Author: Laura Baisas

The coral Iridogorgia magnispiralis. Deep-sea octocorals like this are known to be bioluminescent. NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research, Deepwater Wonders of WakeNew findings illuminate its origin story. The post Bioluminescence may have evolved 300 million years earlier than scientists previously thought appeared first on Popular Science…

A screenshot of one unidentified small hawkmoth unsuccessful visit to an orchid, recorded with a camera trap. Missouri Botanical GardenTheir nectar spurs are 13 inches long and stands out compared to the flower’s dainty petals. The post ‘Spectacular’ new orchid species is pollinated by moths appeared first on Popular Science…

Apes began to lose their tails as the group evolved away from Old World monkeys between 20 and 25 million years ago. Deposit PhotosCRISPR helps scientists pinpoint the genes that may have led to tail loss about 25 million years ago. The post Why we don’t have tails appeared first on Popular Science…

The stone tool was glued into a handle with an adhesive that is made of liquid bitumen, with the addition of 55 percent ochre. It is no longer sticky and can be handled easily. Patrick Schmidt/University of TübingenStone Age tools show evidence of a cognitive process that is present in humans today…

Distinguishing characteristics of Skywalker hoolock gibbons compared to other gibbons include thinner eyebrows, a black or brown beard instead of a white one, and incomplete white face rings on the females, like this adult. Peng-Fei FanThese endangered primates live in Myanmar and China. The post Scientists tracked the love songs of Skywalker gibbons to find