All Stories

Plants

Scientists Say: Phloem

Phloem is tissue that delivers food, made in leaves during photosynthesis, to the rest of a plant.

Animals

Bloodthirsty vampire bats prefer drinking with friends

Vampire bats were known to bond with others in their roost. Now, research suggests bonded bats often drink blood from animals together.

Brain

Ask the experts: How to create a top-notch science fair project

Five finalists in the Broadcom MASTERS middle-school competition reveal how they created nationally competitive projects.

Planets

Pluto is no longer a planet — or is it?

In the 15 years since Pluto lost its status as a planet, some scientists continue to use whatever definition works best for them.

Animals

Bacteria make ‘spider silk’ that’s stronger than steel

Part spider silk, the material is better than what some spiders make. Researchers think it might make the basis for surgical threads or unusually strong fabrics.

Animals

Let’s learn about the creatures of Halloween

Check out the real-life vampires and zombies of the animal kingdom, and learn why people think ghosts and mummy curses are real.

Animals

Cockatoos learn from each other how to open garbage bins

The bin-opening behavior is an example of social learning. It’s also the basis of a foraging culture. Learn more in this web comic.

Brain

It doesn’t take a concussion for head hits to harm young brains

Most head impacts while playing football do not cause concussions. Yet even lesser impacts take a toll in young athletes, scans of their brains show.

Animals

Scientists Say: Marsupial

These mammals are known for riding around in a pouch on their mother’s belly, where they continue developing after they’re born.

Animals

Racism lurks in many plant and animal names. That’s now changing

Racist legacies linger in everyday lingo for birds, plants and other organisms. Some scientists now see the chance to change that.

Health & Medicine

Gender-affirming care improves the mental health of transgender youth

Several states have tried to restrict access to gender-affirming health care for transgender youth. That goes against medical guidelines.

Earth

Here’s how ice needles can sculpt natural rock art

Striking stone patterns adorn remote cold landscapes the world over. The recipe for these adornments: Freeze, thaw, repeat.