California’s toxic yellow weed covered 2.34 million acres until beetles fought back

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California and Arizona turned old tyres into reefs and found 20 times more fish

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Meet Prakhar Purohit, who found a way to make tiny batteries from dirty water

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13-year-old turned his grandmother’s fall into a $25,000 invention

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Centuries-old plaque on eight people’s teeth preserved a surprisingly detailed menu of what they ate in Osaka

Dental plaque analysis revealed diverse diets for Edo-period Osaka commoners. Researchers found proteins from 17 food types, including luxury red sea bream. This suggests developing markets made once-exclusive foods accessible to ordinary people. Salmon proteins indicated food traveled long distances via extensive shipping networks. Even cottonseed oil and terrestrial animal meat were consumed by these individuals.

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A floating wind turbine off Spain became an underwater farm for four species

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How 3,000 giant tortoises are rebuilding Española after near extinction

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Northern spotted owl once became a symbol of America’s logging wars; now scientists say it is already functionally extinct

The northern spotted owl, once a revered icon of environmental activism, faces dire circumstances as it becomes functionally extinct in numerous regions. A recent study indicates a severe decline in its populations throughout their historical habitat. Factors such as habitat destruction and rampant wildfires have severely impacted the species over the years, while the encroaching barred owl emerges as a formidable threat.

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Chicago physicist’s 20-year-old quantum imaging theory gets experimental proof using superconductors

The University of Illinois Chicago’s Dirk Morr proposed a way to create high-resolution quantum images using superconductors two decades ago. A new experiment by researchers in Germany, supported by Morr’s theoretical model, has now produced quantum imaging similar to what he predicted, providing experimental confirmation of his earlier work.

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NASA tests GPS-free navigation using other satellites and space debris as landmarks

NASA has tested FALCON, a system that lets satellites navigate without GPS by using other spacecraft and orbital debris as reference points. During a three-day test, the system autonomously improved the known orbits of more than 200 space objects while also calculating the position of NASA’s Starling spacecraft.

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How a diamond hit at hypersonic speed can turn into graphite in microseconds

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Three forgotten kings may change the accepted timeline of ancient Assyria

Research indicates that ancient Assyrian king lists could have neglected to mention several ephemeral rulers. Evidence points to three monarchs who temporarily ascended the throne amid turbulent political times. Their short reigns might have been intentionally omitted from the official historical timeline, raising questions about the accuracy of Assyria's established chronology.

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Scientists spent 100 years discovering animals, reshaping where we see Earth’s biodiversity hotspots

A groundbreaking study has unveiled that taxonomic advancements have reshaped worldwide biodiversity maps over the last century. While reptile and amphibian diversity has markedly changed, bird and mammal distributions have remained mostly unchanged. Australia and Southeast Asia have been identified as key biodiversity hotspots for these groups. Moreover, factors influencing species richness are also shifting, with precipitation emerging as more crucial.

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The Dead Sea has been building a salt floor for years; scientists reveal how it happens

Scientists have uncovered a double diffusion process explaining Dead Sea salt accumulation. Warm, salty upper waters interact with cooler, less salty layers below. This creates salt fingers which carry salt downwards to the lakebed. Numerical simulations confirmed this asymmetric fingering mechanism drives salt deposition. This process explains the continuous thickening of the Dead Sea floor with salt.

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Scientists turn wood waste into foam that replaces plastic and decomposes in soil within months

Canada is piloting a new process to convert wood waste into biodegradable foam. This innovative material is designed to replace plastic foam packaging and construction insulation. The pilot plant in Vancouver currently produces a limited amount of this eco-friendly wood foam. Future plans include expanding production significantly within Indigenous territories and on Vancouver Island. This initiative aims to create jobs and foster economic opportunities for Indigenous communities.

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After 45 months of observation, capuchins increasingly hunted small animals when fruit became scarce

In Brazil, capuchin monkeys exhibit remarkable adaptability by hunting small animals when fruit supplies dwindle. This shift highlights their versatile omnivorous diet and responsiveness to environmental changes. Interestingly, adult males were observed hunting vertebrates more often than younger females. Furthermore, when alternative food sources were available, the monkeys relied less on hunting, presenting intriguing implications for understanding the dietary evolution of early human ancestors.

