAO), this day highlights the role of soil in providing essential ecosystem services, including food production and climate regulation.&nbsp;



World Soil Day also draws attention to the alarming rate of soil degradation caused by human activities.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-theme-of-world-soil-day">Theme of World Soil Day</h2>



Each year, World Soil Day revolves around a specific theme to address the biggest soil-related challenges. Past themes have included combating soil salinization, preventing erosion, and promoting soil biodiversity.&nbsp;



The theme for World Soil Day 2024, "Caring for soils: Measure, monitor, manage," is focused on ways to promote soil health.&nbsp;



This theme highlights the vital importance of monitoring soils and collecting accurate data to inform <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-footprint-a-new-frontier-in-sustainable-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable management practices</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-is-soil-important">Why is soil important?</h2>



Soil is a fundamental resource that supports life on Earth in countless ways. It provides the foundation for nearly all terrestrial ecosystems by acting as the medium for plant growth, supplying nutrients, water, and oxygen essential for vegetation.&nbsp;



This vegetation, in turn, forms the base of food chains and provides resources for humans and animals. Healthy soil is essential for the productivity of crops that feed billions of people worldwide.



Beyond its role in food production, soil acts as a natural water filter, absorbing rainfall and replenishing groundwater while removing contaminants.&nbsp;



Furthermore, soil supports human infrastructure, providing a stable foundation for buildings, roads, and other structures.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-healthy-soil">Benefits of healthy soil</h2>



Healthy soil is the foundation of environmental and human well-being, offering a wide range of benefits. It acts as a natural reservoir of nutrients, supporting the growth of healthy plants.



Through its ability to store and filter water, healthy soil helps maintain water quality and reduces the risk of flooding by preventing surface runoff.&nbsp;



Soil also plays a vital role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organic-farming-practices-boost-soil-carbon-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon sequestration</a>, capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide, which helps to mitigate climate change.&nbsp;



Furthermore, soil is a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-pollution-is-harming-worms-and-bugs-to-an-unknown-degree/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> hotspot. It provides habitats for countless organisms, from microbes to insects, which contribute to nutrient cycling and plant health.&nbsp;



By promoting crop resilience, healthy soil reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Its ability to retain moisture leads to better crop yields - even in periods of drought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-growing-issue-of-soil-degradation-nbsp">The growing issue of soil degradation&nbsp;</h2>



Soil degradation refers to the deterioration of the soil’s quality and health, which can result from a variety of factors such as poor land management, deforestation, overgrazing, urbanization, and the excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.&nbsp;



This process leads to the loss of essential soil nutrients, reduced water retention, and the breakdown of soil structure.&nbsp;



As a consequence, the land becomes less productive, making it harder to grow crops and sustain plant life. Soil degradation also contributes to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-erosion-rates-have-exploded-in-the-midwestern-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">erosion</a>, where the topsoil is washed away, leading to further loss of fertile land.



Soil degradation is increasingly recognized as a growing issue across the globe. Over the past century, human activities such as agriculture, deforestation, urbanization, and unsustainable land management practices have significantly accelerated soil degradation.&nbsp;



The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that about one-third of the world’s land is moderately to severely degraded. As the global population continues to rise, the demand for food, water, and land increases, further straining the planet’s soil resources.&nbsp;



In many regions, soil erosion, desertification, and nutrient depletion have become widespread, impacting agricultural productivity and food security.&nbsp;



Climate change exacerbates the problem by altering rainfall patterns and increasing the frequency of extreme weather events, which can lead to further soil loss.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-world-soil-day">World Soil Day</h2>



The idea of dedicating a day to soil was first proposed by the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS) in 2002. This idea gained momentum with the support of Thailand’s King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who advocated for sustainable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-soils-produce-a-symphony-of-sounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil management</a> throughout his reign. 



In 2013, the UN General Assembly officially declared December 5 as World Soil Day to coincide with the king's birthday, honoring his lifelong commitment to soil conservation.



World Soil Day emphasizes that soil is a fragile resource, taking hundreds to thousands of years to regenerate naturally. It reminds us of the need for collective action to preserve soil health - from adopting sustainable agricultural practices to restoring degraded lands.&nbsp;



Through global participation, this occasion seeks to inspire individuals and communities to appreciate the critical role of soil in building a sustainable future.



Ultimately, healthy soil supports the balance of natural ecosystems and directly influences human health, livelihoods, and the planet's capacity to thrive.



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World Soil Day 2024: Protecting our planet's lifeline

Every year on December 5, we turn our attention to...

The distinctive scent of a forest on a warm summer day is partly due to terpenes, a group of organic compounds found in tree resins and essential oils. Among these, isoprene is the most abundant molecule, released by plants on a massive scale.&nbsp;



Global plant emissions are estimated at 500 to 600 million tons of isoprene annually, constituting about half of all gaseous organic compounds released by vegetation. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-rainforest-is-approaching-widespread-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon rainforest</a> was found to be responsible for over a quarter of these emissions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rainforest-emissions-beyond-the-canopy">Rainforest emissions beyond the canopy</h2>



Previously, scientists believed that isoprene in the Amazon basin broke down rapidly and did not reach higher layers of the atmosphere. This breakdown was attributed to hydroxyl radicals - highly reactive molecules formed near the ground during daylight hours - that destroy isoprene within hours.&nbsp;



“However, we have now established that this is only partly true,” said Joachim Curtius, an atmospheric scientist at the <a href="https://www.goethe-university-frankfurt.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goethe University Frankfurt</a> and lead author of a recent study.&nbsp;



“There are still considerable amounts of isoprene in the rainforest at night, and a substantial proportion of these molecules can be transported to higher atmospheric layers.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-thunderstorms-and-rainforest-emissions">Thunderstorms and rainforest emissions</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-tropical-thunderstorms-are-radioactive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tropical thunderstorms</a> play a pivotal role in elevating isoprene molecules. These storms act like vacuum cleaners, pulling isoprene to altitudes between 8 and 15 kilometers.&nbsp;



When the sun rises, hydroxyl radicals react with the isoprene molecules, but the frigid temperatures at these heights transform the compounds differently than near the ground.&nbsp;



The molecules combine with nitrogen oxides - produced by lightning during storms - to form clusters of aerosol particles just a few nanometers in size. Over time, these particles grow and serve as condensation nuclei for water vapor, significantly influencing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-trigger-cloud-formation-and-alter-weather-patterns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cloud formation</a> in tropical regions.



“We were able to shed light on these processes with the help of research flights that started two hours before sunrise and then continued through the day,” explained



Study senior author Jos Lelieveld is the director at the <a href="https://www.mpic.de/2285/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Chemistry in Mainz</a> and also head of the <a href="https://www.goethe-university-frankfurt.de/77173710/CAFE_Brazil" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CAFE-Brazil</a> research project.



For this project, an international research team collected data on the chemical processes in the atmosphere over the Amazon rainforest.&nbsp;



“We were able to detect considerable amounts of isoprene in the air flowing out of the thunderstorms at high altitude, from which new aerosol particles rapidly formed after several chemical reactions,” said Lelieveld.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-cloud-formation-over-oceans">Impact on cloud formation over oceans</h2>



Curtius and Lelieveld are also part of the CLOUD consortium, which involves over 20 research groups studying climate-relevant atmospheric chemical processes.&nbsp;



Using a specialized aerosol and cloud experiment chamber at <a href="https://home.cern/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CERN</a> in Geneva, the researchers replicated high-altitude atmospheric conditions to analyze sunlight-triggered reactions in detail.&nbsp;



“In this way, we were able to determine exactly the rate at which the aerosol particles form from the isoprene products,” explained atmospheric researcher Xu-Cheng He, who is in charge of the isoprene experiments.&nbsp;



“Interestingly, it emerged that even extremely small amounts of sulfuric acid and iodine oxoacids commonly present in the atmosphere are sufficient to accelerate the formation of the aerosol particles by a factor of 100. These molecules may, therefore, jointly influence marine cloud formation - a critically uncertain process in climate projections.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-distance-particle-transport-and-climate-models">Long-distance particle transport and climate models</h2>



Sulfuric acid forms in the atmosphere through reactions involving sulfur dioxide and hydroxyl radicals. Within the CLOUD experiment, the Frankfurt team measured extremely low concentrations of sulfuric acid, while the Mainz team focused on hydroxyl radicals.



The winds that prevail at high altitudes above the Amazon rainforest can transport the particles that form from isoprene up to thousands of kilometers away from the sources. This means they may influence cloud formation at great distances.&nbsp;



As clouds, depending on their type and height, both shield solar radiation and prevent heat from being radiated into space, they play a crucial role in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/costs-of-reversing-climate-change-multiply-after-a-tipping-point/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a>. The researchers, therefore, expect that their findings will contribute to improving climate models.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deforestation-s-dual-threat-to-climate">Deforestation’s dual threat to climate</h2>



The CAFE-Brazil project also underscores the environmental risks posed by continued deforestation in the Amazon rainforest.&nbsp;



“On the one hand, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2023-climate-change-report-record-high-temperatures-greenhouse-gases-sea-level-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gases</a> are released because the forest no longer stores carbon dioxide,” Curtius explained. “On the other hand, clearing the forest impacts both the water cycle and isoprene emissions, further propelling climate change.”



The research highlights the Amazon’s critical role in global climate dynamics and emphasizes the need for conservation efforts to mitigate its far-reaching impacts.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08192-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.&nbsp;



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Rainforest emissions shape the climate and cloud formation

The distinctive scent of a forest on a warm summer...

A comprehensive review has recently examined the scientific evidence surrounding coffee’s connection to healthy aging. The experts discovered that daily coffee consumption can add up to two years of healthy aging to our lives.



The percentage of people aged 65 and older worldwide is rapidly increasing, projected to grow from 10% in 2022 to 16% by 2050.&nbsp;



The paper highlights how regular, moderate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/caffeine-consumption-may-lower-the-risk-of-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee consumption</a> can be an essential component of a healthy and balanced lifestyle for this aging demographic.



For reference, the <a href="https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Food Safety Authority</a> considers daily caffeine intake of up to 400 mg - equivalent to three to five cups of coffee - to be moderate and safe for most adults. Pregnant and lactating women, however, should limit their intake to 200 mg per day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coffee-and-reduced-mortality-risk">Coffee and reduced mortality risk</h2>



Coffee, one of the most extensively studied commodities globally, has been linked in over 50 studies to a reduced risk of all-cause mortality.&nbsp;



The research indicates that coffee can play a measurable role in lowering the risk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-century-of-progress-in-the-fight-against-cardiovascular-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular disease</a>, cancer, respiratory diseases, cognitive decline, and frailty.



The review revealed that regular coffee consumption may extend healthy living by an average of 1.8 years. This suggests that coffee not only contributes to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-transfer-longevity-gene-hoping-to-extend-human-lifespan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">longevity</a> but also supports better health during those additional years. 



Unlike some nutritional interventions that may exhibit gender-specific effects, the increased healthy life expectancy associated with coffee consumption was observed in both men and women.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coffee-and-biological-aging-nbsp">Coffee and biological aging&nbsp;</h2>



Beyond reducing the risk of chronic diseases, the review delved into how coffee affects biological processes associated with aging.&nbsp;



These mechanisms include mitigating genomic instability - cell mutations that contribute to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-25-years-of-research-revealed-about-brain-aging/">aging</a> - and improving regular cellular function.&nbsp;



To ensure reliability, the review concentrated on studies involving humans and human tissue, providing a clearer picture of coffee’s health benefits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-coffee-in-healthy-aging-nbsp">The role of coffee in healthy aging&nbsp;</h2>



Traditional clinical advice for older adults has often suggested reducing or even avoiding coffee consumption. However, the review suggests these guidelines should be reconsidered in light of growing evidence supporting coffee’s positive role in healthy aging.



