Science Alert
Catch up on the latest science news, from space and technology to life and environmental research- all the discoveries shaping our world today.
Updated: 34 min 29 sec ago
Belize Reef Restoration Effort: Lisa Carne revives storm-hit corals; project outplants 100,000 fragments
In 2001, Hurricane Iris wreaked havoc on Belize's coral reefs, sparking an innovative restoration effort. Marine biologist Lisa Carne took the lead in replanting coral fragments, which were often neglected. Through her organization, Fragments of Hope, more than 100,000 corals have been successfully restored, resulting in a remarkable boost in coral coverage and marine biodiversity.
Snake grows a fake spider on its tail to lure birds; scans reveal surprisingly normal bones inside
Researchers utilized XCT scanning technology to investigate the unique tail of a viper. The imaging uncovered the presence of standard viper vertebrae within the tail's unusual form. This finding underscores the discrepancies that can exist between external appearance and internal skeletal makeup. Fossilized remains alone may not capture the true look of an organism, while museum specimens remain crucial for advancing our understanding through innovative methods.
South China Sea methane leak formed a 1km plume; worms and bacteria built a ‘worm bed’ in 2 years
A South China Sea drilling incident caused a significant methane leak in 2018. Ocean scientists observed an ecosystem rapidly responding to the underwater gas release. Bacteria and worms quickly formed a methane-munching 'worm bed' within two years. This new biofilter degraded methane effectively, reducing plume height significantly. However, this rapid ecosystem development caused a notable decrease in original microbial diversity.
In 1982, Israel released 28 wild donkeys; 44 years later, they created a desert oasis
In an effort to rejuvenate the parched landscape of Israel's Ramon Crater, wild donkeys were brought back into the ecosystem. These resilient animals played a crucial role by creating waterholes, which became essential for desert wildlife. Additionally, their droppings helped spread acacia seeds, promoting the growth of trees. Their natural movements resulted in water-retaining depressions, significantly transforming the area's ecology into a thriving environment that has caught global attention.
Dam Removal Restores Creek: Buckhorn Creek flows freely again; volunteers plant trees
After more than a century, the Buckhorn Creek dam has been dismantled, reviving its original flow for the first time in 125 years. A modern ninety-foot bridge now crosses the creek, enhancing access for trail enthusiasts. This ecological restoration significantly improves aquatic habitats, particularly supporting brook trout populations. Additionally, volunteers will introduce native plants along the banks to help stabilize the soil.
Meet Vivian Liu, the 17-year-old who turned origami into a kindness movement across 50 nations
Vivian Liu has turned origami into a powerful global movement for kindness. Thousands of passionate young volunteers are making beautiful paper art to support those facing hardships. With more than 300 chapters in 50 countries, Origami For Good empowers youth with leadership skills and environmental consciousness, proving that even the smallest handcrafted items can create a profound and positive impact across the globe.
In 1989, Britain began reintroducing red kites after persecution left fewer than 10 breeding pairs
Once teetering on the brink of extinction, the red kite has staged a stunning comeback in Britain. Thanks to reintroduction efforts that began in 1989, with birds transported from Spain and Sweden, their population has surged astronomically—surpassing a 2,600 percent increase since 1995. These magnificent raptors are now found across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, although conservationists remain vigilant against potential threats to their continued survival.
Scientists found a way to turn egg and rice waste into a material that can store electricity
Researchers transformed egg and rice waste into a porous carbon material. This material, rich in nitrogen and oxygen, shows promise for energy storage. The developed carbon possesses a three-dimensional honeycomb structure with a high surface area. It demonstrated effective performance when tested in a supercapacitor device. This innovation offers a sustainable method for recycling food waste into functional materials.
Meet Yuvi Agarwal, the 12-year-old who plays music for shelter animals to help calm them
Yuvi Agarwal started Wild Tunes, a non-profit bringing musicians to animal shelters. This initiative aims to reduce stress and create positive human associations for pets. Volunteer musicians perform live music, helping animals feel more comfortable and relaxed. The program has expanded to multiple states, involving many volunteers. This effort improves adoption chances and builds musician confidence.
A 5,000-year-old skeleton had mysterious blue pigment; scientists seek its origin
Ancient Egyptian blue pigment's complex nature is revealed by scientific study. Researchers recreated the pigment to understand its variable color and composition. The blue's hue depended on cuprorivaite and other minerals present. Particle size and glass content also influenced the pigment's final appearance. These findings offer new insights into ancient Egyptian manufacturing and trade practices.
A Taylor Swift fan helped describe 12 new insect species; 4 species named after her music and life
A new genus of Australian insects has been named Swiftiephylus after singer Taylor Swift. Four new species within this genus also bear names inspired by her music. These pale yellow and cream-colored insects were collected between 1995 and 2004. Their discovery highlights the vast undocumented insect diversity remaining globally. This naming brings attention to insect conservation and scientific discovery.
