Latest news with #A-Z-Animals
Time of India
11-06-2025
- Science
- Time of India
White Sharks now found in this new US location
Source: National Geographic In recent years, shark sightings have increased significantly in areas like New York and Massachusetts. Great white sharks, once rare in these regions, are now frequently spotted in new waters. A recent study tracked dozens of sharks off the Maine coast, confirming a growing population. Researchers attribute this rise to conservation efforts and a rebound in prey species such as seals. As a result, white sharks are now expected to be annual visitors to the Atlantic Ocean near the north eastern U.S. This shift highlights changing marine ecosystems and the importance of continued monitoring and safety awareness along coastal areas. Great white sharks found off the Coast of Maine According to the A-Z-Animals reports, for over a decade, great white sharks have been increasingly appearing off Maine's coast. Initially, it was not a concern, but the trend took a deadly turn in 2020. In response to this unexpected shift, over 100 individual sharks were found at the place, and the researchers published their study in Frontiers in Marine Science. After the first fatal shark attack in Maine's history—off the coast of Harpswell—researchers from multiple organizations, including the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy, the Maine Department of Marine Resources, the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, and others, collaborated on the study. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo The data they collected revealed patterns in the presence and movement of great white sharks off the Maine coast. According to Matt Davis of the Maine Department of Marine Resources and the study's lead author, the proximity of sharks to shore and the time of the day they were spotted could be predicted only during the months the sharks were most active. 'We are excited to have this study published and continue to expand our understanding of white sharks in the western North Atlantic and the coastal waters in Marine,' Davis explains. 'This work could not have been done without the collaboration of many researchers and organizations, and we thank everyone involved'. The one point that the study did not discuss was why a great number of sharks are being found off the coast of Maine, and specifically in the Gulf of Maine. Why great white sharks are being found in the Gulf of Maine As great white sharks bulk up in preparation for winter, the Gulf of Maine has become a seasonal home for them. While there are several theories explaining the increase in their population, the exact reason remains unclear. Historically, Maine's waters were thought to be too cold to support a large white shark population. However, due to climate change and warming ocean temperatures, the waters off Maine's coast are no longer too cold for these apex predators. The Gulf of Maine is experiencing unprecedented ocean warming, with surface temperatures rising 97% faster than the global average. Record-breaking temperatures in 2021 and 2022—rising by 4.15°F and 3.72°F, respectively—have created ideal conditions for white sharks. Water temperatures between 55°F and 60°F, combined with a booming seal population, have drawn large numbers of sharks to the area. The seal population, which rebounded from a low of 6,000 in the early 1970s to now includes five diverse species, provides an abundant food source for the sharks. Places where white sharks are traditionally found In the past, only a few great white sharks migrated up to Maine during the summer and fall to feed before heading south for warmer waters in the winter. However, in recent years, there has been a significant increase in their numbers off the Maine coast. Before this surge, great white sharks were more commonly found off the coasts of North and South Carolina and Virginia. Shark attacks in northern waters were rare, as the sharks found ample prey in the Atlantic Ocean further south and had no need to venture north. However, as seal populations have increased off the coasts of New York, Massachusetts, and Maine, great white sharks have followed. This has expanded their range along the East Coast, making their presence no longer unusual, but a permanent fixture in the warmer summer waters of the North Atlantic. Also read| Most expensive Koi fish sold for a worth of $1.8 million; here's what makes the fish so special
Time of India
05-06-2025
- General
- Time of India
Most expensive Koi fish sold for a worth of $1.8 million; here's what makes the fish so special
Most expensive Koi fish sold for a worth of $1.8 million; here's what makes the fish so special Nishkigoi, commonly known as Koi fish, are a popular and striking species recognized for their vivid red and white coloring. Admired for their elegance and beauty so much so that even predators are captivated by their appearance. High value Koi are typically bred by prestigious Japanese breeders with decades of experience. Koi fish are not only elegant but possess other notable characteristics; they are strong, intelligent and resilient creatures that can live longer,with a life span ranging from 25 to 40 years. This fish is loved by many pet owners because of their friendly nature. Spending millions on Koi fish may sound surprising, but the factors such as- bloodline, pattern, size and gender, significantly determine their value. Female Koi are more valuable than males, as females grow bigger and have better body shape and color retention. S Legend Koi fish sold for a worth millions According to A-Z-Animals reports, in October 2018, S Legend, a Kohaku variety, brought in a whopping $1.8 million. The 39-inch colorful female carp was bought by Ms. Ying Ying Chung, a Koi enthusiast and collector, from the renowned breeder Kentaro Sakai. While a standard Kohaku koi that costs just $50, the price paid $1.8 million for S Legend was shocking. The reason for the high price was pretty clear, the particular fish species could lay up to 1000,000 eggs during one breeding season. Even if only 1/% matches the high-quality standards, it would yield a significant number of premium Kohaku koi- making a profitable investment. Additionally, Kohaku Koi can grow up to 50 inches, and their value increases as their size increases. But, the million dollar S Legend died in 2019 Types of Kohaku koi fishes There are a variety of Kohaku koi in the market, including: Asagi These are characterized by a blue or indigo body, and red at the base of the pectoral fins. They are one of the oldest