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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the European Space Agency features Nushagak Bay, a large estuary in southwest Alaska. Nushagak runs mainly north to south and exits in Bristol Bay, a large body of water in the Bering Sea. "The bay is primarily fed by the Nushagak River, which begins in the Alaska Range and flows southwest approximately 450 km. The bay is also fed by several additional rivers including the Wood, Igushik, Snake and Weary rivers," says ESA. "The dark colors of the...

An asteroid impact on Mars 11 million years ago sent fragments of the red planet hurtling through space. One of these pieces eventually crashed into Earth, making its way to Purdue University and becoming known as the Lafayette Meteorite.&nbsp;



This rare find has been instrumental in unlocking secrets of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/manganese-discovery-ancient-mars-earth-like-water-lake-habitable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>’ watery past, with new research recently published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.7185/geochemlet.2443" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geochemical Perspective Letters</a> that provides insight into the timing and nature of Mars’ ancient water activity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-mars-watery-past">Tracing Mars’ watery past</h2>



Scientists have long known that the Lafayette Meteorite interacted with liquid water on Mars, but the exact timing of this event was uncertain.&nbsp;



Dr. Marissa Tremblay, an assistant professor at Purdue University’s <a href="https://www.eaps.purdue.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences</a> (EAPS), led an international research team to determine the age of the water-altered minerals in the meteorite, pinpointing it to 742 million years ago.



“Dating these minerals can therefore tell us when there was liquid water at or near the surface of Mars in the planet's geologic past,” Tremblay explained.&nbsp;



The findings suggest that while liquid water wasn’t abundant on the surface at this time, it likely came from melting subsurface ice, or permafrost, caused by intermittent volcanic activity - a phenomenon still observed on Mars today.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-a-moment-in-mars-geological-timeline">Preserving a moment in Mars’ geological timeline</h2>



The study not only identified when water interacted with the meteorite but also established that the dating was unaffected by events after the meteorite left Mars.&nbsp;



“The age could have been affected by the impact that ejected the Lafayette Meteorite from Mars, the heating it experienced during the 11 million years it was floating in space, or the heating when it fell to Earth,” Tremblay said.&nbsp;



However, the team confirmed that none of these factors altered the age, validating the timeline of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-lost-most-of-its-water-but-where-did-it-go/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> interaction.



Study co-author and Purdue EAPS researcher Ryan Ickert applied heavy isotope analysis to further verify that previous data on the meteorite’s water-rock interaction had likely been skewed by other geological processes.&nbsp;&nbsp;



“This meteorite uniquely has evidence that it has reacted with water. The exact date of this was controversial, and our publication dates when water was present,” said Ickert.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysterious-journey-of-the-meteorite">Mysterious journey of the meteorite </h2>



The Lafayette Meteorite’s journey to Purdue is something of a mystery. It was found in a university drawer in 1931, though how it got there remains unknown.&nbsp;



In previous research, Tremblay and her team used crop disease markers from organic contaminants found on the meteorite to narrow down when it might have fallen to Earth.



Once the meteorite was ejected from Mars, it endured constant cosmic ray bombardment in space, which produced certain isotopes, offering clues to its time of impact on Earth.&nbsp;



“Many meteoroids are produced by impacts on Mars and other planetary bodies, but only a handful will eventually fall to Earth,” Tremblay said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-time-capsules">Planetary time capsules</h2>



Meteorites like Lafayette serve as planetary time capsules, offering invaluable data on the geological and environmental history of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-meteorites-can-be-traced-to-three-asteroid-families/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">home worlds</a>. With their dense structure, metallic content, and magnetic properties, meteorites are often distinguishable from Earth rocks.&nbsp;



“We can identify meteorites by studying what minerals are present in them, their mineral relationships, and by checking for a fusion crust formed during entry into Earth’s atmosphere,” Tremblay explained.&nbsp;



By analyzing these traits and their chemical signatures, scientists can often determine a meteorite’s planetary origin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-history-of-meteorites">Complex history of meteorites</h2>



This research marks a significant milestone for the team, which included scientists from institutions across the globe, such as the Scottish Universities Environmental Research Center (SUERC), the University of St. Andrews, the University of Glasgow, the University of Bristol, and London’s <a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Natural History Museum</a>.&nbsp;



“Before moving to Purdue, Ryan and I were both based at SUERC, where the argon-argon isotopic analyses of the alteration minerals in Lafayette took place,” Tremblay said.&nbsp;



Their partners at SUERC and the Natural History Museum have long contributed to studying Lafayette’s complex history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dating-minerals-in-meteorites">Dating minerals in meteorites</h2>



Dating the water-altered minerals in Lafayette, and others in its class of Martian meteorites called nakhlites, has been a central focus in planetary science, as they uniquely capture moments when liquid water was present on Mars.&nbsp;



Due to complex alterations over time, previous attempts to date these minerals were plagued with uncertainties.&nbsp;



However, the team has now developed a robust dating method that could be applied to other meteorites, enhancing our understanding of when water might have been present on Mars and other planetary bodies.



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



Thanks to the Stahura Undergraduate Meteorite Fund, Tremblay and Ickert’s research on the Lafayette Meteorite will continue, with the involvement of undergraduate students in Purdue EAPS.&nbsp;



This opportunity allows students to engage in real-world planetary science, helping to reveal the intricate histories of meteoritic samples.



Tremblay and her team’s work on the Lafayette Meteorite highlights its scientific significance, revealing a complex history that ties it to Mars’ geological past.&nbsp;



Their findings not only deepen our understanding of Mars but also set a precedent for future studies that might unveil even more about the red planet’s climate history, water activity, and potential for supporting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-mars-rocks-contain-signs-of-life-scientists-call-to-bring-them-back-to-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life</a>.



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Meteorite that struck Mars reveals when the planet had liquid water

An asteroid impact on Mars 11 million years ago sent...

Scientists have uncovered a disturbing twist in how climate change affects our oceans, revealing that tiny changes at the bottom of the food chain can have massive impacts on most fish populations.



The findings of a recent study highlight the intricate workings of the ocean's food web and how it's more vulnerable to warming temperatures than previously thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tiny-ocean-creatures-big-fish-impact">Tiny ocean creatures, big fish impact</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-heatwaves-have-complex-effects-on-phytoplankton-food-web/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Phytoplankton</a> are tiny, plant-like organisms that float around in oceans, seas, and lakes. Even though you can't see them without a microscope, they're incredibly important. 