“Traditional clinical recommendations have at times overlooked coffee’s role in healthy aging, but with a strong research base around how regular consumption can potentially reduce some of the most chronic diseases facing society, it is likely time to re-evaluate these,” said lead author Rodrigo Cuhno, an expert in biochemistry at the <a href="https://www.uc.pt/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Coimbra</a>.



“We know that the world’s population is aging faster than ever, which is why it’s increasingly important to explore dietary interventions which may allow people to not only live longer but also healthier lives.”



While caffeine is coffee’s most recognized component, it also contains over 2,000 bioactive compounds. Among these, polyphenols offer antioxidant and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coffee-with-milk-has-powerful-anti-inflammatory-properties/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anti-inflammatory benefits</a>, which may help reduce neuroinflammation and regulate insulin sensitivity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unanswered-questions-and-future-research">Unanswered questions and future research</h2>



Although both caffeine and non-caffeine compounds in coffee contribute to extending healthy lifespan, much remains unknown about their exact mechanisms of action.&nbsp;



The authors emphasize the need for further research to uncover how these compounds work and identify individuals who may benefit the most from coffee’s unique properties.



“Our review underlines the role regular, moderate coffee consumption can play in mediating against the biological mechanisms which naturally slow or fail as we get older - triggering a range of potential health issues and comorbidities,” said Cuhna.&nbsp;



“And there is still room to understand more about exactly how these mechanisms work, as well as which individuals may be biologically predisposed to benefiting most from coffee’s interactions with them.”



This review underscores coffee's potential as a valuable dietary component for promoting healthy aging.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-perspective-on-coffee-consumption-nbsp">A new perspective on coffee consumption&nbsp;</h2>



The research not only sheds light on coffee’s contributions to reducing chronic disease risks but also highlights its broader biological benefits, paving the way for future research in this area.



“The conception of coffee consumption has undergone a profound modification, evolving from a noxious habit into a safe lifestyle actually preserving human health,” wrote the researchers.



“The last 20 years also provided strikingly consistent epidemiological evidence showing that the regular consumption of moderate doses of coffee attenuates all-cause mortality, an effect observed in over 50 studies in different geographic regions and different ethnicities.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1568163724003994" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aging Research Reviews</a>.



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Healthy aging: Drinking coffee can add years to your life

A comprehensive review has recently examined the scientific evidence surrounding...

Crop yields are at the heart of a pressing global issue: can we produce enough food to sustain an estimated 10 billion people by 2050?



Amid growing concerns of production stagnation, a new study has emerged, offering promising insights that bring a silver lining to an otherwise cloudy forecast.



The findings challenge the prevailing narrative of agricultural decline, instead highlighting a steady trajectory of growth over the last sixty years.



This revelation highlights the potential to address future food demands, provided we continue to innovate and adapt to evolving global challenges.



The research was conducted by scientists from the <a href="https://www.uidaho.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Idaho</a> and the World Bank.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-perspective-on-global-crop-yields">A new perspective on global crop yields</h2>



"Utilizing a comprehensive caloric-based index of production and yield for 144 crops, covering 98% of global agricultural land and food output, this paper reveals that, on an aggregate level, global yield growth - a vital indicator of agricultural productivity - has not slowed over the past six decades," wrote the study authors. 



The researchers noted that much of the growth in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increasing-plant-based-food-production-would-have-extremely-positive-impact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food production</a> over the past 60 years has been driven by technological advancements. This has led to the creation and widespread use of superior crop varieties.



In response to worrying claims of production growth leveling off, particularly in low and middle-income countries with surging populations, the authors provided a counter narrative.



"This steady growth equates to an annual increase of approximately 33 kilograms of wheat per hectare, highlighting continued productivity gains worldwide," said the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-challenges-for-food-security">Ongoing challenges for food security </h2>



However, the study is not all roses. The researchers caution that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-breaking-heat-is-threatening-wheat-and-the-global-food-supply/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global food supply</a>'s sustainability and affordability will continue to pose significant challenges for global food security.



It's essential to understand that observed slowdowns in specific crops or areas have been compensated by gains in others, reminding us that the issue is complex and multifaceted.



The concern becomes even more pertinent when considering the intensifying impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> and the increased demand for food due to population growth and income increase. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crop-yields-and-a-sustainable-food-supply">Crop yields and a sustainable food supply</h2>



Even though the overall global yield growth hasn't slowed, these factors will weigh heavily on our ability to secure a stable, affordable, and sustainable food supply for everyone.



The study matters because it offers a new perspective and brings a glimmer of hope to an otherwise grim picture.



It's a stepping stone with valuable implications for scientists and policymakers alike because it allows a more nuanced view of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-cut-agricultural-productivity-by-21-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agricultural productivity</a> across different countries and regions.



Still, the challenges are real and pressing. Therefore, it's essential to continue exploring, innovating, and implementing solutions that can ensure we sustainably feed the growing global population.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crop-diversity-and-agricultural-stability">Crop diversity and agricultural stability</h2>



The study emphasizes the role of crop diversity in maintaining global yield growth. By cultivating a wide range of crops that are adapted to varying climates and conditions, farmers worldwide have contributed to a steady increase in agricultural productivity.



This diversity acts as a buffer against localized crop failures, and ensures a stable food supply, even in the face of climate-related challenges.



Regions that adopt diverse agricultural practices often display increased resilience to external pressures, such as fluctuating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-influences-us-weather-patterns-ai-machine-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather patterns</a> and resource limitations.



This highlights the importance of continuing efforts to promote diverse agricultural systems, particularly in low and middle-income countries where populations are increasing rapidly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-crop-productivity-with-sustainability">Balancing crop productivity with sustainability</h2>



While the findings reveal sustained growth in global crop yields, they also point to a critical challenge: balancing increased productivity with sustainable practices. 



The intensive cultivation of high-yielding crops often requires significant inputs such as fertilizers, water, and energy, which raises concerns about environmental degradation and resource depletion.



Innovative agricultural technologies and practices are key to enhancing crop yields without compromising ecological balance. 



Approaches like precision agriculture, soil health monitoring, and the development of drought-resistant crop varieties are pivotal in achieving this balance. 



These strategies are essential to meeting future food demands while protecting the planet's ecosystems.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0313088" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



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Crop yields have grown steadily over the last six decades

Crop yields are at the heart of a pressing global...

Whales continue to astonish us with the surprises they reveal, and the most recent discovery is nothing short of extraordinary.



A comprehensive new study reveals that right whales have been underestimated in terms of their longevity. This discovery not only overturns long-standing beliefs but also highlights the remarkable resilience and mysterious nature of these marine giants.



These magnificent creatures, once thought to live only 70 to 80 years, are now known to surpass 130 years, with some nearing the age 150 - far outliving humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-right-whales-astonishing-lifespans">Right whales' astonishing lifespans</h2>



This incredible discovery surfaced in an in-depth study that painstakingly analyzed photos of individual whales spanning four decades. 



The researchers spotlighted two specific species - the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/southern-right-whales-have-shifted-their-foraging-grounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southern right whale</a>, found in the oceans below the equator, and the North Atlantic right whale, native to the Atlantic coast of North America.



The experts used the photographic data to build survivorship curves - a statistical tool similar to what is used by insurance companies - to calculate these remarkable lifespans.



The data revealed that Southern right whales can live for more than 130 years, with some speculated to reach the ripe old age of 150.



On the other hand, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-stop-the-extinction-of-north-atlantic-right-whales/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Atlantic right whales</a> were found to have an average lifespan of a mere 22 years, with very few surviving beyond 50 years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impact-on-north-atlantic-whales">Human impact on North Atlantic whales</h2>



According to Greg Breed, the study's lead author at the <a href="https://www.uaf.edu/uaf/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Alaska Fairbanks</a>, this longevity gap between two closely related species is primarily attributable to human interference.



"North Atlantic whales have unusually short lifespans compared to other whales, but this isn't because of intrinsic differences in biology, and they should live much longer," said Breed. 



"They're frequently tangled in fishing gear or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ships-are-disregarding-efforts-to-protect-north-atlantic-right-whales/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">struck by ships</a>, and they suffer from starvation, potentially linked to environmental changes we don’t fully understand.”



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



These findings will not only rewrite biology textbooks but will also recalibrate the scales on which we measure conservation efforts for these creatures.



"To attain healthy populations that include old animals, recovery might take hundreds of years," noted Breed. "For animals that live to be 100 or 150 and only give birth to a surviving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/first-ever-footage-of-a-blue-whale-nursing-its-calf-captured/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">calf</a> every 10 years or so, slow recovery is to be expected.”



This slow recovery trajectory highlights the critical need for sustained conservation measures and global collaboration to protect these iconic marine mammals.



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



The research also emphasizes the significance of cultural knowledge among whale clusters. 



“There’s a growing recognition that recovery isn’t just about biomass or the number of individuals. It’s about the knowledge these animals pass along to the next generation," said Breed. 



The loss of older whales disrupts this critical transfer of knowledge and could potentially jeopardize the survival of younger individuals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-the-study-to-other-species">Expanding the study to other species</h2>



With this breakthrough discovery under their belts, the scientists plan to extend their research to other whales.



The objective is to determine if species currently believed to have an average lifespan of around 80 years might also be hiding centennial secrets. 



Furthermore, the team is eager to understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/echoes-of-the-past-whalings-long-term-impact-on-genetic-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whaling</a> has impacted the number of aged whales in today's populations and predict when their numbers might rebound to match their pre-whaling glory.



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



The dramatic difference in lifespans between Southern and North Atlantic right whales demonstrates the long-lasting consequences of historical and modern whaling practices.



Southern right whales, which faced significantly less hunting pressure in recent decades, are now showcasing their potential for remarkable longevity. 



In contrast, North Atlantic right whales bear the scars of centuries of exploitation, compounded by ongoing threats such as fishing gear entanglements and ship strikes.



Whaling not only reduced populations but also eliminated many of the oldest individuals, robbing populations of cultural knowledge that is vital for survival.



These findings emphasize the importance of creating safer ocean environments and reducing human interference to allow whales to reach their full lifespans.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adq3086" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Right whales live nearly twice as long as we thought

Whales continue to astonish us with the surprises they reveal,...

Despite their reputation as buzzing nuisances, flies serve a critical role as some of the Earth's most prolific pollinators. A new study led by Penn State scientists suggests that flies are increasingly at risk due to rising global temperatures.



An international team of researchers examined the heat tolerance of various bee and fly species in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas.&nbsp;



The results indicate that flies are more vulnerable to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-climate-change-is-buzzing-off-bumblebee-senses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming climates</a> than bees, since bees can handle significantly higher temperatures and occupy a broader range of habitats.



“Bees and flies are essential for pollinating plants, both in the wild and in agriculture,” said Margarita López-Uribe, an expert in pollinator health at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a> and lead author on the study. “However, these vital insects are declining due to habitat loss, pesticides, disease and the growing threat of climate change.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flies-are-underappreciated-yet-vital-pollinators">Flies are underappreciated yet vital pollinators</h2>



Flies, second only to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bees-do-not-learn-to-be-cooperative-it-is-in-their-genes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> in terms of the volume of crops and habitats they pollinate, play a crucial role in sustaining wild ecosystems.&nbsp;



By facilitating the reproduction of numerous plant species, flies help maintain biodiversity and provide resources for countless other organisms. They also increasingly contribute to agriculture - for example, flies serve as the primary pollinators of cocoa trees, the source of chocolate.



A 2020 analysis of global crops found that the 105 most widely planted crops benefiting from pollinators represent more than $800 billion in gross economic value. Among these pollinators, flies, specifically hoverflies and blowflies, consistently ranked just behind bees.



