Meet the 'wooly devil,' a new plant species discovered in Big Bend National Park The plant, formally known as Ovicula biradiata, is especially notable for being the simultaneous discovery of a new species and genus. It was found with help from the community science app iNaturalist. James Doubek
Lunar Trailblazer sets out to find water on the moon The Lunar Trailblazer orbiter's launch window opens Feb 26. It's catching a ride with Intuitive Machines IM-2 mission which is landing on the moon near the south pole. Both have instruments for looking for water. Joe Palca
Did an Alzheimer's drug give Sue and Ken Bell more time? Maybe Sue Bell became one of the first Alzheimer's patients in the U.S. to receive the drug now marketed as Leqembi. Her husband isn't sure if it made a difference. Jon Hamilton
50 years after a seminal conference, big questions about biotechnology remain In 1975, researchers met to discuss the emerging field of biotechnology. The issues surrounding the field today are familiar. Nell Greenfieldboyce
How a uniquely human genetic tweak changed the voices of mice A new study shows that giving mice the human version of a gene changes their squeak, suggesting some of the genetic underpinnings of language. Nell Greenfieldboyce
Pro-science influencers take on wellness influencers As wellness influencers sharing dubious claims have taken off on TikTok and Instagram, some pro-science voices are trying to promote facts. Jude Joffe-Block
Elephant seals, fog harvesting and the brain science behind sugar cravings This week's Short Wave news roundup covers harvesting drinking water from fog, what elephant seals reveal about fish populations in the deep ocean, and why there's always room for dessert. Regina G. Barber
Why did the baby seal cross the road? It's not a riddle for this Connecticut city A baby seal was rescued from the streets of downtown New Haven, lethargic and underweight. He is now recovering at a nearby aquarium, which hopes to eventually release him back into the ocean. Rachel Treisman
How a uniquely human genetic tweak changed the voices of mice A new study shows that giving mice the human version of a gene changes their squeak, suggesting some of the genetic underpinnings of language. Nell Greenfieldboyce
Possible cuts to NIH funding could affect research in Alabama Possible cuts to NIH funding could significantly impact research institutions in Alabama, a state that has voted overwhelmingly for President Trump. Stephan Bisaha
