Earth was inhospitable to complex life for billions of years, practically suffocating evolution in a nearly oxygen-free environment. Then came a shift in phosphorus concentrations to ocean shallows, and after that, the evolution of complex life exploded.
Norway reprieves 32 of 47 wolves earmarked for cull
Under Norway’s endangered predator laws, only 15 lone wolves proved to pose a threat to livestock.
Trilobites: Rapid Evolution Saved This Fish From Pollution, Study Says
Distinct populations of Atlantic killifish developed adaptations that helped them survive in waters tainted by toxic leftovers of industrial manufacturing.
Why were prehistoric insects so huge?
Do you complain about dead bugs on your windshield? Then be thankful that insects today are smaller than their prehistoric ancestors.
World’s highest plants discovered growing 6km above sea level
Coin-sized pioneers are the highest vascular plants ever found, living at more than 6100 metres above sea level on India’s dizzying Himalayan peaks
Seasonal wetlands face uncertain future
Ephemeral wetlands are poorly understood habitats and are being lost to future generations as a result of poor land-use practices, warn scientists.
Genetically Modified Bacteria Conduct Electricity, Ushering in New Era of Green Electronics
Soil bacteria modified to conduct 2000 times as much electricity as that in untreated dirt
Piranhas with human-like teeth in Michigan fuel concern over invasive fish
The large, South American tropical fish were probably illegally dumped in the Great Lakes by pet-owners who no longer wanted to keep them in aquariums
Dinosaur-surviving mammal endangered by stray dogs
Research shows the solenodon evolved more than 70 million years ago – in time to hang out with dinosaurs. But today these unique mammals face a barrage of threats including stray dogs, feral cats, invasive mongoose and deforestation.
Managing an endangered river across the US–Mexico border
A new IIASA study shows how improving communication and involvement could bring consensus solutions for the embattled Rio Grande/Bravo, which is shared between the USA and Mexico.