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In 2022, MIT researchers built a 4-inch cooler that kept food fresh without electricity

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MIT scientists watched electrons rebuild in a quantum material like ice crystals

Researchers at MIT have successfully captured two distinct recoveries of electron order in a quantum material. One phase emerged in a smooth fashion, while the other manifested in fragmented clusters. This work resolves ongoing discussions around the formation of specific electronic phases. Utilizing laser pulses, the team disrupted the material and studied its recovery, paving the way for innovative methods to explore competing quantum orders in real time.

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Yale researchers find a new way to make PFAS easier to remove and destroy

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In 2002, a NASA intern stole Moon rocks for love then his online deal became a trap

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In 1973, NASA sent fish and eggs into space to study life without gravity

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In 1929, Benjamin and Estella Loomis gave Lassen Volcanic National Park 40 acres, a museum and a...

In 1914, homesteader Benjamin Loomis captured the dramatic eruptions of Lassen Peak through his photography. Along with his wife, Estella, he later established a museum and seismograph station on their land. This rich historical site was formally donated to the United States in 1929 and is now recognized as the Loomis Museum, serving to inform and engage visitors about the fascinating history of volcanic activity.

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In 1965, a mountaineer found a dead seabird and spent 50 years saving it

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Meet Edward Kang, 17, who trained AI to screen for autism and ADHD

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Cashew shells once discarded are now being tested aboard commercial ships

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Brazil orange juice plant to turn citrus wastewater into renewable biogas

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Louis Dreyfus Company is spearheading a remarkable project in Brazil, aiming to turn citrus wastewater into renewable energy. This ambitious plant will soon hold the title of the largest biogas production facility in the world, capable of generating an impressive fifty thousand cubic meters of biogas each day.

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Tuvalu’s rat removal is bringing birds and coconut crabs back to six islets

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'Did not meet launch conditions': China's unmanned moon mission delayed last minute

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Five leopard cats were found breeding in Changi forest before Terminal 5 changed their future

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New Zealand removed 200,000 mice from an island; native bird populations more than doubled

New Zealand's 2016 effort to remove an estimated 200,000 mice from Antipodes Island has been followed by a clear recovery in native bird populations. Monitoring confirmed the mice were gone in 2018, while surveys over the next six years found Antipodes Island pipit and snipe numbers had more than doubled.

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From Thumba to tomorrow: Indian space programme is preparing for its biggest leap yet

India's space program began with a small rocket range in 1962. It progressed to launching its first satellite and developing indigenous launch vehicles. Chandrayaan-3's lunar landing marked a significant achievement for the nation. The program now includes private sector involvement and ambitious future goals. India aims for a space station by 2035 and a lunar landing by 2040.

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Delhi-NCR twins turn okra, fenugreek and rice husk into a Rs 100 electricity-free water filter

Delhi-NCR twins Naina and Nayantara Singh developed a plant-based water purification system. Their innovation, Aqua Sattva, uses okra, fenugreek, and rice husk to remove contaminants. This system targets microplastics and PFAS, often called forever chemicals. Independent laboratory testing showed significant removal efficiency for these pollutants. The affordable and eco-friendly prototype aims to make safe drinking water more accessible.

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New snake species named after Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash; here’s why scientists chose him

In a fascinating discovery, scientists have unveiled a new non-venomous snake species from New Guinea, named Lielaphis slashi. This remarkable naming pays tribute to Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash, also known as Saul Hudson, who has always been captivated by reptiles and the natural world. First encountered during past fieldwork, this small ground-dwelling snake signifies the incredible biodiversity and urgent conservation efforts needed in New Guinea.

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Asia’s high-mountain ‘water tower’ is losing 24 billion tonnes of groundwater annually, new research finds

Groundwater reserves in High Mountain Asia are experiencing severe depletion annually due to a combination of climate impacts and excessive human water usage. The irrigation needs in the lower basins dramatically exacerbate groundwater storage losses. If current consumption trends continue, projections suggest that depletion will persist. Although temporary glacier melt may provide a short reprieve, this will be followed by a more rapid decline.

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Astronomers find evidence of a galaxy merger 12 billion years ago shaping the Milky Way

A fascinating discovery has emerged from astronomers: evidence of a galaxy merger that occurred within our Milky Way. This merger, which transpired around 12 billion years ago, involved a dwarf galaxy called LKH. By studying globular clusters, researchers uncovered essential details that point to increased star formation during the galaxy's formative years, deepening our insight into its complex evolutionary history.

