Volume No. 8 September - October 2017 Issue No. 5

Topic Team A Special Issue Topic Team Animals Socrates on Trees/ Plants Atlas Reptiles Apollo Birds Rhea Flowers Nyx Co-existing Happily Micro Organisms Zeus Insects Midas Sea Creatures Poseidon From the Editor’s desk… Pale Blue Dot is a photograph of planet Earth taken on February 14, 1990, by the Voyager 1 space probe from a record distance of about 6 billion kilometres (3.7 billion miles, 40.5 AU), as part of the Family Portrait series of images of the Solar System. In the photograph, Earth’s apparent size is less than a pixel; the planet appears as a tiny dot against the vastness of space, among bands of sunlight scattered by the camera’s optics. Voyager 1, which had completed its primary mission and was leaving the Solar System, was commanded by NASA to turn its camera around and take one last photograph of Earth across a great expanse of space, at the request of astronomer and author Carl Sagan. Seen from about 6 billion kilometres, Earth appears as a tiny dot (the bluish-white speck approximately halfway down the brown band to the right) within the darkness of deep space. I would like to present to you excerpts from Carl Sagan’s book, Pale Blue Dot. Do not miss reading every word of this piece. “Look again at that dot. That’s here. That’s home. That’s us. On it everyone you love, everyone you know, everyone you ever heard of, every human being who ever was, lived out their lives. The aggregate of our joy and suffering, thousands of confident religions, ideologies, and economic doctrines, every hunter and forager, every hero and coward, every creator and destroyer of civilization, every king and peasant, every young couple in love, every mother and father, hopeful child, inventor and explorer, every teacher of morals, every corrupt politician, every “superstar,” every “supreme leader,” every saint and sinner in the history of our species lived there-on a mote of dust suspended in a sunbeam. The Earth is a very small stage in a vast cosmic arena. Think of the rivers of blood spilled by all those generals and emperors so that, in glory and triumph, they could become the momentary masters of a fraction of a dot. Think of the endless cruelties visited by the inhabitants of one corner of this pixel on the scarcely distinguishable inhabitants of some other corner, how frequent their misunderstandings, how eager they are to kill one another, how fervent their hatreds. Our posturing, our imagined self-importance, the delusion that we have some privileged position in the Universe, are challenged by this point of pale light. Our planet is a lonely speck in the great enveloping cosmic dark. In our obscurity, in all this vastness, there is no hint that help will come from elsewhere to save us from ourselves. The Earth is the only world known so far to harbor life. There is nowhere else, at least in the near future, to which our species could migrate. Visit, yes. Settle, not yet. Like it or not, for the moment the Earth is where we make our stand. It has been said that astronomy is a humbling and character- building experience. There is perhaps no better demonstration of the folly of human conceits than this distant image of our tiny world. To me, it underscores our responsibility to deal more kindly with one another, and to preserve and cherish the pale blue dot, the only home we’ve ever known.” - Carl Sagan, Pale Blue Dot, 1994 Let’s not forget that in this Pale Blue Dot, we are a mere spec. Let’s live happily and also learn to respect other living beings on Earth. Let’s all co-exist peacefully. This edition of Scribbles is our humble dedication to all living beings in our home, Mother Earth. Until the next issue ….

 Team Socrates 5. Animal racing traumatises them. Other animal entertainments such as racing of dogs and horses also Animals are cruel to animals – they prevent natural behaviours, cause the animal to become traumatised during ‘training’ and suffer untold agony all in the name of entertainment – a polite name for the gambling and betting that goes on at racing events. 6. Animals in movies are mistreated too. Even animals used for TV and film events are often badly mistreated Animals in Entertainment and harmed – particularly when filming dangerous or - Let’s stop this Abuse stunt scenes. 7. Dolphins are not comfortable in marine parks. Animals have long been used for the entertainment of Imagine the plight of an intelligent, affectionate and humans – this is yet another example of man wielding wonderful animal such as a dolphin in a marine park his might; of lording it over all living beings. Animals are – made to perform silly tricks for a few dead fish, this taken from their habitat, caged, ill-treated, beaten, and beautiful animal is kept in a small enclosure, away restrained from behaving in their own instinctive way. from his or her community, poked, prodded, and made to behave unnaturally each day. 8. Animal sports inflict serious injuries. The rodeo or calf roping events cause the animal to suffer broken bones, spurs and straps being dug into the skin, electrical rods, lassos that nearly break the neck, and more. 9. Fishing and hunting are grossly cruel. What else can be crueller than hooking a fish and pulling it out of water, the poor creature covered with blood all over? Imagine yourself being dragged out of air in a similar manner and maybe you’ll be able to understand the plight to some extent! Just like fishing, hunting too causes painful death to animals. And many times, when the wounded animals escape being caught by 1. Zoos and aquariums isolate the animals. Animals the hunter, they are left to die of starvation, if not due kept in zoos and aquariums are deprived not only to injury. of their natural habitats and climatic environments, 10. Animal rides are not innocuous either. Horse, they are made to suffer unnatural and cruel social elephant and camel rides are a common sight at many deprivation; even isolation. tourist spots and events. More often than not, these 2. Confinement is detrimental. Animals in zoos and animals are not fed properly and are worn out. Their other confined areas cannot exercise, explore, play, skin is often abraded due to ill-fitting equipment. They forage and socialise in a way that they are meant to are goaded into carrying the rider even when they can and they start to exhibit abnormal behaviour after hardly walk due to tiredness and sore foot. a time. This demonstrates how such artificial, man- L John Anand Antony, Production, Chemplast Sanmar, Karaikal. made environments are detrimental to an animal’s physical and emotional wellbeing. 3. Cages are not animal friendly. Many zoos keep animals caged in the name of conservation. However the prime aim of all zoos is the display of animals. The cages are designed with the visitors in mind and not the animals. 4. Circuses place unnatural demands. Circuses make them perform confusing and bizarre tricks with the aid of whips, collars, muzzles, electric prods and more. Why does a tiger have to jump through hoops and why does a chimp have to wear a skirt and ride a bike!

Guess Who?! Clue No. 1: He shares his birthday with Abraham Lincoln.  Charismatic Wildlife Wild animals and their habitats are clearly separable from the domestic animals and they live without human dependency. Animals, in general, are eukaryotic and heterotrophic organisms capable of moving their bodies, or at least body parts, by means of muscle or other contractile cells. Eukaryotic:

Team Socrates Team Animal cells have their DNA contained in a nucleus bounded by a membrane separating it from the other Conserving wildlife controls the ecosystem in a balanced cellular components. way. Ecosystem is a chain to support all living things Heterotrophic: and non-living things for existence. Conserving wildlife Animals cannot synthesise all their own nutrients but depend economically supports the country. Human fascination on consuming the bodies of other organisms to obtain the with the beauty of wild animals drives tourism worldwide. organic and other molecules they need for survival. This has the effect of boosting economy and creating jobs. Managed in the right way, tourism raises awareness Wild animals have their own homes (forests), but due to of the need to conserve delicate ecosystems containing problems of pollution and fear created by the humans they endangered animals. tend to lose their habitat and even their species. Humans kill D Manoj Kumar, Accounts, Chemplast Sanmar, Cuddalore. animals and trade them for skin, tusk and much more. As a reciprocation, wild animals intrude into the human areas. Already the endangered species list is huge which alerts us to conserve wildlife. Wildlife conservation helps to protect the l A lion in the wild natural environment and endangered animals. makes no more than 20 kills a year.

l Deer have no gall bladders.

l Elephants can recognise themselves, something very few animals are known to do.

l Californian sea lions can hunt continuously for upto 30 hours.

l The only mammal capable of flight is the bat.

