It is essential to remember that we share our world with a diverse range of species, each with its unique beauty and value. While some may inspire awe in us, others may not have an apparent aesthetic appeal. However, every species has a crucial role to play in maintaining the balance of our ecosystem. By recognizing and appreciating the value of all living beings, regardless of their appearance, we can contribute to the preservation of our planet's biodiversity.

Scientists Use Lice Nits to Find More About Ancient Mummies and Their Lifestyle

Unanimous consensus: Ew, NO! But, wait. Human DNA has been retrieved by scientists from the ‘cement’ that head lice produce to attach their eggs to hair, which could potentially offer a new opportunity for delving into the past. Nits are frequently found on the hair and clothing of well-preserved and mummified humans. Consequently, extracting DNA from the cement created by lice is a practical solution that can maintain the integrity of the specimen for a longer duration. Sit back and read more here.

The Deadly and Intriguing World of the Assassin Bug

Assassin bugs, an enigmatic family with over 7,000 species, are nature's covert predators. Their elusive hunting methods involve a specialised rostrum, injecting prey with a potent cocktail. In a kaleidoscope of sizes and hues, these bugs thrive in habitats spanning from lush rainforests to arid deserts. While some play a vital role in pest control, others wield a subtle threat, harbouring the potential to transmit mysterious diseases to humans. In the intricate dance of ecology, assassin bugs hold secrets that blur the line between fascination and caution. Intrigued?

It's official then! Mosquitoes do like biting some people over others

Do you always seem to be the target for mosquitoes when you're out enjoying nature? Have your family members ever doubted your claims that you're being bitten more than anyone else? Well, now you can confidently prove them wrong with the scientific evidence provided by G. Mandela Fernandez-Grandon and colleagues in their paper published in PLoS One. It's time to show everyone that you were right all along about mosquitoes' biting preferences. 

If you enjoyed reading this newsletter, do visit Coffee Table Science for more interesting stories.

Until next time,
Ameya