FORMALDEHYDE IN HOT SPRINGS

Low concentrations (M) of formaldehyde have been found in four hot springs, two in Iceland, one in Mexico and one in Southern California. A polarographic method for analyzing natural solution for formaldehyde and acetaldehyde is described. A review of other occurrences of formaldehyde in natural solutions is also included.     

Habitat Use and Ranging of Wild Bonobos (Pan paniscus) at Wamba

The relationship between vegetation and ranging patterns of wild bonobos at Wamba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, was examined. Via Landsat data, we distinguished three types of vegetation—dry forest, swamp forest, and disturbed forest—at Wamba. The home ranges of the study groups changed considerably from year to year, due mainly to intergroup relationships. The population density of each group varied between 1.4 and 2.5 individuals per km ² and was lowest during a period of population increase. Home ranges consisted mainly of dry forest. The bonobos used dry forest more frequently than the other forest types, though they also used swamp and disturbed forest almost every day. The latter types of forest seemed to be important resources for the bonobos, owing to the abundant herbaceous plants that are rich in protein and constantly available. The bonobos tended to use dry forest more frequently in the rainy season than in the relatively dry season, probably because the favored fruits in the dry forest were mostly available in the rainy season. There was no seasonal difference in the size of the daily ranging area.     

Chimpanzees Today

Chimpanzees Today. 2001. 36 minutes, color. video by Anne Zeller. For more information, contact Insight Media, 2162 Broadway, New York, NY 10024-0621.     

Chemical evolution and the evolution of the Earth's crust

It is hypothesized that there is a close relationship between the geologic evolution of the global plates of the Earth's crust and the chemical evolution of life on the Earth. Characteristics of the axes of plate spreading are discussed in relation to postulated environments conducive to the synthesis of chemical compounds thought to be important biological precursors. Likely locations forin situ measurements to test the hypothesis are identified.