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: 23 min 25 sec ago
Taiwanese students turn oyster shells and coral waste into 3D-printed reef structures
Taiwanese students developed Reefvive, using oyster shells and coral gravel for 3D-printed reef bases. These structures provide a stable foundation for coral fragments to grow. Underwater trials showed a perfect survival rate for all attached coral fragments. Marine creatures quickly inhabited the new reef structures, demonstrating their effectiveness. The project aims to make coral restoration more accessible and scalable.
From tens of millions to 1,000: 140 years after vanishing, America’s bison return to the prairie
Bison are revered as America's national mammal, symbolizing rich cultural and ecological traditions for indigenous communities. Throughout the 1800s, rampant hunting and westward expansion caused their near extinction. However, through dedicated conservation initiatives, bison populations have rebounded. Native tribes and conservation groups are now working to restore bison to their historic habitats, enriching the Great Plains and celebrating their ancestral legacy.
Whale Post-Mortem Behaviour: Study details mother’s vigil; scientists urge further observations
Off the Gold Coast of Australia, researchers captured a remarkable sight: a mother humpback whale exhibiting attentive behavior towards her stillborn calf resting on the ocean floor. This poignant spectacle lasted for several hours and marks the inaugural scientific documentation of such a phenomenon among humpback whales, shedding light on the profound maternal connections and possible expressions of grief within these majestic creatures.
Meet Tilcayo: Tiny wild cat discovered in Bolivia's forests after more than a century
Scientists have identified a new wild cat species in Bolivia's cloud forests. This small, slender cat is known locally as Tilcayo and has been formally named. Genetic analysis revealed it is distinct from other known tiger cat species. Local communities have known about this cat for generations, passing down its name. Conservation efforts are needed as its population size remains unknown.
Why don't we remember being babies? The science behind it
We all experience infantile amnesia, meaning we can't remember our very first years. Although babies do create lasting memories, adults find it tough to recall them. The hippocampus and developing neural connections are crucial for these early memories. Brain development throughout childhood also influences how long these memories remain accessible.
Millions of vultures vanished after a cattle drug, followed by 500,000 human deaths
For generations, vultures were part of the everyday landscape, clearing livestock carcasses before they could linger. In the 1990s, diclofenac caused their numbers to collapse from around 50 million. Their disappearance was linked to rising stray dog numbers, water contamination and an estimated 500,000 additional human deaths between 2000 and 2005.
Eggshell powder replaced 10% of cement and strengthened mortar after 28 days
Researchers found waste eggshells can become a fine powder for mortar. This powder replaced cement, showing no reduction in compressive strength. The strongest results occurred when ten percent eggshell powder was used. Higher amounts increased porosity and weakened the mortar's internal structure. This study highlights a sustainable method for construction materials.
