Plant viruses from past provide ecological clues

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1925 Herbarium specimen of the grass Avena fatua collected in Davis, Calif. from which two viruses were extracted. Credit: Linsey Newton, Michigan State University

Taking the medical history of a grassland may seem a bit esoteric – after all, how sick can grass be? However, scientists have discovered plant viruses from as early as 1917 containing information crucial not only for plant scientists, but for those in ecology, human health and bioterrorism.

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All News summaries for October 08, 2007

Study: Orangutan populations declining sharply

3 hours ago | User rating: not rated yet

(AP) -- Orangutan numbers have declined sharply on the only two islands where they still live in the wild and they could become the first great ape species to go extinct if urgent action isn't taken, a new ...

Farmers say salmonella scare has hurt tomato sales

3 hours ago | User rating: not rated yet

(AP) -- Expect fewer slices of red, ripe tomatoes next to the grill this holiday weekend. With a salmonella scare causing many customers to shun what's normally a summertime favorite, tomato farmers nationwide ...

Bangladesh releases 25,000 protected turtles

Jul 04, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet

Bangladeshi bio-marine experts have released 25,000 endangered baby turtles into the sea in the past two months as part of a state-run captivity breeding programme, an environmental official said Friday.