Beneath the forest floor lies a hidden web that sustains life as we know it. These lifelines are not roots, nor are they animals or minerals. They are fungi - ancient organisms that form dense underground networks. Most people never see them, yet they are as essential as sunlight and rain for ecosystems.



Fungi connect trees in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/underground-fungal-networks-are-natures-hyper-efficient-architects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">silent communication</a>. They help crops resist disease and survive drought. Without fungi, the soil weakens, the plants suffer, and biodiversity falters. 



Despite their importance, fungi are rarely featured in conservation headlines. They’ve been largely ignored in environmental efforts, until now.



This month, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (<a href="https://iucn.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IUCN</a>) released a warning: fungi are under threat. And the threat is serious. Deforestation, farming expansion, and wildfires driven by climate change are pushing hundreds of fungi species toward extinction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unsung-heroes-of-life">Unsung heroes of life</h2>



The IUCN’s latest update of its Red List reveals a worrying trend. Out of 1,300 well-documented fungal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fungi-can-think-and-make-smart-decisions-without-a-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a>, 411 face extinction. 



This number represents only a fraction of the fungal kingdom. Scientists have recorded around 150,000 fungal species so far, but estimates suggest the true count may exceed 2.5 million.



Each of these organisms plays a part in maintaining balance in ecosystems. Many fungi form symbiotic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-fungi-diversity-can-be-pulled-out-of-thin-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">relationships</a> with plants, providing them with nutrients in exchange for sugars. 



These relationships are ancient, stretching back over 400 million years. Their loss would unravel natural systems that evolved over millennia.



"Fungi are the unsung heroes of life on Earth, forming the very foundation of healthy ecosystems - yet they have long been overlooked," said IUCN Director General Grethel Aguilar.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fungi-are-unseen-but-essential">Fungi are unseen but essential </h2>



Fungi form their own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-eating-fungus-beauveria-bassiana-causes-the-immune-system-to-attack-neurons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological kingdom</a>. They are distinct from plants and animals. Their structures, growth patterns, and reproduction methods differ entirely. Yet, their presence supports both flora and fauna.



"While fungi mainly live hidden underground and inside wood, their loss impacts the life above ground that depends on them," explained Professor Anders Dahlberg, a Swedish mycologist who led the IUCN’s fungal assessment.



Dahlberg compares their role to the microbiome in human guts. Unseen but essential, fungi allow ecosystems to digest, grow, and respond to change. When fungi vanish, ecosystems lose <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-and-fungi-communicate-using-a-silent-language/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resilience</a>. 



Crops become more vulnerable, trees become less stable, and soils lose their ability to store carbon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impact-on-fungal-networks">Human impact on fungal networks</h2>



Nearly 300 fungal species are now threatened due to expanding agricultural lands and growing cities. As human settlements rise and farmlands sprawl, fungi lose habitat. 



Urban development compresses the earth, alters drainage, and cuts through the underground threads fungi rely on.



Nitrogen-rich fertilizers and vehicle emissions also impact fungi. The IUCN notes that 91 species are directly threatened by nitrogen and ammonia pollution. 



One example is the fibrous waxcap (Hygrocybe intermedia), an uncommon yellow-orange mushroom found across European meadows. Once spread from Scandinavia to southern Italy, it now faces serious pressure.



Deforestation creates even more severe <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-fungi-can-be-trained-to-degrade-plastic-faster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consequences</a>. The cutting of ancient forests removes the only environment many fungi can survive in. Unlike fast-growing plants, many fungi cannot adapt or migrate quickly.



"Clear-cutting of old-growth forests is especially damaging, destroying fungi that do not have time to re-establish with rotation forestry," the IUCN noted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-iconic-fungi-species-are-disappearing">Iconic fungi species are disappearing</h2>



Some threatened fungi were once widespread, although none of the popular edible varieties face immediate danger. Dahlberg noted that the most vulnerable types are often very specific, occupying narrow ecological roles in local fungal communities.



One such species is the giant knight (Tricholoma colossus), which has suffered greatly due to the disappearance of old-growth pine forests in Finland, Sweden, and Russia. These forests have declined by 30 percent since the 1970s, shrinking the giant knight’s habitat along with them.



The public rarely hears of such species, yet their loss weakens ecosystems. Each vanished fungus takes with it a piece of the forest’s memory, function, and future stability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-shifts-the-forest-s-rhythm">Climate change shifts the forest’s rhythm</h2>



Global warming adds another layer of threat. In the United States, shifting fire patterns have altered forest dynamics. 



Fires now burn hotter, more often, or in unexpected regions. Over 50 fungal species have been affected, with some pushed to the edge of extinction.



One notable case involves the endangered Gastroboletus citrinobrunneus. This rare fungus depends on specific conditions found in California’s Sierra Nevada. Due to warming, fir trees have overtaken the high-elevation woods, reducing the mushroom’s already limited habitat.



Fungi cannot run. They cannot grow elsewhere at will. When the forest changes, they either adapt slowly or die quickly. Climate pressure forces rapid shifts that fungal systems were never designed to handle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-kingdom-that-holds-it-all-together">The kingdom that holds it all together</h2>



The IUCN’s Red List now includes nearly 170,000 species, of which over 47,000 face extinction. Fungi, long excluded from mainstream conservation, are now being recognized for their irreplaceable roles.



"Now it's time to turn this knowledge into action and safeguard the extraordinary fungal kingdom, whose vast underground networks sustain nature and life as we know it," said Aguilar.



Preserving fungi means protecting forests, clean soil, healthy crops, and biodiversity. These silent organisms are nature’s caretakers. The time has come to listen to their silence - and act before it becomes permanent.



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Hundreds of fungi species are threatened with extinction

Beneath the forest floor lies a hidden web that sustains...

Humans are pushing many of North America’s pollinators dangerously close to extinction, according to a newly released study.&nbsp;



Led by NatureServe, the study examined nearly 1,600 species - bees, beetles, butterflies, moths, flower flies, bats, and hummingbirds - and concluded that over 22% of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollinators-face-extinction-risk-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> are at high risk of disappearing.&nbsp;



Since we rely on them for everything from fruit orchards to backyard gardens, the findings raise urgent alarms about the future of our food systems, ecosystems, and well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dire-assessment-of-pollinator-decline">Dire assessment of pollinator decline </h2>



This large-scale analysis, one of the first to combine so many types of pollinators, revealed that some groups are in more trouble than others. Native <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-spring-flowers-can-save-bees-and-boost-pollination/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> emerged as a major concern, with 34.7% at risk - leafcutter and digger bees were singled out as especially imperiled.&nbsp;



Bats fared no better; all three pollinating bat species in the study also face troubling declines, while <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hummingbirds-have-an-incredible-strategy-to-survive-food-shortages/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hummingbirds</a> escaped with an overall lower threat level.&nbsp;



According to the authors, the American Southwest is a “hotspot” of risk: it boasts a high diversity of pollinators but also suffers significant climate-related and human-driven stressors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-security-is-at-stake">Food security is at stake</h2>



Pollinators are not just pretty insects or interesting mammals. They are the linchpins in a massive network of life, responsible for fertilizing crops and wild plants alike.&nbsp;



Pollinator species contribute over $15 billion a year to the agricultural economy of North America. Their disappearance would undermine the reproduction of key plants, disrupt wildlife <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-awakening-arctic-food-webs-are-transforming-from-green-to-brown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food webs</a>, and cut into human livelihoods, from small-scale farms to major commercial operations.&nbsp;



The authors hope this work draws attention to a bigger picture: losing pollinators doesn’t just mean fewer bees in a meadow. It means fewer seeds, fruits, and flowers - a ripple effect for everything that depends on those resources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impact-on-pollinator-decline">Human impact on pollinator decline</h2>



The findings place most of the blame on agriculture, habitat loss, urban expansion, and climate change, though the specific mix of threats varies.&nbsp;



For example, the southwestern United States sees both intense urbanization and searing heat, while many farmland-heavy regions must contend with heavy pesticide use. 



In Florida, for instance, the rapid development of pine rockland habitats has raised concerns that certain butterflies - with limited historical ranges - could vanish.&nbsp;



The same goes for southwestern desert ecosystems where specialized pollinators are increasingly squeezed between farmland and sprawl.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-species-are-struggling-to-hold-on">Species are struggling to hold on</h2>



Dr. Jaret Daniels, a co-author of the study and curator of Lepidoptera at the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Museum of Natural History</a>, has witnessed some of these pressures firsthand. 



He noted that Florida harbors remarkable butterfly diversity, yet the state’s intense population growth and land conversion are leaving specialized species with fewer places to go. 



According to Daniels, we’re seeing species that already occupied tiny pockets of habitat now struggling to hold on because of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urbanization-is-a-threat-to-78-of-the-worlds-bird-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urbanization</a> - just one among the many threats identified by the study



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reversing-pollinator-decline-nbsp">Reversing pollinator decline&nbsp;</h2>



While the data paint a grim picture, the study also highlights actions people can take. Policymakers could integrate at-risk pollinators into wildlife action plans, unlocking more funds and legal safeguards.&nbsp;



Land managers might set aside or restore key habitats like grasslands and shrublands, which support many fragile pollinator communities.&nbsp;



Meanwhile, homeowners can adopt pollinator-friendly landscaping, from replacing turf with native plants to reducing pesticide use. Little steps, such as planting a few pots of native flowers, truly make a difference, noted Daniels.&nbsp;



Working farmland, too, can make space for pollinators. Daniels describes how Florida’s Department of Transportation plants milkweed along roadsides: pollinators that feed there can then travel to nearby farms, helping pollinate crops like blueberries and squash.&nbsp;



Over time, well-managed roadsides and farm edges become vital corridors for creatures that can roam far beyond a single flower bed.



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



One might ask, why not rely solely on the western honey bee? Daniels warns that placing all our bets on just one species poses risks, especially with pests, diseases, and climate extremes on the rise.&nbsp;



He compares it to a retirement plan: if you invest in only one stock, trouble with that stock could be disastrous. A diverse set of pollinators spreads out the risk and ensures pollination services remain stable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-swift-action-is-needed">Swift action is needed</h2>



While these newly identified threats are serious, Daniels remains cautiously optimistic, noting that pollinators are resilient if given the right support. The study’s authors likewise call for swift action, pointing to targeted, everyday solutions that individuals, farmers, and governments can pursue.&nbsp;



By fostering habitat patches, easing up on pesticides, and recognizing the value of each native pollinator’s unique role, it may be possible to stem the tide of species declines before it is too late.



Above all, the message is clear: pollinators are in trouble, but there are proven measures we can take to help slow their decline.&nbsp;



With nearly one in five pollinators imperiled, the time for more decisive conservation steps has arrived. After all, the fate of many of our favorite foods and the health of countless ecosystems depend on safeguarding these busy creatures.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2418742122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Pollinator decline is a direct threat to food security 

Humans are pushing many of North America’s pollinators dangerously close...

Lightning is both terrifying and fascinating. It splits trees, ignites wildfires, and streaks across the sky in brilliant flashes. Most of us see it as a force of destruction - random, violent, and final.



But in the depths of Panama’s tropical forests, trees of the species Dipteryx oleifera challenges that idea. For these trees, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lightning-sparks-the-discovery-of-a-new-electromagnetic-wave/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lightning</a> isn't deadly - it might actually help them survive.



This surprising twist comes from a study published in New Phytologist. 



Led by forest ecologist Evan Gora from the <a href="https://www.caryinstitute.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies</a>, the research shows that these trees not only survive lightning strikes - they grow stronger because of them. With their tall crowns and wide branches, Dipteryx trees seem built to welcome the storm.



The finding reshapes how we understand forest ecology. Instead of being random, lightning may play a targeted role in helping certain trees dominate, survive, and thrive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trees-that-survive-lightning-strikes">Trees that survive lightning strikes</h2>



Back in 2015, Gora was deep in Panama’s forests when something unusual caught his eye. 



A Dipteryx oleifera had been struck by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lightning-on-earth-can-influence-the-weather-in-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lightning</a>, yet stood tall and mostly unharmed. The strike had been powerful enough to destroy a parasitic vine clinging to its crown and kill more than a dozen trees nearby.



“Seeing that there are trees that get struck by lightning and they’re fine was just mind-blowing,” said Gora.



Intrigued, Gora and his team started paying closer attention to lightning-hit Dipteryx trees. They kept finding the same pattern. The trees lived and thrived. It wasn’t a fluke. Nature had something more deliberate in store.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-lightning-hits-these-trees-win">When lightning hits, these trees win</h2>



By 2022, the team had already shown that trees vary in their ability to survive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lightning-may-have-delivered-the-building-blocks-of-life-to-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lightning</a>. The new research takes this idea even further. 



Using advanced lightning detection tools, the scientists tracked the fate of 93 trees that had endured strikes in Panama’s Barro Colorado Nature Monument.



Among those were nine Dipteryx oleifera, which had all survived. The damage was minimal - some singed bark, a few lost leaves.



In stark contrast, other species hit by lightning lost 5.7 times more foliage and suffered high mortality rates. Within two years, 64% of them had died.



The Dipteryx trees, meanwhile, gained space and freedom. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-red-sprite-lightning-strikes-seen-above-the-himalayas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lightning</a> killed surrounding trees, often as electricity traveled through vines, branches, or short air gaps. On average, each strike wiped out 9.2 nearby trees. That’s not just survival - that’s a strategic clearing of rivals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lightning-removes-parasitic-vines">Lightning removes parasitic vines </h2>



Parasitic vines, or lianas, are a constant threat in tropical forests. They drain trees of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microlightning-from-water-droplets-may-have-sparked-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light</a> and nutrients, making growth a struggle. But for Dipteryx, lightning works like a scythe. After a strike, liana infestations dropped by 78%, freeing the trees from their tangled burdens.



This effect wasn’t limited to a few cases. Across the forest, Dipteryx trees consistently hosted fewer lianas than other species. Even trees that hadn’t been struck appeared to benefit from the trend. Lightning, in this case, didn’t just act on individuals - it shaped the structure of the entire forest around them.



Over time, the survivors grew taller. Drone-based 3D canopy models showed that Dipteryx trees stood about four meters above their closest neighbors. That height advantage isn’t coincidence. It likely comes from losing nearby competition, letting them reach higher into the sunlit canopy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-trees-get-hit-more-often">Some trees get hit more often</h2>



The researchers noted that their data provide the first evidence that some trees benefit from being struck by lightning. “It's better off for a Dipteryx oleifera tree to be struck than not," said Gora.



Why would lightning keep targeting the same kind of tree? The answer might lie in their shape. 



Dipteryx trees often grow taller and spread wider than those around them. According to the study’s calculations, this makes them up to 68% more likely to get hit. Their crowns act like natural lightning rods.



And that’s not a problem. It’s part of their edge. In fact, it may be a key to their success in these chaotic, dense ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lightning-strikes-and-stronger-trees">Lightning strikes and stronger trees</h2>



Lightning may seem rare, but for Dipteryx oleifera, it’s a regular part of life. Each tree is struck once every 56 years on average.



And they don’t just endure - they adapt. These trees live for centuries, possibly more than a thousand years. That means a single tree might be struck more than ten times over its lifetime.



One tree in the study was hit twice in five years. It didn’t weaken. And with each strike, it gained more room, more light, and more strength. The lightning wasn’t ending its life. It was clearing the way for it to flourish.



Even reproduction gets a boost. Gora’s team found that lightning tolerance increased the tree’s ability to produce offspring by 14 times compared to trees that lacked that resilience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-role-for-lightning-in-ecology">A new role for lightning in ecology</h2>



This research opens up a new way of seeing forest ecosystems. Lightning isn’t just a threat - it’s a selective force. 



Gora’s team now plans to examine how Dipteryx trees survive these extreme strikes. Are certain internal structures, chemicals, or traits at play? And more importantly, do other species show similar strengths?



Understanding this could be vital. With climate change driving up the frequency of lightning in many tropical areas, trees like Dipteryx oleifera may gain an even bigger edge. That could shift the balance of forest biodiversity and influence carbon storage patterns for decades to come.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/nph.70062" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a>.



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Some trees actually benefit from getting struck by lightning

Lightning is both terrifying and fascinating. It splits trees, ignites...

Across the United States, a quiet crisis is unfolding in forests, grasslands, and wetlands. Native plants, many of which have thrived in their home ecosystems for thousands of years, now face an impossible race. 



Climate change is shifting temperature zones and seasonal patterns faster than these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-future-climate-conditions-will-transform-plant-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> can naturally respond. Unlike animals, most plants cannot migrate quickly. Their slow dispersal, tied to seed movement and favorable growing conditions, means many will not survive unless we intervene.



Scientists and conservationists are grappling with a difficult question: Should we help these native species relocate? And if so, how do we do it responsibly?



The idea of helping plants move into nearby habitats, known as “managed relocation,” is gaining momentum. But moving plants is not without danger. 



Many invasive species, which now plague American ecosystems, arrived in similar ways - carried by humans, intentionally or not, into places they never belonged.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-native-plants-may-save-them">Moving native plants may save them</h2>



Managed relocation sounds like a solution, but it comes with serious risks. The ecological scars of past mistakes remain. Kudzu, once planted for erosion control, now chokes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-understanding-of-light-detection-in-plants-may-revolutionize-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>. 



Purple loosestrife clogs wetlands. Japanese honeysuckle overruns fields. All were introduced with good intentions. All became ecological threats.



Despite these examples, doing nothing could be worse. Climate projections show ecosystems changing rapidly, putting slow-moving native species at risk of extinction. Human-assisted movement might be their only shot.



Thomas Nuhfer is the lead author of a new study published in Global Change Biology and a graduate student in organismic and evolutionary biology at the <a href="https://www.umass.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Massachusetts Amherst</a>.



​“We know that, because of climate, native species need to move,” said Nuhfer. "But many of the people working to manage invasive plant species have real concerns about unwittingly contributing to the problem if we start moving native species around.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-assessing-native-plant-traits">Assessing native plant traits</h2>



To solve this challenge, researchers need to understand what makes some plants thrive in new places and others wreak havoc. 



This is where Nuhfer and his advisor, Professor Bethany Bradley, step in. Their new research examines how specific plant traits contribute to success (and potential risk) when relocating native species.



“We’ve made the mistake of introducing invasive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-may-stop-absorbing-carbon-if-temperatures-continue-to-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> so many times in the past and we don’t want to keep making that mistake. But in a changing climate, doing nothing might do even more harm," said Professor Bradley. 



The team in Bradley’s lab has already shown that controlling invasive species is one of the strongest tools local communities can use to prepare for climate change. The researchers have tracked how invasive species numbers are rising rapidly.



In many ecosystems, plants and animals need to shift their range by at least 3.25 kilometers per year just to keep pace with warming temperatures and shifting seasons.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-good-candidates-for-relocation">Good candidates for relocation</h2>



The study was focused on the traits that determine whether a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-lettuce-nasas-plans-to-grow-nutritious-plants-on-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a> can successfully relocate - and whether it will become a problem after doing so.



Traits like rapid growth, long flowering periods, and seed dispersal by wind often help plants survive in new environments. But these same traits have also been used to flag invasive species.



“We often use specific plant characteristics - like how quickly a plant grows, how long it flowers or whether its seeds can be spread by the wind - to determine its risk of becoming invasive,” said Nuhfer. “But these are also traits that could help a native species to survive in a new environment.”



The study draws from a wide range of literature in both restoration and invasion ecology. The researchers also reviewed the risk assessment tools used by land managers. 



Their conclusion is that many traits promoting establishment are shared by both invasive and native species.



However, key differences emerge later - particularly when plants begin to spread. It’s in this phase that certain traits, such as size or toxicity, begin to distinguish potentially harmful species from those that simply need help surviving.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drawing-the-line-between-help-and-harm">Drawing the line between help and harm</h2>



Some traits, like a high metabolic rate, support a plant’s ability to establish itself in new surroundings. These traits apply to both native <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-absorb-31-more-co2-than-previously-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> and invasive ones. But other traits, especially those linked to unchecked growth or ecosystem disruption, raise red flags.



Large size, for example, not only helps plants establish but also enables them to dominate landscapes. This can lead to overgrowth and displace local flora. 



Toxicity is another trait of concern. While it doesn’t help a plant settle in, it allows it to repel herbivores and spread aggressively - potentially harming native species that share the habitat.



This creates a dilemma. If we avoid all traits associated with invasive species, we may end up ruling out the very traits that could help a plant survive. On the other hand, ignoring the signs of future invasiveness could create a new wave of ecological damage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-the-way-we-measure-risk">Changing the way we measure risk</h2>



The solution, according to the study, is not to ban all plants with certain traits but to refine our risk assessments. 



Current tools used by land managers often take a one-size-fits-all approach. If a plant shares any trait with a known invasive, it may be excluded from relocation efforts. That overly cautious approach could undermine the entire strategy.



“Many of the current risk assessments that managers are using in the field are so risk-averse as to guarantee that managed relocation will fail,” said Professor Bradley.



“And if the relocation fails, then we’ve wasted all sorts of resources and haven’t helped native plants persist," noted Nuhfer.



Instead, the researchers suggest focusing on traits that are most likely to lead to ecological harm - such as toxicity or seed dispersal by water - rather than those that simply help a plant get established.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-path-forward-in-a-warming-world">A path forward in a warming world</h2>



This research, supported by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usgs.gov/programs/climate-adaptation-science-centers/northeast-casc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Geological Survey Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center</a>, marks a pivotal moment in conservation thinking.



As climate change accelerates, strategies that once seemed risky are now essential. Managed relocation, when guided by science and nuanced risk assessments, could help preserve the ecological heritage of countless regions.



By learning from past mistakes and using precise criteria, scientists and conservationists may strike a balance - helping native plants survive without repeating the errors that let invasive species flourish.



The stakes are high. But with thoughtful, evidence-based action, we can give native species a fighting chance in a changing world.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/gcb.70145" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>.



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Native plants can’t outrun climate change on their own

Across the United States, a quiet crisis is unfolding in...

California,Wildflower,Super,Bloom,In,Carrizo,Plain,National,Monument,-

Flowers are more than just a sign of spring - they’re part of a natural rhythm shaped by light, temperature, and rainfall. Scientists are now studying that rhythm to better understand how our planet is changing.



A recent study has shown that wildflowers in California can be tracked from above using aircraft and space-based tools. 



The technology, originally designed by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (<a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JPL</a>), picks up subtle changes in color that occur during a plant’s life cycle.