They use sunlight to make their own food through photosynthesis, just like plants do on land. In the process, they produce a huge amount of the Earth's oxygen -- some estimates say up to half of it. 



These little guys are the starting point of the food chain in aquatic environments, feeding small fish, shrimp, and other marine creatures.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-from-africa-sparked-a-massive-phytoplankton-bloom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Phytoplankton</a> also play a big role in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to regulate our planet's climate. But they're sensitive to changes in their environment, like warming waters.



When climate models predict that warming oceans will reduce phytoplankton levels by 16% to 26% in regions like the North Atlantic, it's a cause for concern.



But here's where it gets alarming: the study found that this seemingly modest drop in phytoplankton could slash the ocean's capacity to support fish by a staggering 38% to 55%. That's more than double the initial decrease in phytoplankton.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-phytoplankton-and-the-hidden-amplifier">Phytoplankton and the hidden amplifier</h2>



Dr. Angus Atkinson from the <a href="https://pml.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plymouth Marine Laboratory</a> and Dr. Axel Rossberg of <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University</a> of London led the research team behind this discovery.



They took a straightforward approach by examining real-world data on plankton sizes from oceans, seas, and lakes around the globe. 



By looking at the sizes of plankton, they could determine how efficiently energy moves up the food chain -- from tiny phytoplankton to the fish we rely on.



This amplification effect hinges on a surprising twist: temperature, often blamed for food web disruptions, appears to play a secondary role. 



Instead, the key driver is the overall amount of phytoplankton, which governs how efficiently energy flows from tiny plankton to larger fish.



"Our global analysis sheds light on a hidden vulnerability," explained Dr. Atkinson. "We were surprised to find temperature didn't directly affect food web efficiency. Instead, we see ecosystems <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/invisible-forest-of-phytoplankton-thrives-in-a-warming-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adapting to warming</a> by changing plankton size. "



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutrients-the-unsung-hero">Nutrients: The unsung hero</h2>



In the open ocean, nutrients come from deeper waters. As the surface warms, it becomes more layered, making it harder for these nutrients to reach the <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/spectacular-phytoplankton-bloom-in-the-north-atlantic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phytoplankton at the top</a>.



"Close to shore or in lakes, excess nutrients from land can cause imbalances like harmful algal blooms," notes Dr. Rossberg. 



"But at the vast scales relevant to climate change, it's the lack of nutrients from deeper waters that becomes the major bottleneck."



To clarify, warming oceans, seas, and lakes impact fish indirectly by reducing nutrient supply from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toxic-legacy-decades-old-ddt-found-in-deep-sea-fish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deeper waters</a>, ultimately shrinking phytoplankton size and hindering energy transfer throughout the food web.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-real-world-impact-for-ocean-fish">Real world impact for ocean fish</h2>



When phytoplankton numbers change, the impact can ripple through the entire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oceans-twilight-zone-stabilizes-the-marine-food-chain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine ecosystem</a>, impacting everything from water quality to the abundance of fish.



This isn't just a problem for the fish; it's a problem the planet. Many communities around the world depend on fishing for food and livelihood. 



The study highlights the need to consider climate change impacts when managing fisheries.



"Global averages can mask the true picture," explains Dr. Atkinson. "Some of the most significant projected declines are in areas with concentrated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-stocks-are-collapsing-globally-as-overfishing-continues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing activities</a>."



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



So, what can we do about it? The researchers suggest a multi-pronged approach to ensure sustainable fisheries in the face of climate change. 



"We need a combination of data on plankton size structure and sophisticated computer simulation models to design truly 'climate-smart' ocean protection strategies," concludes Dr. Rossberg. 



"By understanding the hidden amplifiers within the food web, we can better safeguard the future of our oceans and the vital resources they provide."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oceans-fish-and-the-global-food-chain">Oceans, fish, and the global food chain</h2>



To sum it all up, these scientists found that even a small drop in phytoplankton levels due to warming oceans can massively reduce fish populations. 



They discovered that it's not just the temperature rise itself causing problems, but the decrease in nutrients reaching these tiny organisms. 



This leads to smaller plankton and less efficient energy transfer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-awakening-arctic-food-webs-are-transforming-from-green-to-brown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">up the food chain</a>, which is bad news for fish and, by extension, us.



This study underscores underscores the interconnectedness of Earth's ecosystem. Tiny changes at the bottom can have huge impacts at the top. 



It's a reminder that we need to pay attention to even the smallest players in the ecosystem if we want to protect the health of our planet. 



By understanding these hidden mechanisms, we can work towards smarter strategies to safeguard our oceans and the communities that rely on them.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-44406-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Earth’s oceans, seas, and lakes are quickly losing their ability to keep fish alive

Scientists have uncovered a disturbing twist in how climate change...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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How does genome size impact evolutionary success?

Every living organism relies on a genetic blueprint encoded in...

Rainforests are not just a symbol of natural beauty; they are a crucial component of our planet’s ecosystem. Yet, climate change poses an imminent threat to these vital habitats and beyond.



Up to two-thirds of the world’s temperate rainforests could fall victim to climate change by the year 2100 according to a new study by researchers at the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leeds</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-assessment-of-temperate-rainforests">Global assessment of temperate rainforests</h2>



The study is one of its kind - the first-ever global assessment of the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/temperate-rainforests-can-help-fight-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> on temperate rainforests.



"Temperate rainforests are rare ecosystems found only in wet and cool regions, making them vulnerable to a warming climate. They are important to conserve because they host unique species and can store high amounts of carbon," noted the study authors. 



With the help of comprehensive maps detailing tree cover, forest conditions, and climate data, the researchers were able to evaluate how human activity and climate change have collectively impacted the world's temperate rainforests and how they might continue to do so.



Although covering less than one percent of the Earth's land surface, temperate rainforests have a significant role to play. The forests are located in many countries such as Canada, the United States, Chile, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.



They are globally acknowledged for their ecological importance. Their high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-forests-are-losing-their-carbon-storage-capacity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon storage capacity</a> exceeds that of forests in other latitudes.



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



The researchers predict that in the most pessimistic scenario, we stand to lose up to 68 percent of our planet's temperate rainforests in the coming decades. In certain regions, this loss might reach a staggering 90 percent.



However, there's a silver lining: our actions can change the trajectory. If we take robust measures against <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Ffossil-carbon-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil fuel</a> emissions, the projected loss would be only about 23 percent.



Rapid and decisive actions could further curtail this loss to a mere nine percent. This, once again, emphasizes the dire need for urgent, effective steps to counter climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-the-most-vulnerable-forests">Identifying the most vulnerable forests</h2>



The research was led by Ben Silver, a research fellow at Leeds' School of Earth and Environment.



