Astronomers have confirmed the first known 'middleweight' black hole, HLX-1, using observations with CSIRO's Australia Telescope Compact Array. The black hole is estimated to be around 20,000 to 90,000 times the mass of the Sun and lies in a galaxy called ESO 243-49.
A study analyzing 235 types of rice found its glycemic index (GI) varies greatly among types, with most scoring a low to medium GI. This allows consumers, including those with diabetes or at risk, to select rice varieties for a healthy diet.
Researchers have discovered an additional third of atomic hydrogen gas in galaxies, which could impact star formation rates. The findings suggest that galaxies are forming stars at 20 times the rate they did billions of years ago.
Scientists have measured a significant decline in Antarctic Bottom Water, a key driver of global ocean currents, with a 60% reduction estimated since 1970. The densest waters are becoming less saline, indicating rapid response to climate changes.
A new 'super-high' oleic safflower has been developed by CSIRO, with the potential to provide over 100,000 hectares of sustainable plant oils. The oil contains over 90% of valuable oleic acid, making it suitable for industrial chemical production and direct use in lubricants.
Australian scientists detected changes in ocean salinity, indicating an acceleration in the global rainfall and evaporation cycle. The water cycle has strengthened by four percent from 1950-2000, with high rainfall regions becoming wetter and arid areas drier due to global warming.
A new software tool called Acacia has been developed to correct errors in DNA sequencing, allowing biologists to accurately interpret genetic information. The tool, created by CSIRO PhD student Lauren Bragg, uses statistical theory to analyze code for DNA bases and improve accuracy.
A handheld plasma flashlight has been developed to effectively kill bacteria on the skin's surface, including antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus faecalis. The device, powered by a 12-volt battery, generates a plasma plume that penetrates deep into bacterial layers, killing them in tens of seconds.
Researchers from CSIRO Australia found that consuming resistant starch can lead to positive changes in the bowel and may reduce genetic damage implicated in bowel cancer. The recommended daily intake of resistant starch is around 20 grams, equivalent to eating three cups of cooked lentils.
Researchers have generated a 65-year record of Southern Hemisphere nitrous oxide measurements to better understand the long-lived greenhouse gas's impact on climate and stratospheric ozone depletion. The study found a 20% increase in atmospheric nitrous oxide since 1750, largely attributed to agricultural sources.
The Atlas of Living Australia has added over half a million records, including those from 17th-century Dutch navigators, to reach its 30-millionth species occurrence record. This milestone is made possible through collaborative efforts between museums, universities, and the CSIRO.
Australians and Koreans have linked their radio telescopes for the first time, creating a gigantic telescope spanning over 8,000 km. The combined system has 100 times the resolving power of the Hubble Space Telescope, enabling scientists to study distant galaxies in unprecedented detail.
Scientists have attributed early grape ripening in wine grapes to climate warming and soil water content declines. The study reveals that management factors also influence the shift, providing opportunities for growers to develop adaptation strategies. Human-induced climate change is a key driver of this trend.
A salt-tolerant variety of durum wheat has been developed using traditional crop breeding techniques, delivering increased yields on salty soils. The research introduces a salt-tolerant gene into commercial wheat, providing farmers with an alternative for growing premium wheat in saline paddocks.
A scientific team reports that a 'balanced harvest' can achieve productive fisheries while conserving environmental factors, according to the journal Science paper. This approach maximizes production and minimizes ecological effects by targeting multiple species and sizes.
Scientists have tracked water from Bass Strait to the Indian Ocean using ocean gliders, revealing a 200-metre tall wall of water and discovering undiluted Bass Strait water hundreds of kilometres away. The study showcases the benefits of Australia's Integrated Marine Observing System.
The 93.6-meter vessel will enable advanced atmospheric research and map the seafloor up to six kilometers below the surface. CSIRO will operate the vessel, replacing the 40-year-old Southern Surveyor, and make it available to all Australian marine scientists.
The Tasman Sea has become a global warming hotspot, with ocean temperatures rising two degrees warmer than 60 years ago due to intensified east-west winds and greenhouse gas emissions. A long-term monitoring network is needed to track these changes.
A new species of horse fly, Scaptia (Plinthina) beyonceae, has been discovered in Australia and named after Beyoncé. The fly's golden abdomen makes it a unique specimen. Horse flies are important pollinators of plants, acting like hummingbirds during the day.
Global carbon dioxide emissions increased by 5.9% in 2010, with contributions from China, USA, India, and the European Union. The recovery was short-lived as strong emissions growth resumed in developed economies.
The report presents the most comprehensive scientific analysis of climate change in the Pacific region, indicating warmer temperatures, ocean acidification, and increased extreme weather events. Future projections suggest decreased droughts and tropical cyclone frequencies, but increased extreme rainfall and sea-level rise.
Marine life may need to relocate faster than land species due to climate warming, posing a significant conservation challenge. The rate at which marine life relocates depends on the distance it needs to travel to reach its preferred temperature conditions, with many areas having relatively little temperature variation.
Experts from leading science organisations have released a blueprint for urgent action to address the global challenge of feeding the world in the face of climate change. The report recommends climate-resilient agricultural production, efficient resource use, and low-waste supply chains.
The 'Pollen Under the Microscope' exhibition showcases stunning images of pollens from Australia and overseas, using cutting-edge technology to rapidly identify pollen grains. Pollen is vital for human life, agriculture, and biodiversity, and this technology aims to aid conservation and ecology by providing more accessible information.
Researchers reveal new insight into global photosynthesis, estimating a 25% increase in the chemical process governing CO2 absorption and release. The study provides a benchmark for models simulating carbon cycling through plants.
