The multifaceted nature of tree leaves is both a testament to great design and a reflection of their integral role in sustaining life on Earth. At their core, leaves are the tree’s primary energy converters. Armed with chlorophyll, these remarkable organs capture sunlight and metamorphose it into chemical energy through photosynthesis.

Photosynthesis is not only pivotal for the tree’s own sustenance but also for the broader ecosystem. As leaves absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, they play a linchpin role in maintaining the delicate atmospheric balance that life relies on. Additionally, their contribution to the water cycle through transpiration and cloud seeding cannot be understated, as it aids in temperature regulation and impacts local climates.

Yet, the marvel of leaves doesn’t stop at their biochemical processes. Observing the diverse landscapes of our planet, one can witness the leaves’ extraordinary adaptability. Their varied shapes, sizes, colors, and textures are designed to ensure the tree’s survival in a multitude of habitats. Whether it’s the narrow needle-like leaves conserving water in arid regions or the vibrant hues of deciduous leaves in temperate zones, each variation serves a purpose.

Equally intriguing are the leaves’ self-regulatory mechanisms for survival. Stomata, for instance, are not just mere pores on a leaf’s surface. They are gatekeepers, regulating the intake of carbon dioxide and ensuring minimal water loss in the process. And, in a world filled with potential herbivores, many leaves have devised their own defensive arsenal, be it through thorns, spines, or even toxins.

Yet, for all their biological wonder, leaves have intertwined themselves with human culture in profound ways. Their economic and cultural imprint ranges from their culinary and medicinal properties to their symbolic and artistic significance. In essence, while tree leaves serve as vital cogs in the natural world, they also enrich our human experiences in countless ways.

The life journey of a leaf is a captivating tale of growth, productivity, and eventual surrender to the rhythms of nature.

As seasons progress and daylight diminishes, the days of a leaf’s photosynthetic productivity gradually wane. By the time autumn approaches, a series of physiological and biochemical changes commence within the leaf. Chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for the leaf’s green hue, starts to break down and degrade

This degradation unmasks other pigments that were always present but overshadowed by the dominant green. Carotenoids, responsible for yellow and orange hues, and anthocyanins, which produce red and purple shades, begin to reveal themselves. This transformation results in the splendid array of fall foliage colors that many temperate regions of the world celebrate.

Concurrently, at the base of the leaf stalk, a special layer of cells called the “abscission layer” begins to form. This layer slowly cuts off the flow of nutrients and water to the leaf, and as a result, the leaf becomes more fragile. Over time, this layer becomes weakened, and external factors like wind, rain, or even the simple passage of time and presence of gravity can cause the leaf to detach from the tree.

This seasonal shedding serves a purpose for the tree. By shedding leaves, the tree conserves water and energy during the colder months when it would be harder to sustain its full canopy. As leaves fall and decompose, they also enrich the soil, providing the tree and other plants with nutrients to tap into during the next growth cycle. In essence, from the height of its photosynthetic productivity to its graceful fall descent, the life of a leaf embodies the cyclical and interconnected nature of life.

When a leaf drifts from the tree’s canopy and settles on the ground, it embarks on a new phase of life: decomposition. This process is vital, recycling nutrients back into the soil and ensuring the continued health of forest ecosystems. Decomposition isn’t just the fading away of the leaf; it’s an intricate dance of biology, chemistry, and environmental factors.

Upon landing, the leaf is immediately exposed to the elements—moisture, temperature, and oxygen—all of which influence its rate of decay. In moist and warm conditions, decomposition is expedited, whereas cold or dry conditions can slow the process.

The primary agents of decomposition are microorganisms such as fungi and bacteria. These tiny decomposers break down the leaf’s cellular structures, consuming the carbon within and releasing essential minerals like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium back into the soil. As they work, these microbes are in turn consumed by tiny creatures like springtails, mites, and nematodes, which are a part of the intricate food web of the forest floor.

Insects, particularly detritivores like millipedes and woodlice, play a significant role as well. They feed on the leaf, breaking it into smaller fragments and making it more accessible to the microbial community. Earthworms, too, have their part to play, dragging leaves into their burrows and mixing the organic material with the soil, further enhancing its fertility.

As weeks and months pass, what was once a vibrant leaf becomes an unrecognizable mixture of humus, minerals, and organic matter. This rich blend nurtures the soil, providing a fertile ground for new plants to thrive and, eventually, support the growth of future tree generations.

In essence, the decomposition of a fallen leaf is not an end but a transformation. It showcases nature’s remarkable ability to renew itself, turning decay into life, in a never-ending cycle of regeneration.

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Autumn blankets our gardens with a mosaic of fallen leaves, a spectacle of nature’s seasonal shift. However, these leaves, often perceived as mere yard waste, can be harnessed to benefit homeowners’ trees and gardens in profound ways.

Firstly, consider mulching. Instead of raking and bagging leaves to be discarded, homeowners can mow over them with a lawnmower, turning them into a fine mulch. This leaf mulch, when spread over garden beds and around trees, acts as a protective layer. It conserves moisture, suppresses weeds, and moderates soil temperature. As it decomposes, the mulch enriches the soil with organic matter and essential nutrients, fostering a hospitable environment for beneficial microorganisms.

For those keen on composting, fallen leaves are a goldmine. By adding them to compost piles or bins, they provide the necessary carbon-rich ‘brown’ material that complements the nitrogen-rich ‘green’ kitchen scraps. Over time, this combination breaks down to produce compost, a dark, nutrient-dense humus that can be mixed into garden soil to enhance its fertility and structure.

Another sustainable approach is creating a leaf mold. This involves piling wet leaves and letting them decompose over a year or two. The result is a fungus-driven compost, an excellent soil conditioner that improves water retention and provides a habitat for beneficial soil life.

Lastly, for areas aiming to support local wildlife, consider leaving a section of your yard untouched. Fallen leaves can offer shelter for overwintering insects, amphibians, and small mammals, promoting biodiversity.

In summary, autumn’s fallen leaves are not a burden but a boon. By understanding and applying these methods, homeowners can transform these leaves from mere debris into invaluable assets for their gardens and trees, all while embracing sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices.