"Unmitigated climate change is a disaster for temperate rainforest in the UK and globally, as they cannot survive the kinds of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scorching-summer-of-2024-could-make-it-the-hottest-year-on-record/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">high summer temperatures</a> which we are starting to observe more regularly and are only predicted to worsen in future climate change simulations," said Silver. 



"Our study also shows that if we work hard to slow climate change it is not too late to save the world’s temperate rainforests." 



"We hope our study will support the conservation of temperate rainforests by identifying those areas that are the least or the most vulnerable to climate change, and where there is potential to restore forest."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-british-rainforests-a-case-study">British rainforests: A case study</h2>



Temperate rainforests dot the UK's western seaboard, forming one of the most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/landscapes-with-a-mix-of-habitats-are-biodiversity-hotspots/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiverse habitats</a>.



It's here that the high humidity and low temperature range create the perfect conditions for moisture-loving lichens and bryophytes.



Britain's temperate rainforests cover less than one percent of the land. Yet, the UK stands with more potential for restoration than any other place globally, hosting a quarter of the world's unforested temperate rainforest climate zone.



The researchers found that temperate rainforests in the UK are resilient to low and medium amounts of future warming.



Professor Dominick Spracklen, co-author of the study, emphasized the need for the UK to lead the world in temperate rainforest restoration.



"The UK could and should be a global leader in restoration of temperate rainforests. New funding and bold action by large landowners are urgently needed to help deliver government targets for temperate rainforest restoration," said Spracklen.



Dr. Dominick A. DellaSala, Chief Scientist of the U.S group Wild Heritage, reiterated the importance of the world’s rainforests as the "lungs of the planet."



"All the world’s rainforests are the ‘lungs of the planet’ that must be protected and restored as natural climate solutions to avoid the worst of global overheating," said Dr. DellaSalla.



"Temperate rainforests need to take their place alongside tropical rainforests and the boreal forests of the north as strategically vital to a safe climate."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2024EF004812" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's Future</a>.



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Two-thirds of temperate rainforests could be lost this century

Rainforests are not just a symbol of natural beauty; they...

In a fast-paced world, where climate change and environmental degradation are dominant topics, we might often forget about the smallest marine inhabitants of our planet - the planktonic foraminifera.



A recently published study reminds us of their importance and why we should pay attention to these tiny marine organisms.



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



Planktonic foraminifera are tiny, single-celled organisms that inhabit the ocean. They carry calcium carbonate shells - a critical component to the overall health and functioning of our marine ecosystems.



However, they now face <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-shatters-heat-records-earths-hottest-year-is-here/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unprecedented environmental conditions</a> due to climate change, potentially crossing their survival thresholds by the end of this century.



These organisms are not just witnessing environmental changes; their very existence is at stake, especially in tropical regions.



Shifting environmental conditions, primarily due to climate change, could trigger a wave of extinctions that will adversely impact the marine ecosystems and the carbon storage capacity of the ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unsettling-climate-trends">Unsettling climate trends</h2>



How have we come to know about these dramatic changes and potential consequences? Scientists from France, Germany, the Netherlands, Japan, and Spain teamed up to conduct exhaustive research.



The experts analyzed nearly 200,000 datasets, dating back to 1910, to examine how climate change affects these small but <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-plankton-play-a-big-role-in-the-global-carbon-cycle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vital creatures</a>.



The findings were unsettling, to say the least. Many foraminifera species are migrating towards the poles in pursuit of cooler waters, with migration rates up to 10 kilometers per year (6.21 miles per year).



Some species are trying to escape the rising surface temperatures by moving deeper into the ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-is-harming-marine-species">Climate change is harming marine species</h2>



Despite their best efforts to adapt and survive, foraminifera <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-from-africa-sparked-a-massive-phytoplankton-bloom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a> have plummeted by a staggering 25% over the past 80 years. 



Tropical species have suffered the most, as the intense warming in these regions hinders their reproductive cycles.



But the challenges don't end there. The rising levels of CO2 and ocean acidification are also inhibiting the formation of calcium carbonate (CaCO3), the very substance these creatures use to build their shells.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distressed-organisms-in-the-ocean">Distressed organisms in the ocean</h2>



Why should we care about these tiny shells? There's a vital reason. 



"These organisms are like sentinels, warning us of the drastic effects that warming and acidification have on&nbsp;marine ecosystems," said Sonia Chaabane, the study's lead author and researcher at CEREGE and the <a href="https://www.mpg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Chemistry</a>.



When foraminifera die, their empty shells sink to the seafloor, trapping carbon in the process. Thus, when shell production decreases, so does the carbon stored in the ocean depths. 



This signals troubling times ahead, as it will disrupt the ocean's carbon cycle, a critical aspect of global climate regulation.



Our understanding of the complex interplay between climate and marine ecosystems should not be limited to individual measurements. 



Instead, as Ralf Schiebel from the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry suggests, bioindicators like foraminifera can give us a more comprehensive picture.



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



The current trends offer a sobering glimpse into a future where the intricate balance of marine ecosystems is severely disrupted. If the deteriorating conditions for planktonic foraminifera continue unchecked, the cascading effects could result in the destabilization of entire marine food webs. 



Species higher up the food chain, including those crucial to human consumption, would face monumental pressure as their foundational food sources dwindle. 



Scientists and policymakers are now emphasizing the need for dramatically reducing carbon emissions and implementing conservation practices to mitigate further environmental impacts.



With international cooperation and a commitment to sustainable practices, there is hope for reversing these alarming trends.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marine-species-in-a-warming-climate">Marine species in a warming climate </h2>



Beyond raising concerns, this research highlights the vast potential of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plankton-help-predict-ocean-biodiversity-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studying marine microorganisms</a> as a way to understand and combat the effects of climate change. 



Planktonic foraminifera, as part of the ocean's biological community, offer insights that extend beyond their immediate ecological role. 



They serve as a proxy to understand historical climate patterns and predict future shifts in environmental conditions. Engaging with these studies encourages a broader appreciation of Earth's biodiversity and its interconnectedness. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08191-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



Image Credit: Sonia Chaabane, Julien Sulpis



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Alarming climate impacts threaten key marine species

In a fast-paced world, where climate change and environmental degradation...

Scientists have uncovered an intriguing tale of galactic growth, featuring mysterious “red monsters” that are revealing new secrets of the young universe.



