Biology
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Evidence for oldest complex life unearthed in Australian rocks
The microscopic 1.7-billion-year-old creatures are among our oldest ancestors; pioneers which gave rise to all multicellular life from toadstools to trees and toucans.
- Angus Dalton
Latest
Game of Thrones wolves were brought back from extinction. They’re now ready to breed
A US biotech firm used DNA from thousands of years ago to alter the genome of modern wolves and resurrect the lost species.
- Sarah Knapton
We once napalmed this cute creature. Now it’s worth $1b
Scientists for the first time have estimated what Australia would look like without this endearing – but often maligned – animal.
- Angus Dalton
When snow leopards in her care got sick, Lily was out for blood
In a bid to save some of the world’s most exotic animals in times of emergency, a US vet is developing a blood bank for zoos that covers a menagerie of species.
- Emily Anthes
A hot mic revealed Putin’s secret immortality hope. Here’s how that could go
A regenerative medicine expert weighs in on the Russian leader’s ideas about living forever.
- Angus Dalton
How pink octopus DNA helped scientists predict a global catastrophe
A collaboration between biology buffs, climate wonks, zoology nerds and glaciology gurus solved a crucial 50-year mystery.
- Angus Dalton
Rare trapdoor spider discovered on WA scientist’s doorstep
Although cutely called the citrine trapdoor for its small size, glossy sheen and bright orange or yellow gem-like appearance, Teyl luculentus hadn’t been sighted in three decades.
- John Kidman
The radical Australian experiments forcing the world to confront the ethics of life
From pig wings and lab-grown meat to mini-brains that make music, Perth has become a hub where art and science collide, raising profound ethical questions about what it means to be alive.
- Carla Hildebrandt
This neuroscientist wants you to live forever. Here’s how
What if you could cryonically freeze your brain and be revived in the future? It’s not so far-fetched.
- Cassidy Knowlton