This fall take an active role in rejuvenating the grounds around you house or property.  Instead of bagging and removing leaves, blow or rake them into piles.  Places to pile leaves might be flower beds, compost piles, the woods in and around trees.

By placing the leaves in piles there will be nicely composted humus piles in the spring for your plants around the house.  Leaves placed in piles around rose bushes will help to protect the bushes from desiccation over the winter months.

If there are school-age children involved, piling leaves is a great way to teach them about decomposition and creating new soil for the plants to grow into.  Of course they will also get to learn about beetles, worms, and lots of other creatures that might make a pile of leaves their homes.

In the Spring, your garden will benefit as will the trees and other flora you chose to share last year’s leaves with.

Tucked away in the eastern corner of Germany, adjacent to the Czech Republic, is the extraordinary Saxon Switzerland National Park. This enchanting realm offers a dramatic landscape, defined by its imposing sandstone cliffs, labyrinthine gorges, and dense, verdant forests. Its myriad trails, ranging from gentle strolls to challenging treks, invite hikers to immerse themselves in its natural splendor.

Bastei Bridge and the Schwedenlöcher Trail: This iconic trail takes you to the park’s poster child, the Bastei Bridge, which connects towering rock formations, offering breathtaking views of the Elbe River and surrounding forests. The Schwedenlöcher is a connecting trail that meanders through canyons and forested areas, delivering a contrast of both aerial panoramas and intimate woodland encounters.

Malerweg (Painter’s Way): Once an inspiration to painters like Caspar David Friedrich, this is an approximately 112-km loop that traces the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. Divided into eight stages, it’s a comprehensive route that covers the park’s most significant sights, such as the Barbarine rock pillar and the Elbe Canyon. Each segment is a journey through different facets of the park’s beauty.

Affenstein Promenade: Renowned for its rugged terrain and unique rock formations, this trail is challenging but rewarding. Offering views of the distinctive Carolafelsen and Domerker rocks, this trail also passes through the Kleinsteinhöhle, a narrow crevice between two massive boulders.

Goldsteig Trail: This shorter trail provides a serene experience, guiding hikers through lush forests and leading to the Griesgrund and Grüngrund valleys, where quaint brooks and moss-covered rocks create an ethereal setting.

Königstein Fortress (Festung Königstein) is one of the largest mountain fortresses in Europe and is located on a hill above the town of Königstein, near the Elbe River in Saxon Switzerland, Germany. While the fortress itself is not directly on the main hiking routes of the Saxon Switzerland National Park, several trails and routes in the area can lead you to or around the fortress due to its prominence and tourist significance.

One notable route is the Elbe Cycle Route (Elberadweg). Although primarily a cycling route, it’s also walkable and runs along the Elbe River, passing through Königstein and providing visitors the option to stop and explore the fortress.

For hikers, there are multiple paths that ascend the plateau on which the fortress stands. The town of Königstein serves as a starting point or a stopover for many of these routes. Once in the town, you can take local trails up to the fortress or even use the elevator that helps visitors reach the fortress with ease.

While the aforementioned Malerweg (Painter’s Way) trail doesn’t directly go through the fortress, the town of Königstein and the fortress are popular detours or side trips for those hiking this iconic route, especially when they are in the vicinity.

Schrammsteine Viewpoint: A series of jagged rocks that offer one of the most iconic viewpoints in the park. The journey to this viewpoint, though somewhat strenuous, is well worth the effort for the unparalleled views of the surrounding landscapes.

The Schrammsteine Viewpoint is one of the most iconic vantage points in the Saxon Switzerland National Park, offering panoramic views of the sandstone formations and the surrounding landscape.

To reach the Schrammsteine Viewpoint, you can take several trails, but the most commonly used and direct route starts from the town of Bad Schandau.

Here’s a brief guide to the hike:

1. Starting Point: Begin your hike in Bad Schandau. You can easily reach this town by train, and it’s a popular starting point for many hikes in the national park.
2. Ascending to Schrammsteine: From Bad Schandau, follow the trail markers leading to the Schrammsteine. The path is well-marked, with clear signposts. The ascent involves some steep sections, stairs, and ladders. It’s a moderately challenging climb but is accessible to most hikers with a basic level of fitness.
3. Schrammsteine Viewpoint: Once you’ve ascended the main elevation, you’ll reach the Schrammsteine ridge. From here, you can traverse along the ridge to various viewpoints. The most notable one provides a sweeping panorama of the Elbe River, the surrounding forests, and the myriad of rock formations characteristic of Saxon Switzerland.
4. Return or Continue: After soaking in the views, you can either return to Bad Schandau via the same route or continue exploring the area, as several trails branch off from the Schrammsteine, leading to other landmarks like the Bastei or the Affensteine.

The round-trip hike to the Schrammsteine Viewpoint and back to Bad Schandau typically takes around 4-5 hours, depending on one’s pace and the time spent at the viewpoint. Ensure you wear appropriate hiking shoes, carry sufficient water, and check the weather forecast before embarking on this beautiful journey through Saxon Switzerland’s heart.

Heringstein: A prominent rock formation that serves as a fantastic viewpoint and is also popular among rock climbers.

Heringstein is a unique rock formation located in the Saxon Switzerland National Park. As with many spots in the park, it’s accessible through a network of trails. While Heringstein may not be as popular or widely recognized as some other formations, it is still a worthwhile destination for those interested in exploring less frequented areas.

Several trails lead to Heringstein, and choosing one depends on your starting point, the difficulty level you’re comfortable with, and the landscapes you wish to encounter along the way. Here’s a brief guide:

1. Starting from Bad Schandau:
   • Bad Schandau is one of the main gateways to the park. From here, you can take the marked trails toward the Schrammsteine, and from there, follow the trail markers leading to Heringstein.
   • This route combines some of the park’s most iconic views, like the Schrammsteine Viewpoint, with the more tranquil beauty of Heringstein.
2. From the Lichtenhain Waterfall:
   • Starting at the Lichtenhain Waterfall, a popular attraction in its own right, there’s a trail that takes you through the Kirnitzschtal and then branches off towards Heringstein. This route provides a mix of forested paths and open views of rock formations.
3. Circular Route from Ostrau:
   • The village of Ostrau can serve as a starting point for a circular hike that encompasses Heringstein. This route can include other nearby attractions, providing a comprehensive hiking experience.

