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Desert Dust Triggers Photoplankton Blooms in the Ocean

Saharan dust carries vital nutrients across oceans, triggering phytoplankton blooms that boost marine productivity and influence global carbon cycles.

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Taken at about 30,000 feet (9 kilometers) over eastern Washington, the smoke plume (gray) feeds the pyrocumulonimbus cloud (white). Photo: David Peterson (U.S. Naval Research Laboratory), public domain, August 8, 2019.

Understanding the Increase in PyroCbs: Wildfire Thunderstorms

The phenomenon of fire-triggered thunderstorms is called pyroCbs, which is short for pyrocumulonimbus clouds.

Fire Islands is an Atlantic Ocean barrier island off the southern shore of Long Island, New York. Photo: Jennifer Miselis, USGS. Public domain.

Barrier Islands in the United States

Barrier islands are narrow landforms running parallel to coastlines, protecting shores from storms and erosion while supporting unique ecosystems.

Side by side photos of a great egret (left) and American white pelican (right).

Birds in Flight: Great Egret Versus American White Pelican

Learn how to tell the difference between a great egret and an American white pelican in flight by examining their size, beaks, wings, and flight patterns.

A chestnut-backed chickadee on a redwood branch.

Number of “Dees” in a Chickadee’s Alarm Call is Related to the Danger Level of Nearby Predators

The number of “dees” in a chickadee’s alarm call correlates with the size and threat level of the predator.

A black and white dragonfly resting on a blade of grass.

Tracking Mercury With Dragonflies

Research on mercury levels in dragonfly larvae from 73 U.S. national parks reveals insights into mercury deposition patterns.

Human Geography

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The Diomedes Islands mark the closest point between Russia and the United States.

These Two Countries are Separated by 2.4 Miles and 21 Hours

There exists a geographic point where two of the largest countries in the world are only separated by a 2.4 miles but are 21 hours apart.

A small child riding a kids red play scooter on a sidewalk.

Using GIS to Design Child-Friendly Cities

Using GIS, cities can design child-friendly pedestrian pathways that prioritize children’s interests and safety, promoting urban living and sustainability.