#invasive species type behavior. kill it with fire

[varjopeura]

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[bonefall]

How would you so Vindictive or spiteful in Clanmew?

Let's talk a little bit about the Clan Culture concepts of evil.

(Surprise Clanmew ask because today is Halloween! BOO!)

"Sin" translates directly into Clanmew. An action that incurs displeasure with StarClan is Nyaw. Not all sins are codebreaking, but breaking ANY part of the warrior code is a sin. There are cats who have been damned by StarClan for sinful behavior, without breaking a single part of the code.

There are 9 Great Sins (Arrarra Nyul Nyawchk) of Clan Culture, some more severe than others. It's also really important to note that there is a long history of Clan xenophobia; many of these sins did not equally protect outsiders, but it did unfairly bind them when interacting with Clan cats.

Arrarra Nyul = "Amount Amount Minus" = Nine... ish.

Arrarra Nyok Ul = "Amount Amount Minus Wholeness" = EXACTLY 9. Used extremely rarely; ESPECIALLY not by leaders in reference to their lives, which they are commanded to keep vague about in case StarClan did not give them a full set.

Nyawchk = Nyaw + -ochk suffix = Sin-est. The Most Sinnest. Great Sin.

The sins are,

Selfishness = Mwyrgna This is the evil of beasts; complete and utter self-concern. It's fear that causes a animal mother to eat her own young, it's the drive that causes a cuckoo chick to throw its siblings out of a nest, or the carelessness of a sheep that grazes ling into sward. It's cannibalism, fratricide, over-exploitation of a natural resource. It's a lack of care for anyone else but yourself.

Sadism = Yaonyyw This is the evil of humans; pleasure at one's ability to cause destruction. It's easy to confuse with pride, and yet, something Clan cats often overassign. It's what they believe humans feel when they take the claws off their kittypets, or what pleasure a twisted cat gets from eating prey that's still alive to be in pain. It's the closest thing to the English word for "evil."

Disproportionate Retribution = Sswrswa This is the evil of collateral damage. It's not quite "revenge," which is a neutral word in Clanmew. It comes from a corruption of Shredtail, who killed every piglet he could find with a speck of white and eventually sacrificed a clanmate to use as bait to lure his enemy, Deadfrost. It's involving innocent people in a quest for justice, or doling out more payback than what would constitute justice. It's "going overboard."

Idleness = Nyaarn This is the evil of hesitation. What that means is, if a Clan cat sees something bad about to happen, they believe it is a sin to do nothing about it. Even before the addition of Darkstar's Commandment, if a kitten was in danger, it was evil to simply watch them suffer. It applied equally to a warrior of another Clan who was obviously overwhelmed by a wild animal, or leaving a dying animal in pain. The "bystander effect" is seen as a type of sinful Dark Forest influence, which must be broken as if it was a curse. The English idiom, "Idle hands are the devil's plaything," has a parallel in Clanmew; "Kach urrWrrah maobeh mwrrSarrshik." "A demon has sheathed your claws."

Blasphemy = Shaikeoch The evil of insulting the stars. To speak poorly of, or to disrespect StarClan in some way. While not part of the code, this is a particularly egregious sin at times through history and culture. Also gets used as a way to phrase "offense against faith," which is specifically to destroy someone's belief in StarClan's righteousness or existence. (If Mothwing had been able to confide in someone that Hawkfrost had done this to her, the Clan would consider it on the same level as harassment.) This sin in particular is debated a lot in the Fire Era and beyond, as Clan xenophobia was a recurring part of the zeitgeist and cats of different faiths made their marks on history.

Waste = Bleel The evil of, well... waste. It's about improperly using land or resources like an invasive species, killing too much and allowing the lives of prey to be taken in vain, or even preventing the proper use of a material. (for example, RiverClan and ThunderClan argue that the other is wasting Sunningrocks, because RC doesn't use it to hunt, and TC doesn't use it to bask)

Theft = Geesharro The evil of ill-gotten gains. Yes, this applies to taking physical property from an individual, but there is an important social quirk at play. Post-Ripple Era, a Clan's Star owns all the territory of their Clan. Before then, the Elders (as soon-to-be StarClan warriors) owned it. In either case, a warrior does not technically own what exists on their Clan's territory. To DISHONORABLY take from one territory to give to another Clan, or to not righteously win your spoils, is a sin.

Disrespect = Nagarrl The evil of denying what is owed. When you make a vow, you owe your words honor. The warriors of other Clans still uphold the code, and thus deserve respect. Elders have a right to be protected after their long lives of service. The world deserves the truth, so a lie is a sin of denial. This is the opposite of Kurruar, 'honor,' but Nagarrl has more of a connotation of intentional, knowing denial.

Vulgarity = Mlarni The evil of being a jerk, really. In mortal life, it applies simply to conduct. Being rude, not reciprocating favors, doing the bare minimum on your tasks, the more grounded type of "selfishness" as opposed to Mwyrgna. It also applies to forcing your Nyams to "lose face" through association with you and your bad reputation, or threaten Clan cohesion. StarClan has completely used this in the past to damn people based on bad vibes, when they're enraged into being unreasonable. The opposite of Ualhe, 'nobility,' but like Nagarrl above has a connotation of doing it purposefully.

Each Clan regards each evil in a slightly different way. For example, WindClan believes that blasphemy is a higher sin than ThunderClan does, and no one takes the avoidance of waste as seriously as ShadowClan, who has developed ingenious ways to preserve and season practically any kind of meat.

ALL of these sins can be misused and abused as a form of social control, especially against cats that have particularly strong religious or pro-social convictions. As concepts, they are subjective, and evolve through debate and personal interpretation through the years.

With the introduction of the Leader's Rights at the end of the Ripple Era, which made the word of a leader law, a Clan's star suddenly had the authority to enforce morality as they saw fit. Several tyrant leaders used this rule maliciously to punish sins that were not codebreaking. This law was only repealed in the Modern Era.

Combine these with this suffix guide for attributes to describe whatever sinful behavior in whichever severity you need!

[joshthebugguy]

Mastering Ant Control In North Las Vegas: Comprehensive Strategies For A Pest-Free Home

Ants may be small, but they are mighty when it comes to infiltrating homes and businesses in North Las Vegas. These persistent pests can be more than just a nuisance; they can damage property and contaminate food supplies. Understanding the importance of Ant Control In North Las Vegas is crucial for maintaining a comfortable and healthy living environment.