The Tamed Ones to breed in captivity, pleasant disposition and temperament Domestication is the process of adapting wild plants and that makes it unlikely to panic in order to domesticate it. animals for human use. Domestic species are raised for food, Importance of animal domestication work, clothing, medicine, and many other uses. Domestic animals release people from the hard labour, make Civilisations all over the ancient world domesticate animals possible the transport of natural resources, provide fat and for various reasons, depending on which animals were protein for improved nutrition, animal milk for dairy needs, around them and what they could provide humans. Certain provide leather and wool for clothing and shelter, dried animals even took on religious significance in many manure for fuel. They were the sole source of agriculture till civilisations. machinery equipment arrived. Criteria for animal domestication Some animals domesticated for a purpose no longer serve Why hasn’t man domesticated every animal? that purpose. Humans themselves have changed significantly After all, a horse and zebra are as a result of animal domestication. In today’s world, we take pretty similar, but you will not animal domestication for granted. Living beings depend on see many people trying to ride one another for many reasons. Since we humans are the most a zebra. Animals must meet superior beings due to our intelligence, we seem to dominate some criteria like flexible diet, every other being on earth and exploit them. reasonably fast growth rate, ability K Rajasekar, Technical Services, Chemplast Sanmar, Cuddalore.

 Team Apollo Lizards - Can also be edible?! God created every living creature from water. Some of Reptiles them walk on their bellies, some walk on two legs, and some walk on four. This universe clearly belongs to all of God’s creatures. Reptiles have as much right to live in this world, as human beings. In totality, the entire earth is a common property of all of us. Any life should be valued. Reptiles cannot speak for themselves and for that Crocodile - The world’s largest living reason, we need to protect them. Protecting them is our reptile responsibility. Reptiles are from a class of animals. Snakes, lizards, Crocodiles, the world’s largest living reptiles, relish privacy turtles, crocodiles and tuatara lizard are members of the and warm weather, and thrive in still or slow waters that reptile family which has about 2500 species of lizards, provide plenty of camouflage (cover up). 250 different kinds of turtles, and about 22 different More than 200 million years ago, crocodiles roamed crocodiles. the Earth among the dinosaurs. Today’s crocodile began Lizards are very important species in reptiles. The largest evolving 80 million years ago, developing the traits that lizard is the Komodo monitor. It can grow longer than a have enabled its survival. Cold-blooded, they flourish in person. The smallest lizard is a tiny gecko. Lizards have a tropical habitats where they can bask (stretch out) in the lifespan of around 5-40 years depending on the species. sun year-round. Adult crocodiles live to around 50 to 60 Some lizards are years; however, some have lived as long as 130 years. useful for medicinal Historically, crocodiles were valued and hunted for their applications. For skin and meat. Today, destruction of the crocodiles’ natural example, Gila habitat for human use is one of the biggest threats to the monster produces survival of the species. toxins which reduce Relationship with humans plasma glucose. The The larger species of crocodiles are very dangerous to substance is now humans, mainly because of their ability to strike before synthesised for use the person can react. The Salt water crocodile and Nile as an anti-diabetes crocodile are the most dangerous, killing hundreds of drug. Another toxin people each year in parts of Southeast Asia and Africa. from Gila monster’s saliva has been studied for use as an Crocodiles are protected in many parts of the world, but anti-Alzheimer’s drug. they also are farmed commercially. Their hides are tanned and used to make leather goods such as wallets, briefcases, A news that published in Daily Mail UK reported purses, handbags, belts, hats, and shoes. that the oldest man on earth who lives in Bolivia has In religion passed his 123 years and survived because he regularly Crocodiles have appeared in various forms in religions eats lizard meat. This man is still alive today and has across the world. Ancient Egypt had Sobek, the crocodile 16 grandchildren and 39 great-grand-children. He is headed God and Taweret, the Goddess of childbirth and still strong enough to walk a few kilometres everyday. fertility, with the back and tail of a crocodile. Isn’t it amazing? Crocodiles appear in different forms in Hinduism. Varuna, Poluboyina Prasad, Research & Development, SSCL, Berigai. a Vedic and Hindu God, rides a part-crocodile and his consort Varuni rides a crocodile. Similarly, the Goddess personifications of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers are often depicted as riding crocodiles. July-Aug 2017 P Prabaharan, Production, SSCL, Berigai. issue Winner of the Spot the World Heritage Sites in India contest (announced in Scribbles July-August 2017)

Sheraya Lakhera d/o Neerav Lakhera BS&B Safety Systems (India), Vadodara.

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Team Nyx hate winter and remain dormant during the hazy seasons. It is considered holy by the Buddhists being one of the 108 Flowers auspicious signs. It is an important and well-known medicinal plant, widely used in the Ayurveda and Siddha systems of medicines for the treatment of diabetes, inflammation, liver disorders, urinary disorders, menorrhagia, blenorrhagia, menstruation problem, as an aphrodisiac and as a bitter tonic. Lily of the Valley In today’s modern world, the self-centred man has forgotten the needs of other species in the world. He has Perhaps one of the greatest scenic beauties transformed into a dictator where his own pleasure that you may witness on your morning rules the existence of other species. With the walk through the sides of the pond climate change worldwide, raining pattern on a summer daybreak is the has been disturbed and industrial wastes blooming of the blue water lily are dumped into the pond hence the life (Alli-Tamarai). Attractive in of lilies is at stake. No longer can we see a colour, it grows from 2 to 6 lily in a wild pond as our ancestors did. We feet in height and stands majestic have ended up watching it in a park where it’s with its petal beautifully domesticated. The pollen of a lily is consumed by unfolded in bright sunshine. many animals. Lilies cover up the pond with their The blue water lily is the petals and prevent the evaporation of water from national flower of Sri Lanka. the pond. Hence a natural protector of the basic It’s a marsh loving plant which grows human life element without the need of polystyrene from the bulb of a preserved lily. A good time to plant as suggested by the Tamil Nadu Government. it may be in spring or autumn. Being a perennial plant, it lives for 2 years and most bulbs bloom only once a year. Lilies U Pradeep, Planning, Sanmar Foundries, Viralimalai.

l Roses are related to apples, raspberries, cherries, peaches, plums, nectarines, pears and almonds.

l Tulip bulbs were more valuable than gold in Holland in the 1600s.

l Ancient civilisations burned aster leaves to ward off evil spirits.

l l The very expensive spice, saffron, comes from a type of crocus flower. l The largest flower in the world is the titan arums, which produce flowers 10 feet high and 3 feet wide. l The lotus was considered a sacred flower by ancient Egyptians and was used in burial rituals. l The juice from bluebell flowers was used historically to make glue. l Sunflowers move throughout the day in response to the movement of the sun from east to west. l Flowering nicotiana is related to tobacco, from which cigarettes are made. l Flowers may look sweet, but some are deadly. Carnivorous plants like the Venus Fly Trap get nutrition from eating insects.

Guess Who?! Clue No. 3: He was a child of wealth and privilege who loved to explore nature.  Team Nyx If you want your Jasmine to flower in summer then care in often and fed with a plant couple fertiliser every of weeks. watered be should Jasmine months, summer the During air.and light of plenty with conditions cool Jasminelikes Care Tips fragrance. essential oils. distinctive and syrup renowned and tea, making in frequently used also is is beauty Jasmine that ornamental plant its smelling for sweet a is Jasmine Jasmine (Malligai Poo) make grass and wigs. skirts goddess Kali. In Polynesia, Hindu dried fibres from the Hibiscus bark are represents used to Hibiscus red and A Hawaii Rico. of Puerto flower state the and Malaysia and Korea South of flowers national the are species Hibiscus Different Did you know? shape theplantaswell asencourageflowers. help will pruning frequent and misting, regular require and be moved indoors during winter. When indoors, they sun. Potted Hibiscus should stand outside during summer Hardwood cuttings grow well in a sheltered position in full Care Tips tea thatisamilddiuretic andcanlower bloodpressure. plants. floweringDried hibiscus flowers perennial can be and used to make annual a herbal of species a is Hibiscus Hibiscus (Sembaruthi Poo) When manhood’s passedbeyond thetomb” Are tokensthatalifewillbloom Throughout theworldfrom southtonorth, The trees thatbudandblossomforth, And seetheplainsofheaven arise. When we shallwakebeyond theskies, Are emblemsofabetterbirth, “ The flowers thatgrow togladallearth Gorgeous Blooms atHome 

