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Yahoo
2 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
Powerful tool captures unbelievable activity of critical species in Australia: 'Without attaching sensors or disturbing [them] in any way'
Researchers have unveiled a powerful new tool that could revolutionize the study of insects and their place in the world's ecosystems. The technology allows scientists to measure heartbeats and other data using videos taken on smartphones and posted online, according to a study published in the Archives of Insect Biochemistry and Physiology. The new methods allow researchers to observe insect behavior and physiology without resorting to the usual invasive methods. This is better for the insects and allows for more accurate data collection. "Insects are vital to our ecosystems, and understanding their physiological responses to environmental change is essential," said Danyi Wang, a Ph.D. candidate at the University of South Australia and one of the study's two co-authors, per Technology Networks. "Existing methods to measure insects' vital signs are invasive, however. Our method preserves natural behavior while providing accurate insights into their heart activity." The advancements also have the potential to open up a treasure trove of new data in the form of millions of videos posted to social media. With the technology able to analyze video taken from everyday smartphones, researchers could tap into networks of thousands, if not millions, of citizen scientists to aid in data collection. "With more refinement, this could become a cost effective and valuable tool in the ecological research toolkit," said Wang, according to Technology Networks. "It gives us the ability to listen to the hearts of the smallest creatures without harming them." Insects play a vital role in maintaining food supplies and economies around the world. Insects pollinate crops, make soil better for plants, and filter water supplies, according to World Wildlife Magazine. Contrary to popular belief, of the more than one million identified insect species, only 0.5% damage crops. In fact, insect species like ground beetles actually increase crop yields by eating pests and weeds. Insects also keep populations of disease-carrying mosquitoes in check, with some dragonflies consuming over 100 mosquitoes per day, per World Wildlife Magazine. Despite the vital role insects play in maintaining life on Earth, some experts have projected that, if current trends continue, as many as 40% of insect species will go extinct by the end of this century. Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely Only in some areas No way I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Technological breakthroughs — like the one announced by Ph.D. candidate Wang and her supervisor and co-author Javaan Chahl — will allow researchers to better understand how insects are responding to environmental stressors like habitat loss and the changing climate. It will also allow experts to better formulate strategies to help maintain key insect populations, all without harming the insects or altering their natural behavior. "What's exciting is that this was all achieved without attaching sensors or disturbing the insects in any way," said Chahl, the study's lead author, according to Technology Networks. While the potential for citizen scientists to pitch in on data collection by simply using their smartphones is exciting, there are already plenty of things that can be done to help pollinators and other insects right in your own backyard. For example, planting a native garden or rewilding your yard can lower your water bill while also providing vital food and shelter for local insects, small mammals, and birds. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
21-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Scientists issue warning after making disturbing find in bird species: 'An urgent need to address'
A new study has found that microplastics are accumulating in birds' lungs, adding to concerns about the prevalence of these particles in our air and food. Shane DuBay, a member of the University of Texas at Arlington team behind the research, said that birds were selected for the study because they can be found nearly everywhere on Earth and often share habitats with humans, according to Technology Networks. "Birds are important indicators of environmental health," DuBay said. The Texas scientists worked with Chinese researchers from Sichuan University to conduct the study at an international airport in Chengdu. The team studied 56 wild birds representing 51 different species, collecting samples of their lungs to test for microplastic contamination. By using advanced chemical analyses to identify plastic types, the researchers found an average of 221 particles per species. Common plastics included chlorinated polyethylene, a common insulation material for pipes and wires, and butadiene rubber, which is used to make tires. The findings were published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials. As the name suggests, microplastics are tiny — no larger than a grain of sand — fragments of the many plastics we use for a variety of things. More than 10,000 chemicals are used to make plastic, according to a 2021 Swiss study, with over 2,400 of those "of concern" for human health. Although no amount of microplastics in the lungs is deemed safe, per Technology Networks, high concentrations can be linked to serious respiratory issues. More broadly, the bird study echoes similar findings of microplastics "hot spots" in human lungs and nasal passages, indicating the effects of airborne drifting of particles. Microplastics have been found in a wide range of human tissues and are believed to have links to cancer and reproductive issues. DuBay described the research findings as a call to action for better management of microplastic contamination. "Our research highlights an urgent need to address plastic pollution in our environments, as these contaminants can have far-reaching impacts on ecosystem health, as well as human health," DuBay said. "Our findings call for further research, funding and action to mitigate the harmful effects of plastic pollution and ensure a healthier environment." On an individual level, there are tons of ways to reduce plastic use in day-to-day life. Avoiding single-use plastics, such as water bottles and utensils, is a great way to remove a top contributor of dietary microplastics while decreasing waste. Do you worry about air pollution in and around your home? Yes — always Yes — often Yes — sometimes No — never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Some unexpected sources of microplastic pollution include fast-fashion clothing items, which tend to be made from synthetic materials — so greening up your wardrobe by choosing clothes made from natural fibers could help both the planet and your personal style. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
