Science Alert
Catch up on the latest science news, from space and technology to life and environmental research- all the discoveries shaping our world today.
Updated: 2 hours 40 min ago
In 1953, North and South Korea established a demilitarised zone; decades later it is a 155-mile-long wildlife haven
The Korean Demilitarised Zone, known for its fortified borders, has unexpectedly emerged as a sanctuary for diverse wildlife. This area has largely evaded the effects of urbanization and agriculture, allowing rare species such as musk deer and leopards to flourish. Additionally, migratory birds have discovered refuge in the zone's wetlands and rice fields, thanks to ongoing conservation initiatives and eco-tourism efforts aimed at safeguarding this remarkable ecosystem.
Worms turn human waste into compost, but parasitic eggs can survive the process
Research indicates that tiger worms did not decompose Ascaris eggs present in faecal waste during lab trials. The eggs remained intact and capable of survival following prolonged exposure to the worms. A majority of the eggs were discovered within the coir layer of the biodigesters. As a result, the produced vermicompost and effluent must not be deemed safe for farming, necessitating additional testing for products from tiger worm toilets.
Scientists fooled 11 bat species with fake water covered in clear plastic
Bats often confuse smooth artificial surfaces for water through their echolocation abilities. Researchers discovered that multiple bat species, including those still inexperienced with water, persistently tried to drink from these misleading surfaces. This intriguing behavior underscores the significant role of echolocation in shaping bats' environmental perceptions and suggests that artificial surfaces can emit deceptive acoustic cues that alter their natural behaviour.