These findings could offer a new way for farmers and natural-resource managers to monitor the health and timing of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-of-life-created-for-flowering-plants-using-400-million-specimens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flowering plants</a>, which are essential to ecosystems and agriculture.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-seasonal-plant-life">Monitoring seasonal plant life</h2>



Scientists from the <a href="https://umd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Maryland-College Park</a> and NASA’s <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goddard Space Flight Center</a> teamed up to test how remote sensing could capture large-scale flowering patterns.



They surveyed thousands of acres of protected land using a high-tech tool called an imaging spectrometer. 



Built by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, the instrument was mounted on a plane and scanned the land below as the plane flew along.



It recorded light in hundreds of narrow wavelength bands, far beyond what the human eye can see. This allowed it to map out the extent of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flowers-blooming-92-days-earlier-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blooming</a> and fading flowers over several months.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/wildflowers_monitoring_imaging-spectrometer_airplane_nasa_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/wildflowers_monitoring_imaging-spectrometer_airplane_nasa_1s.webp" alt="In this illustration, an imaging spectrometer aboard a research plane measures sunlight reflecting off California coastal scrub. In the data cube below, the top panel shows the true-color view of the area. Lower panels depict the spectral fingerprint for every point in the image, capturing the visible range of light (blue, green, and red wavelengths) to the near-infrared (NIR) and beyond. Spatial resolution is around 16 feet (5 meters). Credit: NASA" class="wp-image-1963384"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">In this illustration, an imaging spectrometer aboard a research plane measures sunlight reflecting off California coastal scrub. In the data cube below, the top panel shows the true-color view of the area. Lower panels depict the spectral fingerprint for every point in the image, capturing the visible range of light (blue, green, and red wavelengths) to the near-infrared (NIR) and beyond. Spatial resolution is around 16 feet (5 meters). Click to enlarge Credit: NASA</figcaption></figure>



It was the first time the instrument had been deployed to track vegetation steadily through the growing season, making this a "first-of-a-kind study,” according to David Schimel, a research scientist at JPL.



The study of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-butterfly-migration-sparked-by-a-surge-in-vegetation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a> in relation to seasons is known as phenology and it is important to botanists and agriculturalists alike. From wildflowers to crops, most flowering plants are triggered by shifts in weather and daylight length. 



In addition, scientists are increasingly focused on this connection to monitor how ecosystems respond to warmer temperatures and shifting rainfall patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-flowers-are-hard-to-track">Why flowers are hard to track</h2>



Field surveys and time-lapse photography have long been used to monitor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildflowers-are-self-fertilizing-to-deal-with-a-lack-of-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildflower</a> life histories. But those methods only offer a limited view.



“One challenge is that, compared to leaves or other parts of a plant, flowers can be pretty ephemeral,” said Yoseline Angel, a scientist from the University of Maryland-College Park and NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. “They may last only a few weeks.”



That fleeting nature makes it tough to gather reliable data, especially across large areas. Angel and her team turned to one of the most distinct traits of flowers - their color - as a way to study the timing of blooming from the sky.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-flower-color">Science behind flower color</h2>



The bright colors of flowers come from pigments that fall into three main groups. Carotenoids and betalains create yellow, orange, and red tones. Anthocyanins are behind the deep reds, purples, and blues. 



These pigments absorb and reflect light in unique ways, creating a “spectral fingerprint.” Using spectrometers, researchers can therefore scan light patterns to identify plants and even track changes as they grow and bloom. 



These tools have been used for decades to study Earth and other planets, but now they’re being fine-tuned to observe the seasonal changes in flowering plants.



In 2022, a spectrometer called <a href="https://avirisng.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AVIRIS-NG</a> (Airborne Visible/InfraRed Imaging Spectrometer – Next Generation) flew over two nature preserves in Santa Barbara County: the Jack and Laura Dangermond Preserve and the Sedgwick Reserve.



Among the native plants monitored were Coreopsis gigantea and Artemisia californica. The scans ran from February to June.



The team developed a method to differentiate the flower signals from soil, leaves, and shadows. In doing so, they captured 97% of the spectral differences among those features and were able to pinpoint flowering stages with 80% accuracy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-wildflowers-to-agriculture">From wildflowers to agriculture</h2>



This method could one day help track flowering plants across the globe. 



Since flowers make up nearly 90% of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thousands-of-plant-species-remain-unphotographed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant species</a> on land, this kind of remote sensing could support a wide range of work - from ecology to food production.



A key goal, Angel noted, is to support farmers and land managers who rely on flowering plants - along with the insects and pollinators that depend on them. These plants are vital for producing fruits, nuts, cotton, and even many medicines.



She’s now applying the same technique to data from <a href="https://earth.jpl.nasa.gov/emit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EMIT</a> (Earth Surface Mineral Dust Source Investigation), another NASA instrument that operates from the International Space Station.



While EMIT’s main purpose is to study mineral dust in dry regions, it can also detect plant pigments. 



By combining this space-based data with weather and environmental information, researchers may one day be able to predict events like <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/poppy-superbloom-in-the-california-desert/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superblooms</a> - rare bursts of flowers in the desert that follow heavy rains.



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



Superblooms are nature’s way of showing off. They happen when a rare combo of perfect weather conditions - like heavy rains after a long drought - triggers wildflowers to explode across a landscape in crazy, vibrant color. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/superbloom_carrizo-plain-national-park_california_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/superbloom_carrizo-plain-national-park_california_1s.webp" alt="Wildflower super bloom in Carrizo Plain National Monument - one of the best place to see wildflowers in California" class="wp-image-1963388"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Wildflower super bloom in Carrizo Plain National Monument - one of the best place to see wildflowers in California. Click to enlarge.</figcaption></figure>



Think entire valleys carpeted in orange poppies, purple lupines, and yellow goldfields, stretching as far as the eye can see. 



These blooms don’t just pop up anywhere; they’re most famous in arid places like California’s deserts, where wildflowers lie dormant in the soil, waiting years - sometimes decades - for just the right moment to wake up and party.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-citizen-science-and-the-joy-of-flowers">Citizen science and the joy of flowers</h2>



Angel said one of the most rewarding parts of her research is seeing how much people love flowers. 



“I have social media alerts on my phone,” she added, sharing how she stays updated on wildflower sightings around the world.



As flowers continue to signal the pulse of the planet, new technologies are helping us pay closer attention - from the ground, the air, and even from space.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ecs2.70127" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecosphere</a>.



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NASA tracks changes in seasonal flower cycles and migration patterns from the air

Flowers are more than just a sign of spring -...

In a major scientific milestone, a team of researchers has captured the first continuous, real-time footage of cellulose being synthesized and self-assembled into the intricate scaffolding that gives plant cells their structure.&nbsp;



Using advanced microscopy techniques and a custom-built imaging system, the team recorded 24 hours of this cellular construction process in living plant cells, revealing surprising new details about how plant cell walls are built.



The study, led by <a href="https://newbrunswick.rutgers.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rutgers University–New Brunswick</a>, provides an unprecedented look into the behavior of cellulose - the most abundant biopolymer on Earth.



The research also offers insights that could lead to stronger, more resilient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nanoparticles-unlock-a-new-way-to-genetically-modify-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crops</a>, cheaper biofuels, biodegradable plastics, and other sustainable products.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-closer-look-at-plant-cells">Closer look at plant cells</h2>



Cellulose is a key component of plant cell walls and plays a vital role in maintaining plant structure. It’s also a valuable resource used in countless everyday products, from paper and clothing to food thickeners and filtration materials.



Sang-Hyuk Lee is an associate professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Rutgers and a co-author of the study.&nbsp;



“This work is the first direct visualization of how cellulose synthesizes and self-assembles into a dense fibril network on a plant cell surface, since Robert Hook’s first microscopic observation of cell walls in 1667,” said Lee.



“This study also provides entirely new insights into how simple, basic physical mechanisms such as diffusion and self-organization may lead to the formation of complex cellulose networks in cells.”



The <a href="https://www.eurekalert.org/multimedia/1064673" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">videos</a> produced by Lee’s team show protoplasts - plant cells with their outer walls removed - from Arabidopsis, a relative of cabbage, as they spontaneously begin forming cellulose filaments.



These filaments grow outward from the cell surface in seemingly chaotic patterns, gradually coalescing into the highly organized structure of a new cell wall.



“I was very surprised by the emergence of ordered structures out of the chaotic dance of molecules when I first saw these video images,” Lee said. “I thought plant cellulose would be made in a lot more of an organized fashion, as depicted in classical biology textbooks.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-team-effort-across-disciplines">A team effort across disciplines</h2>



The breakthrough is the result of more than six years of collaboration between three Rutgers laboratories representing physics, engineering, and plant biology. Each group played a vital role in bringing the project to life.



When standard laboratory microscopes proved too limited to observe the fine detail of cellulose formation, Lee developed a specialized system based on total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy. 



This method allowed the researchers to image the cell’s underside with high resolution over long periods without damaging the samples.



Meanwhile, Shishir Chundawat, an associate professor in the Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering at Rutgers, led the development of a fluorescent probe system that tagged cellulose molecules so they could be visualized under the microscope. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-watch-plants-build-cell-walls">How to watch plants build cell walls</h2>



His team used a modified bacterial enzyme that binds specifically to cellulose to create the tagging system.



“I have always been fascinated by plants and how they capture sunlight via leaves into reduced carbon forms like cellulose that form cell walls,” said Chundawat, who is also focused on biofuel and bioproduct development. 



“I was inspired by collecting leaves as a middle school student. That early curiosity led me to delve deeper into biomass and its potential to create valuable, sustainable products.”



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/plant-cellulose_microfibril-network_illustration_credit-Ehsan-Faridi_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/plant-cellulose_microfibril-network_illustration_credit-Ehsan-Faridi_1s.webp" alt="Artistic rendering of cellulose regenerating on a plant protoplast cell surface with zoomed out view. Cellulose is synthesized by plasma membrane-bound enzyme complexes (green) and assembles into a microfibril network (brown), forming the main scaffold for the cell wall. Credit: Ehsan Faridi/ Inmywork Studio/ Chundawat, Lee and Lam Labs" class="wp-image-1963291"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Artistic rendering of cellulose regenerating on a plant protoplast cell surface with zoomed out view. Cellulose is synthesized by plasma membrane-bound enzyme complexes (green) and assembles into a microfibril network (brown), forming the main scaffold for the cell wall. Credit: Ehsan Faridi/ Inmywork Studio/ Chundawat, Lee and Lam Labs</figcaption></figure>



Eric Lam, a professor in the Department of Plant Biology, and his team developed the protocol to isolate protoplasts - cells stripped of their original walls. 



This provided a clean slate on which new cellulose fibers could be tracked as they formed in real time.



“This provided little to no background cellulose to confound our visualization and tracking of newly synthesized cellulose under optimized conditions,” Lam explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-agriculture-and-biofuels">Implications for agriculture and biofuels</h2>



The new findings are expected to inform future genetic and biotechnological efforts to enhance cellulose production in crops - improving traits like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-extreme-weather-events-are-escalating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drought</a> resistance, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turning-plants-into-carbon-capture-machines-with-cyanobacteria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon capture</a>, and the efficiency of biomass conversion to fuel.



“This discovery opens the door for researchers to begin dissecting the genes that could play various roles for cellulose biosynthesis in the plant,” Lam said.&nbsp;



“The knowledge gained from these future studies will provide new clues for approaches to design better plants for carbon capture, improve tolerance to all kinds of environmental stresses, from drought to disease, and optimize second-generation cellulosic biofuels production.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-chapter-in-plant-biology">A new chapter in plant biology</h2>



The Rutgers team’s work challenges the traditional textbook narrative of orderly cellulose assembly, showing that what appears initially as disordered movement eventually organizes into the essential structure of the cell wall. 



This finding adds complexity to our understanding of plant biology and could inspire future scientists to take a closer look - literally and figuratively - at the hidden processes that sustain life on Earth.



Animations aimed at young students often simplify how plant cell walls are made, but the Rutgers team’s research reveals that the real process is far more intricate - and far more beautiful.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.ads6312" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



Image Credit: Ehsan Faridi/ Inmywork Studio/ Chundawat, Lee and Lam Labs



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How plants build their cell walls is seen by scientists for the first time ever

In a major scientific milestone, a team of researchers has...

It's easy to think that older forests, with their diverse and well established trees, are better at storing carbon. Many assume that, as trees grow and ecosystems mature, they naturally become more effective at soaking up carbon from the atmosphere. 



A new study from scientists at the <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a> Biological Station challenges this assumption, however, and suggests that the reality is much more complicated.



The research team, which included more than 100 scientists over several decades, found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-forests-with-many-tree-species-are-more-effective-at-carbon-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon storage in forests</a> depends more on what's happening within the ecosystem than how old it is. 



Factors like the structure of the forest canopy, the types of trees and fungi present, and how nutrients move through the soil all play a bigger role than previously thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-at-two-centuries-of-change">Looking at two centuries of change</h2>



The research was conducted at the U-M Biological Station in Pellston, Michigan. This historic field site, founded in 1909, spans over 10,000 acres and has long served as a hub for studying northern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-rich-tree-diversity-adapt-better-changing-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest ecosystems</a>. 



Scientists used data from a wide range of forest stands on the property. Some were untouched remnants from the 1800s, while others had been logged or burned at different points in the 20th century.



At the heart of the study was a massive dataset that had been built over decades. It included information from the station’s 150-foot AmeriFlux tower, which tracks carbon dioxide, water, and energy flows between forests and the atmosphere.



Additional data covered everything from soil respiration and microbial activity to leaf litter, root growth, and nutrient cycling.



Luke Nave was the study's lead researcher and a faculty member at Michigan Technological University.



"Time is not what drives <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-release-carbon-faster-than-we-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon cycling</a>," said Nave. "Time is more of a playing field, and the rules of the game on that field are things like canopy structure, tree and microbial community composition, and soil nitrogen availability."



"That means that changes in things like structure, composition and soil nitrogen are what control forest carbon trajectories, whether those changes happen quickly or slowly, and whether we are influencing those changes through management or letting them happen on their own terms."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-long-term-carbon-research">The power of long-term carbon research</h2>



One of the study’s strengths lies in its use of both historical and current data. 



With so much emphasis on real-time monitoring, the researchers were able to paint a detailed picture of how carbon moves through forest ecosystems - and how that movement has changed over time.



"It's exciting to see the results of this study. It was a lot of work and many years in the making," said Jason Tallant, data manager and research specialist at the University of Michigan Biological Station.



"At the U-M Biological Station, we put a lot of effort into data curation and digitization. It's nice to see the carbon synthesis research team leverage our historic data sets and crunch real-time <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forest-modeling-study-reveals-new-insights-into-carbon-sequestration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon sequestration</a> information to illuminate what's happening in our forests and inform future management."



The project brought together a wide range of measurements, including fungal community studies, root production, carbon pool tracking, and soil enzyme activity. All of these factors helped the team understand how different pieces of the ecosystem influence carbon storage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-forest-management">Rethinking forest management</h2>



The takeaway from this study is clear: managing forests means more than just letting them grow old. 



If we want forests to help mitigate climate change, we need to pay close attention to their structure and species makeup, both above and below the ground.



"With the rates of change we're now seeing in things like climate, forest health and disturbance, and tree species composition, management will have to contend with more challenges and constraints all the time. What was true a decade or two ago can't be assumed as truth at this point," Nave commented.



"A good example for folks who know the territory is on the Burn Plots - the 1998 burn is a thriving young stand of post-clearcut aspen, and the 2017 burn is a regeneration failure. You might not think that 19 years is a long time to a tree, but it is in today's world."



"Researchers and managers who take a whole-ecosystem perspective like we did in the paper will have an easier time understanding what has changed over the last few decades and what we can do about it to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-forests-which-tree-species-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustain forests</a>."



This study reminds us that forests are dynamic systems, and treating them as such is essential for their health and their ability to store carbon. 



Simply counting the years isn't enough. Understanding what happens within those years is what really matters.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/eap.70001">Ecological Applications</a>.



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Older forests do not necessarily store more carbon

It's easy to think that older forests, with their diverse...

The blue lotus, a captivating water lily entwined with Egyptian mythology, has long dazzled archaeologists and historians. Its petals were famously found adorning King Tutankhamun’s mummy, and its image flourishes in ancient scrolls and temple art.&nbsp;



For decades, scholars have speculated that the flower held powerful psychedelic properties - used in wine-soaked rituals steeped in ecstasy and divine visions.



Today, a plant bearing the same name is sold widely online, promising everything from tranquility to heightened awareness. But according to <a href="https://www.berkeley.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Berkeley</a> anthropology student Liam McEvoy, those modern offerings have little in common with the true blue <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/how-does-a-lotus-flower-grow/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lotus</a> of antiquity.



McEvoy has spent years tracing the story of Nymphaea caerulea, the authentic Egyptian blue lotus. With a minor in Egyptology and support from the UC Berkeley Center for the Science of Psychedelics, he’s dug into ancient texts, collaborated with chemists, and even turned to Reddit to track down specimens.&nbsp;



McEvoy’s findings reveal that the plant revered in ancient Egypt is not the same as the water lilies currently sold in online marketplaces - and that both the species and its supposed effects have been widely misunderstood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-story-of-the-egyptian-blue-lotus-nbsp">The story of the Egyptian blue lotus&nbsp;</h2>



McEvoy’s journey began unexpectedly during high school when he stumbled upon an old BBC documentary called Sacred Weeds. In it, researchers gave participants wine infused with lotus petals and watched to see if they entered a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/magic-mushrooms-are-the-most-popular-psychedelic-drug/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psychedelic</a> state. The footage, complete with dated special effects and questionable methodology, left a lasting impression.



He was hooked. “I wanted to let the plant tell its story and contribute to a discussion where there's all this pseudoscience floating around - pseudoscience that makes some people a lot of money.”



Once at Berkeley, McEvoy dove deeper. Through coursework and work at the <a href="https://hearstmuseum.berkeley.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Phoebe A. Hearst Museum of Anthropology</a>, he learned to read hieroglyphs and came to recognize the true Egyptian blue lotus by its distinctive spotted sepals and consistent petal count.&nbsp;



It appeared again and again in scrolls and religious festivals, most notably in the Hathoric Festival of Drunkenness - an event where celebrants drank themselves into a stupor and awoke, if only briefly, to see the face of the goddess Hathor.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flowers-sold-as-blue-lotus">Flowers sold as blue lotus</h2>



The more McEvoy studied, the more he questioned whether the flowers sold online as “blue lotus” were the real thing.&nbsp;



Many of these products, often marketed as calming or aphrodisiacal, are used in teas, vapes, or essential oils. They claim effects ranging from spiritual insight to improved sleep. But were they really Nymphaea caerulea?



To find out, McEvoy needed a legitimate sample. With wild populations now rare - dam construction and habitat loss have pushed the species to the edge of endangerment - he turned to the internet.&nbsp;



On Reddit, he connected with a user in Arizona who claimed to grow authentic blue lotus. The stranger agreed to send a live plant, which botanists at UC Berkeley confirmed as genuine.



That plant now resides in the <a href="https://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Botanical Garden</a>’s Virginia Haldan Tropical House, making it the only known living Egyptian blue lotus in a U.S. university collection.



McEvoy also ordered petals from Etsy to compare. Partnering with Berkeley chemistry professor Evan Williams and scientist Anthony Iavarone, he used mass spectrometry to analyze both samples.&nbsp;



The results were clear: the authentic flower contained significantly higher levels of the alkaloid nuciferine, thought to be responsible for its psychoactive effects. The Etsy sample, by contrast, likely came from a common non-psychoactive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/japanese-lily-species-discovered-after-over-a-century/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lily</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-take-on-ancient-rituals">A new take on ancient rituals</h2>



In ancient Egypt, it’s often assumed that people steeped the blue lotus directly in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wine-production-in-a-warming-world-the-winners-and-losers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wine</a> to unlock its effects. But McEvoy’s chemical analysis suggests that’s unlikely.&nbsp;



While pure nuciferine dissolves in alcohol, the waxy petals of the flower do not release it so easily. Instead, a fatty substance - similar to olive oil - may have been used to extract the compound before mixing it into wine.



“We're beginning to think the ancient Egyptians didn't just put it into wine,” McEvoy said. “We hypothesize they actually created an infused oil, which was later added to wine.”



This revised understanding reframes centuries of assumptions about ancient Egyptian ceremonial practices and raises new questions about how they engaged with plant-based compounds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-searching-for-molecular-remnants">Searching for molecular remnants </h2>



McEvoy’s next steps include a chemical analysis of a 3,000-year-old Egyptian goblet housed in the Hearst Museum. He hopes to detect trace amounts of fats that would support his theory about infused oils - and perhaps even find molecular remnants of the lotus itself.



Together with Williams and Ph.D. candidate Veena Avadhani, he also plans to use liquid chromatography to break down the flower’s chemical makeup even further.&nbsp;



This advanced method will allow them to isolate individual compounds and gain a clearer understanding of what makes the true blue lotus unique.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-magic-and-modern-science-nbsp">Ancient magic and modern science&nbsp;</h2>



As McEvoy prepares to graduate and pursue a career in intellectual property law, he sees his work as a model for how science and the humanities can illuminate each other.&nbsp;



“There should be someone at the table who has studied people - not just economics, money or political science,” he said. “Someone who sees people as human beings and sees communities as interconnected webs of meaning.”



For now, he’s focused on finishing his research. But in doing so, he’s already redefined the story of a flower once believed to be mythic. His project not only separates fact from fiction in today’s lotus-laced health products - it reopens a window into the lived experience of an ancient civilization.



“This is a rare example of how ancient magic and modern science can come together to deepen our understanding of the nature that has always surrounded us,” he concluded.



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Blue lotus: Unraveling an Egyptian psychedelic mystery

The blue lotus, a captivating water lily entwined with Egyptian...

Climate change has long been framed as a battle between what humans emit and what nature can absorb. At the heart of this balance lies carbon sequestration - the process where plants, trees, and soils pull carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and store it.



For decades, this natural mechanism offered a quiet form of resistance against rising emissions. But now, researchers have uncovered a troubling shift: the Earth’s ability to absorb CO2 is weakening.



A new study by the <a href="https://www.strath.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Strathclyde</a> suggests that the safety net we once relied upon is beginning to fray. As sequestration declines, the race to cut emissions becomes even more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-must-reconnect-with-nature-now-to-save-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urgent</a>. 