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Sophie Adenot becomes first French woman to walk in space as ISS job continues

On August 18, French astronaut Sophie Adenot made history with her first spacewalk, collaborating with Anil Menon to replace a vital station antenna. However, they were unable to complete the task due to time constraints. A follow-up spacewalk is set for August 25, focusing on the antenna installation and potentially addressing additional maintenance tasks if time permits.

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Florida Atlantic University gets $600,379 grant for algal bloom solution

Researchers at Florida Atlantic University are crafting cutting-edge 3D-printed designs aimed at phosphorus extraction. These pioneering structures target excess nutrients from surface water, staving off harmful algal blooms. By converting algal biomass into efficient phosphorus-capturing materials, field trials will assess their performance and ecological safety in actual ponds. This innovative technology presents a forward-thinking solution for tackling nutrient pollution before blooms occur.

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Tasmania spent 28 years removing invasive carp from two lakes; after 49,301 fish were...

After a remarkable 28-year campaign, Tasmania's fisheries service has successfully eliminated invasive common carp from Lake Sorell and Lake Crescent. This effort has seen the removal of over 49,000 harmful fish, leading to clearer waters and the revival of native plant life in marsh areas. The resurgence of wild brown trout has also enhanced recreational fishing opportunities for anglers, proving that large lakes can recover from invasive species.

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Japan moved 10 cane toads to Ishigaki. Decades later, they evolved to 20,000

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Annapurni Subramaniam wins 2026 COSPAR Vikram Sarabhai Medal; marks milestone for India

In a remarkable milestone for space research, Professor Annapurni Subramaniam has been awarded the COSPAR Vikram Sarabhai Medal for 2026, marking her as the first Indian woman to receive this prestigious honor. This award recognizes her invaluable contributions to space research within developing nations. Her extensive expertise, particularly in pioneering space observatories, highlights how her work has elevated Indian space astronomy to new heights.

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Diabetes, BP & smoking tied to dementia: Study

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In 1968, Montana began stocking tiny shrimp to feed kokanee salmon; after they reached...

In 1968, the introduction of opossum shrimp into Montana's lakes triggered a dramatic decline in the kokanee salmon population. The shrimp fiercely competed with young salmon for essential zooplankton, resulting in a disarrayed food chain. Meanwhile, the lake trout population thrived as they turned to the remaining salmon for sustenance. This shift irrevocably changed Flathead Lake's ecological landscape and impacted its indigenous fish communities.

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African honeyguides recognise honey hunters' calls to help find hidden bee nests

In Africa, wild honeyguides have showcased their remarkable ability to identify specific human calls, making them indispensable allies for honey hunters searching for concealed bee nests. Recent studies reveal that these birds are more responsive to local calls than to those from outsiders. This finding implies the evolution of a sophisticated communication system honed through generations, facilitating the birds' survival by guiding them to beeswax.

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Coffee beans found in Civet poop makes one of the world’s most expensive Kopi Luwak

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Meet Arya Gurumukhi, the Texas student turning sunlight into fuel

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In the 1990s, a predatory flatworm was released in Samoa to control giant African snails

The introduction of the invasive flatworm, Platydemus manokwari, aimed at pest control, has resulted in a dramatic decline of native tree snail populations in the Pacific Islands. This aggressive predator actively hunts these snails, driving several species towards extinction. Following previous unsuccessful biological control attempts, federal data now labels these native snails as endangered or threatened, prompting strict biosecurity measures to halt the invasion of this detrimental species.

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Meet Astrid Eeuwes: The Dutch amateur astronomer who studies tiny space dust

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NASA-backed aerobots could explore caves on Saturn's moon Titan

Nasa is backing a new concept for small flying robots to explore caves on Saturn's moon Titan. These proposed vehicles, called aerobots, would use silent electrohydrodynamic thrusters for movement. Titan's dense atmosphere could make this propulsion system highly efficient and practical for exploration. The SPARK project is currently in an early research phase, focusing on feasibility studies. This technology could significantly expand future exploration of Titan's hidden underground environments.

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Meet Alfred: Trainee lawyer who fills his bedroom with dung to film fungi

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Would you eat ketchup that was made from algae but fulfilled your protein intake? Scientists have just created one

Researchers are enhancing ketchup by incorporating protein extracted from microalgae. This exciting advancement greatly increases the protein levels in this beloved condiment. Studies showed that adding moderate amounts of algae preserved the familiar taste and look of ketchup, while excessive levels changed its flavor and hue. Microalgae represent a sustainable, effective method for enriching food with vital proteins.

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