Articles tagged with Museums
Early humans in East Africa began trading with distant groups using color pigments and manufacturing more sophisticated tools around 320,000 years ago. This period of high environmental variability may have driven the emergence of complex behaviors that distinguished human lineage from other early humans.
Researchers discovered a hidden caricature of Michelangelo in a sketch of Vittoria Colonna, which may help analyze the artist's physical appearance at the time. The self-portrait, leaning forward at an acute angle, is believed to have served as a signature by Michelangelo.
The Microplants project uses online tool Zooniverse to enable citizen science volunteers to analyze photos of liverworts, measuring their primitive leaflike structures. Over 11,000 users assisted in analyzing liverwort photos, contributing to research that can inform environmental policy.
The special issue presents 13 research papers by 35 authors on contemporary myriapod research, including new species discoveries and molecular phylogenetic studies. The collection also includes an editorial and a paper on the online platform VIRMISCO.
Scientists have named a new butterfly species, Wahydra graslieae, after the Field Museum's chief curiosity correspondent Emily Graslie. The dark rust-colored skipper with silver scales is found in the Ecuadorian Andes and expands our understanding of the genus Wahydra diversity.
Researchers have developed a detection system for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by modern museum artifacts, allowing for non-invasive monitoring of their preservation status. The system uses gas-chromatography/mass-spectrometry to identify characteristic VOC patterns, enabling the classification of degradation states.
A new study confirms the value of iDNA methods in biodiversity surveys, identifying certain ground birds and bats for the first time. Leeches can be used to survey more rapidly and confidently identify small mammal species, making them an extremely useful tool for conservation purposes.
Researchers used CT technology to scan 13 Tasmanian tiger joey specimens, creating high-resolution 3D digital models that reveal the species' growth and development. The study sheds light on the evolution of the Tasmanian tiger's unique appearance, which resembles that of dogs and wolves.
A computational model predicts which organisms can engage in phagocytosis, a process vital for immune defenses and nutrient uptake. The model's findings suggest that phagocytosis may have arisen after the combination of archaeal and bacterial components in eukaryotic cells.
Researchers discovered that dumbo octopods hatch as competent juveniles with fully formed fins and advanced organ development. The findings suggest a significant shift in the understanding of their life cycle, highlighting the complexity and uniqueness of deep-sea creatures.
Using non-invasive portable imaging techniques, researchers uncovered hidden images connected to other works by Picasso and a landscape likely by another Barcelona painter underneath 'La Miséreuse accroupie'. The study revealed major compositional changes made by Picasso as he worked toward his final vision.
Two new genera of slugs, Fjordia and Gulenia, have been discovered by Norwegian divers, with one genus named after a dive resort and the other after its founder. The discovery is attributed to DNA analysis and citizen science efforts.
Researchers create biomechanical models to test how ecological factors like age at sexual maturity and average precipitation influence skull shape in carnivoran species. The study reveals that nondietary factors significantly impact both skull form and function, surpassing dietary influences.
Researchers studied woodpecker brains for tau protein accumulation, a sign of brain damage in humans. The study suggests that the accumulation might be a protective adaptation rather than indicative of injury, which could have implications for human neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers have discovered that modern cheetahs possess a distinct vestibular system in their inner ear, which enhances sensitivity and rapid responses to head motions. This unique anatomy allows the cheetah to maintain its gaze locked on prey during high-speed hunts.
A study of 9500-year-old bone samples found that people from western Norway were genetically similar to those east of the Baltic Sea in Russia, while eastern Scandinavians were more similar to central and western Europe. The discovery highlights multiple waves of migration to Scandinavia.
The study provides a comprehensive dataset of mammalian traits in the Atlantic Forest, expanding possibilities for zoological and ecological research. The data aims to draw attention to the region's importance and encourage conservation efforts, highlighting the crucial role small mammals play in the ecosystem.
A rare 200-million-year-old ichthyosaur specimen of the new species Wahlisaurus massarae has been discovered in a UK private collection. This fossil is only the second known example of this species, previously discovered by Dean Lomax in 2016.
A study mapping China's 30,000 flowering plant species reveals a significant East-West divide in evolutionary relationships and biodiversity. The research highlights the need for conservation efforts in densely populated eastern China to protect threatened plant species and their animals.
Researchers studying a new species of parasitoid wasp discovered it has a unique saw-like spine structure that allows it to break free from its host. The wasp, Dendrocerus scutellaris, is likely an endoparasitoid, feeding on live insects.