The Ant Invasion

North Las Vegas, with its arid climate and urban sprawl, presents an ideal habitat for a variety of ant species. Among the most common culprits are Argentine ants, odorous house ants, and fire ants. Each of these species brings its own set of challenges:

Argentine Ants: Known for their aggressive foraging behavior, these ants often form supercolonies, making them exceptionally difficult to eradicate.

Odorous House Ants: Named for the pungent odor they emit when crushed, these ants are adept at finding food sources and establishing nests indoors.

Fire Ants: Infamous for their painful stings, fire ants can pose serious health risks to humans and pets.

Identifying Ant Problems

Recognizing an ant infestation early can prevent it from becoming a full-blown invasion. Common signs include:

Trails of ants along walls, floors, and countertops.

Piles of dirt or sand, indicating nest sites.

Food containers with tiny holes or gnaw marks.

Understanding the specific type of ant you are dealing with is the first step in effective ant control in North Las Vegas. Each species requires a tailored approach for successful eradication.

The Importance of Professional Ant Control

While DIY methods and over-the-counter products may offer temporary relief, they often fail to address the root of the problem. Professional pest control services provide a comprehensive solution to ant infestations. Here’s why:

Expertise and Experience

Professional pest control technicians possess extensive knowledge of ant behavior and biology. They can accurately identify the species and determine the most effective treatment plan. Their expertise ensures that the infestation is not only controlled but also prevented from recurring.

Advanced Treatment Methods

Professionals utilize a combination of baits, sprays, and non-repellent insecticides designed to target ants at various stages of their lifecycle. These methods are more effective than store-bought products, which often only kill visible ants, leaving the colony intact.

Long-term Prevention

Effective Ant Control In North Las Vegas involves more than just eliminating existing ants. It requires implementing preventive measures to keep them from returning. Professionals can provide valuable advice on sealing entry points, removing attractants, and maintaining a pest-free environment.

Eco-friendly Solutions

In recent years, there has been a growing demand for eco-friendly pest control options. North Las Vegas residents are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of chemical treatments. Fortunately, many pest control companies now offer green solutions that are safe for both humans and pets. These methods utilize natural ingredients and innovative technologies to effectively manage ant populations without harming the ecosystem.

DIY Ant Control Tips

While professional services are recommended for severe infestations, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce the likelihood of an ant invasion:

Cleanliness: Keep kitchens and dining areas free of crumbs and spills. Regularly wipe down surfaces and store food in airtight containers.

Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for cracks, gaps, and holes that ants could use to gain entry. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these openings.

Remove Attractants: Ants are attracted to food and water sources. Fix leaky pipes, promptly clean up spills, and avoid leaving pet food out overnight.

Conclusion

Ant control in North Las Vegas is a vital aspect of maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment. The unique challenges posed by different ant species require a multifaceted approach that combines professional expertise with proactive prevention measures. By understanding the behavior of ants and the importance of targeted treatments, residents can protect their homes from these relentless invaders. Whether opting for professional services or employing DIY strategies, the key is to act swiftly and decisively to keep ants at bay.

[beauty-and-passion]

Time to talk about the flower shirt

You read the title. Time to talk about this.

This is the infamous flower shirt Thomas put on in his store and, since the fandom is the fandom, everyone started to speculate about those flowers.

At first, I didn’t want to do it. They’re just flowers and other people already talked about them, so what could I possibly add to the conversation?

But while I was writing about Orange, I had to talk a moment about the orange flower. It was supposed to be a small parenthesis, just a couple of words about that.

But then I looked at the other flowers and what other people told/not told about them and how some didn’t find Patton’s flower... so here I am, adding my two cents to this theme.

You needed it? Probably not. Well, I’m writing it anyway.

So let’s take a closer look at those flowers and see each one in detail:

__________________________________

Roman: Red rose

Should I really explain why it’s perfect for Roman? Red roses are the universal symbol of love. Basically in all cultures red roses symbolize passion, true love, romance and desire. Also, according to this website, even the shade has a meaning! In fact, the deeper the red shade is, the stronger is the passion.

And even the number of red roses has a meaning! In this case, we have only one single red rose and that "represents love at first sight, or if it’s coming from a long-term partner, they are saying “you are still the one”.”

You know what that made me think? About Thomas telling Roman “You’re my hero”. A perfect symbol that he was “still the one” for Thomas.

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Orange: Lantana camara

This is an incredibly peculiar flower.

Lantana Camara symbolizes severity and rigour. And this alone can be analyzed in all possible ways, but there are other interesting details about this plant I think it's worth mentioning.

Lantana is toxic for livestock, such as cattle, sheep, horses, dogs and goats. According to Wikipedia, previous studies suggested it could be toxic for humans too, especially the green unripe berries. However "other studies have found evidence which suggests that its fruit poses no risk to humans".

Lantana is a freaking invasive plant. In some areas, it's so predominant, to reduce biodiversity, because its presence "can significantly slow down the regeneration of forests, by preventing the growth of new trees". Also, as if this isn't enough, this plant can also produce toxic chemicals which inhibit other plant species.

Lantana has also a great adaptability, that helped it to be so invasive: it can live in a wide range of different environmental conditions, it can survive long periods without water, heck it's even resistant to fire. It's not a plant you can underestimate. Like Orange, I assume.

But Lantana isn't just an invasive plant. Lantana has always been used for medical purposes, because it showed good antimicrobial, fungicidal and insecticidal properties and its extract helps against respiratory infections and ulcers.

Also, since it doesn't have many pests or diseases, lantana became a common ornamental plant. It even attracts butterflies!

In other words: isn't that the perfect plant to symbolize the double nature of a dark side? It can be a threat, change the environment, destroy and even kill. But it can also be a medicine, something useful, something beautiful.

Whoever Orange is, Lantana camara tells us that, whithout a doubt, he’s a dark side.

__________________________________

Janus: Sunflower

Do you think Janus isn't perfect enough as he is? Do you think there's not enough husband material in the snek?

Well, you’re wrong and the sunflower is here to prove it.

