Latest news with #CanadianMuseumofNature
NDTV
6 days ago
- Science
- NDTV
Scientists Recover Rare Proteins From 24-Million-Year-Old Rhino Fossil
Scientists have recovered ancient proteins from a fossilised rhinoceros tooth, which is a crucial step in the study of ancient life on Earth. The 21-to 24-million-year-old fossil was found in the Haughton Crater on Nunavut's Devon Island in the 1980s. The proteins were preserved in the tooth's enamel, which acted like a "vault" protecting them over millions of years. Researchers analysed the proteins using a technique called chiral amino acid analysis. Danielle Fraser, the Canadian Museum of Nature's head of paleobiology and one of the research scientists involved in the study, revealed that the proteins are 10 times older than any previously recoverable sample of ancient DNA. The discovery has opened up new possibilities for studying ancient life and evolution, potentially allowing researchers to analyse proteins from even older fossils, including dinosaur fossils. They can also use the analysis to study the evolutionary relationships between different species. The proteins in the rhino fossil are intact in the high Arctic's dry, cold environment, and the hardiness of tooth enamel. Otherwise, ancient DNA does not typically survive beyond one million years. The study, published July 9 in the scientific journal Nature, suggests that proteins can survive for millions of years under the right conditions. The development would help in future research into ancient proteins and their potential to simplify our understanding of evolution. "It's very clear that the Arctic is creating a freezer allowing these proteins in these animals to be preserved over much longer time periods than we would expect. This really extends our ability to understand evolution back much farther than we previously thought," said Fraser. "Humans are the last few milliseconds on that clock right before you hit the 12. And that 23 million years is going to be about five minutes ago." The ancient rhino diverged from other rhinocerotids during the Middle Eocene-Oligocene epoch, around 41-25 million years ago. The two main subfamilies of rhinos, Elasmotheriinae and Rhinocerotinae, diverged more recently than previously believed, around 34-22 million years ago.
CBC
15-07-2025
- Science
- CBC
Proteins from rhino fossil found in Nunavut crater dated to 20 million years
Social Sharing Scientists studying a 21-to 24-million-year-old rhino fossil found in the Haughton Crater on Nunavut's Devon Island say the high Arctic environment preserved the oldest recoverable ancient proteins found so far. The proteins recovered from the rhino tooth, found decades ago, are 10 times older than any previously recoverable sample of ancient DNA, said Danielle Fraser, the Canadian Museum of Nature's head of paleobiology and one of the research scientists involved in the study. The researchers, whose findings were published Wednesday in the journal Nature, say their ability to time stamp the proteins well into "deep time" was made possible with newer technologies, and they say that should encourage future paleontological work in the world's coldest places to gather similarly preserved fossils. Reconstructing evolution was previously limited to four-million-year-old samples and the ancient proteins identified so far reached only into the middle-late miocene, roughly 10 million years ago. Ancient DNA does not typically survive beyond one million years, but the high Arctic's dry, cold environment, and the hardiness of tooth enamel, kept the proteins in the rhino fossil intact. In a lab in Copenhagen, scientists successfully extracted and sequenced data from the proteins inside the tooth, Fraser said. "It's very clear that the Arctic is creating a freezer allowing these proteins in these animals to be preserved over much longer time periods than we would expect. This really extends our ability to understand evolution back much farther than we previously thought," said Fraser. To understand deep time, Fraser says, imagine a clock representing the entire history of the evolution of life on earth. "Humans are the last few milliseconds on that clock right before you hit the 12," she said. "And that 23 million years is going to be about five minutes ago." This scientific study analyzed highly-preserved fossils by looking at their ancient proteins, rather than morphology — what the bones look like compared to each other — to determine an extinct species' evolutionary path. Rhinos once lived across the world, with some debate about whether the species originated in Asia or North America. Ancient DNA science can provide better insight into how and when they evolved, said Fraser. Rhino evolution Modern rhinos are thought to have diverged from other rhinocerotids during the Middle Eocene-Oligocene, between 25 and 41 million years ago. The study's authors say their research supports the divergence of two main subfamilies of rhinos (Elasmotheriinae and Rhinocerotinae), and a bone analysis suggests a more recent split, roughly 22 to 34 million years ago. The unique environment of the Haughton Crater on Devon Island is promising for future studies on preserved proteins, said Fraser. The rhino fossil was collected decades ago by the late Mary Dawson, a vertebrate paleontologist from Pittsburgh's Carnegie Museum of Natural History. Dawson collected it in 1986 at a time when protein extraction and ancient DNA technology "effectively didn't exist," according to Fraser. Fraser said in recent years, teams working on Devon Island or Ellesmere Island have worked with local community members like Jarloo Kiguktak of Grise Fiord, Nunavut. Kiguktak, an experienced fossil collector, said he joins the researchers on their search for specimens. How did they do it? The study's authors say they sequenced enamel proteins from the rhino fossil and more than 1,000 amino acid chains (peptides), which are the building blocks of proteins. They confirmed the proteins were ancient by matching the signs of age-related damage to expected burial conditions more than 20 million years ago in the Arctic environment, the researchers said. Dental enamel is the hardest material of vertebrates and it protects the proteins from breaking down over time, the research states. Fraser said while paleontology may sometimes be seen as "nerds studying their dinosaurs," these findings allow for reconstruction of molecular patterns. "We are nerds, and we love studying our fossils," she said.
