Euclid Unveils the Oldest Quasar Ever Discovered in History

Posted on July 9, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers utilizing the ESA’s Euclid Space Telescope have made a groundbreaking discovery of 31 ancient quasars dating back to when the universe was only 670 million to 800 million years old. Among these celestial objects, EUCL J172902.75+641018.1 has set a remarkable record as the most distant quasar ever identified.

This collage showcases 15 of the 31 newly discovered quasars by ESA’s Euclid Space Telescope. EUCL J172902.75+641018.1 and EUCL J125308.55+705432.3 are featured in the first row, first and second from the left, respectively. Image credit: ESA / Euclid / Euclid Consortium / NASA / Euclid Science Ground Segment / Antoine Basset, CNES.

Quasars are among the universe’s brightest and most energetic entities, fueled by supermassive black holes at the centers of galaxies.

Dr. Damin Yang, an astronomer from Leiden University, noted, “These early quasars trace back to the universe’s infancy. By locating and examining them, we can delve deeper into one of astrophysics’ greatest mysteries: how these colossal systems formed and evolved so rapidly.”

He further stated, “Previously known early quasars were merely the tip of the iceberg—rare, luminous outliers that were easier to detect.”

“We hadn’t identified a sufficient number of quasars from this early epoch to study them collectively,” Dr. Yang explained.

The recent findings by Euclid have changed the narrative, capturing a significant portion of the ancient quasar population, beyond just the bright exceptions.

This discovery introduces 12 new quasars with redshifts greater than 7, corresponding to the universe’s first 770 million years.

The oldest quasars from this batch, EUCL J172902.75+641018.1 and EUCL J125308.55+705432.3, feature redshifts of 7.77 and 7.69, respectively, establishing new records for the oldest known quasars.

Both quasars are located over 13 billion light-years away and appeared in the universe’s first 670 million years.

ESA researcher Dr. Antonio La Marca commented, “This finding more than doubles our knowledge of extremely ancient quasars.”

“It took astronomers over a decade to discover the initial 10 quasars with redshifts above 7, but Euclid has already surpassed that within a year.”

“The Euclid research team is conducting the first true examination of the quasar population from the universe’s early days.”

This represents a significant milestone toward gaining a more fundamental understanding of these enigmatic objects.

For more in-depth information, a research paper detailing the discovery has been published in this week’s edition of Astronomy and Astrophysics.

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D. Yang et al. 2026. Euclid: 31 new quasars discovered with 6.6 < z < 7.8. A&A 711, A104; doi: 10.1051/0004-6361/202658883

Source: www.sci.news

Unveiling History: 3,000 Artifacts from Stone Age to WWII Discovered by Archaeologists in Dutch Valley

Posted on July 7, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Over 3,000 archaeological artifacts, spanning from the Stone Age to World War II, have been unearthed in the Nieuwe Drostendiep river valley in the Netherlands. This discovery emphasizes the historical significance of waterways in attracting human activity.

Among these artifacts, 600 items of exceptional importance highlight the valley’s role as a hub for trade, sustenance, and even spiritual practices, according to experts.

Currently, environmental restoration initiatives are taking place in the Nieuwe Drostendiep river valley between Slín and Oosterhesselen, located in the northern Drenthe region. During these efforts, archaeologists meticulously examined the upper soil layers, leading to the discovery of numerous historic items such as Stone Age tools, Bronze Age artifacts, and jewelry dating from 200 BC to the early Middle Ages.

Notable finds include a gold ring from the 3rd or 4th century AD and a fibular pin from the 10th or 11th century AD, used historically to fasten clothing. Objects from more recent histories, including artifacts from the Eighty Years’ War (1568-1648) and World War II, were also uncovered.

All discoveries were made around the New Drostendiep valley – Credit: Getty

The research team is astounded by the sheer number and diversity of artifacts, many of which are in excellent condition. These items were found in relatively undisturbed soil layers, ensuring their preservation.

Professor David Bridgeland from Durham University, who researches human evolution and environmental interaction, noted that: “Rivers supplied essential resources like water and food, attracting both predators and livestock, while also preserving historical evidence.”

Yvonne Turenhout, an executive member overseeing the project, expressed pride in the rich history and stunning landscapes of Drenthe province. She stated that these extraordinary discoveries further highlight the region’s significance.

The artifacts are currently not open for public viewing as researchers are still cleaning, cataloging, and studying them. Officials are contemplating an exhibition and exploring ways to provide digital access to parts of the collection.

Read more:

The featured image of the ring is for illustrative purposes only and was not found in the Nieuwe Drostendiep.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

New Subspecies of European Leopard Discovered in Fossils Unearthed from German Quarry

Posted on July 1, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Panthera pardus burgtonnae, a newly discovered leopard subspecies, once inhabited Europe during the Eemian interglacial period. This ancient leopard had a much more robust structure compared to the modern leopard.

Panthera pardus pardus). Image credit: Thomas Fuhrmann / CC BY-SA 4.0.” width=”580″ height=”870″ srcset=”https://cdn.sci.news/images/2026/06/image_14883-African-Leopard.jpg 580w, https://cdn.sci.news/images/2026/06/image_14883-African-Leopard-200×300.jpg 200w” sizes=”(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px”/>

Panthera pardus burgtonnae had similar body length to the modern African leopard (Panthera pardus pardus) but exhibited a stockier build. Image credit: Thomas Fuhrmann / CC BY-SA 4.0.

The species Panthera pardus burgtonnae thrived in what is now Germany during the Eemian Interglacial, a warm period lasting from approximately 130,000 to 115,000 years ago that preceded the last ice age.

The description of this subspecies is derived from fossil fragments, including parts of the lower jaw, upper cartilage teeth, and limb bones.

The original specimen was unearthed in 1993 by a private collector from the Burgtonna travertine deposits, a historically rich fossil site.

“The discovery of large mammal fossils from the Burgtonna Travertine in Thuringia, Germany, initiates our Quaternary paleontological research in Europe,” stated German paleontologists Helmut Hemmer of Mainz and Ralph Dietrich Kaalke of the Senckenberg Institute for Quaternary Paleontology.

“In 1696, Wilhelm Ernst Tenzel published one of the earliest scientific interpretations of Pleistocene elephant remains, establishing Pleistocene research as a key scientific focus.”

“Numerous fossils have been recovered from the Burgtonna limestone, with significant studies and comprehensive presentations devoted to these findings until felid species such as Panthera leo subspecies (see Spelea) and Felis sylvestris came into focus.”

“The explosion in travertine quarrying in Burgtonna during the early 1990s led to the discovery of new large fossil outcrops, allowing private collector Andreas Lindner to recover approximately 2,500 vertebrate fossils over the years.”

In 1993, Lindner discovered fossils of the new leopard subspecies in the southernmost area of the Bergtonna South Pits.

Paleontologists identified the Bergtonna specimen as a slender-jawed, well-built female leopard with minimal tooth wear, indicating it was relatively young.

This leopard weighed approximately 35-40 kg, with a head height around 107-112 cm.

The authors propose that this leopard is part of a fossil group previously identified in Mosbach and Taubach, Germany, showcasing unique dental features that differentiate it from the more widely recognized leopards of the Last Ice Age in Europe.

The research team has reclassified these later leopards under the name Panthera pardus antiqua.

The findings reveal that Panthera pardus burgtonnae was first documented in central Europe during the late Middle Pleistocene cooling period, becoming widespread from central Europe to the Apennine Peninsula during the early Late Pleistocene, prior to the last Ice Age (MIS 2).

“The Weichselian glaciers, particularly in central and southern Europe, resulted in a landscape dominated by ice, marking the era of Panthera pardus antiqua,” researchers elaborated.

European leopards from both the Late Middle Pleistocene and Late Pleistocene were considerably large, boasting a high body mass index and robust physiques akin to jaguars, contrasting sharply with today’s representatives from Africa and Asia.

The comprehensive research findings have been published in the journal Paleobiodiversity and Paleoenvironment.

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H. Hemmer & R.-D. Kaalke. Panthera pardus burgtonnae Subspecies November (Mammalia, Carnivora, Felidae) From Eemian of Burgtonna (Thuringia, Germany) – A new perspective on the late Pleistocene European leopard. Paleobio Paleoembu, published online June 13, 2026. doi: 10.1007/s12549-026-00702-8

Source: www.sci.news

Unveiling the Mysterious Substances Found on Titan and Pluto: What Scientists Discovered

Posted on June 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Titan Captured by the Cassini Spacecraft in 2004

NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute

Researchers have uncovered a mysterious substance on the surfaces of both Pluto and Saturn’s moon Titan, but its identity remains elusive.

Titan’s dense atmosphere poses significant challenges in surface exploration. Identifying this enigmatic compound is crucial for understanding the moon’s intricate chemistry. Titan stands out as a prime candidate in the solar system for the search for extraterrestrial life, making the understanding of its chemical structure vital.

Astronomers utilize spectroscopy—an essential tool that analyzes the light wavelengths absorbed, reflected, and emitted by various chemicals—to study the organization of distant celestial bodies.

Bruno Besar and researchers at the Paris Observatory made significant findings using data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). They discovered that a specific range of light wavelengths was being absorbed by a substance on Titan’s surface, which was also observed on Pluto, albeit across a broader spectrum.

At first glance, Titan and Pluto appear vastly different. Titan experiences much warmer temperatures, has a liquid ocean on its surface, and possesses a denser atmosphere compared to Pluto’s. However, the atmospheric chemistry reveals similarities, as “Both atmospheres predominantly consist of nitrogen and methane, leading to chemical reactions that generate haze particles that settle as snow,” explained Besar. This process is likely responsible for the formation of the unidentified compounds.

The researchers contrasted the spectral signatures detected on these two worlds with numerous spectra from both astronomical observations and lab experiments representing known compounds in Titan’s atmosphere, as well as forms of ice that may exist on both surfaces. None were found to match the mysterious signature.

Nevertheless, they identified several close candidates that, if slightly modified or combined with other molecules, could potentially explain the unknown compound. Notably, there are observable differences in the material’s characteristics between Pluto and Titan, suggesting variations in particle size as well. “There are several possibilities, but they aren’t straightforward compounds,” Besar indicated. “Whatever it is, it would be groundbreaking.”

To further investigate this intriguing discovery, a comprehensive three-pronged strategy is in place. First, researchers have acquired additional data from JWST, which may aid in pinpointing the distribution of materials on Titan’s surface. Geological features could offer valuable insights. Second, laboratory experiments are being conducted to replicate the spectral signature and identify its components. Finally, NASA’s Dragonfly spacecraft, slated for launch in 2028 and landing on Titan in 2034, holds the potential for groundbreaking discoveries.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Newly Discovered Walking Shark Species Found Off Papua New Guinea Coast

Posted on June 16, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Marine biologists have recently discovered a new species of walking shark, Hemiscyllium dudgeonae, enriching the remarkable family of reef-dwelling sharks that utilize their four fins to “walk” along the ocean floor. This exciting find emerged from the waters of eastern Papua New Guinea.

Hemiscyllium dudgeonae, male paratype from Nubwageta, Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea. Image credit: MV Erdmann.

These walking sharks belong to a group of 10 similar species of carpet sharks, each identifiable by unique color patterns, genetic markers, and localized distributions.

The Hemiscyllium genus is endemic to Australia and the islands of New Guinea, a region renowned for its rich diversity in carpet shark species shaped by intricate tectonic and sea-level changes.

Typically small and nocturnal, walking sharks reach lengths of 70-80 cm, with the largest individuals documented at 107 cm.

These species prefer shallow coastal areas, such as coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves, generally inhabiting depths of less than 10 meters, though they can be found as deep as 50 meters.

Due to their limited mobility and benthic lifestyles, the home ranges of walking sharks are constrained, usually spanning just a few hundred square meters to a few square kilometers.

Additionally, these sharks are oviparous, laying small, oval-shaped egg cases on the ocean floor, restricting their dispersal abilities.

Although research has expanded our understanding of walking shark distributions over the past two decades, the endemic species of eastern Papua New Guinea still require further study.

In a groundbreaking study, Dr. Christine Dudgeon and her team from the University of the Sunshine Coast explored the distribution of walking sharks in eastern Papua New Guinea.

“New species of sharks are a rare find, and this is certainly the first shark named in my honor,” remarked Dr. Dudgeon.

The newly identified Hemiscyllium dudgeonae was discovered during a survey that took place from 2023 to 2025 in Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea.

This species, commonly referred to as the Dudgeon Epaulette Shark, features a unique coloration characterized by brown freckles and white spots throughout its body, alongside a distinctive eye-like marking on the back of its head.

Genetic analysis indicates that this new species is closely related to Hemiscyllium micheli.

Researchers expressed concern for Hemiscyllium dudgeonae, noting its limited range makes it particularly vulnerable.

“We anticipate that the IUCN Red List will classify this species as vulnerable or critically endangered,” said Jess Blakeway, a PhD student at the University of the Sunshine Coast.

The study has also updated the known distributions of Hemiscyllium micheli and another walking shark species from Papua New Guinea, Hemiscyllium hallstromi.

“Our research has altered our understanding of walking shark habitats,” Blakeway stated. “It was previously believed that each species occupied distinct habitats separated by barriers, but we now know they have overlapping distributions in eastern Papua New Guinea.”

This new species marks the 10th addition to the genus of Epaulette sharks found in Papua New Guinea.

Currently, there are five endangered species listed under the IUCN Red List, which applies to only 3% of all sharks.

The team’s findings are detailed in a paper published on June 15th in the Marine Science Foundation Journal.

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J.-A. Blakeway et al. 2026. Distribution and description of new species of Walking Shark (Hemiscylliidae: Hemiscyllium) in Papua New Guinea. Marine Science Foundation Journal 46: 71-110; doi: 10.5281/zenodo.20575429

Source: www.sci.news

Newly Discovered Walking Shark Species in Papua New Guinea: A Groundbreaking Scientific Find

Posted on June 16, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Newly Confirmed Walking Shark *Hemiscyllium dudgeonae*

MV Erdmann

Hemiscyllium dudgeonae - Newly identified walking shark — Newly Confirmed Walking Shark *Hemiscyllium dudgeonae*

MV Erdmann

A remarkable new species of walking shark has been discovered off the coast of Papua New Guinea, capable of traversing coral reefs with most of its body out of the water.

Local fishermen have long observed this unique fish, known as Kadededewa, which translates to “dog shark” or “lazy shark.”

This newly classified shark belongs to the Hemiscyllium genus, commonly referred to as walking sharks or epaulette sharks. These fascinating sea creatures navigate by using their pectoral fins like legs and are typically found in Australia and New Guinea.

The new species has been named Hemiscyllium dudgeonae, in honor of Christine Dudgeon, a professor at the University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, who was part of the team that formally identified this species.

Dudgeon first encountered this walking shark in March 2025, while swimming in a seagrass meadow in Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea, only a meter deep.

Initially searching for another species, she unexpectedly stumbled upon the shark: “It was very slow, and after spending some time in the water, I noticed it swimming near the bottom,” she recalled.

Using a flashlight to illuminate the shark, which measured approximately three-quarters of a meter, caused it to freeze in a defensive response. Dudgeon then carefully used a technique called “flip and tuck” to secure the shark for study.

