Carl Sagan explores the life and legacy of the ancient Greek polymath Eratosthenes, who, in the 3rd century BCE, not only understood Earth to be spherical, but was able to calculate its circumference with remarkable accuracy. In detailing Eratosthenes’ ingenious methods, Sagan provides a fascinating science history lesson that doubles as a tribute to the remarkable ingenuity of ancient thinkers, who were able to uncover extraordinary truths with the simplest of tools.
Australian scientists have just discovered a new species of arachnid, dubbed the giant trapdoor spider, in Queensland. It’s huge, bright red, and it can live for up to two decades.
Before you panic, we should note that trapdoor spiders aren’t considered a threat to humans. While they are venomous, their bites aren’t known to have any lasting effect on people, reports the BBC. Besides, hikers rarely encounter them; the spiders are nocturnal and spend most of their lives underground. And while they’re big for trapdoor spiders, they’re not as massive as, say, tarantulas or giant desert scorpions.
Female giant trapdoor spiders can grow up to two inches long. That’s about twice the size of other trapdoor spiders. Male trapdoor spiders are slightly smaller.
More than 260 fragments of animal bones have been found at the monument.
Artnet News, March 29, 2023.
CRISPR Is The Future.
Welcome to the future!
It is the year 2050, and the world is facing a crisis. Climate change has caused widespread devastation, and the planet’s resources are dwindling. Famine and disease are rampant, and humanity is on the brink of collapse. But amidst the chaos, a new hope emerges.
A recent study published in the journal Algal Research summarized the existing knowledge on bioactive compounds in green seaweeds and Ulva spp., focusing on its application as a future superfood.
Seaweeds are macroalgae, colonizing brackish water bodies and seas, and are classified into brown, green, and red algae. Research suggests that seaweeds are enriched with bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential. Seaweeds are also good sources of nutrients, antioxidants, and dietary fiber and have a low caloric value.
Ulva lactuca, a green alga, is a source of carotenoids, ulvan (a polysaccharide), proteins, minerals, vitamin C, and dietary fibers. In the present study, the authors discussed the chemistry and applications of bioactive compounds of green seaweeds, mainly focusing on U. lactuca and emphasizing its application as a superfood.