Sunflower symbolizes loyalty, adoration, longevity, vitality, worship. Now add this up to the sunflower’s behaviour and how it follows the sun... and you’ll get Janus. Janus literally acts like a sunflower: Thomas is his sun and everything Janus does is for him. His whole existence is centered around Thomas.

But we already knew that, because it's the same message that shone through his playlist. Everything about Janus tells us how much he adores Thomas, from his canonical behavior in the series, to his playlist, to this flower.

Oh, do you need another proof that this is flower is perfect for Janus? Some societies use sunflowers as religious symbols. Ah, some good ol' reference to religion: it’s like being in his playlist all over again.

And, of course, sunflowers are used for a variety of reasons, like cooking oils, skin care and so on. Even the flower says self care.

This man is perfect.

__________________________________

Remus: Green chrysanthemum

Here's another interesting flower.

Chrysanthemum symbolizes death and it’s the typical flower used for funerals. And I thought this was its universal meaning. It was perfect for Remus just like that.

But then I found out that Europeans use chrysanthemums for funerals and to honor the dead. This flower actually has a whole lot of meanings, some completely different from this.

In China, for example, chrysanthemums are associated with wealth, prosperity and long life. Also they're symbols of new life and reincarnations, so they're the perfect gift for old people or newborns.

While in Japan chrysanthemums are symbols of power and royalty. And that's even more fitting for Remus, because he's a Duke, so he is royalty.

But chrysanthemum also symbolizes friendship - and not just "a friendship", but a meaningful one. It's a symbol of loyalty, devotion, romantic/platonic love and, in general, positive energy. It's a flower with an incredibly strong meaning, so it can't be given too lightly.

And this makes it even more perfect for Remus. It's a flower with a huge plurality of meanings, it's both associated with life and death, it's powerful and it's royalty.

Also, you can eat it. Isn't that the perfect Remus flower?

(On a side note: please notice how chrysanthemums and sunflowers are both associated with joy, loyalty and devotion. I would have never considered "joy" a common trait between Janus and Remus while loyalty and devotion... well, they both care about Thomas and his career and they both work for him despite not being accepted, so I can see why those are common traits.)

__________________________________

Patton: Nemophila

Surprise surprise, this flower wasn't easy to find. I’ve never heard of it, so I had to search among endless lists of blue flowers, hoping to find one that would perfectly match the one on the shirt.

And that’s how I found nemophila.

First of all: nemophila is also known as "Baby Blue Eyes" and it's an extremely rare color to find in nature. It’s very famous in Japan, thanks to the Hitachi Seaside Park. Open this link: it’s a literal sea of blue and it’s absolutely gorgeous. Of course, it attracts people every year.

Nemophila represents prosperity, congratulations on success and victory. Not the first things you would associate with Patton, right?

Well, while I was searching more informations about this flower, I found out this website about the essence of Baby Blue Eyes and the passage I quoted down below has the exact same words you can find on that link:

With its pronounced affinity for water, the Baby Blue Eyes flower essences addresses qualities of tender sensitivity, innocence and trust associated one’s early childhood relationship to the father, or other significant masculine figures that are in some way disturbed.

Very often the father was absent, or there was a lack of support or genuine presence. The Baby Blue Eyes type attempts over time to cover this wound of vulnerability with a false “hardening,” such as emotional distancing, mistrust, cynicism or spiritual alienation. It is a flower that can be equally helpful for men or women, although it is especially needed for many men who struggle to become strong, by disowning their pain.

So nemophilia’s essence has qualities associated with childhood, to the father figure and attempts to “repress” and hide emotions.

That’s Patton. That’s him, period. The childhood-related emotions, that are linked to Patton’s longing for “a simpler time”. The mentions of a father figure - who migh be absent or showing lack of support (like, idk, suggesting you should die so your friends live?). And the attempt to “cover the vulnerability” doesn’t remind you anything? Like the Nostalgia episodes?

This flower is Patton.

__________________________________

Logan: Blue petunia

I would like to say, from the bottom of my heart, a huge "FUCK YOU" to this flower, because I spent TWO DAYS searching all the blue flowers in the world and all possible variants, asking myself why this goddamn flower looked so familiar and why it was so hard to find. Blue isn't even a common color in nature, so why couldn't I find it?

I've learned more about blue flowers in these two days than in my entire life. I've searched among flowers I never saw before, like glandora diffusa, leschenaultia and omphalodes verna. I was so desperate to consider this flower a new species, with the petals of a bellflower and the corolla of a morning glory. I even found a goddamn chinese variant of the morning glory that was somehow similar but not that much and why, WHY this was so hard to find?!

And then, after two days and a lot more desperation, I remembered: my dear friend @reptilianwithscallions​ told me about a post they made, regarding this shirt and the flowers. Maybe they had some idea about Logan's flower?

Well, let's all thank my saviour and this post, because otherwise I would've kept searching until the end of my days.

Long story short, Logan's flower is a fucking blue petunia.

And it's a very peculiar choice, because petunias have multiple meanings, several of which can be contradictory.

In general, petunia symbolizes anger and resentment. It reminds someone that you're still angry or disappointed by their actions and you haven’t gotten over the things that caused these feelings.

Oh my, I didn't know we were back in Logan's playlist. It's basically what he kept expressing towards Thomas with his songs: that he was angry at Thomas for his decision, that he doesn't approve that Thomas hasn't "a real job" and so on. Petunia is a flower that screams passive-aggressive, so it's perfect for Logan.

But petunia's meaning deeply changes, depending on the color of the flower. And while petunia in general symbolizes anger, a blue petunia is a symbol of peacefulness, intimacy and deep trust, shared between two or more people. It's so wholesome, because the deep trust reminds me - again - of Logan's playlist and how it ended: no matter what, he and Thomas are always best friends.

Also, petunia flowers have even a secret meaning behind. Since they’re also gifted to new neighbors or to people who have just moved into a new home, they represent a perfect welcome and a way to express affection and kindness to others.

You’re lucky to be so wholesome, you tricky flower.

__________________________________

Virgil: Perennial Geranium

Geranium is a confused flower.

