http://dsc.discovery.com/news/news.html News on the planet earth from Discovery. en-us 2007 Discovery Communications Inc. Wed, Nov 4 2009 14:04:40 EST 60 http://dsc.discovery.com/tv-schedules/gallery/logos/dsc.gif http://dsc.discovery.com 60 46 Thousands of underground coal fires ooze greenhouse gases through cracks in the ground. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/11/04/coal-fires-pollution.html Thousands of underground coal fires are burning out of control, oozing greenhouse gases through cracks in the ground. Pollution from Underground Coal Fires Tallied Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20091104083030 Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:30:30 EST AP Photo/State Div. of Environmental Protection | A tree frog and a mudfish are among the more than 17,000 species threatened by extinction. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/11/03/at-risk-species.html A rare tree frog, a mudfish and lizards are among the more than 17,000 species threatened by extinction, according to a leading environmental group. Over 17,000 Animals Near Extinction Frank Jordans, Associated Press earth 20091103190000 Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST Tim Laman/Brad Wilson | The Kilimanjaro glaciers are shrinking, as the ice at their edges melts due to global warming. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/11/03/kilimanjaro-snow.html The Kilimanjaro glaciers are shrinking, as the ice at their edges melts due to global warming. Snows of Kilimanjaro May Soon Be Lost Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20091103110000 Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST Getty Images | Albatross chicks are dining on a massive, floating garbage patch in the Pacific. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/11/03/albatross-plastics.html Albatross chicks are dining on a massive, floating garbage patch in the Pacific. Remote Albatrosses Feed on Ocean Garbage Patch Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20091103070000 Tue, 03 Nov 2009 07:00:00 EST U.S. Department of the Interior/U.S. Geological Survey | A newly launched satellite will track the planet's water cycle and how it's changed by warming. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/11/02/salty-oceans-satellite.html A newly launched European satellite will track the planet's water cycle and how it is changed by global warming. Probe to Track Warming's Effects on Water Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20091102141500 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:15:00 EST ESA | Regular changes in air pressure -- minute disturbances -- can trigger landslides. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/11/02/landslides-air-pressure.html Regular changes in air pressure -- minute disturbances -- can trigger landslides, new research has shown. Air Pressure Changes Trigger Landslides Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20091102091500 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 09:15:00 EST William Schulz/USGS | A depressed shipping economy is helping invasive species spread around the world's oceans. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/29/invasive-species-economy.html The depressed shipping economy is helping invasive species spread around the world's oceans and waterways. Economic Crisis Could Spread Invasive Species Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20091029094500 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 09:45:00 EST AP Photo/John L. Russell | Treating pools with moss can not only keep water clean, but also significantly reduce maintenance costs. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/28/swimming-pool-moss.html Treating swimming pools with moss can not only keep water clean, but also significantly reduce maintenance costs. Swimming Pools Kept Clean by Going Green Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20091028173000 Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:30:00 EST iStockPhoto | Living near volcanoes exposes people to subtle lung damage due to volcanic air pollution. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/28/vog-respiratory-volcano.html Living near volcanoes doesn't only expose people to mudslides and fiery destruction, but also more subtle lung damage. Volcanic Air Pollution Chokes Locals Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20091028083000 Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:30:00 EST NASA | Zinc may be creeping into the water supply, which could have an affect on brain function. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/27/drinking-water-zinc.html Zinc may be creeping into the water supply, which could have an affect on brain function. Drinking Water Wells Contaminated with Zinc Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20091027171500 Mon, 27 Oct 2009 17:15:00 EST Getty Images | The Cascadia thrust fault, one of the most dangerous and powerful on Earth, has Seattle in its crosshairs. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/27/megaquake-seattle.html The Cascadia thrust fault, one of the most dangerous and powerful on Earth, has Seattle in its crosshairs. Megaquake Looms Over Seattle Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20091027160000 Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST Getty Images | Efforts to save coral reefs are so bleak that there are now plans to freeze coral samples to preserve them. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/26/coral-reefs.html Efforts to save coral reefs are so bleak that there are now plans to freeze coral samples to preserve them. 'Coral Bank' Created to Preserve Threatened Reefs Barbara Miller, ABC Science Online earth 20091026171500 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 17:15:00 EST Getty Images | NASA tries to debunk fears spread by the marketing campaign for the apocalyptic film, "2012." http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/22/nasa-debunks-2012.html NASA tries to debunk fears spread by the marketing campaign for the apocalyptic film, "2012." World Not Ending in 2012, Says NASA Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20091022141500 Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:15:00 EST AP Photo/Gero Breloer | Americans have grown increasingly skeptical of climate change, according to a Pew poll. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/22/climate-change-poll.html Americans have grown increasingly skeptical of climate change, according to a Pew poll. Americans Cool on Global Warming: Poll Dina Cappiello, Associated Press earth 20091022134530 Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:45:30 EST Getty Images | A new study challenges the giant impact hypothesis, which suggested the moon formed from a cosmic collision. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/22/moon-earth-formation.html A new study challenges the giant impact hypothesis, which suggested the moon formed from a cosmic collision. Controversial Moon Origin Theory Rewrites History Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20091022070000 Thu, 22 Oct 2009 07:00:00 EST NASA | The 6.4 million tons of rubbish in the world's oceans leads to huge expenses, a report finds. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/21/garbage-oceans-cost.html The 6.4 million tons of rubbish in the world's oceans leads to huge expenses to fishing and boat industries, a report finds. Ocean Garbage Causing $1 Billion in Damage Nicky Phillips, ABC Science Online earth 20091021133000 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 13:30:00 EST iStockPhoto | Arctic lands and oceans store up to a quarter of the carbon absorbed each year. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/21/arctic-carbon-warming.html Arctic lands and oceans store up to a quarter of the carbon absorbed globally each year, new research shows. Melting Arctic Could Unleash Vast CO2 Stores Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20091021100030 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 10:00:30 EST Getty Images | The rise of flowering plants altered the course of life on Earth. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/21/flowers-rainforest.html The rise of flowering plants altered the course of life on Earth. Flower Power: Blooming Plants Spawned Forests Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20091021070000 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 07:00:00 EST Jochen Schlenker/Getty Images | New estimates suggest sperm whales' feeding habits help take in carbon. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/20/sperm-whales-carbon.html New estimates suggest sperm whales' feeding habits help take in carbon. Sperm Whales Act as Carbon Sink Susan Milius, Science News earth 20091020110030 Tue, 20 Oct 2009 11:00:30 EST AP Photo/Guam Variety News, Chris Bangs | A massive tsunami could devastate the Pacific Northwest if precautions aren't taken. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/20/tsunami-pacific-northwest.html A massive tsunami could devastate the Pacific Northwest if precautions aren't taken, experts say. Tsunami Threat Looms Over Pacific Northwest Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20091020080000 Tue, 20 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | An impact crater in India suggests a meteor strike there may have killed off the dinosaurs. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/19/shiva-crater-dinosaurs.html The largest impact crater ever discovered on Earth suggests another massive impact may have had a hand in killing off the dinosaurs. Indian Crater Hints of Another Dino-Killer Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20091019094500 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 09:45:00 EST Sankar Chatterjee, Texas Tech University | Soil-dwelling creatures shrank by up to 50 percent during an ancient warming event. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/19/animals-shrink-warming.html Even soil-inhabiting creatures shrank by up to 50 percent during an ancient extreme warming event. Sub-Soil Creatures Shrank With Warming Robert Lamb, HowStuffWorks.com earth 20091019093030 Tue, 19 Oct 2009 09:30:30 EST iStockPhoto | Seismic noise could shed light on whether warming has caused an uptick in hurricanes. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/16/seismic-noise-hurricanes.html Hurricane history may be recorded in Earth's seismic noise and could shed light on whether warming has caused an uptick in storms. Hurricane History Recorded in Earth's Noise Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20091016091530 Fri, 16 Oct 2009 09:15:30 EST Getty Images | North Pole summers will be ice-free within 20 to 30 years, a polar research team says. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/15/arctic-ice-summer.html North Pole summers will be ice-free within 20 to 30 years, a polar research team says. Arctic Ice Cap to Vanish During Summers Elodie Mazein, AFP earth 20091015120030 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:00:30 EST Getty Images | Ancient nuclear reactors may have cooked microbes trying to get a foothold on early Earth. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/14/microbes-nuclear-earth.html Ancient nuclear reactors buried in lake and shallow ocean sediments may have cooked early microbes trying to get a foothold on early Earth. Natural Nukes May Have Crippled Early Life Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20091014110030 Wed, 14 Oct 2009 11:00:30 EST Getty Images | Bridges made from recycled plastic are not only functional, but also cost-effective. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/13/plastic-bridges-tank.html Bridges made from recycled plastic are not only functional, but also cost-effective. Recycled Plastic Bridges Can Support Tanks Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20091013130000 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST Lance Cpl. Kelsey J. Green/U.S. Marine Corps | Melting glaciers in India threatens the water supply of millions of people. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/13/india-kashmir-glaciers.html Melting glaciers in India threatens the water supply of millions of people. Glacier Melt in India Endangers Local Population Aijaz Hussain, Associated Press earth 20091013111030 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 11:10:30 EST Yawar Nazir/Getty Images | Pollutants trapped in glaciers decades ago are re-entering the environment as the ice melts. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/13/glaciers-melt-pollutants.html Pollutants trapped in glaciers in decades past are re-entering the environment as the ice melts. Bygone Pollutants Resurface as Glaciers Melt Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20091013093030 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | Mayans emphatically deny that 2012 marks the end of the world. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/12/2012-doomsday.html Mayans emphatically deny that 2012 marks the end of the world. 2012 Doomsday Not Likely, Mayans Insist Mark Stevenson, Associated Press earth 20091012141500 Mon, 12 Oct 2009 14:15:00 EST AP Photo/Moises Castillo | Aggressive action to cut emissions may change the odds of catastrophic change from global warming. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/12/global-warming-odds.html Aggressive action to cut emissions may change the odds of catastrophic change from global warming. Climate Action May Shift Warming Odds Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20091012123000 Mon, 12 Oct 2009 12:30:00 EST Getty Images | A satellite will measure Earth's uneven gravitational pull in an effort to understand climate. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/12/gravity-map-earth.html A recently deployed satellite will measure Earth's uneven gravitational pull in an effort to understand climate. Gravity-Mapping Satellite to Help Predict Climate Robert Lamb, HowStuffWorks.com earth 20091012104500 Mon, 12 Oct 2009 10:45:00 EST ESA | A recent cluster of seven big quakes has some wondering if quakes trigger more quakes. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/09/earthquake-swarm.html A series of seven major earthquakes in one recent 24-hour period has seismologists wondering if quakes trigger more quakes. When Quakes Swarm: Are Quakes Contagious? Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20091009094500 Fri, 09 Oct 2009 09:45:00 EST USGS | Dust storms in Australia led to a boom in microscopic life, validating ocean fertilization plans. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/07/dust-storms-boom.html Recent dust storms in Australia led to a boom in microscopic life, validating ocean fertilization plans. Australian Dust Storms Feed Life Explosion Dani Cooper, ABC Science Online earth 20091007140000 Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST AP Photo/Rob Griffith | Green roofs not only reduce heating and AC costs, they can also sop up greenhouse gases. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/06/green-roofs-carbon.html Green roofs are a popular way to reduce heating and AC costs and new research shows they can also sop up greenhouse gases. Green Roofs Shown to Offset Warming Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20091006090030 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 09:00:30 EST Green Roofhires | Volcanic eruptions may have brought Earth out of the last ice age. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/06/volcano-ice-age.html Volcanic eruptions may have brought Earth out of the last ice age, according to a new study. Volcanoes Defrosted Ice Age Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20091006070000 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 07:00:00 EST Getty Images | A fungus likely ravaged dead trees and plants following the world's worst extinction. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/10/02/fungus-mass-extinction.html Forget meteor impacts, a fungus likely ravaged dead trees and plants following the world's worst extinction event, research shows. Fungus Feasted Off World's Worst Extinction Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20091002092000 Fri, 02 Oct 2009 09:20:00 EST iStockPhoto | A massive tsunami has claimed at least 100 lives on islands off the South Pacific. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/30/tsunami-earthquake.html A massive tsunami hurled by a powerful earthquake has claimed at least 100 lives on islands off the South Pacific. South Pacific Coasts Reeling From Tsunami Keni Lesa and Fili Sagapolutele, Associated Press earth 20090930101500 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 10:15:00 EST AP Photo/Ardie Roque | A magnitude 8.3 earthquake struck Samoa, triggering a tsunami. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/29/earthquake-tsunami-samoa.html A magnitude 8.3 earthquake struck Samoa, triggering a tsunami as coastal residents fled to higher ground. Massive Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Near Samoa AFP earth 20090929160000 Tue, 29 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST Getty Images | A catalog of all known plants and animals finds that 10 percent of major species are at risk. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/29/species-census.html A catalog of all known plants and animals finds that 10 percent of major species are at risk. Species Census Reveals Extinction Threat AFP earth 20090929110000 Tue, 29 Sep 2009 11:00:00 EST Getty Images | A fungal infection eliminating rare species means strains on the food web and tourism. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/29/frogs-biodiversity-loss.html Frogs in Central America are becoming increasingly homogeneous as a fungal infection eliminates rare or unusual species. Fungus Hitting Frogs Hard Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090929091500 Tue, 29 Sep 2009 09:15:00 EST Roberto Brenes | Ash from an ancient supereruption would have made it difficult for human and animals to eat. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/25/supervolcano-teeth.html Ash from an ancient supervolcano eruption would have made it difficult for human and animals to chew their food. Supervolcano Eruption Was Tough on Teeth Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090925160000 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST Getty Images | More than 160 new species from the Mekong region are at risk of extinction. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/25/climate-change-mekong.html More than 160 new species from the Mekong region are at risk of extinction. Climate Change Threatens Mekong Species AFP earth 20090925140000 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 14:00:00 EST Lee Grismer/WWF Greater Mekong | Current environmental trends may lead to a cycle of global catastrophic change. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/24/earth-tipping-point.html Current environmental trends may lead to a cycle of global catastrophic change. Earth's Climate Outside 'Safe Operating Space' Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090924070000 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 07:00:00 EST NASA/Visible Earth | Melting along two major ice sheets is accelerating and is in a self-feeding loop. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/23/greenland-antarctica.html Melting along two major ice sheets is accelerating and is in a self-feeding loop. Greenland, Antarctica Ice Melt Accelerates Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20090923160000 Mon, 23 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST NASA | A recent look at monarch butterfly populations shows a big drop in the number of females. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/23/female-butterflies.html A recent look at monarch butterfly populations shows an alarming decline in the number of females over the last 30 years. Female Monarch Butterflies Disappearing Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20090923103000 Wed, 23 Sep 2009 10:30:00 EST Richard Ellis/Getty Images | Facing climate change pressures, Yellowstone's grizzlies get threatened status. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/22/grizzly-bear-threatened.html A federal court orders that Grizzly bears in Yellowstone National Park be placed back on the threatened species list. Yellowstone Grizzlies Back on Threatened List Matthew Brown, Associated Press earth 20090922100000 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 10:00:00 EST Kim Keating, USGS | An extensive imaging project may give scientists their first look at Earth's coasts on a global scale. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/17/space-station-coasts.html An extensive imaging project may give scientists their first look at Earth's coasts on a global scale. New Space Station Tech Maps Earth's Coasts Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20090917134500 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 13:45:00 EST Getty Images | A medium-sized temperature increase may cause Greenland's ice sheet to melt at an alarming rate. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/17/greenland-icesheet.html A medium-sized temperature increase may cause Greenland's ice sheet to melt at an alarming rate. Greenland Ice Sheet's Disappearing Act AFP earth 20090917113000 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:30:00 EST Getty Images | An Arctic goose known to winter in sunny Mexico now stays put in Alaska during winter. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/16/birds-migration-warming.html An Arctic goose known to winter in sunny Mexico are finding the planet has warmed enough that they can stay in Alaska year-round. Arctic Geese Skip Migration as Planet Warms Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090916101500 Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:15:00 EST USGS | Showerheads can harbor harmful bacteria -- and cleaning them doesn't help. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/14/showerhead-pathogens.html Showerheads offer warm, wet places for bacteria to grow -- and cleaning your showerhead with bleach doesn't help. Dangerous Pathogens Live in Showerheads Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20090914150000 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST Leah Feazel | China is the world's largest CO2 emitter, but it's also the fastest growing market for wind power. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/10/china-wind-power.html China is the world's largest carbon dioxide emitter, but it's also the fastest growing market for wind power. Could Wind Power China's Energy Future? Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20090910140000 Thu, 10 Sep 2009 14:00:00 EST Aaron Cobbett | As sea ice melts, thousands of walruses congregate on Alaska's coast. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/10/walruses-ice.html In a sign that sea ice is melting, thousands of walruses congregate on Alaska's coast. Melting Ice Forces Walruses to Alaska Shore Dan Joling, Associated Press earth 20090910094500 Thu, 10 Sep 2009 09:45:00 EST US Fish and Wildlife Service | The newly-decoded genome of the potato blight pest reveals it's a flexible foe. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/09/potato-blight.html The newly-decoded genome of the potato blight pest reveals it has an impressive genetic toolkit. Potato Blight Genome Reveals Wily Pest Richard Ingham, AFP earth 20090909151500 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 15:15:00 EST Getty Images | Climate change could drag down a cloud of poisonous ozone gas, according to a new study. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/09/ozone-climate-change.html Climate change could drag down a cloud of poisonous ozone gas, according to a new study. Warming Brings Poisonous Ozone Down to Earth Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090909080000 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST NASA | A flame retardant once banned for use in children's pajamas is still being used in products including foam in a baby stroller, a nursing pillow and a changing table pad. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/08/flame-retardants.html A flame retardant once banned for use in children's pajamas is still being used in child products. Flame Retardants Found in Children's Products Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20090908094000 Tue, 08 Sep 2009 09:40:00 EST Getty Images | Ribbon seals are under threat from global warming and require protection, according to advocates. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/03/ribbon-seal-protection.html Ribbon seals are under threat from global warming and require protection, according to advocates. Ribbon Seal Protection Sought by Activists Dan Joling, Associated Press earth 20090903163000 Thu, 03 Sep 2009 16:30:00 EST AP Photo | The Arctic is getting warmer, reversing a cooling trend for nearly two millennia. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/03/arctic-warming.html The Arctic is warmer than it's been in 2,000 years, reversing course on a long-standing cooling trend. Arctic Temperatures Highest in 2,000 Years Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20090903150000 Thu, 03 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST NOAA | Amphibians and other wetland animals may benefit from your golf game. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/03/golf-courses-animals.html Amphibians and other wetland animals may benefit from your golf game. Golf Courses May Protect Wetland Animals Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20090903070000 Thu, 03 Sep 2009 07:00:00 EST Getty Images | Gulls exposed to oil pollution are found to have smaller red spots on their bills. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/02/seagull-pollution.html Gulls exposed to oil pollution are found to have smaller red spots on their bills than their healthy counterparts, thanks to lower levels of a key enzyme in their blood. Spot on Gulls' Beaks Can Indicate Poisons Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090902094500 Wed, 02 Sep 2009 09:45:00 EST Getty Images | Without action on global warming, geo-engineering may be the only way to cool Earth. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/01/geoengineering-climate.html Without action on global warming, geo-engineering may be the only way to cool Earth, according to a new report. Geo-Engineering May Be Planet's Last Hope Richard Ingham, AFP earth 20090901151500 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 15:15:00 EST Brian Lawrence/Getty Images | Rats are devouring Hawaii's extraordinary range of snail species. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/01/snails-hawaii.html Hawaii once hosted an extraordinary range of snail species, but invasive rats are devouring them. Rats Devastating Native Hawaiian Snails Susan Milius, Science News earth 20090901093000 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 09:30:00 EST Nature Conservancy | Efforts to protect rapidly declining freshwater fish populations may not be enough. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/01/freshwater-fish-decline.html Efforts to protect rapidly declining freshwater fish populations may not be enough. Freshwater Fish Populations See Rapid Decline Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090901010100 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 01:01:00 EST iStockPhoto | Carbon uptake in oceans could potentially be much higher than previously thought. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/09/01/oceans-carbon-absorb.html Carbon uptake in oceans could potentially be much higher than previously thought, a new study finds. Oceans Could Absorb Much More CO2 Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090901010030 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 01:00:30 EST Getty Images | A mysterious weather pattern over the Indian Ocean may help hurricane prediction. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/31/hurricane-prediction.html A wave of mysterious weather that pops up monthly over the Indian Ocean may help hurricane prediction. Weather Pulses Help Predict Hurricanes Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090831093000 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | The Great Pacific Garbage Patch hosts much more debris than scientists expected. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/28/pacific-garbage.html The Great Pacific Garbage Patch hosts much more debris than scientists expected. Great Pacific Garbage Patch Swells Michelle Rindels, Associated Press earth 20090828123000 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 12:30:00 EST NOAA Marine Debris Program | An aphid-like insect is found farther north in Calif. than it has ever been seen before. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/28/citrus-crop-pest.html An aphid-like insect is found farther north in California than it has ever been seen before. Fast-Spreading Bug Threatens Calif. Citrus Michelle Rindels, Associated Press earth 20090828104500 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 10:45:00 EST University of Florida, Michael Rogers | A close cousin of the acacia tree proves a valuable fertilizing tool for African farmers. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/28/tree-agriculture.html A close cousin of the acacia tree proves a valuable fertilizing tool for African farmers. African Tree Makes Soils Rich for Crops Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20090828090000 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:00:00 EST World Agroforestry Centre | Vast stretches of ocean where very little life can survive, have become more extreme. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/27/ocean-deserts.html Vast stretches of the ocean where nutrients are scarce, and very little life can survive, have become more extreme. Ocean 'Deserts' Becoming More Lifeless Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090827090000 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 09:00:00 EST NOAA | Leftover watermelons could be converted into clean, renewable ethanol fuel. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/26/watermelon-fuel.html Leftover watermelons could be converted into up to 2.5 million gallons of clean, renewable ethanol fuel every year, claim researchers. Watermelon Juice: The New Fuel? Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090826150000 Wed, 26 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EST Getty Images | Tiny termites listen for the chewing noises of their larger, deadly cousins. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/26/termites-eavesdrop.html Tiny termites are observed listening for the chewing noises of their larger, deadly cousins when cohabiting the same tree. Termites Eavesdrop to Avoid Bullies Dani Cooper, ABC Science Online earth 20090826110000 Wed, 26 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST Patrick Gleeson | Spikes in radioactivity in groundwater may help scientists find hidden faults. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/25/groundwater-faults.html Spikes in the tiny amounts of radioactivity in groundwater may help scientists find dangerous hidden faults. Groundwater Radon Points to Dangerous Faults Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090825093000 Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | Bacteria and wastewater can not only purify water, but also produce electricity. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/25/bacteria-water.html Bacteria and wastewater can not only purify water, but also produce electricity. Bacteria Desalinate Water, Generate Power Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20090825080000 Tue, 25 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | Increasing acidity in Alaska's oceans threatens its productive marine food chain. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/24/alaska-ocean-acidic.html Increasing acidity in Alaska's oceans threatens one of the most productive marine food chains in the world. Alaska's Oceans Turning Acidic Dan Joling, Associated Press earth 20090824141530 Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:15:30 EST iStockPhoto | Melting ice and warming oceans will shift Earth's axis as sea levels rise, a new study has found. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/24/oceans-earth-pole.html Melting ice and warming oceans will shift Earth's axis as sea levels rise, a new study has found. Warming Oceans May Shift Earth's Pole Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090824080000 Mon, 24 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST NASA Earth Observatory | Traffic noise is drowning out the seductive croaks of amorous male frogs. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/21/traffic-frogs.html Traffic noise is drowning out the seductive croaks of amorous male frogs. Traffic Puts a Damper on Frogs' Sex Lives Rod McGuirk, Associated Press earth 20090821110000 Fri, 21 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | A new coating promises that grease stains can be wiped away with plain old water. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/21/countertop-grease.html A new coating promises that grease stains can be wiped away with plain old water. Grease? New Coating Comes Clean With Water Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20090821074500 Fri, 21 Aug 2009 07:45:00 EST iStockPhoto | The world's oceans are hotter than ever, threatening coral reefs possibly aiding hurricanes. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/20/ocean-temperature.html The world's oceans are hotter than ever, posing a threat to coral reefs and potentially helping hurricanes. World's Oceans Set Temperature Record Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20090820170000 Thu, 20 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | This new type of rice can grow longer stems to cope with higher water levels from flooding. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/20/rice-flooding.html This new type of rice can grow longer stems to cope with higher water levels from flooding. High-Yield, Deep Water Rice Developed Eric Talmadge, Associated Press earth 20090820132000 Thu, 20 Aug 2009 13:20:00 EST Martin Harvey | Plastic garbage in the oceans decomposes fairly quickly, but it leaches chemicals in the process. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/20/plastic-ocean-decompose.html The billions of pounds of plastic garbage in the oceans decompose fairly quickly, research finds, but it leaches chemicals in the process. Plastic in Oceans Leaches Chemicals Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090820084500 Thu, 20 Aug 2009 08:45:00 EST iStockPhoto | Twenty-nine species of plants and animals may need federal protection. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/18/endangered-species.html Twenty-nine species of plants and animals may need federal protection. Endangered Species List May Grow Longer Mike Stark, Associated Press earth 20090818140000 Tue, 18 Aug 2009 14:00:00 EST National Park Service | A 23,000-square-mile deep-sea coral reef tract is being proposed for protection. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/18/corals-protection.html A 23,000-square-mile coral reef tract is being proposed for protection from potential damage by deep-sea commercial fishing. Deep-Sea Coral Reef May Get Protection Brian Skoloff, Associated Press earth 20090818100000 Tue, 18 Aug 2009 10:00:00 EST Steve W. Ross/UNCW | Mint, thyme and other spices offer a new alternative in organic pest-control. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/17/killer-spices.html Mint, thyme and other spices offer a new alternative in organic pest-control. Killer Spices Keep Pests at Bay Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090817133000 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 13:30:00 EST iStockPhoto | Air pollution wafting in from overseas kills 6,600 people in North America every year. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/14/air-pollution-overseas.html Tiny particles of air pollution wafting in from overseas kills 6,600 people in North America every year, research shows. Air Pollution Travels, Kills Thousands Annually Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090814123000 Fri, 14 Aug 2009 12:30:00 EST Getty Images | Wobbles in the Earth's tilt caused warming episodes in between prehistoric ice ages. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/14/earth-wobble-climate.html Regular wobbles in the Earth's tilt caused global warming episodes in between prehistoric ice ages. Wobbling Earth Triggers Climate Change Annabel McGilvray, ABC Science Online earth 20090814111500 Fri, 14 Aug 2009 11:15:00 EST Getty Images | Mosquitoes brought in by tourists are creating an "ecological disaster" in the Galapagos. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/12/galapagos-tourism.html Mosquitoes brought in by tourists are creating an "ecological disaster" in the Galapagos. Galapagos Ecosystem Threatened by Tourism AFP earth 20090812104500 Wed, 12 Aug 2009 10:45:00 EST Paul Souders | French winemakers are using satellite imagery to improve their grape harvests. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/11/wine-harvest-satellite.html French winegrowers are reaping the benefits of satellite imagery to improve their grape harvests, in a fusion of cutting-edge technology and the ancient art of winemaking. Satellites Track, Improve French Wine Crop Boris Cambreleng, AFP earth 20090811154500 Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:45:00 EST NOAA | U.N. negotiators aim to forge a successor to the Kyoto Protocol. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/10/climate-emissions.html U.N. negotiators aim to forge a successor to the Kyoto Protocol. Emissions Pledges Kick Off Climate Talks Arthur Max, Associated Press earth 20090810150000 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EST Getty Images | Over 350 Himalayan species have been discovered -- and their habitats are under threat. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/10/himalaya-species.html More than 350 new species have been discovered in Himalayas -- and their habitat is under threat. New Himalaya Species Include Flying Frog Claire Cozens, AFP earth 20090810113000 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 11:30:00 EST Totul Bortamuli/WWF Nepal | Larger, faster mosquitoes created in sewage can spread dangerous diseases. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/10/mosquito-sewage.html Larger, faster mosquitoes created in sewage can spread dangerous diseases. Sewage Breeds Bigger, Faster Mosquitoes Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090810093000 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 09:30:00 EST iStockPhoto | As the world heats up, wildfires will become common enough to affect the air we breathe. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/07/wildfire-air-quality.html As the world heats up, wildfires will become common enough to affect the air we breathe. Wildfires May Impact Air Quality, Damage Lungs Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090807080000 Fri, 07 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | Climate experts aren't impressed by the effect "cash for clunkers" on emissions. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/05/cash-clunkers.html Climate experts aren't impressed by the effect "cash for clunkers" on emissions. 'Cash for Clunkers' Barely Makes a Dent Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20090805194500 Wed, 05 Aug 2009 19:45:00 EST Justin Sullivan/Getty Images | Rising seagull populations have wreaked havoc on salmon fisheries along the Pacific coast. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/04/seagulls-salmon.html Rising seagull populations have wreaked havoc on salmon fisheries along the Pacific coast of the U.S. Seagulls Menace Endangered Salmon Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090804090000 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 09:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | Dog domestication first began in Africa, not Asia, according to an extensive genetic study. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/03/dog-domestication.html Dog domestication first began in Africa, not Asia, according to an extensive genetic study. Dog Domestication Likely Began in Africa Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20090803170100 Mon, 03 Aug 2009 17:01:00 EST iStockPhoto | Elephant seals proved highly mobile when an ice sheet retreated 8,000 years ago. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/03/elephant-seals-climate.html Elephant seals proved highly mobile when an ice sheet retreated about 8,000 years ago -- could they adapt again? Elephant Seals Moved Fast With Climate Change Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090803093000 Mon, 03 Aug 2009 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | Mammoths were not likely wiped out by a comet or asteroid, a new study concludes. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/08/03/mammoth-extinction.html Mammoths were not likely wiped out by a comet or asteroid, a new study concludes. Mammoths Doomed by Hunting, Climate: Study Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090803090000 Mon, 03 Aug 2009 09:00:00 EST PLoS | Jellyfish pulsating through oceans could actually influence Earth's climate. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/29/jellyfish-climate-ocean.html Jellyfish pulsating through water could actually influence ocean currents, which play a huge role in Earth's climate. Jellyfish May Affect Climate by Stirring Oceans Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090729130000 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST K.Katija/J.Dabiri | A powerful toxin is not only threatening bee populations, but also the nation's food supply. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/29/bees-selenium.html A powerful toxin is not only threatening bee populations, but also the nation's food supply. Toxic Pollen, Nectar Could Sting Bees Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090729083000 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 08:30:00 EST AP Photo/Haraz N. Ghanbari | Oil can materialize in the crushing tectonic furnace underneath our planet's crust. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/27/oil-earth-mantle.html Oil can materialize in the crushing tectonic furnace underneath our planet's crust. Earth's Mantle: Untapped Oil Source? Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090727094500 Mon, 27 Jul 2009 09:45:00 EST A. Kolesnikov and V. Kutcherov | Warming effects from solar max have led to floods, droughts and other weather events. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/27/sun-weather.html Warming effects from solar max have led to floods, droughts and other weather events. Sun Creates El Nino-like Weather on Earth Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20090727084500 Mon, 27 Jul 2009 08:45:00 EST NASA/ESA | L.A. may be emitting as much as twice methane as previously estimated. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/23/methane-los-angeles.html Los Angeles may be emitting as much as twice the amount of methane as previously estimated. Methane Mystery: L.A. Emitting Twice as Much as Estimated Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090723123000 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:30:00 EST Getty Images | A massive earthquake has made New Zealand a bit bigger -- and closer to Australia. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/22/quake-australia-zealand.html A recent massive earthquake has made New Zealand a bit bigger -- and closer to Australia. Quake Nudges New Zealand Closer to Australia David Brooks, AFP earth 20090722130000 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST Getty Images | Fruit and nut crops in California are in danger of collapse as winters warm. