Biology
From the smallest microbe to the largest dinosaurs and from the tiniest spore to the biggest giant sequoia, biological research continues to uncover weird and wonderful secrets.
Latest News
-
We see what was on the trilobite menu nearly half a billion years ago
September 27, 2023Some 465 million years ago this marine scavenger was caught unawares by a mud current that would bury it alive. It had spent its last hours feasting on a large range of seafood, and now, thanks to the latest imaging tech, its last meal has been revealed. -
Look out, L'Oréal: Whales play with seaweed to exfoliate their skin
September 27, 2023Play is a vital part of animal behavior, helping to form social structures and bonds, develop cognitive function and enhance physical abilities. Now, it's believed whale play with seaweed to scrub off dead skin cells and parasites as they migrate. -
'Emotional' worms offer clues to how genetics may drive our own feelings
September 26, 2023Delivering electric shocks to 1mm-long roundworms may sound rather meanspirited, but scientists have used this stimuli to uncover some curious behaviors of C. elegans that could further our understanding of human emotional mechanisms. -
“Jumping genes” pathway provides a potential way to slow aging
September 25, 2023Researchers have found that quieting some mobile DNA sequences in roundworms led to a longer life. Not only does the discovery provide a greater understanding of how we age, but it also opens the door to potential applications in biology and medicine. -
New rare gene discovery provides further insights into male hair loss
September 24, 2023A new study has identified rare genetic variants associated with male pattern hair loss. In addition to increasing our understanding of the condition, the findings may pave the way for personalized therapies. -
First RNA extracted from extinct species may help thylacine resurrection
September 24, 2023Scientists have successfully extracted RNA from an extinct species for the first time. This was achieved in the thylacine, a species of carnivorous marsupial that roamed Australia until a century ago – and may again one day, if current plans bear fruit. -
Catastrophic avian influenza reaches the Galapagos for the first time
September 22, 2023Almost 200 years on from when Charles Darwin observed his Galapagos Islands finches, which became the emblems of his theory of evolution, birds in the region are again in the news for what many scientists warn could be the source of the next pandemic. -
Parasite turns hapless ants into zombies at sunrise and sunset
September 17, 2023Hijacking the body of another animal is nothing new in the opportunistic world of parasitism. But for the first time, scientists have observed how one crafty flatworm can switch ‘zombie mode’ on and off, leaving its host ant stuck between life and death. -
More than 400 animals on Stone Age ‘zoo’ identified by their footprints
September 13, 2023More than 400 footprints across a diverse range of species have been identified in incredible detail for the first time, with researchers enlisting a trio of expert indigenous trackers to help solve the mystery of these 5,000-year-old records. -
Sexy mice help scientists uncover the drivers behind male libido
September 04, 2023Believe it or not, male sexual desire actually begins in the brain. Scientists have found the neural circuit that triggers mating behaviors and the ensuing pleasure and reward feedback in mice. They hope it can lead to new drugs to treat dysfunction. -
Small snake's egg-swallowing prowess puts pythons to shame
August 28, 2023Burmese pythons are famously known for being capable of swallowing pigs whole, but you have to keep in mind, the snakes themselves are pretty darn big. When it comes to snake-to-prey-size ratio, however, nothing beats the Gans' egg-eater. -
Naked mole-rat's 'longevity' gene extends lifespan and health of mice
August 23, 2023They weigh about an ounce, spend their lives underground and are unlikely to be shortlisted for any cute animal calendars, but the fascinating naked mole-rat continues to offer clues that it holds the key to anti-aging under its pale, wrinkly skin. -
After a long search, scientists finally find out what's in his genes
August 23, 2023In what might be a surprise for some, the male sex chromosome is far more complex than its female counterpart. This is why it’s taken scientists so long to work out exactly what makes a male a male. Now, they've completed the elusive Y chromosome map. -
Glitter proves far from fabulous for growth of key aquatic organisms
August 22, 2023A study has found that glitter negatively affects the growth of cyanobacteria, an important player in aquatic ecosystems and a key component of marine food webs, highlighting the importance of reining in the use of this stealthy microplastic. -
Polar bears can now be identified by DNA left in their paw prints
August 20, 2023With grim predictions that all polar bears may be wiped out by the end of the century, it’s vital scientists find a way to better monitor the beasts to see if conservation efforts are having any impact. So they decided to 'fingerprint' them using DNA.
Load More