The coffee mood: As many avid coffee aficionados are aware, coffee can provide a huge mood boost. However, this effect isn’t just due to the caffeine. Other compounds found in coffee beans – called polyphenols – are converted by our gut microbes into biologically active molecules which in turn affect brain function, leading to improved mood over time!
Read more here.
Mammoth or fish? A new species of ghost pipefish has been found in the Great Barrier Reef and it is covered in red, woolly camouflage! The fish has been given the scientific name Solenostomus snuffleupagus, named after Mr. Snuffleupagus – Big Bird’s woolly mammoth friend from Sesame Street. Its unique camouflage allows the ghost pipefish to blend in with its brightly coloured coral habitat. However, it is only the length of a matchstick, so don’t be surprised if you miss it on your next snorkelling trip!
Read more here and the original scientific article here.
Be gone blood-suckers: It turns out that garlic isn’t just good for deterring vampires. Scientists recently discovered that when mosquitoes and fruit flies taste garlic, it blocks their mating and egg-laying activity – acting as a type of “birth control”. Bring on the hummus!
Read more here.
