Picture an octopus that could be deadly to humans. You’re probably thinking of a large creature, and not one that is the size of your palm.But indeed, that’s the blue-ringed octopus, one of several shallow-dwelling species harboring a neurotoxin in its saliva with the capability of paralyzing muscles – an effect that could, if left unaddressed, lead to fatal consequences. There might be around 10 species of these tiny octopuses in the Hapalochlaena genus, but the more well-known examples i ...read more
When a person dies of unknown causes, modern forensic pathologists might conduct a complete or partial autopsy. In some situations, they might use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT scan) to help them see deep into the body.Although imaging technology is new for forensic pathologists, the process of conducting an autopsy to understand how a person died is an ancient practice that dates back thousands of years.What Is an Autopsy?An autopsy is an internal and external exam ...read more
Researchers in England uncovered the skeletal remains of 37 Bronze Age individuals, and further analysis indicated that not only were they violently murdered, but their remains may have also been consumed. This discovery could shed light on a darker side of early human history, according to the study published in the journal Antiquity.The remains were initially found at the Bronze Age archeological site Charterhouse Warren, Somerset, in the 1970s. Over 3,000 bones were mixed together at the bott ...read more
Start typing “dog shares...” into a search engine and instant cuteness results. In one clip, a yellow Labrador brings its toys to the fence to share with the neighbor dog.The clips are charming, but are the animals actually sharing? Is it a behavior that animals even know? Through observation, scientists have found examples of sharing in the animal world. Often, it’s based on reciprocity, which means there could be a future expectation the giver will one day be the receiver. Animals May ...read more
Beluga whales are the only whales, other than narwhals, a closely related species, that live exclusively in arctic and subarctic waters. Like many other arctic animals, belugas are white. In fact, the word ‘beluga’ comes from ‘bielo,’ the Russian word for white. But belugas aren’t born white, notes Ragen Davey, Alaska marine representative for the conservation group Defenders of Wildlife. Calves are dark gray and gradually get lighter as they age, becoming totally white upon reaching ...read more
Author Vishay SinghPosted on Categories Discover Magazine