Christine Dudgeon with *Hemiscyllium dudgeonae*

Nesha Ichida

Once securely captured, Dudgeon passed the shark to her colleague, Jess Blakeway, who was stationed on a nearby drifting boat.

Blakeway noted the distinct color pattern immediately, which differed from previously studied species: “It was evident that this shark was unique compared to other documented species,” she stated.

While the other nine known species of walking sharks predominantly feed on invertebrates from the ocean floor, they share similarities in size and appearance. Their skin patterns are their most distinguishing feature.

The species researchers anticipated discovering displayed more leopard-like markings; however, Hemiscilium dudgeonae exhibits a unique arrangement reminiscent of Braille or Morse code, according to Blakeway.

Over the following days, researchers captured 11 additional specimens from the surrounding areas, of which three were retained for detailed study and nine released after sampling.

This species is thought to reside exclusively within the coral reefs of Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea.

Nesha Ichida

In the lab, DNA testing confirmed that this new shark species is genetically distinctive from its relatives.

However, the walking sharks of Papua New Guinea face critical threats from habitat destruction, driven by coastal development, expanding palm oil plantations, and coral bleaching.

Researchers believe that Hemiscyllium dudgeonae may only inhabit the Milne Bay area and could be the most endangered species within this group.

“This species contributes to the incredible biodiversity of Papua New Guinea, but urgent conservation measures are necessary to prevent local extinction,” Blakeway urged.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Newly Discovered Ancient Beardog Species Unearthed in Spain

Posted on June 12, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have discovered a new species of ceratozoa, commonly known as beardogs, from two well-preserved specimens found at a fossil-rich site in the Valles Penedes Basin near Barcelona, Spain.

Pardoshion Moyasolai. Image credit: Jesus Gamarra.

The species has been named Pardoshion Moyasolai. It thrived during the mid-Miocene epoch, approximately 15.9 million years ago, in a warm, forested environment with shallow lakes.

This carnivorous mammal belongs to the extinct family Amphicyonidae, often referred to as bear dogs due to their unique blend of traits from modern bears and dogs.

“The Lycoptidae family played a significant role in the carnivore population across North America and Eurasia throughout much of the Cenozoic Era,” explained Dr. Jorge Morales from the CSIC National Science Museum and his colleagues.

“In Africa, the earliest evidence of horned phycyonids dates back to the early Miocene, persisting until the late Miocene, marking the last known occurrence of this group.”

Dr. Morales added, “Recent studies suggest that North America may have been the origin of this family, supported by a more complete and diverse Paleogene record of horned phycyonids in North America compared to Western Europe or Asia.”

The two specimens of Pardoshion Moyasolai were excavated from the Els Casots site in the Valles Penedes Basin, Spain.

The fossils include a well-preserved skull with most teeth intact and an isolated lower molar discovered separately.

Currently, both specimens are housed at the Miquel Crusafont Catalan Institute of Palaeontology in Sabadell, Spain.

Researchers noted that Pardoshion Moyasolai can be identified by the distinct proportions of its molars. Notably, the upper second molars were wider than the upper first molars, and the upper third molars were exceptionally large and developed.

These features are unique, as they have not been observed in any other known members of this genus, including Pardochyon.

To pinpoint the classification of Pardoshion Moyasolai, Dr. Morales and his team compared its teeth to those of related species from Europe and North America.

The results indicate that this new species represents one of the earliest divergences within the genus Pardochyon, making it one of the most primitive known members of the group.

The findings also suggest that the classification of Cyneros does not reflect a natural grouping, as it is paraphyletic, meaning its members do not share a single common ancestor specific to that group.

Three species currently classified under North America’s Cyneros present a distinctive challenge. Analysis reveals that Pardochyon species are more diverse than their European Cyneros counterparts, but their classifications are still unresolved.

Scientists propose that these North American species may have evolved independently from their European relatives, likely descending from Asian ancestors or unique North American lineages.

“Phylogenetic analysis indicates that while Cyneros is paraphyletic, it does support the monophyly of Pardochyon, with the new species identified as its most basal member,” the authors noted.

“This underscores the long-distance evolutionary ties between species, with European Cyneros (e.g., Kineros rugocidens and Kineros remanensis) and Pardochyon supporting their classification as distinct genera.”

This significant discovery is detailed in a recent article published in the Mammal Evolution Journal.

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J. Morales et al.. 2026. Discovery of a new species Pardochyon (Carnivora: Amphicyonidae) from the early Miocene of Els Casots, Valles Penedes Basin, Barcelona, Spain. J. Mammal. Evol 33, 29; doi: 10.1007/s10914-026-09814-6

Source: www.sci.news

New Horned Turtle Species Discovered in Fossil Find in Patagonia

Posted on June 10, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have discovered a new species of Maioraniformes turtle, named Patagoniaemys aeschyli, that inhabited northern Patagonia, Argentina, during the Maastrichtian era, just before the catastrophic asteroid impact that led to the extinction of non-avian dinosaurs.

Artist’s impression of Patagoniaemys aeschyli. Image credit: Nawel Vazquez / Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales ‘Bernardino Rivadavia’ / CONICET.

The recently identified turtle species thrived in what is now Patagonia during the Maastrichtian period of the Late Cretaceous, roughly 72 to 67 million years ago.

Patagoniaemys aeschyli is part of a lineage that encompasses some of the rarest turtles ever documented.

These Maioraniformes are highlighted for their heavily armored bodies and, in certain species, distinctive horned skulls.

“Maioraniformes encompass a group of turtles, including the well-known horned species like Nicolamia argentina from Patagonia and Meiolania platypus from Australia,” explained lead author Dr. Federico Agnolin, a paleontologist associated with Bernardino Rivadavia Museum of Natural Sciences, Maimonides University, and CONICET.

“These turtles are recognized from the Lower Cretaceous to the Pleistocene across southern continents, including South America, Australia, and New Caledonia.”

The fossilized remains of Patagoniaemys aeschyli were excavated from the Los Alamitos Formation in Río Negro, Argentina.

The specimen includes parts of a skull, shell fragments, vertebrae, and a limb bone, making it one of the most significant discoveries of meioraniids in the region.

Paleontologists estimate that the carapace of Patagoniaemys aeschyli measured around 80 centimeters (approximately 2.6 feet) in length.

Unlike its later relatives, its shell was wide and relatively low, contrasting with the domed shells often observed in other turtle species.

“The shell is relatively robust at the base of the marginal plates, featuring a series of tough ridges, particularly towards the rear,” noted the researchers.

“The exterior surface of the shell is characterized by small holes and grooves.”

In addition to identifying this new species, the scientists examined how turtles managed to survive during the end-Cretaceous mass extinction event, which occurred 66 million years ago.

The study of Patagonia’s fossil diversity revealed that some turtle lineages endured the transition from the Cretaceous to the Paleogene periods.

The discovery of Patagoniaemys aeschyli confirmed the presence of at least two Maioraniformes in the latest Cretaceous period of southern South America.

“The remarkable taxonomic continuity between Maastrichtian and Danian populations suggests that the end-Cretaceous extinction event did not significantly impact Patagonian turtles, indicating lineage persistence and minimal turnover among southern Chelonians,” concluded the scientists.

A detailed description of this discovery was published in the journal Acta Paleontologica Polonica on March 26, 2026. Read the paper here.

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Federico L. Agnolin et al. 2026. A new species of Maioraniformes turtle from the Maastrichtian region of northern Patagonia, Argentina. Acta Paleontologica Polonica 71 (1): 173-184; doi: 10.4202/app.01268.2025

Source: www.sci.news

Milky Way’s Missing Black Hole Wind Discovered by Astronomers: Key Findings Revealed

Posted on June 9, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

After five decades of extensive research, astronomers have discovered compelling evidence that Sagittarius A*, the supermassive black hole with 4.3 million solar masses at the heart of the Milky Way galaxy, is emitting hot cosmic winds. These winds are shaping a vast cavity close to the galaxy’s center.

This image illustrates the winds emanating from Sagittarius A*. The central white dot marks a supermassive black hole. The orange data from ALMA indicates the position of cold carbon monoxide gas, while the blue data from Chandra shows hot, X-ray-emitting gas. The large conical cavity represents a region devoid of cold gas with intense hot gas emissions. Image credits: NASA / CXC / UMass / Wang et al. / ALMA / ESO / National Astronomical Observatory of Japan / NRAO / Longmore et al. / Miniti et al.

Theoretical physics suggests that as black holes devour matter, they generate winds or jets. Even minimal amounts of gas falling into a black hole can produce enough energy to expel matter outward.

Until recent observations, the winds from Sagittarius A*, our galaxy’s central black hole, had never been distinctly identified.

Astronomers utilized years of detailed observations from the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA) to analyze the cold gas within several light-years of the black hole.

By eliminating the bright radio emissions from the black hole, researchers unveiled a vast cone-shaped void in the cold gas, directly aligned with the black hole. This phenomenon serves as clear evidence of substantial, hot winds expelled from Sagittarius A*.

“Unless a black hole exists in a complete vacuum, some form of wind should be present,” stated Dr. Mark Gorsky, an astronomer at Northwestern University.

“However, there is no absolute vacuum in space.”

“These observations represent the first time we can distinctly identify wind signatures,” Dr. Gorsky added.

“As we analyzed the data, we realized, ‘This is it. This is what scientists have been searching for over the past 50 years.’”

Over five years, Dr. Gorski and colleague Dr. Lena Murchikova mapped radiation from carbon monoxide, a key indicator of cold molecular gases, within approximately 1 parsec (or 3 light-years) of Sagittarius A*.

The careful modeling and subtraction of the black hole’s rapidly varying radio emissions allowed researchers to discern faint and complex structures in the surrounding gas.

“For the first time, we’ve confirmed that a black hole is being fed molecular gas very close to it,” explained Dr. Murchikova from Northwestern University.

“The winds are moderate, and their direction may fluctuate over time.”

“This discovery indicates that our black hole is not an isolated phenomenon, nor is our position in the universe unique.”

Data from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory confirmed the presence of hot gas in the same vicinity, verifying that this outflow was indeed from a black hole and not from a neighboring star.

“Exceptional claims necessitate exceptional evidence,” Dr. Gorski noted.

“We were cautious to ensure we weren’t misinterpreting an image artifact, and the X-ray images from Chandra corroborated our findings. The molecular signatures aligned perfectly.”

The ALMA map boasts approximately 100 times greater depth and 80 times sharper resolution than previous carbon monoxide images in the region, making it the most sensitive and highest-resolution map of cold gas surrounding Sagittarius A* to date.

Researchers estimate that these winds have been active for at least 20,000 years, though they are relatively calm in comparison to the dramatic jets observed in other galaxies.

“Most galaxies remain relatively dormant throughout their lifetimes,” Dr. Murchikova commented.

“However, we only observe them during these explosive episodes.”

“While it’s captivating to study black holes during these outburst phases, they represent a brief segment of their overall existence.”

“Sagittarius A* has finally opened a window into the life of this otherwise silent black hole.”

The team’s findings will be published in the Astrophysical Journal Letters.

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Mark D. Gorski and Lena Murchikova. 2026. Discovery of active winds from the central black hole of the Milky Way Galaxy. APJL 1004, L7; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/ae63cf

Source: www.sci.news

New Bird Species Discovered by Ornithologist on Remote Indonesian Island

Posted on June 9, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A recently discovered songbird from the Babar Islands in Indonesia’s Banda Sea has been recognized as a new species. This small bird, named the Merry Fantail (Lipidula laguceria), stands out due to its unique song, which differentiates it from its close relatives. Previously, it was considered the same as the cinnamon giant fantail (Rhipidura fuscorufa), located approximately 135 km (84 mi) east of the Tanimbar Islands.

Merry Fantail (Lipidula laguceria) November 2022. Image credit: James A. Eaton.

Known as a small insectivorous songbird from the Rhipidura fuscorufa family, these birds are native to the Lingidae.

This species measures approximately 18 cm (7 inches) in length, recognized for its cinnamon tail and underparts, as well as its characteristic tail-spreading behavior typical of fantails.

The Rhipidura fuscorufa was first identified in 1883 on the Tanimbar Islands. However, specimens from the Babar group, about 80 miles west, were later examined and previously considered to belong to the same species, a view that persisted for over 120 years.

“Rhipidura fuscorufa is endemic to Indonesia and resides on Tanimbar Island and the Babar Island Group,” said Dr. James Eaton from Bird Tours Asia Limited and Dr. Alex Berryman from BirdLife International.

“Initially described in 1883 based on specimens from the Tanimbar Islands, 15 years later, Rhipidura fuscorufa specimens collected from Babar Island were also examined. Scientists concluded in 1901 that the Babar specimens were consistent with those from the Tanimbar Islands.

For approximately 120 years, the common taxonomic classification was Rhipidura fuscorufa as a monotypic species.

Dr. Eaton first noticed differences in vocalizations between the Babar and Tanimbar populations during a visit in 2011, suggesting the presence of an as-yet undetected species.

To confirm this, authors analyzed 19 specimens at the American Museum of Natural History in New York and the Tring Museum of Natural History in the UK, along with 18 audio recordings from both island groups.

The researchers observed subtle physical differences; Babar birds exhibited darker upper bodies and less pronounced cinnamon underparts compared to Tanimbar birds, while wing, tail, beak, and leg measurements showed no significant variation.

However, the song of the two Rhipidura fuscorufa populations varied considerably.

“The calls of the Babar birds typically consist of single whistles that increase in pitch, whereas Tanimbar calls include varying lengths of whistles for a more rhythmic effect,” they stated. “Though the lengths of strophes are similar, Tanimbar songs feature more notes and shorter intervals between them.”

Cinnamon Giant Fantail (Rhipidura fuscorufa) November 2022. Image credit: James A. Eaton.

Over several years, scientists conducted 132 reproduction experiments during visits to Babar and Tanimbar islands.

Both populations responded to their respective recordings but ignored the songs from the other islands. The study revealed that no Babar birds responded to Tanimbar songs, and vice versa.

“Despite being currently classified as monotypic, our research displays distinct differences between the Tanimbar and Babar populations of Rhipidura fuscorufa,” noted the researchers.

“Morphologically, the two populations have subtle differences in coloration, while the vocalizations are markedly distinct, providing strong evidence that these vocal differences act as a reproductive barrier.”

“Based on this, we propose that Rhipidura fuscorufa populations in the Babar Islands should be taxonomically separated from those in the Tanimbar Islands.”

“While we lack an established name for the Babar population, we describe it as Lipidula laguceria.”

Both the newly identified Lipidula laguceria and its relative Rhipidura fuscorufa are currently listed as Near Threatened under conservation standards, as they adapt well to degraded habitats rather than dense forests.

“Rhipidura fuscorufa is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List,” the scientists stated.

“Following this classification, both Rhipidura fuscorufa and Lipidula laguceria now have a more restricted range, fulfilling criteria for potential threat listings under IUCN Red List criteria B1 and B2.”

“However, both species demonstrate resilience to habitat degradation and are often found in modified habitats, open areas, and even scrubland with tall mango trees.”