Some of the other flowers have conflicted meanings, but not as much as this flower. These are the most common meanings I found:

Folly or Stupidity

Gentility and kind nature

Clever minds

Ingenuity

Melancholy

Perfect gift for a bride

You can gift it to someone with whom you have planned a meeting 

You can gift it to someone with whom you haven't planned a meeting, just to make them feel welcomed

True Friendship

See? It’s confused.

Aside from jokes, this variety of meanings is due to its great diffusion: since geraniums grow everywhere, every culture gave them a different meaning. And sometimes these meanings depend on the situation too.

Awww, isn't it perfect for Virgil? He can be good and bad at the same time. Anxiety can be bad for Thomas and detrimental for his life, but it can also be the alarm Thomas needs. It depends on the situation.

And, just like geraniums in general symbolize positive emotions, happiness and friendship, so Virgil is in general a good guy. All he does is for Thomas' wellbeing, not against him.

And this is confirmed by the vast use of geranium's essential oil. It's one of the most popular and it has a ton of properties: anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant, decongestant, relaxing and so on. Just like our Virge boy can be incredibly useful under the right circumstances. (Did someone say "Flirting with social Anxiety"?)

Also, geraniums are simple, humble flowers that usually grow outside, but then we take them and make them part of our homes. Once again, it’s Virgil: he's an outsider, he's humble, he talks bad about himself - but Thomas and the others took him and made him part of the famILY anyway.

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Thomas: Cherry blossom

I searched this flower everywhere and the only one that looks like the one on the shirt is the cherry blossom. Why did Thomas make a cherry blossom with eight petals, when they all have five? I have no idea. Is this a different flower, maybe? Maybe, but I’m done: I've looked at enough flowers and I don’t have any strength left.

As you probably already know, cherry blossoms are extremely important in Japan. They're beautiful, they're everywhere and they're meaningful.

Why? Because cherry blossoms are considered the perfect metaphor for human existence. When they blossom it's a pink ocean, a party, people go to admire them - but they’re short lived, because in two weeks, the blossoms start to fall. It's just like human life: a small, rich, glorious parenthesis in the void. Something little and precious that ends soon.

But cherry blossoms also symbolize rebirth, optimism, hopes and dreams. When they bloom, it means springtime is coming and spring has always been associated with renewal.

That’s a very good choice for character Thomas. He’s basically a cherry blossom, the whole series is: something that reminds us how beautiful life is, how multi-faceted, how important. Just like Thomas' single being encompasses seven different sides of himself, so life presents a wide range of choices, of aspects, of flavours. All beautiful, all worthy of appreciation, no matter how different they can be from you and your experience.

And this becomes even more important, in relation to the passage of time and the transience of life. Because life is short and, after that, there won't be any more time to appreciate anything.

In addition to that, I would like to point out how the theme of passage of time is something we already saw in the series. And not just one time, but several. Since the first season, we have episodes all around the concept of growing up, growing old, not being a child anymore, becoming an adult. And the last Aside keeps going in this direction. It's clear this is a big theme and its connection with the cherry blossoms proves it.

But why is the flower so different on the shirt? Because Thomas wanted to mess up with us? Probably. Almost certainly. Once again, thank you Mr. Sanders for making me question everything.

The floor is (figuratively) yours now: if you have any other information, thoughts or opinions, feel free to share them.

_______________________________

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[sciencenewsforstudents]

Stories about individual species on the brink of extinction may be all too familiar. But a new tally now reveals the breadth of the conservation crisis: One million of the world’s species are now poised to vanish, some as soon as within the next few decades.

That number, which amounts to 1 in every 8 animal or plant species on Earth, comes from a sweeping new analysis of about 15,000 studies conducted within the last 50 years on topics ranging from biodiversity to climate to the health of ecosystems. During that time, the human population has doubled, increasing from 3.7 billion in 1970 to 7.6 billion today. And people are behind the looming losses, an international group of scientists says.

Thanks to human activities, the rate of global species extinctions is tens to hundreds of times faster than the average extinction rate was over the last 10 million years, the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, or IPBES, concludes in a summary of the study published May 6. The intergovernmental group, which has 132 nations as members including the United States, will release its full 1,500-page report in about six months.

The report contains many other sobering numbers: More than 40 percent of amphibian species are threatened, along with 33 percent of marine mammals, 33 percent of sharks and reef-building corals and 10 percent of insects. Right now, the rate of global species extinctions is tens to hundreds of times faster than the average extinction rate was over the last 10 million years. And if human activities continue unabated, the rate of extinctions will continue to accelerate, the report states.

Here are the top five ways that people are speeding up the losses:

1. Leaving species fewer places to live on land

PALM PLACE Millions of hectares of once-lush, intact forest in Southeast Asia have given way to agriculture. More than 80 percent of the region’s agricultural expansion comes from palm oil plantations (shown). Credit: YUSNIZAM/ISTOCK /GETTY IMAGES PLUS

The top threat to species on land due to humans is habitat loss, the report says. About 75 percent of land on Earth has been “severely altered” by human actions. Since 1992, urban areas have grown by more than 100 percent. Elsewhere, agriculture to feed the world’s growing population has taken over many once-diverse habitats such as old-growth forests, wetlands and grasslands.

The report notes that 85 percent of wetlands that were present in 1700 were lost by 2000, and that forests now cover just 68 percent of the area they covered in preindustrial times. What’s more, the production of food crops is up by 300 percent since 1970, and in the world’s tropical regions, agricultural lands expanded by 100 million hectares from 1980 to 2000. In Southeast Asia, palm oil plantations have edged out once-intact forests, while in Central America, cattle ranches have expanded into forested areas (SN Online: 9/13/18).

2. Overfishing the oceans

Habitat loss is a problem in the oceans, too — about 66 percent of the ocean surface area has been altered by human actions, the report finds. But the top threat to marine creatures from people is overexploitation. Industrial fishing spans more than 55 percent of the ocean’s surface area, and about 33 percent of the ocean’s fish stocks are being harvested at unsustainable levels.

Among the world’s most overfished species are Atlantic halibut, bluefin tuna and all types of sharks. Other species, such as dolphins and loggerhead turtles, suffer as bycatch when they are inadvertently trapped during fishing activities.