“It's time we gave flies some more recognition of their role as pollinators,” López-Uribe said. “Flies have a significant role, but they don't get as much attention - and they are vulnerable in all the same ways that bees are.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flies-bees-and-climate-change">Flies, bees, and climate change </h2>



Because insects cannot easily control their body temperatures, rising global temperatures present a serious challenge. 



To assess how different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollinators-face-extinction-risk-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> might cope, the research team measured the “critical thermal maximum” (CTMax) - the highest temperature at which insects can still move - of both bees and flies.



They found that bees can tolerate substantially warmer conditions than flies. On average, bees had a CTMax 2.3 degrees Celsius higher than that of flies.&nbsp;



Additionally, bees foraging in cooler morning hours proved more heat-tolerant than those active in warmer afternoons.&nbsp;



Geographic factors also mattered - pollinators living at high-elevation tropical sites showed lower CTMax values than their counterparts in subtropical areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-data-collection-across-the-americas">Data collection across the Americas</h2>



The study’s data collection occurred during COVID-19 lockdowns, so international students from Penn State and other universities conducted research in their home countries.&nbsp;



Instead of traveling, students worked with equipment sent to them, gathering measurements in their own kitchens and backyards.



“We sent out all of the equipment to do the study to students throughout the U.S. and South America,” López-Uribe said. “These students were collecting the data in their houses, using their kitchens to understand the thermal ecology these insects could withstand.”



“We effectively were able to provide an international research experience without being able to travel internationally.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flies-battling-climate-change">Flies battling climate change </h2>



The findings suggest that insects from cooler, high-altitude environments, such as Cajicá in Colombia, are particularly susceptible to even slight temperature increases.&nbsp;



Since flies are often the primary pollinators in alpine and subarctic regions, their reduced ability to withstand warming could jeopardize entire ecosystems.



“In alpine and subarctic environments, flies are the primary pollinator,” López-Uribe said. “This study shows us that we have entire regions that could lose their primary pollinator as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-climate-change-is-buzzing-off-bumblebee-senses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a> warms, which could be catastrophic for those ecosystems.”



As climate change continues to reshape global temperatures, understanding the vulnerabilities of flies - as well as bees - will be key in guiding conservation efforts.&nbsp;



Without recognizing and protecting the essential pollination services flies provide, communities may face declining biodiversity, reduced crop yields, and unstable ecological networks in the years to come.



The study is published in the <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.17161/jom.vi122.22505" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Melittology</a>.



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Flies are more vulnerable to climate change than bees

Despite their reputation as buzzing nuisances, flies serve a critical...

Murder,Hornet,Vespa,Mandarinia,Giant,Wasp,Known,As,Killer,Bee

The giant "murder hornet," once feared for threatening insects, agriculture, and human comfort, has been eradicated from its foothold in the United States.



Officials in Washington State have announced that the invasive species, long feared to be on a path to permanent establishment, is no longer lurking in the region where it first appeared. This development, five years in the making, has calmed local growers and everyday folks who once wondered whether the hornet’s presence would spread beyond that northwest corner.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-narrow-escape-from-the-murder-hornet">Narrow escape from the murder hornet</h2>



The campaign against the giant murder hornet began when stunned beekeepers discovered eerily decapitated honeybees. Aggressive trapping and tracking techniques soon followed. Specialists from state agencies donned thick suits and carefully approached <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oriental-hornets-have-the-highest-alcohol-tolerance-of-any-animal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hornet</a> nests, using delicate methods to remove them. It took years for the last hornet to turn up empty-handed. This outcome did not come easily. The <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/insects-pests-and-weeds/insects/hornets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Washington State Department of Agriculture</a> and the United States Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, represented by pest program manager Sven Spichiger and associate deputy administrator <a href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/aphis-plant-protection-quarantine-selects-new-leader-its-emergency" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nicole Russo</a>, stand as key figures in this success story.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-the-front-lines">From the front lines</h2>



The individuals who led the fight against this insect had been worried about the possibility of a permanent invader.&nbsp;



“As an entomologist, I’ve been doing this for over 25 years now, and it is a rare day when the humans actually get to win one against the insects,” said <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Sven-Erik-Spichiger" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sven Spichiger</a> at the end of the months-long 2023 tracking season. The dramatic effort to find and eradicate the nests pushed everyone involved to remain vigilant, setting traps, training local port inspectors and working tirelessly to address every reported sighting.



The project required help from all angles.



Observant residents phoned tip lines. Field teams outfitted giant murder hornets with tiny trackers. Nests discovered near the Canadian border were carefully sealed off.



With continued support, officials now say the species is no longer present in that part of Washington. Despite this, many agencies remain on their toes. The United States Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, called the successful effort a <a href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/aphis-action-victory-over-worlds-largest-hornet-species" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“landmark achievement”</a> to celebrate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-did-the-murder-hornets-get-here">How did the murder hornets get here?</h2>



Experts have not identified the precise route by which the giant murder hornet originally arrived. Some suggest it might have hidden inside a shipping container. 



Without clear proof, there is no guarantee a fresh introduction will never happen again. Potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-are-hornets-so-successful-as-invasive-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">future detections</a> will likely trigger a swift response. New sightings remain possible, and teams intend to keep watch. Officials in Washington say that any further activity will face the same intense scrutiny as before. Past lessons will guide all future efforts, so no one wants to take chances.



Outside the United States, fears linked to hornets have rattled others. 



In parts of Europe, alarm spread after a related species, the southern giant hornet, surfaced in northern Spain, prompting researchers to warn that more outbreaks could follow if left unchecked. The wide distribution of similar insects shows that this is not a contained issue. Scientists point to climate conditions, global shipping patterns, and changing ecosystems as reasons why these insects appear in unlikely places.



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



The hornet once caused a buzz in the media under various nicknames. Many remember it being called the “Asian giant hornet” and “murder <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hornets-are-the-most-important-pollinators-for-some-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hornet</a>,” but specialists have moved toward a name they find more accurate. 



As per the <a href="https://www.entsoc.org/publications/common-names/better-common-names-project" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Entomological Society of America</a>, calling it the “northern giant hornet” better suits its native range while also reducing problematic associations. That shift may help everyone talk about the insect without tying it to any single region or prompting unnecessary assumptions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-really-mattered">What really mattered</h2>



The giant hornet’s potential to damage honeybee colonies and other beneficial insects raised alarms among ecologists, beekeepers and farmers. 



A single hornet nest, if left alone, can cause serious losses in crucial pollinator populations. Many experts knew that if the species spread, it would be no small matter. 



<a href="https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/A-Bionomic-Sketch-of-the-Giant-Hornet%2C-Vespa-a-Pest-Matsuura-Sakagami/67e9b6a08e424b124bae2965e0d292e55d93ad43" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Studies</a> on the behavior of the northern giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia) suggest that these hornets can quickly invade hives, and their stings pack a painful punch for humans and other animals as well.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-lessons-from-the-murder-hornets">Key lessons from the murder hornets</h2>



One positive takeaway from this situation is that clear communication and community involvement can pay off. Early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alien-invasion-yellow-legged-hornet-spotted-in-the-u-s-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">detection</a> and rapid response efforts worked. The strong network of officials, scientists and residents raised the alarm, tracked every possible hornet and prevented it from spreading to other areas. Officials have also given training and supplies to various inspectors at key points of entry. The entire scenario, though tense, underlined how people can come together to stop a serious threat before it turns into an ongoing crisis.



Further details on the eradication of the northern giant hornet are available <a href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/aphis-action-victory-over-worlds-largest-hornet-species">here</a>. 



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Victory: Invasive "murder hornets" have been completely eradicated from the US

The giant "murder hornet," once feared for threatening insects, agriculture,...

How does a barn owl, with its striking white plumage, vanish seamlessly against a night sky? A recent study conducted by a team of biology and optics researchers from various Spanish institutions unveils the intriguing secrets behind the barn owl’s stealthy hunting strategies.



The findings reveal how the barn owl’s distinctive white underbelly and face help it remain nearly invisible to its prey under moonlit and starlit skies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barn-owls-are-skilled-hunters">Barn owls are skilled hunters</h2>



Barn owls, scientifically known as Tyto alba, are medium-sized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-gray-owls-thrive-closer-to-human-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">owls</a> found across a wide range of habitats - including grasslands, farmland, and woodlands - throughout much of the world.



Recognized for their distinctive heart-shaped face, they have a striking appearance with a light-colored underbelly and a mottled brown and gray upper body. 



The owls have a unique facial disc that helps funnel sound directly into their ears, giving them exceptional hearing - which is crucial for hunting in low-light conditions.



Unlike most owls that hunt at dusk or in the early morning, barn owls are primarily nocturnal, relying on their acute sense of hearing to locate prey in complete darkness. 



Their diet mostly consists of small mammals, particularly rodents like mice and voles, but they also hunt birds, insects, and reptiles.



Barn owls are highly skilled hunters, capable of flying silently thanks to their specialized feather structure. The soft, velvety feathers on their wings and facial disc help reduce sound as they swoop in on their prey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barn-owls-hunting-in-the-moonlight">Barn owls hunting in the moonlight</h2>



Most owls rely on dark feather colors to blend into their surroundings, allowing them to remain inconspicuous while hunting. In contrast, barn <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-silent-flight-of-owls-is-one-of-natures-great-mysteries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">owls</a> stand out with a strikingly pure white underbelly and a round white face. 



At first, this coloration seems counterintuitive, as it could potentially make the owl more noticeable to prey.



However, researchers propose that this seemingly conspicuous trait is actually a highly effective adaptation for nocturnal hunting. The barn owl’s white feathers may serve as camouflage when seen against a clear, moonlit, or starlit night sky.



To test this theory, the researchers conducted an extensive study using advanced techniques. They measured light conditions in various nighttime scenarios, created models to simulate visibility, and used hyperspectral imaging to analyze how light interacts with the owl’s plumage.



These methods provided a detailed understanding of how the barn owl’s unique coloring aids its stealthy hunting strategy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barn-owls-blend-into-the-night-sky">Barn owls blend into the night sky</h2>



The researchers used sophisticated techniques to evaluate how visible barn <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-plans-to-save-spotted-owls-by-killing-450000-barred-owls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">owls</a> are under various nighttime lighting conditions. 



The team recreated scenarios involving moonlight, starlight, and reflected light to study how these light sources interact with the owl’s plumage, the night sky, and the ground below.



The analysis revealed that the white feathers of barn owls closely mimic the reflectance of moonlight. This alignment significantly reduces the contrast between the owl’s body and its background, making it exceptionally difficult for prey to detect the owl until it is too late.



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



A critical part of the study involved using hyperspectral imaging to measure how light reflects off different parts of the owl’s body. 



This technique provided precise data on how the feathers interact with various wavelengths of light, reinforcing the finding that the owl’s white plumage effectively minimizes visibility under moonlit conditions.



As discussed above, on clear nights illuminated by moonlight, the barn owl’s white underbelly blends almost perfectly with the bright night sky. 



This seamless blending reduces the chance of prey, such as rodents, spotting the owl as it silently approaches.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-owl-s-feathers-reflect-light">How the owl’s feathers reflect light</h2>



The owl’s feathers reflect light in a manner that significantly lowers the contrast between its body and the sky. This optical effect makes the barn owl nearly invisible to its prey, providing it with a crucial camouflage advantage during nighttime hunting.



Data from hyperspectral imaging confirmed these observations by showing how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/white-barn-owls-hunting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">owl’s feathers</a> reflect specific wavelengths of light. 



The measurements indicated that the plumage’s reflectance closely matches the light of the moonlit sky, further reducing visibility and enhancing its ability to evade detection.



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



This study presents an opportunity for further exploration into how other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-barred-owls-live-in-the-city-they-prefer-affluent-neighborhoods/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nocturnal predators</a> might employ similar strategies to avoid detection. 



