WTF Fun Fact 13583 – Upside-Down Jellyfish

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Imagine wandering through a tranquil lagoon and spotting a group of upside-down jellyfish resting with their bell against the seafloor.

Unlike most of their free-swimming counterparts, these jellyfish are often found lounging, with their oral arms extending towards the sun. But why such an odd pose?

Why are upside-down jellyfish upside-down?

The upside-down posture serves a dual purpose. Firstly, this position facilitates the pulsing movement of their bell, pushing water over the jellyfish’s body, ensuring a steady flow of oxygen and food. Secondly, the upward-facing tentacles benefit from the sunlight, which assists the photosynthetic algae, zooxanthellae, residing in the jellyfish tissue. This unique position allows them to gain energy from both their food and the sun!

Upside-down jellyfish love to hang out in the sunlit, shallow waters of coastal regions, especially around areas bustling with mangroves. Sunlight plays a pivotal role in their survival as it powers the photosynthetic algae inside them. Think of them like underwater solar panels!

In Australia, they are predominantly spotted in the tropical territories, ranging from Yampi Sound in Western Australia to Queensland’s Gold Coast. However, there’s a twist: these jellies have made surprise appearances in temperate coastal lakes of New South Wales, and even in the unusually warm waters around a powerplant in Adelaide.

The diet and life cycle of the upside-down jellyfish

When it comes to diet, these jellyfish are both photosynthetic and predatory. The zooxanthellae within provides up to a whopping 90% of their nutritional needs through photosynthesis, while the remaining 10% is sourced from the ocean buffet of zooplankton. They employ a two-step tactic for this: first, they stun their prey using their nematocysts or stinging cells, and then deploy a mucus to ensnare and consume the tiny creatures.

Although equipped with the ability to swim traditionally by pulsing their bell, these jellies prefer the floor. Their stationary, upside-down lifestyle may seem lazy, but it is a strategic adaptation that allows them to harness energy effectively from the sun through their symbiotic algae.

The lifecycle of these jellies is a captivating dance of nature. After males release their reproductive cells, these combine with the female’s eggs in the open water. Once fertilized, females release planula larvae, which, seeking a solid base, often anchor to substrates like mangrove roots. Over time, these larvae morph into polyps, resembling tiny sea anemones. These polyps, under the right conditions, undergo a fascinating process called strobilation. From one polyp, multiple jellyfish bud off, introducing new medusae to the aquatic realm.

Impact on Humans and Environment

When in bloom, the density of these jellyfish can soar to 30 individuals per square meter. Such dense gatherings can deplete water’s oxygen levels, reshuffling the aquatic food chain. Their dominance can outcompete other species and consume a significant portion of the available zooplankton. Swimmers, too, need to be cautious. A brush against their tentacles can lead to stings, which can range from being a mere annoyance to causing more pronounced discomfort.

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Source: “Upside-down Jellyfish” — Australian Museum

WTF Fun Fact 13582 – Microplastics in Clouds

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In a world where plastic pollution has become the modern equivalent of a lurking monster, scientists are now finding microplastics in clouds!

Microplastics have long been known to plague our oceans and icebergs, but they’ve recently shown up hovering over two iconic Japanese mountains.

A High Altitude Revelation of Microplastics in Clouds

Researchers were taken aback when they found that clouds enveloping Mount Fuji and Mount Oyama weren’t just made of the usual water vapor. Embedded within were minute plastic particles, further underscoring the alarming extent of plastic’s grip on the planet. Picture this: the pristine beauty of these mountainous landscapes, tainted by the very pollution we’ve been battling on the ground. The troubling implication? Our world’s crops and water sources could face contamination from a new form of precipitation: “plastic rainfall.”

The concentration of microplastics in these clouds is not just a passive observer. Scientists believe the tiny plastic bits play an active role in the formation of these clouds while concurrently releasing greenhouse gases.

Hiroshi Okochi, the leading voice of the study and a professor at Waseda University, offers a dire perspective on the findings, emphasizing the grave environmental risks that “plastic air pollution” could usher in if left unchecked.

Unraveling the Source of Airborne Plastics

So, what exactly are these microplastics? Essentially, they’re tiny plastic fragments, less than five millimeters in size. Some of these particles break away from larger plastic objects over time, while others might be deliberately added to products or originate from industrial discharge. And here’s another surprise: our everyday tires and personal care products containing plastic beads are among the chief culprits.