3. Not tackling climate change fast enough

The world has already warmed by an average of about 1 degree Celsius since preindustrial times (SN: 12/22/18, p. 18). That warming is linked to the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as floods, fires and droughts, as well as to rising seas and to shifts in where species are distributed around the globe (SN: 1/19/19, p. 7). And warmer ocean waters are also placing stress on many fish populations, reducing the amount of fish that can be caught sustainably, without doing long-term damage to populations (SN: 3/30/19, p. 5).

Land-use changes are also tied to climate change: Land clearing, crop production and the use of fertilizers currently account for about 25 percent of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. Three-quarters of those emissions come from animal-based foods (SN: 7/7/18, p. 10). And as a result of decreasing diversity, some tropical forests are contributing more carbon dioxide to the atmosphere than they are absorbing (SN: 10/28/17, p. 9).

4. Continuing to pollute the environment

Among the worst recent offenders is marine plastic pollution, which has increased tenfold since 1980 and affects at least 267 species, including 86 percent of marine turtles, 44 percent of seabirds and 43 percent of marine mammals, the report states (SN Online: 3/22/18).

Plastics, particularly microplastics, can find their way into soils, too (SN: 5/12/18, p. 14). And other kinds of pollution are still a problem, including untreated urban and rural waste, mining and agricultural waste and oil spills (SN: 3/17/18, p. 5).

ALIEN INVASION The emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis) is a wood-boring beetle native to forests in Russia, Japan and China. First spotted in Michigan in 2002, these beetles have since killed millions of North American ash trees. CREDIT: USGS BEE INVENTORY AND MONITORING LAB/FLICKR5. 

5, Paving the way for invaders

Thanks to global trade and travel, humans have introduced invasive species to vulnerable areas around the world: Across 21 countries with the most detailed records, the number of invasive species per country has increased by about 70 percent since 1970, the report finds. Those invaders not only compete with native species for water and other resources, but also — like the frog-killing chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (SN: 4/27/19, p. 5) or the tree-munching emerald ash borer — can wipe out vast numbers of native animals or plants.

But there’s hope …

Humans can still slow the loss of species, the researchers note. Conservation investments from 1996 to 2008 have already reduced the extinction risk for mammals and birds in 109 countries by 29 percent.  But saving more species will require “transformative changes” in behavior, the report states, including how people consume energy, food and water, and how they use land and technology.

STILL HERE The golden lion tamarin (Leontopithecus rosalia) is a success story for conservationists, although the monkeys remain endangered. Their only habitat, Brazil’s Atlantic forest, is a biodiversity hot spot, but has dwindled to only a few percent of its former size due to activities including lumber extraction, cattle ranching and agriculture. By the 1960s, the primates were nearly extinct. But over the last few decades, a captive breeding and reintroduction program has helped their populations in the wild rebound to about 1,500 individuals. CREDIT: SHERSEYDC/FLICKR (CC BY-SA 2.0)

[denialisnotpolicy]

Let’s Talk about Extinction

Humans play a role in the loss of species and ecosystem services, which is why extinction rates are sharply increasing. It is normal for species to go extinct, and we refer to its natural rate as the background extinction rate, which is approximately 1 species per year for every million species living on earth. Mass extinction is a term used to describe when many species go extinct in a short period of time. Thus far, the earth has experienced 5 mass extinctions, wiping out at least half its living species. Right now, biodiversity researches project the extinction rate to rise at least ten-thousand times the background rate. At this rate, up to 50% of the world’s 2 million identified species could go extinct by the end of the century. This means we are entering a sixth mass extinction primarily caused by harmful human activity. This tremendous loss in turn impacts the ecosystem services that required the species. In fact, the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment showed that 15 of 24 of the earth’s major ecosystems are in decline. 

The “human activities” degrading the environment that we talk about include “destroying and degrading natural habitats, introducing invasive species, and increasing human population, pollution, climate change, and overexploitation.” [1] These are often abbreviated HIPPCO. We should care about these harmful behaviors and the potential mass extinction for many reasons. First, as Miller mentions, living species are a vital part of our natural capital. As I’ve discussed in this blog before, all major types of capital come from or are dependent on natural capital in some form. Without it, we would not have an economy. Living species provide ecosystem services that our lives and economies depend on. 

Figure 1. Different types of natural capital and their uses. (Miller, G. Tyler. Living in the Environment. National Geographic Learning/Cengage Learning, 2018, 197)

However, there is another reason we should care about mass extinction of living species. Their value does not, or at least should not, be derived entirely from their usefulness to humans. Many in the environmentalist movement believe that these species have a right to exist on their own. This is an ethically founded viewpoint that again makes a distinction between anthropocentric and ecocentric worldviews. However, within this view we find some difficult questions. For example, if all species have a right to exist on their own, how do we decide which to help and which are less important? We will always reach a hierarchy of some kind, whether humans are on top or not. 

Invasive species are one way in which natural habitats are interrupted. Although some invasive species include wheat, corn, poultry, and other livestock that make up the majority of our food supply in the U.S., they are often very harmful to natural habitats. Wild boars, for example, were deliberately introduced for the purpose of hunting for sport. The species reproduces so rapidly, and are so vicious, that they have wreaked havoc across the continental U.S. They do not have enough predators to control their population. 

If a wild boar invaded and tore up my yard and my garden, I would most likely contact a professional to try to catch and eliminate the wild boar. Since they are so destructive and don’t seem to interact beneficially with many other species, I think this action would benefit the other species in the area, and the ecosystem as a whole. 

Figure 2. Some different invasive species. (Miller, G. Tyler. Living in the Environment. National Geographic Learning/Cengage Learning, 2018, 201)

Due to the tremendous threat a sixth mass extinction poses, I believe we must enlist the help of laws and treaties to protect species. In the past, efforts like the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in the U.S. have proved successful--99% of the species listed in the act have been saved from extinction. These efforts should be more widespread. I think this is an area where we can apply the precautionary principle, which states that “when substantial preliminary evidence indicates that an activity can harm human health or the environment, we should take precautionary measures to prevent or reduce such harm even if some of the cause-and-effect relationships have not been fully established scientifically.” [2] Basically, even if we cannot be entirely sure that our efforts will be 100% successful, when it comes to irreparable damage, or anything we cannot undo, we must act even in our uncertainty. 

