Four for four: Answers to biology’s most intriguing questions
Science is, and will always be, an interesting topic to discuss and learn about. It’s a field of study that encourages people to ask questions and look for answers. Even with advanced technologies, there is still so much to learn about the world, the galaxies, and their creatures. In this blog post, Steven Rindner, a bio student from New York, answers four intriguing science questions.
Something fishy
While it may seem like a funny query, asking if fish get thirsty underwater deserves a little more respect. According to a professor of fish physiology and aquaculture, it’s impossible to comprehend the experiences of non-human animals. However, scientists discovered a bit about how fishes manage water balance. Even if they don’t feel thirsty, they need to be hydrated to stay alive. Freshwater fish and saltwater fish have different means to stay hydrated. Saltwater species drink through their mouths to keep hydrated. On the contrary, freshwater fish don’t drink water as it dilutes their bodily fluids and blood.
Animal sleep hygiene
Different animals have varying sleeping habits, shares Steven Rindner. Some are true hibernators, while others sleep for hours on end. Regardless of their place in the animal kingdom, animals need sleep. In a study conducted by Marie de Manacéïne, one of the first female physicians in Russia, it was found that sleep deprivation is fatal. Total sleeplessness is fatal, but some animals can get by with very little sleep. However, those with significantly less sleep than others may die prematurely.
Elephant communication
Elephants are among the smartest, most gentle species on the planet. As such, they can communicate by vocalizing and through actions like ear waving, trunk curling, and other actions expressed to their young or to human guardians. In order to care for them and learn more about them, humans must keep an ethogram.
Deep-sea dilemma
People often see deep-sea creatures on the surface, weak and lifeless. This begs the question: do they implode or explode on the surface? Pressure doesn’t kill deep-sea creatures, but the temperature does. Deep-sea creatures are known to withstand a vast range of pressures, but they must be kept cool when brought to the surface to stay alive.