“Indeed, both fantail species appear to prefer highly altered habitats over closed-canopy forests.” Therefore, neither species meets the criteria for being listed as B1 or B2 and should continue to be classified as Near Threatened.”

The discovery of Lipidula laguceria is detailed in a research paper published this month in the British Ornithologists Club Newsletter.

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James A. Eaton and Alex J. Berryman. 2026. A mysterious new species of fantail from the Babar Islands, Maluku Province, Indonesia. British Ornithologists Club Newsletter 146 (2): 203-215; doi: 10.25226/bboc.v146i2.2026.a6

Source: www.sci.news

New Microraptorine Dinosaur Species Discovered in China: A Breakthrough in Paleontology

Posted on June 5, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Jiang Changmensis is the pioneering non-avian dinosaur discovered at a paleontological site featuring over 100 early Cretaceous bird specimens.

Jiang Changmensis (Left) launched an early attack on Gansus yumenensis (Right) in the Changma Basin, now in northwestern China, around 120 million years ago. Image credit: Lewis LaRosa / Jão Canola.

Jiang Changmensis roamed what is now northwestern China approximately 124 to 120 million years ago during the Early Cretaceous period.

This species belongs to the Microraptoridae, a subgroup of small-winged dromaeosaur dinosaurs.

Members of this lineage include the Microraptor, a four-winged dinosaur believed to be capable of gliding and possibly powered flight.

Dr. Jingmai O’Connor, a paleontologist at the Field Museum of Natural History and the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, stated, “Jiang Changmensis is one of the largest Microraptor specimens ever discovered.”

“The humerus bone fragment we possess measures approximately 10 centimeters (4 inches) in length, suggesting the dinosaur likely had a wingspan of about 4 feet, roughly the size of a barn owl.”

“We believe Jiang Changmensis, like other Microraptors, had long feathers on both its arms and legs, giving it four ‘wings’ for gliding.” Dr. O’Connor added that, while other Microraptors were likely unable to achieve true powered flight, they could probably glide like flying squirrels.

The skeletal remains of Jiang Changmensis were found in the Xiagou Formation, uncovered near Changma Village in the Changma Basin, Gansu Province, northwestern China.

This site yielded over 100 early Cretaceous bird skeletons, many of which preserved soft tissues such as feathers and skin. However, until now, no non-avian dinosaur specimens had been recorded from this location.

Dr. O’Connor remarked, “Scientists had uncovered strange clusters of dismembered bird bones at this site, but we lacked an understanding of what had caused them.”

“Now, with the discovery of Jiang Changmensis, we have our best hypothesis.”

“This is the only dinosaur found at this site that isn’t a bird, and it was considerably larger than the other dinosaurs discovered there.”

The discovery of Jiang Changmensis holds greater implications beyond identifying a new species.

Previously, all distinct members of the Microraptorinae subfamily were found in the Jehor Group, a series of geological formations located approximately 2,000 km from Changma, extending confirmed ranges into northwestern China.

Dr. Matt Lamanna, a paleontologist at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, emphasized, “Jiang Changmensis demonstrates that non-avian dinosaurs inhabited the current Chanma Basin, renowned for its bird fossils.”

“Our team has recovered over 100 bird fossils in Chanma, but this is the sole non-avian dinosaur specimen.”

Jiang Changmensis offers critical new insights into the biological history of the Changma region and the ecological context of today’s bird ancestors.

“Understanding life on Earth today necessitates examining its origins.”

“Birds are arguably the most successful group of terrestrial vertebrates on the planet today.”

“By exploring early birds and their non-avian dinosaur relatives, we gain a clearer understanding of why this avian group has persevered.”

The team’s findings are published today in the Carnegie Chronicle Museum.

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Zhou Lingqi et al. 2026. A non-avian theropod (Dromaeosauridae, Microraptoridae) first identified in the Lower Cretaceous Xiagou Formation, cohabiting with birds, from the Changma Basin, Gansu Province, northwest China. Carnegie Chronicle Museum 92(2):89-110.

Source: www.sci.news

Newly Discovered Axolotl Fossil Unearthed in Mexico

Posted on June 2, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists Discover New Axolotl Species: Ambystoma from fossil specimens found in a rocky outcrop in Hidalgo, Mexico. The species, named Ambystoma quetzalcoatli, is closely related to existing species in the central Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, including the Mexican axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) and other endemic lake species.

Ambystoma quetzalcoatli and various aquatic and terrestrial species.” width=”580″ height=”368″ srcset=”https://cdn.sci.news/images/2026/06/image_14811_1-Ambystoma-quetzalcoatli.jpg 580w, https://cdn.sci.news/images/2026/06/image_14811_1-Ambystoma-quetzalcoatli-300×190.jpg 300w, https://cdn.sci.news/images/2026/06/image_14811_1-Ambystoma-quetzalcoatli-80×50.jpg 80w” sizes=”(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px”/>

Reconstruction of the late Pliocene paleolake Santa Maria Amajac, showcasing the paleobiodiversity including Ambystoma quetzalcoatli and various species of flora and fauna. Image credit: Diana Guzmanán-Madrid.

The new species, Ambystoma quetzalcoatli, thrived approximately 4.2 million years ago during the late Pliocene in what is now Hidalgo.

This species marks the oldest known record of the Ambystoma genus in Mexico.

“Ambystoma, a genus established in 1838, contains salamanders native to North America,” explained paleontologists Jorge Herrera Flores and María Patricia Velasco de Leon from the Autonomous University of Mexico.

“This genus is known for its distinctive developmental biology, with some species displaying paedomorphism, where adult individuals retain juvenile characteristics.”

“Living Ambystoma species are found across North America, from southern Canada to parts of the United States and the Mexican plateau,” they added.

The Ambystoma genus comprises 38 extant species, of which 18 are native to Mexico, with 17 being endemic.

The fossil record of Ambystoma is robust, particularly in the United States, where species such as the Tiger salamander (Ambystoma tigrinum) and many extinct relatives have been documented.

Ambystoma quetzalcoatli. Image credit: Jorge A. Herrera-Flores & María Patricia Velasco-de León.” width=”580″ height=”868″ srcset=”https://cdn.sci.news/images/2026/06/image_14811_2-Ambystoma-quetzalcoatli.jpg 580w, https://cdn.sci.news/images/2026/06/image_14811_2-Ambystoma-quetzalcoatli-200×300.jpg 200w” sizes=”(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px”/>

Subadult skeleton of Ambystoma quetzalcoatli. Image credit: Jorge A. Herrera-Flores & María Patricia Velasco-de León.

The research team examined several salamander fossils collected from the Sanctorum Fossil Site in the Santa Maria Amajac region.

By comparing these fossils to various Mexican relatives, they confirmed the discovery of a new species: Ambystoma quetzalcoatli.

This species exhibits a unique combination of skeletal features absent in living relatives, including:

A distinctive V-shaped opening on the anterior surface of the premaxilla.
A persistent gap in the top of the skull across different developmental stages, related to paedomorphism.
An unusually shaped parasphenoid bone at the base of the skull.

“The integration of these morphological traits supports the classification of Ambystoma quetzalcoatli as a distinct species,” the researchers stated.

The discovery of Ambystoma quetzalcoatli enriches our understanding of the biodiversity of the ancient Lake Amajac system.

This region has yielded numerous unique fossil species, including extinct oaks, beetles, diatoms, and goodaid fishes.

The scientists propose that geographic isolation due to the surrounding mountains may have fostered the evolution of these unique species.

“The fossil description of this new Ambystoma species underscores the morphological diversity within Ambystomatidae, particularly throughout the evolutionary history of Mexican species,” they concluded.

“Moreover, the Santa María Amajac area is crucial for understanding the development of Mexico’s modern megadiverse fauna, increasing the chances for further discoveries.”

The research team published their findings in the online journal Old Trogia Electronica in May 2026. Read their paper here.

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Jorge A. Herrera Flores and Maria Patricia Velasco de Leon. 2026. Ambystoma quetzalcoatli: A new axolotl fossil species (Caudata: Ambystomatidae) from the Pliocene in Santa Maria Amajac, Hidalgo, Mexico. Old Trogia Electronica 29 (2): a19; doi: 10.26879/1644

Source: www.sci.news

New Dinosaur Species Discovered in Argentina: Expert Fisher of the Prehistoric Seas

Posted on May 30, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists in Argentina have discovered an unprecedented species of non-enraged dinosaur, canku australis, that lived in freshwater wetlands during the Late Cretaceous period. This discovery reinforces the notion that certain dinosaurs had evolved specialized adaptations for catching fish.

Reconstructing the life of canku australis. Image credit: Gabriel Díaz Yanten.

The newly characterized species, canku australis, thrived approximately 70 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period.

This ancient reptile inhabited environments adorned with meandering rivers, seasonal ponds, and aquatic flora like water lilies, alongside a diverse fauna including fish, insects, and various mollusks.

canku australis grew to an estimated length of about 2.5 to 3 meters (8.2 to 9.8 feet).

This dinosaur was part of the Urticidae family, a group of feathered, bird-like theropods closely related to famous dinosaurs like Velociraptor, known to inhabit regions such as South America, Antarctica, Australia, and Madagascar.

Dr. Matias Motta from the Bernardino Rivadavia Museum of Natural Sciences and his team stated, “The paraavian family Urticidae is documented through fossils from various Cretaceous basins across South America, Madagascar, Australia, and Antarctica, but the Northern Patagonia region, particularly the Neuquén Basin, yields the most notable species.”

“This includes at least eight species, primarily from the Cenomanian-Santonian Formation, with the exception of the Maastrichtian, including Austroraptor kabazai,” he added.

“The evolutionary lineage and biodiversity of the Urticidae in South America remains understudied.”

“The discovery of canku australis helps bridge gaps in the Late Cretaceous fossil record of southern Patagonia and links existing records from northern Patagonia and Antarctica, highlighting the dispersal of this family across varying latitudes in South America.”

Fossil remains of canku australis—which include teeth, vertebrae, and toe bones—were discovered in the Chorrillo Formation at La Anita farm near El Calafate, Santa Cruz, Patagonia, Argentina.

Dr. Motta noted, “Excavations at this site have been ongoing since 2018, revealing a broad range of plant and animal fossils.”

The first remains of canku australis were identified in 2018, although initial findings were too fragmentary to classify it as a new species.

Subsequent expeditions yielded additional materials, culminating in the discovery of cervical vertebrae in 2024, which played a crucial role in recognizing this new Unenragine dinosaur.

These fossils suggest valuable insights into the lifestyle and behaviors of canku australis.

Dr. Motta explains, “The cervical vertebrae of canku australis feature unique structures for muscle attachment and the protection of blood vessels in the neck, a vital characteristic seen in modern birds like herons with complex neck movements.”

This evidence implies that canku australis might have been an adept fisherman, contrasting with the traditional perspective of raptors such as Velociraptor as primarily terrestrial predators.

“Like its relatives, canku australis possessed a prominent raptor claw on its second toe, yet it distinguished itself with teeth characterized by sharp, pronounced longitudinal ridges and notably pneumatic cervical vertebrae containing internal air chambers.”

This species is also smaller and more agile compared to other non-enragid dinosaurs from the Late Cretaceous, such as Austroraptor kabazai.

The findings contribute further evidence supporting the idea that the Urticidae were fish-eaters.

Dr. Motta remarked, “Their elongated snouts, numerous teeth, and long, flexible necks suggest adaptations for fishing, akin to modern herons.” Remarkably, fossils of canku australis were found alongside fish remains, reinforcing this hypothesis.

Nevertheless, it’s plausible that canku australis also preyed on other inhabitants of its environment, such as frogs, lizards, turtles, and even mammals like Patagorrhinx pasquali, a semi-aquatic monotreme related to modern echidnas and platypuses.

During its time, canku australis coexisted with formidable carnivores like Maipu’s giant chest, a daunting megaraptorid dinosaur over 10 meters (33 feet) in length, possibly posing a threat.

The complete findings were published this week in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology.

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Matthias J. Motta et al. A new Unenragid from the Chorrillo Formation (Late Cretaceous, Maastrichtian), southwestern Patagonia, Argentina. Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, published online on May 28, 2026. doi: 10.1080/02724634.2026.2656456

Source: www.sci.news

Surprising Activity Discovered in Mini-World Near Pluto: Experts Are Baffled

Posted on May 28, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A fascinating discovery has unveiled that a small frozen world in the outer solar system possesses an atmosphere, marking it as the second celestial body after Pluto—preceding Neptune—to exhibit such a feature.

This groundbreaking finding, detailed in Natural Astronomy, suggests that these mini-worlds might be more geologically active than previously assumed by planetary scientists.

The celestial body, designated as 2002 XV93, is classified as both an asteroid and a Trans-Neptunian Object (TNO). It orbits the Sun in the Kuiper Belt, a region beyond Neptune’s orbit.

Miniature Pluto: 2002 XV93

2002 XV93’s atmosphere, remarkably thin—about 5 to 10 million times lighter than Earth’s—renders it imperceptible to touch when standing on its surface.

Notably, Pluto is currently the only other TNO known to host an atmosphere, with a diameter of 2,377 km (1,480 miles), which is over five times greater than that of 2002 XV93.

The small size of 2002 XV93 translates to significantly weak gravity, allowing its surrounding atmosphere to easily escape into space. Research indicates this atmosphere could vanish completely within 100 to 1,000 years, implying a continual replenishment of gases.

Two primary theories are posited regarding this atmospheric replenishment:

The first involves frigid volcanic activity. Here, extremely low temperatures cause “volatile substances”—liquids or gases at room temperature, like water, methane, and ammonia—to mimic the behavior of rock or magma.

Ko Arimatsu from the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, leading the study, stated, “Volatile substances may leak out from beneath the ice surface, possibly due to activities such as polar volcanoes.” These gases can contribute to the formation of an atmosphere.

However, periodic polar volcanic activity has only been observed on larger celestial bodies until now.

The second possibility involves recent external influences. “A small icy object may have recently collided with 2002 XV93, releasing gas or exposing volatile materials,” Arimatsu explained.

“Such collisions are likely rare; thus, the chance of observing a transient atmosphere at the opportune moment is low, yet we cannot dismiss the collision theory.”

In essence, while it seems unlikely that the researchers timed their observations precisely, this angle remains an area of intrigue.

Observation During Solar Eclipse

The orbit of 2002 XV93 around the Sun takes approximately 247 years. Its distant position relative to Earth complicates direct observations.

Arimatsu’s team employed a technique called “occultation,” where a planetary body obscures a distant star as it passes in front.

“If a celestial body had no atmosphere, the starlight would vanish and then reappear distinctly,” says Arimatsu. “However, with an atmosphere present, the gases slightly bend the light, softening the transition.”

On January 10, 2024, three Japanese observatories successfully observed the occultation of 2002 XV93.

“Our findings, particularly from Japan’s Kiso Observatory, demonstrate that the star’s light fades gradually at the edge of the shadow, a phenomenon best explained by the bending of light by a very thin atmosphere surrounding 2002 XV93,” Arimatsu commented.

The research team plans to utilize the James Webb Space Telescope for further analysis of the atmosphere’s composition, but more occultation observations are crucial for definitive answers.

“These observations can reveal whether the atmosphere is dissipating, stable, or evolving over time,” notes Arimatsu.

