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Updated: 11 min 44 sec ago

Worms turn human waste into compost, but parasitic eggs can survive the process

1 hour 55 min ago
Research indicates that tiger worms did not decompose Ascaris eggs present in faecal waste during lab trials. The eggs remained intact and capable of survival following prolonged exposure to the worms. A majority of the eggs were discovered within the coir layer of the biodigesters. As a result, the produced vermicompost and effluent must not be deemed safe for farming, necessitating additional testing for products from tiger worm toilets.

Scientists fooled 11 bat species with fake water covered in clear plastic

2 hours 25 min ago
Bats often confuse smooth artificial surfaces for water through their echolocation abilities. Researchers discovered that multiple bat species, including those still inexperienced with water, persistently tried to drink from these misleading surfaces. This intriguing behavior underscores the significant role of echolocation in shaping bats' environmental perceptions and suggests that artificial surfaces can emit deceptive acoustic cues that alter their natural behaviour.

In 1967, Nasa flew flour beetle pupae into space; wing abnormalities rose from 29.9% to 44.8%

10 hours 55 min ago
Nasa's Biosatellite II experiment studied flour beetle pupae in space. Radiation exposure significantly increased wing abnormalities in these insects. Ground control beetles showed fewer developmental issues compared to flight samples. The mission also noted a longer pupal period for flight samples. This difference was attributed to temperature changes, not weightlessness itself.

After Brecksville Dam was removed, free-flowing habitat linked to Lake Erie more than doubled to 71 km

06/09/2026
A restored Lake Erie wetland saw millions of aquatic animals after reconnection to waterways. High-resolution sonar tracked over 3.4 million fish movements into and out of the marsh. Fish utilized the habitat throughout the day and night, showing continuous usage patterns. This research provides clear evidence of how aquatic species use restored coastal habitats. The findings inform management decisions for Great Lakes coastal wetland restoration efforts.

After a 25-acre Lake Erie wetland was reconnected, sonar recorded 3.44 million fish detections

06/09/2026
A rejuvenated wetland at Lake Erie witnessed an influx of aquatic wildlife thanks to its reconnection. High-resolution sonar has captured a staggering 3.4 million fish movements entering and exiting this newly transformed habitat. This research reveals valuable insights into how aquatic species engage with restored coastal ecosystems, as fish showcased varied activity throughout both day and night, influencing management strategies for restoring Great Lakes wetlands.

Scientists exposed a Wisconsin forest to extra CO₂ for 11 years; productivity rose 39%, but ozone cut gains

06/09/2026
A Wisconsin experiment studied forest communities exposed to high carbon dioxide and ozone. Elevated carbon dioxide significantly increased forest productivity and carbon storage over eleven years. Conversely, increased ozone levels reduced forest productivity and ecosystem carbon content. The combined effects showed carbon dioxide stimulating growth and ozone limiting it. These findings highlight forests' complex responses to atmospheric changes.

In 2013, Czech researchers found 70 dogs aligned north-south when Earth’s field was stable

05/09/2026
A 2013 study revealed dogs align north-south while defecating. This alignment occurred when Earth's magnetic field remained relatively stable. Changes in magnetic declination strongly influenced dog orientation during excretion. Researchers observed similar patterns in dogs while they were urinating. The study provided evidence of magnetic sensitivity in canine species.

Michigan scientist buried seeds in 1879; some still grew 142 years later in an experiment lasting to 2100

05/09/2026
In a remarkable exploration of seed dormancy, William James Beal's 1879 experiment revealed astonishing results when researchers discovered viable seeds in 2021, 142 years later. This included a surprising hybrid moth mullein detected through DNA analysis, enriching the study's findings. Insights gained will enhance land restoration efforts and help control invasive species for a sustainable future, demonstrating the enduring legacy of scientific inquiry.

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