The classic example of ecology shaping evolution is of the peppered moth. During the Industrial Revolution in 18th century England white peppered moths were only too visible to their predators on soot-covered trees. The moths were almost on their way to extinction when natural selection found its voice. Curtains dropped over the white ones and in came the black-peppered moths. But there are two sides to the coin, biologists realize now.
“For humans, the principal source of selenium is meat, and in Mexico it is not included in daily meals, as a consequence of poverty. Moreover, abattoir animals are deficient in this element. For this reason our research team considers that Mexican people probably suffer from a chronic Se deficiency,” said Jorge Tórtora-Pérez, from the School of Advanced Studies Cuautitlán- UNAM in México.
At any moment there is a flock of millions of insects flitting around. The insects do not twitter gaily like the birds flying across. They cannot be seen. Several are crop pests covering thousands of kilometres to make their way towards an unsuspecting field, aided by strong winds and a highly efficient inbuilt compass.
What makes one prone to heart diseases and joint pain in malaria can be understood by applying basic fluid dynamics to blood flow—the same concept works on water pipes.
In 1997, in response to a recommendation of inquiry report into the separation of Australian aboriginal children, the country’s government announced that the National Library in Canberra would collect testimonies from such children.
An engraver fired by Chile’s mint for an error that led to the release of 1.5 million coins featuring the name of the country as Chie said his bosses covered up the mistake. The error showed up on Chilean 50-peso pieces in 2009.