In addition to focusing on individual species, we can also look at conservation efforts on an ecosystem scale. Some major ecosystems include forests and grasslands, both of which are at risk. Forests provide several important ecosystem and economic services, as summarized in figure 3. While some argue that we should not try to put a monetary value on irreplaceable ecosystem services, believing their value to be infinite, I think it is enlightening to recognize that if we do give them a monetary value, they are worth about $125 trillion annually. 

Figure 3. Important ecosystem and economic service provided by forests. (Miller, G. Tyler. Living in the Environment. National Geographic Learning/Cengage Learning, 2018, 223)

Deforestation and forest fires due to the rise in temperatures are two forms of destruction of the forest ecosystem. These can lead to water pollution from erosion, acceleration of flooding, extinction of specialist species, habitat loss, and release of CO2 and loss of CO2 absorption. A specific type of forest that calls for our concern is tropical forests, which make up about 6% of earth’s land area, but contain at least half of the world’s known species of terrestrial plants, animals, and insects. 

After forests, grasslands are the second most-used and altered ecosystem by human activities. They are at risk due to overgrazing, which kills the grasses and exposes the land to invasive species and erosion. 

The best way to preserve terrestrial biodiversity is to strictly or partially protect areas from harmful human activity. Right now, about 6% of earth’s land is protected, leaving 94% up to exploitation by humans. 

I support the effort to establish more wilderness areas in the United States to preserve critically important species and ecosystems. I find that most of the disadvantages of establishing are only negative when viewed from a short-term economic viewpoint. For example, some would argue that establishing more wilderness areas would slow economic growth by preventing certain areas from extraction of minerals, lumber, agricultural practices, etc. which there is a high demand for. However, I think if we think about natural capital in a long-term point of view, we can see that economic growth will always be limited by the abundance of natural capital, so destroying it now for temporary growth will eventually catch up to us. 

Word Count: 1110

Question: Why is our judgment often clouded by a desire for immediate economic growth? Is this the case in all countries or is it specific to the United States? How can we change this?

[1] Miller, G. Tyler. Living in the Environment. 19th ed. (Boston: Cengage Learning, 2018) 217.

[2] Miller, G. Tyler. Living in the Environment. 19th ed. (Boston: Cengage Learning, 2018) 216.

[karilamari]

New York City- Urban Wildlife

Wildlife NYC- website has common animals, broken down by accessible list, includes how to interact with them in your environment and behavioral patterns. 

Stopping the Feeding of Animals at Parks: 

First, there’s the problem that the animals may become dependent on human feeding with the result that it adversely affects the foraging behavior of the animals, causing them to become less active, deterring them from seeking out more natural foods.

Urban wildlife who are fed a diet of moldy bread, potato chips, French fries and ice cream will suffer from serious vitamin deficiencies, reduced immunity and increase susceptibility to infection.

Interactive Map of NYC Wildlife by Month- also includes breakdown by places

Botanical Garden list of wild animals. The list differs slightly from the NYC Parks list and includes rabbits, foxes, skunks. 

How Climate Change Affects Animal Extinction in NYC

They found that local extinctions happened because of changes in how the animals used and interacted with their environment, not because of temperature changes. For example they found that: Reduced food availability led to local extinctions of three birds — a plover, a jay, and an auklet; A spreading deadly fungus killed off multiple species of tropical frog; drought killed off a local type of aloe tree and four amphibians; and lower oxygen availability in warmer waters killed off a fish.

Effects of New York City in Climate Change: “Living on Earth” Steve Erwood MP3

Jamaica Bay marshes are over 1,000 years old; if marshes disintegrate then hundreds of species will be affected. MTA flooding, etc

Jamaica Bay Eco Watchers (further research)

Ocean rise by at least 3 feet; costal areas can end up underwater

Short + Comprehensive FactSheet of Climate Change Effects on NY

Falling lake levels by at least 5 feet

Decrease in air quality due to increase in heat exacerbating urban pollution 

20% increase in forest fires

Video: Climate Change Effects on Natural City Areas

How Climate Change Affects New York City’s Plants and Animals: Comprehensive breakdown!

In Long Island Sound, fishermen are now catching scup, black sea bass, summer flounder and northern kingfish, warmer water species that were uncommon years ago when the catch was mainly winter flounder, cod, bluefish and striped bass. Good premise for the beginning of the TV series- new animals move in, but why?

In the last several decades, many North American plants and animals have moved approximately 36 feet to higher elevations or 10.5 miles to higher latitudes every 10 years. New environments are often less hospitable for the species entering them as there might be less space or more competition for food. Some species may be moving as far they can go if they are on top of a mountain or hemmed in by some obstruction. A recent study found that almost 50 percent of species that move to a cooler environment end up going extinct.

Long term vision: By the 2080s, average temperatures in the New York metropolitan region could go up 8.8˚F, precipitation could increase 13 percent, and heat waves in New York City could triple. Sea levels around the city, which have risen a little over one foot since 1900, could rise 39 inches by the 2080s and possibly 6 feet by 2100.

Species at risk: Saltmarsh sparrows are in danger of decline since wetlands are especially vulnerable to climate change. Recovering species such as egrets and peregrine falcons could become vulnerable again; and the red knot, a shorebird, might soon disappear altogether. Eastern Tiger Salamander; Spruce Grouse; Shortnose, Lake and Atlantic Sturgeon and Bog Turtle. York is expected to lose its spruce-fir forests in the Catskills and Adirondack Mountains by 2100. (What effect might this have on the quality of New York City’s water supply that depends on the natural filtration processes of the ecosystem in that region?) Besides the spruce and fir trees, sugar maple, beech and birch forests as well as elm, ash and cottonwood forests are moving north, while hardwoods like oak and hickory, as well as invasive plants, are moving in.

The warmer winters and longer growing seasons are helping pests, pathogens and invasive plants proliferate (many weed species thrive with higher concentrations of CO2 in the atmosphere). “Warmer temperatures accelerate insect biology. Warmer seasons cause insects to grow faster, produce larger individuals which produce more eggs and more babies, and should give them a longer feeding season.”

Fish in Long Island Sound are responding to the impacts of climate change as well as to ocean acidification and human activities such as pollution and shoreline development.

In response to all the dread in this article. Here is a report that lists all the ways we can respond to climate change.

