Bird flu reaches the Antarctic region, posing a threat to isolated bird populations. Mummified mice found on Andean volcanoes challenge assumptions about vertebrate survival in extreme conditions. Chimpanzees in Uganda are experiencing menopause, a phenomenon thought to be unique to humans and some whales. Geophysicist uses seismic activity on Mars to uncover the composition of its core.
The highly infectious variant of avian influenza, H5N1, has reached the remote Bird Island in the South Atlantic, posing challenges for scientists in managing the outbreak and safeguarding diverse bird populations.
Chimpanzees, like humans, also experience menopause, challenging previous assumptions and providing insights into the evolution of menopause in humans and ancient hominin ancestors.
Deep dives
Bird Island's Battle with H5N1 Bird Flu
The H5N1 bird flu strain, which has been spreading globally, has reached Bird Island in the remote South Atlantic. The British Antarctic Survey has confirmed deaths among brown skuas due to the virus. The logistics of conducting research and managing the outbreak in such a remote location pose significant challenges for scientists. As the virus continues to spread to different species, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of research staff while monitoring the impact on the island's diverse bird populations.
Mice Found in Extreme Conditions of the Andes
Researchers have discovered mice living in the highest peaks of the Andes, defying the extreme cold and low oxygen levels found in the austere landscape. These mice have been found at elevations that were previously considered uninhabitable. They can survive in diverse environments, ranging from the mountains to the coast. The mice feed mainly on seeds and plant material, but also incorporate lichen into their diet. The presence of equal numbers of males and females suggests the establishment of long-term populations in these extreme environments.
Chimpanzee Menopause and Evolution
Researchers studying chimpanzees in East Africa have discovered that, like humans, chimpanzees also experience menopause. This finding challenges previous assumptions that menopause occurred only in humans and a few species of toothed whales. The study suggests that the survival of post-reproductive females in chimpanzee populations could be due to factors such as stable food supply and absence of predators. Understanding the evolution of menopause in chimpanzees provides valuable insights into the history of this trait in humans and our ancient hominin ancestors.
Molten Mantle and Martian Secrets
New analysis of seismic data obtained from NASA's InSight lander reveals that Mars has a molten silicate layer in its mantle, extending into the rocky core below. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the composition of Mars and its core's relationship to the surrounding material. The molten layer is believed to be denser than the surrounding mantle, possibly due to enrichment with heavy elements like iron. This finding opens up new possibilities for understanding the planet's geological history and the potential for future exploration.
Fear that the highly infectious variant of avian influenza, H5N1, would reach the Antarctic region and put isolated bird populations at risk has finally come to fruition as the first birds on Bird Island in the Atlantic Ocean have come down with the devastating illness. Science manager of the island, Ashley Bennison, explains the situation.
Then, from one extreme climate to another - mummified mice have been found on the summit of volcanoes across the Andes, raising questions as to the capacity for vertebrates to survive in extreme conditions.
Kevin Langergraber has been studying the Ngogo chimpanzee community in Uganda for over 20 years. Now, Kevin and colleague Brian Wood tell us how this group are experiencing something thought to be unique amongst humans (and some whales): menopause.
And, how geophysicist Amir Kahn used seismic activity on Mars to understand what the core of our neighbouring planet is made of.
Presenter: Roland Pease
Producer: Ella Hubber
Editor: Martin Smith
Production Co-ordinator: Jana Bennett-Holesworth
(Image: Wandering Albatross, Diomeda exulans, displaying at Cape Alexandra above Bird Sound and Bird Island in background South Georgia. Credit: Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
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