Mexican name,acoctli. their by called were they when 1615, recorded in Westerners first by were many Dahlias world. has the now around that hybrids flower daisy-like a is Dahlia The Dahlia (AlliPoo) scent oftheJasmine plantisstrongest andisincredibly sweet. the sets, sun the headaches. When and migraines to lead can scent smelling strong this people some In plant. the of flowers the Jasminethan the smell of stronger buds a haveThe plant Did you know? and watered sparingly. the winter is and important it should be kept below 10°C Sanmar Foundries, Viralimalai. M Bharathidhasan, dahlias inbloomforafewdays inSeptemberyear. every 10,000 morethan see can UK. public the The in Dahlias of Penzance in Cornwall is the home of the National Collection Did you know? planted around eightinchesapart. are they that recommended is It sunlight. of abundance an and soil moist consistently need watering. They of lot a need do they but attention of don’tlot Dahlias require Care Tips Customer Support,

Team Nyx Lotus - Beautiful, Medicinal and Edible We value beauty for its own sake, yet many colourful flowers Seeds have much to offer beyond their good looks. Some can be The embryonic seeds for high fever, cholera (Chinese), used medicinally, others are good to eat, and many provide nervous disorders and insomnia; the seeds to stop vomiting, food and habitat for insects. Some flowers are threatened relieve indigestion and diarrhoea or just as a tonic. by habitat destruction just like birds and animals. Give Flowers multipurpose flowers a bit of space in your garden and prepare to be amazed at what medicinal flowers can do for Pounded petals for syphilis; for cosmetic unguents (Java); your health, your palate and your spirits. the flower stalk with other herbs to treat bleeding from the uterus. The Lotus, the national flower of India, is a symbol of supreme reality. To the Indian psyche, the lotus is more than Fruit a flower – it represents both beauty and non-attachment. The pods contain alkaloids that stop bleeding. There is a saying that although it grows in mud, it smells of Stamen myrrh. Toru Dutt, in her sonnet ‘The Lotus’, addresses the Lotus stamen is sweet, astringent, and neutral, benefiting the flower as the “queenliest flower that blows.” heart and kidney; it is mainly used for preventing discharge, Medicinal Properties such as treatment of leucorrhoea or for frequent urination. All parts of the lotus can be consumed which including its Significance of Lotus in Philosophy petals, flowers, flower stamens, seeds, and stems. Although, lotus is an archetype of beauty, it symbolises Leaves non-attachment. In his essay “The Secret of Work”, Swami The rhizomes or leaves are used with other herbs to treat Vivekananda opines, “Just as water cannot wet the lotus sunstroke, fever, diarrhoea, dysentery, dizziness, vomiting of leaf, so work cannot bind the unselfish man by giving rise blood, and haemorrhoids. The whole plant is used as an to attachment to results.” Even though the lotus is rooted in antidote to mushroom poisoning. mud, it continues to float on the water without becoming wet or muddy.

Healthy treats to our taste buds In South Indian states, the lotus stem is sliced, marinated with salt to dry, and the dried slices are fried and used as a side dish. In Kerala and Tamil Nadu, this end product is called ‘Thamarai Vathal’. The stamen and seeds are used in making fragrant tea and herbal tea recipes in Korean and Chinese cuisines. Research suggests that the remedies with lotus are particularly effective in tea form as tea is digested much faster. V Balaji, Development, Sanmar Foundries, Viralimalai.

Agave’s single blossom The agave plant is often called ‘the century plant’. That’s because it can flourish for years without growing any flowers. Then, at the end of its life, an agave plant produces a single flower and dies.

Moon flowers’ odd blooms Speaking of odd blooming patterns, moon flowers are another decidedly unique plant. While many flowers need at least a little sunshine to thrive, moon flowers bloom at night in the light of the moon.

Guess Who?! Clue No. 4: After securing an admission at one of Britain’s top medical schools, he  dropped out as he hated the sight of blood. Team Midas actually behappythatthey don’t know that. should We ants. million a over are there earth, on see about you human every Talk for — numbers colonies. super global species allover the world. They possess 12,000 than more have Ants ants. to compared when don’tchance a stand humans and variety about Talk sound! by and also but touch, chemicals e not only through t a c i n u m m o c ants seem, may it what to Contrary enslaved by themonhatching. be would which eggs the take and colonies other attack like security guards who defend the queen and ants which posts assigned have also They did. humans before years million 50 farming started had intelligence. They possess more than a few months. Leaving strength aside, ants also no survive can colony the dies, she if that important, So important. very is colony the of queen The not. do ants female while wings have ants queen and male The ants. of ants in a colony- the queen, the male ants and the female are social insects of the environment. There are three types colonies. in liveThey Ants humans! as bio-mass same the Moreover,have ants that know to many surprise would it student ofsimilarstrength wouldhave pickedupacar! grade second A weight? their times 50 as much as lift can ants that know you Did them. underestimate pride, and are indeed amazing. However, humans, in their ignorance ignored and considered weak when compared to humans, often are which Ants, ants. of nature the of description good very a also is courage describing up”.sentence This giving never and persistently patiently, working ant an of silence the lion’sit’salso roar,a isn’t always “Courage Ant -Lessonswe canlearn 10 Insects Good planner accomplish theirtasks. and decisions timely own their make They do. to how and do to what knows ant each leader, a without Even Decision-maker a leadertolead! without successfully running is management ants’colony that fact the by visible clearly Itis work. team and nature unselfish their of because success achieve to able are Ants Co-operation andco-ordination chaos, without disorder andconfusion. other the after one march always Ants Well-disciplined theycollect. They share everything They never eatalone. Unconditional sharing laying eggs,buildingnesttogatheringfood. from tasks, assigned of set a has colony the in ant Every Being organised we canlearnfrom them likethefollowing: Talk abouthumanqualities—there are loadsofthings Anandpratap Rajkaran Singh pest in resulting control. eggs, insect on feeding their for and qualities these for respect our deserve creatures inspiring awe- them. These from learn to aspire should we ants, of qualities mystical and amazing these all known Having summer foruseinwinter. grasshopper, ants definitely are smart to store their food in the and ant the of poem famous the from know you As , Flowserve Sanmar, Karapakkam. Grasshopper - Miniature Marvels Team Midas The Earth is unique in its own way and its rich bio-diversity pods usually in an unbroken sod or sometimes into the soil, adds another feather to its crown. There are innumerable a couple of inches underground. An egg takes almost nine species existing in the earth’s ambience and a large fraction months to hatch after which the baby grasshoppers are able consists of insects - small and large, beautiful and amazing! to interact with the outer world. Grasshopper is one of the unique insects in the Caelifera Sumanta Laha, Flowserve Sanmar, Karapakkam. family. Its size ranges from medium to large and it lives in the close vicinity of grass, as suggested by the name itself. It is famous for its ability of jumping upto a reasonable height or hopping capacity. There are more than 11,000 known species on earth. They have an extreme migratory capacity as they can travel over long distances in cold seasons. Unlike other insects in the mentioned family, the grasshopper is known for its remarkably long antennae and it is often longer than the grasshopper’s body. They use their long antennae in order to sense their surroundings. Grasshoppers have six joint legs by virtue of which they are able to jump to an extraordinary distance. Despite being large insects, grasshoppers are herbivores and have a diet that consists solely of plant matter. Grasshoppers consume grasses, weeds, leaves, shrubs, bark and numerous other parts of plants that surround them. In late autumn or early winter, female grasshoppers lay an average of eight egg

Silkworm A silkworm is a caterpillar that produces silk which is used to make thread or cloth. They are the larva of the moth native to Asia that spins a cocoon of fine, strong, lustrous fibre that is the source of the commercial silk. The various species raised today are distinguished by the quality of silk they produce. Silkworms generally feed on the Mulberry leaves and oranges. The moth (Bombyx Mori) will not bite making it an ideal worm for feeding most reptiles, amphibians and more animals. In the production of silk, manufacturers use silkworms’ Silkworms now depend on silk producers, laboratories and school children to propagate the species. In their cocoons to produce silk. It consists of a single thread of domestication, the moths lost the ability to fly, so wild silk that stretches to a length of 1000 to 3000 ft when population no longer exists. Also contributing to their unravelled. A pound of raw silk requires the use of 2000 extinction is the extraordinary fact that they only eat to 3000 cocoons and the silk manufacturers of the world mulberry leaves. produce around 70 million pounds of raw silk each year. Silk production is officially called Sericulture. Members of some cultures eat the silkworm pupae. Koreans create a snack food out of the pupae by boiling them in water and then seasoning them. This food is called beondegi. The Chinese use the dried bodies of silkworms to produce a medicine intended to relieve flatulence and bodily cramps. A silkworm a day may not keep the doctor away, but for some in South Korea, the silkworm proteins are the pathway towards less diabetes, less fatigue and stronger muscles. R Rajevan, Sales, BS&B Safety Systems (India), Chennai.

