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: 2 hours 43 min ago
Thousands of idle ships trapped near the Strait of Hormuz could become floating nurseries for invasive marine species
Ships lingering in the Persian Gulf could unintentionally facilitate the spread of harmful marine invaders worldwide. Extended anchorage allows marine organisms to thrive on the hulls, creating significant biofouling concerns that threaten global maritime commerce. These invasive species can inflict extensive ecological and economic harm on coastal areas. It is imperative for nations to join forces to address biofouling issues and prevent future outbreaks of invasion.
Orcas filmed tearing apart giant Sunfish with new hunting technique
Researchers have documented a previously unknown hunting behaviour in orcas in the Gulf of California. The animals were filmed working together to hold and ram giant sharp-tail sunfish until the carcass broke into thousands of pieces. Scientists believe the behaviour may help younger orcas feed more easily or could simply be play.
Climate change is driving beavers into Canada's Arctic, where they are reshaping the landscape
A new study has traced the northward expansion of North American beavers into Canada's Arctic by analysing shrub growth scars and satellite images. Researchers found evidence of colonisation beginning in 2008 and say the method can help track wildlife spread, landscape changes and the effects of climate change in remote Arctic regions.
Scientists claim Moon is drifting away from Earth at 3.8 centimetres a year. What will happen to the planet as it goes further?
The Moon is gradually distancing itself from Earth, which has significant implications for our planet. Over millions of years, this migration will result in extended daylight hours and the end of total solar eclipses. Furthermore, the weakened tides will disrupt coastal ecosystems and marine life. As the Moon ascends to a higher orbit, Earth's rotation continues to decelerate, marking a slow but profound transformation in our natural environment.
Scientists found a 2,865-pound predator from before dinosaurs ruled Earth
In an exciting collaboration, over 2,000 public volunteers are meticulously cleaning a colossal 1,300-kilogram fossilized skeleton of a Mastodonsaurus, an ancient amphibian that roamed the Earth 240 million years ago. Armed with specialized tools and ultraviolet light, these dedicated individuals are uncovering the mysteries of our planet's history. The spectacular skeleton is expected to be on display by October or November, showcasing humanity's connection to a distant past.
A tapeworm infects ants and makes them live several times longer by turning their bodies into...
In Germany, tiny ants exhibit extended lifespans thanks to a parasitic tapeworm that cleverly alters their genetics to mimic queen ant biology. As these infected workers become less active and quieter in their nests, the parasite enhances its chances of survival by manipulating the ants' regulatory networks. This fascinating research sheds light on the complexities of genetic control related to aging processes.
Invasive plants may be boosting mosquito numbers in lower-income areas
Recent studies indicate that invasive trees in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods of Baltimore and Washington D.C. are contributing to a rise in mosquito populations. The nonnative leaves serve as an excellent nourishment source for mosquito larvae, promoting faster growth and larger size, which ultimately enhances their ability to transmit diseases. This finding underscores the significance of plant quality over quantity in managing mosquito outbreaks.
24-million-year-old Kevda fossil leaves discovered in Assam reveal ancient tropical forests of India
Fossil leaves found in Assam push Kevda's history back twenty-four million years. These ancient plants survived dramatic climatic changes on the Indian subcontinent. The discovery bridges a significant gap in the Pandanaceae family's fossil record. India's tropical forests acted as a refuge for these ancient plant lineages. This finding offers insights into past biodiversity and environmental shifts.
Chimpanzees and bonobos hug before meals to avoid fights and distribute food fairly, scientists discover
Bonobos and chimpanzees use friendly physical contact to manage social stress before meals. New research shows both species use touch and sexual gestures for group harmony. These behaviours ensure fair access to limited food resources for all. This ancient trait suggests humans inherited conflict resolution through touch from a common ancestor.
Sequoias' survival hinges on fire management; researchers urge expanding controlled burns to protect forests
Giant sequoias faced unprecedented losses in recent wildfire seasons. A NASA-funded study shows controlled burns dramatically improve their survival chances. Mature trees in treated forests were four times less likely to die. This practice minimizes fuel and allows fires to burn with lower intensity. Expanding prescribed burning programs is crucial for preserving these ancient giants.
25,000-year-old cave discovery reveals ancient Australian rituals
In Cloggs Cave, archaeologists have discovered evidence of ancient GunaiKurnai grass burning rituals that spanned 25,000 years. The findings, which include microscopic plant remnants, ash layers, and a remarkable standing stone, shed light on the deep-rooted spiritual connection that these ancient communities fostered with nature. This enduring practice highlights the intricate relationship between the environment and their spiritual ceremonial activities.
In 1955, Hawaii released a cannibal snail to control another invasive snail, but the predator…
Hawaii introduced a predatory snail in 1955 to control pests, which then devastated native tree snails. Scientists now operate a snail emergency room to protect the remaining species. These colorful kāhuli snails were once abundant and culturally significant to Hawaiians. Captive breeding is slow, and efforts focus on predator-proof fences for reintroduction. Conservationists strive to prevent further extinctions, highlighting a global trend of human-induced endangerment.
A silent coral reef came back to life after scientists played recordings of healthy reefs underwater
128 new Saturn moons discovered: Scientists say they are fragments of ancient worlds
Saturn now holds the record for the most known moons after 128 new discoveries. These small irregular moons offer clues about Saturn's violent past and ancient collisions. Astronomers used the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope to detect these faint objects over several years. The findings suggest a major collision occurred within Saturn's moon system recently. This event likely created many of Saturn's numerous small irregular moons.
