MI weekly selection #596
Genetic erosion poses hidden threat to species survival
Research on the regent honeyeater, a critically endangered bird from southeastern Australia, reveals that despite severe population decline, the species retains high genetic diversity. Through whole-genome sequencing and ecological modeling, the study underscores the delayed impact of genetic erosion and the importance of integrating genetic data over time to understand long-term risks in conservation.
Full Story: PhysOrg
Venus flytrap-like abdomen discovered in ancient wasp
A new species of wasp featuring a unique abdomen resembling a Venus flytrap has been identified from 99-million-year-old amber, according to a study in BMC Biology. The study suggests the female wasps used this feature to temporarily restrain hosts during egg-laying, indicating a koinobiont parasitic behavior.
Full Story: ScienceAlert
Human facial growth stops earlier than Neanderthals
Modern humans have smaller, flatter faces compared with Neanderthals because humans’ facial growth stops in early adolescence, while Neanderthals’ continues into adulthood. Researchers used 3D modeling and microscopic analysis to examine 174 skulls, finding that bone resorption is more prevalent in humans, whereas Neanderthals show more bone formation.
Full Story: Live Science
Curiosity rover uncovers long carbon chains on Mars
NASA’s Curiosity rover has detected chains of up to 12 carbon atoms in an ancient lakebed on Mars, according to research in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. These chains, including decane, undecane and dodecane, represent the longest carbon molecules identified on Mars to date, highlighting the potential for biochemical processes.
Full Story: ScienceAlert
Peridotite depletion boosts Hawaiian magma production
A study finds that the most isotopically enriched Hawaiian magmas come from the most depleted peridotites, leading to higher melt productivity. The research, using Monte Carlo simulations, shows that buoyancy from prior melt depletion increases plume flux and magma production, explaining variations in Hawaiian volcanic activity over millions of years.
Full Story: Eos