Utilizing Genomic Techniques, Coral Farming, and Instagram to Support Nature

A temperature rise of 1°C results in a 10% and 6.4% loss in rice and wheat yields, respectively. Genomic techniques offer hope for developing more resistant fruits and vegetables. For instance, scientists have pinpointed a gene called AtGRXS17 in the Arabidopsis plant, which enables the plant to withstand drought. Modified plants demonstrated resilience when introduced into tomatoes and subjected to a ten-day water withholding period. In another instance, using the CRISPR/Cas method to modify a single gene called FaPG1 resulted in strawberries with improved firmness and water retention. In February 2024, the market saw the introduction of the first edited crop – a purple tomato containing snapdragon genes.

Researchers at Derby University utilized tanks with water temperatures matching those of a coral reef and lighting mimicking the sun and moon cycles to induce over 50 types of coral to spawn throughout the year, rather than during a specific month as in nature. The team is currently applying probiotics to small porcelain plugs (used to house larvae) to enhance the survival of young corals.

In addition, the Jackson Hole Travel & Tourism Board in Wyoming created a new Instagram filter to ensure photographers have safe encounters with their subjects. The Selfie Control tool includes bison, bear, elk, deer, black bear, and grizzly bear. These animals inhabit Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, as well as the surrounding wilderness areas. The filter provides guidance on the appropriate distance to maintain when approaching these animals.