The role of light reflectance in predator-prey dynamics opens a promising avenue for interdisciplinary research, integrating biology, optics, and behavioral science.



As barn owls continue to intrigue both researchers and bird enthusiasts, studies like this contribute to a greater understanding of how these silent hunters master the art of invisibility. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2406808121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Stealthy hunters: Barn owls use moonlight for camouflage

How does a barn owl, with its striking white plumage,...

In the quiet stillness of the ocean, when the sun dips below the horizon, marine creatures on coral reefs experience a significant shift.



As daytime creatures retreat into the safety of corals, nocturnal predators begin their evening hunt.



This fascinating cycle is as routine as the setting sun – until the intrusion of artificial light disrupts the natural order.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-study-on-coral-reef-nightlife">A study on coral reef nightlife</h2>



A recent press release revealed the details of an insightful study on the effects of light pollution on coral reef communities.



The research is recognized as the first, large-scale experiment addressing the influence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-light-pollution-disrupts-entire-ecological-networks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light pollution</a> on coral reef nightlife. 



The study was conducted by researchers from the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>, the Centre de Recherches Insulaires et Observatoire de l’Environnement (CRIOBE) in French Polynesia, and Chile's Pontificia Universidad Católica.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-artificial-light-a-silent-intruder">Artificial light: A silent intruder</h2>



"When the sun sets, coral reefs undergo a dramatic transformation," noted Dr. Emma Weschke, the study's lead author from the University of Bristol’s School of Biological Sciences.



The vibrant fish that command our attention during the day retreat to rest among the corals, and elusive nocturnal species emerge from caves and crevices in pursuit of prey.



"The night usually brings a veil of darkness that allows <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-ever-ocean-dna-study-uncovers-mysteries-of-marine-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine life</a> to hide from nocturnal predators. But artificial light generated by human activities exposes coral reef inhabitants to unexpected danger," explained Professor Andy Radford, the study's senior author.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-night-vision-experiment">The night vision experiment</h2>



The team utilized specially designed underwater infrared cameras to observe a coral reef at night.



These cameras allowed the researchers to film the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/overfishing-and-habitat-degradation-have-devastated-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine ecosystem</a> without altering fish behavior since fish cannot see in the infrared spectrum.



What they discovered was quite alarming. Compared to control sites that lacked artificial light, a larger number of different fish species were present on artificially illuminated reefs at night.



Further investigation revealed these species to be predatory fish feeding on zooplankton, small fish, and invertebrates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dangers-of-light-pollution">Dangers of light pollution</h2>



Dr. Weschke explained that many species detected on artificially lit reefs were not nocturnal. Instead, these fish are usually active during the day.



"Finding that light pollution can cause fish to stay awake later than usual is concerning because sleep - like for us - is likely essential for regenerating energy and maintaining fitness," said Dr. Weschke.



"<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-clownfish-are-struggling-to-survive-under-artificial-lights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Artificial light</a> makes it much easier for predators to locate and capture prey, reducing their foraging effort. Which is why we think that greater numbers are being attracted to artificially illuminated coral reefs at night," noted Professor Radford.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-the-impacts-of-artificial-light">Reducing the impacts of artificial light</h2>



However, the situation isn’t completely bleak. The researchers observed changes in the reef's nightlife after an average of 25 consecutive nights of being exposed to artificial light.



Brief periods of exposure didn't cause noticeable changes in fish communities. This suggests that implementing low-cost solutions rapidly could have a positive impact.



"Reducing the impacts of artificial light could help build resilience on valuable coral reefs," noted study co-author Professor Steve Simpson.



"Unlike greenhouse gases and plastics, artificial light is a pollutant that doesn’t leave a residue when switched off. Limiting artificial light in both its intensity and duration, prioritizing it for essential needs and reducing aesthetic use, will help re-establish naturally dark nights that marine ecosystems evolved with."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-coral-reefs-in-a-brightening-world">Preserving coral reefs in a brightening world</h2>



Coral reefs, often referred to as the "rainforests of the sea," are among the most diverse and vital ecosystems on the planet. 



They support nearly 25% of all marine species, provide coastal protection, and serve as critical sources of food and income for millions of people globally. 



However, the increasing intrusion of artificial light adds another stressor to already vulnerable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reef-food-webs-threatened-by-the-loss-of-picky-eaters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral reef systems</a>, which are struggling against threats such as climate change, overfishing, and pollution. 



Mitigating light pollution is one of the easiest ways to support coral reef health. By prioritizing low-impact lighting technologies and implementing targeted lighting practices near reef habitats, significant strides can be made in preserving these ecosystems.



Reinstating natural light-dark cycles by limiting artificial light exposure provides reefs a better chance to recover and thrive. 



As urban expansion and tourism increase near coastal regions, innovative solutions to minimize light pollution are becoming essential to ensure the survival of these ecological treasures.



The full study was published in the journal Global Change Biology.



Image Credit: Emma Weschke



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Light pollution is transforming nightlife on coral reefs

In the quiet stillness of the ocean, when the sun...

Cow,At,A,Meadow,In,Austria

We've all heard it before -- to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and curb fossil fuel dependency, we should consider reducing the energy and resources we use to make meat and animal products.



The entire lifecycle of raising animals for beef production -- from planting and harvesting feed crops to transportation, processing, and refrigeration -- consumes a very substantial amount of energy, mostly coming from fossil fuels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-a-baby-calf-to-one-single-hamburger">From a baby calf to one single hamburger</h2>



Raising a cow from calf to hamburger really puts a strain on our planet's resources. For starters, producing a single quarter-pound hamburger can use up to 1,600 gallons of water. 



This water goes into growing the feed the cow eats, irrigating crops, and managing waste. Plus, producing beef from animals is very energy-intensive, requiring around 2 to 3 kilowatt-hours of energy for each burger -- and that energy comes from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cop28-agreement-marks-the-beginning-of-the-end-of-fossil-fuels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil fuels</a>.



On top of that, each cow needs about 4.5 acres of land for grazing and feed production -- that's 4.5 acres for every cow in the world that is being raised to ultimately become hamburger. That's an incredible amount of land, to say the least.



Next, beef farming is a major source of greenhouse gases, releasing roughly 44 to 55 pounds of CO₂ equivalent per hamburger. Think about how many hamburgers are eaten around the world every day, and you'll start to get the idea.



But the impact doesn't stop there. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cattle-farming-expansion-could-expose-more-than-a-billion-cows-to-heat-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cattle farming</a> often leads to deforestation and habitat loss, especially in sensitive areas like the Amazon rainforest, which harms biodiversity and disrupts ecosystems while adding to carbon emissions. 



Cows are also not very efficient at turning feed into meat, needing about 15 pounds of feed to produce just 5 pounds of beef. To make beef production more sustainable, we can adopt several strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-raising-animals-takes-lots-of-energy">Raising animals takes lots of energy</h2>



A new study recently attempted to put a quantifiable number on this entire process, proving that it's not just about reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-greenhouse-emissions-rebounded-in-2021/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse emissions</a>.



Scientists from Norway, Austria, and Switzerland, based at the <a href="https://www.ntnu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Norwegian University of Science and Technology</a>'s (NTNU) Industrial Ecology Programme, have put a microscope to the energy requirements of our global food system. 



The study reveals that our consumption of animal products has a more significant impact than we might have imagined.



Crunching the numbers from 2015-2019, they found that a whopping 60% of the energy footprint of agriculture worldwide is attributed to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-products-linked-to-double-the-emissions-of-plant-based-foods/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal-based products</a>.



"That energy is predominately from fossil fuels," said Edgar Hertwich, a professor at NTNU’s Industrial Ecology Programme and the senior author of the paper.



As we have seen, societies are increasingly looking at electricity as a cleaner energy option. However, this does not readily apply to agriculture.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eating-animals-an-energy-hungry-industry">Eating animals: An energy hungry industry</h2>



One of the key challenges highlighted in the study is the inefficiency of animal husbandry. 



In simple terms, we grow food to feed animals, and then we consume the animals -- but the energy return on this "investment" is disappointingly low.



The research found that whilst livestock accounted for the majority of agriculture's energy footprint during the study period, it only provided a minor 18% of the calories consumed worldwide.



Led by Kajwan Rasul, the team sought to calculate the energy return on the energy investment, essentially benchmarking the efficiency of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-meat-and-dairy-alternatives-will-dramatically-transform-the-global-food-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food system</a>.



It's a simple equation. If the figure is less than 1, it signifies that it takes more energy to produce the food than we get back from consuming it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-out-the-energy-footprint">Mapping out the energy footprint</h2>



To conduct this study, Rasul employed two models, EXIOBASE and FABIO, that respectively allowed him to estimate energy use across various sectors and track the production, trade, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-food-consumption-doubled-in-the-last-decade/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consumption of food</a>. 



Integrating these two models using innovative methodologies enabled the team to examine the energy footprint of our food system on a much deeper level than previously possible.



Their study covered ten food categories, broken down from 123 different commodities, across a global spread of 20 regions. 



They also investigated the food system's energy footprint over two, five-year phases, namely 1995-1999 and 2015-2019, which enabled them to identify trends.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bright-side-positive-trends-over-time">The bright side: Positive trends over time</h2>



There is some good news to share. 



Rasul and the team of scientists found a noticeable improvement in the energy efficiency of global food systems over the two decades.



The energy return on energy investment shifted from 0.68 in 1995 to 0.91 in 2019. Yet, this still meant that, in 2019, it cost 10% more energy to produce every calorie provided to society than was returned in consumption.



Regions with less industrialized food systems, like parts of Africa and Asia, consistently had energy returns on investments higher than one. 



This is encouraging as these regions are home to 68% of the world's population.



Rasul noticed that this trend was also reflected in four of the world's five high-income regions. However, he expressed caution over whether this trend was genuinely due to efficiency improvements.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-security-and-the-fossil-fuel-energy-equation">Food security and the fossil fuel energy equation</h2>



The findings of this study raise broader implications beyond greenhouse gas emissions.



If energy for food production was boundless and environmentally neutral, we wouldn't need to worry about inefficiencies in agriculture. But that's not our reality.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seed-systems-will-play-a-key-role-in-future-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food security</a> is a significant concern. If our agriculture continues to depend heavily on fossil fuels, we may face a significant crisis. 



This isn't just a theoretical proposition: historical incidents, like the 1970s energy crisis or the more recent ripple effects from conflicts, highlight the potential risk.



As the authors of the study succinctly put it, agricultural systems heavily reliant on fossil fuels "turn the question of food security into a question of energy security." 



It's time for us all to take note and reconsider what's on our dinner plate.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/pnasnexus/article/3/12/pgae524/7919164" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PNAS Nexus</a>.



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The amount of energy it takes to make one hamburger is hard to believe

We've all heard it before -- to reduce greenhouse gas...

A concentrated sugar solution might be just as effective as antibiotics in treating a prevalent infection in dairy cows, according to new research led by Penn State.



The findings could significantly reduce antibiotic use in dairy farming, combating antimicrobial resistance in both animals and humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antimicrobial-resistance-in-the-dairy-industry">Antimicrobial resistance in the dairy industry</h2>



Antimicrobial resistance poses a growing public health concern, making alternatives to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antimicrobial-resistance-could-cause-39-million-deaths-by-2050/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotics</a> vital. 



“The main goal of this research was to test an antibiotic-free alternative option against the current gold standard for treating this prevalent disease,” said Erika Ganda, assistant professor of food animal microbiomes at <a href="https://www.psu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a>.



The study focused on treating clinical metritis, a uterine infection that affects cows after calving. This condition, one of the most common diseases in U.S. dairy cattle, is typically treated with antibiotics like ceftiofur. 