Kuhstall: The second-largest natural arch in the park, Kuhstall is a popular attraction and is accessible via a relatively easy hike. The nearby Himmelsleiter, or “Ladder to Heaven,” offers a thrilling climb and an exhilarating view.

The Kuhstall is one of the most famous landmarks in the Saxon Switzerland National Park. Translating to “Cowshed,” this is the park’s second-largest natural arch, and its size and location offer an impressive view over the surrounding landscape. The site also has historical significance, with legends suggesting it was once used as a hiding spot during wars, and as its name implies, even as a shelter for livestock.

Several trails lead to the Kuhstall, ensuring it’s accessible for hikers of various abilities:

1. From Bad Schandau via the Lichtenhain Waterfall:
   • Start your hike in Bad Schandau, a central gateway to the park. Head towards the Lichtenhain Waterfall, another popular attraction.
   • From the waterfall, you can follow signs and trails leading to the Kuhstall. This route offers a mix of woodland paths, open views, and encounters with multiple attractions.
2. Direct Path from the Lichtenhain Waterfall:
   • If you’re short on time or prefer a more direct route, you can start your hike right at the Lichtenhain Waterfall. From here, it’s a relatively straightforward path to the Kuhstall, with signposts to guide you.
3. From Altendorf via the Affensteine Rocks:
   • Starting in the village of Altendorf, this trail offers a longer, more challenging hike. You’ll first pass the striking Affensteine rock formations before reaching the Kuhstall.
   • This route offers a comprehensive experience of the park, encompassing dense forests, panoramic viewpoints, and multiple geological wonders.
4. Circular Route from Neumannmühle:
   • Neumannmühle, located in the Kirnitzschtal, offers a starting point for a beautiful circular route. This path leads you directly to the Kuhstall and back, making for a perfect day hike.
5. From the Grosser Winterberg:
   • For those seeking a more extended and challenging hike, the trail from the Grosser Winterberg to the Kuhstall is ideal. This route covers a significant portion of the national park and includes breathtaking viewpoints, dense forests, and, of course, the majestic Kuhstall arch.

For any trail you choose:

• Trail Markings: Saxon Switzerland’s paths are generally well-marked. Still, given the park’s extensive trail network, it’s vital to frequently ensure you’re on your desired route.
• Hiking Maps: A good hiking map is indispensable. These maps will detail all the park’s trails and can be crucial for navigation, especially if you plan to explore multiple sites in one day.
• Trail Conditions and Difficulty: Ensure you’re aware of the trail’s difficulty and conditions. Depending on the season, some trails can be slippery or more challenging.
• Local Expertise: Before embarking, consult local guides or the tourist information center. Their insights can be invaluable, offering updated information on trail conditions, durations, or even suggesting routes tailored to your interests.

Visiting the Kuhstall is a rewarding experience, granting both a geological marvel and sweeping vistas of the Saxon Switzerland landscape. Whichever trail you choose, the journey promises to be as enchanting as the destination.

Among the vast array of insects that inhabit our world, few command as much attention and intrigue as the praying mantis. Characterized by its iconic folded front limbs that resemble a posture of prayer, the praying mantis stands out not only for its distinctive appearance but also for its exceptional predatory skills. Delving into the world of this remarkable insect unveils a realm of stealth, precision, and brilliance.

To begin with, the term “praying mantis” commonly refers to any of the insects within the order Mantodea, which comprises over 2,400 species spread across numerous families. These insects are predominantly found in tropical regions, but they are also native to temperate zones around the globe. Their size can vary considerably, with some species measuring just a few centimeters, while others reach up to 10 centimeters or more.

One of the most striking features of the praying mantis is its head. Equipped with large, well-developed compound eyes that grant them a wide field of vision, mantises have the unique ability among insects to turn their heads from side to side. This allows them to scan their surroundings with minimal movement, making them efficient ambush predators. Coupled with their keen eyesight, mantises have specialized elongated front limbs designed to rapidly extend and snatch their prey. These limbs, covered in sharp spines, hold the prey securely, rendering escape nearly impossible.

The compound eyes of the Mantis religiosa, or European mantis, are marvels of natural engineering, optimized for the predatory lifestyle of these insects. Here’s a closer look at the features and functions of these compound eyes:

Structure: Like other insects, the mantis has compound eyes, which means each eye is made up of numerous small visual units called ommatidia. Each ommatidium functions like a mini-eye, collecting light and forming a part of the overall image that the mantis sees.

Wide Field of Vision: Due to the prominent placement and large size of their eyes, mantises have a broad field of vision. This wide field allows them to spot potential prey or predators from various angles.

Binocular Vision: One of the most remarkable features of the mantis’s vision is its capacity for binocular vision, which is the ability to perceive depth by gauging the difference in the image seen by each eye. This is especially important for a predator like the mantis, as it allows them to accurately judge the distance to their prey. The forward-facing placement of their eyes gives them a region of overlap in their visual fields, enabling this depth perception.

Motion Detection: While the resolution of compound eyes is generally not as sharp as the single-lens eyes found in vertebrates, they are exceptionally good at detecting motion. This motion sensitivity is crucial for a predatory insect like the mantis, allowing them to react swiftly to moving prey or potential threats.

Polarized Light Sensing: Some studies suggest that certain insects, including mantises, can detect polarized light with their compound eyes. This ability can help them locate water sources or recognize different types of reflections in their environment.

Color Vision: Mantises are believed to have color vision, although it differs from human color perception. They can perceive some wavelengths of light that are vital for their hunting and environmental interactions.

Adaptation to Light Changes: The compound eyes of the mantis can adapt to varying light conditions. They have more light-sensitive cells for low-light conditions, allowing them to be active during dawn and dusk. In bright light, certain cells reduce their sensitivity to prevent overstimulation.

Pseudopupil: When observing a mantis closely, one might notice a dark spot in its eyes that appears to move. This is the pseudopupil, and it’s not an actual pupil but an optical effect. It represents the ommatidia that are oriented directly at the observer, and it appears dark because the light entering those ommatidia is absorbed and doesn’t reflect back.

The compound eyes of the Mantis religiosa, as with other mantis species, are integral to their predatory lifestyle. Their ability to detect motion, judge distances, and perceive their surroundings in various light conditions makes them efficient hunters and fascinating subjects of study in the world of entomology.