While the planet continues to green in appearance, the inner mechanisms that drive long-term carbon storage may be breaking down. The implications stretch far beyond science - they strike at the heart of climate policy, land use, and our collective future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-is-storing-less-co2-each-year">Nature is storing less CO2 each year</h2>



The study reveals that natural sequestration once kept pace with growing emissions. In the 1960s, carbon sequestration grew by 0.8% annually. 



This increase suggested that as human activity released more CO2, plants and forests were also working harder to absorb it. That gave many scientists and policymakers hope that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-timing-is-drastically-changing-due-to-extreme-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural systems</a> could buy time as humanity worked on long-term solutions.



But that growth didn’t last. The research found that the sequestration rate peaked in 2008 and is now in decline - falling by 0.25% per year. The numbers show a concerning reversal.



If the 1960s growth had continued uninterrupted, natural carbon uptake would have increased by 50% between 1960 and 2010. Instead, if the current downward trend continues, nature’s ability to absorb CO2 could drop by half over the next 250 years.



The study, published in the journal Weather, offers a stark warning. As emissions rise and sequestration shrinks, the margin for error disappears. Carbon is staying in the atmosphere longer, intensifying the warming effect and weakening our natural climate buffer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-emissions-keep-climbing">Human emissions keep climbing</h2>



While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-climate-solutions-mixed-forests-store-more-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature</a>’s absorption rate drops, human-generated emissions continue to climb. The report states that emissions from human activities are growing at a rate of about 1.2% annually. That figure may seem modest, but when matched against a declining carbon sink, it becomes overwhelming.



To cancel out this increase, emissions would need to fall by at least 0.3% per year. That translates to about 100 million tons of CO2 annually. 



Achieving such a reduction would require global shifts in energy, transportation, agriculture, and consumption. It’s a monumental task - made harder by the realization that natural systems are no longer absorbing carbon at past levels.



The findings raise difficult questions about how much longer we can lean on forests and soil to balance our carbon books. 



For decades, policies around <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-forests-rose-again-after-the-planets-most-extreme-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reforestation</a> and conservation hinged on the assumption that sequestration would continue to improve. This assumption may no longer hold true.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-s-co2-rhythm-isn-t-enough-anymore">Nature’s CO2 rhythm isn’t enough anymore</h2>



James Curran, a visiting professor at Strathclyde’s Centre for Sustainable Development, co-authored the study with Dr. Sam Curran. He explained how the Earth's seasonal rhythms once helped maintain a carbon balance.



“Most of the Earth's land mass is in the Northern Hemisphere,” said Professor Curran. “During the northern summer, the abundant vegetation of the north absorbs a huge amount of CO2 from the atmosphere.



“In the northern winter, some of this CO2 is released back into the atmosphere through the natural biodegradation of dead vegetation, but a portion remains locked in roots, soil and dormant woody matter. The overall curve of CO2 concentrations still rises year-on-year, owing to additional emissions from human activity.”



This process, known as the seasonal carbon cycle, is visible in atmospheric CO2 data. Every year, levels dip in the summer and rise in the winter. But the long-term trend remains upward. The Earth’s vegetative cover can no longer absorb enough to offset what humans emit.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-loss-weakens-earth-s-defense">Biodiversity loss weakens Earth’s defense</h2>



Professor Curran emphasizes that restoring nature’s ability to trap carbon is still possible - but time is running out. Reversing the decline in sequestration will require deep investment in ecosystems. That means rethinking how we treat forests, wetlands, grasslands, and even agricultural land.



“It's urgent that every effort is made to rebuild biodiversity and associated ecosystem services, including sequestration. Deforestation must stop; rewilding must be encouraged; forest fires must be prevented,” said Professor Curran.



”For large-scale habitats, which are more resilient and offer enhanced ecosystem services, defragmentation must be prioritized; fossil fuels must be phased out; timber and fiber products must be reused for as long as possible, as part of a wider circular economy.”



These actions are not optional. They are necessary if we want nature to continue helping us in the fight against global warming. Yet restoring biodiversity is not just about planting trees. It involves protecting complex systems that depend on balance - between species, water cycles, soil health, and climate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greener-nature-doesn-t-mean-more-co2-absorption">Greener nature doesn’t mean more CO2 absorption</h2>



There is a common belief that as CO2 levels rise, so does plant growth. Higher CO2 can act like a fertilizer, making plants grow faster. 



This “greening” has been observed in satellite imagery, especially across cold northern regions like Canada and Russia. But this image of a greener Earth may be misleading.



“There was a widespread belief that sequestration was still increasing but would begin to decline at some point in the future, whereas data showed the fall was already underway,” said Professor Curran.



The assumption that more vegetation means better CO2 absorption is now in doubt. Plants may grow faster in warmer, CO2-rich conditions, but other pressures cancel out the gains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-web-of-threats-to-vegetation">A web of threats to vegetation</h2>



Curran explained why increased plant growth doesn’t guarantee more sequestration.



“It is known that increasing CO2 in the atmosphere acts like a plant fertilizer, while a warming world also allows vegetation to grow more rapidly and easily, particularly in the extensive chilly northern latitudes of Canada and Russia.



“Satellite observations are reported as seeing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-can-prevent-future-pandemics-by-protecting-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth becoming ‘greener’</a> as vegetation spreads. However, that simple assumption is countered by all the other effects that can kick in, including damage to vegetative growth by excessive heat, drought, floods, wind damage, wildfires, desertification and potentially wider spread of plant pests and diseases.”



These threats create a volatile and uncertain future for ecosystems. Heat waves and wildfires can destroy decades of growth in a matter of days. 



Drought can halt photosynthesis, stopping carbon absorption. Pests and diseases, spread by warming temperatures, can decimate entire regions of plant life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-can-still-absorb-co2">Nature can still absorb CO2</h2>



As the Earth’s capacity to absorb CO2 weakens, the pressure on human systems increases. Emissions must fall faster. Renewable energy must scale quicker. 



Land use must prioritize restoration, not destruction. Circular economies - where materials are reused and waste is minimized - must become the norm.



The study from the University of Strathclyde doesn’t just outline a problem. It offers a wake-up call. Nature, once our quiet climate ally, is losing strength. If we want to regain control, we must support ecosystems not just as scenery, but as active partners in climate stability.



Nature is still fighting. But without urgent human action, it won’t keep winning for much longer.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://rmets.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/wea.7668" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Weather</a>.



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Nature’s grip on CO2 is slipping: What it means for us all

Climate change has long been framed as a battle between...

For centuries, farmers have struggled to keep their crops safe. Droughts, pests, and poor soil are common challenges. But among the most silent and destructive enemies are parasitic weeds. 



These plants do not grow on their own. Instead, they cling to healthy crops and steal vital nutrients. In regions already battling food insecurity, the damage can be catastrophic.



Now, researchers at the <a href="https://www.ucr.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Riverside</a> may have found a unique solution. Their work focuses on a curious plant hormone and a clever trick: make the weeds destroy themselves. This breakthrough opens a new chapter in how we think about weeds, crops, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-future-climate-conditions-will-transform-plant-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survival</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parasitic-weeds-cause-major-crop-losses">Parasitic weeds cause major crop losses</h2>



In sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia, fields of rice, sorghum, and other staples often fall victim to parasitic weeds. These aren’t just nuisances. They can wipe out entire harvests. For farmers depending on a single crop to feed their families and communities, the loss is devastating.



Unlike typical weeds, these invaders don’t grow alongside <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-changing-skies-alter-plant-growth-patterns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crops</a>. They embed themselves into the host’s root system. Once attached, they steal water and nutrients directly. Crops weaken before they can fully develop. The result is lower yields, hunger, and economic hardship.



Farmers in these regions often lack access to strong herbicides or expensive biotechnology. That leaves them with limited tools to stop the spread. This is where UCR’s research offers new hope - by using the weeds’ own instincts against them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-parasitic-weeds-sense-plant-signals">How parasitic weeds sense plant signals</h2>



At the heart of this discovery lies a class of plant hormones called strigolactones. These chemicals, though not widely known outside of plant science, are extremely powerful. 



Inside the plant, the hormones help regulate growth, root development, and responses to stress. But their external role is even more fascinating.



“Most of the time, plant hormones do not radiate externally - they aren’t exuded. But these do,” said UCR plant biologist and study co-author David Nelson. “Plants use strigolactones to attract fungi in the soil that have a beneficial relationship with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-may-stop-absorbing-carbon-if-temperatures-continue-to-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a> roots.”



This natural relationship between fungi and plants benefits both sides. The fungi help gather nutrients from the soil, while the plant offers carbohydrates. It’s an elegant system - until parasitic weeds enter the picture.



The weeds have evolved to recognize strigolactones. To them, the hormone is a green light. When they detect it, they germinate and prepare to attack. That’s where the researchers saw their opportunity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tricking-parasitic-weeds">Tricking parasitic weeds</h2>



What if the weeds could be triggered to germinate when no host is present? Without a host, the weeds would sprout, fail to attach to anything, and die. This is the approach UCR’s scientists are testing.



“These weeds are waiting for a signal to wake up. We can give them that signal at the wrong time - when there’s no food for them - so they sprout and die,” Nelson said. “It’s like flipping their own switch against them, essentially encouraging them to commit suicide.”



This concept isn’t just theoretical. One parasitic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-how-climate-change-will-alter-plant-growth-cycles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a>, broomrape, produces thousands of seeds on a single stalk. Those seeds lie dormant in the soil for years. But once they detect strigolactones, they awaken. 



By releasing synthetic versions of the hormone at the wrong time, researchers aim to reduce their numbers before they can cause damage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-synthetic-hormones-in-the-lab">Building synthetic hormones in the lab</h2>



To control this process, scientists need a way to produce strigolactones outside the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-understanding-of-light-detection-in-plants-may-revolutionize-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a>. That’s where microbial engineering comes in. Led by Yanran Li, formerly at UCR and now at UC San Diego, the team created a novel system using bacteria and yeast.



The researchers engineered E. coli and yeast cells to mimic the chemical pathways found in plants. These microbes became tiny hormone factories. With them, the team could study each step of strigolactone production in a clean, controlled setting.



“This is a powerful system for investigating plant enzymes,” Nelson said. “It enables us to characterize genes that have never been studied before and manipulate them to see how they affect the type of strigolactones being made.”



Beyond research, this method may allow large-scale production of synthetic strigolactones. That could mean practical, affordable tools for farmers in the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-enzymes-and-possibilities">Evolution, enzymes, and possibilities</h2>



The team’s work also sheds light on how these hormones evolved. They identified a key metabolic branch point — an internal decision made by the plant to direct its chemicals either inward or outward. This may explain how strigolactones took on their unique role outside the plant body.



Understanding this evolution opens more doors. It helps scientists design more precise synthetic versions. They can fine-tune the signals to work in different environments or target specific weeds.



Researchers are continuing to test the strategy in more realistic settings. The idea sounds promising, but real fields are unpredictable. Soil types, weather, and local plant life all affect the outcome.



“We’re testing whether we can fine-tune the chemical signal to be even more effective,” Nelson said. “If we can, this could be a game-changer for farmers battling these weeds.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parasitic-weeds-reveal-wider-hormone-uses">Parasitic weeds reveal wider hormone uses</h2>



Though the research began with crop protection in mind, strigolactones may offer broader benefits. Studies suggest they might have anti-cancer or anti-viral properties. 



There is also interest in using them to fight citrus greening disease, which has devastated Florida's citrus industry.



Because they affect how cells grow and communicate, these hormones are catching the attention of scientists in medicine and environmental science. What started as a way to help plants may one day help people, too.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clever-solution-to-a-growing-problem">Clever solution to a growing problem</h2>



Parasitic weeds are a quiet threat to global food supplies. But this new approach offers a clever counterattack. By understanding and manipulating natural plant signals, researchers may have found a way to protect crops without harming the environment.



This work is still developing, but its promise is clear. With careful research, dedicated teams, and innovative tools, science may help turn one of nature’s sneakiest tricks into an advantage for farmers everywhere.



The study was made possible in part by the NSF-funded <a href="https://plants3d.ucr.edu/training/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plants3D</a> traineeship program at UCR. Led by Professor Julia Bailey-Serres, the program brings together biology, engineering, and creativity. Its goal is to prepare students for a future where food insecurity grows alongside climate change.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adp0779" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Can parasitic weeds be tricked into dying? Scientists think so

For centuries, farmers have struggled to keep their crops safe....

Photo,Of,Fresh,Pistachios,On,A,Tree

California grows nearly all of the nation’s pistachios, producing 99% of the crop and contributing close to $3 billion annually to the state’s economy. 



Despite their value, pistachios haven’t received as much scientific attention as other crops - mainly due to the absence of a complete, high-quality genetic map. But that is finally changing.



Scientists at the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Davis</a> have created the most detailed genome sequence of the pistachio to date. 



The work opens the door to developing better pistachio varieties that are potentially more nutritious and resilient to climate change. 



Alongside the genome, the team also charted the full development cycle of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-nuts-every-day-does-not-cause-weight-gain-but-it-does-improve-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nut</a>, offering insights that could help farmers grow and harvest their crops more efficiently and sustainably.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-sharper-view-of-pistachio-genetics">A sharper view of pistachio genetics</h2>



While previous studies have sequenced pistachio DNA, the new genetic map stands apart for its depth and precision.



“The improvement in accuracy of the new reference <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-genome-size-impact-evolutionary-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome</a> is like going from a hand-drawn map of a landscape to a satellite image from Google Earth,” said study co-author J. Grey Monroe, an assistant professor with the Department of Plant Sciences.



The team focused on the Kerman cultivar, the most widely grown pistachio variety in California. By zeroing in on this standard, the researchers made their findings directly relevant to commercial growers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-threatens-cold-loving-trees">Climate change threatens cold-loving trees</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/image/springtime-brings-greenery-and-dust-to-turkmenistan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pistachio trees</a> are famously tough. They handle drought and salty soil better than many crops. But they also have a weakness: they need cold winters to flower and produce nuts. 



Warmer winters in recent years, along with less fog in California’s Central Valley, have disrupted that process and reduced yields.



Since pistachio trees can live and produce nuts for up to 50 years, any decision about what to plant carries long-term consequences. With climate patterns shifting, growers are understandably worried about the future of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/megafire-smoke-has-long-lasting-impacts-on-orchard-trees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orchards</a>.



This is where the new genome map could help. It gives plant breeders a powerful tool to create new pistachio varieties that can adapt to warmer conditions while maintaining - or even improving - nut quality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-flower-to-harvest">From flower to harvest</h2>



The research didn’t stop at the genetic level. The team also tracked how pistachios develop over time, identifying four key stages from flowering to harvest. This includes when the shell hardens and when the kernel inside grows.



“Knowing how the nut changes through development will help farmers make better decisions, like when to water their trees, leading to more sustainable pistachio production,” said study co-author Bárbara Blanco-Ulate.



This information could also help farmers better time their harvests and reduce losses from insects or fungal infections. 



Beyond the physical stages, the researchers also studied the genetic activity at each step, offering a full picture of how the nut grows and changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pistachios-with-enhanced-health-benefits">Pistachios with enhanced health benefits </h2>



Pistachios are known for being a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-pistachios-daily-proven-to-boost-eyes-vision-and-overall-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthy snack</a> packed with protein and unsaturated fats. Now, researchers have pinpointed the specific genes and molecular pathways responsible for these benefits.



“We’re getting information about how all these nutritional characteristics are gained in pistachios and how we can improve that from a management perspective,” said Blanco-Ulate.&nbsp;



Understanding how nutrients build up in the nut over time could help producers fine-tune growing practices or even develop pistachios with enhanced health benefits and longer shelf life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-future-rooted-in-science">A future rooted in science</h2>



With this new genetic map and a clearer picture of how pistachios grow, researchers and farmers are better equipped to face the challenges of tomorrow. 



Whether it’s adapting to climate change or improving nut quality, California’s pistachio industry now has powerful new tools to work with - one gene at a time.



The implications go beyond scientific curiosity. As climate pressures intensify and global demand for nutritious, sustainably grown food rises, advances like these can help secure the future of an industry that supports thousands of jobs and contributes billions to the economy. 



From breeding better trees to optimizing harvest times, science is now firmly planted at the root of pistachio production.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/nph.70060" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a>.



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How pistachio DNA is shaping the future of farming

California grows nearly all of the nation’s pistachios, producing 99%...

In the face of climate change, forests have become more than green landscapes. They regulate temperatures, purify air and water, protect soil, and support biodiversity. 



Forests also absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in trees and soil, helping to reduce global warming.



Oceans do the same, but forests offer a land-based solution, one that we can manage directly. The idea of planting more trees has taken hold worldwide. But the story doesn’t end there.



Not all <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-are-losing-the-battle-against-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a> offer the same benefits. Some grow quickly, others slowly. Some survive tough climates, others do well only in ideal conditions. 



The challenge for forest managers is figuring out which trees will trap the most carbon where they are planted.



The answer lies in matching tree traits with the land on which they grow.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-global-study-seeks-answers">A global study seeks answers</h2>



To explore this issue, researchers from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INRAE</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agro-bordeaux.fr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bordeaux Sciences Agro</a>&nbsp;teamed up with global partners. The project brought together the&nbsp;French National Forest Office (<a href="https://www.onf.fr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ONF</a>)&nbsp;and the&nbsp;French National Center for Private Forest Ownership (<a href="https://www.cnpf.fr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CNPF</a>).



Together, they studied 223 tree species in 160 forest sites around the world. These included locations in Western Europe, the United States, Brazil, Ethiopia, Cameroon, and South-East Asia.



Each species was chosen to represent one of the world’s major forest biomes. The team focused on functional traits - specific characteristics that affect how a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-crops-a-path-to-feeding-the-world-and-saving-the-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree</a> grows, uses water and nutrients, and stores carbon. 



Their goal was simple yet ambitious: to identify which traits lead to better growth and carbon capture in real-world forest conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-old-beliefs-on-carbon-and-trees">Old beliefs on carbon and trees</h2>



For a long time, scientists believed that trees with acquisitive traits grew the fastest. These trees absorb resources like sunlight, water, and soil nutrients very efficiently. In controlled experiments, such as those in greenhouses, they outperform other trees in height, leaf size, and biomass.



Examples include maples, poplars, English oaks, and sessile oaks. These species have large leaves and long roots that gather nutrients quickly. Their leaves also contain large amounts of nitrogen, which supports rapid photosynthesis. All these features make them ideal candidates for storing carbon - at least on paper.



On the other side are conservative species. These trees invest less energy in fast growth. Instead, they survive by conserving internal resources like water and energy. Fir trees, downy oaks, and holm oaks fit this model. They usually grow more slowly but are better at handling environmental stress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-surprise-from-real-forests">A surprise from real forests</h2>



When the team took their research into real forests, their findings turned the old beliefs upside down. Under natural conditions in boreal and temperate zones, conservative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-forests-which-tree-species-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree species</a> actually stored more carbon and grew faster than acquisitive ones. That may seem surprising, but the explanation lies in how these forests function.



Boreal and temperate forests often have cold climates, poor soil, or both. In such settings, being efficient with internal resources becomes more important than fast nutrient absorption.



In tropical forests, the story changes again. These regions have ideal growing conditions - warm temperatures and high rainfall. Here, acquisitive and conservative species grow at similar speeds. Neither group holds a strong advantage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-matching-trees-with-their-environment">Matching trees with their environment</h2>



The biggest lesson from this research is that one size does not fit all. You cannot plant fast-growing trees everywhere and expect success. Tree performance depends heavily on local soil and climate conditions.



In rich, well-watered environments, acquisitive species like maples and poplars will outperform others. They can absorb nutrients quickly and convert them into biomass, storing more carbon. But in dry, cold, or nutrient-poor conditions, conservative species shine. Oaks, firs, and pines may grow more slowly, but they store more carbon over time because they survive and grow when others cannot.



The study highlights the need for precision in reforestation efforts. Forest managers must consider each site’s unique conditions. Planting the right <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-have-an-amazing-ability-to-adapt-to-new-climates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree</a> in the right place is far more effective than planting the same fast-growers everywhere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choosing-trees-for-better-carbon-impact">Choosing trees for better carbon impact</h2>



This new understanding gives forest managers a sharper tool in the fight against climate change. They can now look beyond growth speed and consider how a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-are-relocating-in-a-race-against-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree’s traits</a> interact with its environment. This leads to smarter choices and healthier forests.



Climate action often demands quick results. But nature does not always work that way. Sometimes the slow-growing, stress-tolerant tree is the one that captures the most carbon in the long run. 



With this knowledge, reforestation can become both more effective and more sustainable.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08692-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Slow and steady tree growth wins the race for carbon capture

In the face of climate change, forests have become more...

Cannabidiol (CBD) is popularly used for its painkilling, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. It has been used to treat illnesses like epilepsy and multiple sclerosis.



But there has been one key limitation preventing it from being used to its full potential - CBD does not dissolve easily in water, so the body has trouble absorbing it efficiently.



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.unisa.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of South Australia</a> have created a new method to address this issue.



By forming a phospholipid complex using a fat-based molecule that contains phosphorus, scientists have greatly enhanced CBD’s solubility and absorption in the human body.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-cbd-s-bioavailability">Enhancing CBD's bioavailability </h2>



Today, only a fraction of orally consumed CBD is absorbed into the bloodstream. This restricts its efficacy, and necessitates the use of increased doses to produce therapeutic effects.



Over the years, scientists have tried different methods to enhance CBD’s bioavailability, including using synthetic forms, self-emulsifying systems, and gelatine-based encapsulation. These attempts have only yielded minimal gains.



In the new study, researchers experimented to find the optimal composition of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/phospholipids-tiny-bubbles-that-may-have-been-earths-first-cells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phospholipids</a> to create nanosized CBD-PLC (phospholipid complex) particles.



The CBD-phospholipid complex particles enhanced dissolution from 0% (without the CBD-PLC particles) to 67.1% after only three hours. This tremendous improvement in drug release guarantees a more uniform and potent treatment for patients.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-more-stable-treatment-option">A more stable treatment option</h2>



In addition to better solubility, the phospholipid complex demonstrated a 32.7% increase in permeability during cellular uptake studies. 



This means more of the drug can pass through the intestinal wall, leading to greater absorption and improved therapeutic effects.



Traditional formulations degrade when exposed to heat, light, or oxygen, which reduces their potency over time. However, testing over 12 months showed that the new CBD-PLC formulation maintained its performance under various storage conditions. 



