Biology

Most of us don't give much thought to caterpillars, but nature is full of species with incredible creativity. From transparent skin to skull-like masks, these creatures use amazing survival strategies to avoid becoming a meal for birds and insects.

A new study has discovered that dozens of animal species are capable of breaking down PHA, a type of natural plastic produced by bacteria. Researchers estimate that this ability has existed for hundreds of millions of years and may change the understanding of the carbon cycle in nature.

The African rodents live in colonies similar to a beehive, with a queen and workers. How and why did such a lifestyle evolve in a species of mammals?

Trying to catch a fly in flight is an almost impossible task. This tiny insect is pre-programmed for rapid escape thanks to a combination of specialized vision, high-speed neural processing, and advanced balance organs.

A new genetic analysis of the liquid erupting from the depths of the glacier has revealed surprising findings that are stirring the scientific community. Researchers discovered that the mysterious phenomenon hides an ancient secret that has survived in extreme conditions in total darkness.

A freshwater snail living in dark underground caves has been named after a figure from Chinese mythology. This first-of-its-kind discovery highlights the urgent need for extensive cave surveys to protect such vulnerable species.

The Amazon rainforest hides countless tiny and invisible creatures. Now, an innovative and unprecedented scientific project in Brazil is embarking on a comprehensive journey to count and identify all types of insects living in the forest — from the ground to the highest treetops.

After centuries of research focusing on male birds, scientists are now exploring female song, revealing that it is more common and complex than previously thought. The historical bias, driven by a male-dominated field and a focus on northern migratory species, is being challenged as more women enter ornithology.

Once a week, the "Checking the Myth" column deals with famous historical distortions, why they were created, and how they affect us to this day. This week: Does moss grow in a specific direction, thereby allowing for spatial orientation? Not in the middle of the forest.