The gradual decline of the atmosphere points towards it slowly escaping without replenishment, lending credence to the impact theory. In contrast, a more stable or fluctuating atmosphere could indicate a constant supply of gases stemming from the interior of 2002 XV93.

However, occultation requires precise alignments, and, according to Arimatsu, “Only about 10 observatories had the requisite geometry and data quality to investigate the very thin atmosphere surrounding an object of this scale.”

This reality may imply that it will take longer to ascertain the true nature of 2002 XV93’s atmosphere.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

New Deep-Sea Octopus Species Discovered Near Galapagos Islands

Posted on May 25, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A newly identified deep-sea octopus species, discovered 1,773 meters below the surface near Darwin Island, challenges existing classifications within the Megaleredoniidae family, necessitating updates to traditional scientific definitions.

Microeredon galapagensis. Image credit: Voight et al., doi: 10.11646/zootaxa.5814.4.5.

Traditionally, Megaleredoniidae octopuses were defined as large-bodied species native to the frigid, isolated waters of Antarctica.

However, the newly classified species Microeredon galapagensis defies this characterization.

Dr. Janet Voigt, curator emeritus of invertebrates at the Field Museum of Natural History, noted, “Spinous octopods of the deep eastern tropical Pacific remain largely unexplored.”

“Advanced underwater vehicles have provided rare glimpses of these elusive animals, revealing unexpected taxa,” she added.

“Among these discoveries are the small tropical octopods belonging to the family Megaleredoniidae.”

“This family was originally recognized for its substantial Antarctic presence, including species such as Megaleredone Setebos, known for its distinctive adaptations to the cold depths of the Southern Ocean.”

The single female specimen of Microeredon galapagensis was collected during a 2015 research cruise near Darwin Island, an area rich in biodiversity closely associated with Charles Darwin’s scientific work.

Given the difficulty of securing additional specimens, researchers employed micro-CT imaging to study the octopus’s anatomy non-destructively.

“To accurately describe a new octopus species, we need to observe every anatomical part, including the mouth and beak. We were careful not to destroy our only specimen,” Dr. Voigt explained.

“CT imaging is vital for examining rare specimens like this one, as it allows us to gather detailed information without compromising the specimen’s integrity.”

Dr. Stephanie Smith, also from the Field Museum, emphasized the significance of these finds, stating, “It’s exhilarating to showcase these extraordinarily rare and stunning specimens to the public.”

“It’s unparalleled to witness something that few, if any, others have seen.”

The CT scan offered remarkable insights into Microeredon galapagensis, revealing its bifurcated stomach and dormant eggs with unparalleled detail.

Dr. Alexander Ziegler from the University of Bonn remarked, “The depth of detail obtained from the scan of such a small octopus was astonishing. Typically, soft-tissue imaging necessitates contrast agents, which aren’t suitable for such precious specimens.”

This precision facilitates the 3D modeling of its vital organs.

During the same exploration, two additional octopuses believed to belong to the same species were observed, hinting at a possible local population.

“These small deep-sea octopuses are among the rarest creatures on Earth. We are fortunate to study them,” commented Dr. Voigt.

“Even if all land masses were connected, it would be impossible to map the expanse of the Pacific Ocean, leaving much of its depths unexplored.”

The discovery of Microeredon galapagensis is detailed in a research paper published in the journal Zootaxa.

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Janet R. Voight et al. 2026. A new species of Microeredon from the Galapagos Islands and a revised diagnosis of the Megaleredoniidae (Octopoda: Incirrata). Zootaxa 5814 (4): 533-549; doi: 10.11646/zootaxa.5814.4.5

Source: www.sci.news

83 Million-Year-Old Crocodile Lizard Fossil Discovered in France

Posted on May 23, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have discovered a new genus and species of pancinisaur lizard, named Acutodon villeveyracensis, from an upper jaw fossil found in southern France. This discovery extends the presence of this lineage in Europe back by at least 30 million years.

Paleo-artistic restoration of Acutodon villeveyracensis, the oldest known member of the pansinisaurid family found in Europe. Image credit: Olivier Jansen.

Pansinisaurus Anguimorphs represent an evolutionary group of lizards that originated in the Early Cretaceous period.

Currently, this lineage exists in only one surviving species: the endangered Chinese Crocodile Lizard (Sinisaurus crocodilius), found in small forest streams of southeastern China and northern Vietnam.

Scientists estimate that only a few hundred individuals of this species remain, facing threats from habitat destruction, poaching, and climate change.

“The Chinese Crocodile Lizard represents the only extant member of the pan-sinisaurus clade (comparable to sinisaurids),” stated Dr. Olivier Jansen, paleontologist at the Institute of Paleontology, Evolutionary Paleoecological Systems, and Paleoprimates of the University of Poitiers and CNRS, alongside his colleagues.

“This species is concentrated in small subpopulations within the lowland forests of southeastern China and northern Vietnam.”

“They face severe risks from habitat loss and rampant poaching, exacerbated by demand for food, pharmaceuticals, and the illegal pet trade.”

“Chinese Alligator Lizards are also impacted by climate change. Adapted to clean streams in dense vegetation of remote evergreen forests, they depend on consistently moderate temperatures each year.”

“Despite being on the edge of extinction, the evolutionary history of this group remains inadequately understood, and the species may vanish before we unravel the mystery of its origins.”

The newly identified species, Acutodon villeveyracensis, thrived during the Campanian period of the Late Cretaceous, approximately 83 million years ago in what is now France.

“This Cretaceous record marks the oldest occurrence of a pan-sinisaurian lizard in Europe,” the paleontologists emphasized.

“It predates the presence of this clade in Europe by about 30 million years, raising intriguing questions about the paleontological history of pancinisaur lizards.” The holotype specimen of Acutodon villeveyracensis was excavated near Villeverac in the Hérault region of France.

The fossilized specimen consists of an upper jaw bone measuring approximately 2.8 cm (1.1 inches) long, featuring a row of narrow, arched teeth.

This lizard exhibited several unique anatomical traits shared with both modern and extinct alligator lizards, notably the unique tooth replacement structures known as resorption pits.

The researchers concluded that the distinct combination of features warranted the classification of a new genus and species.

“Acutodon villeveyracensis is categorized as a pansinisaur angimorph based on its toothed upper jaw, which shares numerous features with both extant fossils of the Chinese Alligator Lizard and its relatives,” the researchers explained. These features include tall, tapered, and recurved teeth with constricted bases and resorption pits.

By analyzing the skull proportions of existing alligator lizards, scientists estimate that Acutodon villeveyracensis could have exceeded 1 meter (3.3 ft) in length.

“This species was indeed a predator, competing in size and habitat with other large squamates in its ecosystem, such as the terrestrial monsterosaurids and the aquatic mosasaurs,” the researchers added.

The unique alignment of teeth in Acutodon villeveyracensis—characterized by thin, tapered, and recurved teeth—supports a diet that likely included fish. Analogously to the Chinese Crocodile Lizard, it may have also preyed on other small vertebrates like frogs, salamanders, and Albanerpetonidae in the freshwater wetlands of Villevérac (Hérault, France).

The discovery of Acutodon villeveyracensis is detailed in a recent paper published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology.

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Olivier Jansen and colleagues. A new pancinisaur lizard (Anguimorpha) discovered in the lower Campanian region of Villeverac (Hérault, France). Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, published online on May 20, 2026. doi: 10.1080/02724634.2026.2636649

Source: www.sci.news

New Jurassic Pterosaur Species Discovered in Germany: Insights into Ancient Flying Reptiles

Posted on May 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A new genus and species of early monophenestratan pterosaur has been identified by paleontologists, based on a nearly complete and exceptionally preserved fossil skeleton found in Bavaria, Germany.

Holotype specimen of Laueropterus vitriolus viewed under natural light. Image credit: DWE Hone, doi: 10.7717/peerj.21204.

Pterosaurs were the first vertebrates to achieve powered flight, appearing roughly 210 million years ago and evolving from small birds to colossal creatures with wingspans comparable to small airplanes.

The newly described species, named Laueropterus vitriolus, belongs to a group of early pterosaurs known as monophenestratans. With a wingspan measuring approximately 1 meter (3.3 feet), it ranks among the largest members of this migratory group ever found.

“Early monofenestratans represent a relatively recent discovery in pterosaur evolution, first identified in 2010,” stated study author Dr. David Horne, a zoology reader at Queen Mary University of London.

“Through various analyses, these taxa were classified as both a clade and grade existing between non-monophenestratans and pterodactyls.”

“Some of the most advanced taxa have been designated as pterodactyls, representing derived monofenestratan and pterodactyl clades.”

The fossilized skeleton of Laueropterus vitriolus was unearthed in the Schaudyberg quarry around 2007, from the Mornsheim Formation.

This fossil dates back 150 to 143 million years (late Jurassic period), and includes the skull, jaw, spinal column, and most of the wings.

“The specimen is preserved on a sizable limestone slab measuring approximately 60 cm x 45 cm (2 feet x 1.5 feet),” Dr. Horne explained.

“The slab is predominantly gray, featuring thick white bars arranged at right angles that intersect at various points.”

“Pterosaur fossils are often exceptionally well-preserved and undistorted, allowing for clear outlines of thin elements such as the sternal plate.”

Laueropterus vitriolus exhibits a combination of both primitive and advanced features, including a large skull with a single opening that integrates the nostril and antorbital fenestra, characteristic of monophenestratan pterosaurs, alongside relatively short wing bones typical of earlier forms.

“Laueropterus vitriolus marks the fourth non-pterodactyl monophenestratan pterosaur discovered in Mülheim, alongside Skifosora, macrodactylus, and Rhamphodactylus,” Dr. Horne noted.

“This discovery represents the only other record of this grade in the region, with Proterodactylus found in much older deposits, highlighting that non-pterodactyl monophenestratans are significantly more common here.”

“Hundreds of pterosaur fossils have been excavated from the renowned Solnhofen Formation, yet fewer than a dozen non-pterodactyl monophenestratans have been documented in Mülheim, making this find exceptionally notable.”

The research findings were published online on May 11th in PeerJ.

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DWE Horne. 2026. A new, early monophenestratan pterosaur discovered from the Mornsheim Formation in southern Germany. PeerJ 14: e21204; doi: 10.7717/peerj.21204

Source: www.sci.news

Newly Discovered Asteroid to Pass Closer to Earth than Moon This Monday

Posted on May 18, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Discover the fascinating world of asteroids with the Virtual Telescope Project, operated by Italy’s Bellatrix Observatory. This platform is live-streaming stunning views of asteroids, including exciting flybys.

While many smaller asteroids zoom past Earth unobserved, some create spectacular displays, streaking through our atmosphere as bright fireballs.

The Chelyabinsk meteor, which impacted Russia in 2013, is the largest known space rock to enter Earth’s atmosphere. Its explosion caused significant damage, shattering windows and affecting the Chelyabinsk region.

The tremendous energy of the explosion was equivalent to 30 times that of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima, according to NASA. The Chelyabinsk meteor weighed around 11,000 tons and had a diameter of roughly 59 feet, making it slightly smaller than asteroid 2026 JH2, though the latter’s precise dimensions are still being determined.

Astronomers leverage a network of ground and space-based telescopes to keep tabs on asteroids and comets that may approach Earth. NASA’s Near Earth Observation Program plays a key role in identifying potentially hazardous asteroids and analyzing their orbits to assess any risks.

One asteroid currently under close scrutiny is Apophis, anticipated to approach Earth even more closely than asteroid 2026 JH2 in the years ahead.

Spanning approximately 1,200 feet in diameter, asteroid Apophis is projected to come within 20,000 miles of Earth on April 13, 2029.

NASA’s OSIRIS-APEX spacecraft is set to rendezvous with Apophis in June 2029 to investigate how Earth’s gravitational influence affects the orbits and physical characteristics of such space rocks. This mission follows the groundbreaking OSIRIS-REx mission, which returned the first-ever asteroid samples to Earth in 2023.

Having been in space since its launch in 2016, the OSIRIS-APEX mission faces potential budget cuts under the fiscal year 2027 proposal from the Trump administration. If these cuts proceed, OSIRIS-APEX could be among over 50 NASA missions slated for cancellation.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Newly Discovered Giant Dinosaur Species in Thailand Unveils Asia’s Hidden Diversity of Ancient Giants

Posted on May 15, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have unveiled an exciting discovery: a new genus and species of Somphospondylan titanosaur dinosaur, heralded as the largest ever found in Southeast Asia. Fossilized bones uncovered in Thailand provide compelling evidence that this region once hosted a remarkably diverse array of giant herbivores during the Early Cretaceous period.

Reconstruction of the life of Nagatitan chaiyapumensis in the arid floodplains of the Late Early Cretaceous Aptian-Albian period. Image credit: Pachanop Boonsai.

This newly described dinosaur species inhabited what is now northeastern Thailand approximately 113 million years ago.

Named Nagatitan chaiyapumensis, this ancient giant measured about 27 meters (89 feet) in length and weighed between 25 and 28 tons.

During its time, it coexisted with smaller plant-eating dinosaurs like iguanodonts and early ceratopsians, as well as predatory dinosaurs such as carcharodontosaurs and spinosaurs, alongside sharks, turtles, crocodile relatives, and pterosaurs.

“Our dinosaur is large by most standards, likely weighing at least 10 tons more than Dippy” (referring to Diplodocus carnegie), stated lead author Titiut (Pers) Sesapanitisakul from University College London.

“However, it still pales in comparison to massive sauropods like Patagotitan (60 tons) and Luyangosaurus (50 tons).

The fossil of Nagatitan chaiyapumensis was excavated from the Khok Kruat Formation in Chaiyaphum Province, Thailand.

“We consider Nagatitan chaiyapumensis the ‘last giant’ of Thailand,” Sesapanitisakul explained, “because it was found in a rock formation that contains the youngest dinosaurs.”

“Younger sediment deposited towards the end of the dinosaur era is unlikely to reveal dinosaur remains, as the area transformed into a shallow ocean by then.”

“This could represent the final or most recent large sauropod discovered in Southeast Asia.”

To classify Nagatitan chaiyapumensis, paleontologists compared its anatomy with over 150 other dinosaur species, situating it within the sauropod family tree.

The analysis established that the new species belongs to Euhelopodidae, a group of Somphospondylan titanosaurs primarily found in Asia.

This group also includes notable species such as Puwiangosaurus cylindornae from Thailand and Tanvayosaurus hofeti from Laos.

“This discovery highlights a trend of increased body size among Asian titanosaurs during the Mid-Cretaceous, likely driven by rising temperatures and the expansion of suitable habitats,” the researchers commented.

The identification of Nagatitan chaiyapumensis enhances the known diversity of sauropods in Southeast Asia and significantly contributes to our understanding of titanosaurs’ biogeography in this region.

The team’s paper has been published in the scientific journal Scientific Reports.