This makes it a more stable and reliable option for pharmaceutical use.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-cbd-based-therapies">Implications for CBD-based therapies</h2>



“Improved bioavailability means that lower doses can achieve the same therapeutic effect, potentially reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prenatal-exposure-to-cannabis-linked-to-health-risks-later-in-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">side effects</a> and making treatment more cost effective,” said study first author Thabata Muta, a PhD candidate at the University of South Australia.



This discovery could go beyond CBD. Many drugs with poor water solubility face similar challenges. 



The phospholipid complex approach may provide a blueprint for enhancing the absorption of other medications as well.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-road-to-real-world-impact">The road to real-world impact</h2>



With the international CBD market projected to expand from $7.59 billion in 2023 to $202.45 billion by 2032, this innovation comes at an opportune time. 



By overcoming a key challenge in CBD treatment, this technology could make cannabinoid-based therapy more accessible, affordable, and effective for millions worldwide.



The team is currently looking into commercialization prospects and preparing to conduct clinical trials that will confirm the recipe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-safer-cbd-based-medications">Safer CBD-based medications</h2>



CBD’s low water solubility has been a long-standing problem for scientists and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-could-revolutionize-drug-discovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drug</a> developers.



Nanoemulsions, liposomal carriers, and solid dispersions are some of the techniques that have been tried in order to increase the bioavailability of CBD.



Most of these techniques use complicated manufacturing processes, involve the inclusion of extra stabilizing agents, or don't deliver consistent absorption rates.



The phospholipid complex (CBD-PLC) of the UniSA research group is a more hopeful option. 



By naturally blending in with biological membranes, phospholipids aid in more efficient CBD transport by the digestive tract. This would render artificial surfactants obsolete, and so CBD-based medications could be safer and more tolerable in the long term.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-pharmaceutical-applications">Potential pharmaceutical applications </h2>



In addition to enhancing CBD for general consumer applications, this method may have a seminal role in pharmaceutical applications.



Patients dependent on CBD-based medication for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/medicinal-cannabis-reduces-epileptic-seizures-by-86-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">epilepsy</a>, multiple sclerosis, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cbd-can-help-ease-chronic-pain-anxiety-and-mood-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain</a> treatment are frequently exposed to unpredictable therapeutic responses because of the variability of absorption.



The improved solubility and stability of CBD-PLC might allow dosing to be more exact which, in turn, may decrease variability of drug action and side effects.



Pharmaceutical companies can also utilize this technology to create advanced cannabinoid medicines with better delivery systems. 



This may open the way for better pain relief, neurological therapies, and potentially even the use of CBD in mental health disorders like anxiety and PTSD.



In addition, by addressing CBD’s issues with bioavailability, this technology may help lower the dosage requirements, ultimately leading to safer and more economical treatments for patients.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/26/6/2647" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Journal of Molecular Sciences</a>.



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Revolutionizing CBD treatment for epilepsy and multiple sclerosis

Cannabidiol (CBD) is popularly used for its painkilling, anti-inflammatory, and...

Petunias are popular flowering plants known for their vibrant, trumpet-shaped blooms. They come in a wide range of colors, from white and pink to deep purple and red, and they thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil. 



Petunias are commonly grown in gardens, hanging baskets, and containers due to their easy care and ability to attract pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds. But what gives these simple plants their powerful fragrance? New research offers a clear answer.



Researchers have identified a homeotic gene called PhDEF. This genetic driver appears to be the key that unlocks the natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flowers-get-their-shape-and-scent-from-a-single-gene/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">perfumes</a> that petunias are famous for.



The study was led by Professor Alexander Vainstein from The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment at <a href="https://www.studyinjerusalem.com/?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=US+ALO+Google+Search&amp;utm_content=Brand&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwv_m-BhC4ARIsAIqNeBv6YbETNVnIQd00Yh8HWgtU4fA_aKfxm5oFm1uAlFq3p-wabMlXM-IaAmMrEALw_wcB" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Hebrew University of Jerusalem</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-flower-scent-to-genes">Linking flower scent to genes</h2>



Flowers need to draw <a href="https://www.nps.gov/subjects/pollinators/what-is-a-pollinator.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a>, so fragrance is a clever way to get noticed. This new work taps into how certain blossoms maintain both beauty and smell without sacrificing either quality.



Scientists have shown that one portion of the petunia’s genetic code can direct the creation of molecules behind the plant’s floral scent. One of the approaches used was <a href="https://www.cell.com/trends/plant-science/abstract/S1360-1385(20)30062-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">viral-induced gene silencing</a>, a method that quiets specific genes in living petals to see what happens next.



The researchers explored a wide variety of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flowers-as-food-how-ultrasound-makes-it-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">floral</a> structures. They found that stopping the target gene led to a major drop in scent compounds, though petal shapes remained normal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flower-scent-at-the-genetic-level">Flower scent at the genetic level</h2>



Scientists once believed that a gene responsible for shaping petals only influenced a flower’s form. However, it’s now evident that this same genetic code also affects its fragrance.



“Our findings show that PhDEF is not just responsible for defining petal identity but also for coordinating the production of scent compounds critical for pollination,” said Professor Vainstein. 



By activating multiple scent-related pathways, the gene helps a flower announce its presence to passing insects in an efficient way.



“This discovery advances our knowledge of plant biology and offers potential applications for breeding more resilient and pollinator-friendly crops,” added Professor Vainstein.



Petunias have long been studied for their aromatic chemistry. The ability to tweak <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-bees-value-quality-over-quantity-in-flower-selection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fragrance</a> at a genetic level could reshape how growers fine-tune plant characteristics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-with-stronger-scents">Plants with stronger scents</h2>



Gardeners often focus on appearance, yet a bloom’s aroma can be just as appealing. By knowing which gene can crank up scent production, <a href="https://www.ycp.edu/news/what-is-a-horticulturist" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">horticulturists</a> may soon have a reliable tool for selecting plants with richer aromas.



Though not all flowers share the same exact genetic makeup, this new finding might serve as a clue for researchers examining other species. The broader flower community may be on the verge of seeing more robust scents across store-bought varieties.



Building off this genetic insight could strengthen pollinator-friendly approaches. Plants that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bee-friendly-gardening-why-flower-diversity-is-so-important/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smell</a> stronger might have a better chance of attracting essential insects for natural crop yields.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-producing-better-fragrances">Producing better fragrances</h2>



Perfume makers always seek fresh ways to capture nature’s most pleasing scents. Understanding a single trigger for fragrance pathways may help refine how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-of-life-created-for-flowering-plants-using-400-million-specimens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">floral essences</a> are harvested or synthesized.



Innovators might combine genetic know-how with current extraction methods to produce more concentrated fragrances. Small changes at the molecular level could translate into a bigger impact on product quality.



This discovery also raises the possibility of creating scented plants that maintain their perfume for longer stretches of time. Consumers might one day see home gardens brimming with blossoms that smell stronger late into the evening.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-approach-to-floral-biology">New approach to floral biology</h2>



Plants use intricate chemical signals to communicate, and researchers suggest that more genes like PhDEF could await discovery in other species. By staying attuned to these genetic cues, scientists can enrich gardens and support pollinator health.



This fresh approach to floral biology could open up new avenues in scientific research, breeding programs, and product development. It captures how a flower’s smallest parts can have a big effect on entire ecosystems.



Petunia lovers may soon have more choices in seed catalogs. Growers might highlight fragrance as much as color, creating blooms that please the nose as much as the eyes.



The study is published in <a href="https://academic.oup.com/plcell/article/37/2/koaf027/8003630" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Plant Cell</a>.



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Scientists discover the gene that gives a flower its scent

Petunias are popular flowering plants known for their vibrant, trumpet-shaped...

Trees and parks not only add open, pleasant spaces to cities but also boost human health in multiple ways, from filtering air pollution to providing shade and cooling down hot urban areas. 



Many governments worldwide have announced bold plans to plant more trees over the coming years, partly due to climate change and rising temperatures. However, in heavily built-up cities, finding room for additional green spaces remains a pressing challenge.&nbsp;



The question becomes: How can municipalities best arrange trees in existing green zones to achieve maximum benefit?



That question has drawn the attention of researchers and city planners alike, who must factor in specific local conditions such as geography and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cities-are-largely-unprepared-for-the-effects-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-trees-and-human-health">Linking trees and human health</h2>



Investigators at <a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETH Zurich</a> have turned their focus to this issue not just within Switzerland, but also across Asia.&nbsp;



Through the work of a team from the <a href="https://fcl.ethz.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Future Cities Lab</a>, a program run in Singapore by ETH Zurich and the <a href="https://www.nus.edu.sg/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National University of Singapore</a> (NUS), researchers uncovered surprising connections between the way cities manage their trees and the general health status of residents.



The researchers’ first step involved analyzing high-resolution data on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-cities-lack-sufficient-canopy-cover-despite-visible-trees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree canopy</a> coverage within a 500-meter radius of each person’s home.&nbsp;



Beyond calculating the total area of tree clusters, they assessed how near these clusters were to each other, how they connected, how complex their shapes were, and how fragmented they appeared.



They then linked these details to survival data - specifically, the time to natural-cause deaths (due to age or disease) - for more than six million adults.&nbsp;



The records were provided by the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, which covered a decade from 2010 to 2019. To maintain privacy, the Federal Statistical Office had rounded each individual’s home coordinates to the nearest 50 meters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tree-canopy-cover-and-mortality-rates-nbsp">Tree canopy cover and mortality rates&nbsp;</h2>



Through careful data analysis, the researchers discovered that the extent of a neighborhood’s tree canopy and its layout were associated with mortality rates.&nbsp;



The study showed a significantly lower risk of death among residents living in areas with larger, more cohesive, and better-connected tree coverage, compared to those where the coverage was more fragmented or exhibited complex shapes.&nbsp;



This link was particularly clear in densely populated peri-urban or urban zones marked by poor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-quality-in-europe-has-improved-over-the-past-two-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality</a> and high temperatures. In such environments, efficiently structured forested spaces might deliver stronger health advantages than in more dispersed contexts.



Even though the findings offer an insightful initial glimpse, the researchers maintain that it is premature to pinpoint specific causes. They cannot yet say with certainty how tree canopy configuration positively affects people’s well-being.&nbsp;



Still, at the individual level, their outcomes broadly align with similar studies performed at the community level in Philadelphia, Tehran, and Taipei.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-isolated-green-spaces">Connecting isolated green spaces</h2>



Dengkai Chi is a postdoctoral researcher at the ETH Future Cities Lab and the study’s first author.



“Although we can’t yet define a direct causal link, when we have addressed factors such as age, gender and socio-economic status, the data shows clear correlations. Our results provide plausible indications that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-marine-protected-areas-boost-human-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human health</a> may be influenced not only by the quantity of trees but also by their spatial distribution,” said Chi.



These results demonstrate the value of considering carefully how trees are arranged. By deliberately planning a city’s green areas, officials can possibly extract greater health benefits for residents. 



“In order to fully exploit trees’ potential to support human health, cities should strive to not only increase the number of trees but also to connect isolated green spaces - including by creating tree-lined boulevards,” Chi said.



Interestingly, the study indicates that simpler, more compact patches of tree canopy - for instance, circular or rectangular shapes - might have a more beneficial health effect compared to complex, scattered forms.&nbsp;



One plausible reason is that simpler geometries yield bigger central zones, encourage ecological diversity, and possibly spur people to visit these green spaces more frequently.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-standards-for-urban-greening-initiatives-nbsp">Standards for urban greening initiatives&nbsp;</h2>



Despite these early observations, the researchers acknowledge that significant work remains. "We’re still at the very outset of this research,” Chi said. 



Multiple important factors could not be included in the study, such as pre-existing illnesses, smoking status, or whether individuals actually use local parks. Furthermore, the results apply to neighborhood scales and might not hold uniformly for an entire city.



Initial clues suggest that across a broader city, the effect on health might correlate with how fairly green spaces are distributed, ensuring that a large share of the population can reach them easily.&nbsp;



The team hopes to explore these aspects in further research, aiming to clarify the relationships between green space organization and health.



Chi points out that in developing policy suggestions for officials and planners, the research team will need to produce more quantitative assessments and identify precise thresholds. Such work could help define actionable standards for urban greening initiatives.



Overall, the study provides further confirmation that green infrastructure does not solely beautify urban settings but may also be tied to tangible health benefits.&nbsp;



As climate change urges administrators to plant more trees and as cities become increasingly crowded, focusing on the strategic placement and design of tree canopies may become just as critical as planting them in the first place.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2542-5196(25)00022-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lancet Planetary Health</a>.



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Urban tree layout influences human health and mortality rates

Trees and parks not only add open, pleasant spaces to...

Sunlight shapes life on Earth, driving photosynthesis, influencing weather patterns, and determining the growth of plants. While many assume that more sunlight directly results in better plant growth, the reality is far more complex. 



Plants respond not only to the amount of sunlight they receive but also to its quality, intensity, and distribution. Cloud cover, atmospheric conditions, and seasonal changes all play a role in shaping how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-rely-on-quantum-mechanics-to-transfer-energy-from-sunlight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> interact with light.



Understanding these interactions is critical for agriculture, especially in an era where climate change is altering weather patterns. 



Researchers at <a href="https://www.kyushu-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kyushu University</a> have taken a significant step toward unraveling the mysteries of sunlight behavior. Their study introduces a new numerical model that explains how sunlight behaves under different weather conditions. 



Published in the journal Ecological Informatics, the research could help farmers make more informed decisions about crop management and greenhouse farming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sunlight-and-plant-growth">Sunlight and plant growth</h2>



Plants rely on sunlight for photosynthesis, but more sunlight does not always mean better growth. Cloudy weather can sometimes be beneficial. 



On sunny days, light reaches plants from a single direction, leaving lower leaves in shade. In contrast, clouds scatter sunlight more evenly, allowing lower parts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-climates-force-plants-to-compete-with-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> to receive light. This balance influences plant development in ways that are not immediately obvious.



Study first author Amila Siriwardana is a PhD student at Kyushu University’s Faculty of Agriculture.



“Plants also respond to different wavelengths of sunlight. If you have ever seen a rainbow, you know that sunlight is made up of many wavelengths. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunlight-may-be-the-secret-weapon-for-direct-co2-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plants</a> sense these different wavelengths of light and alter their growth responses,” explained Siriwardana.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-adapt-to-different-sunlight-types">Plants adapt to different sunlight types</h2>



Plants detect the ratio of light wavelengths to gauge their environment. This ratio depends on cloud cover, atmospheric conditions, and the sun’s altitude. 



However, little research had categorized this information in terms of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-future-climate-conditions-will-transform-plant-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant physiology</a> and ecology. To bridge this gap, the research team collected yearlong sunlight data to examine daily variations in light quality.



“While many projects look at only the ‘energy’ produced by the sun, our methods set out to categorize both the ‘energy’ and ‘quality’ of light," said Professor Atsushi Kume, who led the team.



"By sorting sunlight into five categories, from clear skies to overcast, we can better understand how plants can adjust and respond to different light conditions." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collecting-and-categorizing-sunlight-data">Collecting and categorizing sunlight data</h2>



To measure sunlight under different weather conditions, the researchers used a spectroradiometer. This device captures the entire spectrum of sunlight.



The spectroradiometer was installed on top of Kyushu University’s Faculty of Agriculture building on Ito campus. The device recorded data from sunrise to sunset throughout 2021.



Using this information, the team built a machine learning model to analyze and predict sunlight variations. The model recognized patterns in weather conditions, including light intensity, scattering, air clarity, and humidity. 



Based on these factors, it classified sunlight into five groups. A clear sunny day belonged to group one, while overcast conditions fell into group five.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sunlight-changes-across-weather-patterns">Sunlight changes across weather patterns</h2>



The team observed clear patterns in how sunlight behaves and affects plants.



On bright, cloudless days, more light energy reaches the ground. However, as cloud cover increases, light intensity decreases while ultraviolet levels rise. 



Additionally, sunlight shifts in color from red tones on sunny days to blue hues under cloudy skies. Once trained, the model could predict sunlight patterns with high accuracy.



“Our method achieved 94% accuracy in predicting sunlight category without the need for expensive advanced equipment,” said Siriwardana.



“Our model is especially relevant for regions experiencing four distinct seasons similar to Japan's.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-applications-in-agriculture">Applications in agriculture</h2>



The research team sees potential applications for modern farming. Their model can help farmers adjust greenhouse conditions and optimize planting schedules throughout the year.



“We hope our model can be used to address the challenges in modern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-may-stop-absorbing-carbon-if-temperatures-continue-to-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agriculture</a>. Farmers can use this information to improve greenhouse conditions and planting schedules throughout the year,” explained Kume.



”For instance, during Japan's cloudy rainy season in June, farmers might adjust their greenhouse operations or crop spacing to maximize available light. Even in the fall and winter, when sunlight patterns change, farmers can adapt their strategies based on our model.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-the-research-scope">Expanding the research scope</h2>



Looking ahead, the team plans to extend their research to different climates, including tropical and high-altitude environments.



This would allow them to refine the model and explore broader environmental impacts of sunlight variations.



By deepening the understanding of how sunlight interacts with plants, the researchers aim to provide more tools for sustainable agriculture and climate adaptation.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1574954124004825?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecological Informatics</a>.



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How changing skies alter plant growth patterns

Sunlight shapes life on Earth, driving photosynthesis, influencing weather patterns,...

Increasing levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide are raising concerns about extreme weather and rising temperatures. They are also prompting scientists to examine how crops are responding to these changes, particularly in terms of yield and nutritional quality.



Global research on <a href="https://ripe.illinois.edu/blog/difference-between-c3-and-c4-plants" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">C3 plants</a>, which include wheat, rice, and many vegetables, suggests that extra carbon dioxide can raise <a href="https://www.saps.org.uk/teaching-resources/resources/157/measuring-the-rate-of-photosynthesis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis rates</a> in certain species. 



That might sound like good news, but the same studies flag worrisome drops in proteins, vitamins, and minerals - sparking concerns about <a href="https://www.childrens.com/specialties-services/conditions/protein-calorie-malnutrition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protein-calorie malnutrition</a> and <a href="https://www.childrens.com/specialties-services/conditions/protein-calorie-malnutrition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">micronutrient deficiency</a> in regions that already struggle with poor soil.



Felix D. Dakora from <a href="https://www.tut.ac.za/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tshwane University of Technology</a> and fellow researchers have studied these trends to find ways to guard future harvests against the pitfalls of high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-is-accelerating-beyond-control-as-co2-levels-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide exposure</a>.



The team examined both the reasons behind these nutrient drops and what can be done to lessen the damage. The study also highlights the ripple effects that might harm food security for billions of people across the planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dual-impact-of-co2">The dual impact of CO2</h2>



Elevated carbon dioxide often <a href="https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/10.1146/annurev-ecolsys-102209-144647" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">boosts</a> plant growth in C3 plants by improving water-use efficiency through lower stomatal conductance and <a href="https://cid-inc.com/blog/transpiration-in-plants-its-importance-and-applications/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transpiration</a>.



That can be a plus in regions where drought looms. Yet at the same time, certain crops end up with reduced nitrogen content, which dents the protein makeup. The research team reported a 7.4% decrease in wheat grain protein under <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-co2-emissions-rise-as-nations-tackle-fossil-fuel-dependence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">high carbon dioxide</a>.



Lower protein weakens the nutritional value of these grains. It may also bring about a rise in starchy components, which could lead to higher rates of diabetes in areas that already rely on carbohydrate-heavy diets. 



Some experts believe the shift in amino acids, vitamins, and mineral levels might be an even bigger worry down the road.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-dioxide-lowers-crop-nutrition">Carbon dioxide lowers crop nutrition </h2>



<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/nature13179" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientists</a> find that soil minerals, like zinc and iron, drop in grains raised in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-co2-emissions-rise-as-nations-tackle-fossil-fuel-dependence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon-dioxide-rich fields</a>. 



In maize, certain studies show lower levels of iron and copper that can hinder basic human dietary needs. This is particularly alarming in places where these nutrients are already scarce.



Experts note that reduced <a href="https://www.who.int/tools/elena/bbc/biofortification" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biofortification</a> traits in many crop varieties contribute to the problem. Slowed mineral uptake and altered enzyme activities also play a part. Under high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-carbon-dioxide-travels-in-the-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a> conditions, some plants downregulate processes that normally absorb and distribute minerals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategies-for-a-healthier-harvest">Strategies for a healthier harvest</h2>



Researchers recommend selecting crop genotypes that hold onto vital elements even when gas levels climb. Some varieties appear to lose fewer nutrients, and programs aimed at improving mineral uptake could protect farmers from yield losses. 



Shifting to more legume-based meals is another option. Beans and peas rely on <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/nitrogen-fixation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">N2 fixation</a>, which generally holds better under high carbon dioxide compared to mineral nitrogen sources in fertilizers.



Tree planting can lock extra <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-has-regulated-earths-climate-for-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a> into forests and farmland. Trees enhance soil structure and create a friendlier habitat for microbes involved in natural fertilization.



Some efforts, including large-scale planting of N2-fixing shrubs, may cut back on fertilizer use and slow the buildup of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-carbon-dioxide-travels-in-the-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gases</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crops-that-can-withstand-carbon-dioxide">Crops that can withstand carbon dioxide </h2>



Scientists are turning to <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9570104/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence</a> (AI) and high-tech breeding to pinpoint genetic traits that help crops cope with carbon dioxide surges. 



Tools that assess growth, water usage, and nutrient density help experts spot patterns hidden to the naked eye. By mixing big data with genomics, plant breeders can zero in on seeds that are more resilient, saving both time and resources.



AI also allows researchers to simulate future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-has-regulated-earths-climate-for-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conditions</a> more accurately. This leads to better predictions for how certain crop lines will adapt. 



Optimizing for stronger nutrient uptake may keep harvests robust and nutritious, ensuring fewer communities suffer malnutrition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diverse-crops-reduce-the-impacts">Diverse crops reduce the impacts</h2>



Planting diverse species that can thrive under changing conditions helps build a buffer for unpredictable swings in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-emissions-reduction-20-percent-possible-only-2-percent-economic-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a>. 



Combining species with strong <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/what-carbon-sequestration" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon uptake</a> could also reduce the negative side effects of high carbon dioxide. Drawing on local biodiversity and building varied cropping systems often stabilizes production and dietary quality.



Communities near desert regions, where farmland is fragile, might see benefits from more shrubs and trees suited to local conditions. These species could capture extra carbon while strengthening the soil for staple crops. 