An international team of experts led by the University of Geneva (UNIGE) has discovered three ultra-massive galaxies - each almost as substantial as the Milky Way - that emerged within the first billion years following the Big Bang.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-theory-of-galaxy-formation">Theory of galaxy formation</h2>



This discovery surprised scientists because it challenges the popular theory of galaxy formation. According to current models, galaxies grow slowly within large halos of dark matter. 



These halos, which are invisible structures, pull in gas that eventually forms stars. Traditionally, scientists believed only about 20% of this gas would turn into stars in these galaxies.



However, the findings from the UNIGE team show that these early massive galaxies were exceptionally efficient at creating stars. They produced stars much faster and in larger numbers than expected, growing at an extraordinary rate compared to galaxies that formed later. 



This unexpected efficiency suggests that early galaxies grew in ways scientists hadn’t previously considered, prompting a rethink of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-galaxies-formed-from-the-earliest-elements-in-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy formation theories</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-three-red-monsters">The three "red monsters"</h2>



The James Webb Space Telescope's FRESCO program made this remarkable discovery possible.



The beauty of the FRESCO program lies in its cutting-edge tool, the NIRCam/grism spectrograph, which enables accurate measurement of the distance and stellar masses of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-galaxy-formation-occurred-much-faster-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>.



Thanks to the superior capabilities of <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JWST</a>, astronomers have been able to study galaxies in the distant and early universe systematically - including massive and dust-obscured galaxies.



Upon examining the galaxies in the FRESCO survey, most galaxies conformed to existing models. Yet, the team found three galaxies that were surprisingly massive.



Due to their high dust content, which gives them a unique red appearance in JWST images, the giant galaxies are now known as the "red monsters."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unveiling-the-hidden-red-monsters">Unveiling the hidden red monsters</h2>



Dr. Mengyuan Xiao, the lead author of the study, is a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Astronomy at <a href="https://www.unige.ch/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNIGE</a> Faculty of Science.



Dr. Xiao joined forces with Dr. David Elbaz, director of research at CEA Paris-Saclay, to investigate the red monsters.



“Our findings are reshaping our understanding of galaxy formation in the early universe,” noted Dr. Xiao.



“The massive properties of these red monsters were hardly determined before JWST, as they are optically invisible due to dust attenuation,” said Dr. Elbaz.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-growth-of-galaxies-over-time">Studying the growth of galaxies over time</h2>



Using the James Webb telescope, the researchers developed an innovative program which enables the systematic analysis of a complete sample of emission-line galaxies within the first billion years of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-way-like-galaxies-were-present-in-the-early-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic history</a>.



This program allowed the team to achieve precise distance estimates and reliable stellar mass measurements for the full galaxy sample.



Pascal Oesch is an associate professor in the Department of Astronomy at the UNIGE and principal investigator of the observation program.



“Our findings highlight the remarkable power of NIRCam/grism spectroscopy," noted Oesch. "The instrument on board the space telescope allows us to identify and study the growth of galaxies over time, and to obtain a clearer picture of how stellar mass accumulates over the course of cosmic history.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-too-many-too-massive-galaxies">"Too many, too massive" galaxies</h2>



The discovery of these massive galaxies challenges existing ideas about how galaxies form.



The findings highlight the presence of an unexpectedly high number of large galaxies - "too many, too massive" galaxies - very early in the universe’s history.



This suggests that existing models may be missing certain processes or factors that allowed some galaxies to grow rapidly right after the Big Bang.



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



To understand these giant galaxies better, scientists will continue observing them with powerful instruments like JWST and ALMA.



These tools can offer more detailed views and help find more of these ultra-massive galaxies, deepening our understanding of galaxy formation in the early universe and potentially revising the models of cosmic evolution.



Future endeavors hold the promise of addressing lingering questions about the universe’s dark matter content, stellar formation processes, and the dynamic behavior of galaxies over cosmic time scales.



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



The discoveries with JWST have significantly contributed to our understanding of cosmic origins, particularly by offering new perspectives on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early universe</a>.



These revelations challenge the existing paradigms of universe evolution, suggesting that even in the nascent stages following the Big Bang, there existed environments ripe for the rapid growth and formation of the red monsters.



“These results indicate that galaxies in the early universe could form stars with unexpected efficiency," said Dr. Xiao.



"As we study these galaxies in more depth, they will offer new insights into the conditions that shaped the universe’s earliest epochs. The red monsters are just the beginning of a new era in our exploration of the early universe."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08094-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



Image Credit: NASA / CSA / ESA / M. Xiao &amp; P. A. Oesch / G. Brammer / Dawn JWST Archive



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'Red monsters' challenge what we know about the early universe

Scientists have uncovered an intriguing tale of galactic growth, featuring...

Air pollution is an invisible adversary that continues to plague societies across the globe, threatening public health and the environment in profound ways.



Emerging research is revealing the extent of its impact, suggesting that the air we breathe might contribute to more than just respiratory afflictions.



A recent study conducted by researchers at <a href="https://wayne.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wayne State University</a>, Johns Hopkins University, and Mass General Brigham has revealed an alarming correlation between air pollution and certain types of cancer.



The research has uncovered a link between persistently high levels of airborne pollutant particulate matter and increased instances of head and neck aerodigestive cancer. The findings highlight the urgent need for further investigation and preventive measures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-link-between-air-pollution-and-cancer">Hidden link between air pollution and cancer</h2>



The research spotlights a lesser-studied yet critical aspect of air pollution and its potential long-term impacts on human health.



Historically, research into air pollution and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-increases-the-risk-of-non-lung-cancers-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a> has primarily focused on lower respiratory system cancers, such as those affecting the lungs and bronchial pathways. 



This study, however, ventures into relatively unchartered and concerning territory, exploring how pollutants impact the upper aerodigestive tract and contribute to head and neck cancers.



“Head and neck cancer is a harder link to show, and it has a much lower occurrence than lung cancers, but since they also occur as a result of smoking, similar to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-may-trigger-lung-cancer-in-non-smokers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lung cancers</a>, we wanted to explore any connections," said study co-author Dr. John Cramer.



"Presumably, the link to head and neck cancer comes from what we breathe to that material affecting the lining in the head and neck. We see a lot of occurrences of where carcinogens touch or pool in the body to where cancers can occur."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overlooked-impacts-of-air-pollution">Overlooked impacts of air pollution</h2>



Dr. Stella Lee is an expert in the Center for Surgery and Public Health and Division of Otolaryngology-Head &amp; Neck Surgery at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. 