The praying mantis’s predatory nature doesn’t just stop at small insects. Astonishingly, larger mantis species have been observed catching and consuming small vertebrates, including frogs, lizards, and even birds. Their hunting strategy relies on camouflage and patience. Mantis species come in a range of colors and patterns, allowing them to blend seamlessly into their surroundings—be it on leaves, flowers, or tree trunks. Once an unsuspecting prey comes within reach, the mantis snatches the prey with lightning speed.

Reproduction in the mantis world is equally as fascinating, albeit with a dark twist. It’s well-documented that female mantises, in certain conditions, may consume their male counterparts after or even during mating—a phenomenon known as sexual cannibalism. This behavior, while gruesome, is thought to provide the female with necessary nutrients for successful egg production.

Eggs laid by female mantises are encased in a protective foam-like substance called an ootheca. This structure safeguards the developing nymphs inside from potential threats and environmental conditions. When the time is right, dozens, or even hundreds, of tiny mantis nymphs emerge, already resembling miniature versions of their adult counterparts.

The life cycle of a praying mantis in North America consists of three main stages: egg, nymph, and adult. Here is a detailed overview of the life cycle of mantises in North America:

Egg Stage (Ootheca):

• • Oviposition: In late summer or early fall, after mating, a female mantis lays her eggs. She produces a frothy protein substance that hardens quickly, forming a protective case called an ootheca. This structure can contain anywhere from several dozen to a few hundred eggs, depending on the species.
  • Overwintering: The eggs inside the ootheca go through a diapause, or period of dormancy, during the winter months. The tough ootheca protects the eggs from harsh environmental conditions, including the cold temperatures of North American winters.

1. • Hatching: As temperatures warm in the spring, the eggs inside the ootheca complete their development. After a few weeks to a few months, depending on the species and local conditions, tiny mantis nymphs emerge from the ootheca.

Nymph Stage:

• • First Instar: Upon emerging, mantis nymphs are in their first instar stage. They already resemble miniature versions of adult mantises but lack wings.

• • Molting: As nymphs grow, they undergo a series of molts, shedding their old exoskeleton to allow for growth. Each stage between molts is called an instar. Mantises usually go through 5 to 10 instars, depending on the species and environmental conditions.
  • Development: Throughout their nymphal stages, mantises actively hunt and consume prey, gradually increasing in size. With each molt, they look more and more like smaller versions of their adult form.

Adult Stage:

• • Maturation: After the final molt, mantises reach their adult form, now equipped with fully developed wings (though not all species are strong fliers). Adult mantises continue to be voracious predators.
  • Reproduction: In late summer, adult mantises engage in mating. Males often approach females cautiously, as there’s a known risk of cannibalism by the female during or after mating.

• • Lifespan: After mating and laying eggs, the adult mantises have completed their life cycle. They usually live for a few more weeks to a couple of months, but as winter approaches, most adult mantises in North America will die off. The next generation is left behind in the form of oothecae, ready to begin the cycle anew the following spring.

The praying mantis’s predatory nature doesn’t just stop at small insects. Astonishingly, larger mantis species have been observed catching and consuming small vertebrates, including frogs, lizards, and even birds. Their hunting strategy relies on camouflage and patience. Mantis species come in a range of colors and patterns, allowing them to blend seamlessly into their surroundings—be it on leaves, flowers, or tree trunks. Once an unsuspecting prey comes within reach, the mantis snatches the prey with lightning speed.

Reproduction in the mantis world is equally as fascinating, albeit with a dark twist. It’s well-documented that female mantises, in certain conditions, may consume their male counterparts after or even during mating—a phenomenon known as sexual cannibalism. This behavior, while gruesome, is thought to provide the female with necessary nutrients for successful egg production.

Eggs laid by female mantises are encased in a protective foam-like substance called an ootheca. This structure safeguards the developing nymphs inside from potential threats and environmental conditions. When the time is right, dozens, or even hundreds, of tiny mantis nymphs emerge, already resembling miniature versions of their adult counterparts.

Perhaps the greatest threat, not considering birds, bats, spiders, frogs, and lizards is people.  More specifically, people with pesticides/insecticides.

Praying mantises, like many other beneficial insects, are affected by insecticides. Insecticides are designed to control or kill insect pests, but they often do not discriminate between pests and beneficial insects. When mantises come into contact with these chemicals, either directly or through their prey, they can be harmed or killed.

There are several ways in which mantises can be affected by insecticides:

Direct Contact: If insecticides are sprayed and mantises are directly hit by the spray, they can absorb the toxic chemicals through their exoskeleton or ingest them while grooming. This can lead to immediate death or chronic effects, such as reduced ability to hunt, reproduce, or avoid predators.

Residual Contact: Even after the insecticide has dried or settled, residues remain on surfaces like plants, soil, or other structures. Mantises that walk or rest on these surfaces can absorb the toxicants, leading to similar negative effects as direct exposure.

Prey Consumption: If a mantis consumes an insect that has ingested or come into contact with insecticides, the toxicants can be transferred through the food chain, a phenomenon known as secondary poisoning. For example, if a mantis eats a bug that has consumed insecticide-treated plants, the chemicals can affect the mantis.

Reproductive Effects: Some insecticides may impact the reproductive capabilities of mantises, either by affecting adults directly or by affecting their eggs or nymphs. For instance, a female mantis exposed to certain insecticides might lay fewer eggs, or the eggs she lays might have reduced viability.

Disruption of Ecosystem Balance: Broad-spectrum insecticides can significantly reduce the number of available prey insects in an area. This can starve mantises or force them to move to new areas in search of food, exposing them to new risks.

Given these potential harms, it’s crucial for gardeners and farmers to consider the broader ecological impacts when using insecticides. Opting for targeted treatments, natural alternatives, or integrated pest management (IPM) practices can help minimize harm to beneficial insects like the praying mantis.

Mantis religiosa, commonly known as the European mantis, is one of the most well-known species of praying mantises. Its dietary consumption, like other mantises, varies based on factors such as size, gender, and reproductive status. However, for a rough estimate:

An adult Mantis religiosa can consume insects roughly equal to its body size daily, especially when active or gravid. In terms of weight, it might eat prey amounting to 20-30% of its body weight in a day, though this can vary.

