Researchers analyzed radioisotopes in layers of fossilized volcanic ash. Decay of uranium to lead within tiny crystals enabled scientists to precisely pinpoint dates for certain events. They determined this event occurred 119.5 million years ago -- coincident with evidence for massive volcanic eruptions -- and lasted for 1.1 million years....
Shrubs can help or hinder a forest’s recovery after wildfire
When and where to plant tree seedlings to restore forests after wildfires has a lot to do with shrubs, finds a new study.
Corals depend on near neighbors to reproduce
A new study reveals corals must be within only a few meters of each other to successfully reproduce, leaving them vulnerable in a warming world.
Electric vehicle transition could create unwanted air pollution hotspots in China and India
New research has uncovered a potential unintended consequence of the electric vehicle transition in India and China, finding that sulfur dioxide emissions could actually increase over current levels if the countries were to fully onshore their electric vehicle supply chains. The overwhelming majority of those emissions would come from refining...
Detailed bedbug genome analysis may improve pesticides
Scientists now have a better genetic understanding of the insect. The research offers an updated genome analysis of the common bedbug Cimex lectularius, providing new insight for those working to prevent bedbug infestation, develop remediation strategies and track pesticide resistance.
Threat of abrupt mortality events keeps endangered monkey population at risk, despite decades of growth
Despite the population being almost four times larger than it was in 1982, a new study published in the journal Ecology suggests the northern muriqui monkeys remain at risk, especially in the face of ongoing habitat disturbances.
Making the most of Switzerland’s wood
Sustainable, renewable and good for the climate: Wood is the material of the future. But how much of it do we actually have and how do we make best use of it? Researchers have now analyzed the material flows of wood in Switzerland in detail -- and discovered untapped opportunities.
New study finds marine animals save energy by swimming in a depth ‘sweet spot’
Researchers have found that marine animals across mammals, birds and reptiles swim at similar relative depths when traveling and not feeding to save energy.
Across southeastern US, weedy rice steals herbicide resistance from crop rice
A new study shows that more than half of the weedy rice sampled in the rice-growing region of the southeastern U.S. has become herbicide resistant.
Unlocking the journey of gold through magmatic fluids
When one tectonic plate sinks beneath another, it generates magmas rich in volatiles such as water, sulphur and chlorine. As these magmas ascend, they release magmatic fluids, in which sulphur and chlorine bind to metals such as gold and copper, and transport these metals towards the surface of the Earth....