PRIORITIES FOR FURTHER RESEARCH:

One NYC 2050: A livable climate

NYC Nature Goals 2050

Community Wildlife Habitat

U.N Report on Effects of Humans on Plant + Reccs

Bring Wildlife Back to the City

Bees in Offices as a Solution

[robertpatrick8]

10 Lawn Pests in Pittsburgh, PA

Whether they choose to lurk above the ground or deep below its surface, there are likely hundreds of pests infesting your lawn and damaging your hard-earned landscape. While some types of insects and other uninvited residents are not harmful–and, in some cases, are beneficial–many of these lawn pests can cause serious damage to your grass, soil, and plants.

If you notice signs of any of these lawn pests in Pittsburgh, take care to get rid of them as soon as possible. 

1. Crane Flies

Crane flies look a lot like mosquitoes, but instead of feeding on you and your blood, they feed on your lawn. These lawn pests tend to emerge in the late summer, and are often found near compost piles. They feed voraciously on the roots and crowns of your grass, infesting areas of excessive moisture or shade.

2. Chinch Bugs

These tiny insects live above the soil, taking up residence in tall lawn grasses. They can survive harsh winter weather by sheltering under shrubs and leaf litter, making them a force to be reckoned with even in Pittsburgh’s cold climate. Theses pests feed on patches of grass, wiping out an entire lawn in as little as three weeks. Signs of infestation include small patches of brown grass that gradually begin to widen.

3. White Grubs

White grubs are found all over the country, preferring to feed on your lawn’s roots from beneath the soil. These lawn pests can create spongy sections of grass that discolor and separate easily. Grubs are a food source for many species of birds and small mammals, enticing them to dig and damage your lawn even more. They can also survive the winter and feed opportunistically in the early spring.

4. Moles

Moles are frequently found in Pittsburgh yards, as they tunnel and dig for the earthworms that reside in healthy soil. While moles don’t attack your plants directly, their tunneling behavior destroys soil structure and destroys your plants’ root systems. A single mole can spell disaster for a lawn, you’ll want to get rid of them immediately once you suspect an infestation.

5. Japanese Beetles

This invasive species typically doesn’t eat your grass, but do lay their eggs in the soil. If you see Japanese beetles in your garden–such as feeding on your roses–you may have an infestation that needs to be dealt with.

6. Mole crickets

Mole crickets are some of the most devastating lawn pests, as they tunnel through soil and feast on decaying plant matter, beneficial insects, and grass roots. Infested lawns appear brown and are spongy to the touch. The tell-tale sign that mole crickets are at work–and that this damage is not the result of chinch bugs or other lawn pests–are the tunnels and rivulets that their work causes in the soil. They often appear as a result of overwatering, and can only be dealt with by applying insecticide.

7. Caterpillars

Caterpillars aren’t harmful in small numbers, but if their populations explode, they can cause some serious issue. Lawn caterpillars can cause large, unsightly brown spots. Test for them by performing a “drench test” in which you pour a combination of dishwashing liquid and water over one square yard of the lawn. Watch the lawn and count the number of caterpillars that surface–more than fifteen in a square yard signals in infestation. This can be dealt with by applying Bacillus thuringiensis treatments.

8. Fire ants

Fire ants aren’t damaging to your lawn, exactly, but can make it extremely difficult to enjoy all of your hard work out there. Fire ants inflict a painful sting, and can cause a serious allergic reaction in some people. These pests nest outdoors in sunny areas, and prefer exposed soil. They feed on both plant and animal matter alike.

9. Leaf miners

Leaf miners can be found all over the country. While they won’t kill a plant directly, they weaken its integrity so that it is more susceptible to disease and further damage. These pests tunnel through the leaves and stems of plants and can be encouraged by excessive pesticide use. Therefore, the best way to rid yourself of these pests is by utilizing natural, organic control methods.

10. Slugs

Slugs will feed on just about anything, but more commonly infest gardens as they feast on vegetables such as cabbage, tomatoes, beans, and peas. They create irregular shapes in the plants they feed upon, preferring areas of high moisture. 

Have a lawn pest problem this summer? While you can prevent many of these common pests by maintaining a trimmed, well-kept lawn, remember that some are completely unavoidable. If you find yourself facing one of these pests, consider implementing a DIY organic control method or visit our Pittsburgh lawn care page to get in touch with a local lawn care professional right away.

The post 10 Lawn Pests in Pittsburgh, PA appeared first on Lawnstarter.

from Gardening Resource https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/pennsylvania/philadelphia/10-lawn-pests-pittsburgh-pa/

[vrheadsets]

In The Sights Of Bullet Hell: Archiact On Developing The Enemies Of VR FPS Evasion

VRFocus has been fortunate to get hands-on with frantic first-person shooter (FPS) Evasion on a couple of occasions now and early indications are very positive. Our most resent playtest with the title was at this year’s Game Developers Conference (GDC) where Peter ended up being particularly impressed by the visual quality of what he was seeing describing it a “‘wow’ moment” and that “stepping out into Evasion’s alien world, it looked so crisp and vivid that it’s was easy to forget this demo was being held in GDC”.

Whilst we’ve previously gone into details about the title’s background in another interview from that period, we also wanted to discuss a little more about that world you step into. So Evasion‘s developers Archiact – more specifically Jennifer Dowding (Senior Producer) and Ian Rooke (Senior Game Designer) – stepped up to provide some in-depth details about just what kind of threats you’ll be facing.

Who are the enemies of Evasion and what threat do they pose?

The enemies in Evasion are called the Optera. In game, very little is known about their origins. Scientists theorize that they evolved from insects, but it’s unclear whether they wear exo-suits or if the Optera themselves are cybernetic organisms. They use energy weapons, have the ability to instantaneously teleport from location to location, and can propel themselves using some sort of anti-gravity technology. Since their attacks are highly coordinated, it’s assumed that are governed by a hive mind or use some non-verbal method of communication.

The main campaign in Evasion takes place on a moon that orbits the Optera homeworld that is rich in a mineral called chloragen, which the humans use to power their ships and colonies. When humans first established a mining operation on that moon, there were some initial skirmishes with the Optera, but a peace accord was struck. Now the Optera have launched a full-scale invasion… but you’ll have to play the game to discover why!

What is Swarm A.I and how does it bring Evasions’ enemies to life?