_____

T. Setapanitisakul et al. 2026. The first sauropod dinosaur discovered from the Early Cretaceous Khok Kruat Formation in Thailand enriches the diversity of vertebrate titanosaurids in Southeast Asia. Scientific Reports 16, 12467; doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-47482-x

Source: www.sci.news

Emerging Plate Boundary Discovered in Southern Africa

Posted on May 12, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Aerial View of the Kafue Rift’s Southern Boundary Fault Zone

Photo by Michael Daly

The African continent may be undergoing significant geological changes, as new evidence suggests that gas emissions from a series of hot springs in Zambia originate from deep within the Earth’s crust. This indicates the potential emergence of new tectonic plate boundaries.

Rift valleys, such as the prominent East African Rift stretching from the Red Sea to Mozambique, have showcased the gradual separation of continents over tens of millions of years. While it typically requires long periods for such tectonic activities to manifest, researchers are excited about the early signs of this process in Zambia’s Kafue Rift, according to Ruta Carolite from Oxford University.

The Kafue Rift forms part of an extensive 2,500-kilometer rift system stretching from Tanzania to Namibia and potentially reaching the Atlantic Ocean. Geologists hypothesize that this region is showcasing early indications of a new plate boundary due to its unique topography, gravity anomalies, elevated underground temperatures, and minimal seismic activity. Until recently, however, there was a lack of geochemical confirmation.

In their recent study, Karolytė and colleagues analyzed gas samples from five hot springs and three geothermal wells in central Zambia. Their findings showed that the isotopic ratios of helium and carbon in the gas closely resemble those found deep within the Earth’s crust. This suggests the presence of fluids originating from the mantle, as deep as 190 kilometers below the surface, indicating the awakening of tectonic rifting in the area.

“Our data confirm that this geological system is currently ‘active’ and in motion,” Carolite stated. “While the existence of an active rift valley doesn’t guarantee the formation of an ocean over the next 100 million years, the possibility remains.”

During the initial phases of continental rifting, gases trapped in rocks for millions of years are released. Notably, helium—a critical resource for high-tech and medical industries—has been detected in concentrations as high as 2.3% in the Kafue Rift’s fluids. This high concentration is drawing interest from industrial sectors.

“Identifying the ideal tectonic conditions to concentrate and release helium in a capture-friendly format is a challenging task,” Carolite explained.

Patrice Rey, a professor at the University of Sydney, concurs that while the region lacks active volcanoes or significant seismic events, there are numerous indicators of ongoing tectonic activity.

Recent geochemical insights from hot springs suggest that the Kafue Rift is transitioning towards becoming a continental rift, with primordial helium-3-rich mantle fluids ascending through its fractures. “It is plausible to foresee the Kafue Rift evolving into a plate boundary in the foreseeable future,” he remarks.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

New Koala Fossil Species Discovered in Museum Drawer: A groundbreaking Find

Posted on May 7, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A long-neglected fossil in the Western Australian Museum’s collection has been identified as a new species of koala, named Phascolarctus sulcomaxiliaris. This ancient animal vanished from Western Australia as drought and cooling transformed its habitat at the end of the Pleistocene epoch.

Reconstruction of Phascolarctus sulcomaxiliaris. Image credit: Nellie Pease.

Comparatively, the modern koala (Phascolarctus cinereus) is Australia’s largest arboreal folivorous creature and serves as one of the continent’s most iconic marsupials.

Koalas inhabit various forest types along Australia’s east coast and have also migrated to parts of South Australia, including Adelaide and Kangaroo Island.

These remarkable animals are currently listed as vulnerable. Historically, their populations have faced declines due to habitat destruction, disease, vehicle strikes, predation by dogs, and hunting for fur, according to the IUCN.

“Although the koala is now locally extinct in Western Australia (WA), its remains have been known since 1910,” stated Dr. Kenny Trabouillon from the Western Australian Museum and Curtin University.

“Bones attributed to this species have previously been reported from several cave deposits in southwestern WA, including Koala Cave at Yanchep and Madura Cave on the Low Plains.”

Due to similarities in their teeth, Phascolarctus cinereus and the new species were historically considered the same.

In their study, paleontologists analyzed 98 bones from fossil specimens in the Western Australian Museum’s collection.

They compared the skulls, teeth, and posterior skulls to modern koala skeletons housed in museum collections along Australia’s east coast, revealing distinct and quantifiable differences that characterized Phascolarctus sulcomaxiliaris.

“This species exhibits several notable distinctions from contemporary koalas,” Dr. Trabouillon noted.

“The presence of large facial muscles in deep grooves of the cheekbones suggests that this koala may have possessed unusually large and flexible lips, potentially useful for manipulating eucalyptus leaves or enhancing its sense of smell to detect food from afar.”

Additionally, it appears that its skeletal structure was less agile than that of modern koalas, indicating it may have spent less time traversing trees.

Fossils of Phascolarctus sulcomaxiliaris have now been found across more than a dozen locations in southern Western Australia, including Yanchep, Margaret River, and the Low Plains near Madura.

This extensive distribution suggests that these koalas once occupied a significantly larger range than previously understood.

Radiometric dating indicates that Phascolarctus sulcomaxiliaris became extinct around 28,000 years ago.

“This timing coincided with significant climate change during the Late Pleistocene, when eucalyptus forests were reduced to about 5% of their current coverage,” explained Dr. Trabouillon.

“With substantial loss of food and shelter, the koalas in this region faced severe habitat degradation, likely leading to the extinction of this unique species.”

A detailed paper describing Phascolarctus sulcomaxiliaris has been published in today’s edition of Royal Society Open Science.

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Kenny Trabouillon et al. 2026. A new fossil of a Pleistocene koala (Marsupial: Phascolarctidae) from Western Australia. R Soc Open Science 13 (5): 251572; doi: 10.1098/rsos.251572

Source: www.sci.news

Newly Discovered Extinct Koala Relative Found in Western Australia

Posted on May 6, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

An Artist’s Impression of Western Australia’s Koalas

WA Museum

Western Australian Koala Impression — An Artist’s Impression of Western Australia’s Koalas

WA Museum

Australia’s unique wildlife once included a second species of koala, endemic to Western Australia, which became extinct approximately 30,000 years ago.

The sole surviving species, Phascolarctus cinereus, thrives primarily in the eucalypt forests of eastern Australia. Unfortunately, they face threats including habitat destruction, disease outbreaks, vehicular collisions, and predation by invasive species.

Over the last century, fossils of koalas dating from 137,000 to 31,000 years ago have been unearthed in Western Australian caves. However, researchers lacked sufficient material to determine distinct species classifications until recently.

In the past 25 years, more fossils have been discovered, including a well-preserved skull donated by the family of the late speleologist, Lindsay Hatcher, who explored numerous caves in southwest Western Australia.

“The donation included a koala skull in excellent condition,” reveals Kenny Travouillon from the Western Australian Museum. “Upon examining the skull, we noted some differences from modern koalas, prompting further research into our fossil collection.”

To the untrained observer, the new species, named Phascolarctus sulcomaxiliaris, may appear similar to P. cinereus, but they exhibit notable differences.

“Essentially, the Western Australian koalas were similar yet distinct,” Travouillon explains. “Their heads were shorter and had less developed masticatory muscles compared to their eastern counterparts, indicating a different chewing mechanism, characterized by larger teeth and shorter jaws suited for efficiently processing leaves.”

The pronounced grooves on the cheeks of P. sulcomaxiliaris suggest the presence of robust muscles for maneuvering large lips to grasp leaves or to enhance their sense of smell from a distance. Additionally, its skeleton appears less agile, implying it was not as adept at navigating through trees.

About 30,000 years ago, as the climate dried and forests in Western Australia diminished, P. sulcomaxiliaris became extinct alongside many other species that shared this habitat, including the Tasmanian devil, sugar glider, echidna, short-faced kangaroo, and the giant marsupial Zygomaturus.”

“The first human inhabitants of Western Australia would have coexisted with these fascinating creatures, witnessing their extinction,” notes Tim Flannery of the Australian Museum in Sydney. “This research provides compelling evidence that the Western Australian koala represents a unique species. We hope to extract DNA from these fossils in the future.”

Fossil Hunting in the Australian Outback

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Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Ancient Sauropod Dinosaur Fossil Discovered in China: Insights into Prehistoric Giants

Posted on May 5, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A newly discovered genus and species of Masopodan sauropodomorph, named Kounryu Hōmei, has been identified from a partial skeleton found in southwestern China, dating back to the early Jurassic period. This remarkable dinosaur represents a crucial link between early herbivores and the massive four-legged sauropods that would later dominate the Mesozoic Era.

Artist’s impression of Kounryu Hōmei. Image credit: Connor Ashbridge / CC BY 4.0.

Kounryu Hōmei inhabited what is now China approximately 190 million years ago during the early Jurassic period.

Fossil evidence suggests that this dinosaur measured about 9 to 10 meters (30 to 33 feet) in length, making it one of the largest known early-branching sauropods unearthed in China.

This species belongs to the Masopodan group, which existed from the Late Triassic to the Late Cretaceous.

“The Early Jurassic was a key era in dinosaur evolution, marking the diversification and emergence of sauropod dominance in terrestrial ecosystems,” stated Dr. Ya-Ming Wang from the China Museum of Geology and colleagues.

“Within this group, non-sauropod Masopoda sauropods played a significant role in the evolutionary trajectory leading to the distinctive large body shapes associated with sauropods.”

“Therefore, understanding the anatomy, diversity, and paleobiogeography of these early-diverging sauropods is essential for unraveling the origins of one of the most successful dinosaur clades, the sauropods.”

The partial skeleton of Kounryu Hōmei was discovered in the Fengjiahe Formation located in Luming Town, Yunnan Province, China.

The specimen consists of the neck, back, tail vertebrae, and part of the hip joint.

Analysis of these fossils revealed an unusual combination of traits, indicating an alternative evolutionary path. Notably, it had a strong, elongated tail rather than the long neck typically associated with large dinosaurs.

Despite its relatively short neck for its body size, the tail may have played a balancing role, enabling this dinosaur to stand on its hind legs and feed.

Through phylogenetic analysis, researchers found that Kounryu Hōmei occupies a pivotal evolutionary position between early sauropods and more advanced forms closer to true sauropods.

“The discovery of this new specimen greatly enriches the known Early Jurassic dinosaur fauna of southwestern China,” the authors remarked.

“This provides essential new anatomical features that enhance our understanding of morphological differences and evolutionary patterns among early-diverging sauropods.”

The findings were published in the Royal Society Open Science on March 25th.

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Hu Shaobin et al. 2026. A neosauropod dinosaur discovered from the Lower Jurassic Fengjiahe Formation in Dali, Yunnan Province, China. R Soc Open Science 13 (3): 252219; doi: 10.1098/rsos.252219

Source: www.sci.news

Newly Discovered ‘X-Ray Dot’ Object Could Unveil the Mystery Behind the Enigmatic ‘Small Red Dot’

Posted on April 30, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory has uncovered a remarkable object that could be the crucial link between a concealed “black hole star” and a fully visible supermassive black hole, shedding light on the growth of the universe’s earliest giants.

Optical and infrared images from Hubble depict the region around the X-ray dot, while Chandra X-ray images illustrate its surroundings. Image credits: NASA / CXC / Max Plank Inst / Hviding et al. / ESA / STScI / HST / CXC / SAO / N. Walk.

Shortly after the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope initiated its scientific observations, new reports surfaced regarding a novel class of enigmatic astronomical entities.

Astronomers have identified numerous small red objects situated approximately 12 billion light-years away from Earth, dubbed “little red dots” (LRDs).

Many researchers suspect that LRDs are supermassive black holes encapsulated in dense gas clouds, obscuring features that typically help astronomers detect these celestial objects, including X-rays.

Unlike conventional growing supermassive black holes, which are not surrounded by dense gas, LRDs’ light emissions are hindered, preventing the escape of bright ultraviolet and X-rays from the material orbiting the black hole.

A recently identified “X-ray dot,” located about 11.8 billion light-years from Earth, might serve as a pivotal connection between black hole stars and typical growing supermassive black holes.

This object, known as 3DHST-AEGIS-12014, exhibits characteristics of an LRD—small, red, and distant—but uniquely emits X-ray light.

“Astronomers have been trying to decipher the nature of the little red dot for years,” commented Dr. Raphael Widing from the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy.

“This singular X-ray phenomenon could be the key to connecting all the dots, so to speak.”

This exceptional object was discovered through a comparison of new Webb data against comprehensive previous surveys conducted by Chandra.

“If this little red dot is a rapidly growing supermassive black hole, why does it not emit X-rays like its counterparts?” questioned Dr. Anna de Graaf from Harvard University and the Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.

“Identifying small red dots that exhibit differing properties from other dots offers crucial new insights into the mechanisms behind their power.”

The researchers propose that this X-ray dot signifies a transitional phase from an LRD to a typical growing supermassive black hole.

As a black hole star consumes gas from its surroundings, gaps in the gas cloud form.

This allows X-rays from the matter descending into the black hole to penetrate and be detected by Chandra.

Ultimately, as the gas is fully consumed, the black hole star will cease to exist.

Chandra’s X-ray dot data also hints at fluctuations in the brightness of the X-rays, supporting the notion of a partially obscured black hole.

As the gas cloud rotates, varying densities of gas encircle the black hole, affecting X-ray brightness.

“If we confirm that the X-ray dot is indeed a small red dot in transition, it could be unprecedented and may reveal the core of a small red dot for the first time,” stated Princeton University’s Hanpu Liu.

“This would also provide strong evidence that a growing supermassive black hole resides at the center of some, if not all, of the tiny red dot population.”

Another hypothesis about the X-ray dot is that it could be a common type of growing supermassive black hole, albeit shrouded in an unusual type of dust yet to be documented.

Future observations are planned to uncover the truth behind this discovery.

“The X-ray dot has been part of our Chandra survey data for over a decade, but we only recognized its significance after Webb observed the region,” remarked Dr. Andy Golding of Princeton University.

“This exemplifies the strength of collaboration between two remarkable observatories.”

This discovery is documented in the following article: paper in Astrophysical Journal Letters.

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Raphael E. Viding et al. 2026. X-ray dots: exotic dust or late-stage tiny red dots? APJL 1000, L18; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/ae4c88

Source: www.sci.news

Newly Discovered Triassic Dinosaur Species Unearthed in New Mexico

Posted on April 18, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A newly identified genus and species of carnivorous herrerasaurid dinosaur has been revealed from a well-preserved skull unearthed in northern New Mexico.

Artistic rendition of Ptychoterates buculentus. Image credit: Megan Sodano / Virginia Tech.

This newly discovered dinosaur species lived approximately 201 million years ago during the Rhaetian period of the Late Triassic era.

Identified as Ptychoterates buculentus, this species offers a rare glimpse into a lesser-known chapter of dinosaur evolution.

“Dinosaurs emerged during the Carnian period (237 to 227 million years ago) in the early Late Triassic and eventually branched into three lineages that thrived into the Jurassic: ornithischians, theropods, and sauropods,” explained Virginia Tech paleontologists Simba Srivastava and Stirling Nesbitt.

“While most of the earliest dinosaur fossils have been found in high-latitude regions of Pangea (present-day Brazil, Argentina, Zimbabwe, and India), comparable dinosaur remains from lower latitudes (like Late Triassic deposits in the southwestern United States and Morocco) are rare.”

