Science news

After a remarkable 28-year campaign, Tasmania's fisheries service has successfully eliminated invasive common carp from Lake Sorell and Lake Crescent. This effort has seen the removal of over 49,000 harmful fish, leading to clearer waters and the revival of native plant life in marsh areas. The resurgence of wild brown trout has also enhanced recreational fishing opportunities for anglers, proving that large lakes can recover from invasive species.

A significant conservation initiative has successfully reinstated native trout species across more than 120 miles of streams by eliminating non-native predators and restoring habitats in two states. The reintroduction of the Rio Grande cutthroat trout has led to the establishment of a self-sustaining population, averting the need for federal endangered species status. This successful strategy serves as a blueprint for other western states aiming to restore native fish populations.

A vigorous initiative employing commercial nets and angler incentives has successfully diminished the population of invasive lake trout. This management program has fostered a remarkable resurgence of native species such as rainbow trout and sockeye salmon. Hydroacoustic assessments revealed kokanee densities that haven't been observed since the 1970s. The rebound of kokanee has instigated beneficial shifts throughout the broader ecosystem.

The HCG cancer centre in Bengaluru has introduced Karnataka's pioneering Elekta Unity MR-Linac system, a cutting-edge advancement in cancer treatment. This sophisticated technology integrates MRI visualization with radiation therapy, allowing physicians to observe tumors and tailor treatment plans daily. Particularly for prostate cancer patients, this image-guided technique ensures enhanced treatment precision, representing a monumental leap forward in radiation oncology within the region.

Innovators from Kochi have crafted a groundbreaking technology for mud-crab farming, effectively tackling issues such as cannibalism and the requirement for brackish water. Their novel system enables farming in inland regions, broadening geographical opportunities. With a generous ₹10 lakh grant awarded for their remarkable achievement, this technology opens up premium crab farming to a wider community of farmers.

Astronaut Donald Pettit has unveiled breathtaking photographs of the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela, captured from the International Space Station. These stunning images showcase the vibrant Hindu pilgrimage, shimmering against the vast darkness of space. The event, held in Prayagraj, attracted millions for ritual bathing, marking it as one of the largest gatherings in human history. This expedition also contributed to ongoing scientific research efforts.

Recent discoveries in India have unveiled biological traces that date back approximately 3.5 billion years, indicating a significantly ancient origin of life on Earth. Researchers have confirmed the presence of photosynthetic activity and intricate metabolic processes within these samples, which originated from environments close to underwater hydrothermal vents. This remarkable finding represents the oldest known biological materials found in rock formations.

In a remarkable milestone for space research, Professor Annapurni Subramaniam has been awarded the COSPAR Vikram Sarabhai Medal for 2026, marking her as the first Indian woman to receive this prestigious honor. This award recognizes her invaluable contributions to space research within developing nations. Her extensive expertise, particularly in pioneering space observatories, highlights how her work has elevated Indian space astronomy to new heights.