It seems that everywhere we look there is discouraging news regarding the state of our global environment, so it is refreshing when we hear something positive in the field of science. In October, The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) announced its discovery of a new species of Logperch (Percina apina) in the Tennessee River. What is even more encouraging is that this species, who feeds on aquatic insects that hide out under stones along the creek bed, is an indication of good water quality in the area. The TVA’s work and discovery highlights the importance of regular, thorough field research in the maintenance or restoration of healthy ecosystems.
Click here for the full article (which will also direct you to a link to the peer-reviewed research paper introducing the species).