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: 9 min 38 sec ago
Michigan commits $89 million to restore polluted Detroit and Kalamazoo rivers by 2040
Michigan's Reclaim the Rivers initiative is set to invest $89 million to tackle pollution in the Detroit and Kalamazoo rivers. This funding is dedicated to sediment removal, restoring habitats, and increasing public access for recreation. State officials envision a significant transformation by 2040, working to reverse years of industrial damage and improve water quality and ecological health across communities and the Great Lakes.
57 new deep-sea species discovered in Argentina’s Mar del Plata Canyon, including ‘Loki’ sea cucumber
In a groundbreaking deep-sea voyage off Argentina, scientists uncovered 57 brand new marine species alongside five previously unclassified genera. Using a remotely operated vehicle, they pulled samples from the Mar del Plata Submarine Canyon. Among these marine marvels was a unique and translucent sea cucumber whimsically dubbed Loki. A subsequent collaborative workshop was instrumental in accelerating the species identification process, highlighting the astonishing biodiversity of the South Atlantic's deep ecosystems.
Adult Homo erectus fossil confirms species appeared in Africa 2 million years ago
Researchers have described 18 previously unpublished hominin fossils from South Africa, including an adultHomo erectusfossil dated to 2 million years ago. The findings support the species’ first appearance in southern Africa at that time and provide evidence of microevolution inP. robustus.
RHS Rocket Science Experiment: ISS flight slows seed growth; Mars food plans still viable
In 2015, ESA astronaut Tim Peake carried rocket seeds to the International Space Station, launching a groundbreaking research project. Upon his return, 8,600 UK schools engaged in a citizen science experiment analyzing the seeds. The outcomes indicated that while the seeds' growth and aging were influenced by space conditions, they remained viable.
London sent 3 million tonnes of railway soil to rebuild Essex wetlands; bird numbers hit 39,000
More than three million tonnes of soil excavated for London’s Elizabeth line were transported to Wallasea Island in Essex to help create coastal wetlands. Ten years after seawalls were breached, the restored RSPB reserve has recorded a record 39,000 wintering birds, including thousands of Knot, Avocets, Grey Plovers and Bar-tailed Godwits.
Norway’s melting mountain ice reveals 48 prehistoric arrows, including one up to 6,000 years old
In a remarkable discovery, Norwegian archaeologists are uncovering ancient treasures as glaciers shrink, revealing 48 prehistoric arrows, including one dated between 5,000 and 6,000 years. This influx of artefacts signifies a shift in our understanding of prehistoric activities as ice melts in the region. The urgency of recovery efforts underscores the impending deterioration of these valuable pieces, highlighting the rapid loss of ice cover around the world.
After 50+ years of pulp-mill pollution, regulators propose restoring North Carolina's Roanoke River
A new restoration strategy has been proposed to address the environmental impacts of the Plymouth Mill in North Carolina. This plan highlights essential actions such as conserving wetlands and restoring natural habitats along the lower Roanoke River. A significant portion, 760 acres of wetlands, will be preserved through a conservation deed. The initiative plans to utilize about $1.
4,450 timber pieces restored 110 km of the Murray River, tripling Murray cod numbers
Researchers restored woody habitat along a 110-km section of Australia's Murray River by adding 4,450 timber structures. Over seven years, Murray cod numbers tripled and golden perch numbers doubled in the restored reach, with fish movement from connected source populations also contributing to the increase.