Researchers studied angiosperm genera in China, finding that eastern provinces have a 'museum' of ancient plants, while western provinces are an evolutionary cradle for herbaceous genera. The study suggests conservation efforts should focus on connecting nature reserves across provincial borders.
Researchers have discovered that brittle stars use thousands of light-sensitive cells in their skin to navigate complex environments. The team found these photoreceptors on the entire body surface and embedded them in the skin, challenging a long-held lens-based hypothesis.
A study covering 300 million years of evolutionary history found that only a few extinct animals developed tail weaponized features. The researchers identified four essential traits: large body size, armor, herbivory, and thoracic stiffness. These conditions are rarely seen in living animals, explaining the rarity of modern tail weaponry.
Researchers have identified 18 new species of pelican spiders in Madagascar, known for their unique biology and hunting behavior. The discovery sheds light on the island's biodiversity and emphasizes the need to conserve its shrinking forests and unique species.
A team of scientists has discovered a new species of giant extinct burrowing bat in New Zealand, dating back to the Miocene era. The fossilized remains of Vulcanops jennyworthyae were found near St Bathans, with estimates suggesting it was three times the size of an average bat today.
A new study reveals that treeshrews defy two widely tested rules governing geographical variation within species: the island rule and Bergmann's rule. In contrast to predictions, treeshrew populations exhibit no size difference between mainland and island habitats.
A study published in Ophthalmology found that art training improved medical students' observation and diagnostic skills. The study involved 36 first-year medical students who received six 90-minute art observation sessions at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, resulting in significantly improved observational skills and empathy.
Scientists have discovered a 508-million-year-old sea predator with a unique 'jackknife' head, shedding light on the evolution of spiders, scorpions, and horseshoe crabs. The fossil's anatomy reveals a complex apparatus of appendages and jaws that made it an efficient predator.
A new ancient dolphin species, Urkudelphis chawpipacha, has been discovered in Ecuador, with a fossilized skull featuring distinctive facial features. The species is believed to be an ancestor of the nearly-extinct Platanistoidea, or river dolphin, and may have lived during the Oligocene era.
A new study published in Science Advances suggests that the emerging snake fungal disease could infect all snakes globally, regardless of their ancestry or habitats. The disease, caused by Ophidiomyces ophidiodiicola, primarily affects snakes' skin, leading to lesions and potentially deadly outcomes.
Researchers have identified a 3.5-million-year-old bear from the Canadian High Arctic with a sweet tooth, determined by cavities in its teeth. The bear, Protarctos abstrusus, was slightly smaller than a modern black bear and had a flatter head.
A new study identifies nearly 50 shifts from nocturnal to daytime behavior in butterflies and moths, challenging previous assumptions about their activity patterns. The research suggests that the earliest ancestor of butterflies and moths flew during the day, contrary to earlier thought.
The removal of water from the Colorado River has led to a loss of unique ecological species, which are now at risk of extinction. Hybridization between the native species and those in the surrounding estuaries poses a significant threat to their survival.
Scientists discovered tick fossils trapped in amber, providing direct evidence of ticks parasitizing dinosaurs. The ticks were found attached to a dinosaur feather and offered the first direct fossil evidence of ticks feeding on dinosaurs.
A new study reveals that extinct marine reptiles called sauropterygians evolved similar inner ear proportions to modern aquatic reptiles and mammals. The research found that nearshore sauropterygians had ears similar to those of crocodiles, while fully-aquatic plesiosaurs had ears similar to sea turtles.
Scientists have filled in key clues on the evolution of animals transitioning to aquatic life using a newly discovered reptile fossil. The study suggests that Vadasaurus, an ancient creature with features well-suited for aquatic life, is linked to modern New Zealand species and ancient sea-dwelling vertebrates.
A new study found that artwork created by artists experiencing personal unhappiness, particularly during bereavement, can experience a significant decrease in value. Paintings created in the year following a friend or relative's death saw a 35% drop in value compared to other works.
The discovery was made possible by DNA sequencing techniques, revealing differences in the number of tentacles, bell size, and stinging cells between the two species. The newly recognized species may have implications for understanding jellyfish blooms and their impact on Eastern oyster larvae.
Researchers from University of Toronto and Georgian National Museum discover 8,000-year-old wine production in ancient Middle East, dating back to early Neolithic period. The discovery confirms the use of domesticated grapes (Vitis vinifera) for winemaking, pushing back the origin of practice by 600-1,000 years.
