The Sciences
Multiple "Promiscuous" Gene Transfers Found to Occur in Complex Cells
Multiple independent gene transfers are now documented to occur in the evolutionary history of eukaryotic life, not just among prokaryotes
"fungus"
Ecology
Fungus-Chomping Micro Predators Could Protect Amphibians from Decimating Skin Disease
Microbes that thrive in lakes happily consume the pandemic fungus that has caused declines in more than half the planet’s amphibian species
Bat-Killing Fungus Now Found in 25 U.S. States
The news for bats in the U.S. keeps getting worse. Last week conservation officials announced that the bat-killing white-nose syndrome (WNS) has been found in Michigan and Wisconsin.
Sunday Species Snapshot: Panamanian Golden Frog
These tiny, brightly colored amphibians pack a potent neurotoxin on their skin. That toxin protected them from predators, but it won’t save them from extinction.
Fire Salamanders in the Netherlands Wiped Out by Newly Discovered Fungus
Five years ago the Netherlands was home to a small but healthy population of fire salamanders (Salamandra salamandra terrestris). That is no longer the case.
Evolution
Rare Naked Ladies Crocus Infected with Even Rarer Smutty Fungus
Who knew botany and mycology could be so naughty? Naked ladies and smut have come to light in the U.K., but not in the way you might think.
