Slime after slime: why those biofilms you slip on in rivers are vitally important

Oct 16, 2023 09:09 am UTC| Nature

You might have noticed it after sliding on a rock in a Melbourne creek. Or it could have been wading through a Northern Territory waterhole. Its slime, and our rivers are full of it. Thats a good thing. Wherever there...

How clouds protect coral reefs, but will not be enough to save them from us

Oct 15, 2023 04:03 am UTC| Nature

Coral reefs are vital ecosystems for people and coastal communities. They provide food and livelihoods and protect coastlines from storms, contribute to local economies and preserve cultural heritage. However, warming...

If we protect mangroves, we protect our fisheries, our towns and ourselves

Oct 12, 2023 07:34 am UTC| Nature

Mangroves might not look like much. Yes, they can have strange aerial roots. Yes, theyre surrounded by oozing mud. But looks can be deceiving. These remarkable shrubs and trees are nurseries for many species of fish,...

What is seawater intrusion? A hydrogeologist explains the shifting balance between fresh and salt water at the coast

Oct 12, 2023 07:29 am UTC| Nature

Seawater intrusion is the movement of saline water from the ocean or estuaries into freshwater systems. The seawater that has crept up the Mississippi River in the summer and early fall of 2023 is a reminder that coastal...

Climate Change Series

Even temporary global warming above 2℃ will affect life in the oceans for centuries

Oct 11, 2023 03:44 am UTC| Nature

There is growing consensus that our planet is likely to pass the 1.5℃ warming threshold. Research even suggests global warming will temporarily exceed the 2℃ threshold, if atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) peaks at levels...

Hotter, drier summers will make European craft beers less 'hoppy' – new study

Oct 11, 2023 03:43 am UTC| Nature

September 2023 was the warmest ever recorded according to the EU Climate Service, with Earths average surface air temperature peaking at 16.38C. The average global temperature was also at least 1.5C higher than...

‘Phantom decoys’ manipulate human shoppers – but bees may be immune to their charms

Oct 11, 2023 03:37 am UTC| Nature

Have you ever waited in a long queue only to find the ice cream flavour you wanted is gone? What did you choose instead? In the field of behavioural economics, researchers have shown that people make very predictable...