(SCIENCE) Aboard the International Space Station twelve consecutive generations of worms have now successfully reproduced. While worms are not humans, we share the same size genome with worms, and many of our genes perform the same functions. The worms in space were unaffected by the gravity changes and other spatial conditions, leading researchers to believe this is the first of many steps towards the human colonization of other planets. — Global Animal
(CHIMPANZEE DISCOVERY) Here’s one more reason proving primate intelligence. Just like we take vitamins, drink tea, or eat certain foods when we’re not feeling well, chimps self-medicate with plants. This new research finding shows that chimpanzees often consume plants that are mostly non-nutritional and sometimes toxic in order to cure various bodily ailments. Read more about how members of this intelligent species learn how to care of themselves. — Global Animal
(ANIMAL SCIENCE) A recent study conducted by the University of Oxford demonstrates how in certain instances European starlings make better choices when they have less information. The research focuses on irrational behavior and aims to identify the decision processes used by animals and humans. Read on to learn more about this fascinating study. — Global Animal
(BEE DISCOVERY) NEW YORK — The American Museum of Natural History announced that 11 new species of bees have been discovered, including 4 from New York City and the surrounding suburbs. Although the recent buzz has been about the decline in honeybee numbers, this new finding gives hope to the bee population and the fact that new animal species are frequently discovered. Read on about these new bee species, including the aptly named Gotham Bee from New York City. — Global Animal
(ANIMAL SCIENCE) Japanese scientists have discovered that copper butterflies simply close their wings to avoid unsought attention from males. Since these butterflies only mate once during their lifetime, persistent mating attempts can be problematic for females. Read on to learn more about this avoidance strategy. — Global Animal
(ANIMAL SCIENCE) NORTH CAROLINA— Joining the likes of invertebrates, sharks, and even the komodo dragon, female pit vipers also have the capability to produce live, healthy off-spring without sexual contact with a male. Scientists observed a copperhead snake who, after no contact with a male of the same species, birthed one surviving hatchling at the North Carolina Aquarium. Since eggs are precious and limited, researchers believe this evolutionary characteristic combats the uncertainty of finding a fitting mate. In addition, female pit vipers can conserve sperm after sex for up to five years. Read on to learn more about these thrifty females of the animal kingdom. —Global Animal
(SHARK DISCOVERY) GULF OF CALIFORNIA — Though the truth about Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, and the Abominable Snowman remains unknown, the “Cyclops Shark,” who’s riding an internet wave of popularity, appears to be the real deal.After being captured, the one-eyed fish was studied by two marine scientists in La Paz, Mexico, who labeled it an abnormal dusky shark fetus. Biologists say sharks like this are extremely rare and couldn’t survive more than a few days. Read on for more information regarding this bizarre animal and possible reasons for having one single eye. — Global Animal
(FISH DISCOVERY) A new study suggests that fish are an important link in the evolution of land animals. The research focuses on how fish can control their movements both in water and on land, and how their jumping skills might have made them the first terrestrial dwellers. Read on for evidence of why we might have evolved from these acrobatic fish. — Global Animal
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