Guess Who?! Clue No. 5: He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1931. 11 Team Midas wasps, spidersanddragonflies. ladybugs’ main predators, but they also fall victim to frogs, are Birds terrible.” taste I else! something “Eat predators: tell markings Their reason. a for colourful are Ladybugs pests. plant-eating other and aphids eat they because them love farmers But humans. pretty,areto harmless and graceful, means it to must if they even what survive, do will ladybugs scarce, is food If Ladybugs practicecannibalism collectors canscoopthemupby thebucket. that numbers such in mountains the in gather ladybugs Convergent houses. people’s in nuisance a become can invader. home These beetles tend to move a indoors for winter, where they as reputation a earned have America, colony. Asian a multicoloured ladybugs, an of invasive species warmth in North collective the of advantage taking location, same the in gather may ladybugs of Thousands 5000 as many aphids. as consume may ladybug a lifetime, its Over beetles! they’re all, at bugs really aren’t Ladybugs The Ladybug 12 in zero gravity. escape would aphids how see to aphids with space into ladybugs few a sent even NASA ladybug. and beetle lady to shortened was eventually This Lady’. Our of ‘Beetle them named farmers the insects, invading the began pests out wiped when and came ladybugs After crops. their Mary eating Virgin the to prayed who farmers European by coined was ‘ladybug’ name The Most people like them because they because them like people Most strongest silk. orb weaver spider webs, and is believed to make the all of largest the spins spider orb-web golden The eating each other. A hungry hungry A other. each eating ladybug will make a meal of meal a make will ladybug n sf-oid iln it sibling soft-bodied any encounters. The most familiar species is the seven-spotted ladybug, ih t siy red-and- shiny, its with lc bd. n many In body. black utrs ldbg are ladybugs cultures, osdrd od luck. good considered elephants. weight. That’s10 lifting human a to equivalent own their times 850 lift can beetles Hercules goes into a lean survival mode. goes intoaleansurvival but they are expelled for the winter months when the hive summer, and spring the during hive each in live drones called drones the third class of honeybee. Several hundred are bees Male bees. other the of behaviour the guide that Queens regulate the hive’s activities by producing chemicals this collapse. causing is what sure not are Scientists disorder. collapse colony to due hives from disappearing are honeybees but wild, the in occur still species Manyhive. the protect and honeycombs, the build food, for forage They hive. the of outside around flying see ever people most bees only the are and females Workerall hive. are whole honeybees the running queen one with colonies in live Honeybees The Honeybee Training, ChemplastSanmar, Karapakkam. G Sanjay Kumar Worldwide, there are around are there Worldwide, pollen amongsttheflowers itvisits. andfruits disperse better to helps This vibrations. vigorous more and sizes larger their to due crops certain pollinating at successful more even be to appear Bumblebees plants. between it of transporters efficient more be and more pollen collect to them allowing legs, their on pockets and hairs stiff have bees all Fordo.example, they what at excellent all are they And world. agricultural our of pollinators as serve dutifully species these All bees. of 5,000 different species different 25,000 The enchanting butterfly ones considering these butterflies as their ancestors. These Team Midas monarch butterflies use sun and wind as a compass and Through the ages, butterflies have captivated our successfully survive their journey living 10 times more the imagination and delighted our senses with their beauty. usual life span. When you see a butterfly, you just stop for a moment and Human impact wonder about its beauty. The name butterfly came from its pale yellow colour; people in early centuries believed that A few centuries ago, when the human population on Earth these flying creatures are real fairies that stole butter and was smaller and less affluent, mankind required less land and consumed far less of the planet’s resources. Enough flew. None would have crossed their childhood without wild habitat existed to ensure that butterflies could move chasing a butterfly or getting fascinated by it. easily between their breeding sites. Since then the human Butterflies live in different habitats, including population has grown and has become increasingly wasteful mangroves, salt marshes, lowland forests, and greedy. Wild places have consequently diminished in sand dunes, wetlands, mountainous size and become increasingly fragmented and isolated. regions and grasslands. Habitat destruction across the world is caused almost Rocky areas and bare entirely by human activity. Urban expansion has the ground give larvae a greatest impact, but governmental policy on farming, place to find adequate forestry and road planning also has a very profound effect food and adults to lounge on the distribution and abundance of butterflies. in the sun. Following are some of the ways to save butterflies: Larger butterflies live longer l Help save grasslands than the smaller ones. The l Don’t use pesticides average life span of a butterfly is usually about l Do your part to combat climate change one month. Although l Educate yourself the smallest butterflies that From fancy dress competition in schools to South you can usually spot feasting on the flowers in your front American rituals, these butterflies always raise human yard live about one week. spirits. Without these wonderful insects, many plant species Yashkumar Makvana, would then be unable to reproduce and their populations Flowserve Sanmar, Karapakkam. would dramatically decrease. First day of November in C Chennakesavan, Mexico is celebrated as ‘The day of dead’ which marks Customer Support, the arrival of millions of Monarch butterflies from north BS&B Safety Canada all the way along America. People go to cemeteries Systems (India) Ltd., on that day, celebrate and communicate with their departed Karapakkam.

Interesting facts about Butterflies and Wasps l Vespa scooters are named after wasps - vespa means l In Amazon, butterflies drink the tears of turtles to get ‘wasp’ in Italian. necessary sodium in their diet. l Agricultural industry now regularly deploys wasps to l Wasps may sting if people come close to them. protect crops. l Wasps RFC is an English Professional Rugby Union l The butterflies eat harmful insects. A few act as a predator team originally based in London. The name dates of ants while others live as mutualists in association with back to 1867, a time when names of insects were ants. fashionable. l Butterflies are an extremely important group of “Model” organisms used for centuries to investigate many areas of biological reason fields such as navigation, genetics etc. M Sriram, K C Gopalakrishnan ERP, Chemplast Sanmar, Karapakkam.

Guess Who?! Clue No. 6: He went aboard the HMS Beagle, a ship, for five years collecting natural 13 specimens like birds, animals and fossils. National Flowers from around the World

14 National Flowers from around the World

Guess Who?! Clue No. 7: On coming back, he began to develop a revolutionary theory about the origin 15 of living beings that was contrary to the popular view of other naturalists at that time. Team Atlas each part of the tree holds in every singleaspect. ofthetreeeach part holdsinevery that properties the in also but structure, astounding an create most roots aerial its the way the in of only not – one trees magical is It tree. national our is tree Banyan category,particular Banyan “The Tree”. roots. the with one to belong juxtaposition in swing trees those all Surprisingly to used children and held were meetings village offer,eventrees the shadow dense the in Peoplemorning. the in survival their restleavefor take to flutter and day the of end the at down settle that birds of and wave goodbye when you leave. They shelter a plethora enter you when you welcome that road the of sides both at trees the about is It 80s. early the in hamlet native my It is nostalgic for me to think about my childhood days in we return. by the cuckoo’s cuckoo and ends in a pleasant mood when starts enthusiastically with the chirping of birds supported my in fruit that form a canopy. trees It resembles an orchard. Our day jack the and mango of about trees with flocked excited Houses township. get always I many reasons. for world this in co-exist should creatures God’s Trees -Adding value toLife 16

Trees/ Plants

In return what have we done to this splendid living thing? just whatwe needtosurvive! amount of carbon dioxide in the air and giving off oxygen the reducing wildlife, supporting soil, preserving water, conserving amelioration, climate quality, air improving oxygen, providing by environment to contribute Trees S Thangavel, nature’s rights. protect to mindset ‘Nature’sthe cultivate be should there we Yes,Rights’? should so rights, human about talk often society; civilised truly a of part are We immortal. potentially are trees but die, to programmed Humansare What canwe dotosave theEarth’s system? life-support

Uses Indian Culture Life Span

firewood etc. adhesives, plates, food biodegradable natural ropes, like which this tree doesn’t help. It also caters us in many forms l l l From medicinal to recreational, there’s no part of life in life of there’srecreational, part to no medicinal From l l by years ofaerialroot growth. ishidden becausethetrunk Difficult todetermine 500 to1000years ormore. area theycover. Banyans are theworld’s biggesttrees ofthe interms enlightenment underthistree. It isalsobelieved thatBuddha achieved resting placeofLord Krishna. It issacred asitsleaves are considered tobethe

Instrumentation, Cabot Sanmar, Mettur.