Experts say small-scale experiments are already successful in certain parts of Africa, building new paths toward long-term food security.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-tomorrow-s-food-supply">Protecting tomorrow’s food supply</h2>



Many scientists emphasize the need to explore how carbon dioxide interacts with other factors like temperature and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-declared-ocean-pollutant-international-court-ruling/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme weather events</a>. 



Finding ways to keep proteins, amino acids, and essential minerals from eroding will be key to meeting global nutrition standards.



Switching to diets richer in legumes and vegetables may trim <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-20406-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas emissions</a> from livestock. This can also bring more variety to local plates, adding proteins and minerals that cereals under carbon stress might lack.



Meanwhile, regional approaches to reforestation and soil restoration can draw down some portion of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-emissions-reduction-20-percent-possible-only-2-percent-economic-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric carbon</a>.



Policy shifts will matter, too. If governments support research into better seed varieties and push for climate-smart irrigation methods, farmers will be more prepared. Collaboration between scientists, local communities, and industry groups could speed up large-scale solutions.



People who depend on common grains may have the most to lose from inaction. By staying alert to nutrient drops now, it may be possible to avoid bigger crises later. 



The study is published in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095809924007355" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Engineering</a>.



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Rising carbon dioxide makes crops grow bigger but less nutritious

Increasing levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide are raising concerns about...

The spotted lanternfly has become a growing concern across the United States. Since its first detection in 2014, this invasive pest has spread across at least 18 states, wreaking havoc on vineyards, orchards, and nursery industries. 



The damage caused by lanternflies threatens agricultural businesses and the environment, pushing scientists to find effective management strategies.



Traditionally, chemical insecticides have been the primary tool for controlling these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flies-like-to-play-and-have-fun-like-other-animals-according-to-a-fascinating-new-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pests</a>. However, reliance on chemical solutions comes with risks, including pesticide resistance and unintended harm to beneficial species. 



Researchers at <a href="https://www.psu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a> have been exploring alternative solutions, looking toward nature’s own pest controllers for answers. 



Their study highlights the role of native insect predators in reducing spotted lanternfly populations. The findings suggest that these natural enemies could provide a sustainable and long-term approach to managing the infestation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-predators-of-spotted-lanternflies">Natural predators of spotted lanternflies</h2>



Scientists at Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences conducted extensive research to determine which natural predators could help control spotted lanternflies. 



They focused on insects already present in the United States, hoping to identify species that could effectively hunt and reduce lanternfly numbers without the need for chemical intervention.



The team examined the feeding behavior of various predators, including spined soldier bugs, Carolina mantises, and Chinese mantises.



These insects, already known for preying on agricultural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-some-birds-lose-the-ability-to-fly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pests</a>, showed promise in targeting spotted lanternflies. The research suggests that conserving these beneficial predators could serve as a natural and environmentally friendly method for reducing lanternfly populations.



“Our study shows that several native and naturalized predators can consume spotted lanternflies effectively,” said lead researcher and doctoral candidate Anne Johnson, who conducted the study with Kelli Hoover, professor of entomology. 



“By leveraging natural enemies already in the environment, we hope to develop a sustainable, low-impact approach to managing this invasive species that will complement other control methods.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-with-chemical-control-methods">Challenges with chemical control methods</h2>



Current efforts to control spotted lanternflies primarily rely on insecticides. While effective in the short term, these chemicals pose significant risks. 



Over time, pests can develop resistance, making chemical treatments less effective. Additionally, insecticides can harm non-target species, including beneficial insects essential for maintaining ecological balance.



Johnson emphasized that biological control, which utilizes natural predators to regulate pest populations, offers a more sustainable alternative. 



By promoting predator populations, researchers hope to reduce dependence on chemical interventions and create a longer-lasting solution to the lanternfly problem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-defenses-of-the-spotted-lanternfly">Natural defenses of the spotted lanternfly</h2>



In its native habitat in southeastern Asia, the spotted lanternfly has natural predators, including parasitic wasps that help regulate its numbers. 



However, introducing foreign species into a new environment requires extensive environmental impact studies and regulatory approvals, which can take years to complete. The <a href="https://www.usda.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Department of Agriculture</a> and university researchers are currently conducting these studies to assess potential risks and benefits.



One of the challenges researchers faced was understanding whether U.S. predators could effectively hunt lanternflies. Some invasive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragonflies-develop-waxy-coating-to-withstand-warmer-climates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> develop natural defenses that make them unappealing or even toxic to potential predators.



“The spotted lanternfly’s ability to sequester toxins from its preferred host, the tree of heaven, raises concerns about its vulnerability to predators,” Johnson said. 



“We hypothesized that the spotted lanternfly might harness the tree’s bitter-tasting chemical compounds as a defense mechanism that could protect them against predation.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predator-efficiency-in-controlled-settings">Predator efficiency in controlled settings</h2>



To evaluate the effectiveness of different predators, Johnson and Hoover tested ten generalist species, including spined soldier bugs, praying mantises, wheel bugs, lady beetles, and lacewings. Each predator was placed in an enclosure with either 25 spotted lanternfly nymphs or 10 adults for a week.



The results showed that spined soldier bugs and two praying mantis species were the most successful at reducing lanternfly populations. Regardless of the lanternflies’ life stage, these predators actively hunted and consumed them.



Eight-spined soldier bugs proved particularly efficient. They hunt in groups, allowing them to attack and consume prey more effectively. In controlled experiments, these bugs eliminated all lanternflies in their enclosures within three to four days. 



Additionally, researchers found that the predators consumed spotted lanternflies regardless of whether they had fed on tree of heaven or alternative host plants.



“These findings are fascinating because they suggest that natural predators could be incorporated into integrated pest management strategies,” Johnson said. “By conserving and encouraging populations of these beneficial insects, we may be able to reduce the use of chemical controls.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observations-of-lanternfly-predators">Observations of lanternfly predators </h2>



Before conducting their controlled experiments, researchers gathered data from community science efforts. 



From 2020 to 2022, Johnson invited the public to report sightings of birds and insects preying on spotted lanternflies. Through social media platforms like Facebook, nearly 2,000 reports were collected. These observations provided scientists with valuable clues about which predators to study in greater detail.



This collaboration between researchers and the public helped confirm that native insects could be effective in spotted lanternfly control. While anecdotal reports do not replace laboratory testing, they offer useful insights that can guide future research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-a-standalone-solution">Not a standalone solution</h2>



While the study’s findings are promising, Johnson and Hoover stress that predator-based control methods should not be seen as a standalone solution. 



The next phase of research will involve field experiments to assess how well these predators perform in natural environments where variables such as weather, prey availability, and habitat conditions play a role.



“While these insects could help keep spotted lanternfly populations in check someday, we recognize that their impact may be limited by consistent presence of sufficient prey and the use of insecticides that can also kill these generalist predators,” Hoover said. 



“Therefore, they should be considered part of a broader integrated pest management strategy rather than a standalone solution.”



Johnson recommends that those interested in additional management techniques consult Penn State Extension’s Spotted Lanternfly Management Guide, which provides practical solutions for controlling the pest. The guide is available for download from the extension website.



The research was a collaborative effort, bringing together experts in entomology and ecology. The study was co-authored by Sara Hermann, a professor of arthropod ecology at Penn State.



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11829-025-10138-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arthropod-Plant Interactions</a>.



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Native insects can lead the battle against the spotted lanternfly

The spotted lanternfly has become a growing concern across the...

Pot-stewed duck neck is a popular snack that often runs into trouble with rapid spoilage. It has plenty of moisture and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-a-protein-that-reverses-cellular-aging/">protein</a>, which can turn it into a breeding ground for unwanted bacteria in record time.



<a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Wei-Liu-41" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Wei Liu</a> from Nanchang University, China, led a research project showing how a new approach can protect this snack. The team focused on capturing the benefits of <a href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/essential-oils-101-do-they-work-how-do-you-use-them" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">essential oils</a> to keep meat products fresh for longer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-pot-stewed-duck-neck">Understanding pot-stewed duck neck</h2>



Pot-stewed duck neck, or PSDN, is loved across Asia for its rich flavor. Many people enjoy it as a casual treat at family gatherings or during work breaks.



Since it contains a high water content and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/farmed-salmon-diet-would-be-beneficial-for-humans/">vital nutrients</a>, it becomes an easy target for microbial growth. Synthetic preservatives can limit bacterial and fungal activity, but they raise consumer concerns about added chemicals in everyday meals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-essential-oils">Why essential oils?</h2>



Scientists studied <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-coffee-is-missing-these-five-brain-boosting-spices/">cinnamon</a> and zanthoxylum extracts for their ability to fight off unwelcome microbes. Essential oils extracted from these plants are known to keep certain harmful bacteria at bay.



Cinnamon, in particular, contains aromatic compounds that can hinder bacterial development. Zanthoxylum is also valued in cooking for its ability to enhance taste.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fresh-twist">The fresh twist</h2>



In this study, the researchers solidified these fragile oils within a structure made from <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0963996923013194" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">porous starch</a>. This structure was then reinforced by a dual-layer of chitosan and sodium alginate, and sealed with calcium to lock the oils in place.



The result was a solid preservative with a slow release of active elements, which cut down on harsh odors. This method gives the snack’s surface a reliable way to absorb the antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits of the oils over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-it-helps-pot-stewed-duck-neck">How it helps pot-stewed duck neck</h2>



Tests revealed that the product maintained its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blue-cheese-now-comes-in-more-colors-than-just-blue/">flavor and color</a> for at least twice as long as usual when the essential oil preservative was used. Researchers noted that shelf life was extended to about 3 days at 77 °F (25 °C) and around 11 days at 39.2 °F (4 °C), which is a big improvement for a ready-to-eat food.



Lower levels of chemical byproducts linked to rancidity were also documented in the food. This shift in freshness can bring peace of mind to both snack lovers and shop owners, cutting down on waste while giving folks more time to enjoy their purchase.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-avoiding-chemical-pitfalls">Avoiding chemical pitfalls</h2>



Consumers read ingredient labels more carefully now than ever before. Many shy away from <a href="https://academicreads.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/A-Realistic-View-of-Essential-Oils-as-Antibacterial-Agents-for-Ready-to-Eat-Fruits-and-Vegetables.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">synthetic preservatives</a>, worried about possible long-term health issues.



Plant-derived substances answer that concern by offering a more natural route. This alternative underscores the appeal of essential oils in prolonging freshness in meats and other staples.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-application">Practical application</h2>



The concept behind the solid preservative can be applied to multiple meat snacks. Busy households could store these items for longer without fear of mold or rancid tastes.



Food businesses might use this method to meet consumer demand for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-say-this-is-the-best-fruit-to-eat-for-a-healthier-liver/">healthier</a> options. It can also reduce the number of products returned due to spoilage, which boosts efficiency.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-food-industry">Impact on food industry</h2>



Meat processors already struggle with strict quality and safety demands. An idea like this can be adapted for broader use, possibly covering everything from sausages to deli slices.



Handling time and transport conditions often weaken <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diet-quality-briefly-improved-during-the-pandemic/">food quality</a>. Slowing bacterial growth and oxidation rates can help producers keep up with stricter standards and maintain consistent supply.



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



Strong-smelling oils might overwhelm sensitive palates. This technology addresses that concern by gradually releasing the oils, and limiting sharp odors.



The slower release rate keeps the snack’s core flavor front and center. That matters to anyone who craves a well-seasoned duck neck without a lingering herbal punch.



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



The method seems promising for more than just pot-stewed duck neck. Encapsulation and controlled release could also work well for other perishable items like marinated poultry or chilled seafood.



Scientists plan to keep examining different combinations of natural agents in search of palatable and efficient solutions. Matching the right structure and oils might open doors to even safer, tastier snacks.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0956713525000830">Food Control</a>.



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Natural preservation method slows down bacterial growth in meat products

Pot-stewed duck neck is a popular snack that often runs...

A region in China’s Turpan-Hami Basin served as a refugium - or “life oasis”- for terrestrial plants during the end-Permian mass extinction. This event is widely recognized as the most severe biological crisis since the Cambrian period.&nbsp;



The discovery of this life-saving refuge, which is detailed in a recent study,&nbsp;challenges the longstanding belief that land-based ecosystems experienced catastrophic losses on par with marine environments at that time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evidence-of-a-life-oasis-on-land">Evidence of a “life oasis” on land</h2>



The research team was led by Professor Liu Feng from the <a href="http://english.nigpas.cas.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nanjing Institute of Geology and Palaeontology</a> (NIGPAS) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.



According to Professor Feng, the Turpan-Hami Basin offered a protective area where terrestrial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-use-underground-networks-to-eavesdrop-on-their-neighbors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a> communities remained largely intact.&nbsp;



Rather than succumbing to widespread die-off, these plant populations continued evolving, ultimately facilitating a more rapid ecological recovery. Thus, these pockets of resilience played a crucial role in the rebound of life on Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reevaluating-the-end-permian-crisis">Reevaluating the end-Permian crisis</h2>



Occurring roughly 252 million years ago, the end-Permian mass extinction decimated over 80% of marine species. However, its impact on terrestrial life has been less certain.&nbsp;



One common explanation is that catastrophic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-cooling-not-warming-caused-a-major-mass-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic eruptions</a> in Siberia caused extreme conditions, including wildfires and toxic gases.&nbsp;



Researchers previously based this theory on the progressive loss of the Gigantopteris flora in South China and the Glossopteris flora across Gondwanaland around the same time as the extinction.



Opposing views argue that the lethal effects were not universal, but limited by latitude and atmospheric circulation. Some fossil evidence suggests certain Mesozoic plant species actually predating the extinction, pointing to gradual transitions rather than abrupt collapse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-examining-ancient-pollen-and-spores-nbsp">Examining ancient pollen and spores&nbsp;</h2>



Central to the study’s discoveries is the South Taodonggou section in Xinjiang Province. 



The researchers examined ancient pollen and spores and using precise radiometric dating based on a Bayesian age model developed by Professor Yang Wan of the <a href="https://www.mst.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Missouri University of Science and Technology</a>.



The team detected an unbroken record of riparian fern fields and coniferous forests spanning from 160,000 years before the extinction started to 160,000 years after it ended.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/life-oasis_end-Permian_illustration_credit-Yang-Dinghua_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/life-oasis_end-Permian_illustration_credit-Yang-Dinghua_1s.webp" alt="Artistic reconstruction of the terrestrial ecological landscape after the end Permian mass extinction based on fossil palynomorphs, plants, and tetrapods recovered, as well as sedimentological data from the South Taodonggou Section. Credit: Yang Dinghua" class="wp-image-1962551"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Artistic reconstruction of the terrestrial ecological landscape after the end Permian mass extinction based on fossil palynomorphs, plants, and tetrapods recovered, as well as sedimentological data from the South Taodonggou Section. Credit: Yang Dinghua</figcaption></figure>



“The presence of intact tree trunks and fern stems further confirms that these microfossils represent local vegetation, not transported remnants,” said Wan Mingli, a scientist at NIGPAS.



The evidence implies that certain plants vanished locally, but the overall loss of spore and pollen species in the South Taodonggou section could have been about 21% - much lower than the known marine extinction level at the time.&nbsp;



Many seemingly extinct species reappeared in Early Triassic layers elsewhere, indicating they may have migrated rather than disappeared altogether.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-recovery-and-ecological-diversity">Rapid recovery and ecological diversity</h2>



A stable vegetation foundation apparently sped up ecological resurgence in this “life oasis.”&nbsp;



Fossil data shows that just 75,000 years after the extinction ended, the region already supported a range of terrestrial vertebrates, such as the herbivorous Lystrosaurus and carnivorous chroniosuchians.&nbsp;



This contradicts earlier assumptions that ecosystems took over a million years to recover following the end-Permian extinction. In this area, it happened more than ten times faster.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/life-oasis_end-Permian_palynomorphs_illustration_credit-Yang-Dinghua_1big.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/life-oasis_end-Permian_palynomorphs_illustration_credit-Yang-Dinghua_1s.webp" alt="Artistic reconstruction of the terrestrial ecological landscape after the end Permian mass extinction based on fossil palynomorphs, plants, and tetrapods recovered, as well as sedimentological data from the South Taodonggou Section. Credit: Yang Dinghua" class="wp-image-1962553"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Artistic reconstruction of the terrestrial ecological landscape after the end Permian mass extinction based on fossil palynomorphs, plants, and tetrapods recovered, as well as sedimentological data from the South Taodonggou Section. Credit: Yang Dinghua</figcaption></figure>



The researchers attribute such resilience to the region’s semi-humid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-chaos-the-mass-extinction-that-reshaped-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a> and steady rainfall, evaluated through paleosol analysis. 



The Turpan-Hami Basin consistently received around 1,000 millimeters of precipitation annually, providing lush vegetation and an environment beneficial to migrating wildlife.



Despite its apparent proximity to volcanic activity believed to have spurred the extinction, the basin functioned as a safe haven for terrestrial life, illustrating how even seemingly threatened areas can preserve crucial biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-pockets-of-resilience">Surprising pockets of resilience</h2>



“This suggests that local climate and geographic factors can create surprising pockets of resilience, offering hope for conservation efforts in the face of global environmental change,” Feng said.&nbsp;



The existence of such a shelter for plants during the crisis calls into question the scope and uniformity of land-based mass extinctions. In some locales, climates and landscapes worked in concert to protect certain species from the worst consequences.



As modern science grapples with the possibility of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extinction-crisis-entire-branches-of-earths-tree-of-life-are-vanishing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sixth mass extinction</a> - potentially driven by human impacts - these findings underscore the importance of discovering and safeguarding present-day refugia.&nbsp;



By identifying environments where life can endure, even amid large-scale devastation, conservationists might replicate and preserve these safe harbors for future generations.



The study was published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.ads5614" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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'Life oasis' provided refuge for plants during Earth's worst extinction event

A region in China’s Turpan-Hami Basin served as a refugium...

For decades, tool use was seen as the hallmark of human evolution. Later, researchers began to notice this skill in chimpanzees, crows, and even sea otters. But one group remained conspicuously absent from this conversation - fish.



They were thought to be too simple, too instinct-driven, and too limited in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chimpanzees-select-the-best-materials-for-termite-fishing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive ability</a>. That belief no longer holds.



A new study has revealed something remarkable: several wrasse species have been observed using hard surfaces to break open prey. 



These behaviors don’t just challenge assumptions - they expand the very definition of what it means to be intelligent.



Dr. Juliette Tariel-Adam, the study’s lead author from Macquarie University, has spent years watching these small but clever reef fish. Her team tracked and recorded behaviors that were previously dismissed or unnoticed.



"Tool use is typically associated with humans, but this behavior is proof that fish are far cleverer than they get credit for," said Dr. Tariel-Adam.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fish-use-tools-to-smash-prey">Fish use tools to smash prey</h2>



Wrasses are colorful reef fish found in warm oceans across the world. In this study, several <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-evolve-rapidly-by-switching-between-simple-and-complex-teeth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> were observed picking up crabs, mollusks, and brittle stars in their mouths and striking them against rocks or coral heads. 



This behavior is known as “anvil use,” a form of tool use that allows the fish to access prey they otherwise couldn’t consume.



The wrasses showed clear intentionality. They didn’t just drop their prey. They positioned it, swung their bodies with force, and adjusted their angles between strikes. They seemed to know what they were doing. This wasn’t random behavior - it was targeted, practiced, and often successful.



The study documented 16 new observations across five species within the New World Halichoeres group. Three of those species had never been seen using tools before. Two others were suspected to use tools, but now video evidence confirms this.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tool-use-across-oceans">Tool use across oceans</h2>



These discoveries were made possible by a community <a href="https://fishtooluse.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">science initiative</a> called Fish Tool Use. 



Through social media outreach, emails, and public engagement, the research team gathered videos and reports from divers and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-oldest-fish-coelacanth-presumed-extinct-for-60-million-years-before-rediscovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine</a> enthusiasts. 



The observations came from Brazil, Colombia, the Turks and Caicos Islands, and beyond.



All five species observed belong to a closely related group in the Labridae family, the second most species-rich group of marine fish. 



The team believes this behavior may have evolved in a common ancestor and persisted across related species.



Alternatively, anvil use may have emerged multiple times independently - a question that future research may help to answer.



"With these newly discovered tool-using species, it becomes clear that many species of wrasses use tools that we previously didn't know about," said Dr. Tariel-Adam.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flexibility-of-fish-tool-use">Flexibility of fish tool use</h2>



One surprise in the study was the absence of laterality. In primates and crows, tool use often involves a dominant hand or claw. 



Wrasses, however, appeared to use both sides of their bodies equally. In video analyses, they struck with either side depending on their position in the water.



This flexibility might offer an advantage. While lateralized tool use can be efficient, it also limits an animal’s options when environment or position changes. 



Wrasses, on the other hand, can exploit anvils in any orientation, giving them a broader range of usable surfaces.



In addition, wrasses used many different types of anvils. Rocks, coral heads, rubble, even a live conch shell - all served the same purpose. They did not show strict preferences. They adapted to what was around them.



This suggests not only cognitive flexibility but a level of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-deep-sea-fish-survive-the-crushing-depths-of-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental awareness</a> as well.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-and-competition-on-the-reef">Food and competition on the reef</h2>



Using tools to break open hard prey is not without its costs. The action requires energy, especially when it involves several powerful strikes. 



Videos show the fish sometimes lose their grip or need to readjust by spitting out and re-securing their prey. Despite this, the behavior is consistently successful.



Sometimes, other fish circle the scene. In 12 of 19 observations, nearby fish either attempted to steal food or got chased away. In one case, a juvenile wrasse stole a brittle star from an adult just after it had broken off a piece. Tool use brings not only food, but attention - and not always the good kind.



Still, the benefits seem to outweigh the risks. Access to shelled prey means more food options and better nutrition. 



For smaller wrasses, who might not have the jaw strength to crack shells without help, this strategy opens a new dietary path. It allows them to eat prey that would otherwise be unavailable to them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-puzzle-of-tool-use">Evolutionary puzzle of tool use</h2>



The study’s results open a new chapter in animal cognition. Fish now join a growing list of tool-using animals that includes primates, parrots, octopuses, wasps, and crabs. But why have only some species developed this behavior?



Tool use is likely influenced by ecological pressures - scarce food, competition, or environmental structure. In the case of wrasses, their diverse habitats, sharp learning skills, and wide range of prey may all play a role. Yet, the exact reasons remain unclear.