The repercussions for human health are just as ominous. These minute invaders are finding their way into our systems. Evidence of microplastics has turned up in human lungs, brains, blood, and even placentas. While the full scope of their toxicity remains a subject of ongoing research, early signs are far from reassuring. Connections to behavioral alterations in mice and potential links to serious health conditions, such as cancer and irritable bowel syndrome, have surfaced.

Implications of Microplastics for the Climate and Ecosystem

Drawing samples from various altitudes, Waseda researchers identified a mix of polymers and rubber types in the clouds. Particularly alarming was the discovery of a large portion of “water-loving” microplastics, hinting at their significant role in swift cloud creation. This suggests that these particles could inadvertently be influencing our overall climate.

Why? Because when these microplastics are exposed to ultraviolet light in the upper atmosphere, they degrade faster. This degradation process emits greenhouse gases. This has far-reaching implications, especially in fragile ecosystems like polar regions, where the balance is already precarious.

The agility and mobility of microplastics further add to the complexity of the issue. They don’t just remain confined to one location. Airborne plastics can embark on extensive journeys, traveling vast distances through our environment. While the oceans, with their crashing waves and bursting bubbles, might be a primary source, the everyday dust from our roads and cars can be just as culpable.

Looking Ahead

The realization that our skies, previously thought to be untouched, are now tainted with microplastics serves as a poignant reminder of humanity’s footprint. It reinforces the urgency to address the plastic crisis at its roots and rethink our relationship with this ubiquitous material. For in the dance of nature and human progression, ensuring that our steps are in harmony has never been more crucial.

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WTF Fun Fact 13581 – Saguaro Cactus

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In the American Southwest, the saguaro cactus stands tall. It’s not just a plant; it’s a symbol of survival, adaptation, and the wonders of the natural world.

The Growth of the Saguaro Cactus

Saguaros are the gentle giants of the desert landscape. When they start their journey as a seedling, it’s hard to imagine that they’d eventually dominate the skyline. But they do – given time. Lots of it. A saguaro can stick around for up to 200 years. It might take anywhere from 50 to 70 years for the cactus to sprout its first arm. To put that in perspective, its first arm might be a sight that only your grandchildren will witness.

You might think that in a place as dry as the desert, everything would be in a constant rush to get water. But not saguaros. They’ve cracked the code on how to thrive here. When the infrequent desert rain does come, the saguaro is all in.

With shallow but wide-spread roots, the trees gulp down as much water as they can. This stored water nourishes the cactus through the harsh, dry months, ensuring it not only survives but thrives.

More Than Just a Plant

The saguaro is a hub of activity. Birds like the Gila woodpecker carve out homes in its thick flesh, and when they move on, other creatures take up residence. And when the cactus produces its nutritious fruits, it’s a full-on feast for the desert animals. In their quest for this delicious treat, these animals also help spread saguaro seeds, ensuring the next generation takes root.

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Source: “Plant Fact Sheet: Saguaro Cactus” — Arizona Sonora Desert Museum

WTF Fun Fact 13580 – Deadliest Heart Attacks on Monday

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Heart attacks on Monday seem to be a recurring theme. Recent findings suggest that, for some reason, people are more likely to face life-threatening heart issues as the new week kicks off. Let’s dive into what the research says and why this might be happening.

The Monday Mystery

A big conference in Manchester brought some surprising news to the table. Medical experts from Belfast and Ireland checked out hospital data for over 10,000 patients from 2013 to 2018. They found that a very serious type of heart attack, called STEMI, was more common on Mondays. Basically, STEMI is when a main blood vessel to the heart gets fully blocked. If doctors don’t treat it fast, it can be deadly.

Now, every year, around 30,000 people in the UK end up in the hospital because of STEMI. They get a quick check and usually undergo a procedure to unblock the vessel and get blood pumping properly again. What’s odd is that this research found Mondays had a 13% higher chance of people coming in with this problem. Even Sundays had a bit of a bump.

But why Mondays? Well, that’s the big question. Some older studies think our body’s natural sleep-wake cycle might play a role. But the full picture isn’t clear yet.

Doctors Weigh in on Heart Attacks on Monday

Dr. Jack Laffan, who headed the study, admits that this Monday trend is curious. He thinks several factors might be at play. One idea is our body’s natural clock. Our sleep patterns, wake-up times, and daily habits could influence when heart attacks happen.

Meanwhile, another expert, Professor Sir Nilesh Samani, stresses the importance of these findings. Heart attacks are always a medical emergency, no matter the day. He believes that the more we learn about the “Monday effect”, the better doctors can prepare and save more lives.