Team Atlas 17

issue 2017 July-Aug July-Aug , IAP II, Panruti. Stores, Chemplast Sanmar, Mettur. Chemplast Sanmar, Stores, R Raja Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh Khajuraho, Madhya Production, Chemplast Sanmar, Mettur. Chemplast Sanmar, Production, Congratulations to our first correct respondent: to our first correct Congratulations Guess What? Where? What? Guess source and used for soap production. There are lots of strains strains of lots are There production. soap for used and source their survival.on such plants, threatening Many products. economic many of warehouse a is desert The desert biotic interference. have plants Development activities, infrastructure, oil gas production, military operation, missiles testing and climate changes due many flora in the desert. destroyed to global warming, have D Ragu Ramachandran, In addition, the plants provide food, shade, and protection protection and shade, food, provide plants the addition, In for the fish and wildlife that live inand around the pond. they are Typically, divided into four groups - water lilies, submerged plants. floating plants and marginals, Aquatic plants provide many ecological benefits and aquatic of function and diversity are the promoting in essential systems. Risks country. every in problems plant aquatic are there Globally, Most aquatic plant problems are regional, but some plant species have caused significant agricultural, economic, and human health impacts worldwide. A description of those species that have routinely aquaculture, agriculture, been for problems global named serious causing in literature as in found be can security economic and people areas, natural the Global Database, Species Invasive and are listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) (ISSG). Group Specialist Species and Invasive J Ramasamy, He is most famous for his work on natural selection, the idea that all species is most famous for his work He - annual, succulent and shrubs. a number of plants with numerous population.The amount of rainfall in the desert is low and and survive. very Desert plants few have plants three types grow of adaptations A desert is generally referred to as Biome, since it supports other minerals. provide beauty - they also serve the very important function important very the serve also they - beauty provide Their valuable biological of balancing the pond ecosystem. filtration helpsremove nitrogen, ammonia, nitrate, and Aquatic Aquatic plants aren’t just used in the water garden to of life have evolved over time from common ancestors. time from over evolved of life have Guess Who?! Clue No. 8: Who?! Clue No. Guess is the use of its seeds. Oil can be collected extensively from the seeds, which is enriched with fat and protein. The energy oil an as serves diabetes, controls growth, hair stimulates colour and the fruit seems like water melon with taste, a also known as bitter bitter apple. The fruit can be eaten for its medicinal properties. The main application of the plant which is also known as thumba. It is a well-known sand dune dune sand well-known a is It thumba. as known also is which The stabilizer. roots are large and perennial, which leads to high survival rate in the desert. The flowersare yellow in of water. The cacti and succulent tress are highly adaptive for adaptive highly are tress succulent and cacti The water. of collecting and conserving the water for its survival. In the desert, one of the important flora is Citrullus colocynthis, Many desert plants have spines for defence and conservation and defence for spines have plants desert Many Desert Plant - Tough and Sturdy and Tough - Desert Plant Aquatic Plants - Balancing eco-systems - Balancing Plants Aquatic which causes green pond water. pond water. which causes green Water plants absorb nutrients and reduce light levels in the in levels light reduce and nutrients absorb plants Water algae, of otherwisegrowth could the which promote water, Team Rhea 18 & webbed feet are set far back on the body, The tail is short and wedge shaped. The legs large head, short neck, and elongated body. for a have They lined. stream adapted and ends) both is at (tapered fusiform is Itsbody body swimming. penguin’s The term ‘pen gwyn’. Welsh the from originated be to believed from is name are The Spheniscidae. of they family the and look unusual for their world the around popular are which birds aquatic flightless are Penguins The The Adventurous Aquatic 7. 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1. words. Parrots tosayhundreds canlearn of results oftheOlympics. In ancientGreece, pigeonsdelivered the Some duckssleepwithoneeyeopen. Owls devour theirprey whole. Cardinals liketocover themselves inants. animal. Ostriches have thelargesteyesofanyland speech andsounds. Ravens are great atmimickinghuman Birds Duckling. Ugly The and Tolkien’sJ.R.R. Rings, in the eagles) of of Lord king Pooh, Edgar Poe’s(the the Allen ThorondorWinnie Raven”,in Owl “The in Raven the Goose, Mother Potter, Harry in Hedwig and Chaucer’sNun’sin Chanticleer Priest’sLittle, Chicken King, Tale, Fawkes Future and Once The in of Archimedes Rime Mariner, Ancient The the in Albatross the include literature in birds Famous them alive. how muchwe needtokeep numbers plummeting,we’re learning rot andspread pestilence. With their could carcasses afterdeath,thatotherwise workscavengers ofcleaningup dothedirty But vultures are more vitalthanvile. The mighthave calledthem‘disgusting.’Darwin Save Vultures B Prashanth, to catastrophic consequences. lead potentially could which poorly oceans managing are we that warning serious clear a is population penguin of shipping and drilling population. penguin change impacts rapid industries The from pollution oil addition, patterns. In climate erratic increasingly and temperatures also harmed by the environment. areOne cause is the Penguinsrising ocean predators. lacks make home They their penguins. that sure for concern major a is Survival some ofthehabitatswhere theydwell. water,arerockycoasts and tropicalbeaches, ice, of blocks cold Besides colonies. their settle to land the on depend also they but water, the in time of lot a spend Penguins drain theliquidoutofnoseandexpelsalt. that glands special have they because water salt drink can voice, and that is how they recognise each other. Penguins prevent food from slipping out. Each penguin has a unique that structures throathavespiny and Insteadtongue their or km/h 8–9 at plunge at moderate depths at will. and Most of float them can swim to them allows this birds; flying of those than denser are bones posture. Their upright their gives which

Planning, Pentair Sanmar, Viralimalai. m/s. The penguins do not have teeth. have not do penguins The m/s. 2

Team Rhea Birds that do not fly The concept of flight is intimately connected to birds, but its absence is one reason why the group’s muscles are not all birds fly. There are about 40 flightless species of unsuitable for flight. Penguins, on the other hand, have birds living today. Most living forms belong to the order retained the keel, but it has evolved to accommodate the Struthioniformes (a.k.a. Ratites, which contains birds like birds’ flightless aquatic existence. the ostrich, the rhea, the cassowary, the kiwi, and the emu) Significance and the order Sphenisciformes (contains penguins). Flightless birds are used for their meat, oil and leather. Evolution Emu oil is said to hold medicinal healing properties for Many flightless birds evolved on small islands, where there joints and arthritis. Some birds are of national significance are no mammal predators to fly away from. These birds attributing to its identity as the national bird (Kiwi -New include the Flightless Cormorant on the Galapagos Island, Zealand; Emu - Australia). the now-extinct Dodo bird of Mauritius, many species of Human Impact rails (small marsh birds), and New Zealand’s famous Kiwi Increase in human exploration, poaching and deforestation birds. has lead to substantial habitat loss for these species. Morphological features Flightless birds are mostly seen in places where there are Birds like Ostriches, Emus and Cassowaries are simply too no predators. However, with human settlement, many large to fly. They do not need flight to escape predators; predators including dogs, foxes and cats destroy their rather they can run faster or defend using powerful claws. nests, eating their eggs. Some birds are preyed upon by Several birds choose to swim instead of flying. Penguins, animals like crocodiles, jackals and hyenas and are hunted for instance, have wings evolved into narrow paddles they by humans. In the case of penguins there are no land use to swim. predators; however they are at risk at sea from predators Flying birds have a keel, which is a main site of attachment like the seal and sharks. for flight muscles. Ratites do not possess this keel, and S Ranjith, Product Engineering, Pentair Sanmar, Viralimalai.