Vancouver Sun
19-06-2025
- Vancouver Sun
Here's what you can do in Ottawa with the Canada Strong Pass
Under the new Canada Strong Pass, Ottawa might see an uptick in tourists . On Monday morning, Canadian Identity and Culture Minister Steven Guilbeault said Canadians will have a 'unique opportunity' to explore 'the very best our country has to offer.' 'I'm very happy to see how these initiatives will create momentum across the country,' Guilbeault said at the Canadian Museum of Nature. From June 20 to Sept. 2, 2025, Canada's historic sites and national parks will be free to visit and Via Rail tickets will be 25 per cent cheaper for young adults aged 18 to 24. Children 17 and under can travel for free on Via Rail, accompanied by an adult. Plan your next getaway with Travel Time, featuring travel deals, destinations and gear. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Travel Time will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. Museums will be offering 50 per cent off admission fees for youth aged 18 to 24 and free admission for children 17 and under. No registration or physical pass is required to use the pass. The pass launches on Friday and benefits will be immediately available at parks, museums and on the Via Rail booking site. Here's what you can access and explore in the Ottawa area under the Canada Strong Pass. Laurier House National Historic Site Located in Sandy Hill, this historic site commemorates two of Canada's prime ministers , Sir Wilfrid Laurier and William Lyon Mackenzie King. From 1897 to 1948, the house acted as a central location of political life in Canada. Fort Wellington National Historic Site Originally built in 1838, this structure is one of the 'best preserved nineteenth-century fortifications in Canada' and holds historical and strategic significance from the War of 1812. The fort is located in Prescott, right on the St. Lawrence River, a short drive away from Ottawa. Rideau Canal National Historic Site The Rideau Canal was labelled a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. It transforms into the world's largest skating rink during the wintertime, but you can easily rent a kayak at Dow's Lake and explore the canal that way. Parliament Hill While the Parliament Buildings are not open to the public, the Hill is, and is always worth a quick visit. It's a popular tourist destination and is a symbolic piece of Canadian politics and democracy. Canada Agriculture and Food Museum The national agriculture museum offers exhibitions on Canada's agricultural heritage, and how agriculture science and technology are used to benefit Canadians every day. There are 150 farm animals, including chickens, goats, horses and an alpaca. Canada Aviation and Space Museum More than 130 aircraft and artifacts, including from First and Second World War planes, are housed in this museum. They offer interactive demonstrations and helicopter sightseeing rides right from the museum, fostering a greater appreciation for Canadian aviation history. Canadian Museum of History Located in Gatineau, this national museum houses Canadian anthropological, ethnological and cultural history. It focuses on promoting Canada's heritage and is known for having Canada's largest museum of human history. Canadian Museum of Nature This national classic houses several exhibitions and programs on Canada's impressive natural history, Arctic species and butterfly exhibits . It holds several impressive galleries, including a water gallery, a Pacific Discovery Tank and a large fossil gallery. Canada Science and Technology Museum This museum has a responsibility to preserve Canada's scientific and technological history. It houses more than 150,000 objects, including vintage cars, and includes daily experiments and a steam locomotive hall. Canadian War Museum The war museum covers the country's military history and serves as a place of remembrance and an educational facility. It houses several military holdings, including rare vehicles, uniforms, medals and personal memoirs. National Gallery of Canada Located near the ByWard Market, this art museum is one of the largest museums in North America with more than 93,000 pieces of art. Originally built in 1880, it showcases contemporary, Indigenous and historical art. Our website is your destination for up-to-the-minute news, so make sure to bookmark our homepage and sign up for our newsletters so we can keep you informed.