She emphasized the need to broaden the study of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/specific-air-pollutants-linked-to-asthma-attacks-in-urban-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air pollutants</a> beyond their impact on lung disease.



"These findings shed light on the significant role of environmental pollution in cancers of the upper aerodigestive tract, highlighting the need for further awareness, research and mitigation efforts," said Dr. Lee.



The team analyzed data from the U.S. Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) national cancer database, covering the years 2002-2012.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-influence-of-pm2-5">The influence of PM2.5 </h2>



The research was particularly focused on PM2.5, a type of particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 microns. The team investigated the potential influence of PM2.5 on the incidence of head and neck aerodigestive cancer.



“The size of the particles is relevant because the classic model for studying the upper airways is that the nose and throat act as filters before it gets into the lungs," said Dr. Cramer.



"Larger particles are filtered out, but we are conceptualizing that different types of pollution hit different parts of the airways.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-envisioning-a-breath-of-fresh-air">Envisioning a breath of fresh air</h2>



The connection between environmental health and human health is an undeniable reality.



"Our study highlights the need to improve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-air-quality-trends-revealed-in-new-images/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality</a> standards in order to decrease the risk of developing cancer, including head and neck cancer," said study co-author Dr. Amanda Dilger.



This research serves as a call to action, shedding light on the crucial role of air quality in our overall health. 



By informing the public and influencing policy, it could potentially be a significant step in our collective journey towards cleaner air and healthier lives.



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



The findings highlight an urgent need for stricter air quality regulations. 



Establishing a link between PM2.5 and head and neck cancer demonstrates that the consequences of air pollution reach far beyond respiratory conditions, calling for comprehensive public health measures.



Prioritizing enhanced monitoring and effective emission reduction strategies is essential to limit exposure to these harmful particulates. 



Public health campaigns can raise awareness and empower communities to take protective actions, while policymakers can leverage this evidence to establish cleaner energy initiatives and stricter emissions standards.



The research serves as a crucial reminder that combating air pollution is not just about protecting the environment - it is fundamental to preserving human health and well-being.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-73756-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Air pollution linked to higher rates of head and neck cancer

Air pollution is an invisible adversary that continues to plague...

Do you ever stop to wonder how much our lifestyle demands of Earth’s resources? Or how we could adapt our way of life to fit within Earth's boundaries?



The world's population stands at a staggering eight billion. Every human's consumption pattern significantly impacts our environment. So, what cost does our lifestyle impose on the Earth?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-boundaries-pushing-the-limits">Planetary boundaries: Pushing the limits</h2>



Our carbon footprint is no secret. Since the 1960s, we have witnessed a rapid increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration, triggering global warming and its <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fai-predicts-global-warmings-impact-on-extreme-weather%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">perilous impacts</a>. 



This surge in CO2 levels is just one aspect of our human lifestyle that pushes the limits of our planet.



Back in 2009, scientists identified nine “planetary boundaries.” Crossing these thresholds pushes our planet towards irreversible damage and instability.



These boundaries represent aspects like ocean acidification and global fresh-water utilization. As of 2023, we have already stepped over six of the planetary boundaries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-keeping-lifestyles-within-earth-s-limits">Keeping lifestyles within Earth's limits</h2>



This study was led by Professor Klaus Hubacek, Science, Technology, and Society scholar at the <a href="https://www.rug.nl/?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Groningen</a>, Netherlands. 



His academic pursuits revolve around scrutinizing humanity's performance in relation to the planetary boundaries, and identifying changes to prevent us from traversing them further.



"The basic calculation is: given a certain number of people on the planet and the planetary boundaries, how much can we consume to stay inside these limits?” said Hubacek.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-rich-poor-divide-is-massive">The rich-poor divide is massive</h2>



Did you know that just one percent of the world population contributes to 50 times more greenhouse gases than the bottom half - four billion people?



This gaping wealth disparity is a consistent theme within Hubacek's work. One of his papers, recently published in the journal Nature, is specifically focused on this issue.



This paper, backed by a massive dataset covering 201 consumption groups across 168 countries, examines the implications of varying spending habits on six key environmental indicators. 



The findings reveal that a shift towards more sustainable consumption habits by the world's wealthiest 20 percent could slash their environmental impact by 25 to 53 percent.



Moreover, modifying consumption patterns in the food and services sectors might help shift several planetary boundaries back within safety limits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-our-lifestyle-and-earth-s-resources">Balancing our lifestyle and Earth's resources</h2>



Hubacek doesn't only illuminate the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-environment-day-2024-a-call-for-land-restoration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">issue</a>; he also provides possible solutions. In a <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-024-02084-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">paper</a> he co-authored last August, he suggested a diet alteration for the world's wealthiest.



A switch from red meat to legumes and nuts could reduce food-based emissions by 17 percent, even if inhabitants of poorer nations increase their meat consumption.



Another of his <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0301479724024307?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recent studies</a> explores the livestock sector - which dangerously exceeds several planetary boundaries. This paper suggests that countermeasures should be “region-specific,” recognizing cultural and regional disparities.



For instance, a plant-based diet could be ineffective for traditional Mongolian nomads, whose livelihood depends on yaks and their milk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aligning-earth-s-policies-with-lifestyles">Aligning Earth’s policies with lifestyles</h2>



"We shouldn’t focus so much on creating new technical solutions, as there are already so many solutions which we don’t implement," said Hubacek.&nbsp;



Sometimes our policies paradoxically stimulate harmful behavior. For instance, our fossil fuel subsidies globally eclipse the mitigation effect achieved through carbon pricing strategies. 



Other policies can be inconsistent, such as promoting the use of heat pumps and then subsequently raising electricity prices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-towards-a-sustainable-future">Towards a sustainable future</h2>



While individual sustainable efforts are important, tackling this challenge requires cooperation among governments, corporations, and international organizations. 



Policies supporting green industries, renewable energy investments, and public awareness form a vital multi-faceted approach. A global framework, similar to the Paris Accord, could help manage these transitions. 



Establishing a unified, transparent system for tracking consumption and emissions could accelerate progress. Both developed and developing nations must collaborate and share knowledge to address environmental issues at local and global levels effectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-economic-models">Rethinking economic models</h2>



A deeper transformation calls for rethinking traditional economic models that favor relentless growth over ecological balance. This shift involves adopting circular economy principles, where recycling, Earth's resource efficiency, and sustainable lifestyle management become standard.



Unlike the "take-make-waste" model, a circular approach reduces waste and energy use. This change requires policy reforms, innovation, and active participation from key economic sectors. 



