African elephants can distinguish food availability visually when they are within 5 metres of potential food sources. Researchers tested elephants using canvases depicting different tree sizes and leaf densities to assess their choices. Findings suggest that these animals rely primarily on olfactory cues for food decisions beyond 5 metres. The study highlights the significance of both visual and olfactory information during foraging.

Scientists have identified a 165-million-year-old mammal predecessor from China that had a broad tail for swimming and throat bones similar to those of modern mammals. Named Megacauda sungei, the Jurassic-era animal could chew and swallow food using specialised structures. Published in Nature, the findings offer new insights into how early mammals developed different feeding abilities.

In a remarkable advancement, Stanford researchers have unveiled Orca-T therapy, which has recently received FDA approval. After two decades of rigorous development, this innovative treatment was administered to its inaugural commercial patient, a high-risk leukemia sufferer. Notably, Orca-T significantly minimizes the chances of graft-versus-host disease post-stem cell transplants, offering reduced chemotherapy requirements and lower side effects. Future studies are anticipated to investigate its relevance for broader patient demographics.

A groundbreaking study suggests that if we could eliminate aging mechanisms, humans could potentially live between 146 to 194 years. Researchers spotlight somatic mutations as key contributors to aging, delving into how various organs age differently. Neurons and heart muscle cells face unique challenges, while liver cells exhibit regenerative abilities. Although not a forecast for actual lifespans, this research investigates the theoretical boundaries of human longevity.

Over the last 36 years, North Carolina's coastal forests have seen a dramatic decrease in forest cover. The decline sped up after 2010 due to rising sea levels and increased salinity. The research revealed a troubling shift, with once green areas transforming into marshes, shrubs, or ghost forests. Moreover, extreme weather events have intensified the threat of saltwater intrusion, making these forests increasingly vulnerable.

Filip Lajciak has developed an innovative and cost-effective microscope capable of producing non-invasive 3D models of minute samples. By employing a stereo camera within the microscope, the device captures images from various angles and processes them into intricate point clouds and disparity maps. This cutting-edge technology holds great promise for the analysis of micro-particle structures and biological specimens. Lajciak's outstanding work was acknowledged at ISEF 2026, earning several prestigious awards.

A team of researchers from Florida Atlantic University discovered that wild blacktip sharks possess the ability to detect low-frequency sounds from considerable distances. This groundbreaking study sheds light on how these sharks navigate their aquatic environments, as they exhibited keen directional hearing by making sharp turns in response to sound sources.

Archaeologists investigating Turkey’s Mount Ararat have drilled the boat-shaped Durupinar formation for the first time, collecting hundreds of soil samples from depths of up to 60 feet. Researchers are examining organic matter and possible traces of ancient wood for clues linked to Noah’s Ark, but laboratory analysis is still needed before drawing conclusions.

Wētāpunga, the largest giant wētā species in New Zealand, is rebounding after years of decline caused by habitat destruction and invasive predators. Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, more than 11,000 wētāpunga have been bred and released into protected areas. With at least four generations now thriving in the wild, the program aims to sustain their growing populations and ensure their future survival.

Faya, originally brought to Hawaii for ornamental purposes, has established itself as an invasive species in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This tree disrupts the native ecosystem by altering soil pH and shading native plants. Birds play a crucial role in spreading Faya's berries, furthering its invasion. Control efforts include girdling the trees and applying herbicide to manage its spread.