Articles tagged with Museums
Field Museum scientists, along with colleagues, have solved the mystery of the Tully monster, a bizarre aquatic animal found in Illinois 307 million years ago. The team determined that the monsters are jawless fish similar to today's lampreys, based on analysis of over 2,000 specimens from the Field's collection and X-ray scans.
A Yale-led team of paleontologists has determined that the Tully Monster, a 300-million-year-old animal with teeth at the end of a narrow head extension and eyes on either side of a long bar, was a vertebrate with gills and a notochord. The discovery sheds light on the creature's likely predatory lifestyle.
The Hawai'i Undersea Research Laboratory (HURL) has successfully recovered a bronze bell from the I-400, a World War II-era Imperial Japanese Navy mega-submarine. The recovery was made possible through a collaboration between HURL and other organizations, including NOAA and the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum.
Researchers confirm medullary bone, a gender-specific reproductive tissue found in birds, in a 68 million-year-old T. rex fossil. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of egg-laying in modern birds and provides a new tool for identifying dinosaur sex.
Researchers analyze Kolponomos fossils and compare them to those of Smilodon, finding similarities in jaw structure suitable for anchoring against prey. The study suggests that Kolponomos may have used an anchor-biting strategy to pry hard-shelled invertebrates from rocks.
A fossilized femur bone has revealed the massive size of an abelisaur, potentially one of the largest ever found. The discovery helps researchers determine the maximum sizes these dinosaurs may have reached during their peak.
Scientists have developed an illustrated key to distinguish between 41 snout moth grass borers using genitalia analysis. This helps identify economically important pests that feed on crops like sugarcane and corn in the Western Hemisphere.
Researchers have observed that three years after its explosion, the brightness of a type Ia supernova continues to shine brighter than expected. This finding suggests that the powerful explosions produce an abundance of heavy cobalt, which provides an extra energy boost.
New research reveals that dodos had a brain size comparable to pigeons, suggesting moderate intelligence. The study also found an enlarged olfactory bulb in the dodo's brain, indicating a reliance on smell for navigation.
Glyptodonts likely originated less than 35 million years ago from ancestors within modern armadillo families, contradicting previous assumptions. The close relatives of glyptodonts include giant armadillos and the four-ounce pink fairy armadillo, challenging existing concepts of their distinctiveness.
Researchers analysed genetic variation in extinct Glanville fritillary butterfly populations to understand metapopulation dynamics. The study shows that rapid environmental change can lead to species adaptation through natural selection on dispersal.
The oldest zoological journal in Africa, African Invertebrates, has moved to Pensoft's ARPHA publishing platform for fast-track professional publication services and semantically enriched content. This move aims to ensure the journal's future relevance and growth through cutting-edge publishing tools and workflows.
A 90-million-year-old fossil fish has been identified as a new species, Pentanogmius fritschi, with a tuna-like body and unique 'hook-shaped sail'. The discovery was made by Kenshu Shimada and his team at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas.
A University of Queensland-led study has discovered two new species of extinct kangaroos that couldn't hop but may be ancestral to modern wallabies and kangaroos. The ancient creatures lived around 15-23 million years ago in a densely forested landscape, outcompeting their fanged cousins.
A Northwestern University research team has discovered telling clues about the materials and methods used by Roman-Egyptian artists to paint lifelike mummy portraits. The analysis provides strong evidence on how many of the 15 paintings were made, shedding light on the evolution of painting techniques in the Byzantine Empire.
Scientists discovered advanced social behavior in 100-million-year-old amber, revealing that ants and termites had sophisticated caste systems tens of millions of years earlier than thought. The fossils preserved the presence of different castes, including queen ants and workers, as well as eusocial behaviors such as combat and foraging.
Two new species of weakly electric mormyrid fish have been discovered in the rivers of Gabon, belonging to a newly described genus Cryptomyrus. The discovery was made using only three specimens collected over 13 years, highlighting the need for natural history collections to connect the dots.
Biologists discover 14 new spider species in southwestern US, nearly doubling the known number. The new species, including Aphonopelma johnnycashi, are found in California and have unique characteristics that set them apart from other tarantula species.
A recent study has found that the majority of species are poorly known, making it difficult to determine their conservation status. Newly discovered species are often found to have smaller ranges and occupancies, as well as greater perceived extinction risk.
The researchers' findings could lead to more effective bedbug control and development of new insecticides. The study's data also provide insights into the genetic basis of bedbug adaptation to human environments.