For a tangible example, an adult female Mantis religiosa, which can reach lengths of about 7-9 cm, might consume 2-3 medium-sized crickets, several moths, or a comparable volume of other insects daily. However, it’s essential to note that consumption can be sporadic; a mantis might eat a significant volume of insects one day and then eat very little or nothing the next, depending on the availability of prey and its energy requirements.

In general, Mantis religiosa is a voracious predator and will consume a variety of insects throughout its life, helping regulate pest populations in environments where it is present.  Since the lifecycle is a full year, gardeners and farmers wanting to use the mantis for pest control should allow a full year for the mantis to lay ootheca’s and increase their population.

For those wanting to increase the mantis population immediately, Oothecas can be purchased in bulks and deposited in the fields as needed for the spring hatching.

The cultural significance of the praying mantis is also noteworthy. These insects have been revered, symbolized, and even emulated in various societies. In ancient China, the mantis was a symbol of courage and fearlessness. Its poised and efficient hunting techniques inspired martial arts forms that sought to mimic its movements. Elsewhere, it has been seen as a symbol of stillness, meditation, and mindfulness.

The praying mantis, with its arresting appearance and impressive predatory prowess, is a testament to great design and ingenuity. The mantis is a master of ambush, camouflage, and precision, it serves as a compelling reminder of the natural controls and the wonders that the insect world. From its unique physical characteristics to its role in cultural mythologies, the praying mantis stands as a captivating emblem of the intricate dance of life on Earth.

Living among the Waves  – a multipart series focusing on the electromagnetic environment and what that means for our health and well being.

Living among the waves series will heighten your awareness of the invisible, but real, affects of radio frequency radiation (RF).  We pass through countless electromagnetic fields (EMF) daily and perceive nothing.  Does that mean RF has no effect on our bodies and the bodies of our children either born or developing?  Is there a causal link between RF, EMF and illness?  If we want to make lifestyle changes to limit exposure, what should those changes be?

To answer these questions and more, it behooves us to understand what Electromagnetic fields (EMF) are and how they have become so prevalent in our lives.  Perhaps our embracing of this suite of technologies was a bit hasty.  Just because we can doesn’t mean that we should.

We exist in a society where breakthroughs are common place and advances in most fields occur with such rapidity that no individual can possibly entertain any hope of keeping track of them.  It’s also apparent that no matter the field in question, wireless communication has in some measure made itself indispensable.

In our collective effort to be the best, have the best, and invest in the best, we seem to have abandoned our ability to reason and discern.  As a consumer society, we are increasingly dependent upon marketers/influencers to define our needs and wants.  Their responsibility is to imbue a desire in our minds with sufficient repetition that it becomes second nature to assume the story is true.

The Svengalis of new technologies want us to accept without question their technology imperative: because something can technically be done, then it should be done.  To a large extent they have succeeded, and we don’t seem to possess the will to transcend the Svengali moment, courageously looking future in the eye and  opting for a moment of pause and perhaps thoughtful contemplation.  Our children bear the brunt of our unquenchable thirst, a thirst we satisfy without regard to the many effects observed both now and yet to be revealed in the future.

When new technologies are introduced we are compelled to implement them.  Consider cellphone frequency labels of 3G, 4G, 5G.  These labels describe enhancements to frequencies and data rates.  Adoption of new frequencies requires new hardware be designed and old hardware replaced.  If we want the new features provided by  new frequencies then we must acquire new transceivers (cell phones) that can make use of the new frequencies.

What is driving our decision to upgrade our cell phones? is it a set of features and the overarching health implications of ownership or the inability to acquire a replacement device with the older frequencies.  Stated more succinctly, am I making the conscious decision to adopt new features or are new frequencies imposed on me by manufacturers (Svengalis) of equipment.

The same situation plays itself out in the purchase of laptops, PDA’s, PC’s, access points, wireless network gear, and other wireless enabled products.  The decision to acquire technology items is less to do with health than to establish or maintain a work/home environment that is less costly to support and less complicated to implement.

Often when confronted with sudden changes or overwhelmingly complicated situations, the tendency is to defer, relegate, or follow another’s example from someone we trust.  When acquiring new technology it is very difficult to be the expert on the many descriptive elements found listed on packaging.  It is even more difficult to maintain effective levels of knowledge pertaining to the health implications of use.

Effective management in any organization, including the home, comes down to making straightforward decisions based on the best information available.  This relatively simple approach streamlines the decision-making process and limits any confusion.  Establishing guidelines is a natural outcome of the decision-making process.  The best available information is used in making a guideline.  The guideline is then available to be applied whenever it is needed.

The use of guidelines is nothing new for any parent of a child.  It is a time-honored truth that parents universally seem to have an innate ability to establish guidelines for safe conduct, within which their children live and learn.  This is played out by the parental indifference to yearning by children at the grocery store.  It is also seen when a guideline becomes the condition by which play can occur.  Take for example the parental guidance regarding skateboarding.  It’s okay to go skateboarding, but it is not okay to skateboard without a helmet and safety pads.

A parent has a much broader frame of reference  from which discerning judgments can be made.   However, Just having a broader frame of reference does not translate to having knowledge that can be used to set a safety guideline.  To establish home/work guidance regarding EMF some research is needed.  Continue reading and begin/continue building your knowledge base.

When considering wireless technologies, children are surrounded by transmitters and receivers from the time they are infants onward.  Only recently have efforts been made to perform research on the effects of Electromagnetic Fields  (EMF) on children.  What is becoming apparent is that wireless technologies when used at an early stage of life can interfere with social development, learning, socialization, and have a demonstrable health affect on a child that can have lifelong potentially irreversible adverse biological effects.

In correspondence from the American Academy of Pediatrics to the Federal Trade Comission, the President of the academy articulated that “Children are not little adults and are disproportionately impacted by all environmental exposures, including cell phone radiation.”  [McInerny T.K.. Letter from President of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Thomas K. McInerny, MD, FAAP to the FCC. August 2013.]

For a decade or more the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry have advised that children two and under have no screen time.  Sadly infant and toddler use of devices is skyrocketing.