17-06-2025
The Canada Strong Pass launches Friday to promote domestic tourism. Here's what it offers
Canadian Culture and Identity Minister Steven Guilbeault announced on Monday morning that the federal government will launch the Canada Strong Pass later this week — a move to promote domestic tourism that makes Canada's historic sites and parks free to visit and rail travel less expensive for young people. Canadians are proud of their country. Canada is strong and it's yours to discover, Guilbeault said at the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa. The pass, which launches on Friday and ends Sept. 2, doesn't require registration or a physical card. Instead, the benefits will be available upon arrival at parks, national museums and when booking train tickets. Canadians and foreign tourists are eligible. In a news release, Canadian Heritage (new window) said the pass includes free admission for all visitors to national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas administered by Parks Canada and a 25 per cent discount on camping fees. Canadian Culture and Identity Minister Steven Guilbeault says the Canada Strong Pass isn't a physical document and doesn't require registration. Instead, the benefits will be available upon arrival at national parks and historic sites. Photo: The Canadian Press / Sean Kilpatrick The pass also gives children aged 17 and under free admission to national museums and the Plains of Abraham Museum. For young adults aged 18 to 24, they get a 50 per cent discount. Children aged 17 and under can also travel for free on Via Rail when accompanied by an adult. Young adults aged 18 to 24 get a 25 per cent discount on tickets. Finally, children get free admission to select provincial and territorial museums and galleries, while young adults aged 18 to 24 get a 50 per cent discount. Our federal government makes it easier than ever for families to choose Canada when planning their summer vacation, and to fully enjoy the places and experiences that bring us together and that strengthen our country, Guilbeault said. More Canadians exploring Canada The federal government's announcement comes as fewer Canadians travel south to the United States — and some of that travel itch is being redirected back to Canada. In May, Statistics Canada released data that showed return trips by Canadians coming back from the U.S. by air dropped by 19.9 per cent, and return via land borders dropped by a whopping 35.2 per cent compared to April of last year. A truck drives past the passenger entry point at the U.S.-Canada border in Surrey, B.C., on March 4, 2025. (Ethan Cairns/The Canadian Press) Photo: (Ethan Cairns/The Canadian Press) Many Canadians have been opting not to visit the U.S. in recent months for a number of reasons, such as increased scrutiny and risk of detention at the border (new window) , or as a way to boycott the U.S. (new window) given President Donald Trump's trade war threats and talk of annexing Canada. In March, at least eight provinces and territories (new window) shared with CBC News that they've seen increased interest from Canadian tourists in visiting their respective regions. Guilbeault said the pass is about discovering and reconnecting with nature, history and culture of this remarkable country we all share and are proud to call our own. WATCH | Canada Strong Pass includes free and discounted entry to some popular tourist sites — but there are concerns about overwhelming locations: Début du widget Widget. Passer le widget ? Fin du widget Widget. Retourner au début du widget ? Government launches Canada Strong Pass to promote tourism The federal government has announced details of the Canada Strong Pass, aimed at promoting domestic tourism. It includes free entry to national parks and conservation areas as well as lower prices for campsites, but there are concerns about further overwhelming locations. Benjamin Lopez Steven (new window) · CBC News
Yahoo
16-06-2025
- Yahoo
The Canada Strong Pass launches Friday to promote domestic tourism. Here's what it offers
Canadian Culture and Identity Minister Steven Guilbeault announced on Monday morning that the federal government will launch the Canada Strong Pass later this week — a move to promote domestic tourism that makes Canada's historic sites and parks free to visit and rail travel less expensive for young people. "Canadians are proud of their country. Canada is strong and it's yours to discover," Guilbeault said at the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa. The pass, which launches on Friday and ends Sept. 2, doesn't require registration or a physical card. Instead, the benefits will be available upon arrival at parks, national museums and when booking train tickets. Canadians and foreign tourists are eligible. In a news release, Canadian Heritage said the pass includes free admission for all visitors to national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas administered by Parks Canada and a 25 per cent discount on camping fees. The pass also gives children aged 17 and under free admission to national museums and the Plains of Abraham Museum. For young adults aged 18 to 24, they get a 50 per cent discount. Children aged 17 and under can also travel for free on Via Rail when accompanied by an adult. Young adults aged 18 to 24 get a 25 per cent discount on tickets. Finally, children get free admission to select provincial and territorial museums and galleries, while young adults aged 18 to 24 get a 50 per cent discount. "Our federal government makes it easier than ever for families to choose Canada when planning their summer vacation, and to fully enjoy the places and experiences that bring us together and that strengthen our country," Guilbeault said. The federal government's announcement comes as fewer Canadians travel south to the United States — and some of that travel itch is being redirected back to Canada. In May, Statistics Canada released data that showed return trips by Canadians coming back from the U.S. by air dropped by 19.9 per cent, and return via land borders dropped by a whopping 35.2 per cent compared to April of last year. Many Canadians have been opting not to visit the U.S. in recent months for a number of reasons, such as increased scrutiny and risk of detention at the border, or as a way to boycott the U.S. given President Donald Trump's trade war threats and talk of annexing Canada. In March, at least eight provinces and territories shared with CBC News that they've seen increased interest from Canadian tourists in visiting their respective regions. Guilbeault said the pass is "about discovering and reconnecting with nature, history and culture of this remarkable country we all share and are proud to call our own."