An international team of researchers embarks on a monthlong expedition to Antarctica in search of ancient fossils, hoping to answer questions about the origins of modern bird and mammal groups. The team aims to uncover evidence of mammals from the Cretaceous period, which could shed light on evolutionary diversifications in Antarctica.
A new genus and species of 'horned necked' praying mantis, Cornucollis masoalensis, has been discovered in a French museum collection. The insect features distinctive speckled patches on its head and pale color with opaque wings, suggesting it dwells on the undersides of leaves.
A team of scientists has discovered twenty-four new beetle species in Australian rainforests, shedding light on the conservation of highly localized species. The newly described weevils are thought to have originated in Australia, with some species found only in a single locality.
A new species of leech from Australia has been named Chtonobdella tanae in recognition of best-selling author Amy Tan. Using computed tomography (CT) scanning, researchers were able to describe the internal anatomy of a soft-bodied animal for the first time.
A new carnivorous dinosaur species, Dracoraptor hanigani, has been uncovered in south Wales, potentially dating back to the earliest days of the Jurassic Period. The fossil, discovered in 2014, represents one of the most complete theropod specimens from Wales and may be one of the oldest known Jurassic dinosaurs in the UK.
A new species of bird has been discovered in northeastern India and adjacent parts of China by an international team of scientists. The Himalayan forest thrush Zoothera salimalii has distinct differences in plumage, structure, song, and DNA from other related species.
A recent study found that US homes contain a vast array of arthropods, including insects, spiders, and centipedes, with an average of 100 morphospecies per home. Many of these species are benign and unaware human presence, highlighting the importance of exploring their role in home ecosystems.
A team of researchers tracked a rare 66-million-year-old tyrannosaur footprint trail in Wyoming, shedding new light on the dinosaur's speed and hunting habits. The study suggests that even young tyrannosaurs were capable of rapid movement, challenging previous theories about their sluggish nature.
The Interact project creates mixed reality virtual Holocaust survivors that provide personal testimony and respond to questions. This innovative technology ensures a rich experience for audiences, allowing future generations to better understand the history of the Holocaust.
A recent survey of praying mantises in Rwanda revealed a significant increase in species diversity, with 28 new records added to the country and 20 new regional records discovered. The study highlights the importance of further research into insect fauna in Rwanda's national parks.
The discovery of eggs with embryos preserved within the body of a 508-million-year-old Waptia fossil provides the oldest direct evidence of a creature caring for its offspring. This finding supports the theory that the presence of a bivalved carapace played a key role in the early evolution of brood care in arthropods.
Simon Singh, a renowned science writer and broadcaster, is receiving the 2016 JPBM Communications Award for Expository and Popular Books. The National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath) will also receive the award for Public Outreach. MoMath enhances public understanding of mathematics through its dynamic exhibits and programs.
The ICZN has set up an endowment fund to protect its long-term viability, receiving gifts totaling S$1.35 million from the Lee Foundation and other benefactors. This will support the operations of the ICZN Secretariat, with the goal of fully funding its office in Singapore for perpetuity.
A 15-million-year-old fossil sperm whale specimen from California has been re-analyzed by researchers, revealing a new genus name 'Albicetus' due to its bone-white color. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of body size in sperm whales and suggests that they may have fed on large prey like marine mammals.
The discovery of Phosphorosaurus ponpetelegans, a 72-million-year-old marine reptile, reveals new insights into the evolution of mosasaurs. The fossil's superior preservation provides details on its unique characteristics, including binocular vision and a hunting strategy that involved targeting glowing fish and squids at night.
A new sand fly species, Psathyromyia baratai, has been discovered in Brazil. The species was originally misidentified and found to be an undescribed species through detailed analyses.
Researchers have described a new species of fossil baleen whale, Fucaia buelli, found in the North Pacific Ocean 30-33 million years ago. The whale's transitional teeth suggest it was an active hunter that likely used suction to capture prey.
Researchers have reclassified a Canadian 'dinosaur' fossil as Dimetrodon borealis, featuring distinctive blade-like teeth. The discovery sheds new light on the animal's relationship to mammals and dinosaurs, and provides insight into its evolutionary history.
A new study suggests that up to 57% of Amazonian tree species are globally threatened, but protected areas and indigenous territories can protect most of the affected species. The study's findings highlight the importance of preserving these critical ecosystems.
A recent study reveals that over 50% of tropical plant specimens are likely to be incorrectly named, raising concerns about the reliability of biodiversity data. Researchers estimate it takes £500 to revise a species, suggesting a feasible solution to address this issue.
