Some plants have evolved a surprising strategy to attract pollinators—not with sweet fragrances, but with the stench of rotting flesh and dung. Researchers have discovered that certain flowering plants, including wild ginger (Asarum canadense), produce malodorous chemicals through gene mutations that mimic the scent of decaying organic matter. The Genetic Mechanism Behind the Stench Scientists ...
Despite covering 66% of Earth’s surface, the deep ocean remains largely unexplored. A new study reveals that humans have visually observed only 0.001% of the deep seafloor, an area roughly the size of Rhode Island. This lack of exploration leaves vast ecosystems, potential scientific discoveries, and unknown species hidden beneath the waves. How Scientists Measured ...
Honeyguides, small birds known for leading humans to beehives, have long been part of a mutualistic relationship with honey hunters. However, some reports suggest that these birds occasionally guide people to dangerous animals instead of bees. While local folklore attributes this behavior to revenge for insufficient rewards, scientists now believe it may be due to ...
A new study reveals that digger wasps possess an extraordinary ability to remember the locations of multiple nests and schedule feeding for their offspring with precision. Despite their small brains, these insects demonstrate complex memory skills, allowing them to track up to nine separate burrows at once. How Wasps Track Their Offspring Digger wasps create ...
Vultures are nature’s cleanup crew, rapidly consuming carcasses and preventing the spread of disease. Their decline, however, is disrupting ecosystems, slowing decomposition, and allowing bacteria and flies to flourish. Without these efficient scavengers, the balance of many environments is shifting, raising concerns about public health and ecological stability. How Vultures Accelerate Carcass Decomposition Vultures are ...
Therapy dogs are playing an important role in helping domestic abuse survivors rebuild trust and emotional stability. Studies show that these specially trained animals trust emotional stability. Studies show that these specially trained animals provide nonjudgmental support, reducing anxiety and fostering a sense of safety in counseling sessions, educational programs, and courtroom settings. How Therapy ...
New research reveals that chimpanzees drum rhythmically, using distinct patterns that vary between different groups. Scientists believe these drumming behaviors may provide insights into the evolutionary origins of human musicality, suggesting that rhythmic communication existed in a common ancestor of humans and chimpanzees. How Chimpanzees Use Drumming Chimpanzees produce low-frequency sounds by drumming on buttress ...
As avian flu outbreaks continue to spread, poultry farms across the U.S. are forced to rapidly cull infected flocks to prevent further transmission. However, a recent investigation reveals that the methods used to kill millions of birds are controversial, often inhumane, and driven by financial incentives rather than ethical considerations. How Bird Flu Culling Works ...
New research highlights how New York dairy farms are achieving lower greenhouse gas emissions through sustainable practices. By growing their own feed and optimizing manure management, these farmers are reducing their environmental footprint while maintaining high milk yields. How Farms Are Reducing Emissions A study analyzing 36 medium to large dairy farms found that their ...
Animal rights activists are protesting the Phoenix Zoo’s reported plans to euthanize Indu, a 59-year-old Asian elephant who has lived in isolation for years. Advocacy groups argue that Indu deserves a chance to retire in a sanctuary rather than face what they call an inhumane end. Indu’s Life in Captivity Indu was taken from the ...
