Male pufferfish embrace their inner artist when trying to catch the eye of a female pufferfish. Off the coast of Japan, males of the species create “fantastical” geometric circular patterns on the seafloor to attract a mate. The pufferfish uses his tail, fins, and body to create the patterns by swimming in circles, and then he adds peaks and valleys by swimming across radially. Shells and coral fragments serve as the finishing touches, dotting the peaks of the pattern. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