The fossil remains of Ptychoterates buculentus include a nearly complete skull, which features an intact braincase and the majority of the skull roof, discovered in 1982 at the Coelophysis Quarry in northern New Mexico.

The skull measures about 22 cm (9 inches) in length, indicating it was a relatively tall and narrow-headed dinosaur.

“The skull reveals this species had prominent cheekbones, a broad braincase, and likely a short, deep snout,” added the paleontologist.

“These characteristics are the first of their kind seen in early dinosaurs, highlighting the ongoing evolution of these magnificent creatures.”

Ptychoterates buculentus belongs to one of the earliest-known families of carnivorous dinosaurs, the Herrerasauria.

This species is closely related to two other Triassic dinosaurs, Tawa Harae and Chindesaurus briansmalli.

These species form part of a newly defined clade, Morphoraptora, characterized by a mix of anatomical traits found in both primitive dinosaurs and later theropods.

“Our anatomical comparisons with other Triassic archosaurs support the identification of Ptychoterates buculentus as a new taxon within the saurischian dinosaurs, closely linked to Tawa Harae,” explained the researchers.

“More broadly, our findings position Ptychoterates buculentus as a member of Morphoraptora, a clade known primarily from Late Triassic deposits in the southwestern United States.”

Previously, scientists believed that by the late Triassic period, the earliest lineages of carnivorous dinosaurs had vanished, replaced by more advanced theropods.

However, the discovery of Ptychoterates buculentus indicates that some of these lineages survived much longer than anticipated, at least in the lower latitudes of the ancient supercontinent Pangea.

“Ptychoterates buculentus was found in strata that appear to date just before the Great Extinction at the end of the Triassic, and members of this family never appeared again, suggesting that this group perished due to the mass extinction,” the scientists noted.

“This finding necessitates a reevaluation of the end-Triassic extinction’s impact, showing that it not only eliminated competing dinosaur species but also long-established dinosaur lineages,” Srivastava added.

“Furthermore, since herrerasaurids have not been discovered elsewhere in the Late Triassic, it is likely that what is now the American Southwest served as the final refuge for these dinosaurs.”

The discovery of Ptychoterates buculentus is detailed in a research paper published in this week’s edition of the journal Paleontology Papers.

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Simba Srivastava & Sterling J. Nesbitt. 2026. A new taxon of saurischian dinosaurs (Triassic: modern Norian or Rhaetian) from Coelophysis Quarry in New Mexico, USA, highlighting the diversity of Herrerasaurus in the Late Triassic. Paleontology Papers 12 (2): e70069; doi: 10.1002/spp2.70069

Source: www.sci.news

250 Million-Year-Old Dicynodont Egg Discovered in South Africa: A Rare Paleontological Find

Posted on April 11, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have utilized high-resolution CT and synchrotron scanning technology to confirm that early Triassic fossil specimens from South Africa’s Karoo Basin feature immature dicynodonts. The mystery surrounding whether the early mammalian ancestor, Lystrosaurus, laid eggs has finally been solved. Researchers propose that dicynodont eggs were likely soft-shelled, which explains their long-elusive nature.

Developed eggs of dicynodont monoapsids from the Early Triassic Lystrosaurus. Image credit: Benoit et al., doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0345016.

Lystrosaurus is a significant group of primarily herbivorous vertebrates that thrived during the Permian and Triassic periods.

This ancient creature measured between 1.8 and 2.4 meters (6 to 8 feet) in length and possessed no teeth, except for a pair of fangs in its upper jaw.

Fossils of Lystrosaurus can be found in locations such as China, Europe, India, South Africa, and Antarctica, providing evidence for the existence of the ancient supercontinent Pangea.

Professor Julien Benoit from the University of Witwatersrand stated, “In over 150 years of South African paleontology, no fossils have been definitively classified as therapsid eggs.”

“The discovery that the ancestors of mammals, like Lystrosaurus, laid eggs is a significant milestone in paleontology,” he added.

Professor Benoit and colleagues utilized advanced image processing to investigate three regions in a Lystrosaurus specimen unearthed from the Karoo Basin of South Africa.

One of the specimens exhibited a tightly curled posture, indicating it was still encased in its egg and lacked its fangs.

“Understanding the reproductive methods of our mammalian ancestors has been a long-standing question, and this fossil offers crucial insights,” said Dr. Vincent Fernandez, a researcher at the European Synchrotron (ESRF).

“Precision in scanning the fossil was crucial to attain the level of detail needed for such small, delicate structures.”

“Upon seeing the incomplete mandibular symphysis, I was filled with excitement,” Professor Benoit remarked.

“The mandible, or lower jaw, consists of two halves that must fuse together before the animal can feed.”

“The absence of this fusion indicates the individual could not nourish itself.”

Artist’s impression of Lystrosaurus. Image credit: Victor O. Leshyk, www.victorleshyk.com / University of Birmingham.

According to the research team, Lystrosaurus eggs were relatively large in relation to their body size.

“In many modern animals, larger eggs typically contain more yolk, which provides essential nutrients for the embryo’s independent development after hatching, without the need for parental feeding,” the researchers noted.

This strongly indicates that, unlike modern mammals, Lystrosaurus did not produce milk for their young.

“Larger eggs also offer a significant advantage: they are more resistant to drying out.”

“In the harsh, drought-prone environment that followed the extinction, this trait would have been vital for survival.”

The findings suggest that Lystrosaurus hatchlings were likely precocial, emerging at a relatively advanced developmental stage.

“These young individuals could have fed themselves, evaded predators, and rapidly reached reproductive maturity,” the researchers concluded.

This groundbreaking discovery not only serves as the first direct evidence of egg-laying in a mammalian ancestor but also elucidates how Lystrosaurus successfully dominated the ecosystem following the extinction event.

“Our research illustrates that the ancestors of mammals, like Lystrosaurus, produced eggs, offering clarity on the origins of mammalian reproduction,” said Professor Benoit.

“Beyond this significant insight, it reveals how reproductive strategies can influence survival in extreme conditions. By laying large, nutrient-rich eggs, Lystrosaurus thrived in the harsh, unpredictable surroundings after the end-Permian mass extinction.”

The study is published in PLoS ONE.

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J. Benoit et al. 2026. The first non-mammalian monoapsid embryo discovered in the Triassic of South Africa. PLoS One 21 (4): e0345016; doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0345016

Source: www.sci.news

Ancient Iron Smelting Workshop Discovered in Senegal: A 2,400-Year-Old Archaeological Find

Posted on April 3, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Excavations at the Dide West 1 site in eastern Senegal have revealed a remarkably preserved iron smelting workshop, which was constructed between the 4th century BC and the 4th century AD and was active for nearly eight centuries.

A pile of tuyeres discovered at Dide West 1 in Senegal. Image credit: Ann Mayer.

In Europe, the Iron Age is typically defined as spanning from approximately 800 BC to the conclusion of the 1st century AD, but these timeframes vary significantly across the globe.

The earliest indications of iron production are believed to trace back to the second millennium BC in regions like Anatolia (present-day Türkiye) and the Caucasus.

“The iron smelting workshop at the Dide Ouest 1 site in Senegal provides valuable insights into the development of iron metallurgy in West Africa,” stated UNIGE archaeologist Melissa Morel and her research team.

The workshop features a substantial accumulation of nearly 100 tons of slag, around 30 used tuyeres (earthen pipes that channel air into the furnace) semicircularly arranged, and 35 circular furnace bases approximately 30 cm deep.

This iron production likely catered to local demands, particularly for crafting agricultural tools.

“Due to its exceptional preservation, historical significance, duration of use, and unique technical characteristics, this site stands out,” remarked Dr. Morel.

“This offers a rare opportunity to analyze the continuity and evolution of iron smelting technologies over time.”

“At Dide West 1, the layout, furnace structure, and waste materials reveal a tradition identified as FAL02.”

“This type of furnace includes a small circular design with a removable chimney and large clay tuyeres.”

“A significant feature of these tuyeres is their multi-outlet design, which connects small openings to the main channel via vertical side ducts, enabling optimal air distribution to the furnace base.”

“Another notable aspect is the innovative use of palm kernel seeds as packing at the furnace bottom—a method not previously documented.”

“Despite its prolonged operation, this workshop’s traditions have shown remarkable stability, with only minor technical modifications,” said Dr. Anne Mayol, archaeologist at UNIGE and the Institute for Global Studies.

“This continuity stands in contrast to metallurgical practices in other African contexts, underscoring the importance of understanding the technical and cultural decisions made by early iron producers.”

The team’s research paper was published in the African Archaeology Review.

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M. Morel et al. Early and long-term evolution of iron smelting technology at Dide West 1, Fareme Valley, eastern Senegal. African Archaeology Review, published online March 25, 2026. doi: 10.1007/s10437-026-09653-z

Source: www.sci.news

Rare Harvestman Species Discovered in Ukrainian and Baltic Amber

Posted on April 2, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

In an article published on March 18 in the Journal Acta Paleontology Polonica, paleontologists have unveiled an exciting discovery: a new species of harvestman identified from two Eocene amber pieces originating from Ukraine and the Baltic Sea region.

Reconstruction of Balticolasma Wunderlichi by artist Joshua Knüppe.

The newly identified harvestman is the first known member of the subfamily Ortholasmatinae found in the fossil record.

This species, named Balticolasma Wunderlichi, thrived in Europe approximately 35 million years ago during the Eocene epoch.

Today, these intricate, often ornate arachnids are primarily found in certain regions of East Asia and the Americas.

“The Ortholasmatinae subfamily contains some of the most visually striking modern harvestmen, characterized by complex and branched eye tubercles and unique dorsal microcarvings known as keel cells,” remarked paleontologist Christian Bartel from the Bavarian State Collection of Natural History and his colleagues.

“Currently, there are seven extant genera with 27 described species, each exhibiting distinct distributions.”

Balticolasma Wunderlichi was identified based on two specimens: a suspected female from Rovno amber in northwestern Ukraine and a male specimen preserved in Baltic Sea amber.

The fossils originated from private collections in Germany (Baltic Sea specimen) and Lithuania (Rovno specimen) and are currently housed at the Berlin Museum of Nature.

“The discovery of Ortholasmatinae harvestmen in European amber deposits was surprising. This group is no longer present in Europe today,” stated Dr. Bartel.

“Their relatives now inhabit only East Asia and North and Central America.”

“Clearly, during the Eocene epoch, about 35 million years ago, these harvesters had a much broader distribution across the Northern Hemisphere than they do today.”

Balticolasma Wunderlichi Female from Rovno Amber. Image credit: Bartel et al., doi: 10.4202/app.01283.2025.

Researchers employed high-resolution synchrotron microtomography to meticulously reconstruct the anatomy of Balticolasma Wunderlichi.

The scans revealed a small, flat body, measuring less than 3mm long, adorned with rows of tubercles and a distinctive forward-protruding hood-like structure.

“Some of its morphological features align closely with existing Asian genera,” the scientists observed.

This study underscores the scientific significance of amber deposits in the Baltic and Rovno regions.

The discovery enriches the catalog of known harvestman species preserved in these ambers, offering new insights for reconstructing the evolutionary tree of the group.

“Baltic amber is renowned for its exceptional fossil diversity, frequently revealing species that no longer exist in Europe today,” noted paleontologist Dr. Jason Dunlop from the Berlin Museum of Nature.

“The discovery of a new harvestman species in Ukraine once again illustrates the likely similarities between the harvestman fauna in both regions.”

“With this new addition, the number of harvestman species found in Baltic Sea amber rises to 19, while the number from ancient Ukrainian Rovno amber increases to seven. Six species have been documented in both locations.”

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C. Bartel et al. 2026. 3D analysis of ortholasmatine, first recovered from European Eocene amber. Acta Paleontology Polonica 71 (1): 95-107; doi: 10.4202/app.01283.2025

Source: www.sci.news

500 Million-Year-Old Fossil Discovered as the Oldest Chelate: A Groundbreaking Paleontological Find

Posted on April 2, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Harvard University paleontologists have identified a large predatory arthropod from the mid-Cambrian period in Utah, known as Megachelyserax custoi. Distinguished by its impressive three-pronged chelicerae, this soft-bodied creature pushes back the lineage of spiders, scorpions, horseshoe crabs, and sea spiders by 20 million years, making it the oldest known member of the chelicerate family.

The intricate anatomy of Megachelyserax custoi. Image credit: Masato Hattori/Harvard University.

The fossil of Megachelyserax custoi was unearthed in the Middle Cambrian Wheeler Formation within the House Mountains of Utah.

Measuring just over 8 cm (3.1 inches) in length, this specimen features a preserved head shield and a nine-segmented dorsal exoskeleton.

These anatomical regions exhibit distinct appendages: the head shield contains six pairs of limbs tailored for feeding and sensory functions, while the underbody boasts plate-like respiratory structures akin to modern horseshoe crab gills.

One of its most remarkable characteristics is the chelicerae—pincer-like feeding appendages that are a defining feature of the chelicerate lineage and set spiders apart from insects.

Insects possess sensory antennae as their foremost appendages, while chelicerates are equipped with grasping features, often with venomous capabilities.

Despite the extensive fossil record from the Cambrian era, no other distinct chelicerae-bearing arthropods have been discovered until now.

Harvard paleontologist Rudy LeRochy-Aubril stated, “This fossil confirms that the Cambrian origins of chelicerates were already established 500 million years ago, showcasing anatomical designs seen in modern spiders and horseshoe crabs.”

Prior to this groundbreaking discovery, the earliest known chelidae dated back to the Early Ordovician Fezuata biota in Morocco, approximately 480 million years ago.

The existence of Megachelyserax custoi places it as an early branch in the chelicerate family tree, emerging 20 million years earlier than previously thought. It serves as a crucial transitional species between primitive Cambrian arthropods, which lacked chelicerae, and the more recent horseshoe crab-like chelicerates, referred to as syndiphosphrines.

According to Dr. Javier Ortega Hernández, also from Harvard University, “Megachelyserax custoi illustrates the evolution of chelicerae and the specialization of body regions occurring before the anterior appendages simplified into structures resembling contemporary spider legs.” He added, “This reconciles several competing evolutionary hypotheses, indicating that multiple theories may contain elements of truth.”

This fossil highlights a pivotal phase in the development of the scissor-like body plan, indicating that integral features began evolving shortly after the Cambrian Explosion, a period recognized for its rapid evolutionary advancements.

Dr. Ortega-Hernández remarked, “By the mid-Cambrian era, when evolutionary rates were notably elevated, arthropods exhibiting anatomical complexity similar to modern species were already populating the oceans.” Interestingly, this early development of complex anatomy did not lead to immediate ecological advantages or diversification.

“Chelodons remained relatively obscure for millions of years, overshadowed by simpler groups like trilobites, until they adapted to terrestrial life,” he added.

Dr. Lerosy-Aubril concluded, “This discovery emphasizes that biological innovation is insufficient for evolutionary success; timing and environmental conditions play crucial roles.”

The findings regarding Megachelyserax custoi are detailed in a study published in the journal Nature.

