Research explores whether turtles form social relationships by analyzing feeding interactions in a marsh. Using baited traps, social networks were constructed to test drivers of association. Species predicted grouping preferences, size did not, and no sex-based preference emerged. No evidence for “friendship” was found, but findings highlight overlooked reptile sociality and conservation relevance.

This research investigates how painted turtles survive months without oxygen through epigenetic regulation. By identifying gene-switching mechanisms, it aims to uncover biological strategies for extreme hypoxia tolerance. These insights could inform medical, environmental, and space applications, potentially extending human survival in low-oxygen conditions and advancing fields like transplantation and exploration.