According to PEW research Children’s engagement with electronic digital devices is significant.  As a child matures their use of electronic devices grows.  Of particular concern are the tablet and smartphone columns.  These columns show a surprisingly high number of  children with exposure to EMF at a very vulnerable age.

Regulatory agencies like the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and International Commission on Non-ionizing Radiation (ICNIRP) hold that low level EMF exposure is non tissue heating and therefore safe.  The difficulty with the regulatory stance is the singular focus on tissue heating.  Recent studies are demonstrating non-thermal tissue levels of EMF can cause adverse effects.  The list of effects include induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), cardiomyopathy, sperm damage, DNA damage, carcinogenecity, and neurological effects to include memory damage.

[I. Belyaev, C. Blackman, K. Chamberlin, et al. Scientific evidence invalidates health assumptions underlying the FCC and ICNIRP exposure limit determinations for radiofrequency radiation: implications for 5G. Environ Health, 21 (1) (2022), p. 92]

Concern surrounding health effects of radiation have been present since the mid 1930’s when Marie Curie’s death was associated with prolonged exposure to radiation during her research.  More recently, member states of the European Union and the U.S. FCC have relied upon the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and others, for their guidance on occupational exposure from EMF  from all sources.

The standard upon which the IEEE bases their guidance is keyed to tissue thermal effects of EMF.  Generally speaking the IEEE position is, excessive heating is to be avoided.

According to other research-based organizations like the Oceania Radiofrequency Scientific Assessment Association (ORSAA), the IEEE guidance is lacking and only addressing a singular effect associated with EMF exposure.  ORSAA and others suggest the standards for evaluating wireless devices are not in keeping with the advancements in the supporting technologies.  Consequently, the FCC standards are not representative of standards necessary to adequately evaluate health effects of EMF and do not adequately protect the public from adverse health effects.

To set a standard for comparison and evaluation a reproducible effect had to be determined with regard to EMF.  The metric that was established was called the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR).  It became the guage by which a rate of electromagnetic energy absorption could be quantified.  The SAR is measured in watts per kilogram (W/kg).  The energy is measured over time at 6 minutes and 30 minute time frame.  The measurement is taken in a 1g or 10g volume placed within a 12-pound area containing homogenous fluid shaped as a human head.  A similar 220 pound plastic body is also used to represent the human torso.

A SAR of 1.6W/kg is the allowable head and torso absorption rate, whereas 4.0W/kg is permissible in the extremities (including the ear).

The measurement is taken in a 1g or 10g volume placed within a 12-pound area containing homogenous fluid shaped as a human head.  A similar 220 pound plastic body is also used to represent the human torso.

A SAR of 1.6W/kg is the allowable head and torso absorption rate, whereas 4.0W/kg is permissible in the extremities (including the ear).

The difficulties with this method of measurement are painfully apparent.  While we applaud the FCC and others for having and enforcing a standard, we also expect the FCC to remain current with regard to research and amend established standards to reflect the domestic and international peer reviewed research.

The one size fits all approach fails in many ways to address the variability in body mass present in the population.  Likewise, the constant salinity of the homogeneous test fluid does not adequately account for the varying densities of internal organic structures found within each body and the varying conductivity of different tissues.

The base assumption, upon which the SAR is based, is faulty.  The assumption is that harm to the body can only be caused by a heating effect to the brain or torso that causes a 1 degree Celsius rise.  Lower heating is safe and considered non-hazardous.

A complementary test method to the SAR is the Ambient Power Density (APD) method.  This measure uses watts per square meter as the metric.  Since a meter is a large area to measure the metric is reduced to a measurable milliwatts per square centimeter.  APD is used to measure the flow of electromagnetic waves in the sample size and it is typically a measurement taken at a distance from the source.

We can thank the NAVY and US ARMY for these measures of electromagnetic energy. In the late 1950’s there was a concern for radar operators.  Eye damage and epithelial tissue burns were evident, and the exposure limit was set at 10W/m.  This value became the standard and was adopted by the American Standard Association and the IEEE.  The measurement standard value has not changed in the past 70 years and is still in effect.

In 1996 the FCC established guidelines for allowable EMF RF for frequencies in the 300KHz – 100GHz range for the public.  These frequencies are inclusive of the widely known 3G and 5G cellphone frequency range labels.  Their guidelines were based on a 1986 report from the National Council on Radiation Protection & Measurement (NCRP) – a professionally troubled organization and the IEEE.

It is concerning that the ICNIRP and the IEEE do not consider non-thermal effects of EMF RF as significantly relevant.  This is particularly troubling when considering other professional organizations like the ICBE-EMF and ORSAA  have widely differing views which run counter to the official guidance.

The battle against the FCC guidance position has included in excess of 11,000 pages of published scientific studies supporting and recommending the FCC strengthen their guidelines.  The FCC largely ignored the submitted science and in 2021 the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit issued a judgement in Environmental Health Trust et al v. FCC.

The court found the agency negligent in providing a rational record of review and had failed to show evidence of examination of studies on the greater vulnerability of children to include long term exposure impacts.

The international regulatory bodies have been listening, and the once mighty FCC has, to some extent, lost footing in RF emissions standards governance.   Other countries have established significantly lower emission thresholds for the public, and the use of wireless communications.

The most interesting takeaway from the lower emissions standards is the ability of the population to continue using wireless technology, albeit at significantly lower power levels.

The knowledge base is growing and it is becoming increasingly more difficult for agencies like the FCC to justify their positions regarding EMF strength and the public health.  To what extent politics play a role is poorly understood.  Yet, there must be industry influencers that are pushing back against change, wanting to keep power levels where they are.

Keep in mind that it is in industries’ best interest to keep power levels high.  Higher signal levels translates directly into better device performance and overall satisfaction.  There is a real cost to circuit redesign and re-certification can be a lengthy process.  Unfortunately, when trying to introduce lower power technology into the high power wireless device marketplace, the matter of one device overshadowing all lower power devices is real.  To overcome the dampening effect, the FCC would have to issue new guidance to force low power adoption in all wireless devices.

The action for all is simple and straightforward.  Continue to bring this matter to the forefront of policy-makers’ minds.  Do this by asking questions of employers regarding potential health effects of wireless technology.  Let your doctor know you are aware of the health effects and ask their opinion on the matter.  Have conversations with school leadership personnel.  If you are fortunate to have contact with governmental policy makers, speak with them and share your knowledge.