Professor Culum Brown, senior author of the study and head of Macquarie University’s Fish Lab, believes this behavior sheds light on the broader story of intelligence in the animal world. 



"They demonstrate flexible and dexterous tool use, expanding our understanding of tool use evolution in the animal kingdom," noted Professor Brown.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-next">What happens next</h2>



The researchers want to see more. Most documented tool use events are still opportunistic. Controlled studies - where prey is offered in experimental settings - could bring new insights.



The team hopes to receive more submissions from the public, helping them fill the gaps in geography and species data.



Those interested can contribute through Fish Tool Use, where divers and marine observers are encouraged to share footage or descriptions of wrasse behavior. With more data, scientists can explore whether anvil use is common across the family or limited to just a few clever species.



For now, wrasses have made one thing clear: we’ve underestimated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-vessels-most-industrial-fishing-activity-is-not-publicly-tracked/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish</a>. Not only are they smart, but they’re capable of innovation, planning, and creative problem-solving. 



Tool use may no longer be the preserve of a few gifted animals. It may be far more widespread - if we only care to look.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00338-025-02633-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coral Reefs</a>.



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Some clever fish use tools to crack open prey

For decades, tool use was seen as the hallmark of...

For over 165 years, scientists have puzzled over a strange fossil called&nbsp;Prototaxites. Even its appearance was unusual. It stood up to 8 meters tall, and resembled a towering tree with no leaves.



These curious lifeforms appeared during the late Silurian period, around 400 million years ago. Found among early ferns and horsetails, they lacked branches and looked nothing like modern trees.



In 1859, Canadian geologist John William Dawson thought these fossils were decaying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/palm-tree-fossils-found-in-the-arctic-rewrite-earths-climate-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree</a> trunks. He named them "first conifer," a name that stuck even as confusion deepened. 



The mystery has only grown as modern science has applied new tools, yet the answers remained elusive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-was-prototaxites-a-fungus">Was Prototaxites a fungus?</h2>



For decades, the idea that Prototaxites was a fungus gained support. 



In 2001, paleontologist Francis Hueber proposed it was a giant terrestrial fungus, based on anatomical features like the presence of tubular structures. 



Later, in 2017, researchers identified what they believed were fruiting bodies in the fossil, linking it to Ascomycota, a modern fungal group.



But there was a problem - these supposed reproductive parts had never been shown to connect with the vegetative body. That raised concerns. 



Could these fragments have belonged to an entirely different organism? Without direct evidence, the fungal identity of Prototaxites remained guesswork.



Despite ongoing debate, the fungus theory persisted. That is, until a team led by researchers from the <a href="https://www.ed.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Edinburgh</a> took a closer look. 



They re-examined Prototaxites taiti, a species preserved in Scotland’s Rhynie chert, which is one of the best <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-oasis-provided-refuge-for-plants-during-earths-worst-extinction-event/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil</a> deposits from the early Devonian period. Their findings call everything we thought we knew into question.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-largest-organism-of-the-devonian-landscape">Largest organism of the Devonian landscape</h2>



The team focused on an exceptionally well-preserved fossil labeled NSC.36. This fossil showed a cross-section of P. taiti and revealed medullary spots - dark, circular features - spread throughout its body.



The sample of rock that was used for analysis was roughly cylindrical, 5.6 cm (2.2 inches) wide and nearly 7 cm (2.8 inches) long, but incomplete. This suggests the original organism was much larger, likely a towering figure in its environment.



At the microscopic level, the researchers discovered three distinct types of tubes running lengthwise through the fossil. 



Type 1 tubes were thin, septate, and branched. Type 2 tubes were wider, with smooth double walls and no internal cross-walls. Type 3 tubes were thickest, and featured ring-like thickenings that do not match any known fungal type. These structures appeared interwoven, forming a dense, interconnected network inside the fossil.



Interestingly, these anatomical features resembled some aspects of fungi - but not enough to confirm a match. The third tube type, with its annular thickenings, doesn’t appear in any known fungal group, which raised immediate doubts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strange-medullary-spots-with-no-equal">Strange medullary spots with no equal</h2>



Using confocal laser scanning microscopy and 3D imaging, the team examined the medullary spots in detail. These regions contained all three tube types and added even finer ones, some just 1 micron in diameter. The branching patterns inside were complex and lacked the clear order seen in today's fungal systems.



In modern fungi, branching follows a hierarchy - generative hyphae give rise to other types in a predictable pattern. But in P. taiti, the branching had no clear direction or sequence. Tubes connected in all directions, forming a chaotic mesh.



“There are no structures analogous to medullary spots in extant fungi,” the researchers noted.



They also rejected the idea that these spots resembled fruiting bodies of ascomycetes. Even though some scientists once thought the spots hinted at spore production, no organic connection exists between these spots and any supposed reproductive structures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prototaxites-lacked-fungal-or-plant-traits">Prototaxites lacked fungal or plant traits</h2>



Next, the team analyzed the fossil’s molecular makeup using FTIR spectroscopy. 



They compared P. taiti with fungi, plants, animals, and bacteria from the same deposit. All these fossils had undergone the same fossilization process, which allowed for reliable side-by-side comparison.



The results were striking. The fossil lacked any trace of chitin or chitosan, which are essential compounds found in fungal cell walls. Even perylene - a chemical marker of ascomycete fungi - was absent in P. taiti, though present in the surrounding substratum.



Instead, P. taiti’s cells contained aromatic and phenolic compounds resembling fossilized lignin. Lignin is found in land plants, but this version differed chemically. It was something entirely distinct - resembling lignin, yet not plant-like.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-machine-learning-confirms-its-isolation">Machine learning confirms its isolation</h2>



To test the molecular data further, the team used machine learning models. These models were trained to distinguish organisms based on their molecular fingerprints. 



The results were clear. The models identified P. taiti as something different from fungi, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-modern-fossils-will-be-the-most-surprising-to-future-explorers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a>, bacteria, or plants - with over 90% accuracy.



"We conclude that the morphology and molecular fingerprint of P. taiti is clearly distinct from that of the fungi and other organisms preserved alongside it in the [Devonian deposit], and we suggest that it is best considered a member of a previously undescribed, entirely extinct group of eukaryotes," the authors note.



With no known taxonomic group sharing its combination of anatomy, chemistry, and lifestyle, Prototaxites stands apart. It was a eukaryote - meaning it had complex cells with nuclei - but that’s where the similarities end.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-a-plant-fungus-or-animal">Not a plant, fungus, or animal</h2>



The researchers tested every possible affiliation. Could it be an alga? No, P. taiti lacked the necessary photosynthetic structures and was chemically dissimilar. Could it be an early land plant? Again, the absence of vascular tissues and other plant traits ruled that out.



How about lichen? Not possible without a photobiont. Oomycetes? The molecular composition didn’t match. Even animals were ruled out. Metazoans do not have tube-like structures with cell walls, and P. taiti clearly did.



In the end, the team’s classification table showed the same result for every group: rejected.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prototaxites-evolution-s-lost-experiment">Prototaxites: Evolution’s lost experiment</h2>



Prototaxites might be the last known member of its kind. It formed massive vertical structures from underground networks. It likely absorbed nutrients from decaying matter, much like modern saprotrophs. Yet it was not a fungus, not a plant, and not an animal.



"Based on this investigation we are unable to assign Prototaxites to any extant lineage, reinforcing its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossils-capture-a-turning-point-in-the-evolution-of-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">uniqueness</a>," the authors concluded.



And that may be all we ever know. With no modern descendants and no living relatives, Prototaxites exists only as a fossil - part of a long-vanished branch of life. It reminds us that evolution is full of strange ideas, some of which thrived briefly before disappearing forever.



The ancient world was full of life unlike anything we see today. Prototaxites was one of its boldest experiments - and perhaps, one of its most fascinating failures.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.03.14.643340v1.full.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bioRxiv</a>.



Image Credit: CC BY-SA 4.0



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Giant, mysterious organisms discovered are impossible to categorize

For over 165 years, scientists have puzzled over a strange...

A new study shows that the forces creating mountain ranges can also drive species diversity, illuminating how Earth’s geological processes shape the evolution of life. 



The work marks a breakthrough in understanding why mountainous areas are hotbeds of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-species-diversity-shaped-by-climate-change-for-21000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species diversity</a> and how tectonic activities may have guided the evolutionary paths of certain groups of organisms over millions of years. The study was co-authored by researchers at <a href="https://www.iu.edu/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Indiana University</a> (IU).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-mountains-and-new-species">Rising mountains and new species</h2>



Long recognized as biological treasure troves, mountain regions often hold surprising numbers of plant and animal species. Yet, it has been difficult to tease out whether high biodiversity naturally accompanies the rugged terrain or if <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-and-why-do-mountains-form-new-theories-for-an-age-old-mystery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a>’ geological formation directly promotes new evolutionary processes.



According to this new study, the mere act of mountains rising can create conditions that give birth to new species. Shifting landscapes open up new habitats and geographically isolate populations, encouraging the emergence of new, distinct species - a process known as allopatric speciation.&nbsp;



Among smaller animals such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-modern-day-plague-rodents-fleas-and-their-impact-on-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rodents</a>, the team found a strong correlation between how quickly and how high mountains lift up and the degree of species diversification.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-closer-look-with-virtual-worlds">A closer look with virtual worlds</h2>



The research team, which includes Eyal Marder of the <a href="https://www.umass.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Massachusetts Amherst</a> (a former IU postdoctoral fellow) and Brian Yanites, an associate professor of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at IU, used advanced computer models to simulate how species might evolve in response to rising terrain over very long timescales.



They based their work on “Adascape,” a specialized model that allows for virtual representations of the Earth’s surface and how it changes. Then, they coupled it with programs that populate these landscapes with model species and track how they adapt and migrate as mountains slowly take shape.&nbsp;



The result was a synthetic view of how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-evolution-not-random-gene-families-pangenome-influence-called-revolutionary/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a> might proceed in response to upheavals that can last tens of millions of years.



One of the more compelling revelations from these simulations is that certain mountainous areas can act like “cradles” of new biodiversity. A species of rodent-like mammals in the model, for instance, split into multiple distinct species as soon as the mountains rose and created different environmental niches.&nbsp;



Over time, some of these new species even migrated into adjacent lowlands, matching patterns paleontologists often see in fossil deposits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-to-the-fossil-record">Connecting to the fossil record</h2>



Past geologic intervals have left behind a record of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-biggest-drivers-of-biodiversity-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> booms that, until now, were not well explained. The authors propose that at least some of these booms may correlate with upticks in tectonic activity.&nbsp;



For example, the researchers suggest that a known spike in fossil diversity about 15 million years ago in the western United States might be linked to local mountain building in the Basin and Range region, which shaped both animal evolution and the formation of sedimentary basins.



“This study gives us new insights into how Earth’s physical processes influence the diversity of life,” Marder said. “It also highlights how ongoing geological changes could continue to impact biodiversity in the future.”



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



Previous theories had proposed that mountains simply serve as a stage on which evolution plays out. In contrast, this research indicates that landscapes in flux can actively spark or redirect the evolutionary process.&nbsp;



“We often think of landscapes as passive backdrops for evolution, but this study shows that they are active participants in shaping biodiversity,” Yanites said.



Mountain-building pushes populations up or isolates them in valleys, subjecting organisms to different climates, food sources, and environmental pressures.&nbsp;



Over time, these constraints spawn new species. The link between tectonics and evolution grows even stronger when one considers that mountain ridges can capture moisture and alter local climates, further driving organisms to adapt or relocate.



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



Beyond helping explain the past, these findings may also help conservationists decide how and where to protect species. Mountains remain sensitive to climate change; as conditions shift, those living at high elevations may have nowhere left to migrate.&nbsp;



Understanding which areas are most critical for speciation could focus conservation efforts on safeguarding genetic diversity hotspots.



By revealing how rising mountains foster new species, this study may also guide reevaluation of existing protected zones. If certain ridge systems are particularly crucial for generating biodiversity, setting them aside or expanding current reserves might become a priority.&nbsp;



This knowledge could likewise apply to other dynamic environments - like tectonically active rifts or volcanic zones - which might also harbor outsized roles in biological innovation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mountain-uplift-and-species-evolution">Mountain uplift and species evolution</h2>



Moving forward, the authors aim to extend their computer modeling to different regions and sets of organisms, matching simulated results more closely with fossil records and genetic data. This interdisciplinary approach can refine projections about how topography influences evolution today and in the future.



According to the scientists, it’s not just about where species are now but about how a place changed over time, and how that might have sparked speciation or extinctions. This link between landscapes and life is something we’re just beginning to fully appreciate.



By establishing a clear, data-driven link between tectonic uplift and the evolution of new species, the study offers a novel perspective on Earth’s living tapestry - and on the power of the planet’s deep geological machinery to shape life across the ages.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.adp7290" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.&nbsp;



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How rising mountains give birth to new species

A new study shows that the forces creating mountain ranges...

A tiny fossil with an unusually well-preserved interior is rewriting what we know about ancient life. Discovered 25 years ago and affectionately named "Sue," the fossil is unlike most others from its time.



Instead of showing off a tough outer shell like other arthropods, this creature gives a rare peek inside - offering a glimpse at muscles, tendons, and guts from the Ordovician period, 444 million years ago.



The fossil, now officially named Keurbos susanae, was found in South Africa's Soom Shale, a rock layer north of Cape Town that was formed after a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-mass-extinction-event-was-caused-by-ocean-deoxygenation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">massive global extinction event</a>. 



During that time, a freezing climate wiped out about 85% of Earth’s species. Somehow, a few marine creatures survived in this basin, and Sue was among them.



This unusual fossil was recently studied by scientists from the <a href="https://le.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leicester</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-keurbos-susanae-fossil-is-all-guts">Keurbos susanae fossil is all guts</h2>



“Sue is an inside-out, legless, headless wonder,” said Professor Sarah Gabbott from the University of Leicester’s School of Geography, Geology and the Environment. 



“Remarkably, her insides are a mineralized time-capsule: muscles, sinews, tendons and even guts all preserved in unimaginable detail. And yet her durable carapace, legs and head are missing - no douubt lost to decay over 440 million years ago."



Sue stands out because her internal features are fossilized, rather than her external shell. This is rare. 



Most fossilized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-fossil-sheds-light-on-arthropod-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arthropods</a> - members of a group that includes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-are-closer-to-unlocking-the-secrets-of-spider-silk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiders</a>, lobsters, and millipedes - preserve hard body parts like exoskeletons. In Sue’s case, the soft tissues were sealed away by unique conditions on the ancient sea floor.



The lack of oxygen, combined with toxic hydrogen sulfide in the sediments, likely helped create an environment where her soft tissues were not decomposed, but could remain intact.



Scientists believe a strange chemical process was involved in preserving her this way.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-still-a-mystery-in-the-family-tree">Still a mystery in the family tree</h2>



While researchers are confident Sue was a primitive marine arthropod, exactly where she fits into the evolutionary story is still unclear.



“We are now sure she was a primitive marine arthropod but her precise evolutionary relationships remain frustratingly elusive,” Professor Gabbott explained.



Her unique preservation makes it hard to match her with other known species from the time. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="University of Leicester" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Sue-fossil_Keurbos-susanae_Credit-ULeicester_1s.webp" alt="The fossil Keurbos susanae - or Sue - in the rock. Discovered by Professor Sarah Gabbott. Credit: University of Leicester" class="wp-image-1963799"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The fossil Keurbos susanae - or Sue - in the rock. Discovered by Professor Sarah Gabbott. Click to enlarge. Credit: University of Leicester</figcaption></figure>



Most comparable fossils only show hard outer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossilized-shells-can-help-predict-the-impacts-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shells</a> or limbs, offering little internal detail for comparison. With no modern equivalent and no other specimens like her, Sue remains a puzzle. 



No other fossils with the same level of detail have turned up in over two decades of searching. And the original quarry where Sue was found - a small roadside site - has all but vanished.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personal-tribute-25-years-in-the-making">Personal tribute, 25 years in the making</h2>



“This has been an ultramarathon of a research effort,” said Professor Gabbott. “In a large part, because this fossil is just so beautifully preserved, there's so much anatomy there that needs interpreting."



She spent years studying every layer of the fossil, hoping to one day find another with more complete features like a head or legs. But as time passed, she realized this might be a once-in-a-lifetime find.



“I'd always hoped to find new specimens but it seems after 25 years of searching this fossil is vanishingly rare - so I can hang on no longer,” she said.



And so she named the fossil Keurbos susanae, or Sue, after her mother.



“Especially as, recently, my mom said to me, 'Sarah if you are going to name this fossil after me, you'd better get on and do it before I am in the ground and fossilized myself,'" she shared.



"I tell my mom in jest that I named the fossil Sue after her because she is a well-preserved specimen. But, in truth, I named her Sue because my mom always said I should follow a career that makes me happy - whatever that may be. For me, that is digging rocks, finding fossils and then trying to figure out how they lived, what they tell us about ancient life and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-evolution-not-random-gene-families-pangenome-influence-called-revolutionary/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution on Earth</a>."



Sue may not have her head or legs, but her legacy - both scientific and personal - is unforgettable.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/spp2.70004" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Palaeontology</a>.



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444-million-year-old fossil named 'Sue' has a story to tell

A tiny fossil with an unusually well-preserved interior is rewriting...

What does it take to truly understand evolution? For centuries, scientists studied bones in museums and fossils in stone. But in recent decades, a quiet shift has been underway. 



A group of dedicated researchers has started tracking life as it changes - not over millennia, but through real-time observation. At the heart of this movement is a growing collection of long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolution-itself-found-to-be-evolving-as-life-constantly-learns-to-adapt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary studies</a>, some spanning generations, others stretching across continents.



Now, a new review article published in the journal Nature pulls these threads together for the first time. Led by scientists from Georgia Tech, the study explores how these extensive research programs are capturing evolution’s most elusive processes. The findings reveal more than biological data - they offer a window into life’s unfolding story.



"Evolution isn't just about change over millions of years in fossils - it's happening all around us, right now," said lead author James Stroud, an assistant professor in the <a href="https://biosciences.gatech.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Biological Sciences</a> at Georgia Tech.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-long-term-research-matters">Why long-term research matters</h2>



Understanding evolution isn't just about snapshots. It’s about watching a process play out, one generation after another. Many evolutionary events unfold too slowly or unpredictably to catch in a brief study. This is where long-term research comes in. 



By investing time - sometimes decades - scientists can observe what shorter experiments might miss entirely.



"However, to understand evolution, we need to watch it <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-animal-will-replace-humans-as-earths-dominant-species-this-scientist-has-an-idea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unfold in real time</a>, often over many generations. Long-term studies allow us to do that by giving us a front-row seat to evolution in action," explained Stroud.



This is the first major review to examine the role of long-term evolutionary studies in such depth. It highlights not only their scientific value but also their potential to answer questions that once seemed unapproachable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-islands-to-petri-dishes">From islands to petri dishes</h2>



The review explores case studies from both the wild and the lab. One example comes from the Galápagos Islands, where researchers have spent forty years studying Darwin’s finches. 



These iconic songbirds provided direct evidence of speciation - when a new species formed through hybridization.



In the lab, scientists observed 75,000 generations of bacteria evolve. Over time, these microbes developed new metabolic abilities that no one had predicted at the start. 



These events might seem extraordinary, but they were not accidents. They were only visible because of the patient design and extended timeline of each study.



"These remarkable evolutionary events were only caught because of the long-term nature of the research programs," said Stroud. "Even if short-term studies captured similar events, their evolutionary significance would be hard to assess without the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolutions-many-solutions-nature-finds-multiple-paths-to-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">historical context</a> that long-term research provides."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-results-in-evolution">Unexpected results in evolution</h2>



One thing long-term studies teach us: nature rarely <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-ice-age-cycles-are-predictable-but-humans-may-change-that/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">follows our expectations</a>. Surprising discoveries often emerge years after a study begins. 



This unpredictability makes such work especially valuable. Long-term experiments serve as both a test of hypotheses and a source of entirely new questions.



"The most fascinating results from long-term evolution studies are often completely unexpected - they're serendipitous discoveries that couldn't have been predicted at the start," said co-author Professor Will Ratcliff, co-director of the Interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Quantitative Biosciences at <a href="https://www.gatech.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Georgia Tech</a>.



Ratcliff also points to a practical truth that often goes unnoticed. "While we can accelerate many aspects of scientific research today, evolution still moves at its own pace. There's no technological shortcut for watching species adapt across generations."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-evolution-reacts-to-climate-shifts-nbsp">How evolution reacts to climate shifts&nbsp;</h2>



The Nature paper also reflects on how long-term studies have captured changes driven by the planet itself. One area of growing concern is phenology - the timing of biological events like flowering or migration.



As the climate warms, many species shift their schedules. But how much of that change is temporary flexibility, and how much is actual evolution?



Long-term studies provide the answer. They allow researchers to see whether traits are inherited, and whether those changes persist. Without enough time, it’s nearly impossible to tell the difference between momentary adaptation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-chapter-in-human-evolution-revealed-through-genetics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lasting change</a>.



A recent case showed how both phenotypic plasticity and adaptive evolution influence the timing of flowering in plants. Such insights matter, especially in a world where ecosystems face rapid and unpredictable shifts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decade-long-evolution-experiments">Decade-long evolution experiments</h2>



Stroud and Ratcliff do more than study other people’s work. They run their own long-term experiments as part of Georgia Tech’s evolutionary biology community. These projects not only inform the review - they reflect its central message.



In South Florida, Stroud oversees a project known informally as “Lizard Island.” Over the last ten years, he and his team have monitored a tiny island’s lizard population - about 1,000 individuals from five species.



By watching how these animals compete, coexist, and sometimes change, his group uncovers how species evolve and hold their identity under pressure.



Meanwhile, Ratcliff’s work focuses on a deeper evolutionary shift: the origin of complex life. His Multicellularity Long Term Evolution Experiment (MuLTEE) observes snowflake yeast as they evolve into multicellular forms. 



Running for more than 9,000 generations already, this project may continue for 25 more years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revealing-life-s-transitions">Revealing life’s transitions</h2>



One of Ratcliff’s most important findings is that becoming multicellular might not be as hard as once believed. 



That single-celled organisms can evolve cooperation, division of labor, and complexity - all within an observable timeframe - challenges long-standing views.