While effective, such treatments may contribute to antimicrobial resistance, a pressing issue for farm workers and their communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sugar-solution-as-an-alternative-to-antibiotics">Sugar solution as an alternative to antibiotics </h2>



The researchers explored intrauterine dextrose, a sugar solution, as an alternative to systemic antibiotics. Dextrose kills bacteria by pulling water out of them, causing the cells to dry out and die. 



“We have been searching for alternative therapies that can effectively treat metritis without relying on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-plays-an-overlooked-role-in-antibiotic-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotics</a>,” explained Adrian Barragan, associate research professor and co-lead author of the study.



This approach has shown promise in human wound healing but had previously delivered mixed results in cattle. Encouragingly, the study found that dextrose worked just as well as antibiotics for mild cases of metritis. 



“We were definitely not expecting to find that both treatments worked similarly for mild cases,” Barragan said. “That was a very exciting discovery.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comparing-the-effects-of-sugar-and-antibiotics">Comparing the effects of sugar and antibiotics </h2>



The study was conducted on 77 dairy cows from a farm in Pennsylvania that were diagnosed with clinical metritis.



The researchers divided the cattle into two groups for treatment comparison. One group received intrauterine dextrose while the other group was treated with systemic ceftiofur, a commonly used <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nanoplastics-can-alter-the-course-of-antibiotics-within-our-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotic</a>.



To assess the effectiveness of both treatments, the researchers carefully monitored the cows' recovery. They also analyzed the microbial communities in the cows' reproductive tracts using advanced DNA sequencing techniques.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preservation-of-microbial-health">Preservation of microbial health</h2>



The analysis provided insights into how the treatments affected the bacterial populations in the uterus.



The results revealed that both treatments had similar success rates in curing mild cases of metritis. However, there were variations in how the treatments performed depending on the severity of the infection. 



A key finding was that dextrose, unlike <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-create-viruses-to-combat-antibiotic-resistant-bacteria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotics</a>, did not disturb the natural balance of bacteria in the uterus. 



This preservation of microbial health could have long-term benefits for the cows, potentially improving their overall reproductive health and reducing the risk of complications.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-organic-dairy-farms">Implications for organic dairy farms </h2>



The discovery of an effective sugar-solution holds particular promise for organic dairy farms, where antibiotics are restricted.



“Our findings may be applicable to reproductive disease in human medicine. In fact, we were inspired by medical literature and sugar-based wound treatments for people,” noted Barragan.



Ganda emphasized the benefits of minimizing antibiotics. "We treat cows with antibiotics only when necessary to ensure their welfare,” she said. "Minimizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-sea-microbes-show-promise-as-new-antibiotic-drugs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotic use</a> helps reduce the risk of resistant bacteria that can impact farm workers, families, and communities.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-dependency-on-antibiotics">Reducing dependency on antibiotics </h2>



While the study’s results are promising, the researchers acknowledge the need for further investigation. 



The study's relatively small sample size means the researchers cannot make definitive conclusions about the effectiveness of sugar-based treatments in curing uterine infections. 



However, the results are promising and provide an important starting point for further research. These findings suggest that sugar-based treatments could potentially be developed as viable alternatives to antibiotics. 



This can be used not only for treating infections in animals like dairy cows but also for addressing similar reproductive health issues in humans. The study opens the door to new, antibiotic-free approaches in both veterinary and human medicine.



By reducing antibiotic dependence, this research could have far-reaching impacts on animal welfare, public health, and the fight against antimicrobial resistance. 



“Antimicrobial resistance in human and veterinary medicine is a growing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antimicrobial-resistance-projected-to-kill-10-million-people-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">public health concern</a>,” Ganda noted. This sweet solution might just be a game-changer for addressing it.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2024.1478288/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Veterinary Science</a>.



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Sugar solution could replace antibiotics for treating dairy cows

A concentrated sugar solution might be just as effective as...

A new study provides compelling evidence that the Chicxulub meteorite impact, rather than massive volcanic activity, was the principal driver behind the extinction of the dinosaurs 66 million years ago.&nbsp;



Climate scientists from <a href="https://www.uu.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Utrecht University</a> and the <a href="https://www.manchester.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Manchester</a> have found that the climatic disturbances caused by colossal volcanic eruptions in India had largely subsided thousands of years before the meteorite struck, leaving the asteroid impact as the ultimate reason for the dinosaurs’ demise.&nbsp;



The findings, published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.ado5478">Science Advances</a>, help resolve a decades-long scientific debate.



“These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/violent-volcanic-eruptions-likely-caused-dinosaur-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic eruptions</a> and associated CO₂ and sulphur release would have had drastic consequences for life on Earth,” said Lauren O’Connor, a researcher at Utrecht University. “But these events happened millennia before the meteorite impact and probably played only a small part in the extinction of dinosaurs.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controversy-over-dinosaur-extinction-nbsp">Controversy over dinosaur extinction&nbsp;</h2>



For many years, researchers have debated whether the catastrophic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nadir-crater-second-massive-asteroid-impact-discovered-dinosaur-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asteroid</a> impact near the present-day Gulf of Mexico or the extensive volcanic eruptions of the Deccan Traps in India led to the mass extinction that ended the Cretaceous Period.&nbsp;



Both events significantly impacted Earth’s climate and ecosystems. The asteroid impact unleashed a chain of disasters including massive wildfires, tsunamis, earthquakes, and a lingering “impact winter” that darkened the skies and devastated the global food chain.



Meanwhile, the Deccan Traps eruptions, occurring both before and after the asteroid strike, released huge volumes of CO₂, dust, and sulphur into the atmosphere.&nbsp;



These emissions could have induced substantial warming or cooling, depending on their composition and duration. Determining which event bore the greatest responsibility for the dinosaurs’ extinction has long proved challenging due to their overlapping timelines and complex climatic effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-in-ancient-peats">Clues in ancient peats</h2>



To break this impasse, the research team turned to an innovative method: examining ancient peats in the United States for molecular fossils that record past temperatures.&nbsp;



Certain bacteria produce characteristic membrane-spanning molecules that vary in structure with ambient temperature.&nbsp;



By analyzing these molecular traces in sediments from the time leading up to the dinosaur extinction, the researchers reconstructed detailed timelines of Earth’s climate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temperature-timeline-leading-to-dinosaur-extinction-nbsp">Temperature timeline leading to dinosaur extinction&nbsp;</h2>



The analysis uncovered a distinct sequence of events. Approximately 30,000 years before the asteroid impact, a major phase of Deccan Traps volcanism triggered significant climate change, cooling the Earth’s surface by at least 5° Celsius.&nbsp;



This cooling was most likely caused by volcanic sulphur emissions, which blocked incoming sunlight.&nbsp;



However, the record shows that some 20,000 years before the asteroid struck, global temperatures had already rebounded, returning to levels similar to those before the volcanic eruptions.



“We were able to create a detailed ‘temperature timeline’ for the years leading up to the dinosaur extinction,” O’Connor explained. “By aligning these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-may-have-become-warm-blooded-180-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate changes</a> with the fossil record, we can better understand the relative timing of these events.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanic-effects-had-faded-before-the-impact">Volcanic effects had faded before the impact</h2>



The revelation that Earth’s climate had stabilized well in advance of the Chicxulub meteorite impact is crucial. Although the Deccan Traps eruptions undoubtedly stressed ecosystems and altered climates, their effects had dissipated long before the asteroid arrived.&nbsp;



With the volcanic disruptions out of the picture during the critical window, the data strongly point to the meteorite collision as the primary catalyst for the extinction event.



This finding helps distinguish between the gradual, prolonged influence of volcanism and the abrupt, globally catastrophic consequences of the asteroid strike.&nbsp;



The volcanoes may have prepared a stage of ecological vulnerability, but they did not deliver the final, fatal blow. By the time the asteroid hit, Earth’s systems had largely recovered from the volcanic perturbations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-asteroid-s-fatal-blow">The asteroid’s fatal blow</h2>



With volcanic influences waning thousands of years before the end of the Cretaceous, the Chicxulub meteorite impact emerges more clearly than ever as the decisive factor behind the dinosaurs’ extinction.&nbsp;



Unlike volcanic activity, which occurs over extended periods, the asteroid collision was sudden and brutally efficient, throwing a shroud of debris into the atmosphere, blocking sunlight, and triggering a cascade of environmental calamities.



“By comparison, the impact from the asteroid unleashed a chain of disasters, including wildfires, earthquakes, tsunamis, and an ‘<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nuclear-winter-dinosaurs-were-likely-killed-by-dust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact winter</a>’ that blocked sunlight and devastated ecosystems,” said Rhodri Jerrett of the University of Manchester. “We believe the asteroid ultimately delivered the fatal blow.”



This swift and worldwide onslaught overwhelmed ecosystems, knocking out plant life dependent on sunlight and collapsing food webs that supported large terrestrial animals like dinosaurs.&nbsp;



While some species survived - leading to the rise of mammals and, eventually, humans - the mighty dinosaurs could not endure this sudden catastrophe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-accurate-picture-of-earth-s-past">An accurate picture of Earth’s past</h2>



The methods employed in this study highlight the power of molecular paleoclimatology. By examining microscopic bacterial remains embedded in ancient sediments, scientists can now resolve the timing and intensity of climate changes from millions of years ago with remarkable precision.&nbsp;



These advances allow researchers to clarify the interplay between volcanic eruptions, asteroid impacts, and mass extinctions, painting a more accurate picture of Earth’s deep past.



The study’s conclusions provide a clearer understanding of why the dinosaurs disappeared. While volcanic activity did shape the Earth’s environment, it was not the immediate executioner. 



Instead, the researchers confirm that the Chicxulub impact, with its sudden and universal repercussions, was the ultimate cause of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-evolved-feathers-for-much-more-than-just-flying/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaurs</a>’ end.



“These findings help us understand the relative timing of events and confirm that the asteroid was the ultimate driver of the extinction event,” O’Connor said.



Armed with these insights, scientists can continue to refine their understanding of ancient Earth crises, shedding light on how life responds to abrupt environmental shifts - lessons that may prove valuable as our planet faces its own ecological challenges today.



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Dinosaur extinction was not caused by global volcanic eruptions 

A new study provides compelling evidence that the Chicxulub meteorite...

Ground squirrels are commonly associated with their diet of nuts, seeds, and grains, but a groundbreaking new study reveals an unexpected twist in their behavior.&nbsp;



Researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Davis</a>, have discovered that California ground squirrels also hunt, kill, and eat voles.&nbsp;



This surprising finding, published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10164-024-00832-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Ethology</a>, marks the first documented evidence of widespread carnivorous behavior among squirrels.



The findings fundamentally challenge long-held assumptions about California ground squirrels as primarily granivorous. Instead, the study suggests that these animals are opportunistic omnivores, capable of adjusting their diet to include meat when the opportunity arises.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-shocking-discovery-of-carnivorous-squirrels">A shocking discovery of carnivorous squirrels</h2>



The surprising observations occurred in 2024 during the 12th year of the Long-term Behavioral Ecology of California Ground Squirrels Project at Briones Regional Park in Contra Costa County.&nbsp;



Study lead author Jennifer E. Smith is an associate professor of biology at UW-Eau Claire who co-leads the project with Sonja Wild of UC Davis.&nbsp;



Over the course of June and July, the researchers recorded 74 interactions between squirrels and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prairie-voles-can-form-bonds-without-oxytocin/">voles</a>, 42% of which involved active hunting by the squirrels.



“This was shocking,” said Professor Smith. “We had never seen this behavior before. Squirrels are one of the most familiar animals to people. We see them right outside our windows; we interact with them regularly.”&nbsp;



“Yet here’s this never-before-encountered in science behavior that sheds light on the fact that there’s so much more to learn about the natural history of the world around us.”



Even for Wild, a seasoned observer of ground <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-affects-ground-squirrels-in-unexpected-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">squirrels</a>, the behavior was initially hard to believe.&nbsp;



When undergraduate students first reported seeing squirrels hunting voles, Wild admitted skepticism. “No, I’m not sure what you’re referring to,” she said, until she watched the video evidence.