The Homely Birds They are killed for their meat. They provide us with egg. Hens will often try to lay in nests that already contain eggs “If I could fly” is a familiar phrase used to describe our and have been known to move eggs from neighbouring wish. It makes us recall our slam books of student life. Birds nests into their own. are undoubtedly, a species that are empowered with a gift to fly in air. They are one such wonder in God’s creation. Pigeon Their appearance and abilities are admired by many of us. Pigeons were used as a mail It is also common that some birds are grown domestically medium (messengers) in olden for their beauty, meat, medicinal purposes, etc. days. Their life span is around Chicken 5 to 8 years. Research say that domestication of pigeons Chickens have a life span of 7 to occurred 10,000 years ago. 8 years. Females over a year old Rock pigeons are the world’s are known as hens and younger oldest domesticated birds. Pigeon meat is known as squab. females as pullets. Adult male They are hunted for their meat. Trained domestic pigeons chickens over the age of one year are able to return home even if released at a location they are primarily known as cocks. In have never visited before and that may be up to 1000 km America & Australia, they are away. Pigeons feed on grains, seeds, greens, berries, fruits, known as Roosters. They often and will occasionally eat insects, snails and earthworms in scratch at the soil and feed on the wild. seeds, insects and even lizards, small snakes, young mice etc. J Ashwin, Planning, Xomox Sanmar, Viralimalai.

Guess Who?! Clue No. 9: His 1859 book, On the Origin of Species, contained a large amount of evi- 19 dence to back up his ideas and became a landmark work in the field of evolutionary biology. Wild and Dangerous Birds in the World

Team Rhea Team Australian Magpie: This medium-sized bird lives in grasslands, fields, parks and gardens across Australia. In spring, when nesting period arrives, the Australian magpie becomes very aggressive to protect its nest and attacks fearlessly. As the habitat of the Australian magpies includes residential areas (streets and parks), you need to be careful if you stay near them.

Mute Swan: Weighing up to 28 lbs, the mute swan is one of the largest waterfowls native to Europe. They live in ponds, rivers, wetlands and inland lakes. The wingspan of this large bird also measures up to 2.4 m. The cuteness of mute swans may force you to go near them. But keep in mind that they are aggressive and can pose danger to you.

Southern Cassowary: It is probably the most dangerous living bird in the world. It’s a bird which could definitely cause a fatal attack on humans, just like ostriches. Considering the size, Southern Cassowary is the second largest bird in the world – weigh between 75 – 80 kg and up to 5.1 ft in height. Like ostriches, the legs are the most powerful weapon of cassowaries.

Great Northern Loon: It is a large diving bird which also known as common loon. They have a length between 24 to 39 inches and wingspan up to 60 inches. These migratory birds spend their summer in lakes and ponds in Northern United States, Canada and Greenland. In winter, they migrate to South, to Pacific and Atlantic coastlines.

20 Team Rhea

European Herring Gull: Measuring up to 26 inches in length, European herring gull is a large gull found across Western Europe. These gulls are notorious for both stealing food and attacking humans. They have a wingspan of 49–61 inches and razor-sharp bills. So, serious injuries arise from the herring gull attacks.

Ostrich: The flightless ostrich is the largest living bird on Earth. Native to Africa, ostriches inhabit Savannas, deserts and grasslands across the continent. A fully grown ostrich weighs up to 150 kg and stands 6 ft tall. At a top speed of 43 m/h, it is also the fastest bird in the world. The long, powerful legs are the main weapon of an ostrich. Unlike other birds, ostriches have only two toes on each foot.

Do you know my name?

Barred Owl: It is a large, round-headed owl which is widespread in North America. They prefer to live in forests and woodlands. Barred owls are nocturnal birds and thus hunt only at night. The most interesting thing about barred owl is their way of flying noiselessly Guess the name of the bird and where it through the dense forest. It is due to the speciality of can be found. their feathers. Send in your entries to [email protected] V Jaya Vishagan, Purchase, Xomox Sanmar, Viralimalai.

Guess Who?! Clue No. 10: A total of 1250 copies of the book were printed and it went on sale for 15 21 shillings. It’s now valued at around $23,000. Usefulness of Algae Micro 1) Algae can double their numbers every few hours, can be harvested daily, and have the potential to produce a Organisms volume of biomass and bio-fuel many times greater than that of our most productive crops.

Team Zeus Team 2) Like any other plant, algae, when grown using sunlight,

consume (or absorb) carbon dioxide (CO2) as they grow, releasing oxygen (O2) for the rest of us to breathe. For high productivity, algae require more CO2, which can We are visible only under a microscope! be supplied by emissions sources such as power plants, ethanol facilities, and other sources. Algae 3) Algae can purify water. They thrive in nutrient-rich Algae are aquatic, plant-like organisms found residing in waters like municipal waste waters (sewage), animal oceans, lakes, rivers, ponds and even in snow. They can wastes and some industrial effluents, at the same time be found just about everywhere where there is light to purifying these wastes while producing a biomass suitable photosynthesise and water for reproduction. If life exists for bio-fuel production. elsewhere in our solar system, an alga-like organism is among 4) Algae can be cultivated to produce a variety of products the most likely to be found. for large to small markets: plastics, chemical feedstock, lubricants, fertilisers and even cosmetics. Algae can contain high levels of oils, carbohydrates, sugars and proteins, and can be used to produce renewable fuel, animal feed and even human food. In short, fuel, feed and food derived from algae can help provide the answer to many of our pressing problems. That’s why billions of dollars are being invested in the research and development of algae-based technologies. It won’t be long before fuels made from algae will start replacing petroleum fuels in your tank. Indeed, petroleum in large part derives from algae that grew millions of years ago. Sapan Kumar T, Sales, Pentair Sanmar, Mumbai.

Virus l Because of their shape, size and defined chemical structure, A virus is a non-cellular organism made up of genetic material viruses are used as templates for organising materials on a and protein that can invade living cells. In the year 1897, a nano-scale. scientist named Beijerinck discovered and coined the term Disadvantages of Virus virus. The term virus is derived from Latin word ‘virus’ meaning l In humans, viruses causes a wide range of diseases which poison. include HIV, chickenpox, influenza, avian flu, cold, sores Viruses are very small and they are measured in nanometers. and common cold. They can only be seen with an electron microscope. They are l Viruses can be transmitted from horizontally, i.e., from person composed of a core of DNA or RNA surrounded by a protein to person, like from mother to child. They can be vertically coat they can only reproduce by infecting living cells. Their size transmitted like in the case of hepatitis B and HIV.

ranges from 20 nm to 250 nm. l Viruses can cause cancer in humans and other species. Viruses Advantages of Virus that cause cancers in humans are included in the genotypes l Important function in marine ecology and carbon cycling. of human - papilloma virus, hepatitis B virus etc.

l Viruses have been useful in the study of molecular genetics Doshi Darshan Vinodbhai, Sales, Flowserve Sanmar, Jamnagar. like DNA replication, RNA processing, transcription, translation, protein transport and immunology.

l In genetics, viruses are used as vectors to introduce genes in the cell which are the case of study.

l Virotherapy is another use of virus where they are used as vectors to treat various diseases.

l They are used in the treatment of cancer and in gene therapy.

22 Team Zeus 23 gold, palladium and copper. of bacteria Harmfulness Several species of bacteria infectious are diseases, including pathogenic cholera, syphilis, and anthrax, cause and bubonic plague. leprosy of the bacteria can cause food spoilage. Most and garbage by surrounded be would we bacteria Without rotting dead things, we would not be able to digest our food and our bodies would not build immunity. Bacteria and elements. fungus base its are into back responsible it for turning and breaking forms all down in waste Small insects help with this but most decomposition of down broken is food like matter organic discarded or dead buddies. our microscopic by Vadgama, Suresh Nirav Mumbai. (India), Systems BS&B Safety Sales, Bacteria were among the first life forms to appear on Earth, on appear to forms life first the among were Bacteria in most and present of are its constitute habitats. Bacteria a large domain of Typically prokaryotic micro-organisms. a few micrometres in length, bacteria have a number of shapes, ranging from spheres to rods and spirals. Bacteria inhabit soil, water, acidic hot springs, radioactive waste, crust. and the deep portions Earth’s of the Leeuwenhoek van Antoine observedby first were Bacteria design. own his of microscope single-lens a using 1676, in then published his observations in a series of letters to He Leeuwenhoek’s were Bacteria London. of Society Royal the discovery. microscopic most remarkable of bacteria Use The nutrient cycle includes the decomposition of dead bodies and bacteria are responsible for the putrefaction stage in this process. Bacteria provide the nutrients needed to sustain life by compounds. converting dissolved In industry, bacteria are important in sewage treatment and the breakdown of oil spills, the production of cheese and yogurt through fermentation, and the recovery of Bacteria 7,000 species, 27,000 He married his first cousin Emma Wedgwood. Emma married his first cousin He and morphogenesis. in genetical and polysephalum has been used to study DNA-synthesis cytological studies. Physarum aleyroidis, aleyroidis, Empusa sepulchralis etc., types of insects. different insecticides to control are used as disease of rice, has been used to enhance growth of many plants. fertility of soil is increased. by Gibberella fujikuroi, the pathogen of Bakanee increasing increasing minerals and other substances, the thereby content and very of fat. little amount cheese, enzyme and organic acids. bread, steroids, vitamins and other compounds. steroids, Fungi Fungi like Neurospora, Yeast etc., have been used Fungi Fungi like Cordyceps melonthae, Aschersonia Gibberellin, Gibberellin, an important phytohormone produced By By decomposing the organic matter, fungi help in They are used in industry in the production of alcohol, of production the in industry in used are They They are used in medicine as antibiotics, alkaloids, They are used in food due to their high protein

