Ecology
Antarctic robot reveals thousands of icefish nests in Weddell Sea
Scientists using a robotic explorer have discovered over a thousand organized fish nests beneath Antarctica's Weddell Sea, exposed after a massive iceberg calved in 2017. The nests, built by yellowfin noties, form geometric patterns on the seafloor and highlight a thriving ecosystem in extreme conditions. This finding underscores the need to protect the region as a marine sanctuary.
European institutions launch campaign for International Coccolithophore Day
Reported by AI
Five European research institutions have announced an initiative to establish October 10 as International Coccolithophore Day, highlighting the crucial role of these microscopic plankton in regulating Earth's climate. Coccolithophores, tiny algae smaller than dust grains, capture carbon dioxide, produce oxygen, and form geological records of climate history. The campaign aims to raise awareness of their impact on ocean ecosystems amid climate change threats.
Scientists uncover universal thermal performance curve for all life
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have discovered a universal thermal performance curve that governs how every living organism responds to temperature changes. This pattern, applicable from bacteria to fish, shows performance peaks at an optimal temperature before sharply declining, highlighting limits to adaptation in a warming world. The findings, published in PNAS, suggest evolution cannot escape this fundamental rule.
Hippos lived in ice age Germany until 31,000 years ago
New research reveals that hippos survived in central Europe much longer than previously believed, persisting in Germany's Upper Rhine Graben until about 31,000 years ago. Ancient DNA and radiocarbon dating show these animals coexisted with mammoths during a milder phase of the last ice age. The findings challenge earlier timelines of hippo extinction in the region.