climate change

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

Caitlin Dempsey

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

Using Seals to Track Ocean Currents

Caitlin Dempsey

Tagging seals with sensors reveals vital data on Antarctic ocean currents, heat transport, and marine ecosystems.

A giant sequoia tree at Yosemite National Park's Mariposa Grove of Big Trees.

Geography of Giant Sequoias

Elizabeth Borneman

Giant sequoias are one of the longest lived tree species, with the oldest giant sequoia living an estimated 3,400 years.

A lizard clinging upright on a steep rock with dried grass behind it.

Urbanization is Shortening the Legs of Western Fence Lizards

Caitlin Dempsey

Western fence lizards have adapted to manmade surfaces in urban areas by developing shorter limbs and toes.

The color of water is a by product of how light is absorbed. Mangrove islands bespeckle the bay in upper Lostman's River. Photo: Paul Nelson, U.S. Geological Survey. Public domain.

How Mapping Mangrove Species Can Help With Coastal Erosion Mitigation

Mark Altaweel

Species-specific mangrove maps aid conservation by targeting protection efforts and resources against storm surges and coastal erosion.

12330 Next