In the end, while Mondays might have a higher rate of heart attacks, every day is important when it comes to heart health. Whether it’s stress from starting a new work week or something else entirely, the research continues. The goal is always to protect our hearts and understand what might put them at risk.

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Source: “Why are serious heart attacks more likely on a Monday?” — British Heart Foundation

WTF Fun Fact 13579 – The Amazing, Changing Octopus Brain

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The octopus brain is unlike anything we know. Octopuses rank among Earth’s most intelligent creatures. They boast a neuron count similar to dogs. But, over half of these neurons reside in their eight arms, not in a central brain. This neural setup sets them apart.

Now, researchers have discovered something even more peculiar. Octopuses can rewrite their RNA in reaction to temperature shifts. This action is akin to humans adjusting outfits according to the weather.

By editing their RNA, octopuses change how their cells produce proteins. This flexibility may help them cope with seasonal temperature shifts. Joshua Rosenthal, a lead biologist, calls this ability “extraordinary.”

RNA Editing: A Temporary Genetic Makeover

Humans undergo RNA editing, but it’s limited. It affects protein production in fewer than 3% of our genes. In contrast, advanced cephalopods can adjust most neural proteins through RNA editing. Motivated by this disparity, scientists sought the driving forces behind cephalopod RNA editing. They prioritized temperature, given its frequent fluctuations.

They gathered California two-spot octopuses, familiarizing them with varying water temperatures. Weeks later, they probed 60,000 RNA editing sites in the octopus genomes. A third of these sites showed changes occurring astonishingly fast, from mere hours to a few days. Eli Eisenberg, another lead researcher, found the widespread changes unexpected.

Most of these changes manifested in cold conditions. They influenced proteins crucial for cell membrane health, neuron signal transmission, controlled cell death, and neuron calcium binding. Although these protein variants arise from RNA editing, Eisenberg admits that the complete adaptive benefits remain elusive.

Wild octopuses from both summer and winter displayed similar RNA changes. This solidified the belief in temperature as a major influencer in RNA editing for octopuses.

Protective RNA Editing for the Octopus Brain

Octopuses can’t control their body temperature like mammals can. Thus, scientists theorize that RNA editing acts as a protective mechanism against temperature shifts. Eisenberg elaborates that octopuses might opt for protein versions optimal for prevailing conditions. Such adaptive behavior is absent in mammals.

Heather Hundley, an external biologist, praised this groundbreaking study. She highlighted its potential in reshaping our understanding of RNA editing as a dynamic regulatory process in response to environmental changes.

The future beckons more investigations. The team plans to examine other potential RNA editing triggers in the octopus brain. Factors like pH, oxygen levels, or even social interactions might hold further insights. With each revelation, the octopus brain continues to astound the scientific community.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Octopuses Redesign Their Own Brain When They Get Chilly”‘ — Scientific American

WTF Fun Fact 13578 – Presidential DNA in Space

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What happens to a deceased person’s DNA in space? We don’t yet know, but one company is finding out.

In an unprecedented melding of history, space exploration, and pop culture, DNA samples of four iconic American Presidents are set to take an out-of-this-world journey. In a move that combines reverence for national leadership and a nod to entertainment legends, Texas-based space burial company, Celestis, is gearing up to launch an astonishing payload.

Sending Founding Fathers’ DNA in Space

Determined to make history, Celestis has chosen the DNA samples of four of the most recognized U.S. Presidents: George Washington, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, and Ronald Reagan. These samples will be part of Celestis’ deep space remembrance Enterprise Flight. This flight’s announcement fittingly occurred on Presidents’ Day, honoring some of the nation’s foremost leaders. The mission is groundbreaking, marking the first instance any U.S. president is symbolically dispatched to space.

Joining Trekkies on an Epic Journey

These presidential DNA samples are not traveling alone. Sharing their celestial voyage are the remains and DNA samples of some of the most beloved names from the “Star Trek” franchise. Among them are Nichelle Nichols, DeForest Kelley, and the show’s creator, Gene Roddenberry, along with his wife, Majel Barrett Roddenberry.

The list doesn’t end there. James “Scotty” Doohan, renowned for his role as the “Star Trek” engineer, and Douglas Trumbull, the visual effects genius behind classics like “2001: A Space Odyssey” and “Close Encounters of the Third Kind”, will also join the journey.

Interestingly, the hair samples, which are the DNA sources for these presidents, are from the collection of Louis Mushro. A global celebrity in the realm of hair collection and appraisal, Mushro’s reputation is unparalleled. Before his demise in 2014, he ensured these samples were stored meticulously in a climate-controlled facility. They now embark on a mission of historic significance, thanks to an anonymous donor who gifted these samples to Celestis.