“I could barely believe my eyes,” Wild recounted. “From then, we saw that behavior almost every day. Once we started looking, we saw it everywhere.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-opportunists-in-a-changing-landscape">Opportunists in a changing landscape</h2>



The study documented squirrels of all ages and genders hunting and consuming voles, often competing over the prey. This behavior peaked in early July, coinciding with a sudden increase in vole populations reported by citizen scientists on <a href="https://www.inaturalist.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iNaturalist</a>.&nbsp;



Interestingly, the researchers observed squirrels hunting only voles and no other mammals, suggesting that the behavior arose in response to the temporary abundance of this particular prey.



Wild emphasized the adaptability of California ground squirrels in the face of environmental changes.&nbsp;



“The fact that California ground squirrels are behaviorally flexible and can respond to changes in food availability might help them persist in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-learning-speed-keeping-pace-with-a-changing-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environments</a> rapidly changing due to the presence of humans.”



Smith echoed this sentiment, pointing to the broader trend of mammals adapting to human-altered landscapes.&nbsp;



“Many species, including the California ground squirrel, are incredible opportunists,” she said. “From raccoons and coyotes to spotted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/friendly-hyenas-more-likely-to-engage-in-mobbing-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hyenas</a> and humans, the flexibility these mammals apply to their hunting strategies helps them change and adapt with the human landscape.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-questions-for-future-research">Questions for future research</h2>



While the discovery sheds new light on ground squirrel behavior, it raises numerous questions about the ecological and evolutionary implications of their hunting habits. The researchers are particularly curious about how widespread this behavior is among other squirrel populations and whether it is learned or instinctual.



“Through this collaboration and the data coming in, we’re able to document this widespread behavior that we had no idea was going on,” Smith said. “Digital technology can inform the science, but there’s no replacement for going out there and witnessing the behavior because what animals are doing always surprises us.”



The team also plans to investigate whether vole hunting has any impact on squirrel reproduction, comparing data from this year to the previous decade.



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



This discovery of carnivorous behavior in California ground squirrels adds a fascinating layer to our understanding of a species we thought we knew well. It demonstrates not only the behavioral flexibility of these animals but also highlights the value of direct observation and collaboration in scientific research.



The findings suggest that even the most familiar animals can surprise us with behaviors that challenge established assumptions. As researchers prepare for next year’s field season, they remain eager to uncover what other secrets these seemingly ordinary squirrels might reveal.



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First evidence of carnivorous squirrels documented in California

Ground squirrels are commonly associated with their diet of nuts,...

A recent study highlights a critical challenge for coral reproduction in the face of climate change. Led by Professor Peter Mumby from The University of Queensland, the research found that corals must be within a few meters of each other to reproduce successfully.



This surprising discovery has significant implications for coral survival, as warming oceans and other climate impacts continue to decimate reefs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-in-coral-reproduction">Factors in coral reproduction</h2>



The research team measured the success of a natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-illuminates-fish-interactions-in-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral spawning</a> event in March this year. 



“In what came as a surprise, we saw that corals needed to be within 10 metres (32.8 feet) of one another, and preferably closer than that for fertilization to take place,” explained Professor Mumby.



The team’s findings revealed a stark reality. Fertilization rates averaged 30% when corals were very close to each other. However, this figure dropped to less than 10% at a separation of 10 meters (32.8 feet) and was virtually zero at distances beyond 20 meters (65.6 feet).



“We knew corals couldn’t be too far apart, but we found they need to be closer than we’d expected,” noted Professor Mumby.



“Climate change impacts like bleaching are killing and reducing the density of corals, so we’re concerned that individuals may end up too far apart to reproduce successfully.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-proximity-in-coral-reproduction">Importance of proximity in coral reproduction</h2>



The research team set up their experiment on a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-seeding-increases-resistance-to-extreme-heatwaves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reef</a> in Palau, Micronesia. They placed containers above 26 coral colonies during a spawning event, capturing eggs and allowing sperm from nearby corals to enter the containers.



“The containers captured some of each corals’ eggs and drifted to the surface where they followed the tide,” said Professor Mumby.



“Although the eggs could not escape, sperm could enter the container and fertilize the eggs. After an hour of drifting, the proportion of fertilized eggs was noted for each type of coral, along with the distance to similar established corals.”



The results demonstrated the importance of proximity among <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reefs-in-some-parts-of-the-world-actually-benefit-from-warming-el-nino-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">corals</a> for successful reproduction.



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



The findings from <a href="https://www.uq.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The University of Queensland</a> highlight how climate change exacerbates challenges for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/multivitamins-could-save-coral-reefs-from-climate-destruction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral populations</a>. Bleaching events and other stressors not only kill corals but also reduce their density, making reproduction increasingly difficult.



Dr. Christopher Doropoulos from <a href="https://www.csiro.au/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CSIRO</a>, a co-author of the study, emphasized the importance of coral reproduction for population resilience and evolution.



“In the future, we may need to help corals continue this key part of their lives,” said Dr. Doropoulos. “Understanding the importance of local neighbourhoods provides tangible targets for interventions like coral restoration.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-restoration-efforts-and-future-directions">Restoration efforts and future directions</h2>



Coral restoration emerges as a vital strategy to combat this reproductive challenge. 



“Ideally, the density of corals would be monitored at important locations and restoration carried out to return the density back to the levels required for successful reproduction,” Dr. Doropoulos added.



Professor Mumby highlighted the significance of ongoing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reefs-could-vanish-if-temperatures-continue-to-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">restoration</a> efforts. 



“Our work over the past 5 years on the Great Barrier Reef through the Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program is also helping to define these critical thresholds to help restoration practitioners set targets for density to help maintain coral populations,” said Professor Mumby.



The study, funded by the McCusker Foundation and the Australian Government’s Reef Restoration &amp; Adaptation Program, provides actionable insights for coral conservation. 



By identifying critical density thresholds, researchers hope to guide interventions that can enhance coral reproduction and resilience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hope-amidst-challenges">Hope amidst challenges</h2>



This research highlights how vulnerable coral populations are, and emphasizes the critical need for focused <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/60-percent-global-coral-reefs-face-bleaching-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> efforts.



Climate change, through factors like ocean warming and bleaching, is making coral survival increasingly difficult. However, studies like this provide essential insights for scientists and conservationists to better protect coral reefs. 



The key finding - that corals need to be close to each other for reproduction - can guide efforts to ensure they remain healthy and viable. If corals are not able to reproduce due to greater distances between them, it could lead to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-worlds-largest-coral-bleaching-event-is-now-underway/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decline of these vital ecosystems</a>.



Ensuring corals are sufficiently close for successful reproduction is therefore crucial in maintaining and preserving coral reefs for the future.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.2418314121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Corals count on nearby neighbors for successful reproduction

A recent study highlights a critical challenge for coral reproduction...

In many parts of the world, drought leaves farmers struggling. Dry fields often translate into puny harvests and financial heartache.



Traditional methods of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-in-dry-landscapes-have-surprising-diversity/">checking plants for dryness</a> are slow, and rely heavily on visible signs like wilting leaves. By the time farmers notice, it can be too late to prevent major losses.



Last month, researchers unveiled a promising solution: a sensor that detects dryness in plants up to 48 hours before symptoms first appear. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-clues-hidden-in-plant-fluids">Early clues hidden in plant fluids</h2>



Subtle <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sensors-that-detect-plant-stress-could-revolutionize-farming/">chemical shifts</a> deep inside a plant’s tissues can hint at dehydration long before leaves look limp. 



Instead of waiting for obvious signs, researchers used these sensors to measure pH levels inside living plants, thus detecting the early signs of stress.



A decrease in acidity signals the onset of dehydration, and the sensors are designed to detect this shift early. By embedding these <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00216-023-05003-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sensors</a> into plant tissues, scientists aim to give farmers an edge in managing water stress.



This research was led by Michael Strano at the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (<a href="https://smart.mit.edu/post/smart-researchers-pioneer-method-to-detect-dehydration-in-plants" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SMART</a>), in collaboration with Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory and MIT.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inside-these-tiny-sensors">Inside these tiny sensors</h2>



The secret to this approach lies in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0039914023003648" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Covalent Organic Framework (COF) sensors</a>. These advanced materials are built from carbon-containing molecules that are arranged in crystal-like grids. They shift colors in response to changes in pH, making them ideal for tracking plant health.



However, COFs had not been used in biological systems until researchers combined them with <a href="https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2024/ma/d4ma00479e" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">silk fibroin microneedles</a>. These microneedles allow the sensors to penetrate plant xylem tissues gently and effectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clear-vision-of-ph-changes">Clear vision of pH changes</h2>



The silk fibroin microneedles are transparent, which enables real-time observation of pH changes inside plants. Drought stress triggers a rise in pH, which these sensors detect through subtle shifts in color.



This breakthrough offers farmers a way to <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-53532-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spot stress early</a> and intervene before visible damage occurs. As climate change intensifies, tools like these could become essential for maintaining crop yields.



“This type of sensor can be easily attached to the plant and queried with simple instrumentation,” explained <a href="https://www.technologyreview.com/innovator/michael-strano/">Michael Strano,</a> SMART researcher.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-precision-agriculture-for-harsh-times">Precision agriculture for harsh times</h2>



Agriculture faces increasing challenges from climate unpredictability and rising costs. Many farmers rely on reactive methods to manage crops, which leads to resource inefficiencies.



The new sensors enable proactive measures by offering precise insights into a plant’s internal health. With these <a href="https://smart.mit.edu/research/distap/about-distap" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tools</a>, growers can conserve water, apply nutrients strategically, and minimize waste.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-voices-behind-the-silk-cof-marriage">Voices behind the silk-COF marriage</h2>



“These sensors make agriculture more precise under the challenges of climate change,” said <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=vDv5NCcAAAAJ&amp;hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benedetto Marelli,</a> SMART researcher. By integrating nanosensors with biomaterials, the technology offers a seamless method for monitoring plant health.



This innovation enables researchers to explore plant stress indicators more comprehensively. Furthermore, it supports global efforts to improve agricultural sustainability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-detecting-subtle-ph-shifts-in-practice">Detecting subtle pH shifts in practice</h2>



When dryness begins to stress a plant, pH levels increase. The <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-53532-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COF sensors</a> capture these shifts by changing from dark red to red.



This simple visual cue <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiktok-can-help-farmers-discuss-climate-change/">helps farmers</a> detect problems without requiring expensive equipment. By addressing water stress earlier, farmers can protect their crops and reduce overall losses.



“We’ve developed a method to detect pH changes in plant tissues to prevent yield loss,” said <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=1fO3teIAAAAJ&amp;hl=zh-CN" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Song Wang</a>, SMART researcher.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-sensor-design">Practical sensor design</h2>



The sensors are minimally invasive and easy to use. Farmers can monitor results with a smartphone camera, capturing color changes directly from the sensor.



“SF microneedles allow real-time mapping of plant health in a minimally invasive way,” confirmed <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=eb8KurwAAAAJ&amp;hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Yangyang Han</a>, SMART researcher.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-ahead-to-more-targets">Looking ahead to more targets</h2>



The researchers plan to expand this technology beyond pH detection. They aim to design sensors capable of measuring plant hormones and metabolites, which would provide even deeper insights into plant health.



By tracking multiple indicators, COF sensors could revolutionize crop management by enabling farmers to safeguard their crops and resources effectively. This would help farmers adapt to changing environmental conditions, and demonstrate the potential for precision <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-nutrient-loss-due-to-heavy-rainfall-threatens-agriculture/">agriculture</a> to tackle the challenges of climate change and food security.&nbsp;



The research was published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-53532-7">Nature Communications</a>.



