Sun-powered sponges may generate 11% of tropical coral reef productivity
Sponges in tropical coral reefs use photosynthesis to produce nutrients, potentially generating 11% of the reef's total productivity. Researchers at the University of Amsterdam's Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics published findings in Functional Ecology showing that sponges supplement their filter-feeding with photosynthetic energy production.
Read full story →Venus’s pale yellow clouds may hide something surprisingly dark
Scientists calculated that Venus's clouds' unidentified dark ultraviolet material absorbs light far more strongly than previously thought. This finding narrows possibilities for determining whether the mysterious substance is organic, inorganic, or something unexpected.
Scientists find water was fueling volcanoes 3 billion years ago
Water-rich crustal material sank into Earth's mantle more than three billion years ago through a process called "dripduction," fueling volcanic eruptions. Ancient rocks from Western Australia provided evidence that this water-delivery mechanism operated long before modern plate tectonics fully developed.
Scientists discover a hidden switch that shuts down inflammation
Scientists discovered a natural braking system that switches off inflammation and prevents harmful immune cell buildup. Boosting this pathway in people reduced inflammation-related immune changes and accelerated pain relief.