Tag

Terrestrial Ecosystems

All articles tagged with #terrestrial ecosystems

Plastic Pollution Entraps Ants, Study Finds
environment2 years ago

Plastic Pollution Entraps Ants, Study Finds

Scientists have discovered ants becoming entangled in plastic fibers for the first time, marking a new milestone in the planet's plastic pollution problem. The ants were found on the Spanish island of La Palma, and lab tests confirmed that two of the fibers were made of plastic. The impact and extent of this phenomenon are not yet fully understood, but it highlights the need for further research on the interaction between plastics and terrestrial insect species. Plastic pollution has been found in various natural environments worldwide and is known to have a detrimental effect on marine life. The study is published in the journal Ecological Entomology.

Spiders Transmit Mercury Contamination to Land Animals
environment2 years ago

Spiders Transmit Mercury Contamination to Land Animals

Spiders living near water bodies can transfer mercury contamination from aquatic environments to land animals, according to a study by the U.S. Geological Survey. The research found that spiders feeding on insects from mercury-contaminated waters can accumulate the hazardous metal and pass it on to land animals higher up the food chain. The study highlights the need to monitor terrestrial animals that consume aquatic insects emerging from contaminated waters. Mercury contamination is a significant environmental issue that can have harmful effects on both humans and wildlife. Efforts to reduce mercury contamination include stricter regulations on emissions and responsible disposal of mercury-containing products.