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Nature
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As grandiose as we might think our civilizations have become, we are but the latest entry in the long chronicle detailing life on Earth. We humans share this planet with fellow organisms whose vast numbers completely tower over our own. We borrowed this planet from its previous inhabitants from eons ago and whose lives were written on the soil-turned-rock on which they were laid to rest. Modern Sciences urges its readers to contemplate our planetary co-inhabitants, both past and present.
The Dormant Viruses That Wake Up in Astronauts
Because there’s a good chance that right now, you have at least one virus that’s been hiding inside of you for years, lying dormant.
How Dinosaur Extinction Led to a World Full of Fruit
The cascade of changes that followed the extinction of the dinosaurs may have had one surprising effect: the evolution of a world teeming with fruit.
How do we understand life on Earth? A prize-winning biography charts the tension between two types of science ‘genius’
John Long, Flinders University The modern science biography must hold back no punches in its mission to represent…
Spear-nosed bat discovered in Mexico, a first for the country
For the first time, researchers have documented the Greater Spear-nosed Bat in Mexico, extending its known range by 75 miles and sparking calls for its protection.
Study finds red-footed tortoises can experience moods
New research provides the first clear evidence that reptiles experience long-term mood states, a discovery that could reshape animal welfare laws and our understanding of sentience.
Neanderthal gene variant linked to reduced athletic performance in modern humans
A gene variant inherited from Neanderthals produces a less efficient muscle enzyme, which may explain why some modern humans are less likely to become top-level athletes.
Study: Elephants use dozens of gestures intentionally
A new study provides the first evidence that African Savannah elephants use a wide range of deliberate and flexible gestures to communicate their specific goals to a human audience.
Hold up, humans. Ants figured out medicine, farming and engineering long before we did
Tambon Nong Chaeng/Pexels Tanya Latty, University of Sydney and Chris R. Reid, Macquarie University Think back to a…
You Are a Fish (And You Never Left the Water)
The secret to conquering land wasn't learning to breathe air, but evolving a way to carry the ocean with you.
A cat’s catch leads scientists to discover new virus in Florida shrew
A pet cat’s prey has led scientists to discover and genetically map a new strain of orthoreovirus in a Florida shrew.