Guess Who?! Clue No. 11: Who?! Clue No. Guess cells and distort of the perception power of humans. cells and distort power of the perception M Shah, w/o Mr Nayan Shah Darshika Dr. Baroda. Sanmar, Flowserve Sales, Regional However, the hallucinogenic substances may destroy brain destroy may substances hallucinogenic the However, l l l l l l l the largest biotic community after insects. of Fungi Activities Useful fertilisers and many other ways. Fungal biotechnology has become an integral part of the human welfare. The exceeds India in recorded fungi of number their utilisation in industry, agriculture, medicine, food textiles, industry, bioremediation, natural cycling, as bio and hidden wealth. One third of the fungal diversity of the globe exists in India. Fungi are beautiful and play a significantrole in the daily life of humanbeings besides has been the cradle for such fungi. Only a the fraction total of fungal wealth has been subjected to scientific scrutiny and mycologists have to unravel the unexplored Fungi The variety and galaxy of fungi and their natural beauty occupy prime place in the biological world and India Team Poseidon are unclear, our fish safety experts think that women who women that think unclear,are experts safety fish our exposure sporadic of effects health the While metal. that fish, other in Certain high occasionally also are tuna, light canned child. including young or foetus a of system consistently high in which mercury can harm the nervous Some fish, such as king mackerel, shark, and swordfish, are High metalliccontent Cons and flounder tuna, salmon. anchovy, cod, herring, including worldwide is about 154 million tons, with popular species fisheries all from yield annual people. The of millions for income provide and business global huge a are Fisheries Economic importance smell through nasal sac,fishare tohumans. really important to ability differences, temperature to minute ability radar,detect in built a as such characteristics With Pros any othergroup ofvertebrates. described species, fish exhibit greater species diversity than 33,100 With anglerfish). and (gulpers oceans deepest the of depths the to gudgeon) and (char streams mountain high from environments, aquatic can all They nearly water.in found of be bodies most in abundant are Fish role inthelifeofhumans. important very a water, play within fish species the of thousands the Amongst species. aquatic fascinating world’smost the of collection diverse richly a to home is world aquatic Our Kingdom Fish - Aquatic The Colourful 24 Creatures Sea

Toxicity problems a life-threatening haemorrhage. when one or more arteries in your brain rupture and cause developing hemorrhagic stroke. a This type of stroke occurs fish of danger of in you put can servings this that notes centre day.The three having to equivalent Center, fatty omega-3 of Universityaccordingthe is, to Medicalacids Maryland of grams three than more Consuming Hemorrhagic stroke risks precautions. are pregnant, as well as young children, should take special Bhavya Gupta, nervous systemdysfunction. nervous and impairment cognitive cause can them ingesting and supplements oil fish of manufacture the in used processes metals may be difficult to eliminate through some industrial fish.in accumulate can waterways in cadmium and These mercury lead, arsenic, as such pollutants Environmental 1. 4. 3. 2. 12. 11. 10. 9. 8. 7. 6. 5. Some fish, like The Triggerfish can swim Triggerfish The like fish, Some Many fish species are known to change sex during mouths. their opening even without taste can fish Many Most brandsoflipstickcontainfishscales. backward. Goldfish can distinguish the music ofone the music composer from another. distinguish can Goldfish Fish inpollutedlakeslosetheirsense ofsmell. Yoro inHonduras. city the onto sky the from rain fish of hundreds ‘Rain of Fish’ is an annual weather event in which Fish candrown inwater. 30 people. kill to poison enough contains Fish Puffer One Polar eats Bears and canlive upto200years. that Greenland in shark a is There to us. Goldfish can see infrared radiation that is invisible 11,417 sharks perhour. kill people while year per people 12 kill Sharks the courseoftheirlives. Sales, Flowserve Sanmar, Delhi. Team Poseidon The Water Dwellers - Whales, Sharks and Dolphins Whales are a group of aquatic mammals, believed to Sharks are classified as ‘fish’, characterised by their be living on Earth for more than 34 million years. ‘cartilaginous’ skeleton. Studies show that the earliest They prefer to live far away from the shores, and are known species of sharks date back to nearly 400 extremely fond of life underwater. million years. Since then, there are evidences of over 500 different species of sharks to be living on Earth. Whales are large in size, ranging in length from 9ft Sharks range in size from as small as 7 inches (lantern (the dwarf sperm whales) to 98ft (blue whale). Whales are shark) to as large as 40 ft (whale shark). Sharks are carnivorous, but are less aggressive hunters, mostly feeding commonly found in sea water, however a few species on fish, krill & other planktons. Whales have a normal have been found to live on fresh water as well (bull life-span, ranging from 29 years (for Killer whales) to 50 shark & river shark). Sharks have an average life-span of 20-30 years. Sharks are carnivorous, feeding on fish & other aquatic life. A few species of sharks also have the honour of being called ‘apex predators’, due to the swiftness in the way they attack their prey. (Steven Spielberg’s ‘Jaws’ movies have enough evidence to prove this!) Human interactions with sharks are normally limited to aquariums, although there have been few incidents years (for the Humpback whales). Our fascination with reported of sharks attacking humans in rivers. Sharks whales has existed since ancient times. Whaling (whale also feature prominently in Hawaiian myths, with a few hunting) by humans has existed since 2000 B.C., usually species worshipped as Gods. It is estimated that nearly for their meat & blubber (a layer of fat inside their skin). 100 million sharks are being killed for commercial & Earlier hunters used ‘Harpoons’ to spear these whales recreational fishing every year. Sharks are also common out of the water. English literature has references to the sea-food in Japan & Australia! fictional ‘Moby dick’ (a white whale in the story), and how whales were fanatically hunted by humans during those days. However, in 1946, the International Whaling Commission had placed a limit on whale catch for each country, to ensure survival of the species. There have also been instances, where oil spillages in the sea, from tanker ships have affected whales, leading them to wash up dead on the shores.

Dolphins, like whales are classified as aquatic a physique that resembles a ‘Torpedo’, dolphins can travel mammals, believed to be living on Earth for more than at speeds up to 60 km/h in water. Dolphins prefer to live 40 million years. Dolphins range in size from 5.6 ft to 31 in the warm waters of the Tropic region. Fish & squid are ft (some killer whales are also classified as dolphins). With considered to be the main diet for these creatures. Dolphins are considered to be highly intelligent and are known to communicate frequently with other species. Dolphins are normally gentle in nature, but when provoked, tend to exhibit violent behaviour. Trained dolphins are also used by the military of certain countries for various purposes, from finding mines to rescuing lost or trapped humans in the sea. The United States Navy Marine Mammal programme still train dolphins (only certain species) to carry out minor tasks. However, it was reported that the army had used trained dolphins in combat operations during the Vietnam and the Iraq wars. Dolphins also form a part of the local cuisine in Japan, Taji & Faroe Islands.

B Shivraman, Sales, Flowserve Sanmar, Delhi.

