Articles for tag: animals

A cute baby Barbary macaque sits happily on its mother's back outdoors.

Can Studying Animal Longevity Teach Us About Aging

Annette Uy

Have you ever wondered why some animals live dramatically longer than others? From the astonishingly long-lived tortoises to ephemeral insects that may survive only a day, nature showcases a remarkable variety of lifespan strategies. Understanding animal longevity not only fascinates scientists but also holds potential keys to unraveling the mysteries of human aging. By studying ...

monkey animal in space

How Animals Are Helping Us Understand the Effects of Space on Living Organisms

Annette Uy

The exploration of space has relied on animals to pioneer the path for human space travel. From humble fruit flies to rodents and primates, these creatures have been sent into space to help scientists study the effects of zero gravity, cosmic radiation, and extreme isolation on biological systems. The knowledge gained from these experiments has ...

A Showy male monarch butterfly.

8 Animal-Plant Relationships That Define Symbiosis

Anna Lee

Symbiosis is a fascinating aspect of ecology where different species live together, often with mutual benefits. There are various forms of symbiotic relationships, with mutualism being one of the most beneficial for the involved species. This article focuses on animal-plant relationships that define symbiosis, showcasing eight remarkable pairings where both partners benefit from the relationship. ...

Bison in the autumn forest.

10 Stories of Local Communities Protecting Wildlife

Anna Lee

In the depths of the Amazon rainforest, the Yawanawá community is leading efforts to protect its sacred lands and its diverse wildlife. By combining traditional knowledge with modern conservation techniques, they have established a sanctuary for species like jaguars and macaws. Their strategy involves using advanced monitoring systems and community patrols that curb illegal hunting ...

Moth Opodiphthera helena

10 Animals That Evolved in Unbelievable Ways

Anna Lee

Evolution is a fascinating process that has sculpted the myriad forms of life we see on Earth today. While some evolutionary changes are subtle, others have led to the astonishing adaptations that leave us in awe. This article explores ten animals that have evolved in jaw-dropping ways, revealing how life can adapt to even the ...

Grey pigeon on the ground.

8 Surprising Animal Traits Scientists Have Recently Uncovered

Jan Otte

Animals have always fascinated scientists with their diverse abilities and behaviors. Recent research has uncovered some surprising traits that challenge our previous understanding and reveal the incredible diversity of life on Earth. From astonishing communication techniques to impressive survival strategies, these findings offer a glimpse into the complex world of animal biology and behavior. Beyond ...

How Iguanas Crossed the Pacific to Fiji: A Tale of Survival and Evolution

April Joy Jovita

The presence of iguanas in Fiji has puzzled scientists for years. Unlike other Pacific islands, Fiji is home to two unique species of iguanas—the Fiji-banded iguana (Brachylophus fasciatus) and the Fiji-crested iguana (Brachylophus vitiensis). But how did these reptiles, native to the Americas, make their way across the vast Pacific Ocean? The answer lies in ...

great white shark

The Silent Hunters No More: Scientists Discover That Sharks Can Produce Sounds

April Joy Jovita

For years, scientists believed that sharks were among the few silent hunters of the ocean. Unlike whales and dolphins, sharks lacked vocal structures, leading researchers to conclude that they were incapable of sound production. However, a groundbreaking accidental discovery challenged this long-standing assumption, revealing that some shark species can, in fact, produce noises. A Surprising ...

The bonobo Kanzi

Kanzi the Bonobo: The Ape Who Revolutionized Our Understanding of Animal Intelligence

April Joy Jovita

Kanzi, a world-famous bonobo who astonished researchers with his linguistic and tool-making abilities, has passed away at the age of 44. His groundbreaking achievements challenged long-held beliefs about animal cognition and language, forever changing the way scientists view primate intelligence. A Remarkable Journey Kanzi’s journey into the scientific spotlight began at the Great Ape Trust ...