Advances

A linguistic puzzle, ancient DNA, the origins of bipedalism, and much more in this month’s Quick Hits

A secret pattern links far-flung octopus limbs

Trees communicate and cooperate through a fungal web, according to a widespread idea. But not everyone is convinced

Sharks wielding research cameras in the Bahamas, Mexico’s spider monkey diplomacy, a carbon “time bomb” in the Republic of Congo, and much more in this month’s Quick Hits

A new model could explain the scarcity of certain planet sizes

To protect from deadly drought and make it on land, plants developed complicated inner plumbing

This ancient creature swam in surprisingly modern seas

Engineered duckweed could be a prolific “green” oil producer

Prehistoric pollution reveals extensive copper mining near Lake Superior

A call for help sounds to ensure survival of a 140-year-old fishing partnership pairing cetaceans and humans

Laser beams could be used to deflect lightning strikes from vulnerable places such as airports and wind farms

New types of cutlery can enhance flavors such as sweetness or saltiness for a more satisfying meal