DNA in Space, Beyond the Earth-Moon System

According to Charles M. Chafer, Co-Founder & CEO of Celestis, Inc., their “Enterprise Flight is historic by any standard.” Celestis envisions an ambitious future: assisting human expansion throughout the solar system. By sending the DNA of such significant figures into space, they aim to pave the way for future human missions.

This Enterprise Flight will transcend the Earth-moon system, traveling between 93 to 186 million miles into deep space. It will carry over 200 flight capsules, each loaded with cremated ash remains, DNA, personal messages, and greetings from global clients.

The journey of these capsules isn’t just about remembrance. The Vulcan Centaur rocket, responsible for transporting these capsules, has a primary mission: aiding the Pittsburgh aerospace company Astrobotic. This assistance involves directing their Peregrine lunar lander toward the moon’s surface. Following this, the Vulcan Centaur’s upper stage will delve deeper into space. Its destination? An orbit around the sun, where it will establish humanity’s furthest outpost, the Enterprise Station.

Adding to the mission’s allure is its partnership with Amazon. The 2023 Enterprise Flight will carry two prototype satellites, set to be part of Amazon’s internet constellation, Project Kuiper. As space exploration moves forward, collaborations like these symbolize the fusion of commerce, innovation, and remembrance.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “DNA from 4 American presidents will launch to deep space” — Space.com

WTF Fun Fact 13577 – Man Wins Lottery 20 Times

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You might marvel at the luck of the gentleman behind those “man wins lottery 20 times” headlines. But it’s a little trickier than it sounds.

A Leap of Faith on Lucky Numbers

Fekru Hirpo’s choice of numbers, 2-5-2-7, wasn’t a common strategy. Usually, the top prize for the Pick 4 game in Virginia is $5,000. However, in a unique twist of events, Hirpo didn’t simply play his numbers on a single ticket. He purchased 20 identical lottery tickets, all bearing the same four numbers. By doing so, he exponentially increased his chances of multiplying his potential jackpot.

When the draw took place on April 5, Hirpo’s gamble paid off handsomely. The seemingly innocuous numbers were declared the winners, turning what would have been a $5,000 win on a single ticket to an impressive haul of $100,000 for Hirpo. But what made him adopt this unprecedented strategy?

According to a news release, Hirpo himself confessed to lottery officials that he doesn’t usually buy multiple tickets with the same numbers. This time, however, intuition nudged him in that direction. “Something just told him to do it,” the release stated.

A Glimpse at the Odds

For those wondering about the odds, the Virginia Lottery sheds some light. The chances of Hirpo’s specific number combination emerging victorious stood at a staggering one in 10,000. So, despite the long odds, Hirpo’s trust in his numbers and the unique strategy of buying 20 identical tickets was nothing short of a masterstroke.

He purchased his tickets from a Four Mile Run Shell in Arlington, which will likely now gain some attention from other lottery hopefuls.

Fekru Hirpo isn’t the first individual to harness the power of repeating numbers in a lottery game. Not too long ago, a woman from Boca Raton, Florida, employed a similar strategy. She decided to play the same numbers on two Mega Millions tickets. As luck would have it, both her tickets matched all five white balls, resulting in a win. While she didn’t get the Mega Ball, her dual wins netted her a whopping total of $4 million.

The Future with His Fortune as Man Wins Lottery 20 Times

As for Hirpo’s plans for his newfound wealth? He remains tight-lipped. He’s indicated no immediate plans for his winnings. Whether he decides to invest, indulge in a luxury, or maybe just buy more lottery tickets, one thing is clear: his faith in his numbers and his audacious strategy will be talked about for a long time.

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Source: “Virginia man wins $100,000 after playing same numbers on 20 lottery tickets” — FOX 5 San Diego

WTF Fun Fact 13576 – Mark Twain and Halley’s Comet

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There’s a strange fact about Mark Twain and Halley’s Comet that most people don’t know.

In 1835, as Halley’s Comet graced the Earth’s skies, an event occurred that would link it forever with a literary legend. On November 30th of that year, Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, was born. This bright comet, which visits Earth roughly every 76 years, unknowingly set a cosmic appointment with Twain.

Halley’s Comet: A Brief Overview

Edmond Halley, an 18th-century astronomer, earned the honor of having this comet bear his name after he predicted its return in 1758. Ancient civilizations, from the Chinese to the Babylonians, had recorded their appearances for millennia. Its consistent visits have made it one of the most recognized celestial bodies in human history.