koi varieties and are recognized by their 'net-like' pattern of scales. The red at the base of the pectoral fins is called Motoaka. Bekko Bekko koi are a simple, beautiful koi variety characterized by a solid colored body (white, red, yellow) with black sumi markings. Bekkoi koi have a simple stepping stone pattern. They are essentially Taisho Sanke Koi without the red (Hi) markings. Doitsu Doitsu are German carp that are scale-less. Depending on the type of Doitsu, there may be scales along the lateral and dorsal lines of the koi or no scales at all. Ginrin Ginrin indicates the group of koi varieties that have diamond scales on their entire bodies. These scales are different from metallic and Platinum koi due to their scales being reflective and shining in the light. Hiirenga / Butterfly Hirenaga Koi are the butterflies of the water, and are known for their graceful, flowing fins. The long fins and tail of the Hirenaga should be solid without tears and ideally should be symmetrical. Platinum Platinum Koi can grow to be jumbo and are most treasured when they have a beautiful solid metallic shine with no blemishes or scars. They shine beautifully in a dark pond, with their almost reflective bodies. Showa Showa are beautiful koi, with colors of white, red, and black painted across their bodies. Showa are one of the 'Big 3'koi fish along with Taisho Sanke and Kohaku Koi. All these fishes have different price tags, depending on their physical characteristics. The most valuable ones have a bright white on their tails, pectoral and dorsal fins. The value of Koi fish decreases due to the soft edging of a koi colour's pattern. Some less valuable species are Komoyo, Makibara, Kuchibeni, and Shiromuji. Colours of Kohaku koi fishes The colors of Kohaku Koi, depend on their age and sex. Female koi fish take more time to attain their red coloration, and they continue to retain as they grow older. Whereas, male koi fish develop their coloring early, but the color tends to fade as they age. Diet of Kohaku koi fishes Additionally, the diet of the Koi fish plays a major role in developing and retaining health and coloration. The diets of the fish should contain plenty of protein, spirulina, and krill to achieve the best results.
Time of India
01-06-2025
- General
- Time of India
Cat vs. snake: Who will win the fight
From rural backyards to the lanes of Indian towns, videos of cats taking on snakes are going viral. The clips are short but gripping, and they often leave viewers wondering: how does an ordinary house cat manage to challenge a snake and sometimes even come out on top? Snakes are often seen as dangerous, silent, quick, and sometimes venomous. Cats, on the other hand, are viewed as calm, curious, and playful. But when the two cross paths, especially in unexpected outdoor encounters, the outcome can be surprising. In many of these cases, the cat appears to take control of the situation. This trend isn't just about viral videos. It offers a real glimpse into nature– two predators with very different instincts and survival tactics. And when we look at how each animal is built and behaves, the results start to make more sense. Natural hunters at heart Domestic cats might live indoors and relax on soft cushions, but their natural instincts are still there. They're made to chase, stalk, and pounce. Even well-fed pet cats often hunt small animals like lizards, birds, and sometimes snakes. When a cat sees a snake, it usually doesn't get scared. Instead, it stays calm, watches carefully, and only attacks if it feels threatened. Cats rely on their instincts and quick reflexes, which help them stay confident in these situations. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Todos os idosos deveriam ter um desse no banheiro! Veja só! Evite quedas e escorregões Saiba Mais Undo Speed and reaction time give cats an edge Cats have a big edge over snakes because they react much faster. Reports suggest that cats can react up to seven times quicker than snakes. This helps them quickly dodge snake bites and strike back fast. Cats start building their reflexes and coordination just weeks after they're born. These skills get better as they grow, helping them stay safe and fight back when needed. Agility vs. direct strikes Snakes strike fast in a straight line, but their movement is limited during an attack. They mostly rely on surprise and one quick hit. Cats, on the other hand, have flexible bodies and great coordination. They can jump sideways, move back, or pounce from different directions– all in a flash. According to A-Z-Animals(dot)com, cats' unpredictable moves make it hard for snakes to catch them. Because cats can quickly change position, they often stay one step ahead in these sudden face-offs. The senses that keep cats alert Cats have sharp senses. They see well in the dark and can hear very quiet sounds that humans can't. Their whiskers also help them feel movements and vibrations around them. Snakes have some special abilities too, like sensing heat and feeling vibrations through the ground. But their eyesight isn't great, and they can't hear well. This often puts them at a disadvantage when facing a quick and alert cat up close. When claws meet fangs A snake's biggest advantage is its bite, especially if it's venomous. But the snake has to land the bite first. If a cat is quick enough to dodge, the snake becomes vulnerable. Cats use their claws and teeth to strike fast and often, aiming for the snake's head or neck. According to reports, many snakes have fragile bones in their upper body. Repeated strikes from a cat's claws can seriously hurt the snake before it can react again. Every encounter is different It's important to remember that not all cats win, and not all snakes lose. Big, venomous snakes like cobras or vipers can be immensely dangerous. Many cats naturally stay away or run if they sense real danger. Who wins depends on many things– the type of snake and cat, where they meet, their size, and how experienced the cat is. Outcomes aren't always predictable, and in areas with venomous snakes, even a small bite can be deadly for a cat. A fight of instincts, not just strength When a cat meets a snake, it's not about size but about instincts and quick reactions. Cats often win because they are fast, alert, and use their sharp senses well, especially against smaller or non-venomous snakes. However, these fights can be risky, and cats don't always come out safe. Still, their speed and awareness usually give them an advantage in many encounters. Note: This information is based on various online sources.
