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: 1 hour 33 min ago
Fish Removal Reshapes River: Experiment slashed trout, lifted native chub; impact still unclear
Scientists removed invasive fish from the Colorado River to help native species. This four-year experiment significantly altered the river's fish population composition. Rainbow trout numbers dropped dramatically, while native fish showed some signs of recovery. However, other environmental factors complicated the assessment of the program's success. Ongoing efforts continue to protect the Grand Canyon's native fish populations.
‘Ghost’ green mamba rediscovered decades after its 1885 discovery in São Tomé
Researchers have made an exciting discovery of a long-lost 1885 green mamba specimen from São Tomé Island, previously thought to be missing. Found within a Polish museum's collection, this specimen enables scientists to revisit its taxonomic classification. With physical traits closely matching the western green mamba, this rediscovery ignites curiosity about the survival status of this snake on its native island.
AI may soon be able to pay for things through UPI without asking every single time
The potential introduction of AI agents in India for autonomous UPI payments marks a significant advancement in transaction technology. Users would enjoy the convenience of hands-free purchases while having the ability to establish preset instructions and budget limitations. Proposed safety measures, including identity checks and spending restrictions are currently under consideration, reflecting a wider global trend towards automated payment systems.
A fungus turns beetles into zombies and makes them die on flowers to infect the next generation
A fungus infects goldenrod soldier beetles, causing them to grip flowers before dying. After death, the fungus alters their bodies, raising wings between midnight and 7 am. These changes occur approximately fifteen to twenty-two hours after the beetles have expired. Infected beetles were found on frost aster and common boneset plants in Arkansas. Fungal outbreaks primarily occurred during autumn when adult beetles are present.
Scientists removed 285,000 fish from a Wisconsin lake to help walleye, but perch rose 788% instead
Scientists removed about 285,000 centrarchid fish from Wisconsin’s McDermott Lake between 2018 and 2021 to see if reducing competition and predation could help walleye recover. The experiment sharply reduced several fish species and saw yellow perch numbers rise by about 788%. However, researchers found no detectable natural walleye recruitment, showing that removing centrarchids alone did not restore the lake’s walleye population.
In 2025, scientists discovered a new "zombie" fungus in British caves that manipulates spiders
Scientists have identified a new fungus that controls spiders before killing them. This remarkable discovery was made in caves and old buildings across Ireland and Wales. The fungus, named Gibellula attenboroughii, forces spiders to exposed locations for spore dispersal. This behavior mirrors tropical "zombie ant" fungi, suggesting wider prevalence. Researchers confirmed the new species through genetic sequencing and fieldwork.
California could unlock $100M-$200M in annual water value by using better forecasts at 20 reservoirs
To boost water availability in California, advanced weather forecast models can play a crucial role. Implementing Forecast-Informed Reservoir Operations may yield an additional 315,000 acre-feet each year, providing substantial economic leverage for both farmers and city dwellers. This innovative approach improves flood management and opens up opportunities for environmental flow, all while promoting conservation and aiding in infrastructure advancements.
Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla unveils BHEEM concept for setting up habitat on other planets
Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has developed a concept for extraterrestrial habitats. This modular design, named BHEEM, aims to support future human presence on other worlds. BHEEM addresses challenges like radiation and extreme temperatures for astronauts. Its panel-based architecture allows for easier construction and maintenance in space. This innovative habitat concept paves the way for India's space exploration goals.
Tomato plants in space switched thousands of genes, Nasa study reveals
Spaceflight causes significant gene changes in tomato plants, which rely on light cues. Red-rich light stabilizes gene activity, while blue-rich light increases volatility. Plants grew unusual roots along stems as a stress response in orbit. This research offers insights into crop adaptation in challenging environments. Findings could inform future space missions and Earth-based agriculture.
Zombie fungus forces ants to bite leaves before killing them
A fungus transforms ants into real-life zombies, controlling their behavior for parasite reproduction. The infected ant moves randomly before falling from elevated vegetation to the ground. It then bites firmly into a leaf vein, locking its jaws in a death grip. This position allows the fungus to grow and release spores for infecting other ants. Other parasites also manipulate animal behavior to complete their life cycles.
Older than dinosaurs and Himalayas: Why Bengaluru’s 3-billion-year-old Lalbagh Rock is in the news
In Bengaluru, the historic Lalbagh Rock is under siege from a proposed tunnel road project that threatens its integrity. In a display of solidarity, protesters formed a human chain around the rock to advocate for its preservation. A contentious new law permits parkland usage for public utility projects, prompting the government to rethink this contentious legislation amid growing demands from citizens and leaders to halt the tunnel road ramps.
Scientists find Mars' southern interior is 200-400°C hotter than its northern half
Scientists discovered Mars' southern interior is much hotter than its northern half. This temperature difference makes the southern mantle noticeably softer than the north. Tidal tomography revealed this thermal anomaly beneath the planet's crustal dichotomy. The findings suggest pockets of mantle beneath the south could still hold trapped magma. This research offers a direct look into the planet's deep internal structure.
