Researchers have made a significant find with the identification of Vizellopsidites miocenicus, a previously unknown fungal species, preserved in fossilized leaves from Himachal Pradesh. Dating back to the Late Miocene epoch, about 12 to 8 million years ago, this ectoparasite reveals crucial insights into ancient ecological interactions within tropical Siwalik forests, highlighting the intricate relationships between flora and fungi in prehistoric environments.from Science News: Fresh Discoveries, Research & Breakthroughs https://ift.tt/pWaK63k
Rice husk ash from rice mills has been shown to improve the properties of asphalt mixtures. The incorporation of varying ash amounts led to increased stiffness and higher resistance to permanent deformation. Higher ash content resulted in better performance at elevated temperatures but raised concerns about workability and low-temperature brittleness. Research indicates a trade-off between performance benefits and risks associated with increased ash amounts.
In Pass Christian, Mississippi, a wildlife center dedicates its efforts to training orphaned raccoon kits for their return to the wild. Through engaging, hands-on methods, staff members equip these young raccoons with essential survival techniques, such as foraging, swimming, and evading dangers. After around six months of training, the young raccoons are released back into their natural forest environments, significantly improving their chances of thriving in the wild.
Vivien He has created an innovative IoT device called Qube, retailing for under $100. This device specializes in detecting earthquakes and alerts users through alarms or text messages. After a nine-month trial, it successfully identified quakes greater than M 3.0 in the Los Angeles region. The data collected indicated a reliable correlation between ground movements and quake magnitudes, underscoring the viability of affordable earthquake warning solutions in cities.
California state officials secured 640 acres of desert land near Pioneertown for western Joshua tree conservation. Researchers identified this land as suitable for the species despite climate change. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife completed the acquisition with funds from the Western Joshua Tree Conservation Fund. Collaboration with Native American tribes is planned for long-term stewardship of the property.
Burmese pythons were radio-tracked in Big Cypress National Preserve from 2017 to 2024 to study habitat use. Researchers found that juveniles displayed greater arboreal behavior compared to adult pythons, with varying seasonal patterns. Adult pythons preferred trees during the cooler dry season, while juveniles showed similar trends in habitat usage. The study recorded different tree species preferred by various sized pythons during arboreal observations.