It’s about fundamentally reshaping economies to align with the planet’s ecological limits. By embedding sustainable practices into economic policies, nations can secure a healthier future that values ecological stability alongside prosperity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hope-is-not-lost">Hope is not lost</h2>



Hubacek's message is clear: all hope is not lost. Humanity can indeed remain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-life-and-environment-co-evolved-over-500-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">within the planetary boundaries</a>. However, one obstacle remains - our political willingness to tackle climate change.



Hubacek's work, driven by academic interest rather than activism, emphatically calls for an evidence-based approach to policy. 



Ultimately, at the heart of planetary sustainability lies the collective action of us humans– all eight billion of us.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08154-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Human lifestyles are stressing Earth’s natural boundaries

Do you ever stop to wonder how much our lifestyle...

Imagine a world where continents are fused into one massive landmass, and life as we know it is on the brink of transformation. That's precisely what happened 233 million years ago during one million year period of rain called the Carnian Pluvial Episode (CPE).



An international team of scientists has found evidence of this significant extinction event, which appears to have paved the way for dinosaurs to become the dominant creatures on Earth.



Involved in this important research are Dr. Jacopo Dal Corso from the <a href="https://en.cug.edu.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">China University of Geosciences</a> at Wuhan and Professor Mike Benton from the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>. 



Their collaborative efforts have pieced together a pivotal moment in our planet's history that reshaped life both on land and in the oceans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carnian-pluvial-episode">Carnian Pluvial Episode</h2>



Back in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-dinosaurs-benefited-from-changes-in-global-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Late Triassic period</a>, all the continents were joined together in a supercontinent known as Pangea, surrounded by the vast Panthalassa Ocean. The interior of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/supercontinents-101-pannotia-gondwana-and-pangea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pangea</a> was mostly dry and arid, with rainfall occurring mainly near the coastal regions. 



This dry spell took a dramatic turn when a layer of dark gray rock was discovered in Austria's Northern Limestone Alps in the 1970s by geologists Schlager and Schollnberger. 



This layer indicated wet conditions sandwiched between arid periods, suggesting a global climate event -- the Carnian Pluvial Episode.



So, what caused this sudden shift to a wetter climate? The main culprit appears to be massive volcanic eruptions in the Wrangellia Province, an area that now includes parts of Alaska and British Columbia. 



These eruptions released enormous amounts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jurassic-rocks-reveal-new-details-about-earths-climate-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a> into the atmosphere. 



"The eruptions peaked in the Carnian," notes Dr. Jacopo Dal Corso. "They were so huge, they pumped vast amounts of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, leading to spikes of global warming."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mass-extinction-and-new-beginnings">Mass extinction and new beginnings</h2>



The surge in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/report-earth-is-headed-for-an-irreversible-climate-disaster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gases</a> caused global temperatures to rise by about 5 to 7 degrees Fahrenheit, amplifying evaporation from the seas and triggering increased rainfall worldwide. 



This climate chaos led to significant biodiversity loss. Many species couldn't adapt to the rapid environmental changes, resulting in a mass extinction event. But nature abhors a vacuum. 



As some species disappeared, new ones emerged to fill the gaps, leading to ecosystems that began to resemble those we see today.



"The new floras probably provided slim pickings for the surviving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-with-high-body-temperatures-often-become-herbivores/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">herbivorous reptiles</a>," says Professor Mike Benton. 



"We now know that dinosaurs originated some 20 million years before this event, but they remained quite rare and unimportant until the Carnian Pluvial Episode hit. It was the sudden arid conditions after the humid episode that gave dinosaurs their chance."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dinosaurs-emerge-from-the-carnian-pluvial">Dinosaurs emerge from the Carnian Pluvial</h2>



As the climate shifted back to drier conditions, dinosaurs seized the opportunity to thrive. This period also saw the rise of the first turtles, crocodiles, lizards, and even the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/incredible-discovery-some-mammals-attacked-dinosaurs-and-they-often-won-the-battle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earliest mammals</a>. 



The expansion of conifer forests created new habitats, and these emerging animal groups diversified life on land in remarkable ways.



The oceans weren't spared from the upheaval. The Carnian Pluvial Episode marks the beginning of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-save-coral-reefs-with-selective-breeding/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">modern coral reefs</a> and the appearance of many groups of plankton. 



These changes indicate significant shifts in ocean chemistry and the carbonate cycle, affecting the entire marine food chain and leading to new forms of marine life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recognizing-a-sixth-mass-extinction">Recognizing a sixth mass extinction</h2>



Until now, scientists had identified five <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-was-the-cause-of-earths-largest-mass-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">major mass extinctions</a> over the past half-billion years. These events dramatically reshaped life's trajectory on Earth. 



"So far, paleontologists had identified five 'big' mass extinctions in the past 500 million years of the history of life," says Dr. Dal Corso. 



"We have identified another great extinction event, and it evidently had a major role in helping to reset life on land and in the oceans, marking the origins of modern ecosystems."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-this-carnian-pluvial">Lessons from this Carnian Pluvial</h2>



The Carnian Pluvial Episode offers valuable insights into how massive volcanic eruptions and the resulting climate shifts can have far-reaching consequences. 



The release of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide led to global warming, increased rainfall, and environmental upheaval. 



In our current era, human activities are raising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2023-climate-change-report-record-high-temperatures-greenhouse-gases-sea-level-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas levels</a>, leading to climate change. Studying events like the CPE can help us understand how ecosystems respond to rapid environmental changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-volcanic-events">Massive volcanic events</h2>



Dr. Dal Corso emphasizes the scale of these ancient volcanic events, saying, "The eruptions were so huge, they pumped vast amounts of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, and there were spikes of global warming." 



His observations highlight how natural events can dramatically alter our planet's climate.



"I had noted a floral switch and ecological catastrophe among the herbivores back in 1983 when I completed my PhD," Professor Benton notes.



His decades of work illustrate how scientific understanding evolves, building on clues from various fields to piece together Earth's complex history.



Learning about events from millions of years ago requires collaboration across multiple scientific disciplines, including geology, paleontology, and climate science. 



Discoveries like the Carnian Pluvial Episode showcase the importance of interdisciplinary research in deepening our understanding of Earth's past.



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



As we face our own environmental challenges today, looking back at events like the Carnian Pluvial Episode can inform our actions. 



If natural volcanic activity could cause such drastic changes, it raises questions about the impact of human-induced climate change. 