A new study reveals that up to half of the world's natural history specimens may have incorrect names, which can hinder biologists' work in fields like evolution and conservation. The researchers suggest that digitalised specimens and DNA sequencing can improve naming accuracy when integrated with taxonomic projects.
Researchers discovered that disruptive camouflage evolved twice within the group, with the second origin occurring after a special leg lobe was re-evolved. The study analyzed 33 species and nearly 400 specimens, revealing similarities in developmental mechanisms controlling cryptic features.
The Peruvian government has designated a 3.3 million-acre Amazonian rainforest as a national park, home to thousands of plant and animal species. The creation of the park marks the culmination of 10 years of conservation efforts by The Field Museum and numerous organizations.
Researchers unveil two archaic aquatic carnivorous amphibian species from northeastern Brazil, shedding light on animal dispersal during the Permian period. The discoveries reveal a previously unknown geographic gap in knowledge about ancient life.
A new species of whirligig beetle has been discovered in Alabama's Conecuh National Forest, identified by PhD student Grey Gustafson and entomologist Dr. Robert Sites. The newly described species, Dineutus shorti, is the first to be found in the US since 1991.
A long-term study on a rooftop in Copenhagen reveals that climate change is altering the local insect community, with specialized species being more sensitive to temperature increases. The research found that some species are moving northwards in Europe, while others are being squeezed out of their range.
Paleontologists discover two new transitional species of duckbilled dinosaurs with intermediate characteristics, suggesting a shift in growth patterns and development over time. The findings provide insights into the evolution of hadrosaurid dinosaurs, highlighting the importance of heterochrony in understanding evolutionary processes.
A new fossil discovery of an adolescent Tyrannosaurus rex fills a critical gap in the species' growth stages, supporting research on its evolution. The find, named 'Jane', shows features intermediate between juvenile and adult T. rex, resolving decades-long debate.
A team of scientists has unearthed a 2-foot-long, 76-million-year-old fossil of an extinct turtle species with a unique pig-like snout, providing valuable insights into the evolution of turtles. The discovery sheds light on the impact of climate change and rising sea levels on ancient ecosystems.
Researchers analyzed a Van Gogh painting using X-rays to determine the type of chrome yellow used. They found that lighter shades were more susceptible to degradation and darkened over time.
A well-preserved 48-million-year-old horse-like fetus was discovered near Frankfurt, Germany, revealing significant details about the fossil record of a placental mammal. The study suggests that the reproductive system of early horses may have been highly developed during the Paleocene epoch.
Scientists have discovered a new genus and species of shrew rat on Sulawesi Island in Indonesia, featuring an extremely large nose, long hind legs, and unusual dental characteristics. The Hog-nosed rat is genetically distinct from other rodents and has a weak jaw musculature, indicating a diet that does not require vigorous chewing.
Scientists have discovered a new species of the marine mammal group Desmostylia, which went extinct 23 million years ago. The new fossils reveal that desmos were unique in their diet and eating habits, using powerful muscles to suck vegetation from coastal bottoms.
Two new frog species have been discovered in the Raja Ampat Islands of New Guinea, characterized by their unique advertisement calls and morphological features. The specimens were found to be hermaphrodites, possessing both male and female reproductive systems.
A new report by the University of Washington reveals 253 known fish species living in the Salish Sea region, including some newly added and removed species. The comprehensive survey represents the first thorough analysis of Salish Sea fishes in 35 years.
Researchers have described a new hadrosaur species, Ugrunaaluk kuukpikensis, which grew up to 30 feet long and lived in darkness for months during the Cretaceous Period. The discovery provides evidence of a distinct, polar fauna in what is now northern Alaska.
Researchers found that technology tools are more helpful when used separately, rather than together, in virtual museums. Participants preferred tools that offered agency and control, while novices appreciated a variety of options.
A reexamination of digger wasps in Australia has led to the discovery of 11 new species, bringing the total count to 34. The study, published in ZooKeys, provides an updated identification key and morphological characteristics for each species.
A University of Houston researcher is using brain activity tracking to study the connections between art and science, with a goal of improving creativity and understanding human emotion. The project involves artist Jo Ann Fleischhauer and uses advanced headset technology to track brain activity as she creates art.
New calculations indicate that polar bears can survive on land-based food sources, such as caribou and snow goose eggs, to avoid starvation due to ice melt. The research found that these alternative food sources provide enough calories for bears to sustain themselves during extended stays on land.