Evolution

At 466 million years ago, the breakup of a large space rock may have led to major changes in our planet’s biodiversity

In animal studies, a set of 42 genes involved in neural development, learning and memory, and cognition seems to be associated with monogamy

Homo erectus used hand axes to butcher elephants and other game. But a new study suggests they also used finer, more sophisticated blades. Christopher Intagliata reports.

A new analysis finds extinct wombat cousins were heftier and stranger than previously thought

Squirrels constantly scan their surroundings for hawks, owls and other predators. But they also surveil for threats by eavesdropping on bird chatter. Christopher Intagliata reports. 

A smashed shell may have been crumpled by an ambling dinosaur

A lanky reptile found in the Centennial State is a close cousin of early dinosaurs

At the Kermadec Islands, humpbacks from all over the South Pacific converge and swap songs. Christopher Intagliata reports. 

The leafy lichens seem to have picked up where a lot of incinerated plants left off

A new study explores the brain structure of various dog breeds and how it relates to their behavior

Book recommendations from the editors of Scientific American