A new study found Atlantic salmon exposed to cocaine swam farther and lived longer than normal salmon, raising alarms that pharmaceuticals in waterways can rewrite wildlife behavior. Scientists say this is more than pollution: it’s an ecosystem level transformation. Researchers warn that drug disposal and weak wastewater treatment could spread these effects across aquatic habitats worldwide unless urgent action is taken.
New research is challenging the idea that snake venom evolution always favors complexity. Scientists found that some snakes shift toward simpler venom blends tailored to specific prey, particularly on isolated islands. This “ecological efficiency” reduces wasted effort while preserving effectiveness, and genetic flexibility allows future changes. Coevolution with prey further steers which venom traits survive.
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