Researchers warn Antarctica is undergoing abrupt changes that could trigger global consequences. Melting ice, collapsing ice shelves, and disrupted ocean circulation threaten sea levels, ecosystems, and climate stability. Wildlife such as penguins and krill face growing extinction risks. Scientists stress that only rapid emission reductions can avert irreversible damage.
Spotted Lanternfly May Use ‘Toxic Shield’ to Fend off Bird Predators
Spotted lanternflies may season themselves to the distaste of potential bird predators, according to a new study led by entomologists in Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences.
The Chilling Effect of Air Pollution
Earth is reflecting less sunlight, and absorbing more heat, than it did several decades ago.
Ice Age Trees Helped Stabilize Earth’s Atmosphere by Suffocating
Ancient trees may have played a key role in regulating Earth’s climate during the last ice age — by breathing less efficiently.
A 480-million-year-old parasite still infects oysters today
Researchers discovered fossil evidence showing that spionid worms, parasites of modern oysters, were already infecting bivalves 480 million years ago. High-resolution scans revealed their distinctive question mark-shaped burrows. The finding highlights a parasitic behavior that has remained unchanged for nearly half a billion years.
Frozen for 6 million years, Antarctic ice rewrites Earth’s climate story
Scientists discovered 6-million-year-old ice in Antarctica, offering the oldest direct record of Earth’s ancient atmosphere and climate. The finding reveals a dramatic cooling trend and promises insights into greenhouse gas changes over millions of years.
Cockroaches are secretly poisoning indoor air
Cockroach infestations don’t just bring creepy crawlers, they fill homes with allergens and bacterial toxins that can trigger asthma and allergies. NC State researchers found that larger infestations meant higher toxin levels, especially from female roaches. When extermination eliminated the pests, both allergens and endotoxins plummeted. The findings highlight how...
As Ochre Sea Star ‘Baby Boomers’ Grow Up, Species Showing Signs of Recovery
The “baby boom” of ochre sea stars that followed a population crash a decade ago is enabling the species to recover on the Oregon Coast, according to new research by scientists at Oregon State University and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.
Sprayable RNA Pesticide Works Best When Potato Beetles are Small
The first sprayable insecticide made of RNA can target and kill ravenous Colorado potato beetles while sparing most beneficial insects, making it a promising environmentally friendly option.
UW-Led Study Links Wildfire Smoke to Increased Odds of Preterm Birth
About 10% of American babies are born prematurely. Birth before 37 weeks can lead to a cascade of health risks, both immediate and long-term, making prevention a vital tool for improving public health over generations.