Whether human, animal, or algae – all living things follow an internal rhythm oriented towards light. Exactly how certain proteins control this day-night rhythm was previously unclear. An international research team led by Professor Dr. Lars-Oliver Essen from Philipps University of Marburg, with the participation of National Taiwan University (NTU), has now deciphered for the first time how so-called… Read more »
Light pollution, which illuminates the night sky as skyglow, promotes the growth of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) and stimulates nutrient cycling in lakes. This is shown in a recent study by the Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB), which is part of the largest field experiment to date on the effects of light pollution on lakes. Everyone is familiar with it: the light dome, which is clearly visible from afar, indicating where cities are brightly lit at night… Read more »
A recent study documents the dramatic effects of artificial nighttime lighting on insects. Researchers examined the midge species Chironomus riparius and found that light pollution causes profound changes in 1.564 genes of the larvae. The consequences are alarming: delayed development, increased oxidative stress, and drastically reduced reproductive capacity. In the journal "Environmental Pollution," the researchers warn of far-reaching ecological consequences… Read more »
