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Blacktip reef sharks in French Polynesia are experiencing adverse effects on their health due to frequent exposure to low-quality food scraps from tourists. Reports indicate that these sharks, commonly found in the waters around Mo’orea, are being fed everything from frozen squid to human leftovers. This feeding practice has led to significant changes in their metabolism, movement, and reproductive patterns. Concerns have been raised regarding the long-term consequences on the species, classified as “vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Shark Feeding Practices Impact Metabolism

According to a study published in Animal Conservation, research conducted by marine behavioural ecologist Johann Mourier at the University of Montpellier and his team examined the metabolic and reproductive changes in these sharks. Over a three-year period, blood samples from 117 blacktip reef sharks across 17 sites—five of which were known for frequent tourist-driven feeding—were analysed. The results indicated that sharks at feeding sites displayed lower red blood cell levels, a marker of overall health. Blood glucose levels in females were also found to be lower, suggesting that the scraps provided lacked adequate nutritional value compared to their natural diet.

Reproductive Changes Observed in Feeding Site Sharks

Data from the study also highlighted notable shifts in reproductive hormone levels. Males at feeding sites exhibited increased testosterone levels, potentially due to heightened competition over food. Female sharks at non-feeding sites were consistently pregnant and exhibited triple the estrogen levels compared to those at feeding locations, where not all females carried pups. Scientists suggest that an unpredictable and nutritionally insufficient diet may be impacting reproductive success, ultimately affecting population sustainability.

Calls for Better Regulation of Shark Feeding

In an interview with Science News, Natascha Wosnick, a biologist at the Cape Eleuthera Institute, stated that unregulated shark feeding can alter natural behaviour and compromise welfare. Concerns extend beyond Mo’orea, as other species, such as nurse sharks in the Bahamas, may face similar risks due to increased energy expenditure linked to human-provided food. Experts suggest implementing regulations on the types of food offered to sharks, particularly during breeding seasons, to mitigate the negative impact on their health and reproduction.

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Oppo Find N5, Find X8 Ultra Tipped to Feature Telephoto Macro Lens



iQOO Neo 10R to Launch in India in an Exclusive Dual-Tone Colourway

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SpaceX Crew-10 Launches to ISS, Relieving Stranded NASA Starliner Crew

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SpaceX has launched the Crew-10 mission from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, sending four astronauts to the ISS. The team will replace Crew-9 members, two of whom have been stranded since June due to Boeing’s Starliner delays. The Falcon 9 rocket lifted off successfully on March 14, and Crew-10 is expected to dock with the ISS in about 28 hours. The six-month mission…

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2,200-Year-Old Chinese Burial Uncovers Woman with Toxic Red-Stained Teeth

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2,200-Year-Old Chinese Burial Uncovers Woman with Toxic Red-Stained Teeth

A burial site in northwestern China has revealed a woman’s remains with an unusual feature—her teeth were painted with cinnabar, a toxic red mineral composed of mercury and sulfur. The grave, dated between 2,200 and 2,050 years ago, was found in Turpan City, Xinjiang, along a major Silk Road trade route. Archaeologists identified the remains as belonging to the Gushi people, known for their equestrian culture. The significance of cinnabar-stained teeth in ancient societies has not been previously documented.

First Recorded Case of Cinnabar on Teeth

According to a study published in Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences, this is the first known instance of cinnabar being applied to human teeth. Qian Wang, professor of biomedical sciences at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, told Live Science that no other ancient burial worldwide has exhibited this practice. The analysis of the red pigment, conducted through spectroscopy methods, confirmed the presence of cinnabar mixed with an animal protein, possibly egg yolk or egg white, to facilitate application.

Possible Cultural and Ritualistic Significance

The purpose behind the red pigment remains unclear. Experts suggest connections to cosmetic practices, social status, or shamanistic rituals. Other burials in the region have shown evidence of facial paintings and tattoos, indicating the possibility of broader body adornment traditions. The Xinjiang region does not have natural cinnabar deposits, implying that the substance was imported, possibly from West Asia, Europe, or other parts of China.

Health Risks of Cinnabar Exposure

Li Sun, professor of geology at Collin College, noted the potential health risks associated with cinnabar use. Mercury exposure is linked to neurological damage, yet no traces of mercury poisoning were detected in the woman’s bones. The frequency and duration of exposure remain uncertain.

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Smallest Galaxy Ever Found: Andromeda XXXV Defies Cosmic Evolution Models



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Smallest Galaxy Ever Found: Andromeda XXXV Defies Cosmic Evolution Models

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Smallest Galaxy Ever Found: Andromeda XXXV Defies Cosmic Evolution Models

Astronomers have identified the smallest and faintest galaxy ever observed, located approximately 3 million light-years away. This discovery challenges existing theories on galaxy formation, as such tiny galaxies were expected to have been destroyed in the intense heat and density of the early universe. Named Andromeda XXXV, this newly identified galaxy is part of a group of small satellite galaxies orbiting Andromeda. Researchers suggest that its survival could reshape the understanding of cosmic evolution and the conditions that allowed small galaxies to persist.

Characteristics of Andromeda XXXV

According to the study published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, Andromeda XXXV is significantly smaller than other known dwarf galaxies, measuring about 1,000 light-years across at its longest axis. Researchers used data from multiple astronomical surveys and observations from the Hubble Space Telescope to confirm its existence. Reportedly, Eric Bell, a professor at the University of Michigan, described it as “a fully functional galaxy, but about a millionth the size of the Milky Way.” Scientists were surprised by its ability to retain the necessary conditions for star formation despite its size.

The Challenge of Detecting Dwarf Galaxies

Dwarf galaxies, though common, remain difficult to detect due to their faint nature. The Milky Way has several known satellite galaxies, but identifying similar structures around Andromeda has been challenging. Previously discovered dwarf galaxies in that region were larger and brighter, aligning with existing models. Andromeda XXXV, however, is distinct because of its prolonged star formation period. According to lead researcher Marcos Arias, some similar-sized galaxies in Andromeda formed stars up to 6 billion years ago, while most of the Milky Way’s satellite galaxies stopped star formation around 10 billion years ago.

Implications for Galaxy Formation Theories

Scientists are now investigating why Andromeda XXXV was not affected by extreme conditions that disrupted other small galaxies. Bell explained that this period in the universe was “like a vat of boiling oil,” expected to strip galaxies of gas needed for star formation. The survival of Andromeda XXXV suggests that current theories about galaxy formation and evolution may need reevaluation. Further studies and upcoming space missions could provide more insights into how galaxies like Andromeda XXXV persisted despite harsh cosmic conditions.

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