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Tiny sensors can detect dehydration before it destroys crops

In many parts of the world, drought leaves farmers struggling....

In 1969, paleobotanists identified fossilized leaves in eastern Utah belonging to the extinct species Othniophyton elongatum, a name that translates to “alien plant.” Initially, researchers speculated it might be part of the ginseng family.&nbsp;



However, new discoveries have turned this assumption on its head. Recent fossil specimens reveal that this ancient plant is even stranger than previously thought, challenging how scientists classify extinct flora.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alien-plant-with-an-unknown-family">Alien plant with an unknown family</h2>



Steven Manchester, curator of paleobotany at the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Museum of Natural History</a>, has spent years studying 47-million-year-old fossils from Utah.&nbsp;



During a visit to the <a href="https://www.berkeley.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Berkeley</a>, Manchester encountered an unusually well-preserved <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-reveals-how-plants-use-winged-seeds-to-expand-their-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant fossil</a> from the same area as the original Othniophyton elongatum leaves. This fossil included leaves, fruits, and flowers attached to a woody stem - a rare find.



“This fossil is rare in having the twig with attached fruits and leaves. Usually those are found separately,” Manchester said.



Further analysis revealed that these fossils were from the same species as the 1969 find. However, the new evidence showed that Othniophyton elongatum didn’t fit within the ginseng family -- or any other known plant family.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-plant-with-no-living-relatives">A plant with no living relatives</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Alien-plant.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">To uncover the origins</a> of Othniophyton elongatum, Manchester and his colleagues compared the physical features of the fossils to over 400 modern plant families. Despite their extensive search, they couldn’t find a match.



“There are many things for which we have good evidence to put in a modern family or genus, but you can’t always shoehorn these things,” Manchester said.



This was the case with Othniophyton elongatum. Its peculiar combination of traits - including leaves, fruits, and flowers - defied placement in any known group. Even extinct families failed to provide a fit.



The research highlights a significant challenge in paleobotany: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/all-plants-on-earth-could-be-saved-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinct plants</a> from less than 65 million years ago are often assigned to modern families or genera.&nbsp;



This practice can distort our understanding of ancient biodiversity, creating the false impression that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ecosystem-behavior-earth-first-sea-creatures-stirring-water-drove-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prehistoric ecosystems</a> were more similar to today’s than they actually were.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strange-fossils-from-an-ancient-lake">Strange fossils from an ancient lake</h2>



The fossils were discovered in the Green River Formation near the ghost town of Rainbow in eastern Utah. This formation, a massive inland lake system 47 million years ago, provided ideal conditions for preserving plants and animals in remarkable detail.



Low-oxygen sediments and volcanic ash slowed decomposition, resulting in the preservation of fish, reptiles, birds, and plants, including the fossils of Othniophyton elongatum.&nbsp;



However, the original specimens collected in 1969 offered limited information. Researchers could only analyze the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-had-complex-leaf-vein-networks-200-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">leaves</a>, which resembled compound leaves commonly found in the ginseng family.



New fossils, though, painted a very different picture. Leaves attached directly to stems, rather than in a compound arrangement, ruled out the ginseng family.&nbsp;



Additional features, including the plant’s fruits and flowers, ruled out other families like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fairy-circles-kill-all-newly-planted-grasses-deepening-their-mystery/">grasses</a> and magnolias. Even with such detailed specimens, the team remained stumped.



“The two twigs we found show the same kind of leaf attached, but they're not compound. They’re simple, which eliminates the possibility of it being anything in that family,” Manchester explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-look-at-the-alien-plant">A new look at the alien plant</h2>



For years, the fossils sat in storage as researchers struggled to make sense of them. Then, new technology offered a breakthrough. The Florida Museum of Natural History established a microscopy workstation that allowed the team to examine the fossils in unprecedented detail.



Using a digital microscope with computer-enhanced shadow illumination, Manchester and his colleagues discovered features they had previously missed. The minute fruits revealed micro-impressions of their internal anatomy, including developing seeds.



“Normally we don't expect to see that preserved in these types of fossils, but maybe we've been overlooking it because our equipment didn’t pick up that kind of topographic relief,” Manchester said.



One of the most striking aspects was the plant’s stamens, the male reproductive organs of its flowers. In most plants, stamens detach after fertilization, but in Othniophyton elongatum, they remain attached to the mature fruits - an unusual trait not seen in any modern plant.



“Usually, stamens will fall away as the fruit develops. And this thing seems unusual in that it's retaining the stamens at the time it has mature fruits with seeds ready to disperse. We haven't seen that in anything modern,” Manchester noted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shedding-light-on-ancient-ecosystems">Shedding light on ancient ecosystems</h2>



The study’s lead author, Julian Correa-Narvaez, a doctoral student at the University of Florida, emphasized the importance of the discovery. “It’s important because it gives us a little bit of a clue about how these organisms were evolving and adapting in different places,” he said.



The diversity within plant families can be astonishing. For example, seemingly unrelated species like poison ivy, cashews, and mangoes belong to the same family, which contains over 800 species. However, with Othniophyton elongatum, scientists can only speculate about how much diversity has been lost to time.



Similar discoveries from the Green River Formation have unveiled other extinct plant groups, showing that it remains a rich site for paleobotanical mysteries.&nbsp;



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



Digital tools like <a href="https://www.idigbio.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iDigBio</a>, which allow researchers to access museum specimens remotely, are helping to unlock these mysteries and advance our understanding of plant evolution.



The discovery of Othniophyton elongatum not only expands our knowledge of extinct plants but also challenges assumptions about how ancient ecosystems functioned.&nbsp;



Published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/aob/mcae196" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annals of Botany</a>, this study serves as a reminder of how much remains to be discovered in the fossil record - and how evolving technology can illuminate the secrets of the distant past.



Image Credit: Florida Museum of Natural History photo by Jeff Gage



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Fossil mystery: The "alien plant" that defies classification

In 1969, paleobotanists identified fossilized leaves in eastern Utah belonging...

Evolution is a fascinating concept that explains how life changes over generations. 



Imagine looking at photographs of your great-grandparents, grandparents, and parents, side by side. You’d notice resemblances, but also distinct differences in features.



This is evolution in its simplest form: descent with modification. Over countless generations, these modifications accumulate, resulting in the incredible diversity of life we see today.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-misconceptions-on-evolution-of-life">Misconceptions on evolution of life</h2>



For a long time, people believed evolution was a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-mars-became-uninhabitable-after-being-life-supporting-ocean-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">process</a> that always moved forward, improving life and making organisms more advanced or perfect over time. 



This idea gave rise to the theory of&nbsp;orthogenesis, which suggested that evolution followed a straight, predictable path toward more sophisticated or optimized forms.



However, traditional depictions of evolution, like Rudolph Zallinger’s famous "The Road to Homo Sapiens," suggest a stepwise journey toward increasingly complex forms.



Even though orthogenesis is no longer accepted scientifically, the idea still lingers. Many people unconsciously think of evolution as a progression, which oversimplifies its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-life-and-environment-co-evolved-over-500-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complexity and adaptability</a>.



But evolution lacks a predetermined endpoint. “Organisms evolve by natural selection acting at a specific geologic moment, or simply by drift, without strong selection in any direction,” explained Jacob Suissa, an assistant professor of Plant Evolutionary Biology at the <a href="https://www.utk.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tennessee</a>.



This means evolution is more akin to a tangled web than a one-way street.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-irreversible-evolution-of-life">Irreversible evolution of life</h2>



In 1893, Belgian paleontologist Louis Dollo introduced the idea that once an organism evolves a specific set of traits, it cannot reverse to its earlier form.



This concept, known as Dollo's Law of Irreversibility, suggests that evolution is a one-way process. For instance, if a species evolves a complex adaptation, it is unlikely to shed that adaptation and return to its simpler, ancestral state.



While this idea has faced criticism, it continues to shape our understanding of evolutionary specialization. 



Many biologists believe that once organisms develop highly complex traits, such as seeds in plants or wings in birds, reversing to a simpler, ancestral state becomes nearly impossible due to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-evolution-not-random-gene-families-pangenome-influence-called-revolutionary/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">layers of complexity</a> involved.



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



A clear example can be seen in the evolution of plant reproduction. Early vascular plants like Cooksonia had simple, stem-like structures called telomes, which performed dual functions - photosynthesis (making food) and reproduction (releasing spores).



Over millions of years, plants evolved specialized structures that separated these functions. They developed seeds, cones, and flowers to enhance reproduction efficiency. These advanced adaptations appear irreversible, as plants with such traits have not reverted to using simpler structures like telomes.



In essence, Dollo’s Law highlights the difficulty of "undoing" complexity in evolution, which is why such reversals are rare and surprising when they occur.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ferns-challenge-the-narrative">Ferns challenge the narrative</h2>



Unlike most plants, ferns defy the idea of irreversible evolution of life. They exhibit two main reproductive strategies:



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Monomorphism&nbsp;– Using the same leaf type for photosynthesis and spore production.</li>



<li>Dimorphism&nbsp;– Having separate leaf types for these functions.</li>
</ol>



In their study, Suissa and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/makaleh-smith-717638215/">Makaleh Smith</a>, a former undergraduate research intern at <a href="https://www.harvard.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard University</a> discovered that some ferns - particularly in the Blechnaceae family - had reverted from dimorphism to monomorphism.



This finding challenges the traditional view that reproductive specialization is a one-way <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolution-is-not-as-random-as-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary path</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-makes-ferns-so-flexible">What makes ferns so flexible? </h2>



The key to flexibility in ferns lies in their lack of seeds, flowers, and fruits. While seed plants rely on highly specialized reproductive structures, ferns retain the ability to modify their spore-producing strategies.



“Imagine taking a fertile fern leaf, shrinking it down and wrapping it up tightly into a tiny pellet. That’s basically what an unfertilized seed is,” explained Suissa.



Without the constraints of seeds, ferns can adapt their reproductive methods more freely, demonstrating a remarkable evolutionary plasticity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-the-evolution-of-life">Implications for the evolution of life</h2>



Understanding the flexibility of ferns provides valuable insights into how organisms respond to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mammals-evolved-similar-inner-ears-despite-different-ancestry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental changes</a>. 



Species with rigid, "one-way" evolutionary paths may struggle to adapt to new pressures. In contrast, the ability of ferns to "evolve backward" highlights the importance of retaining adaptability in a rapidly changing world.



“Ultimately, our study underscores a fundamental lesson in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/primate-evolution-completing-the-timetree-of-life-for-all-of-our-closest-relatives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary biology</a>: there is no "correct" direction in evolution, no march toward an end goal,” concluded Suissa.



Evolution is a dynamic, non-linear process that is continually shaped by the environment and chance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-branching-tree-not-a-ladder">A branching tree, not a ladder</h2>



The study implies that the evolution of different life forms doesn’t work like climbing a ladder where each step is better or higher than the last. Instead, it’s like a tree with many branches, each representing a species or group adapting differently to its environment.



These adaptations lead to a wide variety of forms and functions, demonstrating that there is no single path or endpoint in evolution. 



Some traits evolve to suit specific conditions, while others may develop in entirely different directions in response to diverse challenges.



By understanding this complexity, we gain a deeper appreciation for the vast <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-evolution-was-shaped-by-environmental-crises-land-and-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diversity of life</a> on Earth. The research encourages us to move away from oversimplified ideas of evolutionary history and embrace the intricate, non-linear processes that shape life over time.



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Ferns evolving backward: A new look at the evolution of life

Evolution is a fascinating concept that explains how life changes...

Shrubs are a key factor in the challenging task of restoring forests after catastrophic wildfires. Beyond planting new tree seedlings, it’s essential to determine when and where to plant for the best chance of success.



