Giant Viruses
Scientists have discovered 1.5 Billion-Year-Old “Giant” Viruses in Yellowstone National Park.
- Refers to exceptionally large genomes compared to more common viruses.
- Do not pose any risk to humans.
- Provide valuable insights into a period when single-cell organisms were starting to emerge on Earth.
- Yellowstone National Park – Oldest and one of the largest national park in the US.
- Designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 1976 and a World Heritage site in 1978.
Doppler effect
The Consumer Affairs Ministry seeks public feedback on draft regulations for Doppler radar equipment used for measuring vehicle speeds.
- Change in wave frequency during the relative motion between a wave source and its observer.
- Observed in sound waves and electromagnetic waves.
- Application – Astrophysics, by police to check over speeding of vehicles, etc
Venus
According to a new study Venus is losing water much faster than previously thought.
- Nearest to earth and 2nd from the Sun.
- Brightest planet in the night sky.
- Has no satellite of its own.
- Unlike others, Venus and Uranus rotate from east to west.
Meitei Sagol
The Manipur Government has collaborated with different organizations to protect the Manipuri Pony, also known as Meitei Sagol.
- One of 7 recognised horse and pony breeds of India.
- Others – Marwari Horse, Kathiawari Horse, Zanskari Pony,Spiti Pony, Bhutia Pony and Kachhi-Sindhi Horse.
- Regarded as the original polo pony as modern polo is derived from the traditional Sagol Kangjei of Manipur.
Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary
Sri Lankan golden backed frog has been rediscovered after 200 years in India at Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Located in – Andhra Pradesh.
- Known for – Harboring Asian elephants.
- Rivers – Kaundinya and Kaigal tributaries of Palar River
- Type – Dry Deciduous forests with thorny scrub.