Biodiversity

Things related to the web of life; ecology; wildlife; endangered species

"Helping Bats Hold On"

The white-nose syndrome that is decimating bat populations from New Brunswick to Oklahoma -- and spreading -- is "the most devastating wildlife disease in recorded history," according to one biologist. Despite a growing understanding of the complex fungal disease process, scientists are still looking for answers that will help bats survive.

Janet Raloff reports for Science News in the issue cover-dated September 10, 2011.

Source: Science News, 08/29/2011

"Monsanto Corn Plant Losing Bug Resistance"

"Widely grown corn plants that Monsanto Co. genetically modified to thwart a voracious bug are falling prey to that very pest in a few Iowa fields, the first time a major Midwest scourge has developed resistance to a genetically modified crop."

"The discovery raises concerns that the way some farmers are using biotech crops could spawn superbugs.

Source: Wall St. Journal, 08/29/2011

"Rhino Horns Put Europe's Museums on Thieves' Must-Visit List"

A rash of rhino horn thefts, "as many as 30 so far this year, have been reported in museums, galleries, antiques dealerships, auction houses and homes across Europe as criminals try to feed a growing demand in China and other Asian countries, where medicine made from ground rhino horns is believed to act as an aphrodisiac and to cure cancer and other diseases."

Source: NY Times, 08/26/2011

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