How might life on Earth adapt -- or struggle to adapt -- in the face of current environmental shifts?



The story of the Carnian Pluvial Episode demonstrates Earth's resilience and ability to recover and evolve after catastrophic events. 



A period of massive volcanic eruptions and climate upheaval set the stage for the rise of dinosaurs and the formation of ecosystems that continue to influence life today. 



As we continue to explore our planet's history, each discovery offers a new perspective on the resilience and adaptability of life on Earth.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.2109895118" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PNAS</a>.



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One million straight years of rain triggered the dinosaur takeover of Earth

Imagine a world where continents are fused into one massive...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Puglia, a coastal region in southern Italy. Puglia forms the heel of Italy’s "boot," and has the longest coastline of any Italian mainland region.



"Covering almost 20,000 sq km, it is Italy’s seventh largest region and its coastline, dotted with some of Italy’s finest sandy beaches and azure seas, runs for around 800 km," reports ESA. "With a population of around four million, Puglia borders the Adriatic Sea to the east and the Ionian Sea to the west."



"Puglia is the least mountainous region of Italy, consisting of broad plains and low-lying hills. It is home to two national parks, the Alta Murgia National Park and Gargano National Park. The area is one of the largest and most productive plains in Italy where a significant amount of both wine and olive oil is produced."



Puglia, which is also called Apulia, is known for its vibrant culture. The region provides around 40 percent of Italy’s olive oil, and is the birthplace of many unique Italian foods.&nbsp;



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

The coastal region of Puglia in southern Italy

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Seal,On,Ice,Floe,In,Antarctica

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov/">National Science Foundation</a> describes the sacrifices made by Weddell seal moms for their offspring. A recent study led by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution revealed that Weddell seals give so much iron to their pups during lactation that they dramatically limit the energy they have left over for diving and foraging.&nbsp;



“Offload of large amounts of iron hinders female Weddell seals’ ability to maintain their own endogenous heme (hemoglobin and myoglobin) stores, and post-partum females have shorter dive durations following weaning than skip-breeders,” wrote the study authors. “High iron demand during lactation ultimately impacts dive capacity as a cost of reproduction in marine mammals.”



Study lead author Michelle Shero explained that seals have much greater iron loads than terrestrial mammals because the seals need those proteins to carry oxygen in their bodies.



“That basically acts as a sort of internal scuba tank for those animals that allows them to dive for so long,” said Shero. “The females are essentially transferring their dive capacities to the pups when they nurse, through this transfer of iron. No one has looked at that before.”



The experts determined that a female seal transfers 309 to 614 milligrams of iron per day to her pup. “This is an exceptional rate of transfer relative to terrestrial mammals,” wrote the researchers.



Weddell seals are incredible divers. They routinely dive and hunt for food underwater for 20 minutes at a time. The longest recorded dive by a Weddell seal was 96 minutes. When the mothers are lactating, however, they are giving up the hemoprotein levels they need to carry oxygen for long dives.



Video Credit: National Science Foundation&nbsp;



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



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Weddell seals sacrifice large amounts of energy for their pups

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Lake Nasser, a vast reservoir located in southern Egypt and northern Sudan. Nasser is one of the largest artificial lakes in the world.



"The lake was created as a result of the construction of the Aswan High Dam across the waters of the Nile in the late-1960s. This ambitious project was designed to provide irrigation to new agricultural developments and attract people to the region," reports ESA.



"The dam impounds floodwaters from the Nile, releasing them when needed to maximise their utility on irrigated land, to water hundreds of thousands of hectares of land downstream, but also in the nearby area. The dam also helps improve navigation through Aswān and generates an enormous amount of hydroelectric power."



The Toshka Lakes are natural depressions that are filled by overflow from Lake Nasser. They were created in the 1980s and 1990s by the diversion of water from Lake Nasser through a man made canal.



"The rise and fall of the lakes depend on multi-year fluctuations in water flow from the Nile," explains ESA. "From 2012 to 2018, the lakes had shrunk significantly, leaving only small remnants of water in the basins."&nbsp;



"Summer rainfall in Sudan in 2019 and record-breaking floods in 2020, resulted in the rapid filling of the lake’s waters. The lakes are relatively salty, with visible signs of eutrophication and algae formation."



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

Lake Nasser in southern Egypt

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes why herbicides are not as effective in killing weeds anymore. In the 20th century, chemical companies developed thousands of herbicides. The most commonly used herbicide was glyphosate, which was introduced in 1974.



Over the past few decades, dozens of species of weeds have evolved resistance to glyphosate. Depending on the site of action, the part of the plant that an herbicide interacts with, weeds may even be resistant to herbicides that have not been developed yet.&nbsp;



With increasing resistance to glyphosate and other herbicides, weeds are - once again - becoming a major concern for farmers.&nbsp;



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Weeds are becoming increasingly resistant to herbicides

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/">NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a> (JPL) describes a dust storm on Mars that was nearly twice the size of the United States. As the storm covered the southern hemisphere of the planet, some of NASA’s explorers had to delay their normal activities.



NASA’s Insight lander put itself in a "safe mode" for 11 days to conserve battery power because solar power was disrupted by the dust. The Ingenuity Mars Helicopter postponed flights until conditions improved.



"A fleet of NASA orbiters monitor Martian dust storms like this one and serve as lifelines to Earth by relaying data from the rovers and lander on the ground back to the team. This includes the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, MAVEN, and Odyssey," reports JPL.



"Dust storms like this recent one start close to the ground and are spread by wind as they rise – warming the cold Martian atmosphere."



The images in the video were captured by NASA’s Curiosity as the dust rolled in. A fleet of orbiters monitored the dust storm from above, relaying data from Mars’ explorers back to scientists on Earth.



Video &amp; Image Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU/MSSS



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



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

NASA monitors giant dust storms on Mars

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="http://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz. This strait provides the only sea passage from the Persian Gulf to the open ocean.



Qeshm is separated from the Iranian coast by the Clarence Strait, also known as Khuran.&nbsp;The Hara Forest Protected Area is a network of shallow waterways and forest located between the island and the mainland. This protected region is home to sea turtles, snakes, and more than 150 species of migrating birds.



Qeshm is famous for its wide range of&nbsp;ecotourist&nbsp;attractions, such as the&nbsp;Hara marine forests. According to environmentalists, about 1.5 percent of the world birds and 25 percent of Iran's native <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/female-hummingbirds-avoid-sexual-harassment-by-looking-like-males/">birds</a> annually migrate to the forests, which are the first national geo park in Iran.