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R. Lerosy-Aubril & J. Ortega-Hernandez. Arthropods with chelicerates reveal a Cambrian origin of chelicerates. Nature published online on April 1, 2026. doi: 10.1038/s41586-026-10284-2

Source: www.sci.news

Newly Discovered Steamer Duck Species in Chile: A Remarkable Avian Find

Posted on March 26, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Researchers have discovered a new species of the Tassiere genus, a group of aggressive and mainly flightless ducks, in the icy waters off the southern coast of Chile.

Beak color patterns in adult specimens: Chiloe steamer duck (A) and Magellanic steamer duck (B). Image credit: Bernabé López-Lanús and Mariano Costa.

Known as Tassiere, this small genus of waterfowl exhibits intriguing ecological traits, including most species being flightless. Their unique name comes from their distinctive movement over water, where they flap their wings like paddles.

These ducks are notably territorial, aggressively defending their habitats from rival species.

According to Argentine ornithologists Bernabe López-Lanús and Mariano Costa, “Natural history of Tassiere is often marked by a mix of certainties and errors throughout time.”

Interestingly, some Tassiere species may include both flying and non-flying individuals within a single population, blurring traditional species classifications.

The researchers employed bioacoustics to analyze the vocalizations of all known steamer duck species. They employed a combination of field recordings, archived databases, and spectrogram analysis.

While some calls, like the quick “click” sounds used for marking territory, are similar across species, others are distinctive. The “raspy growl” contact call revealed a consistent, species-specific acoustic pattern.

“This call is typically produced alone or precedes territorial vocalizations,” the researchers noted.

Male specimens of the newly identified species produced calls with a unique “dome-shaped” frequency profile, which contrasts with the “scalene triangle” pattern seen in closely related species like the Magellan Steam Duck (Taquiere Puteneres).

This new bird, named the Chiloe Steamer Duck (Tassiere Kettle), is endemic to the Chiloe and Aysén regions of Chile. Its range extends around 40 degrees south latitude, from northern Valdivia and the Chiloe regions to the Taitao Peninsula.

While this species frequents protected coastal environments, rich in macroalgae and inland waterways, the Magellanic steamer duck thrives in more exposed, wave-battered coastlines further south.

“Reproductive adults compete for optimal foraging sites, often found within underwater forests of Macrocystis pyrifera (commonly known as kelp),” the researchers stated.

This habitat boasts dense refugia rich in diverse invertebrates, such as amphipods, gastropods, polychaetes, and juvenile fish, which these birds typically access by diving.

This discovery emphasizes the importance of sound in modern taxonomy and reveals hidden biodiversity even within well-studied species, particularly in remote and complex environments.

“Cases like the discovery of Tassiere Kettle demonstrate that bioacoustics is essential for understanding the taxonomy of challenging species, even when sample sizes are limited,” the authors concluded.

Read their research paper published in the journal Audio Lunis.

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Bernabe López-Lanús and Mariano Costa. 2026. A new species of steamer duck (Anseriidae: Tassiere) from the Chiloé region of Chile, confirmed as a distinct taxonomic group from Taquiere Puteneres. Audio Lunis 5:2-65

Source: www.sci.news

Asteroid Discovered: Incredible Speed Rotation of Massive Celestial Body

Posted on March 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Artist’s Depiction of Asteroid 2025 MN45

Credits: NSF–DOE Vera C. Rubin Observatory/NOIRLab/SLAC/AURA/P. Mahlenfeld

Artist’s depiction of asteroid 2025 MN45 — Artist’s Depiction of Asteroid 2025 MN45

Credits: NSF–DOE Vera C. Rubin Observatory/NOIRLab/SLAC/AURA/P. Mahlenfeld

The Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile has made a groundbreaking discovery: the fastest-spinning large asteroid ever observed. This remarkable asteroid rotates approximately every 1.9 minutes, despite being over half a kilometer in diameter, a speed that defies previous expectations.

Lead researcher Dmitri Vavilov and his team from the University of Washington in Seattle identified this asteroid and several other unexpectedly fast rotators during their observations in late April and early May of 2025. The findings were presented at the Lunar and Planetary Science Conference in Texas on March 17th, showcased in this study.

During their observation period, researchers cataloged 76 asteroids with reliably calculated rotation periods, 19 of which were categorized as hyperfast rotators, spinning more than once every 2.2 hours. This figure represents the maximum rotation speed for a “rubble heap” asteroid formed of small rocks loosely bound by gravity.

Typically, asteroids are thought to be composed of debris, so the newfound rapid spin of these celestial bodies was not anticipated. The fastest ultra-high-speed rotating asteroids are known to rotate roughly once every 13 minutes. Initially, the researchers were not looking for asteroids that spun faster than five minutes. Vavilov commented, “I thought it was incredible that they could spin any faster.”

Upon further investigation, the team discovered three asteroids that qualified as ultrafast rotors, with rotation periods of approximately 3.8 minutes, 1.92 minutes, and 1.88 minutes. The record holder, identified as 2025 MN45, measures about 710 meters in diameter and spins faster than any previously documented asteroid larger than 500 meters in diameter.

Given its astonishing speed, this asteroid is unlikely to be a loose conglomerate of debris. Its structure must be significantly more robust than that of typical space rocks. “If this asteroid has a rotational speed of less than 2.2 hours, yet spins faster than 2 minutes,” Vavilov explained, “then even clay wouldn’t suffice to hold it together; it’s likely a single solid mass or primarily composed of metal.”

The Vera C. Rubin Observatory is anticipated to unveil more about rapidly rotating asteroids throughout its planned 10-year survey of the southern sky, enriching our understanding of these intriguing cosmic objects.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

New Herbivorous Dinosaur Species Discovered in South Korea: A Breakthrough in Paleontology

Posted on March 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A newly discovered species of small herbivorous dinosaur has been unveiled from a partial skeleton of a juvenile found in South Korea.

Artist’s interpretation of Durisaurus humini. Image courtesy of Jun Song Yi.

Durisaurus humini, a dinosaur species that thrived in what is now Korea during the mid-Cretaceous period, approximately 113 to 94 million years ago.

This prehistoric species belongs to the Thescelosauridae family, a group of bipedal dinosaurs known to populate East Asia and North America during the Cretaceous.

“The fossil record of dinosaur skeletons in South Korea has historically been limited in abundance and completeness,” stated paleontologist Dr. Jeong-yoon Jeong from the University of Texas at Austin and Chonnam National University.

“Currently, only two dinosaur species from South Korea have been recognized, both characterized by partial posterior skulls from the late Cretaceous period: Coriaceratops fasongensis and the newly identified Collenosaurus bosongensis from the Senso Zaibatsu.”

The fossilized remains of Durisaurus humini were uncovered in 2023 within mid-Cretaceous rocks, specifically in the Nishiroyama layer on the southwestern coast of the Korean Peninsula.

The specimen encompasses a skull, vertebrae, hind limbs, and multiple bezoars (digestive stones).

Advanced X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) allowed researchers to reveal hidden anatomical details of the dinosaur’s interior embedded within the rock.

With a fuzzy coat, the dinosaur was likely about the size of a turkey but still a juvenile. Durisaurus humini may have eventually reached double this size.

Histological analysis suggests that this individual was very young, possibly around 2 years old.

“It would have been incredibly cute, resembling a young lamb,” commented Julia Clark, a paleontologist at the University of Texas at Austin.

Durisaurus humini marks the first new dinosaur species discovered in South Korea in 15 years, and it is the first dinosaur fossil with a partial skull to be found in the country.

“Upon discovering the specimen, we immediately noted some preserved leg bones and vertebrae,” Dr. Jung said.

“We were pleasantly surprised to find parts of the skull and other bones hidden within the rock blocks, creating significant excitement among the team.”

The clusters of gastroliths and their dimensions suggest that Durisaurus humini may have had a more omnivorous diet than previously assumed.

“The morphology of the gastroliths associated with Durisaurus humini and other early neoplacolates may imply a generalized or omnivorous dietary approach for this group,” the researchers noted.

“However, variations in gastric anatomy and bezoar use observed in modern birds indicate a cautious approach is necessary when interpreting dietary habits of non-avian dinosaurs.”

This groundbreaking discovery emphasizes the potential for further skeletal finds in South Korea, particularly at paleontological sites like Afed, where environmental conditions differ from those at locations known for rich trace fossil deposits.

Durisaurus humini suggests a greater diversity of Cretaceous dinosaurs in Korea than currently reflected in the trace fossil record,” the authors concluded.

For detailed insights, refer to their paper, published today in the online journal Fossil Record.

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J. Jung et al. 2026. A new species of dinosaur discovered in Korea and its implications on the diversity of early-diverging neoplates. Fossil Record 29 (1): 87-113; doi: 10.3897/fr.29.178152

Source: www.sci.news

First Fluorescent Ruby-Like Gemstone Discovered on Mars: A Milestone in Martian Geology

Posted on March 18, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

NASA’s Perseverance rover is on a gem hunt

Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU/MSSS

NASA's Perseverance rover exploring Mars — NASA’s Perseverance rover is on a gem hunt

Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU/MSSS

The Perseverance rover has uncovered a precious gemstone among the rocky terrain of Mars. These intriguing gemstone grains are primarily composed of corundum and may be classified as rubies or sapphires based on their specific metal content.

Ann Orilla and her team at Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico first detected traces of corundum using the Perseverance rover’s SuperCam instrument while analyzing a rock formation known as Hampden River. The SuperCam employs various techniques—including two lasers—to ignite the rock’s surface and capture emitted light with dual cameras, confirming the presence of corundum grains matching laboratory ruby measurements.

As the rover traversed Jezero Crater, leaving Hampden River behind, researchers also discovered a pebble named Coffee Cove, which exhibited similar corundum characteristics. Another rock, Smith Harbor, displayed the same mineral presence. Orilla shared these exciting findings at the Lunar and Planetary Science Conference held in Texas on March 16.

These gemstones are unprecedented on Mars and likely did not form as they do on Earth. “Corundum on Earth is typically associated with tectonic activity. This requires specific conditions—low silica and high aluminum content,” Orilla explained. Mars lacks plate tectonics, making the discovery of corundum there particularly surprising. Researchers suggest that Martian corundum likely formed from a meteorite impact that heated and compressed the surrounding dust.

Alan Treiman, a conference participant not affiliated with Orilla’s team, remarked, “I was quite surprised. However, there are aluminum-rich formations on Earth resulting from meteorite impacts.” The findings definitely sparked curiosity and further inquiries.

These corundum grains are extremely tiny—less than 0.2 millimeters in diameter—making visual identification of their type, ruby or sapphire, impossible through images alone.

“I wish I could collect one of these grains for analysis to determine if it’s red. It’s somewhat disappointing to only see this white pebble,” Orilla expressed. Nevertheless, shining the SuperCam laser on it revealed a brilliant glow.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

New Bird Species Discovered in Japan: Ornithologists Unveil Rare Findings

Posted on March 18, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Genetic and acoustic research has revealed that the rare Iijima Warbler (Philoscopus ijimae) comprises two distinct species, including the newly identified crested warbler. Both species are small and face vulnerability in their habitats.

Japanese Warbler (Philoscopus tocharensis) taken in June 2017 on Nakanoshima, Tokara Islands. Image credit: Per Alström / Uppsala University.

The Japanese Warbler is a rare migratory bird native to Japan.

They breed in the Izu and Tokara Islands, located about 1,000 kilometers southeast of Honshu, Japan.

The Tokara population was only identified in Nakanoshima in 1988, with breeding also observed on four nearby islands.

Despite similarities between the two populations, research shows notable differences in their songs, as highlighted by a study led by Per Alström from Uppsala University.

Analyzing song patterns has enabled researchers to distinguish island populations with remarkable accuracy.

Genetic analysis of thousands of genome-wide markers and mitochondrial sequences shows a significant divergence between the two lineages, suggesting a separation period of approximately 2.8 to 3.2 million years.

“This finding underscores the importance of genetic research in recognizing hidden biodiversity, especially during the global biodiversity crisis,” stated Dr. Alström.

Despite potential for seasonal migration bringing them closer, no gene flow has been detected, indicating long-term reproductive isolation.

“Defining the new species is challenging,” Alström remarked. “They appear identical to a Japanese Warbler, but DNA analysis and song differences confirm their classification as distinct species.”

The Izu Islands population has been classified as endangered, while the newly recognized Tokara species is known as the Tokara Leaf Warbler (Philoscopus tocharensis), posing further conservation challenges.

Breeding has only been confirmed on Nakanoshima, with limited sightings across the archipelago.

Genomic studies indicate both species exhibit low genetic diversity, alongside historical population declines linked to their small, isolated nature, though signs of limited inbreeding may indicate a recovery from earlier bottlenecks.

Island species face unique threats, including habitat disturbance from human activities and invasive predators, further stressing fragile populations.

This study emphasizes a significant concern in conservation biology: species that lack formal recognition might receive inadequate protection.

Integrating genomics with traditional taxonomy can aid in identifying these hidden lineages before they go extinct.

“Island species are especially at risk, yet many remain undiscovered,” the researchers concluded. “Our findings reveal how genomics can expose hidden biodiversity and serve as critical indicators of population health.”

The urgency of formally recognizing and assessing the conservation status of these rare species is imperative in an ever-changing world to ensure the protection of overlooked lineages.

This study contributes to comprehensive conservation assessments for passerine birds leveraging genomic data.

The research team’s findings are documented in their paper published in PNAS Nexus.

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Takema Saito et al. 2026. Discovering and protecting enigmatic biodiversity: A case study of previously undescribed endangered bird species in Japan. PNAS Nexus 5(3):pgag037; doi: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgag037

Source: www.sci.news

Newly Discovered Alien Magma Planet Shockingly Close to Earth

Posted on March 17, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers have unveiled a fascinating new exoplanet located just 35 light-years from Earth, perpetually shrouded in a massive ocean of lava.

The exoplanet, designated L 98-59 d, has the potential to challenge current theories of planet formation and introduce an entirely new category of planetary bodies, according to recent study published in Nature Astronomy.

This groundbreaking discovery stems from observations made by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) alongside various ground-based observatories, which revealed several striking characteristics.

Notably, L 98-59 d, measuring 1.6 times the size of Earth, exhibits a remarkably low density and possesses substantial quantities of hydrogen sulfide in its atmosphere.

This positions L 98-59 d outside traditional classifications for similarly sized planets, which are typically categorized as either rocky “gas dwarfs” with hydrogen atmospheres or as “water worlds” characterized by oceans and ice. Clearly, L 98-59 d does not fit into these established categories.

To delve deeper into its true nature, a research team from the University of Oxford utilized computer simulations to rewind the clock approximately 5 billion years, reconstructing the planet’s entire evolutionary history.

Their simulations suggested that L 98-59 d is likely encased in a mantle of molten silicate rock, featuring a global magma ocean extending thousands of kilometers deep. This expansive reservoir enables the storage of significant amounts of sulfur, which accounts for the unusual atmospheric composition detected by JWST.

“This discovery implies that the classifications currently employed by astronomers to describe small planets may be overly simplistic,” stated the lead author, Dr. Harrison Nichols. “What other unique planets await discovery?”

L 98-59 d orbits a red dwarf star with about one-third the mass of the Sun – Photo credit: Mark A. Garlick / markgarlick.com

The findings from this research also have implications for our own planet. “All planets initially form in a molten state. Some, like Earth, cool down, while others, like L 98-59 d, remain molten,” Nichols noted in BBC Science Focus.