These results make long-term projects not just informative but essential. Some evolutionary transitions were thought to be rare or nearly impossible. But with time as an ally, researchers are discovering that nature may have more flexibility than expected.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-in-a-time-of-speed">Science in a time of speed</h2>



Despite their value, long-term studies face growing challenges. Today’s academic culture often rewards fast results. Funding cycles rarely last more than a few years. Publishing systems favor novel discoveries over incremental work. This creates an environment where slow research becomes harder to sustain.



Yet, the most powerful findings about life’s processes often take time. Stroud and Ratcliff argue that the scientific community must protect and support these efforts. 



In the review, they point out how many breakthroughs happened only because researchers kept going - even when immediate outcomes weren’t clear.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-present-predicting-future">Understanding present, predicting future</h2>



Stroud believes that this work has never been more urgent. "The world is rapidly changing, which poses unprecedented challenges to Earth's biodiversity," he noted. "It has never been more important to understand how organisms adapt to changing environments over time."



"Long-term studies provide our best window into achieving this. We can document, in real time, both short-term and long-term evolutionary responses of species to changes in their environment, like climate change and habitat modification."



This review doesn’t just celebrate what has already been learned. It points toward the future. Understanding evolution isn’t only about looking back. It’s about predicting what comes next - and that takes time, patience, and a commitment to seeing the whole picture.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08597-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Evolution isn’t just ancient history, it’s happening right now

What does it take to truly understand evolution? For centuries,...

Evolution drives all biological change. It shapes every lifeform we know, including birds. Charles Darwin laid its foundation with natural selection, explaining how organisms adapt and survive through generations.



Recent advances in genetics and bioinformatics have pushed our understanding far beyond Darwin’s notebooks. One question still haunts the scientific world: What really drives <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolution-itself-found-to-be-evolving-as-life-constantly-learns-to-adapt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">novelty</a> in evolution? 



A new study by researchers at the <a href="https://www.ku.dk/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Copenhagen</a> offers a fresh approach and some surprising answers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-makes-evolution-tick">What makes evolution tick</h2>



DNA changes lie at the center of evolution. These changes fuel the dazzling variety of life around us. Sometimes, they produce traits that surprise us. Other times, they lead to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-animal-will-replace-humans-as-earths-dominant-species-this-scientist-has-an-idea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mutations</a> behind deadly viruses.



That’s why understanding DNA’s shifting patterns isn’t just scientific curiosity. It matters for protecting ecosystems. It matters for predicting health threats.



"Basically, we showcase a method to extract information from genomes and reveal the forces driving biological novelty with unprecedented detail," said David Duchene, a professor in the Department of Public Health at the University of Copenhagen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds-as-evolution-s-case-study">Birds as evolution’s case study</h2>



The team used birds as their main study group. Why birds? They’re the most diverse group of vertebrates - 10,000 species strong.



"We used birds as our study subject. With 10,000 known species, they are the most diverse class of vertebrates and uniquely suited for exploring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-chapter-in-human-evolution-revealed-through-genetics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary phenomena</a>. With our method, we were able to identify key factors that influence how these bird lineages and their thousands of genes evolve," explained Duchene.



Their method identified four key evolutionary factors: clutch size, gene biochemistry, chromosome size, and leg length. Duchene says these results break the idea that one trait, like flying or singing, steers a group’s evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-evolution-depends-on-many-traits">Bird evolution depends on many traits</h2>



"Our study tells us that you will find much nuance as to the drivers of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolutions-many-solutions-nature-finds-multiple-paths-to-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">novelty</a> once you look at multiple lineages and genes in detail. The biochemistry, chromosomes, and various aspects of lifestyle all play distinct roles in bringing about novelty," said Duchene.



It’s not one factor but many. The research shows how each piece, from gene makeup to physical traits, helps shape the tree of life. This view gives experts a better toolkit for tracking changes across different organisms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-to-the-next-pandemic">Clues to the next pandemic</h2>



The findings stretch beyond birds, offering deeper insight into evolution across many forms of life.



The method could help scientists track how diseases evolve. It could help understand how plants respond to climate change. And it could point to what we risk losing in our current biodiversity crisis.



According to Duchene, the findings can be applied to a variety of contexts, such as understanding how diseases adapt to human demographics or climate conditions.



"The same principles that help us decode the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-model-esm3-creates-new-protein-that-simulates-500-million-years-of-biological-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diversity</a> of birds could also be used to investigate the genetic changes driving everything from pandemics to species adaptation in shifting ecosystems," said Duchene.



"This method could tell us: What is special about what we are losing in the current biodiversity crisis? What exactly made those animals so novel and unique, and what have they taught us about evolution such that we might want to preserve them?" 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-evolution-and-the-study-of-life">Bird evolution and the study of life</h2>



Every extinct species takes with it a chapter of evolution’s story. Understanding why those species were unique helps us grasp the full scale of what’s being lost. 



It also shows us what we must protect - not just for the sake of nature, but for future discoveries about life itself.



With this new approach, scientists can now map the drivers of evolution more clearly than ever before. The tools used to decode bird diversity may soon help us understand the rise of new diseases or the disappearance of key species. 



The study invites a shift in thinking - from seeing evolution as a slow and distant process to recognizing it as something dynamic and ongoing.



Nature still holds many secrets. But thanks to this work from the University of Copenhagen, we are one step closer to understanding how life continues to surprise, survive, and evolve.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08777-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Decoding evolution: How birds can help us prevent pandemics

Evolution drives all biological change. It shapes every lifeform we...

Amphibians are in crisis. Climate change, pollution, and habitat loss are stripping their ecosystems. But something even more silent is killing them - disease. From frogs to tadpoles, the losses and disrupted growth are staggering.



Since the 1970s, about 200 amphibian species have vanished. Today, 34% of the 7,296 known species face extinction, according to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (<a href="https://iucn.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IUCN</a>).



One fast-moving culprit is ranavirus. This genus of viruses spreads quickly among fish, reptiles, and amphibians. The virus can devastate species that lack any built-in defense. But a recent study in Frontiers in Amphibian and Reptile Science offers a glimpse of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-frog-day-2025-protecting-natures-tiny-guardians/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amphibian resilience</a>.



“Here we show that in response to ranavirus, wood frog tadpoles change their growth, development, and resource allocation. This may help tadpoles tolerate the energetic demands of infection or escape risky environments to avoid infection entirely,” said Logan Billet, a PhD student at <a href="https://www.yale.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yale University</a> and the study’s first author.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-deadly-virus-is-wiping-out-frogs">A deadly virus is wiping out frogs</h2>



Ranavirus has caused 40 to 60% of amphibian die-offs in the US. 



Once infected, larvae become lethargic, stop eating, swim abnormally, and bleed internally. Outbreaks often end in total pond die-offs. And with warming temperatures, these outbreaks may increase.



The researchers decided to focus on one species: the wood frog (Rana sylvatica). This species breeds explosively in temporary snowmelt ponds. The team observed these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frogs-lead-the-way-in-developing-new-antibiotics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frogs</a> from 2021 to 2023 in Connecticut forests. They tracked their survival, growth, and the virus’s impact.



They monitored 47 ponds: 35 remained virus-free, 7 had infections but low death rates, and 5 experienced full-blown die-offs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tadpoles-grow-faster-around-ranavirus">Tadpoles grow faster around ranavirus</h2>



From mid-April to July, scientists collected tadpoles regularly. They euthanized up to 20 from each pond for lab analysis. They tested 1,583 livers for ranavirus and measured the length and developmental stage of 4,299 tadpoles.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/walking-on-water-cricket-frogs-redefine-aquatic-locomotion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amphibians</a> grow flexibly. Size and developmental stage do not always go hand in hand. A tadpole might be small yet advanced in development or vice versa. This plasticity makes their responses interesting to study.



The results showed that tadpoles in ponds later hit by die-offs grew faster during their first month. They also developed quicker - about 0.38 stages ahead of others. But once mortality began, growth collapsed. In the end, they were smaller and less developed than their healthy counterparts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quick-growth-may-help-tadpoles-survive">Quick growth may help tadpoles survive</h2>



Interestingly, tadpoles in infected ponds that avoided full die-offs showed similar trends. They grew faster and reached stages 1.7 Gosner points ahead of those in clean ponds.



The data points to a clear pattern. Tadpoles exposed to ranavirus grow and develop faster - at least in the early days. This may be their way of dodging death by jumping ahead in their life cycle.



Study senior author Dr. David Skelly is a professor at the <a href="https://peabody.yale.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Peabody Museum</a> and Billet’s doctoral supervisor.



“Accelerating growth and resource allocation early on may allow tadpoles to improve their physical condition, and thus the strength of their immunity, in anticipation of infection. They might also metamorphose and move onto land earlier, potentially reducing their exposure to ranavirus,” said Dr. Skelly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-unique-survival-strategy">A unique survival strategy</h2>



These early responses may help explain why some outbreaks kill only a portion of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/missing-frog-species-alsodes-vittatus-resurfaces-after-130-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">population</a>.



“These responses are likely to give tadpoles a survival advantage. We hypothesize they are the reason why mortality wasn’t always 100%, but only partial in some outbreaks in our study," said Billet.



“What we don’t yet know is how tadpoles detect ranavirus in their environment, for example through chemical or visual cues, and how effective these responses improve survival or tolerance of infection. Controlled experiments will be important to address these questions."



The study opens a new window into amphibian survival in the face of disease. These creatures, from adult frogs to fragile tadpoles, are adjusting their growth in real time to a rapidly changing world. But their limits remain unknown.



As human-driven changes reshape the planet, the quiet struggles in our forest ponds may soon speak volumes about the future of biodiversity. The story of the wood <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-amphibians-survived-earths-deadliest-mass-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frog</a> and its fight against ranavirus is just one chapter. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/amphibian-and-reptile-science/articles/10.3389/famrs.2025.1529060/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Amphibian and Reptile Science</a>.



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Tadpoles speed up their growth to outsmart a deadly virus

Amphibians are in crisis. Climate change, pollution, and habitat loss...

The forests and fields of North America hold secrets that even motion-sensitive cameras can't always reveal. Among those secrets are weasels - small, swift, and almost invisible to modern wildlife monitoring.



These elusive predators have slipped through digital traps for decades, making scientists wonder whether their silence signals absence or simply stealth.



It’s not just curiosity that drives this concern. Weasels, as small mustelids, play vital roles in ecosystems. They control rodent populations and serve as prey for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-day-2025-a-global-call-to-protect-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">larger animals</a>. 



Understanding where they thrive or vanish can reveal larger patterns of ecological change. But until recently, researchers lacked a clear method to study their population numbers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenge-of-monitoring-weasels">Challenge of monitoring weasels</h2>



Camera traps work well for large mammals. Deer, bears, and even coyotes often stroll past, triggering a flurry of images. But weasels are a different story. 



Their bodies are small and they move fast. They often live in habitats with thick cover, making them almost invisible, even when present.



Roland Kays is a research professor at <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Carolina State University</a> and scientist at the N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences.



“We’re a little worried about the weasels,” said Kays. "We don’t see them very often, but it’s difficult to tell if they’re actually gone or if they’re just so sneaky that we can’t find them."



"We decided that we needed to better understand the best method to detect them. There wasn’t a great consensus on that.”



The lack of consensus led Kays and a group of researchers to try something new. Instead of relying on luck, they decided to identify the best <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-conservation-day-2024-saving-species-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bait</a> - and the best method - for attracting weasels to camera traps.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-designing-a-massive-survey">Designing a massive survey</h2>



Between January 2022 and April 2023, the scientists launched one of the largest camera-trap bait studies ever done for mustelids.



The team placed 486 cameras across 122 clusters in 14 U.S. states, focusing on areas where weasels were previously recorded or where habitat conditions seemed ideal.



Each site hosted a set of four trail cameras, positioned close enough to give weasels a full choice of lures while minimizing overlap between camera zones.



The researchers tested various bait types. These included red meat, raw chicken, cat food, and scent-based lures like anise oil, salmon oil, and a commercial product called Weasel Super All Call. 



In 2023, they switched fully to meat baits after finding weak results from scent lures alone the year before.



The bait wasn't just thrown on the ground. It was secured in cages to prevent theft by other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-era-in-wildlife-conservation-how-ai-will-help-protect-elephants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a>. One new method, a cage-within-a-cage system, eventually proved highly successful in stopping bait robbers like raccoons and coyotes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-weasels-preferred">What the weasels preferred</h2>



“There is a huge variety of scent lures available, and trappers often make their own from all kinds of ingredients,” noted Kays. “As it turns out, however, just having a chunk of meat works the best.”



Red meat emerged as the top performer. It tripled the chance of weasel detection compared to scent lures alone. 



Short-tailed weasels especially loved red meat, showing up twice as often at those <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-secretly-reshape-landscapes-in-powerful-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bait</a> stations than at sites with chicken or cat food. When salmon oil was added to the red meat, results improved even further - especially for short-tailed weasels.



In the southern U.S., long-tailed weasels appeared more frequently at chicken-baited sites. They also arrived faster. On average, it took just 14.5 days for a chicken-baited camera to record a long-tailed weasel, compared to nearly 40 days with red meat.



Cat food, by contrast, was the least effective. It took over 27 days to attract weasels - if it attracted them at all.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-least-weasel-may-be-in-trouble">The least weasel may be in trouble</h2>



Of all the weasel species in North America, the least weasel remains the most mysterious. The study detected only four individuals in total - one in 2022 and three in 2023.



Their scarcity raises conservation alarms. Researchers have suggested that the least weasel may be the most endangered of the group, with one study estimating a 54% decline in this species' habitat over the past century.



Even in targeted areas, where previous records or ideal habitats existed, least weasels barely registered. This highlights the need for specialized monitoring tools, such as enclosed camera traps like the Mostela, which have had some success in limited trials.



“Now that we have an understanding of the best ways to lure the weasels, we can be more confident in the findings of our surveys,” Kays said. 



“When we have sites where we don’t detect them, we can be much more assured that they aren’t just in hiding, they’re really just not there at all.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-activity-patterns-and-behavioral-clues">Activity patterns and behavioral clues</h2>



The study also revealed new insights into how different weasel species behave. Short-tailed weasels were active both day and night - an unusual pattern that differs from past observations in Europe and Canada.



In contrast, long-tailed weasels were mostly nocturnal or crepuscular, showing peak activity at dawn and dusk.



These activity patterns have practical implications. If researchers know when weasels are likely to appear, they can time camera placements and checks more effectively. 



It also offers clues about predator-prey dynamics, as prey animals may adjust their own schedules to avoid these hunters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-bait-matters">Why bait matters</h2>



Getting the bait right was only half the battle. The researchers quickly learned that non-target species - especially raccoons and opossums - loved the bait too. Red meat and chicken were often stolen, reducing the time that bait remained in front of cameras.



In southern sites, bait theft was particularly high. This lowered detection rates. When cameras lost their bait early, they became less attractive to passing weasels. 



In contrast, northern sites experienced less bait theft. That could explain why red meat worked so well in the north, where short-tailed weasels live.



The addition of salmon oil helped keep sites attractive even after the meat disappeared. Its strong scent lingered, possibly drawing in curious weasels until the bait was replenished. Cameras baited with salmon oil recorded detections in just 6.5 days, compared to 22 days without the oil.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-a-better-monitoring-system">Building a better monitoring system</h2>



This study provides a crucial step toward standardizing how we monitor small carnivores like weasels. With clear bait preferences identified, wildlife agencies can now deploy cost-effective, reliable surveys over large areas.



The best approach? Use red meat or chicken, depending on the region. Add salmon oil for stronger scent cues. Protect the bait using a cage-within-a-cage system. Place cameras in areas with prior weasel activity or suitable habitat. And check the traps monthly during winter, when meat lasts longer and bear activity is low.



Large-scale, standardized surveys like this can finally reveal what decades of anecdotal data couldn’t - the locations where weasels still thrive, and those where they don’t, and how their numbers change over time.



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



Despite their size, weasels carry ecological weight. They matter. This study, which was published in <a href="https://wildlife.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/wsb.1580" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wildlife Society Bulletin</a>, helps bring these predators out of the shadows.



The research team included experts from over 20 universities and wildlife agencies, and was led by corresponding author Scott M. Bergeson of <a href="https://www.pfw.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Purdue University Fort Wayne</a>. Funding came from the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act of 1937, a cornerstone of American conservation.



Thanks to their work, weasels are no longer invisible. We can now track their paths, confirm their presence, and protect what remains - one camera trap at a time.



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Weasels are vanishing - or are they just too sneaky to spot?

The forests and fields of North America hold secrets that...

Some fish are not just fast - they’re smart. A team of scientists, including researchers from the University of Edinburgh, has revealed a never-seen-before hunting trick in the Mediterranean Sea. Small fish called blue runners hide behind sandbar sharks to sneak up on prey.



This behavior stands out. Fish often swim near <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-sharks-make-sounds-despite-not-having-vocal-cords/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> to avoid threats or shed parasites. But hiding behind a shark to launch a hunt? That’s a first.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fish-use-sharks-as-cover">Fish use sharks as cover </h2>



Until now, scientists had noticed that fish sometimes trail sharks. This was usually for protection or parasite removal. Some even used <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/top-predator-missing-what-happens-when-great-white-sharks-disappear/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> as moving shields to escape larger predators. But the new footage captured around Lampione Island in Italy shows something more calculated.



Over several years, divers and remotely operated vehicles recorded 34 separate cases of blue runners sneaking behind sharks. Each time, a lone blue runner shadowed a sandbar shark for about 30 seconds. Then, without warning, it broke away to dart at smaller fish, especially damselfish.



What changed wasn’t just the fish’s timing - but their approach. Blue runners typically hunt in groups. But these solo hunts seemed far more effective when combined with the shark’s distraction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shark-cover-boosts-hunting-success">Shark cover boosts hunting success </h2>



The team analyzed hours of underwater footage to understand the success of this hunting trick. The findings were clear. When blue runners used sharks as cover, prey detected them only 10 percent of the time.



In contrast, when they hunted as a group - without shark cover - their targets noticed them over 95 percent of the time.



The difference changed everything. Instead of fleeing or forming tight defensive schools, the damselfish and other prey stayed relaxed. The shark’s presence seemed to lull them into a false sense of security, never realizing another <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-third-of-shark-species-face-extinction-despite-fishing-bans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predator</a> swam in its shadow.



The blue runners also appeared to gain other benefits. Scientists believe that swimming behind the shark may help conserve energy, thanks to reduced water resistance. It may also offer safety, as predators are less likely to attack a fish moving close to a large shark.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-rare-gathering-of-sharks">A rare gathering of sharks</h2>



This remarkable behavior occurs in one of the few places in the Mediterranean where sandbar sharks still gather in groups. 



Every summer, they return to the waters around Lampione Island, creating what scientists call an “aggregation.” This kind of natural event is rare in these seas, especially as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemical-clues-from-old-shark-jaws-reveal-diets-and-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shark populations</a> decline due to overfishing and habitat stress.



Because of the consistency and uniqueness of this site, the researchers had the chance to observe complex behaviors that would likely go unnoticed elsewhere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shark-loss-could-affect-hunting-behavior">Shark loss could affect hunting behavior</h2>



“The study highlights how interactions between species can drive alternative hunting tactics in marine ecosystems. Understanding these dynamics enriches our knowledge of marine biodiversity and underscores the importance of conserving high-level predators, like sharks,” said Professor Fabio Badalamenti, of the University of Edinburgh and CNR-IAS Palermo.



“This unique interaction emphasizes the ecological importance of the few remaining shark aggregations, which can influence the structure and function of ecosystems,“ noted Dr. Carlo Cattano, of the Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn.



“Lampione Island is one of only two known aggregation areas for the sandbar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-some-great-hammerhead-sharks-rarely-leave-home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shark</a> in the Mediterranean Sea. The ongoing decline in large shark populations due to overfishing could jeopardize associations like these, which could have knock-on effects on other species.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-dynamics-of-fragile-ecosystems">Hidden dynamics of fragile ecosystems </h2>



This behavior isn't just a cool trick of nature - it carries serious implications. The blue runners’ strategy depends on the shark’s presence. If sharks vanish, so might these unique hunting methods. As top predators decline, ripple effects may shift entire ecosystems in ways we don’t yet understand.



Understanding these hidden dynamics reveals how fragile marine systems can be. Every player in the food web, no matter how strong or small, shapes the behavior of others. 



Preserving biodiversity, then, isn't just about saving one species - it’s about keeping the game of life in motion, with all its surprises intact.



The study's success resulted from collaboration across institutions. Scientists from the University of Edinburgh, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, the National Biodiversity Future Center, CNR-IAS, and the University of Palermo all played roles.​



Support from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluemarinefoundation.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Blue Marine Foundation</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.org/society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Geographic Society</a>&nbsp;enabled long-term observation, which proved key in documenting this behavior over multiple seasons.



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ecy.70028" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology</a>.



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Sneaky fish use sharks like moving shields while hunting

Some fish are not just fast - they’re smart. A...

For centuries, sharks have stirred fear and fascination. They glide through water with quiet power. Unlike whales or dolphins, they never seem to speak. Scientists assumed that sharks lived in a world of silence - masters of stealth with no sound.



That idea was rooted in biology. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-third-of-shark-species-face-extinction-despite-fishing-bans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sharks</a> lack swim bladders, organs that help many fish produce sound. 



They also don’t have vocal cords or specialized structures like drumming muscles. So the conclusion felt safe: sharks don’t make noise.



But nature is full of surprises. A recent discovery made at the University of Auckland's <a href="https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/science/about-the-faculty/university-reserves/leigh-marine-laboratory.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leigh Marine Laboratory</a> has rewritten what we know about these ancient predators. 



Sharks might not be voiceless after all.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-first-recorded-shark-sounds">The first recorded shark sounds</h2>



In a study published in Royal Society Open Science, <a href="https://rs.figshare.com/articles/media/Data_1_from_Evidence_of_active_sound_production_by_a_shark/28596448?backTo=%2Fcollections%2FSupplementary_material_from_Evidence_of_active_sound_production_by_a_shark_%2F7720015&amp;file=52990585" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scientists shared the first known recordings</a> of active sound production by sharks. 



The species involved, the rig shark (Mustelus lenticulatus), is a small, bottom-dwelling shark native to New Zealand.



During routine hearing experiments, ten juvenile rig <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemical-clues-from-old-shark-jaws-reveal-diets-and-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> produced distinct clicking sounds when handled underwater. These weren’t random splashes or incidental noise. They were consistent, sharp clicks — deliberate and audible.