Tourists are also drawn to the island to see an age-old Portuguese&nbsp;fort, historic mosques, the&nbsp;Seyyed Mozaffar&nbsp;and&nbsp;Bibi Maryam&nbsp;shrines, and the "Valley of Stars."



The average temperature on the island is 81 degress and the region is often hot and humid. From June to August, the island is described as being oppressively hot. The ideal time to visit is during the winter season. 



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> (ACS) describes how the graphite used in lead pencils could ultimately revolutionize the future of electronics, medicine, and even space travel.&nbsp;



Graphite is a crystalline form of the element carbon which consists of stacked layers of graphene. It is also one of the best conductors in the world because electrons can zip through graphene sheets faster than any other known material.&nbsp;



In the future, scientists hope to use graphene for renewable energy in batteries, fuel cells and other energy storage methods.



Graphene could also be useful in various biomedical applications, such as sensors that could be placed under the skin to track heart rate or blood sugar.



"The chemistry world has been excited about the possibility of buckyballs, graphene and carbon nanotubes for decades," says ACS. "But the science has taken a long time to catch up to the hype. So where are we now, and how far away are we from a carbon-powered jetpack future?"



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

Pencils may hold the key to future electronics

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Inhambane Bay in southeast Mozambique.&nbsp;



"Inhambane Bay is a deep inlet into which the small Mutamba River flows," says ESA. "On one side of the bay lies the historical city of Inhambane, capital of the Inhambane Province, while the sister city of Maxixe, the economic capital of Inhambane, sits across from it. The province is the second largest grower of cashews, after Nampula, and it also produces coconut and citrus fruits."



The beaches of Barra and Tofo are popular with tourists. There are also coral reefs along the long coastline of Inhambane, making it an ideal destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.



"Mozambique’s extensive coastline heightens the country’s vulnerability to tropical cyclones that develop in the Indian Ocean as well as storm surge flooding," says ESA.



"More than half of the population lives in low lying coastal areas, putting communities at risk. Inhambane Bay was dangerously close to where Cyclone Idai made landfall in 2019 causing widespread destruction to the country."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Inhambane Bay in southeast Mozambique

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features San Francisco Bay in California. The shallow estuary is surrounded by an extensive metropolitan area that includes major cities like San Francisco and Oakland. In the image, green forests and parks are easy to distinguish from urban areas.



The Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta appears brown from sediment as it flows into San Pablo Bay. In the bottom right portion of the photo, salt ponds in the Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge appear bright green and yellow.&nbsp;



The Golden Gate Bridge is visible crossing the opening of the bay into the Pacific Ocean between Marin County and San Francisco. The bay was searchable as far south as San Jose until the 1850s, when hydraulic mining released large amounts of sediment from the rivers that settled in those parts of the bay that had little or no current.&nbsp;



Later on, the wetlands and inlets were deliberately filled in, reducing the Bay’s size since the mid-19th century by as much as one third. Recently, large areas of wetlands have been restored, further confusing the issue of the Bay’s size.



Despite its value as a waterway and harbor, many thousands of acres of marshy wetlands at the edges of the bay were, for many years, considered wasted space. As a result, soil excavated for building projects or dredged from channels was often dumped onto the wetlands and other parts of the bay as landfill.



Treasure, Angel and Alcatraz islands can also be seen in the photo, along with several bridges connecting the eastern and western shores of San Francisco Bay.



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

San Francisco Bay in western California

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the Gulf of Morbihan, a natural harbor with numerous islands and islets in northwest France. 



In this region, Brittany is an important cultural center that is divided into four departments: Ille-et-Vilaine, Côtes d'Armor, Finistère, and Morbihan.



According to ESA, Brittany is known for its rich and varied agriculture including meats and dairy products and a variety of high quality fruit and vegetables.&nbsp;&nbsp;



The Gulf of Morbihan opens onto the Bay of Quiberon by a narrow passage between Locmariaquer and Port-Navalo.



Morbihan is known for its Alignements de Carnac, which consists of around 3,000 standing stones and megalithic tombs. The stones were erected during the Neolithic period, around 4500 BC.&nbsp;&nbsp; 



The towns and villages around the edges of the Morbihan Gulf are a popular destination with visitors and the bay itself contains numerous small islands, some of which can be visited, and is a haven for wildlife, especially birds. 



The most important towns around the coast of the Morbihan Gulf are Vannes to the north-east and Auray to the north-west. The Morbihan Gulf is an area of sea that extends 20 kilometres inland from the Bay of Quiberon.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The Gulf of Morbihan in northwest France

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes the importance of monitoring the shape of the sea surface, which is constantly changing. These observations have many applications, such as ship routing, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-modem-ocean-is-a-tough-place-for-whales-to-survive/">ocean</a> current forecasting, and debris tracking.



"A project supported by the Discovery element of ESA’s Basic Activities recently investigated a new technique to measure sea surface topography very precisely," reports ESA.



"The technique involves looking at satellite navigation (GNSS) signals that have been reflected off of the sea surface at very low angles. At these so-called grazing angles, waves and surface roughness have very little impact on the reflection process; the sea surface acts as a very smooth mirror."



Estel Cardellach is the principal investigator at the Institute for Space Studies of Catalonia, who first submitted the idea for the project.



“In a mirror-like reflection the phase of the signal can be tracked – it is continuous," said Cardellach. "Different surface heights result in different phase measurements. It gives a very precise measurement of the surface altitude at a few centimetres’ precision.”



The researchers developed a GNSS receiver and set up an experiment in the Balaeric Islands to collect signals from the receiver that were reflected off the sea surface. Ultimately, these signals will provide improved measurements of the shape of the sea surface.



Image/ Video Credit: ESA



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

Monitoring the dynamic shape of the sea surface

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Aerial,Photo,Of,River,In,Amazon,Rainforest,Jungle,In,Peru

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center</a> describes how scientists are using autonomous sound sensors to monitor deforestation in the Amazon. By recording soundscapes, the experts can determine which animals are present through their distinct sounds.&nbsp;



Using this method, sounds can be used as scientific measurements to analyze the effects of deforestation. The researchers will gain a better understanding of how the acoustics of a forest can be used to measure its health.&nbsp;



"From space, parts of the Amazon rainforest that have previously been logged or burned may look lush and green, like a place buzzing with activity and full of sounds. But inside the rainforest, the animal life may tell a different story, of a harsh environment and a quieter soundscape," says NASA.



Video Credit: NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center&nbsp;



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

Monitoring deforestation in the Amazon through sounds

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