DNA barcoding helps discover new species

through genetic analysis, scientists have established that the clouded leopard found on Borneo island is a new species--Neofelis diardi--of cat. Earlier, the species was thought to belong to a group of leopards found in mainland south-east Asia. According to the us National Cancer Institute, which carried out the genetic analysis, dna tests highlighted around 40 differences between the species.

Forests in peril in Amazon rainforests

Many species of trees in the Amazon rainforests, and animals that depend on them are disappearing more rapidly than previously thought, an international research team reported recently.

Medicinal plant rediscovered in Arunachal Pradesh

an endangered medicinal plant has been rediscovered in Arunachal Pradesh after about a century. Scientists of the Botanical Survey of India came upon the Begonia tessaricarpa in the Ligu village of Upper Subansiri district while cataloguing the flora of the district.

Reigning greens

Satellite observations suggest vegetation encourages rainfall in Africa. A study led by P M Cox, a scientist with UK's Natural Environment Research Council, says vegetation accounts for around 30 per cent of annual rainfall variation in Africa's Sahel region.

Neelakurinji blooms in the Nilgiris

-- (Credit: Praveen Shankar`)Mass-flowering of neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana) is at its climax in the vast tracts of the southern Western Ghats. The little flower with no fragrance blooms once every 12 years. The endangered shrub is found in the shola grasslands, at an altitude of over 1,500 metres. The Nilgiris, the Palani hills and the high ranges around Munnar are noted for this rare variety.

Imitating leaf cells to solve energy crisis

scientists are trying to mimic a leaf cell using synthetic molecules -- an approach that can help solve the impending energy crisis.

Bee species are missing, pollination on high risk

Bytes

hiv origin: The origin of HIV that causes AIDS has been found in wild chimpanzees living in southern Cameroon, according to an international team of scientists. A virus called SIVcpz (Simian Immunodeficiency Virus from chimps) was thought to be the source, but had only been found in a few captive animals. Now, a natural reservoir of SIVcpz in animals living in the wild has been identified.

Climate change causes species to change habitats

climate change is forcing plants and animals away from their native habitats to more congenial ones. A recent survey of plants in the uk found that species favouring higher temperature like orchids and ferns that used to be found in southern parts of the country are now flourishing in the north, too.

Checking in Quietly

The fruit the humble eat in India is probably made of better stuff than those eaten by the high and mighty. It seems clear, on the evidence, that exotic imported fruit could have a greater and more varied pesticide content that those grown in our backyards.