Guess Who?! Clue No. 12: He was known for not just studying exotic animals, but also eating them. 25 Team Poseidon pca gig n ee” coue lan o ol hw to how only buthowsurvive tothrive inalmostanyenvironment. not learn Octopuses here!” on going special “nothingsay, to if as inconspicuous, and dull is octopuses) facing the rest of the world (including other competing male half the but colour, of display psychedelic a with pulse will will split their missions the half of their body facing the mate Some octopuses, when spying a potential reproductive partner, its own adaptive capabilities. own its extend to relationships symbiotic in uses it that reveals defence bacteria deadly of kill use even its manipulate Finally, can uncertainty. and it that shows surprise, itself than stalk, larger much prey deliberately to ability Its and redundant its ituses reveals defence multi-functioning securitymeasures. that and bite offence a powerful for both and camouflage ink and an has cloud it That brain. central a and from order-taking and detect reporting of lot a given to do to is don’thave that power environment agents multiple the to of in changes lot to respond a directly which environment. adaptable in an changing has organisation it a show cells from skin changing learn rapidly The can it that show well-known systems containment its laboratory and on havoc shells) wreak to coconut ability (the tools of system. use security Its adaptable inspired biologically a in want would you characteristics the all almost reveals octopus The Octopus some ofthemstillexisthappily. but down come drastically has species living the of count to exist by continue virtue of their capability to adapt. It still is true that the they and earth on existed species living billion a existence, human of years of billions before Even to nature, tobreak down andfallapart. zone and has also caused the bridge connecting human life which has pushed many natural species to the endangered of knowledge of lack the world, modern in topic about talked least the is nature and life human of Co-existence with nature. relation their nullified nearly have beings human media, But with tests. the advent on of modern better technology and booming perform social may glory its all in nature to out open that windows with classrooms in Students 26 Under Water Marvels -Seal andOctopus

Ramanjan Ganguly,Ramanjan ways tosolve ourproblems andlive ourlifehappily. better few a - nature from learn to gentlemen, storming us to understand what’s happening? Time for some brain- around look to moment a take an beings human don’t we in thrive Why themselves. perfect to try or predict, plan, to power the to having without planet learned filled risk and unpredictable have organisms Natural andadapt. extentstosurvive use themtovarying organisms all but seals, and octopuses the as prominently Not all organisms in nature display these characteristics so ean cb dvr ta ae on i aes hr they where shouldn’t areas beuntilauthorities cangettothescene. in found are that divers scuba detain to them use also They teams. diving scuba their help to - The Unitedhumans States government has to used Sea Lions (seals) be can they helpful how to example an Just queries. our to don’t solution we any and find frustrations our all of most about clueless absolutely are we when for life our of time the calm be to us teach can They dog. a infected from itself get can and it dog that a is to disease world transfer this can to cause can seals that harm The of food&abettershelterforitsfamily. search way,in its comes that obstacles & hurdles million a overcoming lives, it as long day,as every seal a does So another insearch offoodandshelter. to place one from migrated often they knowthat to came we beings, human of survival of Fromhistory ancient the sea. at down go can it requires, it rest the get cannot it If rest. to land to come must therefore and and water cold in get tired can It people. from different no is seal A Seal

Sales, Flowserve Sanmar, Kolkata. Team Poseidon Living under water - Seahorses and Turtles Oceans cover 70% of the earth’s surface. Marine ecosystems Turtles support a great diversity of life and variety of habitats. Adults of most species are found in shallow, coastal waters, The ocean is a major influence on weather and climate. As bays and estuaries. Some also venture into the open sea. humans, we rely on the ocean a lot and it’s important to help keep the water healthy and monitor it for any changes that l Leatherbacks can survive in waters below 4° C. could impact the marine life. They are the largest species of turtle and weigh over 900 kg! They can also travel for more than 10,000 miles a year. Who thinks they would be great at a marathon?

l The temperature can determine whether the egg of a turtle will develop into a male or female. Lower temperatures can lead to a male while higher temperatures may lead to a female.

l Turtles are reptiles and cold blooded. Cold blooded animals get hotter or colder depending on the temperature of the environment they are in.

l Sea turtles have these special glands that help remove salt from the water they drink.

l Turtles have existed for 215 million years. They existed among the dinosaurs! It’s thought that turtles were able to survive the meteorite that brought the Seahorses dinosaurs to extinction all those years ago because they have amazing survival skills; when temperatures Seahorses are usually found in the shallow tropical and get too cold they hibernate, when it gets too hot for temperate waters throughout the world, living in sheltered them they dig into mud holes and wait. areas such as sea grass beds, estuaries, coral reefs, or mangroves. In Europe they are known to reside in the Thames estuary. l Adult green sea turtles are herbivores, but when they Many of the larger species are living in the Mediterranean are young, they feed on meat like crab and jellyfish.

Sea. Many species of seahorses are very territorial. The male l The shell of a turtle has 60 different bones all seahorses can have about 11 square feet of territory and the connected together. females can have up to 1100 square feet. Seahorses live in l Turtles have good eyesight and an excellent sense of areas that have still water or slow moving water because they cannot swim very well. It can be very dangerous for them smell. when there is a storm as it can affect their habitat. Somesh Sadhu, Sales, Flowserve Sanmar, Kolkata.

l Scientists decided that seahorses are fish. They breathe using gills and are classified as ‘bony fish’, the same group as cod and tuna!

l There are a total of 53 species of seahorses. Some of the smaller species can be under 1 inch in length while the bigger ones can measure up to 14 inches.

l Seahorses do not have teeth - they suck in their food and swallow it fully. They do not have a stomach either, so the food passes through their bodies really fast meaning they need to eat almost all the time.

l Seahorses are really clever and can camouflage themselves into their environment.

Guess Who?! Clue No. 13: Since 2000, his portrait has appeared on the back of the British 10-pound 27 note along with an image of HMS Beagle, a magnifying lens and flora and fauna seen on his travels. Crossword Across 1 2. the phylum to which birds and 2 reptiles belong (8) Eureka 3 4 3. type of venomous snake, 5 named for its colour (10) 6 7 8 7. small bird that feeds on the 9 10 nectar of flowers (12) 9. part of the brain associated 11 12 13 14 15 with balance (10) 11. top of the turtle’s shell (8) 16 17

18 14. type of lizard found in car

19 insurance commercials (5)

20 21 16. type of bird that is pink (8) 18. type of egg found in both birds 22 and reptiles (7) 23 24 21. the state bird of Illinois (8) 22. type of venomous lizard, ___ 25 monster (4) 23. type of constricting snake (6) Sudoku 25. fused collarbone found in birds (8) Down 4 8 5 9 6 1. largest lizard; ___ dragon (6) 3. reptile that takes care of its young (9) 5 6 9 4. the order to which snakes and lizards belong (8) 3 2 8 5. organ that detects heat in snakes (3) 6. type of bird that Daffy is (4) 7 8 8. a large bird of prey; red-tailed (4) 10. another name for warm-blooded (11) 2 7 12. bird that lives in the Antarctic, it swims but never flies (7) 4 5 13. eggs and waste exit here (6) 15. part of the brain involved in problem-solving (8) 7 1 3 17. number of chambers in a bird’s heart (4) 9 3 4 19. bird grooming (8) 20. reptile known as a “living fossil” of 9 3 7 1 8 New Zealand (7)

24. part of the egg that feeds the embryo (4)

K A

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M U L U C R U F

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Guess Who?! 24

M A L I G E

8 6 4 5 2 9 22 3 7 1

E N U U M

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1 2 7 9 8 6 3 5

He is the English 4 P

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E T O I N M A G H E

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naturalist, geologist and 17

I T E O L E

3 1 4 5 2 9 6 7 8 O K C E G D D E C A P A R A C K

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biologist, best known W

M U L L E B E R E C A O T

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H D O D R I B G N I M M U H

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7 8 5 9 for his contributions to 6 5

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the science of evolution, K 1 Charles Robert Darwin. He changed the way humans viewed themselves Designed by Kalamkriya Limited, and the world around them through his amazing 9, Cathedral Road, ideas on evolution and natural selection. Chennai 600 086. Ph: + 91 44 2812 8051/ 52 For Internal Circulation Only.

Editorial team: Sarada Jagan, Ramadevi Ravi, Shilpa Senthilkumar, SS Rameshwari, Veena Merrilina J, Harini Sekar