Biology news covering genetics, evolution, microbiology, ecosystems, species discoveries, and advances in biological science research.
This satirical commentary humorously describes various tick species, exaggerating their dangers and mocking urbanites' fear of nature. It argues that ticks are grotesque and that precautions are futile, using dark comedy to critique the anxiety surrounding outdoor activities.
This commentary argues that bumblebees, despite their tiny brains, are capable of complex problem-solving previously thought unique to larger animals like chimpanzees and elephants. It highlights a study where bees learned to roll a ball to reach a reward, suggesting that cognitive abilities may not require large brains.
This commentary reports on research finding that fog contains bacteria that consume formaldehyde, suggesting these microbes play a role in atmospheric chemistry. It argues that this discovery highlights a previously unknown biological process that could help mitigate air pollution, framing the fog's microbiome as beneficial rather than harmful.
This commentary explores the phenomenon of trees growing on other trees, describing examples like a Scots pine epiphyte on a birch and intertwined species. It explains natural grafting (inosculation) and epiphytic growth, blending natural history with personal observation and folklore.
New research from Hungary's Centre for Ecological Research finds that some urban birds are altering their songs to be heard over traffic and city noise. The study highlights how wildlife adapts to human-dominated environments.
Researchers from the University of York and University of Copenhagen discovered that tobacco plants temporarily attach a glucose molecule to a nicotine building block, which then disappears. The finding solves a long-standing mystery and could help prevent nicotine contamination in medicines from tobacco relatives.