"Sharks have sensory systems that are more refined than their hearing, like their electroreceptors, their smell, and the way they propel themselves through the water… But I think the original notion that we had that sound isn't important at all is also likely not true," said Carolin Nieder, lead author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clicks-as-stress-or-warning-signals">Clicks as stress or warning signals</h2>



The clicks didn’t happen while the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-some-great-hammerhead-sharks-rarely-leave-home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> swam freely. They didn’t appear during feeding or rest. They only occurred when the sharks were briefly handled. Most clicks happened in the first ten seconds of handling and dropped off after that.



This suggests the sounds may be a reaction to stress. The sharks could be trying to defend themselves or confuse potential predators. Some clicks coincided with physical movements, like swaying or sudden bends. Others came with no visible movement.



The researchers counted an average of nine clicks per shark in a 20-second window. About three-quarters of those clicks were short, single-pulse bursts. The remaining were double-pulse clicks, produced in rapid succession.



“Maybe they weren't afraid for their lives anymore,” Nieder said, noting the decline in clicks over time. This behavior may resemble a natural escape tactic in the wild, used as a quick distraction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teeth-not-vocal-cords">Teeth, not vocal cords</h2>



So how do <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sharks-may-benefit-from-rising-temperatures-but-not-from-rising-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> make these sounds without sound-producing organs? The team examined this closely. Using microCT scans and detailed dissections, the researchers studied the cranial structure of the rig shark. The teeth emerged as the most likely mechanism.



Rig sharks have blunt, interlocking teeth arranged like flat plates. These teeth snap together during rapid jaw movements. This snapping action likely creates the broadband clicks observed in the study.



The sounds recorded had an average duration of 48 milliseconds, with frequencies between 2.4 and 18.5 kHz. 



Most clicks peaked around 9.6 kHz, far above the rig’s hearing threshold, which tops at around 800 Hz. Yet, the first burst of each click contained low frequencies that might be audible to the sharks themselves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-are-these-shark-sounds-meaningful">Are these shark sounds meaningful?</h2>



The purpose of the clicks remains uncertain. Are they a biological signal - a warning, alarm, or defensive cry? Or are they simply a byproduct of muscle contractions and jaw tension under stress?



The study notes that rigs did not produce sounds during other behaviors, like swimming or feeding. This supports the idea that the clicking is linked to disturbance, not daily communication.



Still, comparisons with other fish species are revealing. Teleost fish, like cod and piranhas, often emit clicks when threatened or approached by predators. These “predator-related” sounds serve no obvious communicative role but may momentarily confuse or startle attackers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-similar-sounds-in-other-species">Similar sounds in other species</h2>



This discovery also echoes recent findings in rays. Since 2022, several studies have reported click-like sounds in stingrays and skates when divers approached. 



Species like the mangrove whipray and the blonde ray produce sharp broadband clicks, seemingly in reaction to disturbance.



These clicks share many traits with the rig’s clicks: short duration, high frequency, and apparent links to stress. While the anatomical mechanisms may differ, the pattern is striking.



In rays, the movement of spiracles and fins has been observed during sound production. In rigs, however, no clear body movement could be linked directly to the clicks. This raises the need for better underwater observation - perhaps through close-up video - to pinpoint exactly how the sound is made.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-all-sharks-click">Not all sharks click</h2>



Interestingly, not all <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mediterranean-sharks-face-growing-threats-despite-conservation-efforts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> show this behavior. The study tested three dusky smoothhounds (Mustelus canis), close relatives of the rig. These sharks, when handled under the same conditions, produced no clicks.



This may point to differences in species behavior, evolutionary paths, or simply varying sensitivity to human presence. The dusky smoothhounds had been in captivity longer, which might explain their lack of response.



The researchers noted that Mustelus as a genus includes many species with similar tooth shapes. It’s possible that other species may also produce clicks under the right circumstances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-rig-sharks-hear-their-own-sounds">Can rig sharks hear their own sounds?</h2>



This question remains unresolved. Rigs are most sensitive to very low frequencies, far below the peak of their clicks. Yet, each click begins with a powerful burst that includes frequencies under 1 kHz. These lower frequencies may fall within the shark’s hearing range.



Whether the clicks carry a message for other sharks is unclear. But it’s possible the clicks aren’t meant for sharks at all. The energy-rich sounds could affect predators with better hearing, like toothed whales or large marine mammals. 



Some fish also produce similar sounds that deter or confuse predators, even if they aren’t always effective.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-voices-from-the-deep">New voices from the deep</h2>



For years, researchers assumed that sharks lacked the ability - or need - to make sound. This study shifts that narrative. It reveals not only a sound, but a potential signal - a cry, a warning, or perhaps an instinctive snap.



The rig shark now holds the title of the first confirmed sound-producing shark. And its clicks may not be alone for long. As scientists look closer, more species may reveal their hidden voices.



In the quietest corners of the ocean, even sharks might have something to say.



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<a href="https://rs.figshare.com/articles/media/Data_1_from_Evidence_of_active_sound_production_by_a_shark/28596448?backTo=%2Fcollections%2FSupplementary_material_from_Evidence_of_active_sound_production_by_a_shark_%2F7720015&amp;file=52990585" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click this link to hear the noises made by these sharks during the hunt...</a>



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsos.242212" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Society Open Science</a>.&nbsp;



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Sharks recorded making terrifying sounds while hunting - despite not having vocal cords

For centuries, sharks have stirred fear and fascination. They glide...

Fruits and plant extracts have long been valued for their medicinal properties. Scientists are now working to better understand how these natural compounds might help prevent or treat disease, especially in the face of growing antibiotic resistance.



Recent research shows that certain plant extracts and fruit fibers may boost the immune system and even reduce the risk of chronic diseases.



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.lmu.de/en/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Munich</a> and the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) are teaming up to explore the power of medicinal plants in treating urinary tract infections (UTIs). 



At a lecture during FAPESP Week Germany at the Free University of Berlin, the team shared that they are building infection models to investigate how plant compounds affect bladder cells and immune response.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-medicinal-plants-may-block-infections">Medicinal plants may block infections</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/narrowing-the-search-for-new-medicinal-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Medicinal plants</a> contain phytochemicals that may help block infections and support the body’s defenses.



Some of these compounds may reduce inflammation, fever, or pain, but researchers are especially interested in how they might block infections.



“Although their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/anti-inflammatory-foods-lower-the-risk-of-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anti-inflammatory</a>, antipyretic and analgesic effects are well known, the active compounds of these plants - such as flavonoids, alkaloids and terpenoids - and their mechanisms of action on pathogen cells have yet to be characterized. Some are antibacterial, but many don’t have this effect,” said Ulrich Dobrindt, a professor at the University of Munich.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-extracts-and-bladder-cells">Plant extracts and bladder cells</h2>



To dig deeper, the scientists created infection models to observe how these extracts influence gene activity in bladder cells.



The experts are especially focused on plants listed in the German pharmacopoeia that have traditional use in treating urological issues.



Working with scientists at UFMG, the team tested extracts from plants like Solidago gigantea and Equiseti herba. 



They discovered that certain water-based extracts drastically reduced how well Escherichia coli, the main cause of UTIs, could stick to and survive in human bladder cells.



“We observed a drastic reduction in the adhesion and proliferation of this bacterium in bladder cells,” Ulrich said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fruit-fibers-and-digestive-health">Fruit fibers and digestive health</h2>



While their German colleagues focused on infection, researchers in Brazil are exploring how fruit fibers may support <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-coffee-promotes-digestive-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digestive health</a> and prevent disease. 



A team from the University of São Paulo’s School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, working with the Food Research Center (FoRC), is studying special polysaccharides - complex sugars that can’t be digested but may have powerful biological effects.



These sugars, especially pectins, are found in papaya, passion fruit, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/citrus-fruits-where-did-they-come-from-and-how-would-we-live-without-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">citrus fruits</a>. They are believed to help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. 



But extracting them can be tricky. Fruits like papaya ripen quickly, which changes the structure of the pectins and reduces their health benefits.



“During fruit ripening, enzymes are expressed that modify the structure of the pectins, reducing their beneficial biological effects. Passion fruit and citrus pectins, on the other hand, must be chemically modified in order to present beneficial activities in the intestine,” explained João Paulo Fabi, professor at the University of São Paulo and project coordinator.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-boosting-the-effectiveness-of-fruits">Boosting the effectiveness of fruits</h2>



To address these challenges, the Brazilian team created new methods to extract and alter pectin from the usually discarded white parts of oranges and passion fruit. 



By reducing their molecular complexity in the lab, the researchers were able to boost the pectins' effectiveness.



This led to one patent for extracting pectin from soft fruits like papaya and chayote. Another patent is being filed for a method to modify pectin from passion fruit leftovers.



“We already have a prototype for extracting and modifying these pectins on a laboratory scale. The idea is to obtain a product, such as a flour rich in modified pectin, that could be consumed as a supplement or food ingredient,” Fabi explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-and-fruits-the-future-of-medicine">Plants and fruits: The future of medicine</h2>



With their modified pectins, the team conducted animal studies in collaboration with other groups. These preclinical trials showed promising links between the altered pectins and improved biological activity in the body.



“These preclinical studies can serve as a basis for the development of clinical trials [with modified pectins] as adjuvants to chemotherapy treatment of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-bacteria-linked-to-younger-colon-cancer-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">colon cancer</a> or even as beneficial modulators of the intestinal microbiota,” said Fabi.



Together, these complementary projects from Brazil and Germany highlight the potential of natural substances in improving health - from preventing infections to supporting the gut.



As science continues to explore the benefits of what we eat, it’s becoming clearer that the healing power of plants may be more than just folklore - it might be the future of functional food and medicine.



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Fruits and plants are powerful allies for disease prevention

Fruits and plant extracts have long been valued for their...

Farmers rely on insecticides to protect their crops from damage by pests. But using them too often may lead to an unexpected side effect - more weeds.



A new study reveals that the way insecticides are applied can shape weed growth, especially in corn and soybean fields. 



Researchers from <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a> conducted a three-year study to understand the bigger picture. They compared two insecticide strategies: applying them preventively at planting, versus only applying them when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pesticides-have-become-increasingly-toxic-to-insects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insects</a> were actually present. 



The experts also tested how cover crops - plants grown after harvest to protect the soil - interact with both approaches.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insecticides-may-harm-helpful-insects">Insecticides may harm helpful insects</h2>



By the third year, the results showed a clear pattern. Fields treated with insecticides but left without cover crops ended up with more weeds, especially a type called marestail. In contrast, fields with cover crops didn’t have this issue - even if insecticides were used.



This finding raised questions. One possible reason, the researchers suggest, is that insecticides may be hurting more than just the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-use-a-molecular-alarm-system-to-respond-to-insect-pests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pests</a>. 



Some insects - like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-will-climate-impact-the-beetles-that-protect-our-crops/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beetles</a>, crickets, and ants - actually help by eating weed seeds. If these helpful insects are harmed by the insecticides, the weeds have more of a chance to thrive.



“Always using an insecticide at planting does not seem to be the best approach in Pennsylvania, considering that early-season insect pests tend to be a relatively uncommon problem,” said John Tooker, a professor of entomology in the College of Agricultural Sciences at Penn State.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-case-for-smarter-pest-control">A case for smarter pest control</h2>



The study supports the idea of integrated pest management (IPM). Instead of spraying chemicals by default, IPM involves monitoring fields and only treating them when necessary. This reduces harm to helpful insects and may keep weed populations in check.



“When taking an IPM approach, we advocate for using the right products at the right time to control the right pests, and that will also then help reduce these negative consequences of using these treatments too much,” said Tooker.



This message may be especially important now. Elizabeth Rowen, lead author of the study and assistant professor at the University of California, Riverside, said that weeds are getting harder to manage.



“Many of the seeds growers use were developed to not be killed by herbicides,” explained Rowen.



“This allows growers to use glyphosate to control weeds; however, this also results in the evolution of herbicide-resistant weeds, which makes it much harder to control weeds without killing the crops. So, having multiple strategies to help manage weeds is really important.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-less-insecticide-use">Benefits of less insecticide use</h2>



The study was carried out at Penn State’s Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-sweet-corn-at-high-densities-improves-yield/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Corn</a> and soybean plots were assigned one of three pest control treatments: preventive insecticides at the time of planting, IPM-based insecticides used only when needed, or no insecticides at all. Each treatment was tested with and without cover crops.



Over the course of three years, the researchers tracked many details. They measured cover crop growth, insect communities, seed predation, weed density, and crop yields.



The results showed that applying insecticides only when needed did not reduce productivity. In fact, it came with some added benefits - less pesticide use and better weed control when cover crops were involved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-limited-approach-pays-off">A limited approach pays off</h2>



“Oftentimes corn and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-virus-can-benefit-soybean-eating-insects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soybean</a> fields are so big that growers are inclined to do all of the management up front so they don't have to go back and walk the fields,” Tooker said. 



“But our evidence suggests that walking these fields to identify problems as they happen can provide clear benefits in terms of not needing certain pesticides, namely many of the fungicides and insecticides.”



Taking time to observe what’s actually happening in the soil and among the plants can reveal issues that automated treatments might overlook. 



This study reminds us that nature is full of connections. Choosing when and how to use insecticides may not just control pests - it can also change the entire balance of a field.



The research suggests that a slower, more watchful approach might lead to better results in the long run.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://peerj.com/articles/18597/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PeerJ</a>.



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Insecticides may be helping weeds thrive

Farmers rely on insecticides to protect their crops from damage...

For centuries, foie gras has graced the tables of royalty, chefs, and fine diners. Its creamy richness and deep flavor made it a culinary icon. But behind the luxury lies a harsh reality - one that has stirred protests, divided cultures, and triggered bans across nations.



Foie gras means “fatty liver” in French. Traditionally, it's made by force-feeding ducks or geese until their livers grow large and soft. Germany’s term, “Gänsestopfleber,” bluntly references its origins. 



Animal welfare groups have long opposed the practice. Cities like New York and countries like India have taken legal steps to limit or ban its production.



Still, demand has not vanished. Diners and chefs continue to admire foie gras for its taste and texture. The culinary world has struggled to find a satisfying, ethical replacement. Most plant-based or lab-grown <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-molecule-could-shape-the-future-of-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">versions</a> fall short in flavor or feel. 



But a group of scientists in Germany may have finally cracked the code.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recreating-foie-gras-without-cruelty">Recreating foie gras without cruelty</h2>



​At the&nbsp;Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research (<a href="https://www.mpip-mainz.mpg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MPI-P</a>)&nbsp;in Mainz, a team of physicists, chemists, and culinary enthusiasts teamed up for a bold experiment. With help from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sdu.dk/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southern Denmark</a>, they turned to data, microscopes, and texture analysis to reimagine foie gras without cruelty.​



The study's lead researcher, physicist Thomas Vilgis, also happens to be an avid home cook. He guided the group through months of food science and experimentation. The goal was simple but ambitious: to match the real thing in both flavor and mouthfeel - without harming animals.



“It has always been a goal to reproduce the taste and texture of real foie gras while not losing sight of animal welfare,” said Thomas Vilgis of MPI-P.



This wasn’t a culinary guessing game. They relied on precise tools to explore the microstructure of foie gras. Microscopes showed how fat settled in the liver and how collagen formed a soft, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frozen-food-new-thawing-methods-will-improve-safety-and-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supportive network</a>. 



They also used rheological tests to simulate the chewing process and melting sensation on the tongue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-makes-foie-gras-unique">What makes foie gras unique</h2>



The research showed that foie gras isn't just fatty liver - it’s a delicate balance of collagen, fat, and moisture. The collagen gives it structure and softness, while irregular fat clumps create its creamy, melt-away finish.



With these details in hand, the team began crafting their version. They started by simmering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flowers-as-food-how-ultrasound-makes-it-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">collagen</a>-rich tissues such as animal skin, which could provide that tender texture. Then, they added liver and fat in different ratios, trying to mimic the original’s complexity.



However, each batch left something missing. The texture didn’t quite match. The mouthfeel was either too firm or too smooth. Collagen tweaks helped only slightly. After many failed attempts, the experts realized they needed a new strategy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-turning-to-nature-for-a-clue">Turning to nature for a clue</h2>



The breakthrough came with a small but powerful idea. They introduced goose lipases - natural enzymes used by birds to break down fat in their digestive systems. These enzymes had never been used in this context before.



By treating the fat with these enzymes, the team saw immediate changes. The fat began forming larger, irregular clumps. These formations closely resembled what they observed in real foie gras under the microscope.



The mouthfeel changed dramatically. It now melted and coated the tongue just like the original. Collagen alone had not done the job, but the enzyme-altered fat transformed the entire product.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-ethical-copy-with-authentic-taste">An ethical copy with authentic taste</h2>



The texture wasn’t the only improvement. The flavor took a step forward, too. Though still a prototype, this enzyme-treated pâté tasted remarkably close to real foie gras. The team avoided using synthetic additives or artificial enhancers.



Vilgis pushed for a clean recipe. He focused on the basic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-pistachio-dna-is-shaping-the-future-of-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ingredients</a> and how to manipulate them using science. No extra chemicals. No flavor boosters. Just technique, temperature, and timing.



He has now filed a patent to protect this approach. Talks are underway to explore commercial production. Future phases may involve chefs and sensory scientists to fine-tune taste and aroma. For now, the product holds promise as the most authentic and ethical foie gras alternative yet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-gourmet-without-cruelty">Future of gourmet without cruelty</h2>



This research shows what happens when science, ethics, and passion collide. 



It opens a new chapter for culinary traditions that once depended on animal suffering. Rather than discard foie gras altogether, Vilgis and his team reimagined it from the ground up.



Their creation is not just a lab product - it’s a culinary experience built with care and precision. The research has been published in <a href="https://pubs.aip.org/aip/pof/article/37/3/037196/3340498/Foie-gras-pate-without-force-feeding" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physics of Fluids</a>, a journal more known for fluid dynamics than fine dining. But here, science and food met in harmony.



It’s too early to know how chefs and food lovers will receive this version. Yet, it offers a path where taste and ethics can finally share the same plate.



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Cruelty-free foie gras made with enzymes, not force-feeding

For centuries, foie gras has graced the tables of royalty,...

Intact forests once absorbed 7.8 billion tonnes of CO₂ each year, about one-fifth of global emissions. Today, their reliability is fading. Climate change, deforestation, and land degradation now threaten this vast carbon sink.



A new study by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (<a href="https://www.pik-potsdam.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PIK</a>) raises alarms. The experts warn that relying on forests to deliver consistent carbon removal is no longer a safe bet.



Worse still, most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-forests-are-struggling-to-keep-pace-with-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate strategies</a> still assume forests will expand and stay resilient.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dangerous-gamble-with-carbon-storage">Dangerous gamble with carbon storage</h2>



Michael G. Windisch, the lead author of the study, highlights the growing risk. 



“Our climate strategies bet on forests not only remaining intact, but even expanding,” he said. But with rising wildfires and Amazon deforestation, this is a fragile assumption.



Forests are vulnerable to pests, disease, drought, and other climate-driven <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-undisturbed-forests-support-greater-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changes</a>. If these threats intensify, forests may begin to release more carbon than they store. That would wipe out years of progress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-risks-of-depending-on-forests">The risks of depending on forests</h2>



The study outlines three key risks. First, we depend on existing forests to stay intact. Second, we rely on them to keep removing carbon each year. Furthermore, we plan to increase forest cover for future carbon removal. If any part fails, the whole plan collapses.



This is why the researchers stress caution. Immediate action is essential to prevent forest disturbances from derailing climate goals. Postponing action by just five years can double the mitigation cost and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-day-2025-a-global-call-to-protect-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effort</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-models-confirm-forest-risks">Climate models confirm forest risks </h2>



The researchers used REMIND-MAgPIE, a climate and land-use model, along with the LPJmL vegetation model. They introduced disturbance rates - events like pest outbreaks, fire, and wind damage - into their scenarios.



Their findings? Even low disturbance rates drastically affect outcomes. Myopic policy responses that delay action lead to steeper emission cuts and higher costs. 



The models show that a five-year delay doubles the pressure on all sectors, especially energy and land use.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-costs-soar-as-forest-sinks-shrink">Climate costs soar as forest sinks shrink</h2>



Under immediate action, the carbon price by 2050 rises to $327 per tonne. But with delay, that shoots up to $483. GDP losses also increase from 2.4 to 2.7 percent.



The energy sector suffers more in myopic scenarios. Renewables must scale up much faster. Fossil fuel use must fall more steeply. The industry and transport sectors, especially, bear heavier burdens.



Negative emissions technologies like BECCS and DACCS become essential. But delayed action means building them faster and larger, increasing pressure on land and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-forests-rose-again-after-the-planets-most-extreme-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">budgets</a>.



In delayed scenarios, land demand for mitigation jumps to 563 million hectares - larger than the European Union. That’s 149 million hectares more than if action were taken immediately.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forests-need-surveillance-not-assumptions">Forests need surveillance, not assumptions</h2>



Many global climate models ignore natural disturbances or assume forests react positively to rising CO₂. But evidence shows otherwise. Phosphorus limits and shifting ecosystems reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/older-forests-do-not-necessarily-store-more-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>’ ability to absorb carbon.



Some models also underestimate human impact, assuming forest lands are quickly and efficiently reused. In reality, land speculation and mismanagement delay recovery.



“Forests are not an infinite resource,” Florian Humpenöder warns. He urges immediate monitoring and realistic projections. Only then can we act fast when carbon sinks weaken.



The study also shows that myopic responses to small disturbances demand more effort than immediate responses to double those disturbances. Every delay becomes costlier than we expect.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forests-can-t-solve-the-climate-crisis">Forests can't solve the climate crisis </h2>



“We must act immediately to safeguard the carbon stored in forests,” said Windisch. Without foresight, future generations may inherit a climate plan full of gaps.



“Alongside protecting forests, it is essential to promote sustainable land use practices,” added study co-author Alexander Popp. This includes conserving biodiversity and avoiding reckless land expansion.



Forests are crucial - but they can’t solve the climate crisis alone. The study leaves no room for wishful thinking. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-play-an-overlooked-role-in-the-climate-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forests</a> will face more stress in the future. Assuming otherwise puts climate goals at risk.



Instead of hoping forests remain stable, policies must adjust. Immediate, coordinated action across all sectors can still deliver on the Paris targets - but the window is closing.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-57607-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Forests can no longer carry the climate burden alone

Intact forests once absorbed 7.8 billion tonnes of CO₂ each...

species in Cystodiaceae

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