This topic is a hard one for all involved.  We all use the wireless technologies, and to some extent, have become dependent.  So, what to do personally as an action plan.

Fall back on the skateboard guidance paradigm.  It’s okay to skateboard, but it is not okay to do so without a helmet and pads.  It’s okay to use wireless devices, but it is not okay to continually keep wireless devices near your body.  The most important first step is to distance yourself from wireless devices. Act on those things over which you have a modicum of control.

Take a proactive approach to removing cell phones from sleeping areas, and out of pockets.  It is proximity to the originating signal that causes harm.  A meter is about as close as you want to be to a cell phone or other wireless device.

Separate yourself from your cellphone.  Start with keeping the cell phone away from your body as much as possible.

Look into wiring your house for ethernet.  Having a network installed in the house is not as difficult as it sounds.  A good installer can usually accomplish the task in a day and have you up and running in short order.

There are many actions you can take to push back against the wireless effect on your health and to live among the waves.  Be sure to read our next article to learn even more about cellphone radiation and your health.

Forest fires occur globally in all regions of the planet.  Their frequency, intensity and extent vary significantly from region to region.  Some fires are quickly addressed in an effort to control their devastation wile others  are left to burn in an uncontrolled manner.

The impact from forest fires is felt across the globe.  It seems that where forests thrive there too forest fires present themselves.  The only regions of the planet where forest fires seem to not occur, or occur with much less frequency, is where there are no trees like Antarctica and the deserts of north Africa (that’s a no-brainer) or where the surface vegetation is sparse and the climate is very cold and wet.

Forest fires can be influenced by a combination of factors, including climate conditions (temperature, humidity, wind), fuel availability (dry vegetation), lightning strikes, human activities (negligence, arson, land-use changes), and forest management practices.

Types of vegetation also have an impact on forest fires. Pine trees and junipers contain flammable resins or oils in their foliage, bark, and branches. These resins are highly combustible and can ignite and sustain a fire, even when the tree or its surroundings are wet. The resins act as an accelerant, allowing the fire to propagate despite the presence of moisture.

While the surface of pine needles or juniper foliage may appear wet after rainfall or dew, the moisture does not always penetrate deep into the vegetation. The needles or leaves of these trees have a large surface area that can shed water quickly, preventing adequate moisture absorption. As a result, the inner layers of the foliage or twigs may remain dry, providing fuel for a fire.

Pine trees and junipers often have a buildup of dead and dry material, such as fallen needles, branches, and cones, on the forest floor or within the tree canopy. This dry material can ignite and burn easily, even with minimal heat, and contribute to the spread of fire.

Excessive buildup of this combustible material contributes to the severity of the fire. Forests with excessive underbrush and years of tree debris seem to have more severe fires that take down large trees.  Conversely, forests with minimal underbrush and tree debris tend to have fires of less magnitude and generally do not bother larger healthy trees.

Some pine species, particularly those in fire-prone ecosystems, have fire-adaptive characteristics. For instance, serotinous pines have cones that remain closed until exposed to the heat of a fire, at which point they open, releasing seeds onto the newly cleared soil. These adaptations increase the trees’ chances of surviving a fire.

Other trees develop thick bark that doesn’t burn easily and insulates the delicate phloam and xylem in the tree’s cambium growth layer.  The Ponderosa and Western Yellow Pine are good examples of this.  These trees also drop lower branches as the tree matures.  This helps avoid any fire from climbing up the tree.

The shortstraw pine also called the Southern Yellow Pine has an extensive root system and many dormant buds protected underground.  After a fire moves through the extensive root system releases its nutrients and the buds burst forth to regenerate the tree.

Other trees develop thick bark that doesn’t burn easily and insulates the delicate phloam and xylem in the tree’s cambium growth layer.  The Ponderosa and Western Yellow Pine are good examples of this.  These trees also drop lower branches as the tree matures.  This helps avoid any fire from climbing up the tree.

The shortstraw pine also called the Southern Yellow Pine has an extensive root system and many dormant buds protected underground.  After a fire moves through the extensive root system releases its nutrients and the buds burst forth to regenerate the tree.

Many plants in fire zones need fire either directly or indirectly to help germinate seeds.  The seed typically has a hard outer shell that allows them to remain dormant sometimes for several years, waiting for a fire.  It may be the intense heat of the fire, smoke, or the new surface nutrients in the ash that causes these seeds to germinate.

Examples of these plants are the Buckthorn family, Coffeeberry, Redberry, and Ceanothus.  These plants grow in the chaparral area of the American West.

When a fire burns through a forest there is a natural removal of trees that are not able to survive the heat of the fire.  Underbrush is also cleared by burning.  Often the trees that fall victim to a fire are trees that are diseased, dead, or very young.  The removal of these trees is a mechanism of the fire and their removal achieves many purposes.

Just as in your home garden, forests have a myriad of pests and diseases continually attacking its’ richly diverse fauna.  For many reasons the delicate balance of mechanisms keeping disease and pests in manageable numbers can sometimes fail and the result can become a blight on the forest threatening specific species of fauna, or threatening an entire stand of trees.  When a fire burns through the forest the pests and diseases attacking the fauna are removed or brought back into manageable populations.

Perhaps the most obvious change in the forest after afire is the removal of combustible material.  Removal of this material reduces the amount of fuel that subsequent fires will have available to consume.  Without large quantities of combustible material, subsequent fires burn with less vigor and have limited ability to consume large trees.

Removal of combustible material reduces the congestion of the forest and opens up the canopy above letting sunlight filter down to the ground.  This provides sufficient light for new seedlings and budding trees to grow.  Removing underbrush aids in increasing airflow through the forest.  This assists with reducing fungal growth on young plants.  With increased airflow comes airborne seeds to re-establish a ground cover which, in turn, contributes to the overall health of the re-generating forest.

Many consider ash as an annoying byproduct of wood fires.  It’s dusty, it clings to everything, it’s a powdery annoying material that can quickly soil just about everything.

Ash is terribly misunderstood.  Ash is the byproduct of fauna combustion and it is the indispensable component necessary in forest re-generation.

