Human Foxp2 gene turns mice into fast-learners

Scientists have spliced a key human brain gene into mice, that demonstrated accelerated learning as a result.  In the first study designed to assess how partially 'humanising' brains of a different species affects key cognitive functions, scientists report that mice carrying Foxp2 - a human gene associated with language - learned new ways to find food in mazes faster than normal mice.

Io spouts “curtains of fire” in series of eruptions

Three huge volcanic eruptions rocked Jupiter’s moon Io within two weeks last August.  The events are leading scientists to speculate that these outbursts, which can send material hundreds of kilometres above the surface, might be much more common than previously thought.

Tur­tles use vo­cal calls to stick to­geth­er and to care for young

Giant South American river turtles use several kinds of calls to coordinate their activities, including one call from females to their hatchlings in what is the first instance of recorded parental care in turtles.

Semiotic sophistication seen in trout-eel hunting partnership

Coral trout and moray eel collaborate with deadly effectiveness in hunting. Now, researchers have studied their technique and concluded that the trout’s collaborative skills rival those of the chimpanzee.

Spinosaurus aegyptiacus: semiaquatic and larger than T. rex

A dinosaur discovered over a century ago turns out to have probably been “semiaquatic”— the only known dinosaur adapted for living and hunting in a water environment.  New fossils of the huge predator reveal it adapted to life in the water some 95 million years ago, providing the strongest evidence to date of a dinosaur able to live and hunt in an aquatic environment.

The giant, sail-backed Spinosaurus was a formidable aquatic predator built for swimming and hunting in water.

Parrot found to “teach” tool use to others

Goffin’s cockatoos, a type of parrot, can not only make and use tools but also teach others to do the same.

Game theory demonstrated in Gouldian finches

A long-standing theory that excessive conflict is bad for society has been demonstrated in an animal population.  Aggressive and peaceful Gouldian finches can live together as long as the aggressors are not too successful, suggest the findings which are based on game theory.

Laniakea: galactic supercluster

Astronomers have discovered that the Milky Way galaxy is part of a supercluster which they've named Laniakea ('immense heaven').

Neanderthal 'hashtag' carving found in cave

The hashtag may be a symbol of modern life, but its origins can be traced back to Neanderthal carvings.  Scientists have discovered the first evidence of artwork by this species etched into the walls of a cave in Gibraltar.  In recent years researchers have discovered that Neanderthals buried their dead, adorned themselves with black and red pigments, wore shell and feather jewelry and cared for the elderly and infirm, all evidence of complex thought.  But until now, no unambiguously Neanderthal art was ever found.