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/22/fruit-nut-crops.html Fruit and nut crops in California's fertile Central Valley are in danger of collapse as winters warm. Winter Heat Threatens Calif. Fruit, Nut Crops Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090722104500 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:45:00 EST AP Photo/Gary Kazanjian | The numbers of black sheep are dwindling thanks to climate change. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/22/black-sheep-warming.html Black sheep's dark wool absorbs sunlight, helping them stay warm, but rising temperatures are diminishing that advantage. Warming Dooms Black Sheep Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090722091500 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 09:15:00 EST A. Ozgul/Science/AAAS | The appearance of an oily blob in Alaskan waters has raised a slew of questions. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/22/mystery-blob.html The sudden appearance of an oily, mystery blob in Alaskan waters has raised a slew of questions about its origin. Mystery Blob Leaves Scientists Puzzled Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090722081500 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 08:15:00 EST iStockPhoto | French scientists discover that most raindrops break up before hitting the ground. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/21/raindrops-burst-mid-fall.html French scientists discover that most raindrops break up before hitting the ground. Most Raindrops Burst Before Hitting the Ground AFP earth 20090721110000 Tue, 21 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST NASA | Smaller fish could have a significant impact on the food web and ecosystem. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/20/fish-climate-change.html Smaller fish could have a significant impact on the food web and ecosystem. Fish Shrink Due to Climate Change AFP earth 20090720183000 Mon, 20 Jul 2009 18:30:00 EST AP Photo/Thomas Haentzschel | Herbicides boost nutritional value of corn, new research suggests. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/20/herbicides-corn.html Herbicides get a bad rap for their environmental effects, but new research suggests they boost nutritional value of corn. Weed Killer May Make Corn More Nutritious Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090720152000 Mon, 20 Jul 2009 15:20:00 EST Getty Images | A rising tide of salts in rivers is sparking a mass exodus of wild herds on the Serengeti. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/20/serengeti-wildlife.html A rising tide of salts in rivers is sparking a mass exodus of wild herds on the Serengeti. Wildlife on Serengeti Migrate to Cleaner Water Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090720121500 Mon, 20 Jul 2009 12:15:00 EST iStockPhoto | Climate change may have a more gradual effect on ocean currents. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/16/ocean-current-shift.html Climate change may have a more gradual effect on ocean currents. Climate Changes May be Slower Than Expected AFP earth 20090716172000 Thu, 16 Jul 2009 17:20:00 EST AP Photo/John McConnico | Tourists are flocking to parks in poorer countries, but not in the United States. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/16/parks-attendance.html Tourists are flocking to parks in poorer countries, but not in the United States. National Park Attendance Rising in Poorer Countries Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090716133000 Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:30:00 EST iStockPhoto | The same toxins released from burning coal may have snuffed out Triassic forests. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/14/triassic-forest-noxious.html The same noxious compounds released from burning coal may have snuffed out Triassic forests. Toxins May Have Doomed Ancient Forests Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090714100000 Tue, 14 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EST NPS/PFMA/DOUG HENDERSON | Lightning releases phosphorous in soil that may have been early life's fast food. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/13/lightning-soil-life.html When lightning strikes the energy melts minerals and releases phosphorous that's easy fast food for microscopic life. Lightning May Have Helped Feed Early Life Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090713091500 Mon, 13 Jul 2009 09:15:00 EST Getty Images | Forecasters expect the effects of El Nino to strengthen in the next few months. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/09/el-nino-hurricanes.html Forecasters expect the effects of El Nino to strengthen in the next few months. El Nino Conditions Affect Weather Worldwide Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20090709163000 Thu, 09 Jul 2009 16:30:00 EST NASA | Found in the Negev Desert, desert rhubarb has developed its own irrigation system. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/09/desert-rhubarb.html Found in the Negev Desert, desert rhubarb has developed its own irrigation system. 'Desert Rhubarb' Harvests Water Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20090709130000 Thu, 09 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST Prof. Gidi Ne'eman, University of Haifa | The lifestyles of over a billion people are in jeopardy as the rain band shifts north. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/09/shifting-rain-band.html The lifestyles of more than a billion people are in jeopardy as the rain band shifts north. Shifting Rain Band Threatens Pacific Islands Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090709084500 Thu, 09 Jul 2009 08:45:00 EST iStockPhoto | Using rice husks as a concrete substitute could lead to a boom in green construction. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/07/rice-husks-concrete.html Using rice husks as a concrete substitute could lead to a boom in green construction. Rice Concrete Cuts Greenhouse Emissions Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090707073000 Mon, 07 Jul 2009 07:30:00 EST U.S. Food and Drug Administration | Landmark buildings across the United States are being revitalized by going green. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/06/green-landmark-buildings.html Landmark buildings across the United States are being revitalized by going green. Landmark Buildings Find New Life by Going Green Chris Kahn, Associated Press earth 20090706114500 Mon, 06 Jul 2009 11:45:00 EST AP Photo/Richard Drew | Why do blind faults shake harder when they break? Scientists finally find the answer. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/02/buried-faults-quake.html Why do deeply buried faults shake harder when they break? Scientists finally find the answer, with lessons that could help save lives. Solved: Why Blind Faults Make Big Quakes Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090702110000 Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST Getty Images | "Green" fireworks produce less smoke and use fewer toxins than other pyrotechnics. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/02/eco-friendly-fireworks.html "Green" fireworks produce less smoke and use fewer toxic metals than other pyrotechnics. Eco-Friendly Fireworks Offer Safer Pyrotechnics Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090702081000 Thu, 02 Jul 2009 08:10:00 EST iStockPhoto | Greenery likely helped save Earth from runaway cooling, research concludes. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/01/trees-earth-freeze.html Greenery likely helped save Earth from runaway cooling that would have encased the planet in ice, research concludes. Trees Buffered Earth From Iceball Fate AFP earth 20090701151500 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:15:00 EST Getty Images | A stash of fossil feathers from the extinct Moa reveal a wealth of information. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/01/moa-feathers-extinct.html A new stash of fossil feathers from the extinct Moa are revealing a wealth of information about the giant birds. Fossil Feathers Revealing Extinct Moa's True Colors Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090701133000 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 13:30:00 EST Rawlence et al. 2009 | Wild animals get cancer too and the disease is another conservation threat. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/07/01/wildlife-cancer.html Wildlife are vulnerable to cancers like people, and the disease could be an overlooked conservation threat. Cancer: Another Threat to Wildlife Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090701100000 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EST iStockPhoto/Cynthia Lagueux | Although perceived as invasive predators, dingoes actually protect biodiversity. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/30/dingoes-predators.html A new study on dingoes shows that invasive predators can play an important role in the food web and might actually be good for conservation. Predatory Dingoes Promote Diversity Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090630080000 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 08:00:00 GMT Mike Letnic | Greater dust accumulation as a result of climate change speeds up mountain snowmelt. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/29/mountain-snow-melt.html Greater dust accumulation as a result of climate change speeds up mountain snowmelt. Increasing Dust Accelerates Mountain Snowmelt Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20090629224000 Mon, 29 Jun 2009 22:40:00 GMT NOAA | Researchers believe Louisiana will lose up to 5,212 square miles of coastline by 2100. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/29/louisiana-coast.html Researchers believe Louisiana will lose up to 5,212 square miles of coastline by 2100. Louisiana Coast Still Vulnerable to Erosion Associated Press earth 20090629182500 Mon, 29 Jun 2009 18:25:00 GMT NASA Earth Observatory | Even moderate global warming may eradicate much of the world's rainforests. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/29/rainforest-warming.html Even if we stopped emitting greenhouse gases today, rainforests would still be in for decades of climate-induced destruction, according to new predictions. Rainforests More Fragile Than Estimated Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090629091500 Mon, 29 Jun 2009 09:15:00 EST iStockPhoto | Faced with declining populations, spotted owls have lost genetic diversity. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/25/spotted-owl.html Faced with declining populations, spotted owls have lost genetic diversity. Spotted Owls Face Genetic Bottleneck Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090625080000 Thu, 25 Jun 2009 08:00:00 GMT U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Nine-year-old boy used tips from 'Man Vs. Wild' to survive a night alone in the woods. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/23/discovery-show-saves-boy.html Nine-year-old boy used tips from the Discovery Channel tv show 'Man Vs. Wild' to survive a night alone in Utah's forests. 'Man Vs. Wild' Helps Lost Boy Survive Alone Elizabeth White, Associated Press earth 20090623150000 Tue, 23 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST DCI | The planet may have reached a state of "criticality" just before the 2004 tsunami. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/22/earthquake-critical.html The planet may have reached a state of "criticality" just before the Sumatra-Andaman earthquake in 2004, research suggests. Planet 'Restlessness' May Predict Big Quakes Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090622110000 Mon, 22 Jun 2009 11:00:00 EST Scott Barbour/Getty Images | Carbon markets could protect threatened species, as well as reduce emissions. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/19/carbon-credits-orangutan.html Carbon markets could protect threatened species, as well as reduce emissions, research shows. Carbon Credits Could Help Orangutans, Elephants Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090619130000 Fri, 19 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | This June, rain has dampened spirits and swamped roads. What's going on? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/19/rainy-june-weather.html This June, rain after rain after rain has dampened spirits and swamped roads. What's going on? June: Why So Wet? Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20090619111500 Fri, 19 Jun 2009 11:15:00 EST AP Photo/Bebeto Matthews | Huge volcanic eruptions kicked off the freeze-thaw cycle that persists today. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/19/eruptions-ice-age.html A series of huge volcanic eruptions 34 million years ago put ice on our poles and kicked off a freeze-thaw cycle that persists to this day. Ancient Volcanic Blasts Kicked Off Modern Ice Ages Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090619093000 Fri, 19 Jun 2009 09:30:00 EST Massimo Sestini/Getty Images | Images from an orbiter offer proof of an ancient lake on the Red Planet. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/18/mars-lake-life.html High resolution images from an Mars orbiter offer proof of a deep, ancient lake on the Red Planet. Mars Lake Held as Much Water as Lake Champlain Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090618134500 Thu, 18 Jun 2009 13:45:00 EST G. Di Achille, University of Colorado | Shrews use primitive echolocation to "see" past obstacles and navigate. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/18/shrews-echolocation.html Shrews use primitive echolocation to 'see' past obstacles and navigate in their dark world, according to a new study. Sonic Twittering Helps Shrews Find Their Way http://blogs.discovery.com/earth Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090618081500 Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:15:00 EST iStockPhoto | The Obama administration issues the strongest White House statement yet on global warming. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/16/global-warming-obama.html The Obama administration issues the strongest White House statement yet on global warming. White House: Climate Change Happening Now Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20090616151500 Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:15:00 EST Getty Images | The highest amount of carbon is found locked in an Australian mountain ash forest. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/16/australia-forest-carbon.html The highest amount of carbon is found locked in a forest located in Australia's Victoria's Central Highlands. Australian Forests Best at Locking Up Carbon Anna Salleh, ABC Science Online earth 20090616091500 Tue, 16 Jun 2009 09:15:00 EST Getty Images | A photograph of an unusual cluster of clouds inspires an effort to create a new cloud category. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/12/cloud-photograph.html A woman's photograph of an unusual cluster of dark, undulating clouds inspires an effort to create a new cloud category. Photo Triggers Push for New Cloud Class Michael J. Crumb, Associated Press earth 20090612120000 Fri, 12 Jun 2009 12:00:00 EST AP Photo/Jane Wiggins | The ozone hole over Antarctica is preventing the ocean from taking up CO2. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/12/ozone-oceans-climate.html The ozone hole over Antarctica is preventing the ocean from taking up CO2 from the atmosphere. Ozone Hole Worsens Climate Predictions Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090612090000 Fri, 12 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST NASA | Swamp beasts of the prehistoric Canadian high Arctic survived the polar darkness on rotting plants. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/11/arctic-alligators.html Beasts that roamed balmy swamps and forests in the prehistoric Arctic survived the polar dark by eating decaying plants, according to a new study. Ancient Beasts Thrived in Arctic Swamps http://blogs.discovery.com/earth Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090611090000 Thu, 11 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST iStockPhoto /Jaelyn Eberle, University of Colorado | Research suggests winds in the U.S. are dying down; global warming could be to blame. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/10/winds-dying-down.html Winds in the United States are weaker on average than they were decades ago, a phenom that could be caused by global warming and hurt the wind power industry. Winds Losing Umph in U.S. Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20090610124500 Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:45:00 EST AP Photo/Al Grillo | Big mammals may be unexpectedly flexible to climate change, research finds. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/10/mammals-climate-change.html Big mammals may be unexpectedly flexible to climate change, according to research that found in the past animals shifted their diets with ease. Climate Change? Big Mammals May Be Flexible Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090610104500 Wed, 10 Jun 2009 10:45:00 EST Getty Images | By measuring cosmic rays pulses, scientists hope to learn what sparks lightning. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/09/lightning-cosmic-rays.html By measuring radio pulses made by cosmic rays, scientists hope to learn what sparks lightning. Cosmic Rays May Reveal Why Lightning Strikes Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20090609131500 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 13:15:00 EST Getty Images | Volcano experts recently captured undersea volcanic eruptions underway. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/05/undersea-eruptions.html Volcano experts scrambled to the South Pacific Ocean recently and captured undersea volcanic eruptions underway. Undersea Volcanic Eruptions Spotted in Action Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090605090000 Fri, 05 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory | The area where Air France Flight 447 went down gives rise to the strongest storms on Earth. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/04/air-france-storm-zone.html The area where an Air France flight went down is known as the birthplace of the strongest storms on Earth. Plane Vanished in Ferocious Storm Zone Brian Skoloff, Associated Press earth 20090604153000 Thu, 04 Jun 2009 15:30:00 EST AP Photo/Eumetsat | Giant, fast-moving atmospheric waves have been detected over Alaska. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/04/atmosphere-waves.html Giant, fast-moving atmospheric waves have been detected over Alaska and a new radar is helping scientists see them in 3-D. Huge Waves Detected in Atmosphere Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20090604080000 Thu, 04 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST NASA | A prehistoric mountain range was discovered on Antarctica under miles of ice. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/03/mountains-antarctica.html An ancient mountain range similar to the European Alps was discovered on Antarctica under miles of ice. Ancient Antarctic Mountains Found Under Miles of Ice AFP earth 20090603160000 Wed, 03 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST AP Photo/Torsten Blackwood | Passenger jets are hit by lightning every 1,000 hours on average, but can usually still fly. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/02/lightning-jets-risk.html Passenger jets are hit by lightning every 1,000 hours on average, but usually the jets can continue to fly. Lightning Strikes Common for Jets Celine Le Prioux, AFP earth 20090602091500 Tue, 02 Jun 2009 09:15:00 EST Getty Images | The Earth's atmosphere is lost at a far higher rate than previously thought. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/02/solar-wind-atmosphere.html A new study suggests the Earth's atmosphere is being lost at a far higher rate than both Mars and Venus, even though Earth has a stronger magnetic field. Earth Losing Atmosphere Faster than Venus, Mars Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20090602083000 Tue, 02 Jun 2009 08:30:00 EST NASA | Ancient humans appear to have realized how to maximize their shellfish catch. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/01/sustainable-fishing.html By controlling local sea otter populations, ancient humans appear to have realized how to maximize their shellfish catch. Ancient Humans Knew Sustainable Fishing Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090601142000 Mon, 01 Jun 2009 14:20:00 EST iStockPhoto | Violent tropical storms are common in the zone where a Air France jet was lost. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/06/01/air-france-storms.html Meteorologists say violent tropical storms are common in the area where a Air France jet was lost. Thick Storms May Have Doomed Missing Plane Associated Press earth 20090601133000 Mon, 01 Jun 2009 13:30:00 EST AP Photo | The melting Greenland Ice Sheet could spell trouble for the northeast U.S. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/29/greenland-melt-sea-level.html The Greenland Ice Sheet is melting faster than expected and that could spell extra trouble for the northeast coast of the United States and eastern Canada. Greenland Ice Melt May Threaten Northeast Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090529091500 Fri, 29 May 2009 09:15:00 EST AP Photo/Guy Palmiotto | The first direct link between a mega-eruption and mass extinction emerges in China. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/28/volcano-mass-extinction.html Around 270 million years ago, a volcanic eruption caused a mass extinction of marine life, according to a new study. A Supervolcano's Fallout: Mass Extinction Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090528140000 Thu, 28 May 2009 14:00:00 EST Science/AAAS | Absorbent peat bogs could help blunt the impact of sea level rise, research finds. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/28/peat-bogs-warming.html Absorbent peat bogs could help blunt the impact of sea level rise, research finds, by soaking up meltwater. Sponge-Like Peat Bogs Could Offset Sea Level Rise Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090528082000 Thu, 28 May 2009 08:20:00 EST iStockPhoto | Greenhouse gases trapped in Arctic permafrost may be released gradually. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/27/permafrost-arctic-warming.html Greenhouse gases trapped in the Arctic tundra may be released by global warming more gradually than thought. Permafrost 'Time Bomb' Ticking, But Slowly Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20090527163000 Thu, 27 May 2009 16:30:00 EST Getty Images | Predicting where displaced animals could live may become a major conservation tool. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/27/desert-tortoise-map.html Predicting where displaced animals could live may become an important conservation tool. Desert Tortoises Get Real Estate Map Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090527080000 Wed, 27 May 2009 08:00:00 EST AP Photo | Scientists are creating intelligent wind turbines that shape-shift with the wind. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/26/wind-turbine-tech.html Scientists are creating intelligent wind turbines that shape-shift with the wind. Smart Wind Turbines to Switch Shapes Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20090526084500 Tue, 26 May 2009 08:45:00 EST Purdue University | Artificial sugars end up unchanged in surface waters, making them ideal markers. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/22/artificial-sweetener.html Artificial sugars pass through the human body and end up in high levels in surface waters, making them ideal markers for tracing pollution from treatment plants. Sweeteners Linger in Groundwater Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090522093000 Fri, 22 May 2009 09:30:00 EST iStockPhoto | Primitive life forms may have survived a period of intense bombardment on early Earth. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/20/early-earth-life.html Life forms may have arisen on Earth some 4.4 billion years ago and survived a harsh period of bombardment. Life on Earth May Have Begun Much Earlier Marlowe Hood, AFP earth 20090520140000 Wed, 20 May 2009 14:00:00 EST Oleg Abramov | The porous structure of echinoderms offer a model for a greenhouse gas sponge. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/20/echinoderms-co2.html The porous structure of echinoderms offer a model for a sponge to absorb greenhouse gases. Sea Creatures Inspire CO2 Sponge Nicky Phillips, ABC Science Online earth 20090520100000 Wed, 20 May 2009 10:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | New fuel and emission standards will save oil for an extra $1,300 per vehicle. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/19/car-emissions.html President Obama's new fuel and emission standards will save oil and clear air at a cost of an extra $1,300 per vehicle. National Emission Limits to Conserve at a Cost Ken Thomas and Philip Elliott, Associated Press earth 20090519120000 Tue, 19 May 2009 12:00:00 EST AP Photo | Carbon monoxide, spewed into the air, may have led to the dinosaurs' demise. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/19/carbon-monoxide-dinosaurs.html Carbon monoxide, spewed into the air, may have led to the dinosaurs' demise. Were Dinosaurs Gassed Out? Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090519100000 Tue, 19 May 2009 10:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | The telltale magnetic traces of heavy metals could help map tainted waterways. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/18/magnetic-pollution-water.html Looking for the telltale magnetic traces of heavy metal pollution could become a powerful way to map the world's tainted waterways. Polluted Waters Bear Magnetic Signature Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090518114500 Mon, 18 May 2009 11:45:00 EST iStockPhoto | A potent tool for tracking particulate air pollution is discovered -- tree leaves. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/18/tree-leaves-pollution.html A potent tool for tracking particulate air pollution is discovered -- tree leaves. Tree Leaves Reveal Deadly Pollution Levels Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090518101500 Mon, 18 May 2009 10:15:00 EST iStockPhoto | Chemicals used to make food wrappers grease-proof are found in human blood. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/15/food-wrapper-chemical.html Chemicals used to make food wrappers grease-proof are found for the first time in human blood. Food Wrapper Coating Found in Human Blood Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090515131500 Fri, 15 May 2009 13:15:00 EST Getty Images | NASA scientists are growing algae for biofuel using nutrient-rich waste water. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/14/nasa-algae-biofuel.html NASA scientists propose a new way to produce biofuel that sanitizes waste water, removes carbon dioxide from the air, and doesn't compete with agriculture for land or water. NASA Grows Algae for Biofuel, Treats Waste Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20090514150000 Thu, 14 May 2009 15:00:00 EST AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth | If the West Antarctic ice sheet collapses, sea level rise may not be as dramatic as thought. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/14/sea-level-rise.html The global sea level will only rise about 10 feet if the West Antarctic ice sheet collapses, new research suggests. Sea Level Forecast Scaled Back Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20090514143000 Thu, 14 May 2009 14:30:00 EST Getty Images | Tropical storms and global warming may encourage each other. But how? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/14/tropical-cyclones-warming.html Tropical cyclones send ice high up into the stratosphere, which might fuel global warming. Global warming, in turn, appears to make tropical cyclones more severe. Global Warming and Tropical Cyclones: a Vicious Cycle? Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090514101500 Thu, 14 May 2009 10:15:00 EST Getty Images | Can plate tectonics shut on and off like a light switch? Not everyone is convinced. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/14/first-glaciers-tectonics.html Can plate tectonics shut on and off like a light switch? Not everyone is convinced. Volcano 'Vacation' Produced First Glaciers Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090514090000 Thu, 14 May 2009 09:00:00 EST Getty Images | Mercury emissions reach ocean fish with a helping hand from circulating algae. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/12/mercury-fish-algae.html Mercury emissions from human sources make their way from the atmosphere into ocean fish with a helping hand from circulating algae. Mercury Takes Algae Road to Ocean Fish Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090512092000 Tue, 12 May 2009 09:20:00 EST iStockPhoto | The world's coal supply may be so low that an energy crisis looms, estimates show. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/11/peak-coal-energy.html The world's coal supply may be so low that an energy crisis looms -- and global warming may even be slowed. Coal Supply May Be Vastly Overestimated Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090511091000 Mon, 11 May 2009 09:10:00 EST AP Photo/Ng Han Guan | People are likely to flood to urban areas as climate change forces migration. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/10/climate-change-migration.html As climate change unleashes flooding, drought and rising sea levels, people are likely to migrate to urban areas, a study concludes. Warming to Trigger Vast Human Migrations Richard Ingham, AFP earth 20090510114500 Wed, 10 May 2009 11:45:00 EST AP Photo/David Longstreath | Polar bear protection will not be broadened to include limits on nation-wide emissions. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/08/polar-bear-emissions.html Polar bear protection will not be broadened to include limits on nation-wide emissions, according to reports. Polar Bear Protection Won't Be Broadened H. Josef Hebert, Associated Press earth 20090508130000 Fri, 08 May 2009 13:00:00 EST Getty Images | Earth's first cave dwellers show how underground life on Mars may be possible today. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/08/cave-bacteria-mars.html Earth's first cave dwellers show how underground life on Mars may be possible today. Earthly Cave Bacteria Hint at Mars Life Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090508124500 Fri, 08 May 2009 12:45:00 EST Birger Rasmussen, Curtin University of Technology | Italy and Switzerland map their borders anew as global warming alters the mountainous dividing line. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/08/glacier-alps-borders.html Italy and Switzerland map their borders anew as global warming alters the mountainous dividing line. Shrinking Glaciers Redraw Europe's Borders Rossella Lorenzi, Discovery News earth 20090508100000 Fri, 08 May 2009 10:00:00 EST Getty Images | A dazzling firefly population in Malaysia faces destruction due to tree clearing. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/07/fireflies-malaysia.html A dazzling firefly population in Malaysia faces destruction due to tree clearing. Fears of 'Lights Out' for Malaysian Fireflies M. Jegathesan, AFP earth 20090507134500 Thu, 07 May 2009 13:45:00 EST AP Photo/Anchana Thancharoen | A packed cluster of trilobite fossils found in Portugal could include the largest ever found. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/07/trilobites-fossil.html A packed cluster of trilobite fossils found in Portugal could include the largest ever found. Giant Trilobites in Portugal Could Be Biggest Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090507100000 Thu, 07 May 2009 10:00:00 EST Artur Sa, University of Tras-os-Montes and Alto Douro | NASA designs a green-powered fueling system for buses that run on hydrogen. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/06/hydrogen-electrolyzer.html NASA is designing a wind- and sun-powered fueling system for city buses that run on hydrogen. Hydrogen Fuel Made Using Green Energy Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20090506141500 Wed, 06 May 2009 14:15:00 EST NASA/Greater Cleveland RTA | Black band disease, which kills coral as it eats tissue, has infected the Great Barrier Reef. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/06/great-barrier-reef.html Black band disease, which kills coral as it eats through tissue, has appeared in the Great Barrier Reef. Disease Strikes Great Barrier Reef Helen Carter, ABC Science Online earth 20090506100000 Wed, 06 May 2009 10:00:00 EST Getty Images | A cluster of glaciers in the Himalayas are bucking the global warming trend. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/05/himalayas-glaciers.html A cluster of glaciers in the Himalayas are bucking the global warming trend and are growing. Some Himalayan Glaciers Growing Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090505150000 Tue, 05 May 2009 15:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | Vanishing sea ice could cause seals to eat more mercury-contaminated fish. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/05/seal-mercury-fish.html Vanishing sea ice could cause seals in the Arctic to eat more mercury-contaminated fish. Mercury in Seal's Diet Linked to Warming Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090505093000 Tue, 05 May 2009 09:30:00 EST NOAA | Erosion flowing off Pangea may have choked seas and set the stage for mass extinction. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/04/pangea-mass-extinction.html Erosion flowing off the supercontinent Pangea may have choked shallow seas and set the stage for the world's greatest mass extinction. Poison Bacteria Set Up Worst Extinction Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090504100000 Mon, 04 May 2009 10:00:00 EST Lunar and Planetary Institute | The ozone hole may explain why Antarctica's ice is more resilient than the Arctic's, for now. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/01/ozone-antarctica.html The ozone hole may explain why Antarctica's ice has been far more resilient than the Arctic's in the face of global warming. Ozone Recovery Could Thaw Antarctica Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090501112000 Fri, 01 May 2009 11:20:00 EST Image courtesy the TOMS science team and the Scientific Visualization Studio, NASA GSFC | Scientists discover a new pollutant emitted from forest fires that can alter human DNA. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/30/forest-fire-toxin.html Scientists discover a new pollutant emitted from smoldering forest fires that can alter human DNA. New Toxin Detected in Forest Fire Smoke Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090430091500 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 09:15:00 EST Getty Images | Modeling shows that pollution needs to be cut more than current goals to limit warming. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/29/emissions-cut-warming.html Computer modeling shows that pollution needs to be cut even more than current goals to limit global warming. CO2 Must Be Slashed More to Limit Warming Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20090429155000 Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:50:00 EST iStockPhoto | The Wilkins ice shelf that once covered 6,000 square miles is breaking apart. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/28/antarctic-ice-shelf.html The Wilkins ice shelf that once covered 6,000 square miles has calved from Antarctica and started to fracture. Huge Antarctic Ice Shelf Fractures AFP earth 20090428152000 Tue, 28 Apr 2009 15:20:00 EST British Antarctic Survey | Kenya elephants' diets are gleaned from tail hair analysis and GPS tracking. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/28/elephants-gps-grass.html GPS collars and analysis of chemical isotopes in tail hairs help researchers understand how human encroachment and climate change could harm elephant populations in Kenya. GPS and Hair Analysis Reveal Elephant Stresses Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090428100000 Tue, 28 Apr 2009 10:00:00 EST Thure Cerling, University of Utah | Reef fish under environmental stress create irregular offspring with asymmetrical ears. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/27/reef-fish-stress.html Reef fish under environmental stress are creating irregular offspring with asymmetrical ears. Stress Gives Reef Fish Wonky Ears Wendy Zukerman, ABC Science Online earth 20090427111500 Mon, 27 Apr 2009 11:15:00 EST iStockPhoto | Crushed shells work to remove heavy metals from contaminated water and soils. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/27/shells-metals-water.html Crushed shells from oysters, clams and other bivalves work to remove heavy metals from contaminated water and soils. Sea Shells Used to Clean Up Heavy Metals Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090427093000 Mon, 27 Apr 2009 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | Why has the swine flu engulfing Mexico been deadly there, but not in the U.S.? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/26/swine-flu-mexico.html Why has the swine flu engulfing Mexico been deadly there, but not in the United States? Swine Flu Symptoms Worse in Mexico than U.S. Mike Stobbe, Associated Press earth 20090426130800 Sun, 26 Apr 2009 13:08:00 EST AP Photo/Gregory Bull | A unique strain of swine flu is the suspected killer of dozens of people in Mexico. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/24/swine-flu-mexico.html A unique strain of swine flu is the suspected killer of dozens of people in Mexico. Mexico Swine Flu Deaths Spur Epidemic Fears Mark Stevenson, Associated Press earth 20090424194500 Fri, 24 Apr 2009 19:45:00 EST AP Photo/Dario Lopez-Mills | Catastrophic climate change from a huge methane release may be less likely than thought. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/24/methane-climate.html Catastrophic climate change due to a massive release of underwater stores of methane is less likely than previously thought, suggests new research. Methane Climate Shock Unlikely, Study Suggests Anna Salleh, ABC Science Online earth 20090424163000 Fri, 24 Apr 2009 16:30:00 EST NOAA | A pregnant woman's diet can have significant effects on her child's health years later. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/24/ddt-pregnancy-health.html What your mother consumed during her pregnancy may also add to your own waistline later in life. DDT Exposure in Womb May Cause Obesity Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090424073000 Fri, 24 Apr 2009 07:30:00 EST GRT | A ailing section of Australia's Great Barrier Reef has regenerated itself in record time. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/23/great-barrier-reef.html A section of Australia's Great Barrier Reef, which scientists have warned could be killed by global warming within decades, has regenerated itself in record time. 'Lucky Escape' for Great Barrier Reef AFP earth 20090423130000 Thu, 23 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST Getty Images | The Earth's ailing ozone layer may recover, but it will never look exactly like it used to. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/23/ozone-layer.html The Earth's ailing ozone layer will probably recover, but it will never look exactly like it used to. Ozone Layer Faces Bumpy Return to Health Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090423112000 Thu, 23 Apr 2009 11:20:00 EST NOAA | A new electrical device could improve fuel cell tech by turning CO2 into methane. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/23/electric-fart-machine.html This is no gag gift: A new electrical farting machine could improve fuel cell tech by converting CO2 into methane. Microbe-Powered 'Fart' Machine Stores Energy Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20090423093000 Thu, 23 Apr 2009 09:30:00 EST Bruce Logan, Pennsylvania State University | Like living thermometers, some owls are turning a deep shade of red as the climate warms. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/22/owl-climate-change.html Like living thermometers, some species of owls in Europe and the United States are turning a deep shade of red as temperatures rise. Owls Getting Redder as Climate Warms Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090422133030 Wed, 22 Apr 2009 13:30:30 EST iStockPhoto | The collapse of an unstable volcano on Dominica could unleash a devastating tsunami. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/21/underwater-volcano.html The collapse of an unstable volcano on Dominica would unleash a tsunami upon the nearby coast of Guadeloupe. Volcano 'Poses Tsunami Threat' in Caribbean AFP earth 20090421100000 Tue, 21 Apr 2009 10:00:00 EST USGS | A new survey reveals China's Great Wall is more than 2,000 miles longer than thought. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/20/great-wall-china.html A new survey reveals that the Great Wall of China is more than 2,000 miles longer than thought. China's Great Wall Far Longer Than Thought AFP earth 20090420111600 Mon, 20 Apr 2009 11:16:00 EST Getty Images | Nearly a quarter of land around the world is degrading, finds new research. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/20/degraded-land.html Nearly a quarter of land around the world is degrading in the quality of soil and vegetation, finds new research. World's Land Slipping in Quality Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090420092500 Mon, 20 Apr 2009 09:25:00 EST Getty Images | In an important turnabout, the EPA says CO2 poses a threat to human health. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/17/co2-health-epa.html In an important turnabout, the EPA says carbon dioxide poses a threat to human health. EPA Deems CO2 a Health Risk AFP earth 20090417150000 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 15:00:00 EST GRT | A population of microbes has been thriving in a reservoir of briny liquid under an Antarctic glacier. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/16/glacier-microbes.html A population of microbes has been thriving for more than a million years in a freezing, dark, airless reservoir of briny liquid beneath an Antarctic glacier. Ancient Ecosystem Found in Ice Pocket Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090416140000 Thu, 16 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST Ralph Maestas | Tree-like towers could help scrub climate-warming CO2 from Earth's atmosphere. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/16/trees-geoengineering.html To scrub climate-warming CO2 from the atmosphere, researchers in the U.K. are developing artificial trees that could make cap-and-trade systems more efficient. Artificial Trees Could Cool Climate Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20090416093000 Thu, 16 Apr 2009 09:30:00 EST GRT | The largest forest of black coral is found near the home of mystical sea monsters. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/16/black-coral-monsters.html Researchers have discovered the world's largest forest of black coral off the coast of Italy in a place where mystical sea monsters were once rumored to live. Vast Black Coral Forest Found Rossella Lorenzi, Discovery News earth 20090416090000 Thu, 16 Apr 2009 09:00:00 EST ISPRA | Conservationists discover a large group of orangutans in a remote corner of Borneo. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/13/orangutan-indonesia.html Conservationists discover a large, previously unknown group of orangutans in a remote corner of Borneo. New Orangutan Population Found in Indonesia Robin McDowell, Associated Press earth 20090413100000 Mon, 13 Apr 2009 10:00:00 EST Nature Conservancy | Scientists find adding iron to the oceans is no climate change cure-all. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/13/ocean-iron-carbon.html A huge experiment that added iron to the ocean wraps up and scientists find it may not be the cure-all for climate change. Adding Iron to Ocean Won't Stop Warming Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20090413091500 Mon, 13 Apr 2009 09:15:00 EST Marina Montresor, SZN / Alfred Wegener Institute | As bowhead whales disappear from Alaska, the Inupiat people struggle to cope. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/13/inupiat-alaska-climate.html As Alaska's bowhead whales respond to climate change, the Inupiat people, who depend on the whales for much more than food, are adapting a centuries-old way of life. For Alaska's Inupiat, Climate Change and Culture Shock Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090413084530 Mon, 13 Apr 2009 08:45:30 EST Getty Images | A new project aims to reduce the threat posed by farm runoff to the Gulf of Mexico. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/10/gulf-coast-runoff.html A new project that enlists middle and high school students aims to reduce farm runoff that is a growing pollution threat to the Gulf of Mexico. Gulf States' Farm Runoff Gets Watchdog Garry Mitchell, Associated PRess earth 20090410141500 Fri, 10 Apr 2009 14:15:00 EST NASA | Detergents used to clean up oil spills might be worse for fish that the spills themselves. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/10/oil-spill-fish.html The detergents used to clean up oil spills might actually be more toxic to fish that the oil spills themselves, according to a new study. Oil Spill Surface Cleanup Ignores Fish Below Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090410090000 Fri, 10 Apr 2009 09:00:00 EST Getty Images | Analysis of the Solomon Islands quake shows even young crust can produce big earthquakes. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/09/solomon-earthquake.html New analysis of the Solomon Islands earthquake shows that the subduction of even young crust can produce major earthquakes. Triple Junction of Crusts Caused 2007 Quake Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20090409144500 Thu, 09 Apr 2009 14:45:00 EST AP Photo/Rob Griffith | Life may owe its existence to fluctuating levels of a humble metal in the primordial sea. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/09/nickel-evolution.html Life as we know it may owe its existence to fluctuating levels of a humble metal in the primordial sea, according to a study published Wednesday. How Nickel Kick-Started Evolution AFP earth 20090409101000 Thu, 09 Apr 2009 10:10:00 EST Getty Images | Necropsy reports of leatherback turtles revealed plastic inside more than a third of the animals. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/09/leatherback-turtles.html Reviews of hundreds of necropsy reports of leatherback turtles since 1885 revealed plastic inside more than a third of the animals. Leatherback Turtles Consuming Plastic Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090409090000 Thu, 09 Apr 2009 09:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | Seattle is in serious danger of being flattened by a major earthquake, say experts. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/09/seattle-earthquake-fault.html Sitting on one of the biggest seismic time bombs in the world, the city of Seattle is in serious danger of being flattened by a 9.0 earthquake or greater earthquake, according to a new study. Seattle Skyline Could Collapse in Big Quake Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090409084500 Thu, 09 Apr 2009 08:45:00 EST iStockPhoto | Ancient stalagmites from a submerged cave show sea levels rise faster than expected. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/08/stalagmites-warming.html Ancient stalagmites from a submerged cave show sea levels rise faster than expected after warming begins. Stalagmites Reveal Rapid Sea Level Rise Dani Cooper, ABC Science Online earth 20090408110000 Wed, 08 Apr 2009 11:00:00 EST Andrea Dutton | Next month an army of scientists will crisscross the nation in search of twisters. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/07/tornado-chasers.html Next month a small army of scientists will crisscross the nation's middle in search of twisters. Tornado Chasers Gear Up for 2009 Season Associated Press earth 20090407140000 Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST Getty Images | A new technique for studying faraway planets relies on reflections seen in their moons. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/07/moon-earthshine.html A new technique for studying the surfaces of faraway planets relies on reflections seen in their orbiting moons. Lunar Reflections Reveal Earth's Surface Dani Cooper, ABC Science Online earth 20090407100000 Tue, 07 Apr 2009 10:00:00 EST AP Photo/Dr. Scott M. Lieberman | The tug of the sun and moon on Earth can trigger temblors, a study proves. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/06/earth-tide-quakes.html The tug of the sun and moon on Earth can trigger temblors, a study of 443,000 earthquakes proves. Solid Earth Tide Triggers Quakes Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090406093000 Mon, 06 Apr 2009 09:30:00 EST iStockPhoto | Our growing thirst for bottled water is bad for the environment, say researchers. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/06/bottled-water.html Our growing thirst for bottled water is bad for the environment, say the authors of a new analysis of the energy costs of the industry. Bottled Water Carries Hidden Cost to Earth Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090406090030 Mon, 06 Apr 2009 09:00:30 EST Getty Images | France aims to set up Europe's first "anti-light-pollution" reserve. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/03/pyrenees-night-sky.html France aims to set up Europe's first "anti-light-pollution" reserve to help preserve the night sky for a historic observatory in the Pyrenees. Pyrenees Reserve Protects Dark Night Sky AFP earth 20090403153030 Fri, 03 Apr 2009 15:30:30 EST Getty Images | Some 80 percent of Arctic ice may disappear in 30 years. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/03/arctic-sea-ice.html Some 80 percent of Arctic ice may disappear in 30 years, not 90 as scientists had previously estimated, according to a new study on the impact of global warming. Arctic May Be Ice-Free in 30 Years AFP earth 20090403130030 Fri, 03 Apr 2009 13:00:30 EST Getty Images | The peaks of Mt. Hood and Rainier could unleash dangerous flows as the climate warms. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/04/02/mountain-mud-flow.html The snowy peaks of Mt. Hood and Rainier could unleash muddy, dangerous flows as climate change melts glaciers. Mud and Boulder Flows to Threaten Northwest Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090402090000 Thu, 02 Apr 2009 09:00:00 EST Getty Images | China's dust storms neutralize sulfuric and nitric acid particles before they fall to Earth. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/31/dust-storms-china.html China's dust storms may be a blessing in disguise since they neutralize sulfuric and nitric acid particles before they fall to Earth. Dust Masks Acid Rain 'Time Bomb' in China Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090331094000 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 09:40:00 EST AP Photo/Greg Baker | Toxic gases fuming from salt lakes may have caused the world's worst extinction event. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/31/salt-lake-extinction.html The world's worst mass extinction may have been caused by toxic gases fuming from salt lakes around the world, according to a controversial new theory. Did Great Salt Lakes Trigger Mass Extinction? Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090331093000 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 09:30:00 EST Image courtesy Jeff Schmaltz, MODIS Land Rapid Response Team at NASA GSFC | Hundreds of pets and livestock wait out the North Dakota flood in a fairgrounds pavilion. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/30/dakota-flood-pets.html Chased from their homes by the Red River, hundreds of pets and livestock wait out the flood in a fairgrounds pavilion. Pets Wait Out ND Flood in Shelters James MacPherson, Associated Press earth 20090330114000 Mon, 30 Mar 2009 11:40:00 EST AP Photo/Minneapolis Star Tribune, Brian Peterson | In times of stress, female mushroom corals can turn into male mushroom corals. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/30/mushroom-corals-sex.html In times of stress, female mushroom corals can turn into male mushroom corals since it takes less energy to produce sperm than eggs. Stressed Female Mushroom Corals Become Male Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090330103000 Mon, 30 Mar 2009 10:30:00 EST iStockPhoto | After spreading a layer of ash over Anchorage, Alaska's Mount Redoubt simmers down. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/30/mount-redoubt-calms.html After spreading a gritty layer of ash over Anchorage, Alaska's Mount Redoubt simmers down. Mount Redoubt Volcano Finally Calms Down Associated Press earth 20090330102000 Mon, 30 Mar 2009 10:20:00 EST AP Photo/Al Grillo | Could a decline in dust from Africa be partly responsible for recent warming trends? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/27/dust-atlantic-warming.html Could a decline in dust from Africa and volcanoes be partly responsible for recent warming trends? Dust Plays Role in Atlantic Warming AFP earth 20090327124500 Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:45:00 EST NASA/USGS | The Red River rises to a 112-year high, breaching dikes and forcing evacuations. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/27/red-river-flood.html The Red River rises to a 112-year high, breaching dikes, flooding streets, and forcing evacuations. Red River Tops Record Height, Breaching Dikes Nate Jenkins and Dave Kolpack, Associated Press earth 20090327113000 Fri, 27 Mar 2009 11:30:00 EST AP Photo/Minneapolis Star Tribune, Brian Peterson | Human-produced CO2 has been growing 2.3 percent since recording began in 1958. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/27/carbon-dioxide-rise.html Humanity's contribution of carbon dioxide is rising at a rate that would double the greenhouse gas level every 30 years. Human-Made CO2 on Exponential Rise Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090327110000 Fri, 27 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | Scientists figure out how some bacteria break down toxic metals. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/27/bacteria-uranium.html Scientists figure out how some bacteria take in toxic metals, break them down, and release a non-toxic form. Microbes' Toxic Metal-Digestion Secret Revealed Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090327091500 Fri, 27 Mar 2009 09:15:00 EST Pacific Northwest National Laboratory | As the Red River approaches record highs, officials in Fargo, N.D., raise the dikes. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/26/fargo-flood-dikes.html As the Red River approaches record highs, officials in Fargo, N.D., raise the dikes. Fargo Flood Fears Rising With River Nate Jenkins, Associated Press earth 20090326094500 Thu, 26 Mar 2009 09:45:00 EST AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster | Fish caught near water treatment plants are found to carry residues of pharmaceuticals. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/25/pharmaceuticals-fish.html Fish caught near wastewater treatment plants serving five major U.S. cities are found to carry residues of pharmaceuticals. Drugs Found in Fish Near Treatment Plants Martha Mendoza, Associated Press earth 20090325130000 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | A common anti-termite pesticide is a potent greenhouse gas, new research shows. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/25/pesticide-atmosphere.html A common anti-termite pesticide is a potent greenhouse gas that lingers in the atmosphere far longer than expected. Pesticide Lingers in Atmosphere, Trapping Heat Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090325090000 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 09:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | Alaska's Mount Redoubt shows no signs of quieting, sending a cloud of ash 12 miles into the air. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/24/mount-redoubt-tremors.html Alaska's Mount Redoubt shows no signs of quieting, sending a cloud of ash 12 miles into the air. Alaska's Mt. Redoubt Volcano Erupts Again Associated Press earth 20090324160000 Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:00:00 EST AP Photo/ Alaska Volcano Observatory / U.S. Geological Survey | Anchorage is spared as Alaska's Mount Redoubt erupts four times. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/23/mount-redoubt-volcano.html Anchorage is spared as Alaska's Mount Redoubt erupts four times, sending an ash plume more than 9 miles into the air. Alaska's Mount Redoubt Volcano Erupts Mark Thiessen, Associated Press earth 20090323091500 Mon, 23 Mar 2009 09:15:00 EST AP Photo | Farming practices in the 1930s had a hand in leading to the Dust Bowl conditions. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/23/dust-bowl-human.html Farming practices in the 1930s had a hand in leading to the miserable Dust Bowl conditions of the 1930s, new research shows. Dust Bowl Had Human Fingerprint Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090323090000 Mon, 23 Mar 2009 09:00:00 EST Arthur Rothstein/Library of Congress | From wind tech to coal mining, the energy business is contributing to bird declines. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/20/bird-energy-decline.html From wind tech to coal mining, the energy business is contributing to bird declines, says a new report. Energy Boom Bad News for Birds? Dina Cappiello, Associated Press earth 20090320121000 Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:10:00 EST Getty Images | A powerful 7.9 quake near Tonga stokes tsunami fears around the region. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/20/tonga-quake-tsunami.html A powerful 7.9 quake near Tonga stokes tsunami fears around the region. Tonga Quake Prompts Tsunami Warning Pesi Fonua, Associated Press earth 20090320104500 Fri, 20 Mar 2009 10:45:00 EST USGS | An undersea eruption in the South Pacific has decimated local wildlife and vegetation. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/20/underwater-volcano.html An undersea eruption in the South Pacific has decimated local wildlife and vegetation. 'No Living Thing Left' Near Tonga Eruption AFP earth 20090320100000 Fri, 20 Mar 2009 10:00:00 EST AP Photo | The Amazon has the Andes to thank for its diverse population of poison frog species. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/20/frog-diversity-amazon.html Poison frog ancestors hopped from the Andes into the Amazon several times during the last 10 million years, research shows. Mountains Fed Amazon's Frog Diversity Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090320094500 Fri, 20 Mar 2009 09:45:00 EST Getty Images | An Australian plant uses chemical warfare to protect its red flowers from being eaten. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/19/red-flower-cyanide.html An Australian plant uses chemical warfare to protect its red flowers from being eaten, researchers find. Red Flowers Pack a Cyanide Surprise Dani Cooper, ABC Science Online earth 20090319123000 Thu, 19 Mar 2009 12:30:00 EST Australian National Botanical Gardens | An underwater eruption near Tonga spews ash thousands of feet into the sky. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/19/underwater-volcano.html An underwater eruption near Tonga spews a column of smoke and ash thousands of feet into the sky. Undersea Volcano Explodes in S. Pacific Associated Press earth 20090319100000 Thu, 19 Mar 2009 10:00:00 EST USGS | The West Antarctic ice sheet collapse millions of years ago lends clues to future melting. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/18/antarctica-ice-melt.html The West Antarctic ice sheet collapse millions of years ago lends clues to future melting. Antarctica's Past Offers Clues to Future Melting Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20090318152500 Wed, 18 Mar 2009 15:25:00 EST NASA/Ben Holt, Sr. | Surveys at forests around Chernobyl show residual radiation effects on birds and insects. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/18/chernobyl-animals.html Surveys at forests around the Chernobyl disaster site show residual radiation effects on birds and insects. Chernobyl Radiation Still Harming Animals Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20090318103000 Wed, 18 Mar 2009 10:30:00 EST Timothy Mousseau | Geologists consider injecting rocks with carbon dioxide to help slow global warming. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/18/carbon-dioxide-rocks.html Geologists consider injecting rocks with carbon dioxide to help slow global warming. CO2-Sucking Rocks Explored to Slow Warming Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090318094000 Wed, 18 Mar 2009 09:40:00 EST iStockPhoto/uSGS | There is a real chance Earth's climate will pass the point of no return in the coming years. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/16/climate-tipping-point.html There is a very real chance Earth's climate will pass the point of no return in the coming decades, say scientists. Climate 'Tipping Points' Weighed for Likelihood Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090316170000 Mon, 16 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | Long-term exposure to ozone raises the risk of dying from lung disease by 30 percent. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/16/ozone-lung-disease.html Long-term exposure to ozone raises the risk of dying from lung disease by 30 percent, finds research. Ozone Linked to Deadly Lung Disease Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090316101500 Mon, 16 Mar 2009 10:15:00 EST AP Photo/Kim D. John | New York's coasts will experience twice the sea level rise as the rest of the world. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/16/northeast-sea-level.html New York's coasts will experience twice the amount of sea level rise as the rest of the world, according to the new research. Sea Level Rise to Affect NYC, Northeast Most Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090316091500 Mon, 16 Mar 2009 09:15:00 EST AP Photo/Guy Palmiotto | Hundreds of species live in both poles despite the 8,000-mile distance. But how? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/13/arctic-antarctica-species.html At least 235 species live in both the Arctic and the Antarctic despite a distance of more than 8,000 miles between them. In Arctic and Antarctic, a Species Overlap Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090313083000 Fri, 13 Mar 2009 08:30:00 EST Getty Images | Satellite and land-based data show pollution has dimmed skies over the past 30 years. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/12/pollution-skies-dim.html Satellite and land-based data show pollution has dimmed skies over the past 30 years. Pollution Dimming Skies' Brightness Associated Press earth 20090312151500 Thu, 12 Mar 2009 15:15:00 EST AP Photo/Greg Baker | Lead levels in the hair of Australian animals reveal they are at higher risk than humans. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/12/wildlife-heavy-metals.html Lead and cadmium found in the hair of wildlife are revealing they are at higher risk from heavy metal pollution than humans, say experts. Heavy Metal Pollution Hits Wildlife Hardest Anna Salleh, ABC Science Online earth 20090312110000 Thu, 12 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | The rate of erosion has doubled along Alaska's Beaufort Sea in just a few decades. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/12/alaska-erosion-climate.html The rate of erosion has doubled along Alaska's Beaufort Sea in just a few decades. Add Erosion to Alaska's Climate Woes Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090312100000 Thu, 12 Mar 2009 10:00:00 EST Ben Jones | Previous estimates of sea level rise get a revision with an alarming new study. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/10/climate-sea-level.html Even if the world dramatically cuts greenhouse gas emissions, sea levels will rise dramatically in the coming decades, say scientists. Sea Level to Surge 3 Feet by 2100, Experts Warn AFP earth 20090310123000 Tue, 10 Mar 2009 12:30:00 EST Getty Images | Research confirms there is a link between weather and headaches. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/10/headaches-weather.html Weather-related headaches are a common complaint and now research confirms there is a link. Inclement Weather Linked to Headaches Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090310101500 Tue, 10 Mar 2009 10:15:00 EST iStockPhoto | Europe's forests have recovered significantly since the collapse of the Soviet Union. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/10/communism-europe-forests.html A new study of land cover in eastern Europe finds that the region's forests have recovered significantly since the collapse of communism. Fall of Communism Renewed Europe's Forests Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090310094500 Tue, 10 Mar 2009 09:45:00 EST Getty Images | Coral reefs are healthiest in regions of low and high economic development, research finds. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/09/coral-reef-economic.html Coral reefs and the fish they support do best in regions of low and high economic development, research finds. Fish Fare Best at Economic Extremes Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090309091500 Mon, 09 Mar 2009 09:15:00 EST Tim McClanahan | Seven new species of bamboo coral are discovered deep in the ocean off Hawaii. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/06/deep-sea-coral.html Seven new species of bamboo coral are discovered by scientists roving in a deep sea submersible off Hawaii. Seven New Coral Species ID'd Off Hawaii Associated Press earth 20090306131500 Fri, 06 Mar 2009 13:15:00 EST Hawaii Deep-Sea Coral Expedition 2007/NOAA | Newly released footage shows elusive Javan rhinos wallowing in the mud in Indonesia. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/06/javan-rhino-camera.html Newly released footage shows elusive Javan rhinos wallowing in the mud in Indonesia. Rare Javan Rhinos Captured on Film AFP earth 20090306123030 Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:30:30 EST WWF | The finding of a tropical turtle in the Arctic suggests the region was once much balmier. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/06/arctic-turtle-fossil.html The finding of a tropical turtle in the Arctic suggests the region was once a much balmier place. Tropical Turtle Fossil Found in the Arctic Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090306090000 Fri, 06 Mar 2009 09:00:00 EST University of Rochester | The Amazon's carbon reservoirs are being depleted by drought, research shows. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/05/amazon-drought-climate.html The Amazon rain forest's vast carbon reservoirs are being depleted by drought in an ecological double-whammy. Drought Threatens Amazon, Speeds Warming AFP earth 20090305153000 Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:30:00 EST Peter van der Steen | Hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean are found to strengthen when the moon is new or full. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/05/moon-hurricane.html Hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean are found to strengthen 49 percent more often when the moon was in its new or full phase. Lunar Cycle Turns Hurricanes Into Beasts Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090305091500 Thu, 05 Mar 2009 09:15:00 EST iStockPhoto | Three out of four bird species in Europe are facing decline under warming, research shows. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/04/birds-global-warming.html Three out of four bird species in Europe are facing decline under warming, new research shows. Birds Facing Dire Future Under Warming AFP earth 20090304151500 Wed, 04 Mar 2009 15:15:00 EST iStockPhoto | Some whales do double-duty when it comes to "seeing" their surroundings. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/04/whales-sonar.html Some whales do double-duty when it comes to "seeing" their surroundings. Whale Sonar: Two Pings Are Better Than One AFP earth 20090304104500 Wed, 04 Mar 2009 10:45:00 EST Getty Images | Cacti in Arizona will be injected with radio frequency ID tags to prevent theft. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/04/cactus-id-chips.html Cacti will be injected with radio frequency identification tags in an Arizona park to try and discourage theft. Radio ID Chips Help Stem Cacti Theft Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20090304100000 Wed, 04 Mar 2009 10:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | A new class of chemicals takes part of the blame for feminized male fish. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/04/male-female-fish.html A new class of chemicals takes part of the blame for feminized male fish that are appearing around the world. Worldwide She-Male Fish Mystery Widens Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090304093000 Wed, 04 Mar 2009 09:30:00 EST iStockPhoto | When water is polluted with nitrate, animals emit the greenhouse gas, nitrous oxide. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/03/sea-creatures-gas.html When water becomes polluted with nitrate, animals including snails and mussels emit the greenhouse gas, nitrous oxide. Underwater Creatures Emit Laughing Gas AFP earth 20090303150000 Tue, 03 Mar 2009 15:00:00 EST Getty Images | It may keep icy roads safe for drivers, but road salt has a flip side that's not so sunny. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/03/road-salt-environment.html It keeps the roads safe for winter drivers, but road salt has a flip side that's not so sunny. Road Salt Seeps Into Rivers, Lakes Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090303104500 Tue, 03 Mar 2009 10:45:00 EST AP Photo | Tags, traps, pyrotechnics: just another day in the life of a California bear protector. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/03/bear-yosemite.html Tags, traps, pyrotechnics: just another day in the life of a California bear protector. Interview: Bear Boss, Yosemite National Park Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20090303095000 Tue, 03 Mar 2009 09:50:00 EST Ryan M. Leahy | Researchers argue that global warming may have actually slowed since around 2001. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/02/global-warming-pause.html The planet has been steadily warming since the 1970s, but researchers argue that warming may have actually slowed since around 2001. Global Warming: On Hold? Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090302121500 Mon, 02 Mar 2009 12:15:00 EST AP Photo/Seth Wenig | The Little Ice Age may have been brought about by the spread of wetlands. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/03/02/swamps-ice-age.html A period of dramatic cooling from 1550 to 1850 known as the Little Ice Age may have been brought about by the global spread of wetlands, according to a new study. Swampy Expansion Spurred Mini Ice Age Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090302110000 Mon, 02 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | Once Greenland catches up with the rest of the warming world, sea levels could swell. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/27/greenland-warming-climate.html Greenland hasn't been keeping apace with the rest of the warming world, but scientists warn once it does, it could wreak havoc on sea levels. Greenland Warming Lags, But Bound to Catch Up Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090227143000 Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:30:00 EST iStockPhoto | A fast-spreading fungus threatens France's prehistoric Lascaux cave drawings. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/27/france-cave-fungus.html Scientists discuss how to stop the spread of fungus stains -- aggravated by global warming -- that threaten France's prehistoric Lascaux cave drawings. Fungus Threatens Ancient French Cave Art Jenny Barchfield, Associated Press earth 20090227113000 Fri, 27 Feb 2009 11:30:00 EST AP Photo/Pierre Andrieu | Exposure to certain toxic chemicals may be falling among Americans, suggests a new study. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/26/toxic-chemicals.html Exposure to certain toxic chemicals may be falling among Americans, suggests a new study. But is it a genuine trend? Toxin Levels May Be Falling Among Americans Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090226092000 Thu, 26 Feb 2009 09:20:00 EST iStockPhoto | Big changes in ocean circulation can drive opposite climate extremes in the two hemispheres. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/25/climate-change-warning.html Big changes in ocean circulation can prompt the two hemispheres to plunge into opposite climate extremes. Ocean Circulation Triggers 'Seesaw' Climate AFP earth 20090225153000 Wed, 25 Feb 2009 15:30:00 EST Getty Images | Glaciers at western Antarctica's edge -- not just the Antarctic Peninsula -- are melting. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/25/antarctica-glacier-melt.html Glaciers at the western area of Antarctica -- not just the Antarctic Peninsula -- are slipping into the sea, scientists report. Vaster Regions of Antarctica Melting Into Sea Eliane Engeler, Associated Press earth 20090225121500 Wed, 25 Feb 2009 12:15:00 EST Getty Images | Wildfires may help fight global warming in the long run, researchers claim. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/25/wildfire-drought-warming.html Drought-induced wildfires may help fight global warming in the long run by burying carbon-rich charcoal and ash, claims new research. Wildfires Could Curb Climate Change Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090225093000 Wed, 25 Feb 2009 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | Is it possible that the consequences of global warming have been underestimated? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/24/climate-change-warning.html Is it possible that the potential consequences of global warming have been underestimated? Climate Change Panel Issues New Warning Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20090224133000 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 13:30:00 EST iStockPhoto | For plants in temperate regions, global warming brings good news and bad. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/24/climate-change-plants.html With warming temperatures, the ground in some areas is more likely to thaw and re-freeze several times a season. For plants, that's good news and bad. Climate Change Can Supercharge Plant Growth Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090224081500 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 08:15:00 EST iStockPhoto | Genetically engineered corn genes are found to have spread to crops in Mexico. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/23/biotech-corn.html Genetically engineered corn genes are found to have spread to traditional crops in Mexico, confirming earlier research that had been refuted. GM Crop Genes Contaminate Mexican Corn AFP earth 20090223160000 Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST AP Photo/Gregory Bull | Plankton sheets and red tides form in the ocean as accidents of circulation. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/23/red-tide-plankton.html Plankton sheets and red tides form in the ocean as an accident of circulation, scientists propose. Ocean's Vital Plankton Sheets Form by 'Mishap' Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090223101500 Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:15:00 EST Science/MIT/Roman Stocker | Was the flooding of the Black Sea 9,500 years ago of biblical proportions? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/19/black-sea-flood.html Whether the flooding of the Black Sea 9,500 years ago was of biblical proportions remains a matter of debate. Ancient Black Sea Flood: Nuisance or Calamity? Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090219163000 Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:30:00 EST iStockPhoto | A century after Amundsen, today's Antarctica comes complete with Internet access and gourmet meals. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/19/antarctica-amenities.html A century after Amundsen and Scott, today's Antarctica comes complete with Internet access and regular meals. Modern Antarctica Has All the Amenities AFP earth 20090219103000 Thu, 19 Feb 2009 10:30:00 EST AP Photo | If deforested tropical regions are given some alone time, they show a surprising ability to bounce back. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/18/deforestation-trees.html If deforested tropical regions are given a little alone time, they show a surprising ability to bounce back. Tropical Forests Recover From Clear-Cutting Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090218130000 Wed, 18 Feb 2009 13:00:00 EST AP Photo | A newly developed rear bike wheel turns any pedal bike into a hybrid electric bike. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/18/green-wheel-bike.html A newly developed rear bike wheel turns any pedal bike into a hybrid electric bike. GreenWheel Turns Pedal Bike Into Electric Hog Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20090218091500 Wed, 18 Feb 2009 09:15:00 EST MIT Media Lab | Cold-blooded animals' ability to stay cool will become tougher with warming, research shows. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/17/cold-blooded-warming.html New modeling shows that the main priority of cold-blooded animals is staying cool, which will become tougher with warming. Reptiles May Overheat in Warmer Future Dani Cooper, ABC Science Online earth 20090217160000 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST Joe Raedle/Getty Images | A new "Grand Unified Theory" of mass extinctions suggests Earth is entering a new one. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/17/mass-extinction-theory.html Is Earth entering a sixth mass extinction? A new "Grand Unified Theory" of mass extinctions suggests it could be so. Mass Extinctions May Follow One-Two Punch Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090217113000 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 11:30:00 EST Lunar and Planetary Institute | Climate change's influence on malaria is more complicated than previously thought. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/17/malaria-climate-change.html Climate change contributes to the spread of malaria in a more complicated way than previously thought. Fluctuating Temperatures Affect Malaria Spread Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090217101500 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 10:15:00 EST iStock Photo | As drinking water becomes more scarce it's also likely to become more polluted. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/17/drinking-water.html As drinking water becomes more scarce it's also going to become more polluted with the acidic mine tailings, says new research. Water Supply to Become More Corrosive Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090217093000 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 09:30:00 EST iStock Photo | A British team plans to raft and wade to the Arctic Circle to measure ice thickness. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/11/arctic-cap-explore.html A British team plans to raft and wade to the Arctic Circle to measure the thickness of the ice cap. Explorers to Measure Ice Loss at Arctic Circle AFP earth 20090211124500 Wed, 11 Feb 2009 12:45:00 EST AP Photo | More than half the bird species in North America are spending winters 35 miles farther north. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/10/birds-climate-change.html More than half the bird species in North America are spending winters 35 miles farther north, according to a report. Birds Shifting North as Planet Warms Dina Cappiello, Associated Press earth 20090210114500 Tue, 10 Feb 2009 11:45:00 EST iStockPhoto | The intensity of wildfires raging in Australia is linked to climate change, say scientists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/09/australia-wildfires.html The intensity of wildfires sweeping across Australia is linked to climate change, say scientists. Australia Wildfires Made Fierce by Climate Change Neil Sands, AFP earth 20090209141500 Mon, 09 Feb 2009 14:15:00 EST AP Photo | On the 200th anniversary of Darwin's birth, a new exhibit reflects on his life and legacy. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/09/darwin-anniversary.html On the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin's birthday, a new exhibit reflects on his life and legacy. Darwin at 200: Still Evolving Gregory Katz, Associated Press earth 20090209103000 Mon, 09 Feb 2009 10:30:00 EST AP Photo | Changes in the tequila industry damage the environment and small farmers. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/09/tequila-agriculture.html Changes in the tequila industry are causing damage to both the environment and the social structure of the region of Mexico that grows agave. Tequila Growers Hurting as Industry Turns to Big Farms Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090209101500 Mon, 09 Feb 2009 10:15:00 EST Getty Images | A warming American West puts out a welcome sign to invasive plants, say researchers. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/06/climate-change-weeds.html A warming American West puts out a welcome sign to invasive plants, say researchers. Climate Change May Reshuffle Western Weeds Mike Stark, Associated Press earth 20090206103000 Fri, 06 Feb 2009 10:30:00 EST AP Photo | Deforestation is rising again in Brazil following a decline in the last few years. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/06/brazil-rainforest.html Deforestation is rising again in Brazil following an 18 percent decline in the last few years. Deforestation Ticks Up Again in Brazil Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090206100000 Fri, 06 Feb 2009 10:00:00 EST Getty Images | Some Chinese scientists blame a man-made dam for last year's devastating quake. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/05/china-quake-dam.html Some Chinese scientists blame a man-made dam for last year's devastating earthquake. Did Dam Trigger 2008 Sichuan Quake? AFP earth 20090205113030 Thu, 05 Feb 2009 11:30:30 EST AP Photo | A deep sea observatory will monitor how climate change affects marine life. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/05/deep-sea-lab.html A deep sea observatory that looks like a giant metal pyramid will monitor how climate change affects marine life. Deep Sea Web Camera to Monitor Climate Change Jason Dearen, Associated Press earth 20090205113000 Thu, 05 Feb 2009 11:30:00 EST AP Photo/MBARI | Canada and Mexico are at least partly to blame for ozone woes in the U.S. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/05/ozone-border.html A new study shows that Canada and Mexico are at least partly to blame for ozone woes in the United States. But is the reverse also true? Canada, Mexico Sully U.S. Skies With Ozone Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090205103000 Thu, 05 Feb 2009 10:30:00 EST AP Photo | Animal life first may have appeared tens of millions of years earlier than thought. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/04/fossils-life.html Animal life first appeared on Earth tens of millions of years earlier than thought, say scientists. Fossils Push Animal Life Back Millions of Years AFP earth 20090204140000 Wed, 04 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST Getty Images | Part of what may have caused the Permian mass extinction was toxic amounts of carbon. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/04/volcano-mass-extinction.html When a supervolcano rained down on Earth, part of what may have killed 90 percent of all life was toxic amounts of carbon. Toxic Gases Caused World's Worst Extinction Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090204100000 Wed, 04 Feb 2009 10:00:00 EST Lunar and Planetary Institute | The skeleton of a now-extinct whale reveals it lived partly on land, and partly at sea. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/04/whale-fossil.html The skeleton of a now-extinct whale reveals it lived partly on land, and partly at sea. Ancient Whale Gave Birth on Land Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20090204091500 Wed, 04 Feb 2009 09:15:00 EST Philip Gingerich, University of Michigan Museum of Paleontology | A new satellite will track animals, monitor temps, and aid search-and-rescue efforts. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/03/weather-satellite.html A new satellite includes instruments that can track migrating animals, collect ocean temperature data from buoys and assist search-and-rescue efforts. Weather Satellite Tracks Whales, Birds to Boot Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20090203101530 Tue, 03 Feb 2009 10:15:30 EST Lockheed Martin | "Silent earthquakes" appear to be building up stress along the Cascadia fault. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/02/slow-slip-quakes.html So-called "silent earthquakes" appear to be building up huge amounts of stress along the Cascadia fault. Silent Quakes Build Stress Along Mega Fault Line Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090202121530 Mon, 02 Feb 2009 12:15:30 EST Getty Images | Geologists monitoring Mount Redoubt notice a growing hole in its northern glacier. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/02/02/mount-redoubt-volcano.html Geologists monitoring Mount Redoubt for signs of an eruption notice a growing hole in its northern glacier. Melting Glacier Shows Heat Under Alaskan Volcano Dan Joling, Associated Press earth 20090202111500 Mon, 02 Feb 2009 11:15:00 EST USGS | Scientists propose dumping crop remains at sea to sequester carbon. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/30/carbon-sequestration.html Dumping crop remains at sea could be one way to sequester carbon, scientists propose. Dumping Crops at Sea Proposed as Way to Bury Carbon Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090130141500 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 14:15:00 EST AP Photo | As geologists warn an eruption at Mount Redoubt is imminent, Alaskans get ready. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/30/mount-redoubt-volcano.html As geologists warn an eruption at Mount Redoubt is imminent, Alaskans get ready. Alaskans Brace for Possible Eruption Dan Joling, Associated Press earth 20090130101500 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 10:15:00 EST USGS | Scientists consult a strange source -- cosmic rays -- to predict winter weather. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/30/weather-underground.html Without getting a weather report -- or even stepping outside -- scientists have found a way to predict when a winter storm is on its way. Underground Particles Forecast Winter Storms Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20090130090000 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 09:00:00 EST AP Photo | Mount Redoubt in Alaska is simmering and geologists warn an eruption may be imminent. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/29/alaska-volcano.html Mount Redoubt in Alaska is simmering and geologists warn an eruption may be imminent. Alaska Volcano Appears Close to Eruption Associated Press earth 20090129134530 Thu, 29 Jan 2009 13:45:30 EST AP Photo/Al Grillo | Climate change once cut off flow between the Great lakes, suggesting it could happen again. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/29/great-lakes-warming.html Between 7900 and 7500 years ago, climate change cut off flow between the Great lakes, suggesting the same could happen again. Climate Change Could Drain Great Lakes Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090129101500 Thu, 29 Jan 2009 10:15:00 EST AP Photo | The atmosphere "remembers" a hurricane for months before it recovers. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/29/hurricane-climate.html The atmosphere "remembers" a hurricane for one to two months before it recovers back to its normal state, suggests new research. Hurricanes' Climate Footprint Felt for Months Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090129090000 Thu, 29 Jan 2009 09:00:00 EST NOAA | As people in parched regions store water, mosquitoes find new homes. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/27/mosquito-disease-warming.html As people in increasingly parched regions of Australia store water, disease-carrying mosquitoes find new homes. Human Adaptation to Climate Change Aids Mosquito Spread AFP earth 20090127133000 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 13:30:00 EST AP Photo | A small population of mountain gorillas is growing in the Democratic Republic of Congo. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/27/mountain-gorillas.html A small population of mountain gorillas is growing despite bloody conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Congo Gorillas Thriving Despite War AFP earth 20090127120000 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 12:00:00 EST AP Photo | Climate changes are "largely irreversible" concludes a new NOAA report. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/27/global-warming.html Changes in surface temperature, rainfall and sea level are "largely irreversible" concludes a new NOAA report. Climate Change Irreversible For Next 1,000 Years AFP earth 20090127101500 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 10:15:00 EST iStockPhoto | Are frogs being eaten to extinction? Maybe so, suggests a new study. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/27/frog-extinction.html Are frogs being eaten to extinction? A new study blames the international trade in frog meat for some species' decline. Global Appetite for Frog Legs Threatens Species Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20090127090000 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 09:00:00 EST iStockPhoto | Projections show that ocean dead zones could reach massive levels. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/26/ocean-dead-zones.html Projections show that dead zones in the world's oceans could reach massive levels, should warming continue. Ocean Dead Zones Could Approach Mass Extinction Levels Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090126111500 Mon, 26 Jan 2009 11:15:00 EST AP Photo/Dr. Scott M. Lieberman | Climate change is having a dramatic impact on America's old-growth forests. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/23/dying-trees-forest.html Climate change is having a dramatic impact on old-growth forests in Colorado and regions west. Warming Doubles Tree Deaths in Western U.S. AFP earth 20090123120500 Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:05:00 EST P. van Mantgem | Large earthquakes can trigger volcanic eruptions for up to a year afterward. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/23/volcanoes-earthquakes.html A new study of the largest earthquakes on record shows they can trigger eruptions for up to a year afterward. Mega-Quakes Prime Volcanoes for Eruption Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090123090030 Fri, 23 Jan 2009 09:00:30 EST David Pyle, Oxford University | Americans in cities with cleaned up air live longer, research finds. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/22/air-pollution-health.html Americans in cities with cleaned up air lived three years longer, on average, with five months owed to cleaner air. Reducing Pollution Extends Life Expectancy AFP earth 20090122114500 Thu, 22 Jan 2009 11:45:00 EST AP Photo/Blair Godbout | Planting a tree near your home translates in energy savings, at least in Calif. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/22/trees-home-shade.html Planting a tree near your home directly translates in energy savings, research finds, at least in sunny California. Planting Trees Saves Cash, Research Confirms Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090122104500 Thu, 22 Jan 2009 10:45:00 EST Getty Images | A newly found fault in eastern Ark. could trigger a major quake near a gas pipeline. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/22/arkansas-earthquake.html A previously unknown fault in eastern Arkansas could trigger a major quake near a natural gas pipeline. New Fault Spells Quake Trouble for Ark. Jon Gambrell, Associated Press earth 20090122103030 Thu, 22 Jan 2009 10:30:30 EST AP Photo | No region of Antarctica is safe from climate change, suggests new research. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/21/antarctica-warming.html No region of the world's iciest continent is safe from climate change, suggests a picture-changing new study. Antarctic Warming Is Continent-Wide AFP earth 20090121150000 Wed, 21 Jan 2009 15:00:00 EST Uriel Sinai/Getty Images | Remains of a lizard-like reptile suggests New Zealand was not once submerged. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/21/lizard-new-zealand.html Fossilized remains of a lizard-like reptile in New Zealand suggest the land mass was not completely underwater several million years ago. Lizard Find Suggests New Zealand Never Fully Submerged Carmelo Amalfi, ABC Science Online earth 20090121123000 Wed, 21 Jan 2009 12:30:00 EST AP Photo/Karori Sanctuary | By the end of the 21st century, the currently hottest weather will become the norm. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/21/heat-temperatures.html By the end of the 21st century, the hottest weather in recent history will become the norm, new research warns. Heat to Become Major Threat by Century's End Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090121093000 Wed, 21 Jan 2009 09:30:00 EST AP Photo/Prakash Hatvalne | Ancient quakes and floods once pushed people out of what is now Peru. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/20/earthquake-flood-peru.html Ancient earthquakes and floods, followed by blowing sand, once pushed people out of an area that is now in Peru. Natural Disasters Doomed Early Civilization AFP earth 20090120133030 Tue, 20 Jan 2009 13:30:30 EST AP Photo/Field Museum | Gulf Arab states should take advantage of solar power, industrialists say. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/20/arab-solar-energy.html Oil-rich Gulf Arab states should take advantage of their abundant sunshine to generate solar power, industrialists say. Sun Could Power Arab States Ali Khalil, AFP earth 20090120133000 Tue, 20 Jan 2009 13:30:00 EST Getty Images | Will used coffee grounds be the next big thing in biofuels? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/20/coffee-biofuel.html Will used coffee grounds be the next big thing in biofuels? Coffee Could Fuel You, and Your Car Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090120091500 Tue, 20 Jan 2009 09:15:00 EST Getty Images | Fish excrement contributes between 3 and 15 percent of carbonate in oceans. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/15/fish-poop-ocean.html Marine fish excrement contributes between 3 and 15 percent of carbonate in oceans, decreasing ocean acidity. Fish Poop Helps Balance Ocean Acidity Associated Press earth 20090115150000 Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:00:00 EST Getty Images | Scientists test the claim that human hair helps plants grow. Guess what? It worked. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/15/hair-fertilizer.html Scientists test the claim that human hair helps plants grow. Guess what? It worked. Human Hair: The Next Green Fertilizer? Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090115092030 Thu, 15 Jan 2009 09:20:30 EST Getty Images | Lightning patterns near the cores of storms, can help predict hurricane intensity. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/15/hurricane-lightning.html By looking at lightning patterns near the cores of storms, researchers say they can predict hurricane intensity. Lightning Helps Predict Hurricane Fury Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090115091500 Thu, 15 Jan 2009 09:15:00 EST Getty Images | Home wind turbines generate less than a five percent of a household's needs, a survey finds. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/13/home-wind-turbines.html Home wind turbines only generate less than a five percent of electricity a household requires, a new survey finds. Home Wind Turbines Prove Less Effective AFP earth 20090113140000 Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:00:00 EST Peter Macdiarmid/Getty Images | Yet another twist for the climate change story: Earth's pesky magnetic field. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/13/magnetic-field-climate.html Earth's magnetic field adds yet another twist to the ever-more-complex climate change story. Earth's Magnetic Field Changes Climate AFP earth 20090113130030 Tue, 13 Jan 2009 13:00:30 EST NASA | A look at inauguration weather, from the warmest to the hottest to the snowiest. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/13/inauguration-weather.html A look at inauguration weather extremes, from the warmest to the hottest to the snowiest. Inauguration Weather Extremes Through History Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20090113130000 Tue, 13 Jan 2009 13:00:00 EST AP Photo, File | Hunting practices have a big effect on animal populations -- but is it reversible? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/13/hunting-animal-size.html The artificial selection that results from hunting has a big effect on animal populations -- but is it reversible? Human Hunting Shapes Animal Populations Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20090113100000 Tue, 13 Jan 2009 10:00:00 EST AP Photo | Efforts to remove rabbits from an island reveals the hazards of tinkering with ecosystems. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/12/macquarie-island-ecology.html An effort to eradicate rabbits from a World Heritage Site proves it's hazardous to mess with Mother Nature. Effort to Remove Species Creates More Problems AFP earth 20090112124500 Mon, 12 Jan 2009 12:45:00 EST UNESCO/WORLD HERITAGE SITES | Hundreds of small quakes at Yellowstone are a reminder of the giant volcano slumbering beneath. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/12/yellowstone-earthquakes.html Hundreds of small quakes at Yellowstone are a reminder of the giant volcano slumbering beneath. Yellowstone Quakes Shake Loose Eruption Fears Mead Gruver, Associated Press earth 20090112103030 Mon, 12 Jan 2009 10:30:30 EST AP Photo/Wade Payne | Greenland glaciers' shrinking may be leading to a state where melting actually subsides. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/12/greenland-glaciers.html Greenland glaciers' rapid shrinking may be leading to a state where melting actually subsides, tempering Greenland's contribution to sea rise. Greenland Meltdown? Not Necessarily Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090112093000 Mon, 12 Jan 2009 09:30:00 EST Uriel Sinai/Getty Images | Canadian trekkers subsisted on deep fried bacon and butter while setting an Antarctic record. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/09/south-pole-trek.html A trio of Canadian explorers subsisted on deep fried bacon and butter to set a new record trekking across Antarctica. Canadian Trekkers Claim South Pole Record Kristen Gelineau, Associated Press earth 20090109101500 Fri, 09 Jan 2009 10:15:00 EST AP Photo/South Pole Quest | Shiny city surfaces can trap insects drawn to the glint of water. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/09/insects-city-traps.html Reflective surfaces on treacherous city streets can attract insects drawn to the glint of water. But how big a problem is it? Shiny Urban Surfaces Trap Clueless Critters Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20090109094500 Fri, 09 Jan 2009 09:45:00 EST Getty Images | A government study ID's 30 alien species that are likely to spread across the Great Lakes. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/08/great-lakes-invasive.html A government study ID's 30 nonnative species that are likely to spread across the Great Lakes in coming years. Great Lakes Facing Wide Alien Species Invasion John Flesher, Associated Press earth 20090108110000 Thu, 08 Jan 2009 11:00:00 EST AP Photo | Two hundred spectacular sites compete for the new 7 Wonders of Nature. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/07/seven-natural-wonders.html The Grand Canyon, Mount Everest and Loch Ness will vie with more than 200 other spectacular places in the next phase of the global competition for the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Grand Canyon, Loch Ness Vie for 'Wonder' Status Eliane Engeler, Associated Press earth 20090107140030 Wed, 07 Jan 2009 14:00:30 EST Getty Images | The border between the atmosphere and space is closer than scientists once thought. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/07/atmosphere-space.html The border between Earth's atmosphere and outer space is closer to the ground than scientists once thought. Space Is Closer Than You Think Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20090107124500 Wed, 07 Jan 2009 12:45:00 EST Getty Images | Japan plans to explore its seabeds in search of rare metals used in electronics. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/06/japan-seabeds.html Japan plans to explore its seabeds in search of rare metals used in semiconductors and hybrid cars. Japan Taps Seabeds for Rare Metals AFP earth 20090106141500 Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:15:00 EST Getty Images | Three marine areas are slated to be protected as national monuments. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/06/marine-monuments.html Three marine areas, totaling 195,274 square miles, are slated to be protected as national monuments. Bush Establishes 3 New Marine Monuments Dina Cappiello, Associated Press earth 20090106113030 Tue, 06 Jan 2009 11:30:30 EST AP Photo | A new theory suggests Earth has two cores. But not everyone is convinced. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/06/earth-twin-cores.html The driving mechanism for plate tectonics has long been a mystery to geologists. Now a new theory purports to have the answer: Our planet has two inner cores. Did Earth's Twin Cores Spark Plate Tectonics? Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20090106093030 Tue, 06 Jan 2009 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | A pink-and-black Galapagos iguana is ID'd some 179 years after Darwin's visit. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/05/pink-iguana.html A fetching pink-and-black iguana on the Galapagos Islands is identified some 179 years after Darwin's visit. Rare Pink Iguana Evaded Darwin Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20090105161500 Mon, 05 Jan 2009 16:15:00 EST photograph by Gabriele Gentile | A survey finds 1.4 million residents of Hong Kong are thinking about moving. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/05/hong-kong-pollution.html A survey finds 1.4 million residents of Hong Kong are thinking about moving away from the city because of its poor air quality. Pollution May Drive Out One in Five from Hong Kong AFP earth 20090105114500 Mon, 05 Jan 2009 11:45:00 EST Getty Images | The ranges of key corn pests could expand quickly as the world warms. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/01/05/corn-crops-climate.html Climate change projections suggest the ranges of key corn pests could expand quickly as the world warms. Corn Pests May Spread with Warming Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20090105092030 Mon, 05 Jan 2009 09:20:30 EST Getty Images | A new theory ties together three explanations for the disappearance of mammoths. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/31/woolly-mammoth.html A new theory ties together three proposed explanations for the disappearance of mammoths 12,000 years ago. Mammoths Wiped Out by Prehistoric 'Perfect Storm'? Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081231094530 Wed, 31 Dec 2008 09:45:30 EST PLoS | A recap of our 10 favorite video segments of 2008. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/30/top-ten-videos.html As 2008 comes to a close, we offer 10 of our favorite Discovery News video segments of the year. In the mix: the plight of Iditarod dogs, conspiracies that refuse to die, and a truck that drives itself. Top 10 Discovery News Videos of 2008 Discovery News earth 20081230164500 Tue, 30 Dec 2008 16:45:00 EST DCI | Yellowstone is jostled by a host of small earthquakes for a third straight day. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/30/yellowstone-earthquakes.html Yellowstone National Park was jostled by a host of small earthquakes for a third straight day Monday, and scientists watched closely to see whether the more than 250 tremors were a sign of something bigger to come. Swarm of Yellowstone Quakes Baffles Scientists Mead Gruver, Discovery News earth 20081230124530 Tue, 30 Dec 2008 12:45:30 EST AP Photo/Wade Payne | Warming makes infected dog ticks more likely to bite people, suggests new research. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/30/ticks-disease-climate.html Warmer weather changes the behavior of dog ticks, making them more likely to bite humans and more likely to give people diseases, suggests new research. Warmer Temps Could Spread Tick-Borne Disease Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20081230114530 Tue, 30 Dec 2008 11:45:30 EST Getty Images | Natural disasters killed more than 220,000 people in 2008, among the worst years on record. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/29/natural-disasters.html Natural disasters killed over 220,000 people in 2008, making it one of the most devastating years on record. 2008: Year of the Natural Disaster? AFP earth 20081229140030 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 14:00:30 EST Getty Images | Seeding the atmosphere with aerosols could help release heat into space. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/29/aerosols-climate-change.html It won't cure global warming, but a group of scientists have a plan that might buy some time: seeding the atmosphere with aerosols that in theory should cause the planet to release more heat into space. Sprayed Aerosols Could Ease Climate Woes Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20081229120030 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 12:00:30 EST Getty Images | Clues preserved in an ancient cave link the fall of the Roman Empire with drought. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/29/roman-empire-cave.html Climate clues preserved in a Jerusalem cave suggest the fall of the Roman Empire coincided with a significant drop in rainfall. Did Drought Help End Roman Rule? Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20081229093030 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | A massive spill at a Tenn. power plant illustrates the risks of clean coal tech. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/25/tennessee-coal-ash.html A massive spill of coal ash waste at a Tennessee power plant illustrates the risks of clean coal technology. Tenn. Sludge Spill Challenges 'Clean Coal' Future Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081225101530 Thu, 25 Dec 2008 10:15:30 EST AP Photo/Wade Payne | An environmental disaster unfolds in Tennessee. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/24/tennessee-spill.html An environmental disaster unfolds in Tennessee after the rupture of a coal-fired power plant's holding pond. BLOG: Dike Burst Spills 525 Million Gallons of Sludge Treehugger.com earth 20081224150030 Wed, 24 Dec 2008 15:00:30 EST AP Photo/Wade Payne | Life on Earth has evolved in fits and starts, according to controversial new research. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/23/life-earth-evolution.html Life on Earth has evolved in fits and starts, according to controversial new research. On Earth, Evolution Booms in Bursts AFP earth 20081223120030 Tue, 23 Dec 2008 12:00:30 EST Getty Images | Particles spewed by erupting volcanoes have periodically cooled the tropics for centuries. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/22/volcanoes-tropics.html Particles spewed by erupting volcanoes have periodically cooled the tropics for the past 450 years. Tropics Cooled by Volcanic Eruptions AFP earth 20081222144030 Mon, 22 Dec 2008 14:40:30 EST Getty Images | The demise of the Incas and Aztecs may have sparked global climate change. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/22/aztec-climate-change.html The demise of the Aztec and Incan Empires may have sparked one of the first instances of human-induced climate change. Fall of Empires Hastened 'Little Ice Age' Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081222090030 Mon, 22 Dec 2008 09:00:30 EST Getty Images | The ever-booming meat industry is responsible for the Gulf dead zone, say scientists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/18/meat-dead-zone.html The ever-booming meat industry is responsible for an ever-growing Gulf dead zone, say scientists. America's Meat Habit Feeds Gulf Dead Zone Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081218104530 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 10:45:30 EST NOAA | Rising CO2 levels in the oceans is likely to make the Humboldt squid lethargic. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/18/jumbo-squid-warming.html Rising CO2 levels in the oceans is likely to harm the Humboldt squid, according to research that shows increased acidity makes the animal more lethargic. High-Energy Jumbo Squid at Risk With Warming Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20081218091500 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 09:15:00 EST Rui Rosa | Periodic breaches in Earth's magnetic field may be the norm during the coming solar cycle. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/17/earth-magnetic-field.html Periodic breaches in Earth's magnetic field may be the norm during the next solar cycle. Earth's Magnetic Field Flawed Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20081217101530 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 10:15:30 EST Getty Images | Extreme heat is among the worst natural threats in the United States. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/17/weather-death-map.html Hurricanes and earthquakes don't claim as many lives as extreme heat, according to a new study of mortality from natural threats. U.S. 'Death Map': Heat Deadlier Than Storms AFP earth 20081217093030 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | More than half of the 2 trillion tons of recent Arctic land ice melt occurred in Greenland. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/16/arctic-ice-melt.html More than half of the 2 trillion tons of recent Arctic land ice melt occurred in Greenland, based on NASA satellite readings. Two Trillion Tons of Land Ice Melted Since 2003 Associated Press earth 20081216110000 Tue, 16 Dec 2008 11:00:00 EST Getty Images | From snakes to giant spiders, hundreds of species are found in the Mekong region. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/15/mekong-rainforest-species.html From snakes to giant spiders, flowers and millipedes, hundreds of species are found in the Mekong region. More Than 1,000 New Species Found in Mekong AFP earth 20081215110000 Mon, 15 Dec 2008 11:00:00 EST WWF| A new machine converts powerful eddies into clean, renewable energy. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/15/current-electricity.html A new machine converts powerful eddies in rivers and oceans into clean, renewable energy. Clean Power Tapped From Swirling Currents Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20081215093000 Mon, 15 Dec 2008 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | Before the Permian-Triassic mass extinction, Earth's magnetism went haywire. Coincidence? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/12/magnetism-extinction.html Just before the Permian-Triassic mass extinction, Earth's magnetic field may have gone haywire. Coincidence? Did Magnetic Blip Trigger Mass Extinction? Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081212124530 Fri, 12 Dec 2008 12:45:30 EST Getty Images | Greenhouse gas emissions are warming the United States more in some places than in others. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/12/warming-north-america.html Greenhouse gas emissions are warming the United States more in some places than in others. North America Warming Unevenly Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20081212113030 Fri, 12 Dec 2008 11:30:30 EST Getty Images | By zeroing in on genes, scientists create rice crops that thrive even in drought. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/11/rice-genes-drought.html By zeroing in on genes, scientists create rice crops that produce twice more than normal rice under dry conditions. Drought-Resistant Rice Genes Make Sturdy Crop Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20081211090000 Thu, 11 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST Getty Images | Carbon emissions are largely to blame for the death of many of the world's reefs, say scientists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/10/coral-reef-death.html Carbon emissions are largely to blame for the death of many of the world's reefs, say scientists. Fifth of World's Corals Dead AFP earth 20081210111530 Wed, 10 Dec 2008 11:15:30 EST Getty Images | As oil reserves dwindle, scientists fear we may use more planet-choking coal. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/10/peak-oil-climate.html As we near the point of running oil reserves dry, more people may turn to coal, which would accelerate the global warming problem. Maxing Out on Oil Could Speed Up Climate Change Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081210094500 Wed, 10 Dec 2008 09:45:00 EST Getty Images | New technology reveals huge potential for geothermal power in East Africa's Great Rift Valley. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/09/rift-valley-geothermal.html New technology reveals huge potential for geothermal power in East Africa's Great Rift Valley. Africa's Rift Valley: Geothermal Gold Mine AFP earth 20081209101500 Tue, 09 Dec 2008 10:15:00 EST Getty Images | Why do some birds lay only one egg in their nest, while others lay 10 or more? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/09/clutch-egg-birds.html Why do some species of birds lay only one egg in their nest, while others lay 10 or more? New research provides the answers. Number of Eggs in a Nest Depends on Climate Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20081209091500 Tue, 09 Dec 2008 09:15:00 EST Cagan Sekercioglu | The massive ancient cave bear was likely done in by climate change. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/08/cave-bear-climate.html The massive ancient cave bear was likely done in by climate change some 13,000 years earlier than researchers have believed. Cave Bears Vanished Earlier Under Climate Change Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20081208093000 Mon, 08 Dec 2008 09:30:00 EST Getty Images/DEA PICTURE LIBRARY | Asteroids crashing into the ancient oceans may have helped give rise to the first life on Earth. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/08/asteroid-life.html A new experiment suggests asteroids crashing into the ancient oceans may have helped give rise to the first life on Earth. Asteroid Impacts Gave Crucial Spark to Early Life Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081208091530 Mon, 08 Dec 2008 09:15:30 EST Getty Images | NASA prepares to launch a spacecraft to track CO2 on Earth from space. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/05/carbon-dioxide-space.html NASA prepares to launch a spacecraft to track carbon dioxide on Earth from space. NASA Space Probe to Track CO2 on Earth Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20081205124500 Fri, 05 Dec 2008 12:45:00 EST NASA | Controlled burns of carbon-hoarding peat bogs could actually boost carbon storage. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/05/peat-bog-carbon.html Controlled burns of carbon-hoarding peat bogs could actually create more carbon storage, say some researchers. For Carbon Storage, Burn the Bogs? Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081205111530 Fri, 05 Dec 2008 11:15:30 EST Getty Images | Climate change and rising populations threaten the Colorado River. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/05/colorado-river-drought.html The Colorado River faces drought under climate change and rising populations. Colorado River to Strain Under Demand and Warming Mike Stark, Associated Press earth 20081205111500 Fri, 05 Dec 2008 11:15:00 EST Getty Images | It's every harebrained scheme for itself at the U.N. climate conference's "Mini Sustainable Club." http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/04/climate-change-summit.html It's every harebrained scheme for itself at the U.N. climate conference's "Mini Sustainable Club." Could These Weird Ideas Save the Planet? AFP earth 20081204170030 Thu, 04 Dec 2008 17:00:30 EST AP Photo | Turtles along the Mississippi River are changing their nesting dates thanks to rising temps. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/04/turtles-climate-change.html Turtles along the Mississippi River are dramatically changing their nesting dates in response to rising temps. Turtle Egg-Laying Season Thrown Off by Warming Emily Sohn, Discovery News earth 20081204113030 Thu, 04 Dec 2008 11:30:30 EST Getty Images | Experts debate whether the best way to prevent CO2 from accumulating is to bury it. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/04/carbon-sequester-tech.html Experts debate whether the best way to prevent CO2 from accumulating is to bury it. DOUBLE TAKE: To Bury or Not to Bury CO2 Kurt Zenz House, Julie Shoemaker, Peter Montague, Discovery Tech earth 20081204113000 Thu, 04 Dec 2008 11:30:00 EST Harvard University | Conservationists go to court for the declining Pacific walrus. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/04/walrus-conservation.html Conservationists go to court for the declining Pacific walrus. Walruses Threatened by Shrinking Ice, Group Says Dan Joling, Associated Press earth 20081204093030 Thu, 04 Dec 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | Despite a history of huge quakes, the Sumatra fault remains tense and unpredictable. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/03/sumatra-fault-quake.html Despite a history of devastating quakes, the Sumatra fault remains tense and unpredictable. Sumatra Fault Primed for More Mega-Quakes Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081203130030 Wed, 03 Dec 2008 13:00:30 EST Lisa Christiansen | World leaders get down to business at the annual U.N. climate convention. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/02/climate-change-summit.html World leaders get down to business at the annual U.N. climate convention. S. Africa Takes Stage at Climate Talks AFP earth 20081202173030 Tue, 02 Dec 2008 17:30:30 EST AP Photo | A spectacular new coral species is found amid undersea mountains off the Pacific Northwest. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/12/01/new-coral-species.html A spectacular new coral species is found amid undersea mountains off the Pacific Northwest. New Fan-Like Coral Found in Deep Sea Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20081201093000 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 09:30:00 EST NOAA, WHOI, the Alvin Group, and the 2004 GOA Expedition | Scientists uncover the history atmospheric CO2 in a surprising place: the wine cellar. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/26/wine-carbon-dioxide.html Scientists uncover the history atmospheric CO2 in a surprising place: the wine cellar. Wine's Bouquet Has Overtones of Climate Change Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20081126094530 Wed, 26 Nov 2008 09:45:30 EST Getty Images | Increases in U.S. air pollution cause more lightning strikes during midweek. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/26/lightning-pollution.html Increases in U.S. air pollution cause more lightning strikes during midweek, according to new research. Pollution Causes Most Lightning Strikes at Midweek Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081126090000 Wed, 26 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST AP Photo/Charlie Riedel | Vast wind farms planned in the United States could play a role in modifying weather patterns. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/25/wind-farms-weather.html Vast wind farms planned in the United States could play a role in modifying weather patterns, suggests new research. Mega Wind Farms Could Steer Storms Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081125120000 Tue, 25 Nov 2008 12:00:00 EST AP Photo/ Donna McWilliam | Oceans off the Pacific Northwest are increasing in acidity ten times faster than predicted. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/25/ocean-acidity.html Ocean waters off the Pacific Northwest are increasing in acidity ten times faster than models had predicted. Ocean Acidity Rising at Surprising Pace Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20081125101500 Tue, 25 Nov 2008 10:15:00 EST C. A. Pfister | Scientists track parasites that infect, swell and then burst the plankton of red tides. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/24/red-tide-parasites.html Scientists track parasites that infect, swell and then burst the plankton of harmful red tides. Red Tides Stemmed by 'Alien'-Like Parasites Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20081124154500 Mon, 24 Nov 2008 15:45:00 EST Science/AAAS | Himalayan glaciers are dwindling much faster than scientists realized. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/24/tibet-glaciers-warming.html New research on ice cores from glaciers in the Himalayas has found disturbing evidence the ice is dwindling faster than scientists realized. Tibetan Glaciers Melting at Stunning Rate Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081124114500 Wed, 24 Nov 2008 11:45:00 EST Getty Images | The tracks of a single-celled organism forces scientists to rethink early evolution. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/20/gromia-cambrian.html Single-celled organisms the size of grapes reveal that fossils once believed to be made by complex organisms may have been formed by primitive ones. Single-Celled Giant Upends Early Evolution Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081120123000 Thu, 20 Nov 2008 12:30:00 EST Matz/NOAA /Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute | A giant asteroid may have triggered a tsunami that struck New York more than 2,000 years ago. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/20/asteroid-tsunami.html A giant asteroid may have been the source of a tsunami that struck what is now New York City more than 2,000 years ago. Did Asteroid Cause Ancient N.Y. Tsunami? Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081120093030 Thu, 20 Nov 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | The world's simplest vision system can be found in tiny marine plankton. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/19/plankton-vision.html The world's simplest vision system can be found in tiny marine plankton. View to a Krill: Secrets of Plankton Eyes AFP earth 20081119151500 Wed, 19 Nov 2008 15:15:00 EST Getty Images | CO2 levels in groundwater are going up faster than they are in the atmosphere, according to a new study. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/18/water-carbon-dioxide.html CO2 levels in groundwater are going up faster than they are in the atmosphere, according to a new study. CO2 Seeping Into Water Supply Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081118113030 Tue, 18 Nov 2008 11:30:30 EST Getty Images | Scientists find intact marine organisms within 100-million-year-old tree resin. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/17/amber-diatom.html Scientists find intact marine organisms within 100-million-year-old tree resin. Plankton Found in 100-Million-Year-Old Amber AFP earth 20081117160000 Mon, 17 Nov 2008 16:00:00 EST Laboratoire geosciences Rennes | Japan's controversial whaling fleet may have begun its annual Antarctic hunt. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/17/japan-whaling.html Japan's controversial whaling fleet may have begun its annual Antarctic hunt. Japanese Whalers Set Sail, Say Witnesses AFP earth 20081117150030 Mon, 17 Nov 2008 15:00:30 EST AP Photo/Greenpeace Japan, Yuzuru Oshihara | Some good news: some soil may not release as much CO2 as expected when warmed. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/17/soil-carbon-dioxide.html Finally some good climate change news: some soil may not release as much CO2 as expected when warmed. Soil May Release Less CO2 Than Expected Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20081117121500 Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:15:00 EST Getty Images | Plankton makes up black shale which presents weak zones in Earth's crust. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/17/plankton-continents.html Plankton skeletons lead to the creation of black shale, which, a researcher argues, present weak zones during continental breakups. Tiny Plankton Contribute to Continental Crackups Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081117091500 Mon, 17 Nov 2008 09:15:00 EST Getty Images | Scientists zero in on a cryptic microbe that appears key to the ocean food chain. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/14/ocean-microbe.html Scientists zero in on a cryptic microbe that appears key to the ocean food chain. Elusive Microbe Fertilizes Oceans Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20081114093000 Fri, 14 Nov 2008 09:30:00 EST J.P. Zehr | Life influenced the origin of minerals, just as minerals influenced the origin of life. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/13/minerals-evolution.html Life influenced the origin of minerals, just as minerals influenced the origin of life, say the authors of a compelling new study. Life and Minerals Evolve Together Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081113133030 Thu, 13 Nov 2008 13:30:30 EST Getty Images | The largest disaster drill in U.S. history will have millions of people ducking for cover. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/13/california-quake-drill.html The largest disaster drill in U.S. history will have millions of people ducking for cover. California Stars in Massive Earthquake Drill Alicia Chang, Associated Press earth 20081113093030 Thu, 13 Nov 2008 09:30:30 EST AP Photo | Earth may avert a far projected deep freeze due to greenhouse gases. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/12/earth-freeze-emissions.html Earth may avert a projected deep freeze thousands of years from now due to man-made greenhouse gases. CO2 Emissions May Prevent Projected Ice Age AFP earth 20081112143000 Wed, 12 Nov 2008 14:30:00 EST Getty Images | The Supreme Court rules that the U.S. Navy can continue to use long-range sonar. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/12/sonar-whales-court.html The Supreme Court rules that the U.S. Navy can continue to use long-range sonar. Sonar Ruling Worries Whale Advocates AFP earth 20081112133030 Wed, 12 Nov 2008 13:30:30 EST Getty Images | Offshore wind farms alter ocean currents and stir up ocean nutrients, research shows. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/12/wind-farm-oceans.html Large offshore wind farms stir up ocean nutrients which, in turn, could lead to an uptick in fish populations, researchers suggest. Offshore Wind Power Could Alter Ocean Currents Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081112100000 Wed, 12 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST AP Photo/Heribert Proepper | Microscopic floating plants are teeming in regions of recent Arctic ice melt. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/12/arctic-ocean-plankton.html NASA satellite images show that microscopic floating plants are teeming in regions of recent Arctic ice melt. Arctic Ice Melt Sparks Plankton Blooms Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20081112091500 Wed, 12 Nov 2008 09:15:00 EST NASA/Stanford University | A pearl earring dating to the time of Christ is found by Jerusalem's old city. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/10/earring-jerusalem.html A gold and pearl earring dating to the time of Christ is found under a parking lot next to walls of Jerusalem's old city. Two Thousand-Year-Old Earring Found in Jerusalem Shawna Ohm, Associated Press earth 20081110134000 Mon, 10 Nov 2008 13:40:00 EST AP Photo/IAA | Civilization shouldn't put all its eggs in one basket, says a climate researcher. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/10/climate-engineering.html Civilization shouldn't put all its eggs in one basket, says a climate researcher who worries that there's no backup plan if carbon controls don't work. Plan B for a Warming Planet Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20081110130030 Mon, 10 Nov 2008 13:00:30 EST NASA | The decline in bee populations has not yet harmed crops, research finds. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/10/bees-agriculture.html Research yields surprisingly good news that the decline in bee populations has not yet harmed crops. Bee Decline Not Yet Felt in Agriculture Dani Cooper, ABC Science Online earth 20081110121500 Mon, 10 Nov 2008 12:15:00 EST Getty Images | A new marine census reveals the secret lives of deep-sea creatures. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/10/marine-census-ocean.html A new marine census reveals the secret lives of deep-sea creatures. Ocean Census Reveals Sea Creature Colonies Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20081110093030 Mon, 10 Nov 2008 09:30:30 EST AP Photo/National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research | The current warming trend is unmatched in the time since human civilization began. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/07/climate-change-warming.html We are witnessing the most dramatic climate change since human civilization began, say the authors of a new study. Warming Trend Is Steepest in 5,000 Years AFP earth 20081107153030 Fri, 07 Nov 2008 15:30:30 EST Getty Images | Like ultra-picky sushi chefs, killer whales will go to great lengths for their favorite fish. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/07/killer-whales-salmon.html Like ultra-picky sushi chefs, killer whales will go to great lengths for their favorite fish. Killer Whales Are Discriminating Diners Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20081107113030 Fri, 07 Nov 2008 11:30:30 EST Getty Images | Canada's prime minister offers to work with president-elect Obama to curb global warming. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/06/obama-canada-climate.html Canada's prime minister offers to work with president-elect Obama to curb global warming. Canada Offers Continental Climate Pact AFP earth 20081106160030 Thu, 06 Nov 2008 16:00:30 EST NASA | Thousands of years of Chinese history are illuminated by a single stalagmite. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/06/ancient-cave-china.html Thousands of years of Chinese history are illuminated by a single stalagmite. Ancient Cave Sheds Light on China's Past Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20081106150030 Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:00:30 EST Science/AAAS | Warming is shortening the period when lemmings can burrow in wintry havens. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/06/lemmings-warming.html Global warming is shortening the period when lemmings can burrow in wintry havens. Lemming Numbers Dwindling Under Warming AFP earth 20081106131500 Thu, 06 Nov 2008 13:15:00 EST Getty Images | Air pollution and dust can increase the chances of a tornado forming, new research shows. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/06/tornadoes-pollution.html Air pollution and dust can increase the chances of a tornado forming. Dusty, Polluted Air Spawns Tornadoes Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081106091500 Thu, 06 Nov 2008 09:15:00 EST AP Photo/Michael Ritter | A new plan would cut snowmobile use by 40 percent in Yellowstone. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/04/snowmobiles-yellowstone.html A new plan calls for a 40 percent cut in snowmobile use in Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. Big Reduction of Snowmobiles in Yellowstone Proposed Matthew Brown, Associated Press earth 20081104120000 Tue, 04 Nov 2008 12:00:00 EST AP Photos/Craig Moore | A reddish South American microbe is breathing fuel, say scientists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/04/microbe-fuel.html A reddish South American microbe is breathing fuel, say scientists. Microbes: Fuel of the Future? Richard Ingham, AFP earth 20081104093030 Tue, 04 Nov 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | A network of instruments will monitor the 2,500-year-old Acropolis for weaknesses. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/03/acropolis-earthquakes.html A network of instruments will monitor the 2,500-year-old Acropolis for vulnerabilities to quakes and storms. Acropolis Gets Quake Monitoring System Elena Becatoros, Associated Press earth 20081103094530 Mon, 03 Nov 2008 09:45:30 EST AP Photo/Sebastian Scheiner | A foot-long salamander known as the water monster is threatened by extinction. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/03/water-monster-extinct.html A foot-long salamander known as the water monster is threatened by extinction as its habitat deteriorates in Mexico. Ancient 'Water Monster' Facing Extinction David Coop, Associated Press earth 20081103094500 Mon, 03 Nov 2008 09:45:00 EST AP Photo/Dario Lopez-Mills | The Grand Canyon is millions of years younger than previously thought, argue geologists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/03/grand-canyon-age.html The Grand Canyon is millions of years younger than previously thought, argue geologists who have re-traced the stages of its watery birth. Grand Canyon's Youth Confirmed Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081103091530 Mon, 03 Nov 2008 09:15:30 EST Getty Images | Humans are conclusively to blame for the rise in Arctic and Antarctic temperatures, say scientists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/31/arctic-antarctica-climate.html Humans are conclusively to blame for the rise in Arctic and Antarctic temperatures, say scientists. It's Official: People Are Warming the Poles Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20081031093030 Fri, 31 Oct 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images/NSIDC | A pesticide is found to promote parasites and weaken immune systems among amphibians. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/30/amphibian-pesticides.html A pesticide compound may promote the growth of parasites and a weakening of immune systems among frogs and other amphibians. Pesticides, Fertilizers Linked to Frog Decline Marlowe Hood, AFP earth 20081030150000 Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:00:00 EST Jeff T. Green/Getty Images | What may be one of Earth's first animals was no bigger than a coaster and had eight arms. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/30/eight-arm-animal.html Researchers find the remains of what may be one of Earth's first animals -- and it had eight arms. Eight-Armed Animal Preceded Dinosaurs Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20081030113000 Thu, 30 Oct 2008 11:30:00 EST Maoyan Zhu | Evidence within coastal peat reveals a huge tsunami crashed ashore 600 years ago. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/29/ancient-tsunami.html Evidence within coastal peat reveals a huge tsunami crashed into Thailand and Indonesia 600 years ago. Giant Tsunami Washed Ashore 600 Years Ago AFP earth 20081029154500 Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:45:00 EST Katsushika Hokusai/Getty | Plant fossils dating back 198 million lend clues to the early Jurassic period. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/29/fossilized-plants.html Flora fossils dating back 198 million years offer clues about the period between the mass extinction of the late Triassic and the rise of dinosaurs. Jurassic Plants Uncovered in Utah Mike Stark, Associated Press earth 20081029114500 Wed, 29 Oct 2008 11:45:00 EST AP Photo/Dept. of Natural Resources, Tammy Kikuchi | New research suggests salmon fare equally well on dammed and undammed rivers. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/29/salmon-dam.html New research comparing salmon populations on dammed and undammed rivers suggests the dams don't harm the fish. Dams Appear to Have No Impact on Salmon Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081029093000 Wed, 29 Oct 2008 09:30:00 EST Jeff T. Green/Getty Images | Thieves are stealing the perfect white sands of the Caribbean's beaches. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/28/beach-sand-theft.html The perfect white sand of the Caribbean's beaches has become a target for thieves eager to feed construction projects. Caribbean Sands Dwindling to Theft Danica Coto, Associated Press earth 20081028110000 Tue, 28 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST K. Cerrudo | Spates of cold-weather tornadoes account for more damage than summer storms. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/28/tornado-night-cool.html In the southeastern United States spates of cold-weather tornadoes account for more damage than their summer brethren. Cool Weather Twisters Strike in the Dark Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081028094500 Tue, 28 Oct 2008 09:45:00 EST AP Photo/Theresa Schuch | Twenty-seven percent of species recorded by Thoreau have disappeared from Walden Pond. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/28/walden-pond-flowers.html Researchers return to Walden Pond and find 27 percent of species recorded in Thoreau's survey have disappeared from the area, due to warming. Climate Changing Thoreau's Woods Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20081028090000 Tue, 28 Oct 2008 09:00:00 EST K. Cerrudo | Three of the four amphibian species native to Yellowstone are declining. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/27/amphibians-yellowstone.html Three of the four amphibian species native to Yellowstone are experiencing dangerous declines due to climate change, say researchers. Yellowstone Amphibians Declining Under Climate Change Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20081027173000 Mon, 27 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST Photo by Sarah McMenamin, 2007 | Seven missing Puget Sound orcas could represent the biggest decline in a decade. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/27/missing-orcas.html Seven missing Puget Sound orcas could represent the biggest decline in a decade. Orcas Missing From Puget Sound Thought Dead Phuong Lee, Associated Press earth 20081027130000 Mon, 27 Oct 2008 13:00:00 EST Getty Images | A new study has some encouraging news for people concerned about pesticides in groundwater. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/27/pesticides-groundwater.html A new study has some encouraging news for people concerned about pesticides in groundwater. Pesticides Dropping in Groundwater? Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20081027120030 Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:00:30 EST Getty Images | A 120-mile skating race across Holland will become rarer with warming. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/24/skating-race-warming.html A 120-mile skating race across frozen rivers and canals in Holland will become a rarer event with warming, say researchers. Global Warming Cools Chances for Skating Marathon Mike Corder, Associated Press earth 20081024154500 Fri, 24 Oct 2008 15:45:00 EST Jose Azel/Aurora/Getty Images | Nitrogen trifluoride -- far more insidious than CO2 -- is more prevalent than thought. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/24/greenhouse-gas.html Nitrogen trifluoride -- thousands of times more insidious than CO2 -- is far more prevalent than thought. Potent Greenhouse Gas Worse Than Thought AFP earth 20081024130000 Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:00:00 EST Getty Images | High deer populations may actually support larger populations of smaller creatures. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/24/deer-ecosystem.html Reducing the number of deer may unexpectedly reduce the number of reptiles, amphibians and insects in that area, new research suggests. High Deer Populations May Benefit Crawly Critters Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20081024094500 Fri, 24 Oct 2008 09:45:00 EST AP Photo/Gerry Broome | Scientists try to resolve a long-standing puzzle over when photosynthesis began. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/23/photosynthesis-rock.html New research tries resolve a long-standing puzzle over when life-lending photosynthesis began on Earth. Photosynthesis May Have Started Later Anna Salleh, ABC Science Online earth 20081023103000 Thu, 23 Oct 2008 10:30:00 EST Getty Images | Seeds near the equator are up to 320 times bigger than those further north. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/21/seed-size-climate.html Seeds near the equator are up to 320 times bigger than those at 60 degrees latitude, research finds. Seed Size May Help Predict Climate Change Impact Anna Salleh, ABC Science Online earth 20081021140000 Tue, 21 Oct 2008 14:00:00 EST Getty Images | New research finds that tropical cyclones may sequester carbon. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/21/typhoon-carbon-sequester.html New research finds that tropical cyclones may sequester carbon at the bottom of the ocean. Tropical Cyclones Wash Away Carbon Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081021091500 Tue, 21 Oct 2008 09:15:00 EST Getty Images | In learning how a 2,700-million-year-old rock formed, scientists gain insight into Earth's start. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/20/volcanic-rock-earth.html In learning how a 2,700-million-year-old rock formed, scientists gain new understanding of how Earth took shape. Rock Shows Earth Got Off to Hot Start Dani Cooper, ABC Science Online earth 20081020123000 Mon, 20 Oct 2008 12:30:00 EST Getty Images | The calving and crashing of icebergs is the likely source of mysterious "glacier quakes." http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/16/glacier-earthquakes.html When chunks of ice break off of glaciers and slam into bedrock, quakes up to magnitude 5.1 on the Richter scale rumble through the Earth. Crumbling Glacier Quakes as It Breaks Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081016093000 Thu, 16 Oct 2008 09:30:00 EST Getty Images/NSIDC | Given enough time, climate change can alter the course of plate tectonics. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/15/plate-tectonics-climate.html New evidence has emerged that given enough time, climate change can alter the course of plate tectonics. Climate Change Can Grind Down Plate Tectonics Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081015091500 Wed, 15 Oct 2008 09:15:00 EST Lindsay Schoenbohm, The Ohio State University | Antarctica's Adelie penguins have some special evolutionary abilities, say scientists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/14/antarctica-penguin-dna.html Adelie penguins have been surviving extreme climate change in Antarctica for hundreds of thousands of years. Penguin DNA Suggests Special Climate Coping Anna Salleh, ABC Science Online earth 20081014093030 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | The humble, yet green cycle-rickshaw in India is equipped with a solar battery. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/13/solar-rickshaw.html The humble, yet green cycle-rickshaw in India is equipped with a solar battery. Solar Power Replaces Human Toil in New Rickshaws Elizabeth Roche, AFP earth 20081013110000 Mon, 13 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST MANAN VATSYAYANA/AFP/Getty Images | Surface-level ozone is likely to increase as the planet warms, say researchers. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/13/ozone-pollution-warming.html Surface-level ozone is likely to increase to hazardous levels as the planet warms, say researchers. Ozone Pollution to Worsen Under Climate Change Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081013103000 Mon, 13 Oct 2008 10:30:00 EST David McNew/Getty Images | Tropical species may be even more threatened by warming than polar animals. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/10/tropics-climate-change.html Tropical species may be even more threatened by global warming than animals in the polar regions. Tropical Species Also Threatened by Climate Change Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20081010143000 Fri, 10 Oct 2008 14:30:00 EST Gunnar Brehm | The underwater cacophony made by large ships is killing whales, say scientists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/09/acoustic-pollution-whale.html The underwater cacophony made by large ships is killing whales, say scientists. 'Acoustic Smog' Threatening Whales AFP earth 20081009153030 Thu, 09 Oct 2008 15:30:30 EST Getty Images | Bacteria that break down cellulose and other waste are outfitting fuel cell prototypes. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/09/fuel-cell-waste.html Bacteria that break down cellulose and other waste are outfitting fuel cell prototypes. Bug-Powered Fuel Cells Could Run on Waste Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20081009110000 Thu, 09 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST Getty Images | Deep in the Southern Ocean, scientists count 274 new species of fish, corals and more. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/08/new-marine-species.html Deep in the Southern Ocean, scientists count 274 new species of fish, corals, mollusks and more. Hundreds of New Marine Species Found AFP earth 20081008103030 Wed, 08 Oct 2008 10:30:30 EST Getty Images | After washing up on Brazilian shores, hundreds of penguins get an emergency airlift. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/07/penguin-airlift.html After mysteriously washing up on Brazil's shores, hundreds of penguins get an emergency airlift. Penguins Ride Air Force Jet to South Atlantic Tales Azzoni, Associated Press earth 20081007110030 Tue, 07 Oct 2008 11:00:30 EST Getty Images | A new audio clearinghouse features "ambient soundscapes" from the American West. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/06/wildlife-soundscape.html A Web-based audio clearinghouse will feature "ambient soundscapes" from wild places across the American West. Nature 'Soundscapes' Recorded for Posterity Mike Stark, Associated Press earth 20081006163030 Mon, 06 Oct 2008 16:30:30 EST Getty Images | Scientists estimate a quarter of the world's mammals are threatened with extinction. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/06/endangered-mammals.html A team of scientists estimate a quarter of the world's mammals are threatened with extinction and half are in decline. One in Four Mammals at Risk Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20081006113000 Mon, 06 Oct 2008 11:30:00 EST IUCN || Scientists have a new idea for desalination where you need it: old ships. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/06/ship-desalination.html Scientists have a new idea for desalination where you need it: Re-invent mothballed ships as portable plants. Old Ships Provide Portable Water Source Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20081006104530 Mon, 06 Oct 2008 10:45:30 EST Water Standard | As Alaska's sea otter population plummets, local bald eagles are thriving. But why? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/03/sea-otter-eagle.html As Alaska's sea otter population plummets, local bald eagles are thriving. But why? Otter Decline a Mixed Blessing for Bald Eagles Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20081003110030 Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:00:30 EST Getty Images | Scientists find the last hiding place of life during Earth's worst apocalypse. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/03/permian-extinction.html Scientists find what may have been the last hiding place of life during the planet's worst mass extinction. Where Life Found Refuge During Mass Extinction Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20081003100030 Fri, 03 Oct 2008 10:00:30 EST Tyler Beatty | Marine life is increasingly threatened by the accumulation of so-called microplastics. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/02/marine-plastics.html Marine life is increasingly threatened by the accumulation of so-called microplastics in the environment, say scientists. Tiny Plastic Bits Pose Marine Hazard Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20081002095030 Thu, 02 Oct 2008 09:50:30 EST Getty Images | The federal government proposes listing an entire ecosystem as endangered. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/01/kauai-endangered-species.html The federal government proposes listing an entire ecosystem on a Hawaiian island as endangered, in a new approach to conserving species. Ecosystem May Get Endangered Species Protection David Briscoe/, Associated Press earth 20081001110000 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST Getty Images | A "chemical imbalance" between trees and soil creates a usable electrical charge. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/10/01/tree-power.html A "chemical imbalance" between trees and soil creates a tiny electrical charge. Now scientists are exploiting it for the forest's own good. Tree Power Could Save Forests From Fires Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20081001093030 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 09:30:30 EST MIT | As mounting levels of carbon dioxide acidify the oceans, an undersea clamor is growing. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/30/ocean-acidification.html As mounting levels of carbon dioxide make the oceans more acidic, an undersea clamor is growing. Ocean Acidification Turns Up the Volume Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080930140030 Tue, 30 Sep 2008 14:00:30 EST Getty Images | As fertility rates decline, migration patterns take center stage in population forecasts. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/29/human-migration.html As fertility rates decline, human migration patterns take on new importance in global population shifts. Human Migration Patterns Get Global Forecast Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080929170530 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 17:05:30 EST Getty Images | A company says it has bacteria that can make plastic from sugar as soon as next year. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/26/bacteria-plastic.html A company says it has engineered bacteria that can make plastic from sugar as soon as next year. Bacteria Ready to Make Plastic From Sugar Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20080926100000 Fri, 26 Sep 2008 10:00:00 EST Getty Images | A boundary of air quarantines the Northern Hemisphere's polluted atmosphere. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/26/chemical-equator.html A boundary of air is keeping the polluted atmosphere of the Northern Hemisphere separate from the relatively pristine south. 'Chemical Equator' Keeps Polluted Air in the North Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20080926093030 Fri, 26 Sep 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | Carbon dioxide emissions rose higher in 2007 than worst case scenario predictions. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/25/global-warming-emissions.html Worldwide emissions of carbon dioxide rose higher in 2007 than worst case scenario predictions. Global Warming Gas Emissions Jumped Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20080925150000 Thu, 25 Sep 2008 15:00:00 EST AP Photo | Could global warming dull the blazing colors of New England's fall foliage? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/24/climate-change-foliage.html Could global warming dull the blazing colors of New England's fall foliage? Biologists want to know. 'Leaf Peepers' Study Climate-Foliage Connection Lisa Rathke, Associated Press earth 20080924201530 Wed, 24 Sep 2008 20:15:30 EST Getty Images | Rocky Mountain pine beetles are doing more than killing of large swaths of forest. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/24/mountain-pine-beetle.html The effects of mountain pine beetles in the Rocky Mountains go beyond the killing of large swaths of forest. Beetle Epidemic May Affect Weather, Air Quality Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080924131530 Wed, 24 Sep 2008 13:15:30 EST Getty Images | New fossils of the first land animals suggest there was quite a rush to get ashore. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/24/cambrian-fossils-life.html Newly discovered fossil tracks of the planet's first land animals suggest there was quite a rush to get ashore. But why? Fossils Tell of Mass Exodus From Sea to Land Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20080924093030 Wed, 24 Sep 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | A flock of rubber ducks are released at a melting glacier to try and trace water flow. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/23/rubber-ducks-nasa.html A NASA scientist releases a flock of rubber ducks to try and trace what's happening inside a fast-moving Greenland glacier. NASA Dispatches Rubber Ducks for Science Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20080923110000 Tue, 23 Sep 2008 11:00:00 EST Konrad Steffen, University of Colorado | A California scientist extracts living yeast from ancient amber to brew barrels of pale ale. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/23/ancient-yeast-beer.html A California scientist extracts living yeast from ancient amber to brew barrels of pale ale. Ancient Yeast Reborn in Modern Beer Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20080923093030 Tue, 23 Sep 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | An Australian mountain range was an ocean reef some 650 million years ago. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/22/australia-reef-evolution.html Scientists find a mountain range in Australia that was an underwater reef some 650 million years ago. 650-Million-Year-Old Reef May Offer Evolution Clues AFP earth 20080922130000 Mon, 22 Sep 2008 13:00:00 EST AFP/Getty Images | The receding waves of Hurricane Ike left behind a mystery -- a Civil War-era shipwreck. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/19/hurricane-ike-ship.html The receding waves of Hurricane Ike left behind a mystery -- a ragged, Civil War-era shipwreck. Ike Uncovers Mystery Ship on Ala. Coast Associated Press earth 20080919201500 Fri, 19 Sep 2008 20:15:00 EST AP Photo/Press-Register, Guy Busby | At least nine giant tsunamis have hit Japan in the last 3,000 years. Are more to come? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/19/japan-tsunami.html At least nine giant tsunamis have hit Japan in the last 3,000 years. Are more on the way? Japan's Tsunami History Shows What's in Store Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20080919130030 Fri, 19 Sep 2008 13:00:30 EST Matthew Hornbach | When stressed, plants produce detectable amounts of a chemical form of aspirin. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/19/plants-stress-aspirin.html When stressed, plants produce significant amounts of a chemical form of aspirin, scientists find. Plants Make Aspirin When Under the Weather Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080919094500 Fri, 19 Sep 2008 09:45:00 EST Getty Images | The first-ever population count for kangaroo rats will be taken from outer space. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/18/kangaroo-rat-space.html The first-ever population count for kangaroo rats, an environmental bellwether species, will be taken from outer space. Kangaroo Rats Get Space-Based Census Tracie Cone, Associated Press earth 20080918090800 Thu, 18 Sep 2008 09:08:00 EST AP Photo/James Cook University, Robert Puschendorf | A very hot year damages the ability of soils and plants to absorb carbon dioxide. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/17/grasslands-heat-carbon.html A very hot year damages the ability of soils and plants to absorb carbon dioxide, scientists find, which could speed up the process of global warming. Heat Hinders Ground's Ability to Absorb CO2 AFP earth 20080917142500 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 14:25:00 EST Getty Images | Some families have long known about cactus's water-cleansing properties. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/17/cactus-arsenic-water.html Some desert-based families have long known about cactus's water-cleansing properties, now an engineer is incorporating the plant into filters. Cactus Goo Makes Water Safe Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080917100000 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 10:00:00 EST Getty Images | This year's ozone hole over the Antarctic has surpassed last year's hole in size. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/16/ozone-hole-earth.html This year's ozone hole over the Antarctic has surpassed last year's hole in size, but isn't expected to reach record levels. Ozone Hole Larger Than Last Year AFP earth 20080916140000 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 14:00:00 EST World Meteorological Organization | By adding silica to methane gas, scientists make the energy resource more stable. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/16/powdered-methane.html By adding silica to methane gas, scientists make the compound more stable and a more viable energy source. Powdered Methane Could Help Harness Energy Source Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20080916104500 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 10:45:00 EST Getty Images | Are huge boulders found on a flat South Pacific island the product of ancient devastation? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/16/tsunami-boulder.html Huge boulders found on an otherwise flat South Pacific island are the product of ancient devastation, say geologists. Mega-Tsunami Dumped Tonga's Coral Boulders Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20080916092030 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 09:20:30 EST Matthew Hornbach | A ban on bushmeat hunting ignores the nutritional needs of local people, says a new report. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/16/bushmeat-hunting-africa.html Animal species may be threatened by hunting, but an all-out ban on bushmeat hunting ignores the nutritional needs of local people. Bushmeat Ban Not the Answer Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080916091500 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 09:15:00 EST Beth Wald/Aurora/Getty Images | Using hi-tech methods, scientists determine the ingredients of brown recluse venom. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/15/brown-recluse-spider.html Using hi-tech molecular analysis, scientists figure out the ingredient list of brown recluse venom. Spider Venom Recipe Could Be Key to Antidote Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20080915154530 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 15:45:30 EST Frank Schroeder | The effort is on to help the 140,000 who ignored Hurricane evacuation orders. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/14/hurricane-ike-rescue.html The effort is on to help the 140,000 who ignored evacuation orders and remain in areas ravaged by Hurricane Ike. Rescuers Searching for People Left in Hurricane's Wake Christopher Sherman, Associated Press earth 20080914143000 Sun, 14 Sep 2008 14:30:00 EST AP Photo/Richard Alan Hannon | Hurricane Ike pounded Texas, causing flooded streets and burning buildings. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/13/hurricane-ike.html The huge Hurricane Ike pounded southeast Texas, leaving flooded streets, burning buildings and stranded people in its wake. Rescue Crews Help Stranded After Hurricane Ike Allen G. Breed and Pauline Arrillaga, Associated Press earth 20080913164500 Sat, 13 Sep 2008 16:45:00 EST AP Photo/David J. Phillip | Why are some tropical cyclones small but others, like Ike, super-sized? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/12/hurricane-ike-size.html Why are some tropical cyclones small but others, like Ike, super-sized? Hurricane Ike's Sprawl a Meteorological Mystery Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080912150030 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 15:00:30 EST AP Photo/NASA | Bees are thriving along roadsides that are covered with native plant species. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/12/bee-native-plants.html Bees are thriving along roadsides that are covered with native plant species, research shows. Roadsides Helping Bees Thrive Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080912120000 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST Getty Images | Hurricane Ike's size -- not strength -- could create a potentially huge storm surge. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/12/hurricane-ike-surge.html Meteorologists are watching Hurricane Ike's size -- not strength -- as the main threat since it could create a potentially huge storm surge. Hurricane Ike's Size Poses Huge Surge Risk Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20080912101500 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 10:15:00 EST AP Photo/NASA | The Sichuan earthquake in May doubled the chances that another big tremor will strike. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/12/china-earthquake-fault.html The devastating Sichuan earthquake earlier this year has doubled the chances that another huge tremor may soon rock the region. Fault Shift Leaves China Vulnerable to More Quakes Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20080912093000 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 09:30:00 EST AP Photo | Nearly 40 percent of freshwater fish species in North America are in jeopardy. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/11/fish-species-endangered.html Nearly 40 percent of freshwater fish species in North America are in jeopardy, according to the most detailed evaluation of the conservation status of freshwater fishes in the last 20 years. North American Fish Under Threat Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080911104530 Thu, 11 Sep 2008 10:45:30 EST Getty Images | Another cataclysmic explosion by Vesuvius can't be ruled out, say scientists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/10/vesuvius-pompeii.html Another cataclysmic explosion by Vesuvius can't be ruled out, say scientists. Vesuvius Could Blow Again, Pompeii-Style AFP earth 20080910153030 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 15:30:30 EST Getty Images | Predicting Earth's strongest earthquakes may soon get easier. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/10/earthquake-mud.html Predicting Earth's strongest earthquakes may get easier, thanks to a newly understood connection between giant temblors and ocean floor mud. Mega-Quakes Hit Where Ocean Mud Piles High Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20080910093030 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | See how the Web is subbing for Mother Nature in the world of captive animal breeding. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/09/animal-zoo-mating.html See how the Web is subbing for Mother Nature in the not-so wild world of captive animal breeding. Zoo Animals Try Online Dating Katrina A. Goggins, Associated Press earth 20080909160030 Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:00:30 EST AP Photo | Some sweet-sounding bird songs may carry a sinister message. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/04/bird-song-duet.html Some sweet-sounding bird songs may carry a sinister message, according to a new study on Costa Rican wrens. Songbirds Duel With Duets Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20080904120030 Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:00:30 EST Dale Morris | Iraq's restored swampy southern region will likely become a World Heritage site. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/04/iraq-marshlands.html Iraq's swampy southern region has been partially restored and will likely become a World Heritage site. Iraq's 'Garden of Eden' May Get Global Protection AFP earth 20080904094500 Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:45:00 EST ALI AL-SAADI/AFP/Getty Images | A one-degree rise in ocean temperatures will likely lead a one-third rise in cyclones. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/03/global-warming-cyclones.html A one-degree rise in ocean temperatures will likely lead a one-third rise in the number of cyclones, new research finds. Cyclones to Get Stoked From Global Warming AFP earth 20080903153000 Wed, 03 Sep 2008 15:30:00 EST NOAA via Getty Images | Are Gulf Coast communities doomed by sinking land and rising seas? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/03/hurricanes-gulf-coast.html Are New Orleans and other Gulf Coast communities doomed by subsidence and rising sea levels? Gulf Coast Faces Sea Level-Sinkage Double Whammy Larry O'Hanlon and Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20080903143030 Wed, 03 Sep 2008 14:30:30 EST AP Photo/Bill Haber | Global warming is blamed for Canada's summer ice shelf loss of some 80 square miles. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/03/arctic-ice-shelf.html Canada's summer ice shelf loss now totals more than 80 square miles and researchers blame global warming. Three Ice Shelves Breaking Up in Arctic Michel Comte, AFP earth 20080903140000 Wed, 03 Sep 2008 14:00:00 EST AP Photo/THE CANADIAN PRESS/Bob Weber| The latest way to spot counterfeit wine: Zap it with ions from a particle accelerator. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/03/ion-beam-wine.html The latest way to spot counterfeit wine: Zap it with ions from a particle accelerator. Nuclear Physicists Fight Wine Fraud AFP earth 20080903093030 Wed, 03 Sep 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | This September is proving to be one of the busiest storm seasons yet. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/03/tropical-storms-hurricane.html This September is proving to be one of the busiest storm seasons yet, with all the right storm ingredients in place. Storms Galore: Four Named Storms in the Works Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20080903093000 Wed, 03 Sep 2008 09:30:00 EST AP Photo/NOAA | After its first major test since the 2005 hurricane season, New Orleans is still standing. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/02/gustav-new-orleans.html After its first major test since the 2005 hurricane season, New Orleans is still standing. New Orleans Largely Spared by Gustav Robert Tanner and Vikki Smith, Associated Press earth 20080902073030 Tue, 02 Sep 2008 07:30:30 EST AP Photo/Eric Gay | Gustav comes ashore as a dangerous Category 2 hurricane. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/09/01/gustav-new-orleans.html Gustav comes ashore as a Category 2 hurricane, not as strong as expected, but still dangerous. Hurricane Gustav Fades, Moving Into La. Michael Kunzelman and Mary Foster, Associated Press earth 20080901074530 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 07:45:30 EST AP/NOAA | The mayor of New Orleans orders residents to flee the "storm of the century." http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/31/gustav-new-orleans.html The mayor of New Orleans orders residents to flee the "storm of the century." Powerful Gustav Slams Cuba, Heads for U.S. Will Weissert, Associated Press earth 20080831075000 Sun, 31 Aug 2008 07:50:00 EST AP/NOAA | Young orange clownfish find their anemone homes with a keen sense of smell. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/29/nemo-clownfish-smell.html Young orange clownfish find their anemone homes with a keen sense of smell. Nemo Sniffs His Way Home Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080829114530 Fri, 29 Aug 2008 11:45:30 EST Getty Images | How prepared for Gustav is the U.S. Gulf Coast, three years post-Katrina? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/29/gustav-new-orleans.html How prepared for Gustav is the U.S. Gulf Coast, three years post-Katrina? Lesson Learned? Gulf Coast Girds for Gustav Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20080829090000 Fri, 29 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST AP/NOAA | As the oceans warm, it's not just corals that are suffering. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/28/sea-sponge-climate.html When the sea warms to a threshold temperature of 30 degrees Celsius, it's not just corals that suffer. Sponges Feel the Heat From Climate Change Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080828090030 Thu, 28 Aug 2008 09:00:30 EST Science/AAAS | Residents, tourists and oil workers flee as Gustav slams Jamaica. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/28/gustav-tropical-storm.html Residents, tourists and oil workers flee as Gustav slams Jamaica. Tropical Storm Gustav Swamps Jamaica Howard Campbell, Associated Press earth 20080828090000 Thu, 28 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST AP/NOAA | Tropical Storm Gustav threatens the Louisiana coast. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/27/new-orleans-gustav.html Days before Hurricane Katrina's third anniversary, Tropical Storm Gustav threatens the Louisiana coast. Nervous New Orleans Braces for Tropical Storm Gustav Michael Kunzelman and Tamara Lush, Associated Press earth 20080827194930 Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:49:30 EST NOAA | A project to desalinate ocean water gets final approval, but opposition continues. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/27/desalination-california.html A long-awaited California project to desalinate ocean water into drinking water gets final approval, but environmentalists are still fighting. Desalination Closer to Reality in California Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080827140000 Wed, 27 Aug 2008 14:00:00 EST AP Photo | Buses at the Dem's convention run on beer waste, while Republicans plan to use old furniture. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/27/convention-green-biofuel.html Buses at the Democratic convention are running on beer waste, while Republicans plan to use old furniture. Both Conventions Touted as 'Green' Events AFP earth 20080827091500 Wed, 27 Aug 2008 09:15:00 EST Getty Images | Later this summer, Arctic sea ice may diminish below the record low set last year. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/27/arctic-sea-ice.html With weeks left in the 2008 melt season, Arctic sea ice may diminish below the record low set last year. Arctic Sea Ice Drops to Record Levels Dan Joling, Associated Press earth 20080827090000 Wed, 27 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST Getty Images | Plastic strips on the bottom of a Pennsylvania river could soon generate green energy. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/26/river-power-energy.html In a technological first, wiggling plastic strips on the bottom of a Pennsylvania river could soon generate green energy. Wiggling Plastic at River Bottom to Generate Electricity Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20080826141400 Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:14:00 EST Getty Images | Wind turbines kill bats without striking them by causing a sudden drop in air pressure. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/25/wind-turbine-bats.html The mystery behind how wind turbines kill bats without striking them is solved: it's death by air pressure drop. Wind Turbines Kill Bats Without Impact Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080825120000 Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EST Getty Images | Estimates show the Arctic tundra holds tons of carbon that will be released with warming. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/25/warming-arctic-tundra.html New estimates show that as global warming heats up the Arctic, the tundra may release tons of carbon as carbon dioxide and methane. Arctic Tundra Holds Global Warming Time Bomb Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20080825094500 Mon, 25 Aug 2008 09:45:00 EST Getty Images | New satellite images of Greenland show a 7-mile crack in the Petermann glacier. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/22/greenland-ice-crack.html New satellite images of northern Greenland show a 7-mile-wide crack in the Petermann glacier. Ice Cracks at Greenland's Tip Worry Scientists Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20080822103030 Fri, 22 Aug 2008 10:30:30 EST AP Photo/Byrd Polar Research Center | Research shows heavy rain is key during the forming of tornadoes. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/22/tornado-rain.html Heavy rain has long been recognized as a part of tornadoes, now new research suggests it's key to triggering the destructive funnels to form. Heavy Rain Triggers Destructive Tornadoes Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20080822094500 Fri, 22 Aug 2008 09:45:00 EST Brian Bill/NOAA | Biodegradable plastic has a hidden advantage: Producing it releases less CO2. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/21/green-plastic-renewable.html Biodegradable plastic has an advantage beyond the obvious: Producing it releases less CO2. Biodegradable Plastics Are Good for Atmosphere, Too Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080821170000 Thu, 21 Aug 2008 17:00:00 EST AP Photo | A nanomaterial offers a safe way to clean up mercury from broken fluorescent bulbs. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/21/fluorescent-mercury-clean.html A new nanomaterial offers a safe, thorough way to clean up mercury from broken fluorescent bulbs. Nanomaterial Cleans up Broken Fluorescent Bulbs Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080821093000 Thu, 21 Aug 2008 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | As birds shift in response to warming, their food sources adjust at different rates. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/20/birds-warming-wildlife.html As birds shift in response to global warming, many may be at risk as their food sources adjust at different rates. Birds Thrown Off by Global Warming Marlowe Hood, AFP earth 20080820093000 Wed, 20 Aug 2008 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | A mysterious molecule that transforms acid into other pollutants is caught in the act. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/18/acid-rain-atmosphere.html A mysterious molecule that transforms acid into other pollutants is caught in the act. Acid Rain Molecule Tells All Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080818100030 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:00:30 EST Getty Images | A polar bear jawbone found in the stomach of a Greenland shark is raising eyebrows. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/15/polar-bear-shark.html A polar bear jawbone found in the stomach of a Greenland shark is raising eyebrows. In Shark Vs. Polar Bear Smackdown, Shark Wins Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20080815114500 Fri, 15 Aug 2008 11:45:00 EST DCL/Getty | Populations of an invasive snail could overwhelm Lake Michigan's ecosystem. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/15/invasive-snail-lake.html Scientists worry that populations of an invasive snail could overwhelm Lake Michigan's ecosystem. Invasive Snail Multiplying in Lake Michigan David Mercer, Associated Press earth 20080815111500 Fri, 15 Aug 2008 11:15:00 EST U.S.G.S. FISC - Center for Aquatic Resource Studies | Like a disease spreading through the body, low-oxygen "dead zones" are expanding in the world's oceans. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/14/ocean-dead-zones.html Like a disease spreading through the body, low-oxygen "dead zones" are expanding in the world's oceans. Ocean Dead Zones Going Global Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20080814160030 Thu, 14 Aug 2008 16:00:30 EST Science/AAAS | The invasive red lionfish is wreaking ecological havoc in delicate Caribbean waters. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/13/red-lionfish-caribbean.html The invasive red lionfish is wreaking ecological havoc in delicate Caribbean waters. Venomous Lionfish Prowls Fragile Caribbean Waters David McFadden, Associated Press earth 20080813163030 Wed, 13 Aug 2008 16:30:30 EST AFP | Scientists use sugarcane to make completely recyclable waterproof paper. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/13/waterproof-paper-sugar.html By using a tough material from sugarcane, scientists make completely recyclable waterproof paper. 'Sugar Coating' Used to Waterproof Paper Anna Salleh, ABC Science Online earth 20080813091000 Wed, 13 Aug 2008 09:10:00 EST Getty Images | Oil prospectors in South America find the first fossils of an extinct scimitar cat there. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/12/saber-tooth-cat.html Oil prospectors in South America find the first fossils of an extinct scimitar cat there. Saber-Toothed Cat Unearthed in Venezuela AFP earth 20080812100030 Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:00:30 EST Getty Images | Once hunted nearly to extinction, the humpback whale is making a striking comeback. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/12/humpback-whale.html Once hunted nearly to extinction, the humpback whale is making a striking comeback. Humpback Whales on Road to Recovery Bradley S. Klapper, Associated Press earth 20080812091530 Tue, 12 Aug 2008 09:15:30 EST AFP | It's no coincidence that Tasmania's giant kangaroo died out shortly after people arrived. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/12/tasmania-giant-mammals.html It's no coincidence that Tasmania's giant kangaroo died out shortly after people arrived, say scientists. Some Prehistoric Giants Killed by People, Not Climate Madeleine Coorey, AFP earth 20080812083030 Tue, 12 Aug 2008 08:30:30 EST AFP | Chili peppers evolved that spicy kick to protect themselves from a deadly fungus, say scientists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/11/chili-pepper-fungus.html Chili peppers evolved that spicy kick to protect themselves from a deadly fungus, say scientists. Some Like It Hot, But Not Fungi Associated Press earth 20080811173030 Mon, 11 Aug 2008 17:30:30 EST Getty Images | A California experiment reveals cattails are effective at removing carbon dioxide. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/08/abrupt-climate-change.html An experiment in California reveals cattails are very effective at removing carbon dioxide and could offer a tool against warming. Cattails Shown to Be Effective CO2-Eaters Steve Lawrence, Associated Press earth 20080808110000 Fri, 08 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST Getty Images | The dandelion's bad rap could be due for a revision, if this new rubber-making scheme pans out. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/05/dandelion-rubber.html The dandelion's bad rap could be due for a revision, if this new rubber-making scheme pans out. Dandelion Rubber Could Replace Rare Sources Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20080805113030 Tue, 05 Aug 2008 11:30:30 EST Getty Images | Antarctica's now-barren valleys were once teeming with life, new fossils show. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/04/antarctica-fossils.html Antarctica's now-barren valleys were once teeming with life, new fossils show. Moss, Insect Fossils Evince Once-Living Antarctica Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20080804180030 Mon, 04 Aug 2008 18:00:30 EST AP Photo/PNAS, A Lewis | Jets of hot water spewing from the ocean floor are discovered in the Arctic Ocean. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/04/deep-sea-vents.html Jets of hot water spewing from the ocean floor are discovered in the Arctic Ocean. Undersea 'Black Smokers' Found Off Arctic AFP earth 20080804160030 Mon, 04 Aug 2008 16:00:30 EST AP Photo | Pelicans are an emerging menace to commercial fish in Idaho, say anglers. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/04/pelican-trout.html The American white pelican is an emerging menace to certain commercial fish in Idaho, say angry anglers. Pelican Vs. Trout: Who Wins in Idaho? John Miller, Associated Press earth 20080804104530 Mon, 04 Aug 2008 10:45:30 EST Getty Images | At least 11 climbers have been killed in an ice fall while climbing K2. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/04/k2-mountaineering-deaths.html Two Dutch climbers were airlifted from K2, but another climber remains behind and at least 11 were killed in an ice fall at the mountain. Rescue Efforts Ongoing at K2 After Deadly Avalanche AFP earth 20080804104500 Mon, 04 Aug 2008 10:45:00 EST Getty Images | A new analysis of old storm records suggests hurricane numbers aren't growing. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/04/hurricane-global-warming.html A new analysis of old storm records suggests global warming isn't leading to more hurricanes after all. Warming Won't Drive More Hurricanes, Study Says Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20080804093030 Mon, 04 Aug 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | Europe was once plunged into a millennium-long deep freeze in just one year. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/08/01/abrupt-climate-change.html Thirteen thousand years ago, Europe was plunged into a millennium-long deep freeze, and scientists now think they know why. Harsh Climate Change Once Fell Swiftly Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20080801130030 Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:00:30 EST Getty Images | The fading glory of the world's great migrations is an environmental tragedy, say scientists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/31/migration-animals.html The fading glory of the world's great migrations is a tragedy for people and the environment, argue conservation experts. Great Migrations Deserve Protection, Say Experts Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080731093030 Thu, 31 Jul 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | A massive sheet of ice broke from the north coast of Canada's Ellesmere Island. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/30/ice-sheet-canada.html A massive sheet of ice broke from the north coast of Canada's Ellesmere Island after first cracking in 2002. Seven-Square-Mile Ice Chunk Breaks Off Arctic Associated Press earth 20080730133000 Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:30:00 EST AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Sam Soja | The shaping and breaking of supercontinents may have given life a boost. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/30/supercontinent-oxygen.html The shaping and breaking of ancient supercontinents may have given life a helping hand, report scientists. Did Supercontinents Create Oxygen-Rich Earth? Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20080730094530 Wed, 30 Jul 2008 09:45:30 EST Getty Images | A new study finds a direct link between neighborhoods and lower body weight. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/30/walkable-towns-weight.html A new study finds a direct link between walkable communities and lower body weight among residents. People Who Live in Town Slim Down Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080730093030 Wed, 30 Jul 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | A strong earthquake rocks California from L.A. to San Diego. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/29/california-earthquake.html A strong earthquake rocks California from L.A. to San Diego. Strong Quake Shakes Southern California Robert Jablon, Associated Press earth 20080729153030 Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:30:30 EST AP Photo | Russian submarines fail to set the record for the deepest dive at Lake Baikal. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/29/lake-baikal-dive.html Russian mini submarines fail to set the record for the deepest dive in freshwater at Lake Baikal. Russian Mini Sub Fails to Reach Lake Bottom AFP earth 20080729103000 Tue, 29 Jul 2008 10:30:00 EST DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images | The cement that binds the skeletons of reef structures is lost under climate change. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/29/coral-reefs-glue.html It's not just coral skeletons that are under threat from a more acidic ocean, it's also the cement that binds the skeletons and reef structures. Coral Reef 'Glue' May Not Stick Under Climate Change Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080729091500 Tue, 29 Jul 2008 09:15:00 EST T. B. Smith | Two submarines will plunge more than 5,000 feet to the bottom of Lake Baikal. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/28/lake-baikal-expedition.html Two submarine pods will plunge more than 5,000 feet to the bottom of Russia's Lake Baikal. Expedition to Deepest Lake Bottom Set for Plunge Bertrand de Saisset, AFP earth 20080728153000 Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST Getty Images | A rare solar eclipse, known in China as the "sun-eating dragon," will fall this Friday. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/28/sun-moon-eclipse.html A rare solar eclipse, known in China as the "sun-eating dragon," will fall again this Friday. Total Solar Eclipse to Fall on China Richard Ingham, AFP earth 20080728140030 Mon, 28 Jul 2008 14:00:30 EST Getty Images | Earth's famous supercontinent Pangea may have been far colder than thought. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/28/pangea-climate-geology.html Earth's famous supercontinent Pangea may have been far colder than scientists ever thought, suggests new geological evidence. Supercontinent Pangea Gets Climate Rethink Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20080728093030 Mon, 28 Jul 2008 09:30:30 EST Lynn Soreghan | Whale sharks have been so exploited that they are shrinking in size, according to a new study. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/25/whale-shark-size.html Whale sharks, the world's largest fish, have been so exploited by humans during the past decade that they are shrinking in size, according to a new study. Is the World's Largest Shark Shrinking? Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20080725120030 Fri, 25 Jul 2008 12:00:30 EST Getty Images | An herb used for centuries by Native Americans could become as popular as echinacea. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/25/calming-herb.html An herb used for centuries by Native Americans could become as popular as ginseng and echinacea. Herbal Remedy, Take Me Away Melanie Dabovich, Associated Press earth 20080725100030 Fri, 25 Jul 2008 10:00:30 EST Getty Images | There is a tipping point beyond which Greenland's ice will be forever lost, researchers say. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/25/greenland-tipping-point.html How much carbon can Greenland take? A new analysis suggests there is a tipping point beyond which Greenland's ice will be forever lost. A Point of No Return for Greenland's Ice Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080725093030 Fri, 25 Jul 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | Beluga whales are a "bellwether species" for Russia's melting Arctic. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/24/beluga-whale-arctic.html Beluga whales are a "bellwether species" for Russia's melting Arctic, say scientists. Whale Playground Sheds Light on Melting Arctic Conor Humphries, AFP earth 20080724103030 Thu, 24 Jul 2008 10:30:30 EST Getty Images | A calcite crystal cave is several thousand feet longer than previous records showed. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/24/snowy-river-cave.html A New Mexico cave of calcite crystals is several thousand feet longer than previous records showed, a new survey finds. Explorers Map 'Snowy River' Cave Susan Montoya Bryan, Associated Press earth 20080724103000 Thu, 24 Jul 2008 10:30:00 EST AP Photo/Susan Montoya Bryan | Converting methane waste into energy is becoming an increasingly feasible proposition. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/24/manure-poop-energy.html Converting methane waste from livestock into power is becoming an increasingly feasible proposition. Power From Poop: Putting Manure to Use Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080724091530 Thu, 24 Jul 2008 09:15:30 EST Getty Images | Can you run a car on trash? Yes, and within two years, say biofuel companies. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/23/biofuel-garbage.html Can you run a car on trash? Yes, and within the next two years, say biofuel companies. From Garbage to Gas Tank: Trash as Biofuel Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080723114530 Wed, 23 Jul 2008 11:45:30 EST Getty Images | A fossil found in Antarctica's dry valley shows the continent was once much warmer. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/23/antarctica-fossil.html A fossil of a shrimp cousin found in Antarctica's dry valley shows that the continent was much warmer just 14 million years ago. Shrimp-Like Fossil Confirms Antarctica Was Once Warmer Michael Reilly, Discovery News earth 20080723093000 Wed, 23 Jul 2008 09:30:00 EST Mark Williams, University of Leicester/A. Lewis | An oxygen-depleted dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico is hundreds of miles wide. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/23/gulf-dead-zone.html An oxygen-depleted dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico is hundreds of miles wide. Gulf Dead Zone Grows Bigger Than Ever Michael Graczyk, Associated Press earth 20080723090030 Wed, 23 Jul 2008 09:00:30 EST Getty Images/NOAA | Wildfire smoke from North America may cool the Arctic for weeks or months. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/22/wildfire-smoke-cool.html Widespread wildfires in North America may create enough smoke to cool the Arctic for weeks or months, suggests a new study. Wildfire Smoke May Cause Arctic Cooling Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080722171630 Tue, 22 Jul 2008 17:16:30 EST Getty Images/NASA | Nutrients carried by the Amazon River help create a carbon sink deep in the Atlantic Ocean. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/22/amazon-carbon-sink.html Nutrients carried by the Amazon River help create a carbon sink deep in the Atlantic Ocean. Amazon River Powers Atlantic Carbon Sink AFP earth 20080722091530 Tue, 22 Jul 2008 09:15:30 EST Getty Images | No-take marine reserves protect coral by controlling invasive starfish. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/21/starfish-fishing-ban.html No-take marine reserves protect coral indirectly by controlling invasive starfish, research shows. Coral-Wrecking Starfish Curbed by Fishing Regs Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080721120030 Mon, 21 Jul 2008 12:00:30 EST AP Photo | Hundreds of penguins are found dead on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/18/dead-baby-penguins.html More than 400 young penguins are found dead on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro. Dead Baby Penguins Wash Ashore by the Hundreds Michael Astor, Associated Press earth 20080718200030 Fri, 18 Jul 2008 20:00:30 EST Getty Images | U.S. athletes appear to be taking concerns about Beijing smog in stride. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/18/olympics-pollution.html While air pollution remains an ongoing concern at the upcoming Beijing Olympic, U.S. athletes appear to be taking it in stride. U.S.Olympians Shrug Off Smog Concerns Jim Slater, AFP earth 20080718134500 Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:45:00 EST Jonathan Ferrey/Getty Images | The Asian citrus psyllid can destroy entire groves of citrus trees. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/18/citrus-pest.html The Asian citrus psyllid can destroy entire groves of citrus trees and so far there is no weapon against it. Tiny Bug Threatens to Take Down U.S. Citrus Crops Traci Cone, Associated Press earth 20080718093000 Fri, 18 Jul 2008 09:30:00 EST Douglas L. Caldwell, University of Florida | Some species might be better off after a climate-induced move, say scientists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/17/threatened species.html Some threatened species might be better off in other locations in light of climate change, say scientists. Moving Species to Save Them: Pros and Cons Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20080717163030 Thu, 17 Jul 2008 16:30:30 EST Getty Images | More icebergs are scraping Antarctica's seabed, crushing plants and animals. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/17/icebergs-antarctica.html More icebergs are scraping Antarctica's seabed, crushing plants and animals. More Icebergs Scouring Antarctica's Seabed AFP earth 20080717150000 Thu, 17 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST Getty Images | Natural, microscopic plates of gold are found in salty groundwaters. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/17/nano-gold-nature.html Nano gold has been made by people for use in nanotechnology, but now natural, microscopic plates of gold are found in salty groundwaters. Nature's Own Nano Gold Found Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080717093000 Thu, 17 Jul 2008 09:30:00 EST CSIRO | New Zealand's craggy mountain ranges get a geological explanation. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/16/new-zealand-mountain.html The craggy mountain ranges of New Zealand, made famous by the 'Lord of the Rings' films, get their signature steepness from the rock types within. 'Middle Earth' Mountains: Steep and Strong Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080716153030 Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:30:30 EST Getty Images | Eruptions on the sea floor may have triggered mass extinctions millions of years ago. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/16/volcano-extinction.html Fountains of fire erupting on the ocean floor may have altered the sea's chemistry and triggered massive extinctions millions of years ago. Volcanoes Blamed for Mass Extinctions AFP earth 20080716150000 Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST Getty Images | Why do apples outlast pears in the fruit bowl? The secret is in the the way they "breathe." http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/15/apple-pear-fruit.html Why do apples outlast pears in the fruit bowl? The secret is in the way they "breathe," say researchers. Fast-Spoiling Pear Mystery Solved Darren Osborne, ABC Science Online earth 20080715124530 Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:45:30 EST Getty Images | As wildfires rage across California, a NASA aircraft helps firefighters in the field. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/15/nasa-drone-fire.html As more than 300 wildfires rage across California, an unmanned drone designed by NASA is helping firefighters in the field. Calif. Firefighters Get Backup From NASA Drone Amanda Fehd, Associated Press earth 20080715100030 Tue, 15 Jul 2008 10:00:30 EST AP Photo | An unmanned sub is collecting data on everything from seawater to sharks. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/14/yellow-submarine-ocean.html An unmanned sub explores the Atlantic, collecting data on everything from seawater to sharks. Yellow Submarine Probes Undersea World Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20080714140000 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST AP Photo | A surprise eruption in Alaska left some residents in the hands of local fishermen. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/14/alaska-volcano-rescue.html An unexpected eruption on a remote Alaskan island left some stranded residents in the hands of a few local fishermen. Volcano Refugees Rescued by Fishing Boat Rachel D'oro, Associated Press earth 20080714120030 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 12:00:30 EST AP Photo | New global satellite maps reveal wind energy hot spots in ocean areas. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/14/ocean-wind-map.html Efforts to harness Earth's ocean winds could soon benefit from new global satellite maps that reveal wind energy hot spots in ocean areas. New Maps to Help Tap Ocean Winds Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080714083000 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 08:30:00 EST NASA/JPL | Engineers translate the efficiency of whale fins into manmade innovations. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/11/wind-turbine-whale.html Engineers translate the efficiency of whale and dolphin fins into manmade innovations. Whales, Dolphins Inspire Wind Turbine Tech Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080711110000 Fri, 11 Jul 2008 11:00:00 EST Getty/Frank Fish | One-third of the world's coral reefs are threatened with extinction. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/10/coral-reefs.html One-third of the world's coral reefs are threatened with extinction, finds a new global assessment. Third of Coral Reefs Threatened AFP earth 20080710144500 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 14:45:00 EST HASSAN AMMAR/AFP/Getty Images | Dramatic shifts in the food web are happening on the Antarctic Peninsula. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/10/antarctica-species.html Dramatic shifts in the food web are happening on the Antarctic Peninsula, where the climate is warming faster than anywhere else on Earth. At Antarctic Peninsula, Fast Change Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080710103000 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 10:30:00 EST Bill Frasier/Jim McClintock/ Margaret Amsler | When subjected to artificial warming, grasslands seem largely unaffected, shows research. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/08/grasslands-warming.html When subjected to artificial warming and rainfall changes, grasslands seem largely unaffected, shows new research. Grasslands Hold Up to Climate Change Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080708100000 Tue, 08 Jul 2008 10:00:00 EST Jason Fridley | The more it rains on some mountains the faster they grow, say geologists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/08/mountains-rain.html The more it rains on some mountains the faster they grow, say geologists studying the intensely rainy Eastern Cordillera of Colombia. Extreme Rain Grows Mountains Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080708093000 Tue, 08 Jul 2008 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | A proposal to limit global warming by placing mirrors in the sky is not practical. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/07/sunshade-warming.html A proposal to limit global warming by placing mirrors in the sky is not a practical solution, concludes new research. Blocking Sun Not Feasible Warming Solution, Says Study Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080707133000 Mon, 07 Jul 2008 13:30:00 EST UA Steward Observatory | Sailors competing in the 2008 Olympics face an added opponent -- pollution. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/07/sailing-olympics.html Sailors competing in the 2008 Olympics face an added opponent -- pollution. Olympic Sailors Facing Polluted Waters D'Arcy Doran, AFP earth 20080707120000 Mon, 07 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST Guang Niu/Getty Images | Madagascar hopes promoting ecotourism may help save wildlife. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/03/madagascar-tourism.html Officials in Madagascar hope promoting ecotourism may help save the region's panoply of wildlife. Madagascar Hopes Tourism Saves 'Noah's Ark' Gregoire Pourtier, AFP earth 20080703150000 Thu, 03 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST Getty Images | Schemes to capture carbon dioxide as it's released are trickier than they appear, warn experts. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/02/carbon-capture-storage.html Maverick schemes to capture carbon dioxide as it's released are trickier than they may appear, warn experts. Carbon Capture Plans Get Reality Check AFP earth 20080702103030 Wed, 02 Jul 2008 10:30:30 EST USGS | Could melting in Greenland destabilize ice in West Antarctica? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/01/ice-sheet-melt.html If the past is any indication, ice sheet melting in Greenland could destabilize the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, says one expert. Ancient Ice Sheets Fell Like Dominoes Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080701160030 Tue, 01 Jul 2008 16:00:30 EST Getty Images | Are dwindling penguins the tuxedo-clad version of the canary in the coal mine? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/07/01/penguin-ocean.html Are dwindling penguins the tuxedo-clad version of the canary in the coal mine? Penguin Woes Signal Trouble at Sea Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20080701090030 Tue, 01 Jul 2008 09:00:30 EST Getty Images | This year the North Pole has a 50-50 chance of going ice-free for the first time in recorded history. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/30/north-pole-melt.html This year the North Pole has a 50-50 chance of experiencing the first ice-free summer in recorded history, say scientists. Arctic Ice: Going, Going... Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20080630113030 Mon, 30 Jun 2008 11:30:30 EST AP Photo/NASA | A NASA climate whistle-blower repeats his case to Congress with a chorus of support. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/27/climate-change-warming.html A NASA climate whistle-blower makes his case to Congress, again, 20 years later. Others second the motion. The Time Is Now, Climate Experts Warn Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080627113030 Fri, 27 Jun 2008 11:30:30 EST Christopher Christie | The genome of the precious cocoa bean plant will be analyzed. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/26/chocolate-genome.html In an effort to safeguard the precious cocoa bean plant, government scientists will place its genome under scrutiny. Cocoa Genome to Be Examined Matt Sedensky, Discovery News earth 20080626110000 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST Getty Images | An effort is underway to replace aging equipment of the national weather system. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/26/weather-radar.html The backbone of the national weather system is flawed, say researchers who hope to replace it with new equipment. Aging Weather Radar System Gets Makeover Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20080626093000 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST Getty Images/NOAA | California's endemic plants could soon suffer an 80 percent reduction in range. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/25/climate-change-plants.html California's endemic plants could soon suffer an 80 percent reduction in range, thanks to climate change. Calif. Plants Squeezed by Climate Change Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080625140030 Wed, 25 Jun 2008 14:00:30 EST Christopher Christie | When bird populations are diverse, West Nile Virus infections goes down. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/25/biodiversity-west-nile.html When bird populations are diverse, the numbers of West Nile Virus infections in humans goes down, new research finds. More Bird Species Means Fewer West Nile Cases Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080625093000 Wed, 25 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | The northern part of the Aral Sea has been growing and fish are returning. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/24/aral-sea.html The northern part of the Aral Sea has been growing and fish are returning since a dam was completed in 2005. Aral Sea Revived by Dam Antoine Lambroschini, AFP earth 20080624153000 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST NASA | With its vast seaweed reservoir, Ireland could become a key biofuel producer. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/23/ireland-seaweed-ethanol.html With its vast seaweed reservoir, Ireland could become a key player in biofuel production. Seaweed Power: Ireland Taps New Energy Source AFP earth 20080623150030 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 15:00:30 EST Getty Images | China wants to control the number of visitors to the world's highest peak. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/23/everest-climbers-china.html New legislation introduced in China would control the number of visitors to the world's highest peak. China Moves to Limit Everest Climbers AFP earth 20080623100000 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST Getty Images | Liquid water may have existed on our planet as long as 4.3 billion years ago. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/19/zircon-earth-water.html Newly found grains of a sturdy mineral called zircon suggest that liquid water existed on our planet as long as 4.3 billion years ago. Earth May Have Supported Life Earlier in History Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080619160000 Thu, 19 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST Mary Diman and John Valley | Calculations show the world's oceans are warming 50 percent faster than once thought. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/18/ocean-warming.html New calculations show that climate change is warming the world's oceans 50 percent faster than previously thought. Oceans Warming Faster Than Realized Marlowe Hood, AFP earth 20080618150000 Wed, 18 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST Getty Images | A boom in jellyfish populations is considered a bad sign for ocean ecosystems. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/18/sea-level-extinction.html A boom in jellyfish populations is considered a bellwether for environmental woes. Jellyfish Booms Signal Ecosystems Out of Whack Jerome Cartillier, AFP earth 20080618104500 Wed, 18 Jun 2008 10:45:00 EST Getty Images | Imposing fees to fishermen who ensnare seabirds is unlikely to help, say researchers. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/18/bycatch-seabirds.html A proposed approach similar to "carbon offsets," but for marine species conservation, is not likely to help seabirds, says a new study. Bycatch Fees Won't Help Seabirds, Says Study Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080618093000 Wed, 18 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | Polar bears are spotted roaming far outside their normal Arctic territory. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/17/polar-bear-iceland.html Polar bears are spotted roaming far outside their normal Arctic territory. Roaming Polar Bears Spotted in Iceland AFP earth 20080617153030 Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:30:30 EST AP Photo/John McConnico | Many of the biggest ancient mass extinctions correlated with a rise in sea level. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/17/sea-level-extinction.html Many of the biggest ancient mass extinctions correlated with a rise in sea level, argues one scientist. Did Sea Level Flux Drive Mass Extinctions? Marlowe Hood, AFP earth 20080617093030 Tue, 17 Jun 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | Could "the plant that ate the South" be the next big biofuel? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/16/kudzu-biofuel-ethanol.html Could "the plant that ate the South" be the next big biofuel? Some researchers think it's a possibility. Kudzu Gets Kudos as a Potential Biofuel Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080616094530 Mon, 16 Jun 2008 09:45:30 EST Getty Images | Antifungals used in athlete's foot medicine could be used to control red tides. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/13/red-tide-athletes-foot.html Antifungals like those used in athlete's foot medicine could be useful in controlling red tides, research show. Athlete's Foot Treatment Proposed for Red Tides Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080613091500 Fri, 13 Jun 2008 09:15:00 EST Getty Images | A date tree grown from a 2,000-year-old seed is doing well after three years. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/12/ancient-date-tree.html A date palm tree grown from a 2,000-year-old seed is doing well after three years. Tree Grown From 2,000-Year-Old Seed Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20080612144500 Thu, 12 Jun 2008 14:45:00 EST Guy Eisner / Courtesy of Science Magazine | More than 1,800 feet undersea, an erupting volcano has been captured on film. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/12/underwater-volcano.html More than 1,800 feet undersea, an erupting volcano has been captured on film -- with sound -- for the first time. Underwater Volcano Eruption Caught on Camera Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080612093030 Thu, 12 Jun 2008 09:30:30 EST American Geophysical Union | Like humans, trees have an inner thermostat. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/11/tree-leaf-temperature.html Like humans, trees seem to have an inner thermostat that keeps their leaves at a steady 71 degrees. Tree Leaves Keep Inner Temp Steady Marlowe Hood, AFP earth 20080611163030 Wed, 11 Jun 2008 16:30:30 EST Getty Images | By spinning a 26-ton sphere filled with boiling sodium, researchers hope to understand Earth's core. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/11/earth-spinning-core.html By spinning a 26-ton steel sphere filled with boiling sodium at about 90 miles an hour, a scientist hopes to unlock the secrets of Earth's magnetic field (or, seemingly, die trying). Experiment Mimics Earth's Spinning Core Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20080611143000 Wed, 11 Jun 2008 14:30:00 EST University of Maryland | A leaked NASA memo lends support to a satellite-based quake detection system. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/10/earthquake-satellite.html A leaked NASA memo lends support to a satellite-based quake detection system. NASA Caught Early Signs of China Quake Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20080610100030 Tue, 10 Jun 2008 10:00:30 EST USGS | Eastern spinner and spotted dolphins make comebacks with tighter fishing regulations. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/10/dolphins-comeback.html Eastern spinner and spotted dolphins are making comebacks as tighter fishing regulations take effect. Fishing Nets Entangling Fewer Dolphins Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080610093000 Tue, 10 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | Hunted for its meat and oil for hundreds of years, the Caribbean monk seal is now officially extinct. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/09/caribbean-monk-seal.html Hunted for its meat and oil for hundreds of years, the Caribbean monk seal is now officially extinct. Caribbean Monk Seal Gone for Good Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080609110030 Mon, 09 Jun 2008 11:00:30 EST U.S. National Museum | Leaders in Africa ponder the possibility of harnessing the continent's desert sun. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/05/africa-desert-solar.html Leaders in Africa ponder the possibility of harnessing the ferocious sunshine that beats down on its deserts for electricty. Africa's Hot Deserts Could Power Entire Continent AFP earth 20080605150000 Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST Getty Images | A Siberian family captures a dramatic case study in the effects of global warming. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/05/lake-baikal-warming.html A Siberian family captures a dramatic case study in the effects of global warming. Lake Baikal Warming ID'd by One Family's Tradition Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080605130030 Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:00:30 EST NASA | The longest drought in Yellowstone history appears to be slowing down Old Faithful's clock. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/04/old-faithful-geyser.html The longest drought in Yellowstone history appears to be slowing down Old Faithful's clock. Old Faithful Changes Its Tune AFP earth 20080604173030 Wed, 04 Jun 2008 17:30:30 EST Getty Images | Logging could diminish New Guinea's forests by half over the next decade. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/06/02/new-guinea-forest.html At current logging rates, more than half of the critical forests in Papua New Guinea will be lost in just over a decade, a study finds. Half of Papua New Guinea Forests Could Vanish AFP earth 20080602103000 Mon, 02 Jun 2008 10:30:00 EST Getty Images | A krill-like animal has been mysteriously disappearing from the Great Lakes. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/30/great-lakes-crustacean.html A krill-like animal has been mysteriously disappearing from the Great Lakes, causing problems up the food chain. Critical Great Lakes Crustacean Disappearing Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20080530110000 Fri, 30 May 2008 11:00:00 EST Bernd Haynold/Wikipedia | The National Hurricane Center forecasts an especially active 2008 season. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/30/hurricane-season.html The National Hurricane Center forecasts an especially active 2008 season. 2008 Hurricane Forecast: Doesn't Look Good Juan Castro Olivera, AFP earth 20080530104530 Fri, 30 May 2008 10:45:30 EST NOAA | Tests reveal acid rain is still damaging forests in the Northeast. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/30/acid-rain-northeast.html Acid rain may seem like a problem of previous decades, but tests reveal it is still damaging forests in the Northeast. Acid Rain Still Taking a Toll on Northeast Forests Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080530093000 Fri, 30 May 2008 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | Rock cores from the San Andreas Fault can be explored by anyone with a new online tool. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/30/san-andreas-fault.html Rock cores laboriously extracted from the San Andreas Fault can be explored by anyone with a new online tool. San Andreas Fault Cores Go Live, Online Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080530091530 Fri, 30 May 2008 09:15:30 EST USGS | Researchers envision 40 to 50 of a new snowmobile-like robot exploring Antarctica. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/29/antarctica-robot.html Researchers envision 40 to 50 of a new snowmobile-like robot exploring Antarctica's harsh terrain. Snowmobile-Like Bot Made to Explore Antarctica Greg Bluestein, Associated Press earth 20080529111500 Thu, 29 May 2008 11:15:00 EST AP Photo/Georgia Tech, Ron Felt | A 380-million-year-old fossil dubbed "mother fish" is making evolutionary history. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/28/mother-fish-fossil.html A fossil dubbed "mother fish" was immortalized 380 million years ago, just after delivering her offspring. Oldest Live Birth Captured in Fish Fossil AFP earth 20080528154530 Wed, 28 May 2008 15:45:30 EST Museum Victoria | The melting of frozen methane triggered major global warming 635 million years ago. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/28/snowball-earth-methane.html The melting of frozen methane triggered runaway global warming 635 million years ago, report scientists. Methane Warmed Ancient 'Snowball Earth' AFP earth 20080528150030 Wed, 28 May 2008 15:00:30 EST Joseph Stoner | Satellites and beekeepers team up to track response to climate change. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/28/bees-climate-change.html By combining satellite data with beekeepers' records, scientists hope to learn how bees are responding to climate change. Satellites, Beekeepers Track Climate Change Response Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080528140000 Wed, 28 May 2008 14:00:00 EST Getty Images | Scientists follow the trail of a rogue Antarctic iceberg and its effects on wildlife. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/27/antarctica-seal.html Scientists follow the trail of a rogue Antarctic iceberg to connect global warming and its impacts on wildlife. Antarctic Mega-Iceberg Suffocates Seals Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20080527123030 Tue, 27 May 2008 12:30:30 EST Getty Images | The DOE funds $126 million worth of carbon capture and storage projects. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/23/carbon-sequester.html The DOE funds an assortment of carbon capture and storage projects...to the tune of $126 million. CO2 Burial Schemes Get Green Light Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080523133030 Fri, 23 May 2008 13:30:30 EST Getty Images | Small doses of sunscreen added to seawater can lead to coral bleaching. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/23/coral-reefs-sunscreen.html Even small doses of sunscreen added to seawater near reefs leads to large discharges of coral mucous -- a clear sign of environmental stress. Sunscreen Stresses Coral Reefs AFP earth 20080523130000 Fri, 23 May 2008 13:00:00 EST AP Photo/NOAA | Scientists create a detailed scenario of what would happen if a big quake hit California. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/22/california-earthquake.html Preparedness is everything so quake scientists create a detailed scenario of what would happen if a big quake hit California. Calif. Quake Scientists Detail the 'Big One' Alicia Chang, Associated Press earth 20080522094500 Thu, 22 May 2008 09:45:00 EST AP Photo/Douglas C. Pizac | Caribou arrive at their breeding grounds to find a food supply far past its prime. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/22/caribou-climate-change.html Greenland's caribou are arriving at their spring breeding grounds to find a food supply far past its prime. Caribou Food Supply Threatened by Warming Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080522091530 Thu, 22 May 2008 09:15:30 EST Eric Post | More bad news for biofuel fans: Certain crops could become invasive species. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/20/biofuel-crop-invasive.html More bad news for biofuel fans: Certain crops could become invasive species. Biofuel Crops: A Threat to Native Species? AFP earth 20080520160030 Tue, 20 May 2008 16:00:30 EST Getty Images | Simluations show Earth's shifting plates would freeze into place in a much hotter world. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/19/earth-crust-heat.html Simluations show Earth's shifting plates would freeze into place if temperatures rose by about 100 degrees C. Overheated Earth Would Lock Into Place Stephen Pincock, ABC Science Online earth 20080519144500 Mon, 19 May 2008 14:45:00 EST Getty Images | Millions of tiny starfish-like critters are spotted thriving in an undersea mountain chain. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/19/starfish-volcano.html Millions of tiny starfish-like critters are spotted thriving in an undersea mountain chain. At One Undersea Volcano, Star Heaven Ray Lilley, Associated Press earth 20080519103030 Mon, 19 May 2008 10:30:30 EST AP Photo | A meteorologist says warming isn't to blame for a recent jump in hurricanes. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/19/hurricane-warming-climate.html A government meteorologist affirms global warming is real but says it isn't to blame for a recent jump in hurricanes. Global Warming May Reduce Hurricanes Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20080519093000 Mon, 19 May 2008 09:30:00 EST NOAA | In a world already short on water, why are we wasting 1,800 trillion gallons of it a year? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/19/wasted-food-water.html In a world already short on water, why are we wasting 1,800 trillion gallons of it a year? Why Wasted Food Means Wasted Water Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080519091530 Mon, 19 May 2008 09:15:30 EST Getty Images | The world's wildlife populations have reduced by roughly a quarter since the 1970s. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/16/wildlife-populations.html The world's wildlife populations have reduced by roughly a quarter since the 1970s, reports the World Wildlife Fund. WWF: Wildlife Numbers Plummet Globally AFP earth 20080516100030 Fri, 16 May 2008 10:00:30 EST Getty Images | The ocean-calming effects of El Nino may have helped Ferdinand Magellan cross the Pacific. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/16/el-nino-magellan.html The ocean-calming effects of El Nino may have helped Ferdinand Magellan cross the Pacific. Magellan's Secret Weapon: El Nino? Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20080516090030 Fri, 16 May 2008 09:00:30 EST Science | Scientists say that our nitrogen footprint matters as much as our carbon footprint. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/15/nitrogen-footprint.html It's not just people's carbon footprint that's of concern, scientists stress that nitrogen matters too -- and it's something that can be fixed. Nitrogen, Like Carbon, Also Leaving Footprint Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080515140000 Thu, 15 May 2008 14:00:00 EST Getty Images/Dave Reede | Did cleanup of a polluted Washington lake drive fish evolution in reverse? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/15/fish-evolution-lake.html Did cleanup of a polluted Washington lake drive fish evolution in reverse? Scientists think so. Evolution Goes Wild in Once-Polluted Lake Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080515120000 Thu, 15 May 2008 12:00:00 EST Getty Images | Cadmium levels in water are contributing to the decline of European eels. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/13/eel-cadmium.html Critically endangered European eels are threatened by cadmium levels in the water, new research finds. Cadmium May Be Eel-Killer Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080513144500 Tue, 13 May 2008 14:45:00 EST Getty Images/Wil Meinderts/ Foto Natura | Wind energy could generate 20 percent of the nation's electricity by 2030. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/13/wind-power.html Wind energy could generate 20 percent of the nation's electricity by 2030, according to a new report. Wind Energy Use to Jump, Then Soar H. Josef Hebert, Associated Press earth 20080513091530 Tue, 13 May 2008 09:15:30 EST Getty Images | Steve Irwin's widow fights to prevent mining in an Australian wildlife reserve. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/12/terri-irwin-mining.html The widow of conservationist Steve Irwin is fighting to prevent mining in an Australian wildlife reserve. Terri Irwin Fighting to Block Mining in Wildlife Zone AFP earth 20080512150000 Mon, 12 May 2008 15:00:00 EST AP Photo/Ed Wray | A 7.8-magnitude earthquake batters central China, killing thousands. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/12/china-earthquake.html A 7.8-magnitude earthquake batters central China, killing thousands. Death Toll From China Quake Exceeds 8,500 Christopher Bodeen, Associated Press earth 20080512093030 Mon, 12 May 2008 09:30:30 EST AP Photo| Weather experts say Myanmar could face another big cyclone this season. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/09/myanmar-cyclone-storm.html Weather experts say Myanmar, devastated by Cyclone Nargis, could face another big cyclone this season. Myanmar Facing Risk of Another Big Storm AFP earth 20080509140000 Fri, 09 May 2008 14:00:00 EST AP Photo | A fungus known to devour canvas tents could be key to cellulose-based ethanol. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/09/fungus-genome-ethanol.html A fungus known to devour World War II canvas tents could be key to producing cellulose-based ethanol. Fungus Genome: Key to Clean Fuels? Eric Bland, Discovery News earth 20080509094530 Fri, 09 May 2008 09:45:30 EST Getty Images | Experts say cultivating better dirt is key to ending global food shortages. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/08/soil-food-crisis.html Science has long focused on cultivating souped-up seeds, but experts say cultivating better dirt is key to ending global food shortages. Good Soil Critical in Food Crisis Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20080508141400 Thu, 08 May 2008 14:14:00 EST AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster | Geology reveals Greenland's ice has melted in synch with past fits of global warming. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/08/greenland-ice-melt.html Geology reveals Greenland's ice has melted in synch with past fits of global warming, suggesting that the ice is now in for a big melt. Greenland Ice Has Sensitive History to Warming Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080508100000 Thu, 08 May 2008 10:00:00 EST Joseph Stoner | Is a maverick scheme to soak up carbon dioxide in the oceans too risky? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/08/ocean-acidification.html Is a maverick scheme to soak up carbon dioxide in the oceans too risky? Ocean Science Experiment Could Fight Acidification Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080508094530 Thu, 08 May 2008 09:45:30 EST Science | A new bill to protect sharks from overfishing inches a step closer to becoming law. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/07/shark-conservation-bill.html A new bill to protect sharks from overfishing inches a step closer to becoming law. U.S. Shark Bill Targets Finning Loopholes Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20080507113030 Wed, 07 May 2008 11:30:30 EST Getty Images | As forests thicken with fewer fires, less -- not more -- carbon is stored. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/07/forests-carbon-fire.html Many have assumed that as western U.S. forests thicken with fewer fires, more carbon is stored. But new research finds the opposite. Fewer Wildfires, Less Carbon Stored? Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080507113000 Wed, 07 May 2008 11:30:00 EST Getty Images | Rising CO2 saps nutrients from eucalyptus leaves, putting koalas at risk, warn scientists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/07/koala-global-warming.html Rising CO2 saps nutrients from eucalyptus leaves, putting koalas at risk, warn scientists. Koalas at Risk From Climate Change Rod McGuirk, Associated Press earth 20080507090030 Wed, 07 May 2008 09:00:30 EST Getty Images | The question of whether global warming drives killer cyclones remains unanswered. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/06/global-warming-cyclone.html The question of whether global warming drives killer cyclones remains unanswered. Climate-Cyclone Link Spurs Debate Richard Ingham and Anne Chaon, AFP earth 20080506163030 Tue, 06 May 2008 16:30:30 EST Getty Images | The Chicxulub meteor may have slammed into an oil field and triggered very hot fires. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/06/chicxulub-meteor-oil.html The Chicxulub meteor, famous for wiping out the dinosaurs, may have slammed into an oil field and triggered very hot fires. Dino-Killing Meteor May Have Struck Oil Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080506140000 Tue, 06 May 2008 14:00:00 EST NASA | Tropical animals are far less adaptable to climate change, finds new research. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/06/tropical-warming.html Tropical animals live near or at their optimal temperatures and are far less adaptable to climate change, finds new research. Warming Hits Tropical Creatures Harder Jean-Louis Santini, AFP earth 20080506104500 Tue, 06 May 2008 10:45:00 EST Getty Images | The mangrove forests that once protected Myanmar from storms are thinner than ever. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/06/mangrove-cyclone-myanmar.html The mangrove forests that once protected Myanmar from storms at sea are thinner than ever. Mangrove Loss Partly to Blame for Myanmar Toll AFP earth 20080506090030 Tue, 06 May 2008 09:00:30 EST Getty Images | As many as 10,000 people have been killed in Myanmar after a devastating cyclone hit ground. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/05/cyclone-nargis-myanmar.html As many as 10,000 people have been killed in Myanmar after a devastating cyclone hit ground. Myanmar Cyclone Death Toll in Thousands Associated Press earth 20080505140030 Mon, 05 May 2008 14:00:30 EST NASA | DDT levels aren't declining in Antarctica, suggests a new study on Adelie penguins. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/05/antarctica-penguin-ddt.html DDT levels are declining in the Arctic but staying steady in Antarctica, suggests a new study on Adelie penguins. Antarctic Penguins Reveal Steady DDT Levels Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080505094530 Mon, 05 May 2008 09:45:30 EST Getty Images | A global effort to capture DNA from thousands of tree species is launched in New York. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/02/tree-dna-archive.html A global effort to capture DNA from thousands of tree species is launched in New York. Worldwide Tree Database to Archive DNA Deepti Hajela, Associated Press earth 20080502103030 Fri, 02 May 2008 10:30:30 EST Getty Images | Charring biomass can help reduce our carbon footprint, though it's not a perfect solution. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/01/carbon-biochar.html Charring biomass offers a way to reduce our carbon footprint, though some point out it's not a perfect solution. Charred Earth Examined as Carbon-Storing Option Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080501140000 Thu, 01 May 2008 14:00:00 EST Olle Zackrisson | A scientist rediscovers a long-lost, "weird and wonderful" parasitic plant. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/01/ugly-parasitic-plant.html A Missouri scientist rediscovers a long-lost, "weird and wonderful" parasitic plant in Mexico. Ugly Parasitic Plant Reappears After Two Decades Cheryl Wittenauer, Associated Press earth 20080501103000 Thu, 01 May 2008 10:30:00 EST AP Photo/Missouri Botanical Garden, George Yatskievych| A change in the Gulf Stream will cause the climate to temporarily cool. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/30/global-cooling.html Thanks to a change in the Gulf Stream, scientists say global warming will take a break over the next decade. Global Warming? Expect Cooling in Near Future AFP earth 20080430143000 Thu, 30 Apr 2008 14:30:00 EST AP Photos/Douglas C. Pizac | A dwarf woodpecker, legless lizard and another 12 new species are spotted in Brazil. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/30/legless-lizard-brazil.html A dwarf woodpecker, legless lizard and another 12 new species are spotted in Brazil's Cerrado grasslands. Legless Lizard Among Newly Found Species AFP earth 20080430123030 Wed, 30 Apr 2008 12:30:30 EST Conservation International | Some are doubting the claim that scientists used lasers to trigger lightning. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/30/laser-lightning-storm.html Scientists say they successfully used lasers to trigger electrical activity in thunder clouds, but others doubt the claim. Laser-Made Lightning Claim Has Doubters Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080430093000 Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | Promoting grain-based biofuels has led to a food crisis, experts say. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/29/biofuel-food-shortage.html Promoting grain-based biofuels has led to rice consumption outpacing production, experts say. Biofuel Craze Fueling Food Crisis, Say Experts AFP earth 20080429153000 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:30:00 EST AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster | Genetically modified crops are shown to lead to less herbicide runoff, but there are tradeoff's. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/29/gm-crops-runoff.html Research finds that crops genetically modified to resist certain herbicides lead to less herbicide runoff, but there are tradeoff's. GM Crops Good for Streams? Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080429143000 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:30:00 EST AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli| A shrew found in Ireland is only the third new mammal to be found there in 60 years. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/28/shrew-ireland.html A tiny shrew recently found in Ireland is only the third new mammal to be found on the island in 60 years. Shrew Discovered as Irish Newcomer AFP earth 20080428133000 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST Queen's University Belfast | Could repairing the ozone hole worsen global warming? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/28/ozone-hole-climate.html Could repairing the ozone hole worsen global warming? Scientists get to the bottom of two tricky phenomena. Ozone and Climate: One Messy Relationship Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080428103030 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 10:30:30 EST NOAA | Step aside, polar bears: Narwhals could be the new icon of global warming vulnerability. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/25/narwhal-polar-bear.html Step aside, polar bears: Narwhals could be the new icon of global warming vulnerability. Narwhals Threatened by Polar Melt Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20080425153030 Fri, 25 Apr 2008 15:30:30 EST AP Photo/John McConnico | Every 100,000 years, something gives way on Hawaii, producing world's largest landslides. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/25/landslide-hawaii-lava.html Every 100,000 years or so, something gives way on Hawaii, producing the largest landslides on Earth. Mega-Landslide Could Shake Hawaii Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080425104530 Fri, 25 Apr 2008 10:45:30 EST Getty Images | Levels of the greenhouse gases CO2 and methane both rose sharply in 2007. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/24/greenhouse-gas-carbon.html Levels of the greenhouse gases CO2 and methane both rose sharply in 2007. Where are we going wrong? Greenhouse Gas Emissions 'On Wrong Track' Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080424131530 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 13:15:30 EST Getty Images | Canada's pine beetles could release 270 megatons of CO2 by 2020, say scientists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/23/pine-beetle-canada.html Canada's pine beetles could release 270 megatons of CO2 by 2020, say scientists. Pine Beetles Ravage Forests, Spew CO2 AFP earth 20080423143030 Wed, 23 Apr 2008 14:30:30 EST AP Photo | Waterways across the country are suffering from pollution and overconsumption. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/23/river-waterway.html Waterways in every region of the country will eventually be affected by water pollution or overconsumption, say experts. Ailing Rivers Need Urgent Care, Groups Warn Susan Montoya Bryan, Associated Press earth 20080423093030 Wed, 23 Apr 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | U.S. earthquake hazard maps show a laundry list of newfound seismic worries. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/23/seismic-map.html The newest U.S. earthquake hazard maps show a laundry list of newfound seismic worries. Shaky U.S. Grounds Revealed in New Maps Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080423093000 Wed, 23 Apr 2008 09:30:00 EST USGS | The practice of cloud seeding is on the road from science fiction to fact. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/22/cloud-seeding-weather.html The practice of cloud seeding is on the road from science fiction to fact. Weather Modification Comes of Age Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080422144530 Tue, 22 Apr 2008 14:45:30 EST Getty Images | An sunny year in 2007 triggered a cycle that melted a record amount of Arctic ice. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/22/arctic-melt-sun.html An especially sunny year in 2007 triggered a cycle that melted a record amount of Arctic ice. Arctic Ice Suffered From Sunny Year Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080422140000 Tue, 22 Apr 2008 14:00:00 EST AP Photo/John McConnico | Are agricultural subsidies for biofuels to blame for rising food prices? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/21/biofuel-food-hunger.html Are agricultural subsidies for biofuels to blame for rising food prices? Biofuels: Bad News for Food? Associated Press earth 20080421153030 Mon, 21 Apr 2008 15:30:30 EST Getty Images | Seismic noise from surfs shows wave energy growing as the world warms. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/21/storm-waves-climate.html Seismic noise from storm surf is showing that this wave energy has been getting stronger as the world's oceans heat up. Ocean Waves Pounding Harder Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080421143000 Mon, 21 Apr 2008 14:30:00 EST Getty Images | A hazardous chemical winds up in the livers of sharks whose oil is often sold as a health aid. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/21/shark-liver-oil.html A hazardous chemical winds up in the livers of sharks whose oil is often sold as a health aid. Shark Oil Contaminated by VCR Chemical Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20080421113030 Mon, 21 Apr 2008 11:30:30 EST Getty Images | Reducing the amount of red meat in your diet has a bigger effect than going local. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/18/green-planet-diet.html Reducing the amount of red meat in your diet has a bigger effect than going local. Eating Green: Food Type Trumps Distance Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080418173030 Fri, 18 Apr 2008 17:30:30 EST Getty Images | America's storm-making jet stream is headed northward. Is global warming to blame? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/18/jet-stream-storms.html America's storm-making jet stream is headed northward. Is global warming to blame? America's Jet Stream Creeping North Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20080418144530 Fri, 18 Apr 2008 14:45:30 EST AP Photo/NOAA | Soaring temperatures in Asia boost the world's surface heat. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/18/warmest-march.html Soaring temperatures in Asia boost the world's surface heat. Record Heat for Land Surfaces in March Associated Press earth 20080418095500 Fri, 18 Apr 2008 09:55:00 EST NOAA | An underwater robot spots a dangerous algal bloom in the Gulf of Mexico. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/18/algae-bloom-robot.html An underwater robot spots a dangerous algal bloom in the Gulf of Mexico days before a major oyster festival. Algae-Bot Scouts for Toxic Blooms Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080418093030 Fri, 18 Apr 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | Scientists pinpoint the source of a mysterious song ringing out from Antarctica. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/18/antarctica-iceberg-song.html Scientists pinpoint the source of a mysterious song ringing out from Antarctica. Singing Icebergs Get Record Deal Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080418090030 Fri, 18 Apr 2008 09:00:30 EST Getty Images | A waterfall flowed at three times the volume of Niagra for an hour in Greenland. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/17/greenland-waterfall.html A powerful waterfall flowed at three times the volume of Niagra for about an hour at a Greenland ice sheet. Mighty Waterfall Gushed at Greenland Ice Sheet Associated Press earth 20080417150000 Thu, 17 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST USGS | At least one kind of calcite-building ocean plant appears to excel as CO2 rises. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/17/phytoplankton-carbon.html Rising CO2 levels may not mean all gloom and doom. At least one kind of calcite-building ocean plant appears to excel under the conditions. Plankton Hold Surprise for Climate Research Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080417140000 Thu, 17 Apr 2008 14:00:00 EST Science | Ancient bones and buried artifacts help build the seismological record books. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/17/earthquake-archaeology.html Ancient bones and buried artifacts help build the seismological record books. 'Earthquake Archaeology' Blends Two Histories Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080417093030 Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:30:30 EST USGS | A report concludes China has surpassed the United States in carbon dioxide emissions. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/16/china-pollution-carbon.html A new report concludes China has already surpassed the United States in carbon dioxide emissions. China Now World's Top Polluter AFP earth 20080416141500 Wed, 16 Apr 2008 14:15:00 EST Getty Images | A subtle and previously unknown global vibration has been found at Earth's quietest seismic stations. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/16/earth-love-hum.html A subtle and previously unknown global vibration has been found at Earth's quietest seismic stations. Worldwide 'Love' Vibe Detected Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080416103030 Wed, 16 Apr 2008 10:30:30 EST USGS | An underground nuclear waste dump contains 253-million-year-old cellulose. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/15/ancient-cellulose.html Salt deposits in an underground nuclear waste dump contained 253-million-year-old organic material, scientists discover in a find that could offer clues to searching for life on other planets. Mine Yields 253-Million-Year-Old Cellulose Matt Mygatt, Associated Press earth 20080415111500 Tue, 15 Apr 2008 11:15:00 EST AP Photo/Courtesy of Jack Griffith | Hawaii's famous Kilauea volcano offers a rare view of glowing magma. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/15/volcano-hawaii-lava.html Hawaii's famous Kilauea volcano offers a rare view of glowing magma. Kilauea Volcano Bares Glowing Vent Audrey McAvoy, Associated Press earth 20080415110030 Tue, 15 Apr 2008 11:00:30 EST AP Photo | A tracking system can detect a hurricane revving up just before reaching shore. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/15/hurricane-prediction.html A new tracking system could save lives by detecting if a hurricane gathers quick momentum before reaching shore. 3-D Hurricane Tracking System Avoids Surprises Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080415094500 Tue, 15 Apr 2008 09:45:00 EST AP Photo/Doug Pizac | A low-tech pilot project is improving the lives of desert coastal communities. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/14/eritrea-red-sea.html A low-tech pilot project is improving the lives of desert coastal communities along the Red Sea. Eritrean Desert Blooms Under New Scheme Peter Martell, AFP earth 20080414173030 Mon, 14 Apr 2008 17:30:30 EST Getty Images | A new forecast predicts a large earthquake will shake California in the next 30 years. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/14/california-quake.html A new forecast predicts there is a 99.7 percent chance that a large earthquake will shake California in the next 30 years. Big Quake to Rock Calif. by 2037 Alicia Chang, Associated Press earth 20080414141500 Mon, 14 Apr 2008 14:15:00 EST AP Photo/Doug Pizac | Millions of years ago, Earth bounced back from an ancient wave of warming. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/14/ancient-global-cooling.html More than 33 million years ago, Earth bounced back from a different kind of global warming. But how? How a Warming Earth Once Cooled Off Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080414130030 Mon, 14 Apr 2008 13:00:30 EST Getty Images | The mosaic-like patterns on the surface of leaves finally get an explanation. But is it the right one? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/11/plant-vein.html The mosaic-like patterns on the surface of leaves finally get an explanation. But is it the right one? Leaf Veins 'Crack' Under Stress Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080411115030 Fri, 11 Apr 2008 11:50:30 EST Image courtesy David A. Bernstein | Madagascar gets an unprecedented conservation road map. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/10/madagascar-conservation.html Madagascar gets an unprecedented conservation road map. Madagascar's Fragile Balance: Earth Writ Small? AFP earth 20080410170030 Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:00:30 EST AP Photo | Could CO2 be used to make plastics, even fuel? Yes, but it's no easy feat. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/10/carbon-dioxide-plastic.html An optimistic group of scientists is working to make plastics, and even fuels, out of carbon dioxide emissions. But will their schemes ever work? Carbon Dioxide: Good for Something? Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080410100030 Thu, 10 Apr 2008 10:00:30 EST Getty Images | Hurricane researchers predict this year's season will be "well above average." http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/09/hurricane-season.html A noted hurricane researcher predicts that this year's season will be "well above average." Packed Hurricane Season Ahead Danica Coto, Associated Press earth 20080409150000 Wed, 09 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST AP Photo/Lisa Poole | Non-convective winds may be more deadly than hurricanes and tornadoes. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/09/high-winds-deaths.html Mountain winds, dust storms, gap winds and winter storm winds could potentially kill more people than both tornadoes and hurricane winds. 'Other' Killer Winds May Take More Lives Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080409091500 Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:15:00 EST Getty Images | Analysis of jet contrails finds that conditions in April and October favor the markings. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/08/jet-contrails.html Analysis of jet contrails finds that conditions in April and October favor the sun-blocking markings. April Weather Brings More Contrails Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080408133000 Tue, 08 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST AP Photo/Frank Rumpenhorst | The release of water through Glen Canyon Dam was designed to restore sand habitats. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/08/grand-cayon-flows.html The engineered release of gushing water through Glen Canyon Dam was designed to restore sand habitats. So far it's not certain if the dramatic experiment was a success. Water Gush at Grand Canyon Has Mixed Results Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080408113000 Tue, 08 Apr 2008 11:30:00 EST David Walsh, Bureau of Reclamation | Viewed over long time scales, the Earth's crust behaves in some surprisingly shifty ways. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/07/earth-crust-mantle.html Viewed over long time scales, the Earth's crust behaves in some surprisingly shifty ways. Earth's Crust Shows Long-Term Wiggle Room Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080407094530 Mon, 07 Apr 2008 09:45:30 EST USGS | Protected areas don't do much to preserve corals in the face of climate change, warn scientists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/04/coral-reef-protected.html Setting aside Marine Protected Areas doesn't do much to protect corals in the face of climate change and human development, warn scientists. Reefs at Threat, Even When Protected Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080404153030 Fri, 04 Apr 2008 15:30:30 EST AP Photo | Scientists cart tortoises to new habitats to make room for army training in the Mojave Desert. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/04/desert-tortoise.html Scientists cart tortoises to new habitats to make room for army training in the Mojave Desert. Desert Tortoises Take Orders From Army Associated Press earth 20080404093030 Fri, 04 Apr 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | China's thriving economy has opened up new routes for invasive species. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/03/china-invasive-species.html China's thriving economy has opened up new routes for incoming non-native species in the country. As China Booms, Invasive Species Flood in Jessica Marshall, Discovery News earth 20080403094500 Thu, 03 Apr 2008 09:45:00 EST R.N. Mack | Lightning's many forms are traced to the layer cake of charges within thunderheads. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/04/02/lightning-shapes.html Researchers explain lightning's many forms by identifying the layer cake of charges within thunderheads. Lightning's Forms Traced to Electrical 'Layer Cake' Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080402093000 Fri, 02 Apr 2008 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | Meteor impact glass found in Antarctica sugests a huge crater may be even bigger. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/31/antarctica-crater.html Bits of meteor impact glass found in Antarctica suggests a new southern edge to a vast debris field from a mysterious crater that might have covered a tenth of Earth's surface. Mysterious Crater Widens to Antarctica Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080331143000 Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:30:00 EST Geology | At least 26 cities are expected to turn off the lights on major landmarks. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/28/earh-hour-lights.html At least 26 cities around the world are expected to turn off the lights on major landmarks to raise awareness about global warming. Cities to Switch Off Lights for 'Earth Hour' Madeleine Coorey, AFP earth 20080328110000 Fri, 28 Mar 2008 11:00:00 EST AP Photo/Paul Miller | A new interactive shows switching to cleaner energy is only good for the economy. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/28/green-energy-economy.html An interactive by Yale economists shows that no matter what model is applied, switching to cleaner energy is only good for the economy. Doing the Math on Green Energy Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080328093000 Fri, 28 Mar 2008 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | Scientists blame warming for the collapse of a 160-square-mile chunk of ice. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/25/antarctica-ice-collapse.html Scientists say global warming is to blame for the collapse of a 160-square-mile chunk of ice from Antarctica. Gigantic Antarctic Ice Chunk Collapses Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20080325153000 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 15:30:00 EST British Antarctic Survey | Global warming is changing the internal dynamics of Lake Tahoe, warn scientists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/25/lake-tahoe-warming.html Global warming is changing the internal dynamics of Lake Tahoe, warn scientists. Lake Tahoe Threatened by Warming? Associated Press earth 20080325103030 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 10:30:30 EST Getty Images | A survey of New Zealand's Antarctic waters turns up oversized starfish and jellyfish. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/21/giant-marine-life.html A survey of New Zealand's Antarctic waters turns up oversized starfish and jellyfish, as well as other surprises. Giant Starfish, Lilly Fields Found in Antarctic Waters Ray Lilley, Associated Press earth 20080321084500 Fri, 21 Mar 2008 08:45:00 EST AP Photo/NZ IPY-CAML, John Mitchell | Ancient volcanic eruptions may have released vast amounts of dino-killing sulfur. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/20/sulfur-dinosaur-extinct.html Huge volcanic eruptions some 65 million years ago may have released vast amounts of dino-killing sulfur into the atmosphere. Sulfurous Winters May Have Killed Dinos Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080320140000 Thu, 20 Mar 2008 14:00:00 EST Science/AAAS | Megaherbs once covered Antarctica and were swept to islands, where they now grow. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/20/antarctica-megaherb.html Megaherbs once covered Antarctica and were swept to tiny islands, where they now grow. Megaherbs Once Flourished in Antarctica Stephen Pincock, ABC Science Online earth 20080320103000 Thu, 20 Mar 2008 10:30:00 EST Peter Goltra | Ball lightning, reportedly, appears from nowhere and passes through walls. But how? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/20/ball-lightning-physics.html The elusive phenomenon known as ball lightning is still a scientific mystery, says an Australian physicist. Ball Lightning Bamboozles Physicist Anna Salleh, ABC Science Online earth 20080320100030 Thu, 20 Mar 2008 10:00:30 EST Getty Images | The signs of spring are arriving earlier than ever. Is global warming to blame? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/19/spring-global-warming.html The signs of spring are arriving earlier than ever. Is global warming to blame? Global Warming Ushers Spring Forward Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20080319144530 Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:45:30 EST Getty Images | Not every volcano is a disaster. Some are even farm-friendly. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/18/volcano-mexico-arizona.html Not every volcano is a disaster. Some are even farm-friendly. Volcanoes Giveth, and Taketh Away Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080318103030 Tue, 18 Mar 2008 10:30:30 EST Photo by Peter J. Pilles, Jr. | A high-tech buoy network is standing guard to protect the world from tsunamis. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/13/tsunami-buoy.html Three years after the disastrous Indian Ocean tsunami, a high-tech buoy network is standing guard to protect the coastal United States. Tsunami! How to Catch a Wave Before It Kills Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080313103030 Thu, 13 Mar 2008 10:30:30 EST NOAA | Flooded roads, deformed railroads and weak bridges may be the wave of the future. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/11/global-warming-transport.html Flooded roads, deformed railroads and weak bridges may be the wave of the future. Global Warming: A Threat to Infrastructure? Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20080311144530 Tue, 11 Mar 2008 14:45:30 EST Evan Hurd Archive/Getty Images | A violent meteor impact is behind Utah's famed Upheaval Dome. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/11/upheaval-dome-utah.html A violent meteor impact is behind Utah's famed Upheaval Dome. Utah Crater Mystery Cracked Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080311100030 Tue, 11 Mar 2008 10:00:30 EST USNP | Could a giant quake cause a modern Mediterranean mega-tsunami? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/10/tsunami-ancient-rome.html Could a giant temblor like the one that devastated Rome in 365 A.D. cause another Mediterranean mega-tsunami? Tsunami That Razed Rome Studied Anew Von Richard Ingham, AFP earth 20080310123030 Mon, 10 Mar 2008 12:30:30 EST Getty Images | Calculate your carbon footprint, for yourself or your city, with a new online calculator. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/10/carbon-calculator.html Calculate your carbon footprint, for yourself or your city, with a new online calculator. Carbon Calculator Tallies Green Cred Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080310093030 Mon, 10 Mar 2008 09:30:30 EST Evan Hurd Archive/Getty Images | The Grand Canyon may have been carved from the bottom up, finds research. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/06/grand-canyon-formation.html The Grand Canyon may have been carved from the bottom up by a subterranean Colorado River, finds a flurry of new research. River Vanished to Build Grand Canyon Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080306140000 Thu, 06 Mar 2008 14:00:00 EST Victor Polyak | Catastrophic quakes are rarer than thought, but they could hit surprising spots. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/06/earthquake-fault-risk.html Catastrophic quakes are rarer than thought, but they could hit surprising spots. Mega-Quake Study Offers Good News (and Bad) Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080306094530 Thu, 06 Mar 2008 09:45:30 EST Getty Images | The Grand Canyon is being flooded on purpose -- all in the name of science. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/05/grand-canyon-flood.html The Grand Canyon is being flooded on purpose -- all in the name of science. Manmade Flood Unleashed in Grand Canyon Amanda Lee Myers, Associated Press earth 20080305170030 Wed, 05 Mar 2008 17:00:30 EST AP Photo | Whooping cranes migrate along the same areas where wind turbines may go. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/04/wind-farms-cranes.html Rare whooping cranes migrate along the same areas where industry wants to place huge wind turbines. Whooping Cranes Threatened by Wind Farms Karin Zeitvogel, AFP earth 20080304110000 Tue, 04 Mar 2008 11:00:00 EST Randy Olson/National Geographic/Getty Images | Far more dust would be needed to mimick the cooling effects of volcanic eruptions. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/04/dust-earth-cooling.html It turns out mimicking the cooling effects of volcanic eruptions might not work to mask global warming since far more dust would be needed. Climate-Cooling Plan Goes Up in Dust Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080304093000 Tue, 04 Mar 2008 09:30:00 EST USGS/Time Life Pictures/Getty Images | Hazardous yellow sand from China is blowing into other Asian nations. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/03/03/japan-desert-sand.html Hazardous yellow sand from China is blowing into other Asian nations. China's Yellow Sand Hits Japan, S. Korea AFP earth 20080303093030 Mon, 03 Mar 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | When moisture condenses to form snowflakes, it often clings to bacteria. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/28/snow-bacteria.html When moisture condenses in the atmosphere to form snowflakes, it most often clings to bacteria, research finds. Snow Packed With Bacteria Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20080228144500 Fri, 28 Feb 2008 14:45:00 EST AP Photo/Mike Groll | A federal study finds evidence of 70 contaminants in 20 national parks. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/27/parks-contaminants.html A six-year federal study finds evidence of 70 contaminants in 20 national parks and monuments. Contaminants Permeate National Parks Matthew Brown, Associated Press earth 20080227100000 Wed, 27 Feb 2008 10:00:00 EST AP Photo/Al Grillo | The Svalbard Global Seed Vault is designed to protect food crops from warming. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/26/seed-vault-arctic.html The Svalbard Global Seed Vault, designed to protect millions of food crops from climate change, opened in the Arctic. Doomsday Seed Vault Debuts in Arctic Doug Mellgren, Associated Press earth 20080226113000 Tue, 26 Feb 2008 11:30:00 EST Mari Tefre/Svalbard Global Seed Vault | Big methane gas releases ended past ice ages and could worsen global warming today. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/26/methane-global-warming.html Ice cores show spikes in methane gas releases helped end past ice ages and the same event could exacerbate global warming today. Gas Releases Helped End Ice Ages Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080226093000 Tue, 26 Feb 2008 09:30:00 EST Ian MacDonald/NOAA | Gardeners are enlisted to watch for signs of global warming in their yards. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/25/backyard-climate-change.html Gardeners and other flower lovers are enlisted to watch for signs of global warming by the changing timing of spring blooms. Backyard Gardeners Keep Tabs on Warming Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080225093000 Mon, 25 Feb 2008 09:30:00 EST Ernst Haas/Getty Images | Climate modeling shows places as far north as New Jersey could soon host pythons. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/22/python-climate-change.html Climate modeling shows that the weather could become quite suitable for predatory pythons as far north as New Jersey. Pythons Could Slither North as Climate Warms Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080222103000 Fri, 22 Feb 2008 10:30:00 EST ROBERT SULLIVAN/AFP/Getty Images | The deadliest kind of avalanche could be more common in a warming world. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/20/avalanche-global-warming.html The deadliest kind of avalanche could be more common in a warming world. Avalanche Forecast Worsens With Warming Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080220140030 Wed, 20 Feb 2008 14:00:30 EST Geosphere | Among Antarctic creatures found were animals resembling thin glass structures. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/20/antarctica-species.html Among the odd-looking creatures found were tunicates, plankton-eating animals that resemble thin glass structures up to a yard tall. Strange Creatures Found in Antarctic Waters Associated Press earth 20080220120000 Wed, 20 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST AP Photo/Australian Antarctic Division, Martin Riddle | Get ready for coarser wines in a warming world, say experts. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/15/global-warming-wine.html Get ready for coarser wines in a warming world, say experts. World Wine Map Changing With Climate Marcelo Aparicio, AFP earth 20080215150030 Fri, 15 Feb 2008 15:00:30 EST Getty Images | Sharks in Antarctica? It could happen -- and soon -- thanks to warming seas. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/15/antarctica-predators.html Sharks in Antarctica? It could happen -- and soon -- thanks to warming seas. Antarctic Warming Creating Predator 'Smorgasbord' Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080215120030 Fri, 15 Feb 2008 12:00:30 EST AP Photo | From warming to runoff to trash, humans have left their mark on oceans. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/15/oceans-humans-planet.html From warming waters to runoff to trash to polluting ships, humans have left their mark on nearly every inch of the world's oceans. Every Inch of Oceans Affected by People Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20080215091500 Fri, 15 Feb 2008 09:15:00 EST AFP/Getty Images | Engineers propose building a backup satellite city for Istanbul. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/14/satellite-city-istanbul.html Since Istanbul is vulnerable to major quakes, engineers propose planning and building a backup satellite city from scratch. Catastrophe? 'Istanbul 2' Offers Backup Tracy Staedter, Discovery News earth 20080214100000 Thu, 14 Feb 2008 10:00:00 EST Purdue University | Open oceans appear to resist too much warming, thereby protecting coral reefs. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/13/coral-reefs-warming.html Open oceans appear to resist too much warming, thereby shielding coral reefs as the climate heats up. Ocean Thermostat May Shield Reefs Michael Casey, Associated Press earth 20080213150000 Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST AP Photo | Since the king penguin takes a year to breed, it is particularly vulnerable warming. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/12/king-penguin-warming.html Since the king penguin takes an entire year to finish their breeding cycle, it is particularly vulnerable to even slight warming. King Penguin Could Be Wiped Out by Warming AFP earth 20080212133000 Tue, 12 Feb 2008 13:30:00 EST Getty Images | Aerial data show lava and water have battled for eons at the Grand Canyon. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/12/grand-canyon-lava.html The Grand Canyon was not just carved by water -- it has been the scene of periodic wars between the Colorado River and volcanic eruptions. Lava and Water Battled at Grand Canyon Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080212093000 Tue, 12 Feb 2008 09:30:00 EST Getty Images | Finding the fastest way from point A to B may get easier with a new real-time system. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/11/city-motion-traffic.html Finding the fastest way from point A to B in a big city may get easier with a real-time system that monitors traffic and crowds and finds the best route for that moment. City Pulse Captured for Real-Time Tripping Tracy Staedter, Discovery News earth 20080211090000 Mon, 11 Feb 2008 09:00:00 EST Senseable City Lab | Clearing land for biofuel crops doesn't make environmental sense, argue some. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/08/biofuels-global-warming.html Clearing land for biofuel crops doesn't make environmental sense, argue some. Biofuels: Worse for Earth Than Oil? AFP earth 20080208180030 Fri, 08 Feb 2008 18:00:30 EST Getty Images | Could the next source of clean energy be in the clouds? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/07/raindrops-energy.html Could the next source of clean energy be in the clouds? It's Raining Energy. Hallelujah! Tracy Staedter, Discovery News earth 20080207163030 Thu, 07 Feb 2008 16:30:30 EST Getty Images | Nevada's fault-ridden landscape reveals the remains of a 33.8-million-year-old supervolcano. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/07/caetano-supervolcano.html Northern Nevada's fault-ridden landscape has sliced and diced the remains of a 33.8-million-year-old supervolcano. Nevada Supervolcano's Flesh Exposed Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080207103030 Thu, 07 Feb 2008 10:30:30 EST Geosphere | Some worry this may lead to a reduced focus on conservation efforts. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/05/parks-computers.html Americans are spending less time in the great outdoors, according to new research that claims it could have an impact on health and conservation. Great Outdoors Losing Appeal as Virtual Leisure Rises Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20080205100000 Tue, 05 Feb 2008 10:00:00 EST AP Photo/Gary Kazanjian | China practices cloud-seeding techniques in advance of the 2008 Summer Olympics. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/02/01/china-weather-olympics.html China practices cloud-seeding techniques to make sure rain doesn't dampen the spirits -- or the streets -- of the 2008 Summer Olympics. China's Weathermakers Prep for Olympics Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20080201143030 Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:30:30 EST AP Photo | South Asia and Southern Africa top the list with climate-sensitive agriculture. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/31/hunger-crops.html South Asia and Southern Africa top the list, with climate-sensitive agriculture. Where Hunger Will Hit in 2030 Sarah Goforth, Discovery News earth 20080131143030 Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:30:30 EST International Rivers Network | A warmer Atlantic Ocean is behind recent increases in severe hurricanes. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/30/warming-hurricanes.html Warm the Atlantic Ocean by a degree and see a corresponding jump in severe hurricanes, claims new research. Warmer Atlantic Explains Worse Hurricanes Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20080130144500 Wed, 30 Jan 2008 14:45:00 EST AP Photo/NOAA An asteroid that blasted Siberia was likely smaller than previously estimated. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/29/asteroid-risk.html An asteroid that blasted Siberia a century ago was likely smaller than previously estimated. Asteroids Pose Greater Risk, Finds Research Sue Major Holmes, Associated Press earth 20080129143000 Tue, 29 Jan 2008 14:30:00 EST AP Photo | Environmental groups say China's investment in the project is largely to blame. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/29/cambodia-dam-china.html Environmental groups say China's investment in the project is largely to blame. Cambodian Dam Threatens Protected Forest AFP earth 20080129140030 Tue, 29 Jan 2008 14:00:30 EST International Rivers Network | Investigations of bizarre rock formations in Australia reveal evidence of early life. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/29/life-earth-pilbara.html A French team drills into the bizarre rock formations of Pilbara in Australia and find evidence of Earth's earliest life. Ancient Life Remains Found in Mysterious Rocks AFP earth 20080129133000 Tue, 29 Jan 2008 13:30:00 EST Sam Abell/National Geographic/Getty Images | Hidden beneath the ice, Ellsworth could be a test bed for future ventures in space. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/28/lake-ellsworth.html Lake Ellsworth, hidden deep beneath Antarctica's ice sheet, could be key to understanding life on other planets. Ancient Antarctic Lake Tapped for Study Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20080128150030 Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:00:30 EST University of Edinborough | Government officials do not know where, or exactly when, the powerless satellite could hit. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/28/spy-satellite-earth.html Government officials do not know where, or exactly when, the powerless satellite could hit. Spy Satellite Could Crash to Earth Eileen Sullivan, Associated Press earth 20080128101530 Mon, 28 Jan 2008 10:15:30 EST Getty Images | People have so changed the planet that the Holocene is over, say some geologists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/28/geology-epoch.html Say goodbye to the Holocene: People have so changed the planet that the next epoch may have arrived. Earth Entering New Geologic Epoch? Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080128093030 Mon, 28 Jan 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images| The town is being poisoned by the lingering effects of a meteorite strike. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/25/meteorite-drinking-water.html Gypsumville, Manitoba is being poisoned by the lingering effects of a meteorite strike, which gouged a crater lake eons ago. Alien Impact Poisons Canadian Town Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080125140000 Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:00:00 EST Jonathan S. Blair/National Geographic/Getty Images | It takes dire circumstances to prompt a species to produce a clone. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/23/asexual-clones.html While sex can be an expensive act, research shows it takes dire circumstances to prompt a species to skip it and produce a clone. Only Species at Extremes Skip Sex Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20080123140000 Wed, 23 Jan 2008 14:00:00 EST Spencer Barrett | A new study clashes with previous research in suggesting the U.S. will see fewer hurricanes. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/23/warming-hurricanes.html A new federal study clashes with previous research that has suggested global warming would increase intense hurricane frequency. Warming to Reduce, Not Increase Hurricanes Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20080123114500 Wed, 23 Jan 2008 11:45:00 EST AP Photo/Lisa Poole The tidal waves within the ocean are difficult to detect, but are critical. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/22/tidal-waves.html The tidal waves within the ocean are difficult to detect, but are critical in stirring up ocean currents and driving climate. Giant Internal Waves Caught Breaking Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080122103000 Mon, 22 Jan 2008 10:30:00 EST ESA | Older, thicker ice layers that held up longer against warming, are vanishing. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/18/arctic-ice-melt.html New measurements show newer, thinner ice is quickly replacing the older, thicker layers, which held up longer against warming. Thick, Old Arctic Ice Nearly Gone Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080118110000 Fri, 18 Jan 2008 11:00:00 EST Getty/Kim Heacox | Mathematicians model how snow crystals grow with stunning realism. Now what? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/18/math-model-snowflake.html Mathematicians model how snow crystals grow with stunning realism. Now what? How to Build a Snowflake Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080118093030 Fri, 18 Jan 2008 09:30:30 EST Ken Libbrecht, Caltech | Would wildlife be better off if aging dams and bridges were simply removed? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/17/bridge-dam-wildlife.html Would wildlife be better off if aging dams and bridges were simply removed? Let It Crumble: When No Infrastructure Is Best Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080117133030 Thu, 17 Jan 2008 13:30:30 EST Michael Berk | The tree's flowering looks like a Christmas tree growing out of the top. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/17/flowering-palm-tree.html Scientists describe the tree's flowering as looking like a Christmas tree growing out of the top. Newfound Tree Flowers Once Every Century Jonny Hogg, Associated Press earth 20080117100000 Thu, 17 Jan 2008 10:00:00 EST AP Photo/Royal Botanic Gardens, John Dransfield | The crown-of-thorns starfish could devour Indonesia's unique coral reef. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/15/starfish-indonesia.html The crown-of-thorns starfish could devour the unique coral reef. Predatory Starfish Threatens Indonesian Waters AFP earth 20080115153030 Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:30:30 EST Getty Images | Tsunami-like waves may have triggered unprecendented explosions at the park. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/15/yellowstone-tsunami.html Some well known landmarks at Yellowstone Lake were likely forged when tsunami-like waves triggered the biggest ever hydrothermal explosion. Ancient Tsunami Behind Huge Yellowstone Explosion Associated Press earth 20080115100000 Tue, 15 Jan 2008 10:00:00 EST AP Photo/National Park Service| Blame global warming for pitiful ski seasons and an early spring, say climate researchers. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/14/northeast-warm-winter.html Blame global warming for pitiful ski seasons and an early spring, say climate researchers. Northeast Winters Warming Fast Michael Hill, Associated Press earth 20080114100030 Mon, 14 Jan 2008 10:00:30 EST AP Photo | Plate tectonics could be key to life on Earth. Does it exist anywhere else? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/11/plate-tectonics-earth.html Four decades after the revolutionary discovery of plate tectonics, geologists are still putting the puzzle together. Plate Tectonics: Earth's Lucky Geology Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080111093030 Fri, 11 Jan 2008 09:30:30 EST NASA | African acacia trees and ants truly need each other for survival, research finds. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/10/ants-trees-ecosystem.html African acacia trees and some ants truly need each other for survival, new research finds. Ants and Trees Rub Each Others' Backs Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20080110144500 Thu, 10 Jan 2008 14:45:00 EST Science/Todd Palmer | The ocean floor's plumbing system works in strange ways, scientists report. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/09/deep-sea-vents.html The ocean floor's plumbing system works in strange ways, scientists report. Deep Sea Vents: Hot, Wet, Weird AFP earth 20080109164530 Wed, 09 Jan 2008 16:45:30 EST AP Photo | Coastal development and agriculture may be the culprits in coral reefs' decline. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/09/coral-reef-environment.html New research says human coastal development and agriculture are the main culprits in the sharp decline of coral reefs. Humans Blamed in Coral Reef Disappearance AFP earth 20080109140000 Wed, 09 Jan 2008 14:00:00 EST William West/AFP/Getty Images | Converting switch grass to ethanol still isn't easy, but we're getting there. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/09/switch-grass-ethanol.html Converting switch grass to ethanol still isn't easy, but we're getting there. Prairie Grass: Fuel of the Future? Josh Funk, Asssociated Press earth 20080109113030 Wed, 09 Jan 2008 11:30:30 EST Getty Images| The waves reached 85 feet and required some luck and lots of daring to ride. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/09/big-wave-surfing.html The waves off the coast of Southern California reached around 85 feet tall and took a team of surfers some luck and lots of daring to ride. Surfers Claim to Ride Biggest Wave Ever Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080109090000 Wed, 09 Jan 2008 09:00:00 EST Robert Brown/BillabongXXL.com | Scientists crack the mystery of why the famous Hope Diamond glows red. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/08/hope-diamond.html Scientists crack the mystery of why the famous Hope Diamond glows red after exposure to ultraviolet light. Hope Diamond's Red Glow Explained Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080108133000 Tue, 08 Jan 2008 13:30:00 EST The Smithsonian | The frozen mammoth could reveal whether climate change killed its species. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/04/mammoth-climate.html Researchers are hopeful the 6-month-old calf will reveal whether climate change drove its species to extinction some 37,500 years ago. Frozen Baby Mammoth to Shed Light on Climate Change Hiroko Tabuchi, Associated Press earth 20080104133000 Fri, 04 Jan 2008 13:30:00 EST AP Photo/Shizuo Kambayashi | A growing desire for clothing with minimal carbon footprints could help U.S. farmers. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/04/environment-fashion.html A growing desire for organic clothing with minimal carbon footprints promises to help some U.S. cotton farms. Eco Fashion Could Boost U.S. Farmers Garance Burke, Associated Press earth 20080104110000 Fri, 04 Jan 2008 11:00:00 EST AP Photo/Gary Kazanjian | Surging oil prices could be good news for the environment. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/03/oil-price-environment.html Surging oil prices could be good news for the environment. $100 Crude: Blessing in Disguise? Marlowe Hood, AFP earth 20080103130030 Thu, 03 Jan 2008 13:00:30 EST Getty Images| The nonpartisan League of Conservation Voters scores the presidential candidates. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/03/obama-environment.html The nonpartisan League of Conservation Voters scores candidates on their environmental records and views. See who flunked. Candidates' Green Cred Put to Test Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20080103093030 Thu, 03 Jan 2008 09:30:30 EST Getty Images| New research shifts the blame for arctic ice melt from snow loss to thermal layers. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/02/arctic-ice-melt.html Scientists have fingered the loss of snow or ice as a key factor in accelerating warming, but new research claims it has more to do with changes in the way heat is transported miles above Earth. Shifting Layers Over Arctic Blamed for Ice Melt Marlowe Hood, AFP earth 20080102143000 Wed, 02 Jan 2008 14:30:00 EST NASA | Inspired by its namesake, the Flying Fish aircraft will monitor the ocean environment. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/27/unmanned-seaplane.html Inspired by its namesake, the Flying Fish aircraft will serve as part of a fleet of devices that monitor the ocean environment. Unmanned Seaplane Takes Off Tracy Staedter, Discovery News earth 20071227123030 Thu, 27 Dec 2007 12:30:30 EST University of Michigan | Irwin hopes to raise awareness about Japanese whaling in Antarctic waters. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/27/terri-irwin-whale.html The widow of "Crocodile Hunter" Steve Irwin hopes to raise awareness about Japanese whaling in Antarctic waters. Terri Irwin to Launch Whale Rescue Associated Press earth 20071227103030 Thu, 27 Dec 2007 10:30:30 EST Getty Images| New limits on ecotourism are resulting in boom times for the gentle giants. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/26/whale-shark-fingerprint.html New limits on ecotourism are resulting in boom times for the gentle giants, say marine scientists. Whale Sharks Protected From...Deadly Swimmers? Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20071226103030 Wed, 26 Dec 2007 10:30:30 EST Brad Norman | Last time Earth suffered a carbon-induced fever, algae saved the day. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/26/global-warming-ocean.html Last time Earth suffered a carbon-induced fever, it was algae that saved the day. How the Oceans Once Ended Global Warming Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20071226093030 Wed, 26 Dec 2007 09:30:30 EST Getty Images| The tech offers a way for carbon dioxide emitters to produce fuel from their waste. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/18/fuel-carbon-dioxide.html The Sunshine to Petrol project may offer a way for big carbon dioxide emitters to produce more fuel from their waste. Device Taps Sunshine to Convert CO2 Into Fuel Tracy Staedter, Discovery News earth 20071218103000 Tue, 18 Dec 2007 10:30:00 EST AP Photo/Tony Dejak | Asteroids can spur life as well as end it, argue geologists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/17/asteroid-impact-evolution.html Famed for their destructiveness, asteroids can spur life as well as end it, argue geologists. Asteroids Key to Biodiversity Boom? Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20071217133030 Mon, 17 Dec 2007 13:30:30 EST Getty Images | An Arctic town known as Santa's village has had little snow in recent years. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/17/warming-santa-finland.html A Finnish Arctic town known as Santa Claus' village has experienced less and less snow each year, and some blame global warming. Santa's Village Lacking Snow Gael Branchereau, AFP earth 20071217110000 Mon, 17 Dec 2007 11:00:00 EST GAEL BRANCHEREAU/AFP/Getty Images| The discoveries include a giant rat and pygmy possum. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/17/indonesia-lost-world.html Conservation workers find a giant rat and pygmy possum hidden in Indonesia's Foja Mountains. Indonesia's 'Lost World' Yields Two New Species AFP earth 20071217103030 Mon, 17 Dec 2007 10:30:30 EST Getty Images | Bruce Beehler/CI | As ice retreats off Hudson Bay, the bears must venture further out for food. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/14/polar-bears-warming.html As warming causes ice to retreat off Canada's Hudson Bay, the bears must venture further out for food. Canadian Polar Bears Fighting for Survival Paul Richards, AFP earth 20071214150000 Fri, 14 Dec 2007 15:00:00 EST GettyImages | The average annual temperature is predicted to near 54.3 degrees Fahrenheit. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/14/warmest-year-weather.html The average annual temperature is predicted to near 54.3 degrees Fahrenheit. 2007 Among Warmest Years Ever in U.S. Jennifer C. Kerr, Associated Press earth 20071214110000 Fri, 14 Dec 2007 11:00:00 EST AP Photo | Download our Discovery News widget to get the latest in animals, archaeology, dinos, earth, space, tech and more! http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/12/widget.html Download our Discovery News widget to get the latest in animals, archaeology, dinos, earth, space, tech and more! Put Discovery News on Your Blog or Wherever You Want Discovery News Team earth 20071212203000 Wed, 12 Dec 2007 20:30:00 EST DCL | A bombardment of meteors may have triggered early Earth's crust to overturn. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/10/meteors-earth.html A bombardment of meteors may have triggered early Earth's crust to continuously overturn. Meteor Pelting May Have Triggered Plate Tectonics Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20071210120000 Mon, 10 Dec 2007 12:00:00 EST NASA | Seaweed could be a potent weapon against global warming, say scientists. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/10/seaweed-carbon-sink.html Scientists at a climate conference in Bali say seaweed could be a potent weapon against global warming. Seaweed: The New Carbon Sink? Joseph Coleman, Associated Press earth 20071210113030 Mon, 10 Dec 2007 11:30:30 EST AP Photo | The plan harnesses the ocean's natural ability to absorb carbon dioxide. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/07/oceans-carbon-dioxide.html How can we reduce the tons of carbon we pump into the atmosphere? One plan uses the vast ocean's natural ability to absorb carbon dioxide. Oceans Would Suck Up CO2 in New Plan Tracy Staedter, Discovery News earth 20071207100000 Fri, 07 Dec 2007 10:00:00 EST AP Photo | Scientists hope they can alter the stomachs of cattle and sheep for similar flatulence. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/06/kangaroo-flatulence.html Scientists are trying to give the same kind of stomachs to cattle and sheep to cut greenhouse gas emissions in flatulence. Kangaroo Toots Better for Environment AFP earth 20071206110000 Thu, 06 Dec 2007 11:00:00 EST AP Photo/ Robert E. Klein | It's energy efficient. It's clean, compact and simple. And, above all, it's very cool. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/06/folding-scooter-tech.html It's energy efficient. It's clean, compact and simple. And, above all, it's very cool. Foldable Electric Scooter Made for Sharing Tracy Staedter, Discovery News earth 20071206090030 Thu, 06 Dec 2007 09:00:30 EST GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP/Getty Images | A dramatic episode of global cooling millions of years ago gets a reassessment. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/05/snowball-earth-climate.html A dramatic episode of global cooling hundreds of millions of years ago gets a reassessment. 'Snowball Earth' Was More a Slushball AFP earth 20071205150030 Wed, 05 Dec 2007 15:00:30 EST Getty Images | Conservation groups in Bali are thinking creatively to bring ailing reefs back to life. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/05/coral-reef-bali.html Conservation groups in Bali are thinking creatively to bring ailing reefs back to life. Electricity Revives Bali Coral Reefs Joseph Coleman, Associated Press earth 20071205110030 Wed, 05 Dec 2007 11:00:30 EST PNAS | Scientists have the goods on a large volcanic eruption at the bottom of the sea. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/04/undersea-volcano.html For the first time ever, scientists have the goods on a large volcanic eruption at the bottom of the sea. Undersea Volcano Caught on Camera Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20071204093030 Tue, 04 Dec 2007 09:30:30 EST AP Photo/Hugh Morton | Fickle wind power could become a reliable source by linking up farms. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/04/wind-farms-power.html Fickle wind power could become a reliable energy source by linking up farms before hooking into the grid, research finds. Linking Wind Farms Offers Energy Windfall Tracy Staedter, Discovery News earth 20071204093000 Tue, 04 Dec 2007 09:30:00 EST KAREN BLEIER/AFP/Getty Images | Divers exploring a "blue hole" stumble on a vast store of tropical fossils. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/03/tropical-island-fossils.html Divers exploring a Bahaman "blue hole" stumble on one of the world's largest collections of tropical fossils. Bahamas Sinkhole Yields Fossil Treasure Trove Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20071203170030 Mon, 03 Dec 2007 17:00:30 EST PNAS | The immediate aim is to launch a pact to replace the Kyoto Protocol. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/12/03/climate-change-bali.html The immediate aim is to launch a pact to replace the Kyoto Protocol for when it expires in 2012. Big Climate Conference Kicks Off in Bali Joseph Coleman, Associated Press earth 20071203113000 Mon, 03 Dec 2007 11:30:00 EST AP Photo/Dita Alangkara | The lighter-than-air gas has been discovered leaking from the ground in huge amounts. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/29/nevada-helium-gas.html The lighter-than-air gas has been discovered leaking from the ground in extraordinary amounts. Mysterious Helium Leak Detected in Nevada Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20071129143000 Thu, 29 Nov 2007 14:30:00 EST BLM | Climate change is causing earth's tropical zones to creep toward the poles. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/29/earth-tropics.html Climate change is causing earth's tropical zones to creep toward the poles. Earth's Tropical Belt Expanding Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20071129120030 Thu, 29 Nov 2007 12:00:30 EST Getty Images | NASA unveils a crystal clear, satellite-generated map of the frozen continent. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/28/antarctica-map.html NASA unveils a crystal clear, satellite-generated map of the frozen continent. Antarctica: Now Mapped in High-Def AFP earth 20071128153000 Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:30:00 EST USGS | The UN tree-planting initiative aims to combat climate change. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/28/tree-planting-forests.html A UN tree-planting initiative aims to combat climate change by bringing more green back to the planet. More Than 1 Billion Trees Planted in 2007 Bogonko Bosire, AFP earth 20071128093000 Wed, 28 Nov 2007 09:30:00 EST SONNY TUMBELAKA/AFP/Getty Images | Transgenic plants that need far less water to survive could be a boon to agriculture in drought-prone areas. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/27/drought-plant-genetics.html Transgenic plants could be a boon to agriculture in drought-prone areas. Superplants Survive Extreme Drought AFP earth 20071127093030 Tue, 27 Nov 2007 09:30:30 EST Getty Images | Mexico aims to protect the millions of butterflies that migrate there each winter. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/26/monarch-butterflies.html Mexico announces a broad plan to protect the millions of monarch butterflies that migrate to the country's mountains each winter. Monarch Butterflies Get Sweeping Protection Jessica Bernstein-Wax, Associated Press earth 20071126140000 Mon, 26 Nov 2007 14:00:00 EST AP Photo | A survey concludes that warming may be behind the dramatic increase. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/26/natural-disasters-warming.html A survey concludes that global warming may be behind the dramatic increase since 20 years ago in natural disasters. Natural Disasters Four Times More Common AFP earth 20071126123000 Mon, 26 Nov 2007 12:30:00 EST AP Photo/Andy Wong | The large fault looms near the proposed nuclear waste site at Yucca Mountain. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/23/las-vegas-fault.html A San Andreas-like fault in Nevada looms near the proposed nuclear waste repository at Yucca Mountain. Sleeping Fault Threatens Sin City? Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20071123113030 Fri, 23 Nov 2007 11:30:30 EST GSA | The Kumtag desert creeps ever closer to the historic Silk Road city of Dunhuang. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/20/china-desert.html The Kumtag desert creeps ever closer to the historic Silk Road city of Dunhuang. Desertification Threatens Ancient Chinese Town AFP earth 20071120164530 Tue, 20 Nov 2007 16:45:30 EST Kevin Raskoff/Census of Marine Life | A Greenpeace protest ship is on the tail, not far behind. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/19/japan-humpback-whale.html A Greenpeace protest ship is on the tail, not far behind. Japan Launches Humpback Hunt Hiroko Tabuchi, Associated Press earth 20071119124530 Mon, 19 Nov 2007 12:45:30 EST Kevin Raskoff/Census of Marine Life | U.S. leaders hope to fill the roads with hydrogen-powered cars in 20 years. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/19/hydrogen-fuel-energy.html U.S. leaders hope to fill the roads with hydrogen-powered cars in 20 years, but is that possible? Our Hydrogen Future Still Distant Jean-Louis Santini, AFP earth 20071119113030 Mon, 19 Nov 2007 11:30:30 EST Getty Images | U.N. experts warn global warming may have far-reaching and irreversible consequences. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/16/climate-change-ipcc.html U.N. experts warn that global warming may have far-reaching and irreversible consequences. U.N.: Climate Change 'Irreversible' AFP earth 20071116153030 Fri, 16 Nov 2007 15:30:30 EST Getty Images | Subtle shiverings of a dam shine a spotlight on structures within the Earth. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/16/seismic-dam-geology.html Scientists find they can use the subtle shiverings of a dam to shine a spotlight on structures within the Earth. Dam's Vibrations Offer Seismic 'Flashlight' Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20071116120000 Fri, 16 Nov 2007 12:00:00 EST Daniel R.H. O'Connell| More and more cities are setting up bike-sharing programs. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/16/bike-sharing-cities.html More and more U.S. and European cities are setting up bicycle sharing programs as a green transportation choice. Pedal Power: Urban Bike-Sharing Catching On Rob Lever, AFP earth 20071116110000 Fri, 16 Nov 2007 11:00:00 EST Getty Images | The unfinished survey reveals how much marine life remains undiscovered. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/16/marine-species-census.html The survey, which is to wrap up by 2010, highlights how much marine life remains undiscovered. Ocean Survey Yields More Than 5,000 New Species David Brooks, AFP earth 20071116093000 Fri, 16 Nov 2007 09:30:00 EST Kevin Raskoff/Census of Marine Life | Scientists gather to debate a strange electrified gas cloud billowing into space. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/15/ion-plume-africa.html Scientists gather to debate a strange phenomenon: an electrified gas cloud billowing into space. Mysterious Space Weather Tracked in Africa Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20071115170030 Thu, 15 Nov 2007 17:00:30 EST NASA | It could take months to clear 2,000 tons of oil from the Black Sea. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/14/russia-oil-spill.html It could take months to clear 2,000 tons of oil from the sensitive northeast corner of the Black Sea. Black Sea Oil Spill Ravages Wildlife AFP earth 20071114160030 Wed, 14 Nov 2007 16:00:30 EST Getty Images | Understanding Yellowstone's microbes could lead to new green technologies. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/14/yellowstone-virus.html Understanding Yellowstone's thriving populations of bacteria and viruses could lead to new green technologies. The Germs of Yellowstone: One Happy Family Associated Press earth 20071114120030 Wed, 14 Nov 2007 12:00:30 EST Getty Images | Carbon emissions far outweigh offsets in the United States, warn experts. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/13/climate-carbon-emissions.html The United States is falling far short of removing the majority of carbon emissions from the atmosphere, warn experts. Carbon Offsets Not Good Enough, Says Report Associated Press earth 20071113160030 Tue, 13 Nov 2007 16:00:30 EST Getty Images | The raging "Child of Krakatoa" is the latest in a string of eruptions. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/09/volcano-indonesia.html The raging "Child of Krakatoa" is the latest in a string of eruptions in the Southeast Asian island nation. Indonesian Volcano Roars to Life Chris Brummitt, Associated Press earth 20071109093030 Fri, 09 Nov 2007 09:30:30 EST AP Photo/Ed Wray | Research finds desalinated water lacks in some key agricultural elements. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/08/desalination-agriculture.html A desalination plant in Israel produces water that new research finds is lacking in some needed agricultural elements and too rich in others. Desalinated Water: Great to Drink, Bad for Crops Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20071108140000 Thu, 08 Nov 2007 14:00:00 EST AP Photo/Brad Doherty | The basin-shaped volcanic caldera is rising by 2.8 inches a year. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/08/yellowstone-supervolcano.html The basin-shaped volcanic caldera is rising by 2.8 inches a year, say geologists, but fear not: There are no signs of an impending eruption. Yellowstone Supervolcano Swelling Mysteriously Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20071108110030 Thu, 08 Nov 2007 11:00:30 EST AP Photo/Hugh Morton | Normally corn cobs are considered waste, but it could now become a fuel source. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/07/corn-cob-fuel.html Normally corn cobs are tossed as waste back onto fields, but now some want to use it as a fuel source. Tossed Corn Cobs Could Be Tomorrow's Fuel Dirk Lammers, Associated Press earth 20071107144500 Wed, 07 Nov 2007 14:45:00 EST AP Photo/Dirk Lammers | Acid rain has worn away at the ancient, 237-foot-tall statue. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/07/buddha-facelift.html Acid rain has worn away at the ancient, 237-foot-tall statue, located in southwestern China. Biggest Buddha to Get a Facelift AFP earth 20071107103000 Wed, 07 Nov 2007 10:30:00 EST Getty Images | Hummers and pickups are converted from gas guzzlers to green machines. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/01/automobiles-green.html An adapted hummer that runs on vegetable oil and a hydrogen-powered Ford pick up are among some of the latest environmentally-friendly choices. Mechanics Making Muscle Cars Green Tangi Quemener, AFP earth 20071101153000 Thu, 01 Nov 2007 15:30:00 EST GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP/Getty Images | Monkeys migrate away from their normal habitat and into Kenya's arid north. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/01/monkey-kenya-climate.html De Brazza monkeys are migrating away from their normal habitat and into Kenya's arid north, and scientists say climate change was the impetus. Roaming Monkeys Signal Climate Change in Africa Bogonko Bosire, AFP earth 20071101143030 Thu, 01 Nov 2007 14:30:30 EST AP Photo/Central Washington University| Wildfire emissions come with their own offset. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/11/01/wildfire-carbon-dioxide.html The California blaze released as much carbon dioxide into the atmosphere as weeks of car exhaust, but wildfire emissions come with their own offset. Wildfires Spew Carbon, Re-Growth Absorbs It Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20071101093030 Thu, 01 Nov 2007 09:30:30 EST NASA | Spiders that are drab by day, flash colors at night to bedazzle potential prey. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/31/flashy-spiders-prey.html Research finds that spiders that are drab by day, often display bright colors at night to bedazzle potential prey. Spiders Get Flashy at Night to Lure Prey Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20071031120000 Wed, 31 Oct 2007 12:00:00 EST AP Photo/Jack Smith | Bat cries may be spooky, but they serve a crucial purpose. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/29/bat-calls-behavior.html Bat cries may be spooky, but they serve a crucial purpose, say researchers studying the messages behind those mysterious chirps and trills. Bats Speak Language All Their Own Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20071029100030 Wed, 29 Oct 2007 10:00:30 EST AP Photo/Jack Smith | Thanks to zoo crews, many animals were saved during the California wildfires. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/26/animals-wildfires.html The San Diego Zoo lost two animals during the recent wildfires, but thanks to efforts of maintenance crews, many were saved. Amid Wildfires, Zoo Animal Rescues Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News earth 20071026110000 Fri, 26 Oct 2007 11:00:00 EST AP Photo/Jack Smith | Did Earth's most extreme volcanic eruption cause mass extinctions? http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/26/dinosaur-volcano.html It was Earth's most extreme volcanic eruption, and the climate change that followed, that killed the dinosaurs, argue geologists. Dinos Doomed by Mega-Eruption, Not Meteor? Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20071026100030 Fri, 26 Oct 2007 10:00:30 EST DCL | A nutrient difference in soil correlates to red and yellow hues of fall leaves. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/25/leaves-fall-color.html A study of the soils under trees in North Carolina show a distinct nutrient difference that correlates to the red and yellow hues of the leaves in fall. Red or Yellow Leaf Color Determined by Soil Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20071025110000 Thu, 25 Oct 2007 11:00:00 EST AP Photo/Hugh Morton | The aircraft scans land to help fire crews decide when to fight and when to flee. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/25/wildfire-drone.html The unmanned drone scans huge swaths of land to help firefighting crews decide when to fight and when to flee. NASA Aircraft Enlisted to Fight Wildfires Tracy Staedter, Discovery News earth 20071025100030 Thu, 25 Oct 2007 10:00:30 EST NASA | Underground water levels are likely drying up, according to reports. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/25/ground-water-drought.html Underground water levels are poorly monitored in the United States, but a report argues they're likely in sharp decline. U.S. Groundwater Drying Up Larry O'Hanlon, Discovery News earth 20071025100000 Thu, 25 Oct 2007 10:00:00 EST AP Photo/Eric Miller | Relief from fierce winds could help firefighters stall the spread of rogue California wildfires. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/24/california-fire-wind.html Relief from fierce winds could help firefighters stall the spread of rogue California wildfires. California Hopes for Slowing Winds Gillian Flaccus, Associated Press earth 20071024100030 Wed, 24 Oct 2007 10:00:30 EST NASA | The finding suggests today's accelerated warming could mean widespread extinctions. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/24/extinctions-warming.html When the world's seas warm, animals go extinct, concludes research that suggests today's accelerated warming could mean widespread extinctions. Hotter Weather Linked to More Extinctions Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20071024093000 Wed, 24 Oct 2007 09:30:00 EST AP Photo/Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, John O'Sullivan | Hundreds of thousands of people flee as fires blaze across California. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/23/california-wildfire.html Hundreds of thousands of people flee as fires blaze across California. California Wildfires Force Mass Evacuations Rob Woollard, AFP earth 20071023144530 Tue, 23 Oct 2007 14:45:30 EST DCL | Emissions were 35 percent higher in 2006 than in 1990, researchers report. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/23/carbon-dioxide-earth.html Emissions were 35 percent higher in 2006 than in 1990, researchers report. CO2 Rising Faster Than Thought Randolph Schmid, Associated Press earth 20071023133030 Tue, 23 Oct 2007 13:30:30 EST DCL | The fires have been spurred by desert winds and drought-parched land. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/22/wildfires-california.html The fires have been fanned by strong desert winds and spurred by drought-parched land. Wildfires Engulf Southern California Allison Hoffman and Gillian Flaccus, Associated Press earth 20071022140000 Mon, 22 Oct 2007 14:00:00 EST DCL | The finding could mean global warming will accelerate. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/22/oceans-carbon-dioxide.html The finding could mean the rate of global warming will accelerate since carbon dioxide absorption helps off-set the effects of burning fossil fuels. Oceans Losing Ability to Absorb CO2 AFP earth 20071022130000 Mon, 22 Oct 2007 13:00:00 EST DCL | Cores from a borehole in the San Andreas Fault help decode earthquake physics. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/16/sanandreas-rock-core.html Rock samples from a borehole in the San Andreas Fault offer clues to earthquake mysteries. Quake History in San Andreas Rocks Alica Chang, Associated Press earth 20071016225000 Tue, 16 Oct 2007 22:50:00 EST DCL | Forests with diverse species fight off infestations better. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/16/forest-diversity-tree-new.html New research finds forests with diverse species fight off infestations more effectively. Mixed Forests Are Healthier AFP earth 20071016192000 Tue, 16 Oct 2007 19:20:00 EST DCL | Groups say the regime is ignoring environmental laws to access materials cheaply. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/15/myanmar-environment.html Groups say the military regime in the country is ignoring environmental laws to access raw materials cheaply. Environmental Destruction Underway in Myanmar Michael Casey, Associated Press earth 20071015234000 Mon, 15 Oct 2007 23:40:00 EST DCL | The Nobel honors efforts to raise awareness of the threat of global warming. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/12/gore-nobel-environment.html The former vice president and the U.N. panel on climate change share the Nobel for raising awareness of the threat of global warming. Gore, U.N. Panel Share Peace Prize Doug Mellgrren and Matt Moore, Associated Press earth 20071012164000 Tue, 12 Oct 2007 16:40:00 EST DCL | Humidity has been on the rise and the only explanation is global warming. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/10/humid-weather-earth.html The amount of moisture in the air has been on the rise over the last three decades and the only explanation is global warming. That Sticky Weather? Blame Global Warming Seth Borenstein, Associated Press earth 20071010214000 Tue, 10 Oct 2007 21:40:00 EST DCL | Their plight has garnered little attention, but species of bumblebee are vanishing. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/09/bumblebee-insect.html Much attention has been focused on disappearing honeybees, but species of bumblebee are also vanishing. Like Honeybees, Bumblebees Vanishing AFP earth 20071009111500 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 11:15:00 EST DCL | The protective layer shrank over the pole, but less less than last year's record loss. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/03/ozone-hole-pollution.html The protective layer shrank, but the thinning over the pole was less than last year's record loss. Antarctic Ozone Hole Shrinks 30 Percent AFP earth 20071003231500 Wed, 03 Oct 2007 23:15:00 EST DCL | Data from cave formations reveal wet weather pushed early humans out of Africa. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/10/01/africa-exodus-human.html Data from cave formations reveal it was climate, specifically wet weather, that provided the impetus for early humans to leave Africa. Wet Weather Nudged Human Africa Exodus Associated Press earth 20071001094500 Mon, 01 Oct 2007 09:45:00 EST DCL | A new study calls into question the timeline of oxygen's appearance in Earth's atmosphere. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/09/27/oxygen-earth-geology.html A new study calls into question the timeline of oxygen's appearance in Earth's atmosphere. Antarctic Ozone Hole Shrinks 30 Percent Randolph E. Schmid, Associated Press earth 20070927165000 Thu, 27 Sep 2007 16:50:00 EST DCL | The Earth's atmosphere is lost at a far higher rate than previously thought. http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/06/02/solar-wind-atmosphere.html It is well known that the solar wind erodes planetary atmospheres. However, a new study suggests the Earth's atmosphere is being lost at a far higher rate than both Mars and Venus, even though Earth has a stronger magnetic field. Earth Losing Atmosphere Faster than Venus, Mars Irene Klotz, Discovery News earth 20070602124500 Tue, 02 Jun 2007 12:45:00 EST NASA |