Without ash a forest would take significantly longer to re-generate, if at all.  Ash plays several important roles in ecosystems following a forest fire.

Here are some of the key roles of ash:

1. Nutrient Cycling: Ash contains various essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and trace elements. When deposited on the forest floor, the ash can contribute to the replenishment of soil nutrients. After a fire, the release of these nutrients from the ash promotes the growth of new vegetation and facilitates the recovery of the ecosystem.
2. Soil Fertility: Ash can increase the fertility of soils by raising the pH levels and improving nutrient availability. The alkaline nature of ash can neutralize acidic soils, creating a more suitable environment for plant growth. This can enhance the regeneration of plant communities in post-fire landscapes.
3. Seed Germination: Ash acts as a protective layer that can enhance seed germination. Some plant species have seeds that require specific conditions for germination, such as exposure to heat or the presence of specific chemicals found in ash. The presence of ash can provide a suitable microenvironment for these seeds to sprout and establish new plant populations.
4. Erosion Control: After a fire, the loss of vegetation and the exposure of bare soil can increase the risk of erosion. Ash, when mixed with soil, can form a protective layer that helps prevent soil erosion caused by wind and water. It can stabilize the soil surface, reduce runoff, and protect against the loss of valuable topsoil.
5. Water Retention: Ash can help retain moisture in the soil by reducing evaporation and improving water infiltration. The fine particles in ash can create a porous layer that traps moisture and increases water-holding capacity. This can benefit newly germinated plants and promote their survival during the early stages of post-fire recovery.
6. Microbial Activity: Ash provides a substrate for microbial colonization and activity. Microorganisms play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and decomposition processes. Ash can serve as a habitat for bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, contributing to the breakdown of organic matter and the recycling of nutrients.

Forest fires seem to have great benefit in maintaining a healthy forest – yet, fires have a downside too. When forests are not allowed to periodically experience a clearing burn the forest becomes increasingly unhealthy and combustible material abounds.

A sudden fire in these types of forests is going to be highly volatile and have great destructive capability.  The airborne particulates and volatile gases will certainly have a detrimental affect on those with health considerations.  Due to the intensity of the burn, the fire will easily jump breaks and roads.  Personal property and animals will be at heightened risk of damage and death.

Preventing forest fires is not necessarily a good idea.  Tolerating periodic burns will keep personal property protected and will help the forest remain healthy.

If you are in a position to advocate for controlled burns, then encourage these burns to take place under the supervision of a burn specialist from a local Dept. of Natural Resources.

If you have a house or buildings in a forested area, then make necessary changes to landscape and building materials.  Thermal energy transfer has three forms: Conduction, Convection, and Radiation.

Conduction is when molecules transfer kinetic energy to each other through collisions.  Convection occurs when hot air rises and allows cooler air to come in and be heater.  This is the wind associated with forest fires.  Radiation is when accelerated charged particles release electromagnetic radiation which can be felt as heat.  All three forms are present in a forest fire and will each have an affect on personal property.

When a forest fire approaches, with fire in the canopy of the trees (a sign of a destructive file), the property owner should expect fire heated wind to carry burning material unto the property roof.  Along with the wind will come excessive radiant heat able to raise the roof temperature of the property.  If the roof is made from combustible material, the roof material will begin to release combustible volatile gases.  Burning debris will float down from the engulfed tree canopy and land on the roof igniting the roof material.

To prevent this scenario from playing out, consider changing the roof material to a metal roof.  It is unlikely a metal roof will ignite.

The siding of property is also at risk for igniting if it is made from a combustible material.  Consider siding of rock, brick, plaster, or stucco.  These materials are poor thermal conductors and are not flammable.  Excessive heat will have marginal affect, and not result in volatile gases being released from the structure.

Windows will conduct  heat from electromagnetic radiation .  Prepare window shutters constructed from a non combustible material.  Functional shutters look nice and provide great protection for window frames and great protection against radiant heat igniting window treatments within the house.

Landscaping plays a role too.  If the property is ever surrounded in a forest fire, the landscape plantings will not survive if the fire is intense.  Plan not to have any pine shrubbery near the house.  The resins in any of the pinus species are highly flammable producing an intense fire once ignited.

 

Having animals in a fire region takes a bit more planning to ensure they are cared for during  a fir event.

Many factors go into planning for animal welfare in fire zones.  The best solution for horses, and other ruminants is to provide a pasture with a pond that has a fence line.  The fence line should be a distance from the forest to keep from igniting by radiant heat.  This is the area animals will be turned out into if a fire is approaching.  While they will be on heightened alert, animals will survive in a defined space.

During fire season the pasture will need to be mowed to keep the grass shorter.  Shorter grass doesn’t die off as readily as grass left alone.  Grass that’s left alone will grow tall, dry out, and be easy fuel for a grass fire.  If you are maintaining a pasture for fire safety the last thing you want is to have a grass fire where you have just put your animals.

It goes without saying that if animals are already housed in a metal barn it may not be necessary to keep them in a different pasture area

After a fire in a rural setting it is not unusual to be without power, roads, and cell service.  Develop a plan to care for animals for at least a month following the fire.  This means putting away grain and hay sufficient to feed all the animals.  Depending on what species are kept, there might be an assortment of different foods necessary to stockpile.  For ruminants the grass that may have been burned off during the fire should grow back in a month enough for feeding to resume.

After a fire in a rural setting it is not unusual to be without power, roads, and cell service.  Develop a plan to care for animals for at least a month following the fire.  This means putting away grain and hay sufficient to feed all the animals.  Depending on what species are kept, there might be an assortment of different foods necessary to stockpile.  For ruminants the grass that may have been burned off during the fire should grow back in a month enough for feeding to resume.

Consider building a feed barn that is fire proof.  This can be done using cinder block, brick, concrete, steele, etc.  Use a metal roof with steel trusses for support.  This is where the backup generator, and ifuel tank will be housed.  Depending on water sources, the well head might be located close nearby.

Don’t expect streams to be capable of providing clean water for some time after a fire.  When forests are reduced to ash, the heavy metals and other persistent environmental toxins leach from the ash into water run-off and raise toxin levels in natural streams.

Forest fires will always be a mixed blessing.  Planning for how to address a fire before a fire exists will make all the difference in so many ways.