Two of the best papers that go directly to the heart of the issues on the polar bear listing as endangered by the US government are: Demographic and Ecological Perspectives on the Status of Polar Bears, by Dr Mitchell Taylor and Dr Martha Dowsley, … [Read more...] about Best Bear Papers – A Note from Bob Ferguson
Plants and Animals
Mammal, Reptile, or Bird? Platypus DNA Unravelled
The genetic blueprint of the Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) has been deciphered by an international team that includes Australian scientists, and published in the journal Nature. More explanation here on the BBC News website: Platypus genetic … [Read more...] about Mammal, Reptile, or Bird? Platypus DNA Unravelled
Mealybugs and Jumping Plant Lice
I must confess that I really can't remember when I first came to believe that Green Tree Ants, presented in the previous entry, farmed aphids concealed under frass. However, I am always willing to learn, so thank you Jennifer for the … [Read more...] about Mealybugs and Jumping Plant Lice
Green Tree Ants
Green tree ants Oecophylla smaragdina farm aphids for their honeydew. They are occasionally referred to as weaver ants because they form large leafy nests bound with silk. Through amazing co-operative strength, they form strings of hundreds of ants … [Read more...] about Green Tree Ants
Biomimetics
Mimicking the Bumps on Humpback-whale Fins Could Lead to More Efficient Wind Turbines. Biomimetics is the abstraction of good design from nature. Continue reading the ABC (US) news story: Whale-Inspired Windmills Thanks to Ann Novek of Sweden for … [Read more...] about Biomimetics
Hercules Moth
In matters of antennae, I imagine that surface area correlates with sensitivity. The male Hercules Moth Coscinocera Hercules must find his mate within a very short timeframe. Adult females emerge from the chrysalis without mouth-parts, her 4-5 day … [Read more...] about Hercules Moth
Jennifer Marohasy BSc PhD is a critical thinker with expertise in the scientific method.