Mark Twain and Halley’s Comet: A Remarkable Prediction

As Twain aged and learned of the comet’s appearance during his birth year, he made a statement that would echo in the annals of literary history. In 1909, he declared, “I came in with Halley’s Comet in 1835. It is coming again next year, and I expect to go out with it.” Whether he said it in jest or with genuine foresight, the world would soon find out.

Mark Twain died on April 21, 1910. On the previous day, Halley’s Comet had made its closest approach to Earth. The comet, consistent with its 76-year schedule, had kept its appointment. So had Twain, aligning his exit from this world with the celestial body’s visit.

Mark Twain and Halley’s Comet

The periodic appearance and retreat of Halley’s Comet mirrors the fleeting nature of human life. In the comet’s brief brilliance, we can perhaps see a metaphor for our own transient existence. Twain, a master of insight and wit, often explored mortality and the impermanence of life in his works. The comet served as a grand, celestial parallel to these themes.

Beyond the Stars: Twain’s Enduring Legacy

Twain’s stories and societal critiques have left an indelible mark on American literature. Titles like “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” continue to challenge and entertain readers, highlighting issues such as racial inequality. While the comet’s timing added a layer of mystique to his narrative, Twain’s true impact lies in his enduring words.

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Source: “Halley’s Comet – The fascinating connection between Mark Twain and Davy Crockett” — Brian A. Crandall

WTF Fun Fact 13575 – Animals During a Solar Eclipse

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Eclipses are fascinating astronomical phenomena, in part because of the behavior of animals during a solar eclipse.

Understanding the Event

A total solar eclipse, where the moon completely covers the sun, occurs in the same location only about once every 375 years. This rarity means that animals encounter the phenomenon only once in many generations, rendering each occurrence an unusual and potentially disruptive event for them.

Categories of Behavioral Responses of Animals During a Solar Eclipse

Based on numerous observations, animal reactions to solar eclipses can be broadly classified into four categories:

  1. Evening Behaviors: Animals adopt routines typically seen at dusk or nighttime.
  2. Apparent Anxiety: Behaviors indicating stress or fear in response to the sudden darkness.
  3. Novel Responses: Uncharacteristic behaviors not seen during normal or evening routines.
  4. No Observable Change: Some animals appear unaffected and continue their regular activities.

Observations from the Riverbanks Zoo

In a comprehensive study at Riverbanks Zoo, 17 different species, spanning mammals, birds, and reptiles, were observed during the 2017 solar eclipse. The findings were as follows:

  • A significant majority of animals, about 75%, showed behavioral changes in response to the eclipse.
  • Most of these animals (8 out of 13 that showed changes) began engaging in evening or nighttime routines. This aligns with historical observations where animals mistook the temporary darkness of an eclipse for the onset of night. Such behaviors include returning to nests, starting evening vocalizations, or becoming more active, especially for crepuscular or nocturnal species.
  • Anxiety was the next common response. For instance, baboons, gorillas, giraffes, flamingos, and lorikeets showed signs of stress.
  • Only reptiles, specifically the Galapagos tortoise and the Komodo dragon, displayed novel behaviors. These were marked by a surge in activities compared to their usually sedentary state.

Historical Accounts and Varied Responses of Animals to a Solar Eclipse

Historical records, though sporadic, offer intriguing glimpses into animal behavior during eclipses:

  • The 1932 New England eclipse saw diverse species, from insects to large mammals, exhibiting nighttime behaviors.
  • In contrast, some animals show signs of anxiety. For instance, during various eclipses, domestic dogs remained silent, horses exhibited restless behaviors, and several bird species stopped flying, staying quiet.
  • Primates have exhibited unique reactions. Rhesus macaques in India fragmented into smaller groups to sleep during an eclipse, while captive chimpanzees in Georgia during the 1984 eclipse climbed high structures, seemingly observing the sky during the entirety of the event.
  • However, not all animals respond noticeably. Some reports from eclipses in India and Zimbabwe observed several species, from rodents to lions, showing no perceptible change in behavior during the event.

A Spectrum of Reactions

The behavioral responses of animals during solar eclipses indeed span a spectrum, from pronounced to subtle or even non-existent.

The varied reactions underline the complexity of understanding animal behaviors in the face of rare environmental changes. While some patterns emerge, such as the onset of evening routines, many responses remain unpredictable.

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Source: “Total Eclipse of the Zoo: Animal Behavior during a Total Solar Eclipse” — Animals (journal)