Evasion is a ‘bullet hell’ shooter, so it’s vital that the enemies feel relentless and overwhelming. Our design team referenced the natural movement of real-world insects to inspire our enemy behavior during gameplay. We use our proprietary Swarm A.I. to ensure that enemies possess not only a distinctive set of weapons and abilities, but also a distinctive movement pattern that operates in concert with the other units. Some Optera travel in ways that can be predicted and anticipated, others zig-zag energetically, while still others use cover and the environment to keep out of range of the player’s weapons. Their attacks are highly coordinated, so that if you focus too much on one type of enemy you will likely to be killed by another foe. To survive in Evasion you need to pay attention to how the various Optera operate together and plan your attacks accordingly.

What inspired the diverse designs and abilities of the Optera?

The behavior and abilities of each Optera is based on the movement behaviour of real world insects. We took a deep ‘nerd dive’ into the individual traits of various insect species and then tried to apply those principles to the A.I. for the enemy races. Whether it’s mimicking the way ants use pheromones to ‘follow the leader’, or recreating how male rhino beetles will charge a competing suitor to impress a female, we wanted to make sure that there was a real world analog for each enemy class.

What are some examples of specific Optera and why are they challenging to fight?

Gnats

If you’ve ever walked into a hovering cloud of tiny black insects (and probably started sputtering and frantically waving your hands in front of your face), then you’ll recognize these creatures. Gnats are the most ubiquitous enemy in Evasion. They typically travel in small groups, and while they don’t do a ton of damage, they are great at slowly whittling down your health as you focus your energy on the larger enemies. Their movement patterns are erratic and can be hard to predict. But grabbing onto them with your tether and chucking them against a building is extremely satisfying – and they die with a very pleasing scream (courtesy of our talented Sound Designer, Gonzalo Lopez)!

Gnat Concept Art

Gnat Render

Gnats swarming in-game

Gnats in action.

Paragords

These are the Optera’s foot soldiers. Since there are no other bipedal Optera, it is believed that the Optera create Paragords by using parasites called nematodes to enslave humanoid races and use them in their legions. Paragords lumber into battle and use cover in a human-like way. They will often hide behind cover and lob mortar fire on the player. They fire their weapons in short bursts, machine gun-style, often while moving and changing tactical position. Paragords are dangerous because they’re so different than the rest of the Optera troops.

Paragord Concept Art

Paragord Render

https://www.vrfocus.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Evasion-Enemies-Paragord-tactical-retreat.mp4

Paragords make a tactical retreat.

Bombers

Bombers are modeled after pill bugs, or woodlice, a type of insect often found in old wooden houses. We thought it was cool how they ball up when threatened, so in our game Bombers roll into battle, plant themselves on the ground and then unfold into a mobile turret that spews blaster fire at the player. As an added bonus, if the players get to close, the Bomber will explode! (Which causes major area-of-effect damage). The best way to defeat a Bomber is to destroy it before it gets too close. As our testers have discovered, you ignore a Bomber at your peril!

Bomber Concept Art

Bomber Render

Bombers swarming in-game.

Dealing with Paragords and Bombers together.

How does VR help bring the enemies of Evasion to life?

VR is all about immersion, a core gameplay pillar that we’re always mindful of in developing Evasion. This extended to how we designed the enemies. For example, like their namesake, Gnats in our game create a buzzing sound when they travel, so players can locate them when they’re hiding behind rock columns or ducking behind buildings. Several Optera have been designed to ‘buzz’ the player, forcing them to to be constantly looking up and around. The landscape has been specifically designed to provide all sorts of nooks and crannies for the Optera to hide in, which ratchets up the tension as you make your way through the levels.

How does Evasion’s gameplay work to compliment the enemy abilities and behaviour?

Evasion is a sci-fi shooter that supports co-op, so the goal is to force players to work together. There are many ways to survive and prevail in Evasion, but the best way is to coordinate your attacks. For example, it’s smart to have one player keep an eye on the ground forces, while the other play keeps their eyes on the skies. Another effective strategy is to separate to draw enemy forces apart, and then pick them apart one at a time.

Who designed Evasion and when is the videogame coming out?

Evasion was designed by a close-knit UE4-focused team at Archiact, a studio entirely devoted to creating high quality AR & VR content located in Vancouver, Canada. We are a passionate group of developers who want to push the limits of what can be done in VR and create the kind of sought-after AAA experiences that players have been craving. We are targeting a Fall 2018 release for Evasion.

For more information on Evasion, check out the Evasion wishlist page over on Steam. VRFocus will have more news about the title very soon.

from VRFocus https://ift.tt/2HqpIIt

[aleclightwoodies-blog]

Attacking an invasive dog dog can be quite challenging.

Attacking an invasive dog dog can be quite challenging 0123movies The biggest challenge is when the dog's aggression has improved and it is not possible to identify real potential. The other challenge is if you have a "red zone" dog. I have heard from more than one client that they have a red zone dog. This phrase was first used in conjunction with Cesar Millan. It deals with issues of insurance and in particular with dogs that are the longest of the spectrum of aggressive behavior. The practitioners that I say dogs are not aggressive. Their dogs show the most important features, but this is not even close to the species considered as a red zone. Relationships and attacks are two different. They can go hand in hand, but they are different. A dog can be very hard to become stronger and may not be completely aggressive. Many of the dogs come to an end in shelters and maybe euthanized because they were unfortunately as the bed like a red zone. So what is this red zone? The red zone is when a dog sees red! They are very focussed and they have the same idea of ​​getting, killing, or destroying the source. If they can not access it, they can turn on who is the nearest. Imagine a fire that is not under a great fire control that destroys a home or catches a wood. The fire does not look at what is going on its way. So it must be there and it stopped. In the same way, a dog in this mental state (zone) must be stopped and taken into account by their handler. They are real issues and a professional needs to be handled. The handle may take very good steps to take a dog out of this state. Concerning a back or side dog or any type of emergency correction may be dangerous to even train. If you do not know what you are doing, you can contaminate a dog that this force does not need. It could enhance your relationship between trust and respect that you have learned. Immediate aggression must be addressed immediately, but there is only one method. If you have a dog that shows insignia signs, talk to a behavioral expert. Do not reduce it, but you will not give it by thinking you have a red zone dog.