A new study from CSIRO Australia has found that Australia's average wind speed is increasing, contrary to recent international studies showing a decrease. The research provides valuable insights into the causes of variations in near-surface wind and long-term wind speed trends over Australia.
A team of astronomers using CSIRO's radio telescope discovered a small planet made of diamond orbiting an unusual star called PSR J1719-1438. The discovery provides insight into the evolution of binary systems and the formation of 'diamond planets', which are thought to be composed of crystalline material.
A CSIRO study reveals galaxies have less molecular hydrogen gas than in the past, leading to fewer stars forming. The decline in gas availability is linked to Dark Energy's acceleration of the Universe's expansion.
A new network of deep-ocean moorings is being deployed in the Indonesia Archipelago to measure changes in ocean currents between the Pacific and Indian Oceans. The moorings will help scientists understand the impact of these currents on Australia's climate, including tropical weather patterns and seasonal rainfall.
A new study finds that reducing catches of small 'forage' fish like sardines and anchovies can protect larger predatory species. Halving fishing rates for high-impact species could greatly reduce ecosystem impact while achieving 80% of maximum sustainable yield.
Researchers from CSIRO and universities have developed a pragmatic decision framework for determining when to relocate species due to climate change. The framework considers factors such as population size and expected losses through relocation to determine the best timing for moving species.
Researchers have identified a genetic mechanism that enables viruses to infect plants, causing diseases. By targeting the CHL1 gene, CMV and its satellite virus cause yellowing symptoms in plants by preventing chlorophyll production. This breakthrough allows for the development of altered plant varieties with resistant genes.
CSIRO scientists rely on international cooperation to deploy Argo ocean and climate monitoring instruments, as Somali pirates operate in the region. The program offers crucial data for understanding Australian and south Asian weather patterns.
New research reveals that established forests remove 2.4 billion tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere annually, equivalent to one third of current annual fossil fuel emissions. This is a significant breakthrough demonstrating how forests impact atmospheric CO2 levels through tree growth and expansion.
The SKA radio telescope has successfully linked its antennas over long distances using an optical fibre network, a key step towards observing distant galaxies in greater detail. The experiment saw six telescopes working together to observe a quasar 7.5 billion light-years away, revealing new insights into the universe.
A future climate is likely to lead to an increase in the frequency and intensity of wildfires, according to CSIRO's Dr Melita Keywood. The complex relationship between fire and climate change requires closer scientific attention to predict fire occurrence and understand its impacts on atmospheric chemistry.
Decreasing autumn and winter rainfall over southern Australia is attributed to a 50-year decrease in storm intensity. The trend is linked to reductions in the strength of the mid-latitude jet stream and changes in atmospheric temperatures.
Ladybird beetles' ability to produce anti-ant defences has led to their high diversity, with most species having one or both of these defences. This evolutionary shift allowed ladybirds to successfully poach soft-bodied scale insects from under the noses of aggressive ants.
The CSIRO website provides easy access to greenhouse gas data measured in the Southern Hemisphere atmosphere for the past 35 years. Key findings include a record-high level of carbon dioxide, increasing at about 0.5% each year, and an almost 40% increase over the past century largely due to human activities.
A study by CSIRO Australia found that the frequency of extreme storm surge events generated by Adriatic Sea tempests could fall by about 30 percent by 2100. This reduction in extreme events may have beneficial consequences for the conservation of Venice, a World Heritage-listed city built on 117 small islands.
A new sustainable aviation fuels industry in Australia and New Zealand could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 17% and generate over 12,000 jobs. The CSIRO report predicts a reduction in Australia's reliance on imported fossil fuel by $2 billion per annum.
A new experimental vaccine has shown promising results in protecting horses against the deadly Hendra virus, according to CSIRO scientists. The vaccine's successful development could help prevent the spread of the disease from flying foxes to horses and ultimately to people.
A team of researchers successfully barcoded over 28,000 Australian moth and butterfly specimens, covering 65% of the country's known species. This achievement will transform biodiversity monitoring and biosecurity efforts in Australia.
A CSIRO Australia study found that ocean warming is detrimental to the growth of a long-lived south-east Australian and New Zealand inshore species, the banded morwong. The research team analyzed long-term changes in the growth rates of the banded morwong and observed slowed growth at warmer temperatures.
Researchers found tiger-parrots occupy a unique spot on the parrot evolutionary tree, contradicting long-held assumptions about their relationships. This discovery sheds light on the bigger picture of parrot evolution in Australia and New Guinea.
The study identifies three periods of rapid evolution in the fly family tree, with mosquito, March fly, and common house fly branches emerging around 220, 175, and 50 million years ago. This research provides a framework for future comparative work on species critical to society and science.
Marine scientists compiled a directory of life on Australia's continental shelf, identifying 37 environmental factors shaping seabed life. The new maps and knowledge highlight complex patterns of biodiversity across the country's shelf habitats.
Studies by CSIRO and the University of Sydney found that ants and termites can increase wheat crop yields by up to 36% under low tillage conditions. The insects improve soil nitrogen and water infiltration, reducing runoff and evaporation. This breakthrough has significant implications for dryland agriculture in hot and dry climates.
A team of archaeologists and palaeontologists discovered prehistoric human faces in Lene Hara Cave, dated to the late Pleistocene era. The 'sun ray' face has been confirmed to be around 10,000 to 12,000 years old, while other faces are likely to be equally ancient.
A collaboration between CSIRO and NASA has tracked down 25 ultrafast 'millisecond' pulsars in just two years, revealing insights into the physics of these small spinning stars. The research uses a combination of land- and space-based detectors to understand how pulsars make their beams of radiation.