Deep-sea corals are home to previously unknown bacteria with extremely small genomes
Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI)
Published: 4 November 2024
Researchers discovered two new bacterial symbionts in deep-sea corals that survive with ultra-small genomes and no carbohydrate metabolism, possibly using host-provided arginine. The microbes may help coral immunity or nutrient cycling.
Keywords: Gulf of Mexico, coral microbiome, coral-bacteria relationship, Oceanoplasmataceae
First amber find on the Antarctic continent
Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI)
Published: 12 November 2024
Scientists discovered the world’s southernmost amber in Antarctica, revealing that resin-producing trees thrived there 90 million years ago. The amber offers new clues about ancient forest ecosystems and climate in the mid-Cretaceous.
Keywords: Antarctica, amber, mid-Cretaceous, ancient forest, resin-producing trees, climate history, Pine Island
Turning point in global fossil CO2 emissions has not yet been reached
Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI)
Published: 13 November 2024
Despite growth in clean energy, global CO₂ emissions are projected to rise to 41.6 Gt in 2024, driven by fossil fuel use. Ocean and land sinks absorb less CO₂ due to warming. The carbon budget for 1.5°C may be depleted by decade's end.
Keywords: CO₂ emissions, fossil fuels, Global Carbon Project, carbon sinks, ocean warming, deforestation