A new study analyzing the jaws of the extinct otter Siamogale melilutra found that its jaw bones were six times sturdier than expected, indicating a strong bite force. The discovery suggests that the massive otter may have been a top predator in its time, crushing shells and bones of birds and small mammals.
The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute is sequencing 25 new UK species genomes to aid conservation and understand biodiversity. The results will be made publicly available and lead to future studies on the UK's rich species richness.
A 6,000-year-old skull discovered in Papua New Guinea may be the oldest known record of a person killed in a tsunami. The skull was found with geological characteristics matching ancient tsunami activity, suggesting it could belong to the world's earliest known tsunami victim.
A new study suggests that standard ways of measuring well-being and sustainability in communities may be missing critical information, leading to missteps in management actions. The authors propose alternative approaches using indicators grounded in the values of a particular community.
A nearly complete skeleton of a 76-million-year-old tyrannosaur was discovered in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The fossil is believed to be an individual of the species Teratophoneus curriei, with a relatively short head and estimated length of 17-20 feet.
Scientists have discovered a new species of jellyfish, the bay nettle jelly (Chrysaora chesapeakei), in the Chesapeake Bay. These jellies are smaller and have fewer tentacles than their ocean cousins, highlighting the importance of marine ecosystems.
Researchers found the common ancestor of apes to be small, probably weighing around 12 pounds, contrary to previous suggestions. This discovery has implications for understanding the evolution of human family trees and behavior such as suspensory locomotion.
A new study has re-examined a 1970s-discovered ichthyosaur, Protoichthyosaurus, and found major differences in its forefin structure compared to Ichthyosaurus. The discovery of fake fins added to some specimens led to the recognition of a new species, Protoichthyosaurus applebyi.
Researchers have analyzed DNA of living and dead Lord Howe Island stick insects, confirming their species identity and increasing likelihood of successful reintroduction. The study highlights the importance of museum collections in taxonomic validation.
Researchers used genetic sequencing to confirm that Ball's Pyramid stick insects are the same species as Lord Howe Island's, making them officially resurrected. The discovery provides hope for reintroducing the insect into its native home on Lord Howe Island.
Scientists discovered a prehistoric squid's remains in the stomach of a nearly 200-million-year-old newborn ichthyosaur. The young ichthyosaur was around 70 cm long and had a complete set of bones, making it exceptionally well-preserved.
A newly identified prehistoric marine predator has shed light on the origins of ancient reptiles. The Melksham Monster, a 10-foot-long animal that lived in warm seas during the Middle Jurassic, reveals an early rise of these distant relatives.
A new study recounts the life and work of Hisako Koyama, a pioneering female solar observer who created detailed sunspot drawings for over 40 years. Her archive was used to establish a continuous record of sunspots stretching back to 1610, shedding light on the solar cycle and its influence on Earth.
Researchers finally found a giant, tree-dwelling rodent after years of searching in the Solomon Islands. The newly discovered species, Uromys vika, is approximately 4 times larger than black rats and can weigh up to 2.2 pounds.
Exceptionally preserved trilobite fossils reveal that at least two species evolved a stomach structure 20 million years earlier than thought. This discovery contradicts previous assumptions about trilobite digestive systems and evolution, suggesting a more complex evolutionary history.
Scientists identified Painted Rocksnail as a distinct species despite mistaken identity for over 100 years. New study confirms its restricted range and implications for conservation efforts are significant.
A new study reveals a clear relationship between the frontal bones and forebrain as well as parietal bones and midbrain in dinosaurs and birds. The research used CT scanning techniques to analyze embryos of lizards, alligators, and birds, confirming the link found in reptiles.
Przewalski's horses have shifted their diet from desert shrubs and leaves in winter to herbaceous plants at all seasons, unlike their ancestors in the past. This change occurred after humans expelled them from steppe communities and forced them into near-desert habitats.
A computer algorithm developed by ITMO University's programmers analyzes Instagram photos taken in Saint Petersburg to identify popular locations favored by residents. The results provide insider information for tourists, offering a more authentic experience.
A recent study calls for the expedited sampling and digitizing of Arctic specimens on an international scale to fill gaps in biological diversity. The goal is to develop a comprehensive and accessible collection that can be used by researchers, educators, and the public to tackle conservation problems and promote STEM education.
A team of researchers has recovered the location of a nova that was first spotted by Korean astrologers in 1437, providing evidence for a long-term life cycle with multiple stages. The study supports the idea that novae undergo smaller-scale eruptions after fading to obscurity for thousands of years.