“We can leverage these observations to gain insights into the early history of our own planet and the origins of life by studying the common physics that govern these ‘alien’ worlds.”

Looking forward, Nichols believes L 98-59 d could represent the first of many. “This planet may well be the inaugural member of the broader category of magma ocean worlds… ‘magma oceans’ could prove to be quite prevalent.”

Future missions, including the European Space Agency’s Ariel and PLATO missions, will provide further data to determine whether L 98-59 d is an anomaly or the first known representative of a much larger class of worlds.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Newly Discovered Dinosaur Could Change Our Understanding of Tyrannosaurus Origins

Posted on March 12, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A 74-million-year-old leg bone unearthed from a fossil bed in New Mexico Tyrannosaurus rex suggests groundbreaking insights in a recent study published in Scientific Reports.

This discovery supports the theory that Tyrannosaurus did not migrate from Asia, but instead originated in what is now the American Southwest. This shift in understanding implies that the group evolved into giants much earlier than previously believed.

The shin bone, found in the Kirtland Formation of New Mexico and dating to the late Campanian period, measures 96 centimeters (3.1 feet) long—approximately 84 percent the size of the largest known Tyrannosaurus specimen’s tibia.

Based on its measurements, researchers estimate that the animal weighed around 4,700 kg (10,400 lb), making it the largest known Tyrannosaurus of its time—roughly 50 percent heavier than its contemporary rivals.

The researchers propose three possible origins for the bone: it may belong to a particularly large theropod dinosaur, identified as Vista hebersol; it could represent a newly recognized lineage of giant tyrannosaurs; or it might be an early member of the Tyrannosaurini, related to Tyrannosaurus and its closest relatives.

Of these theories, the authors believe the last is the most plausible. Lead researcher Dr. Nicholas Longrich from the University of Bath noted that the bones closely resemble those of Tyrannosaurus.

“This sounds like Tyrannosaurus,” he remarked in an interview with BBC Science Focus. “If these bones were found in the same beds we know Tyrannosaurus were found, no one would doubt it.”

This bone belonged to an animal that predates Tyrannosaurus by 8 to 9 million years – Photo credit: Nick Longrich

This suggests that the Tyrannosaurus lineage may have originated in southern North America, with connections to the giant tyrannosaurus, Tyrannosaurus macraiensis, identified from the slightly younger Hall Lake Formation in New Mexico. Longrich discovered this latest bone while photographing specimens on a museum shelf.

Large-scale clustering of Tyrannosaurus remains in the American Southwest indicates that this lineage likely evolved in that area before dispersing across the continent, millions of years prior to their emergence further north.

Further excavations of the Kirtland Formation may help clarify the ownership of this bone. Longrich expressed that “the potential for new materials to be discovered is very high,” noting that teeth might be a promising avenue for discovery due to their superior preservation compared to bones.

A more complete skeleton would allow researchers to formally name the species and determine if it represents a direct ancestor of Tyrannosaurus or an early relative.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Unveiling the Mystery: The Brightest ‘Whippet’ Space Explosion Ever Discovered

Posted on March 10, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

“Whippet” as envisioned by *New Scientist* picture desk

Credit: NASA/Muratato/Shutterstock/Adobe Stock

Shutterstock Asset ID: 2498498799 - Supernova Explosion at the Center of the Galaxy — “Whippet” as envisioned by *New Scientist* picture desk

Credit: NASA/Muratato/Shutterstock/Adobe Stock

A mysterious burst of bright light in the night sky may indicate a black hole consuming an unusually sparse star.

In 2018, astronomers detected a new kind of cosmic explosion, designated AT2018cow, or “Cow.” This unique flash reached peak brightness in only a few days, significantly faster than typical supernovae.

Initially, the origins of these explosions were unclear. Since the discovery of Cow, several more similar events have been recorded, termed fast blue light transients (FBOTs), yet their origins remain enigmatic.

Recently, Liu Jialian and his research team at Tsinghua University in China propose that the latest cosmic flash, the brightest FBOT to date, results from an exotic star over 30 times the mass of the Sun shedding its outer hydrogen layer and becoming a meal for a black hole.

Named AT 2024wpp, or “Whippet,” this outburst was identified by the Zwicky Transitional Observatory in late 2024 and quickly outshone Cow by approximately tenfold. Liu’s team monitored the explosion using various telescopes, including the Swift X-ray Telescope, collecting data across different wavelengths.

The observed light spectrum indicates the explosion was over six times hotter than the Sun’s surface and expelled plasma at approximately one-fifth the speed of light. Approximately a month after the initial light burst, a previously unobserved X-ray outburst emerged, adding to the mystery of FBOTs.

Liu and his colleagues attribute these observations to a type of rare star known as a Wolf-Rayet star. This star features an exposed core devoid of gas. They argue that Whippet is a consequence of a Wolf-Rayet star being engulfed by a black hole approximately 15 solar masses.

The initial merger triggered the first light burst, while some remaining stellar material eventually spiraled towards the black hole, resulting in the second X-ray burst. As noted by Ashley Chrimes from the European Space Agency, “Of all the proposed explanations, this one is likely the least problematic.”

One of the most compelling elements supporting this theory is that the event appears to originate from young galaxies, where short-lived extreme stars like Wolf-Rayet stars are prevalent. Chrimes adds, “In this environment, such events would be expected, and we’re also observing this late-time bump, which could signal a significant post-merger response. This is indeed promising.”

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Newly Discovered Giant Mosasaurus Species Unveiled in Morocco

Posted on March 7, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have discovered a new giant species of Mosasaurus, named Pluridence Imeraki, derived from Late Cretaceous phosphate deposits in Morocco. This slender-jawed mosasaur may have reached over 9 m (29.5 ft) in length, making it a significant addition to the mosasaur family.

Pluridence Imeraki holotype, enlarged view of the dentary. Scale bar – 10 cm. Image credit: Nicholas R. Longrich & Nour-Eddine Jalil, doi: 10.3390/d18030159.” width=”580″ height=”281″ srcset=”https://cdn.sci.news/images/2026/03/image_14606_1-Pluridens-imelaki.jpg 580w, https://cdn.sci.news/images/2026/03/image_14606_1-Pluridens-imelaki-300×145.jpg 300w” sizes=”(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px”/>

Pluridence Imeraki holotype, enlarged view of the tooth. Scale bar – 10 cm. Image credit: Nicholas R. Longrich & Nour-Eddine Jalil, doi: 10.3390/d18030159.

Pluridence Imeraki existed in the ocean during the late Maastrichtian period of the Cretaceous, roughly 66 to 67 million years ago.

This species is classified under the Halisauridae subfamily, which typically includes smaller mosasaurs. Early members ranged from approximately 4 to 5 m (13 to 16.4 ft) long, such as Halisaurus, which could grow up to about 7.5 m (24.6 ft) in closely related species like Pluridence Serpentis.

At over 9 meters long, Pluridence Imeraki rivals the largest predatory mosasaurs from the region.

Dr. Nicholas Longrich from the University of Bath and Dr. Nour Eddin Jalil from the National Museum of Natural History in Paris remarked, “The Late Cretaceous saw a significant expansion of mosasaurs, a specialized group of large marine predators that dominated the oceans during the final 25 million years of this period in Marrakech.”

“Morocco’s late Maastrichtian Phosphate Formation is home to the most diverse mosasaur assemblage known, featuring what could be the richest marine reptilian fauna globally.”

“In recent years, numerous new mosasaur species have been identified, with over 16 species reported so far.”

“The four primary subfamilies of mosasauridae represented in these phosphates include mosasauridae, plioplatecarpini, tylosauridae, and halisauridae, along with basal mosasauridae like Pachybalanus.”

“While mosasaurids account for most of the species diversity, halisaurids thrived in phosphate-rich areas and were prevalent across Africa during the Cretaceous.”

Pluridence Imeraki, Pluridence Serpentis, and Halisaurus aramburgi from the latest Maastrichtian phosphates in Morocco. Scale bar – 1 m. Image credit: Nicholas R. Longrich & Nour-Eddine Jalil, doi: 10.3390/d18030159.” width=”580″ height=”323″ srcset=”https://cdn.sci.news/images/2026/03/image_14606_2-Pluridens-imelaki.jpg 580w, https://cdn.sci.news/images/2026/03/image_14606_2-Pluridens-imelaki-300×167.jpg 300w, https://cdn.sci.news/images/2026/03/image_14606_2-Pluridens-imelaki-316×176.jpg 316w, https://cdn.sci.news/images/2026/03/image_14606_2-Pluridens-imelaki-195×110.jpg 195w” sizes=”(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px”/>

Relative sizes of Pluridence Imeraki, Pluridence Serpentis, and Halisaurus aramburgi, all extracted from Morocco’s latest Maastrichtian phosphates. Scale bar – 1 m. Image credit: Nicholas R. Longrich & Nour-Eddine Jalil, doi: 10.3390/d18030159.

A 1.25 m (4.1 ft) long skull, along with the lower jaw of Pluridence Imeraki, was unearthed from the phosphate layer of Couche III in Sidi Chennan, Kouribga department, Morocco.

The phosphate layer represents a marine upwelling zone, deposited in a shallow marine embayment along the eastern edge of the Atlantic Ocean from late Maastrichtian to early Eocene times,” noted the paleontologist.

“These formations are part of vast phosphate accumulations that arose along the Tethyan Mountains and the eastern Atlantic margin during the Late Cretaceous and early Paleogene.”

Compared to related species, Pluridence Imeraki likely exhibited a distinct feeding strategy.

Variations in jaw structure, tooth shape, and eye size suggest that this species occupied unique ecological niches in the marine ecosystem at the Cretaceous’s end.

“We discovered that halisaurids were not only more diverse than previously imagined, but also exhibited greater variation in tooth morphology, jaw shape, and body size,” the researchers concluded.

“Instead of merely competing with mosasaurines, halisaurinae experienced a minor adaptive radiation during the Late Cretaceous and served as significant components of low-latitude ecosystems.”

The discovery of Pluridence Imeraki was detailed in a research paper published in this week’s edition of Diversity.

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Nicholas R. Longrich and Nour Eddin Jalil. 2026. A giant halisaurine from the late Maastrichtian of Morocco. Diversity 18(3):159; doi: 10.3390/d18030159

Source: www.sci.news

Rare ‘Lazarus’ Animals Discovered Alive in New Guinea After 7,000 Years of Believed Extinction

Posted on March 6, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Two remarkable species of marsupials, long considered extinct and previously known only from fossil records, have been rediscovered alive in New Guinea. This groundbreaking finding is the result of a collaborative effort involving scientists, indigenous communities, and citizen scientists.

The confirmation of the pygmy longfinger possum and the ring-tailed glider as living specimens marks a significant moment—it’s the first time these creatures have been seen in over 7,000 years. The announcement was made by Bishop Museum, based in Honolulu.

“As both a scientist and conservationist, it’s incredibly fulfilling to confirm their existence. This opens a new chapter in our journey to learn about and protect these fascinating animals,” stated Dr. Christopher Helgen from Bishop Museum.

For the past two years, Helgen and Dr. Tim Flannery of the Australian Museum have been dedicated to verifying the existence of these elusive mammals.

These two animals are categorized as “Lazarus species,” a term for species that re-emerge after being presumed extinct. “The discovery of two Lazarus species thought to be extinct for millennia is truly unprecedented,” Flannery noted in a press release.

Helgen believes this rediscovery underscores the idea that “extinction is avoidable.”

“This discovery offers a message of hope and a testament to second chances,” he added.

These species were initially discovered through fossils by Dr. Ken Aplin, who unearthed a critical tooth during an archaeological dig in western New Guinea in the 1990s.

Helgen’s observation of a photo featuring a gliding ring-tailed possum led to the identification of it as one of Aplin’s previously “extinct” species. Indigenous communities from West Papua’s Tambulo and Maybrat regions provided invaluable assistance by sharing their extensive knowledge about the marsupial’s unique lifestyle, according to a press release.

Recently, scientists confirmed the existence of the pygmy longfinger possum after discovering two preserved specimens at the University of Papua New Guinea.

The survival of the pygmy longfinger possum has been further validated by citizen scientists. Carlos Bokos, a citizen scientist and now co-author of the study, shared a photo of the species on iNaturalist, a global platform for documenting natural science discoveries.

This rewritten content maintains the original HTML structure while enhancing SEO through targeted keywords and phrases related to the discovery of species, collaboration, and conservation efforts.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Ancient Primate Relative Discovered: Southernmost Fossil Unearthed in Colorado

Posted on March 4, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Newly Discovered Tiny Fossil: Purgatorius
This shrew-sized mammal is recognized as the oldest known ancestor of all primates, including humans. Initially believed to be confined to northern North America, its range now extends hundreds of kilometers to the south. This week’s article in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, detailed in a recent paper, challenges conventional theories about the biogeography of early primates and suggests that their diversification occurred rapidly following the end-Cretaceous mass extinction.

Shortly after the Cretaceous mass extinction, the earliest known primates like Purgatorius McKivevelli adapted quickly, specializing in an omnivorous diet that included tree fruits and archaic ungulate mammals. Image credit: Andrei Atutin.

The origins and early biogeographical history of primates is a fascinating yet contentious subject. The oldest primates, Purgatorius, are small tree-dwelling mammals that first emerged in North America around 65.9 million years ago.

Previously, Purgatorius fossils were only found in northern regions such as Montana and Saskatchewan, creating an incomplete understanding of their evolutionary history.

Paleontologist Stephen Chester from the City University of New York and his colleagues describe the southernmost fossil of Purgatorius in their new paper.

The specimens were meticulously recovered from ancient sediments in the Coral Bluffs area of the Denver Basin in Colorado.

“This discovery fills a critical gap in our understanding of the geographic distribution and evolution of our earliest primate ancestors after the dinosaur extinction,” Dr. Chester stated.

The fossils analyzed by the team consist of small teeth that display a distinctive combination of features, indicating they may belong to an earlier, previously unidentified species of Purgatorius.

“The presence of these fossils in Colorado reveals that ancient primates likely originated in the north before expanding southward, rapidly diversifying post-end-Cretaceous mass extinction,” Chester explained.

While scientists previously believed Purgatorius was absent from southern regions during this period, new findings suggest that this assumption was primarily due to limited fossil sampling.

“Our results demonstrate that small fossils can easily be overlooked,” Dr. Chester remarked.

“More intensive searches, especially utilizing screen-cleaning techniques, will likely uncover numerous significant specimens.”

The study further questions long-held assumptions about the habitats of early primates.

“The ankle bone of Purgatorius suggested tree-dwelling characteristics, and we initially suspected its absence from southern Montana was due to extensive forest destruction following an asteroid impact 66 million years ago,” Chester noted.

“Yet, our paleobotanical colleagues indicate that plant recovery in North America was rapid, leading us to believe that Purgatorius likely existed further south—we just haven’t looked hard enough.”

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Stephen GB Chester et al. “Southernmost Origin of Purgatorius: Insights into the Biogeographic History and Diversification of the Oldest Primates.” Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, published online March 2, 2026. doi: 10.1080/02724634.2026.2614024

Source: www.sci.news