Why are those slender, long-necked, spindly-legged birds called flamingos such a lovely shade of pink? It is believed that microscopic algae called spirulina that form the major part of the bird’s diet, gives flamingos their characteristic color. Called beta-carotene, the substance is also found in shrimps and other water creatures that the flamingos eat. If…
Today is Lunar Eclipse. Lunar eclipses occur when the moon dives into Earth’s shadow, during the satellite’s full phase. But eclipses don’t happen every month because the moon’s orbit around Earth is slightly out of plane with the planet’s path around the sun. When the moon, Earth and sun line up exactly right, a total lunar…
Yes. The soil is indeed important for growing plants as it provides support, water, and nutrients. But if these needs can be satisfied by other means, then soil can be done away with. Some plants can grow in plain water in a vase. Their roots are able to extract oxygen dissolved in the water, while…
Indians call the bamboo ‘green gold’ because it is of such great importance. The bamboo is called the poor man’s timber’ because it is cheap and available in plenty. Bamboos are lightweight, being hollow, ramrod-straight, strong and long-lasting. Whole houses are built in the tropics with bamboo. City dwellers are familiar with the bamboo scaffolding…
If a poll were taken throughout continental Europe to determine the most popular bird, the white stork would win hands down. This large bird, with its snowy plumage, black wing feathers and red bill and long red legs has a special place in people’s hearts. The stork is regarded as the bringer of babies from…