Recent research from the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Davis</a> highlights how shrubs can significantly influence the success of forest recovery, acting as both allies and competitors in the regrowth process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shrubs-competing-with-trees">Shrubs competing with trees </h2>



"Generally, where there are more shrubs, the climate and soil are more hospitable for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-temperatures-alter-photosynthesis-and-plant-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant growth</a>," noted Derek Young, the lead author of the research paper. "But what that also means is there’s more competition for trees.”



In regions with higher shrub populations, it seems that planting seedlings within a year of a wildfire might yield the best results. These seedlings will then have a head start before the woody shrubs begin to repopulate the area.



Conversely, in areas where shrubs are scarce, the most effective time to plant is reportedly three years after a fire, which gives soil conditions time to stabilize and recover from the intense heat of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-breaking-wildfire-years-are-just-getting-started/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfire</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dual-role-of-shrubs-in-forest-recovery">The dual role of shrubs in forest recovery</h2>



Shrubs often act as ecological engineers, modifying their environment in ways that can either benefit or hinder <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/initiatives-to-plant-billions-of-trees-threatened-by-seedling-undersupply/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree seedlings</a>. 



On one hand, their roots help stabilize soil and prevent erosion, which is especially vital after a wildfire. 



On the other hand, shrubs compete with tree seedlings for water, nutrients, and sunlight, creating challenging conditions for growth.



This dual role makes it critical to understand the specific ecosystem dynamics before implementing large-scale <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/half-of-plants-used-in-reforestation-projects-do-not-survive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reforestation</a> efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shrubs-shade-and-tree-growth">Shrubs, shade, and tree growth</h2>



Another interesting insight from the study is that in extremely harsh post-fire conditions, existing plant life might actually support the growth of new tree seedlings.



Shrubs, in particular, can provide shade, which reduces soil temperatures and protects fragile seedlings from excessive sun exposure.



“Some vegetation in those really harsh sites might actually facilitate tree establishment by providing shade,” said Young.



This finding challenges the common assumption that shrubs are always detrimental to tree growth, and suggests that they can play a protective role in certain environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-optimizing-forest-recovery-after-fires">Optimizing forest recovery after fires</h2>



In a rapidly warming world, understanding how to effectively promote forest recovery is of vital importance.



Wildfires are growing more intense and frequent, leaving vast areas of scorched land in need of restoration.



“We’re aiming to help optimize <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/could-tree-planting-warm-earth-science-behind-albedo-effect/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree planting</a> by targeting it to where it’s really needed. Doing this matters because we’re facing a reforestation backlog – limited capacity to replant and a lot of severely burned area,” explained study senior author Andrew Latimer.



This research provides a roadmap for making more strategic decisions about where, when, and how to plant trees in wildfire-affected areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-from-the-past-to-guide-the-future">Learning from the past to guide the future</h2>



The team’s study involved an extensive survey of areas in California’s Sierra Nevada, representing a range of climates and management strategies. 



These regions were replanted with conifer tree seedlings one to three years after experiencing intense wildfires.



To gather data, the researchers created circular plots measuring 400 square meters, including both replanted and non-planted areas. 



By meticulously counting seedlings, measuring shrub cover, and analyzing environmental variables, the team was able to quantify how different factors influence forest composition and tree survival rates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-the-path-to-recovery">Mapping the path to recovery</h2>



One of the most fascinating outcomes of the study is the development of predictive models that allow researchers to map where trees are likely to thrive post-wildfire.



“Now we have quantified the effects of certain environmental variables that allow us to make those maps,” Young said.



Future experiments will explore the effects of removing shrubs two years after a fire to observe how it influences tree regeneration. 



The team also plans to use drones and aerial imagery to monitor wildfire sites and assess the long-term impact of various management strategies over the past four decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-the-future-of-forest-management">Balancing the future of forest management</h2>



As wildfires continue to reshape landscapes across the globe, balancing the role of shrubs in forest recovery becomes increasingly important. 



While shrubs may initially seem like obstacles, they can also serve as partners in reforestation, especially in areas with extreme environmental conditions.



This research provides valuable insights for land managers, conservationists, and policymakers working to restore forests in the era of climate change.



By understanding the complex interplay between shrubs and trees, we can create more resilient and sustainable ecosystems for the future.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378112724006583?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forest Ecology and Management</a>.



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Shrubs play a dual role in forest recovery following wildfires

Shrubs are a key factor in the challenging task of...

Blueberries have long been admired for their taste and versatility in the kitchen. They pop up in countless dishes, from sweet pastries to savory sauces. 



Many people enjoy their fresh, slightly tart flavor, but there is much more to these berries than a pleasant taste.



The fact that blueberries are considered a “superfood” is not just talk (Chaudière &amp; Ferrari-Iliou, 1999). 



This berry may hold the key to improvements in several areas of human well-being, and people are starting to pay closer attention to what it can do inside the body.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-essential-nutrients-in-blueberries">Essential nutrients in blueberries</h2>



They pack an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-sized-fruit-strawberries-weigh-60-percent-more-than-they-did-12-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">abundance of vitamins</a>, such as vitamin C, as well as a hefty dose of antioxidants (Thomas, 2004). These nutrients help the body defend itself against everyday stress.



Blueberries were first cultivated by Native Americans and later spread far and wide due to their hardy nature and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-messing-with-vital-microbes-in-blueberries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">easy adaptability</a>.



They fit nicely into snacks, desserts, and even main dishes, adding a layer of both flavor and nutrition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-inflammation">Balancing inflammation</h2>



According to <a href="https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-health-sciences/interdisciplinary/our-professors/karen-phillips" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Karen Phillips</a> at The National Food Research Center, certain compounds inside blueberries, like proanthocyanidins, may help the body handle unwanted inflammation (Retamales &amp; Hancock, 2012).



When there is too much inflammation, it can cause trouble with healing and contribute to tissue injury and disease. 



These plant compounds seem to bring balance. Getting them into one’s routine through a handful of blueberries might help the body feel more at ease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blueberries-for-cancer-and-aging">Blueberries for cancer and aging</h2>



In 2015, around 220,000 patients were diagnosed with cancer in Spain (<a href="https://seom.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spanish Society of Medical Oncology</a>, as cited in Gough, 1994). Such figures are hard to ignore.



Some studies have examined whether eating blueberries could influence the way the body manages abnormal cells.



Research suggests that these berries contain substances like gallic acid and resveratrol, which have been linked with reduced growth of certain abnormal cells (Wilms et al., 2007).



Although this should not be seen as a promise to preventing all problems, it may add a bit of hope that dietary changes can make a difference.



Proanthocyanidins may protect against changes that are linked with aging (Ivarsson et al., 2023). By helping mop up the undesirable free radicals that lead to wear and tear, blueberries may aid in promoting health as years pass.



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



The mind deserves protection too. Substances within blueberries <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-why-blueberries-are-blue/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">may help</a> neurons work better by fending off damage caused by harmful processes (Caruso et al., 2022).



Adding a serving of blueberries to a meal might help the brain stay on track. Many believe this berry could be one piece of the puzzle when it comes to keeping memory and mental sharpness in good shape.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blueberries-looking-after-dna">Blueberries looking after DNA</h2>



When cells age, they can suffer damage that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthal-dna-is-more-common-in-people-with-autism/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">affects DNA</a> (Wilms et al., 2007). 



Blueberries contain antioxidants that may help reduce the harm done to this critical genetic material, thus allowing cells to continue functioning smoothly.



With fewer harmful changes in our DNA, we may be able to avoid some serious health issues as we age. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-helping-with-sugar-balance">Helping with sugar balance</h2>



For individuals facing insulin resistance, blueberries have caught researchers’ eyes. A 2010 <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20467011/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> suggested that these berries might help the body respond better to insulin (Stull et al., 2010).



By helping maintain stable blood sugar levels, they can be a useful addition to a meal plan, especially for those looking to keep sugar swings in check.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-healthy-cholesterol">Supporting healthy cholesterol</h2>



According to the <a href="https://www.usa.gov/agencies/u-s-department-of-agriculture" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United States Department of Agriculture</a>, blueberries are thought to be strong helpers in addressing cholesterol concerns (U.S. Department of Agriculture, as cited in Retamales &amp; Hancock, 2012).



By encouraging an environment that keeps good cholesterol levels humming along and discourages the buildup of problematic cholesterol, blueberries may promote healthier circulation within our blood vessels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blueberries-boost-circulation-memory-and-eye-health">Blueberries boost circulation, memory, and eye health</h2>



Healthy blood flow is important. Emerging information suggests that adding these berries to the diet may help reduce blood pressure and support better circulation (Vendrame &amp; Klimis-Zacas, 2019).



This could help our body systems run more efficiently. A boost in nutrient delivery and improved overall function may spring from this simple dietary addition.



Some studies involving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-transmit-more-viruses-to-animals-than-we-catch-from-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">humans and animals</a> have linked blueberries with better memory and improved cognitive performance (Pribis &amp; Shukitt-Hale, 2014; Krikorian et al., 2010). By supporting communication among brain cells, blueberries may make it easier for the mind to keep track of details and ideas.



The antioxidants inside blueberries, called anthocyanins, have been studied in connection with eye health (Huang et al., 2018). By helping protect delicate structures in the eye, these components may reduce the risks tied to exposure and strain. Adding blueberries now might help keep eyes working well for longer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shaping-a-healthier-body-size">Shaping a healthier body size</h2>



For those watching their weight, blueberries slide in as a fiber-filled, low-calorie snack (Kalt et al., 2020). They bring a sense of fullness that can help hold off unhealthy cravings. 



They may also help keep blood sugar levels more stable. All these factors point towards blueberries as a superfood with an important place in a sensible eating plan.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unexpected-boost-in-intimate-life">An unexpected boost in intimate life</h2>



Nitric oxide plays a role in healthy circulation. 



Research suggests that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/compounds-found-blueberries-could-treat-inflammatory-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">compounds</a> in blueberries may influence levels of this molecule, which has been tied to processes connected with performance (Yale School of Medicine, as cited in Gough, 1994).



Their vitamins help with blood circulation, including that of the scalp, which can support healthier hair as a result. By helping to improve overall body function, blueberries can contribute to how people look and feel on the outside too.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glowing-skin-and-stronger-defenses">Glowing skin and stronger defenses</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/inaoside-new-antioxidant-discovered-laetiporus-cremeiporus-mushrooms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antioxidants</a> in blueberries keep our skin feeling smooth and youthful (Ivarsson et al., 2023). As part of a skincare plan, they may tip the balance toward a more vibrant look.



Rich in vitamin C and other nutrients, these berries can support the immune system’s day-to-day job (Chaudière &amp; Ferrari-Iliou, 1999). They may help the body stand tall when facing challenges, from minor sniffles to bigger threats.



The research referred to in this article is supported by studies published in:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/4/819" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nutrients</a> (Caruso et al., 2022, doi: 10.3390/nu14040819).</li>



<li>Food and Chemical Toxicology (Chaudière and Ferrari-Iliou, 1999).</li>



<li><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022316622071085?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Nutrition</a> (Stull et al., 2010, doi: 10.3945/jn.110.125336).</li>



<li><a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/jf9029332" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry</a> (Krikorian et al., 2010, doi: 10.1021/jf9029332)</li>



<li><a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/12/6/1261" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antioxidants</a> (Ivarsson et al., 2023, doi: 10.3390/antiox12061261)</li>



<li><a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2018/1862462" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity</a> (Huang et al., 2018, doi: 10.1155/2018/1862462)</li>



<li><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2161831322002538?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Advances in Nutrition</a> (Kalt et al., 2020, doi: 10.1093/advances/nmz065).</li>
</ul>



These peer-reviewed studies provide scientific evidence of the benefits associated with blueberry consumption.



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15 benefits of eating blueberries, the superfood that greatly improves health

Blueberries have long been admired for their taste and versatility...

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