Science & Nature News

The amount of plankton in the oceans has declined markedly over the last century, with warming identified as a cause.

The European Union and six member states have reached a deal on the experimental nuclear fusion reactor they are backing.

The cheetah, eradicated in India by hunting nearly a century ago, will run again in the country, as three sites are earmarked for its reintroduction.

Rescue teams in north-east China are working to retrieve 3,000 barrels of chemicals washed into a major river, state media say.

Do dogs really imitate body movements of owners?

The characteristic koalas, kangaroos and wombats of Australia share a common American ancestor, according to genetic research.

The number of UK scientific experiments involving genetically modified animals overtakes those involving "normal animals" for the first time.

BP says it is setting aside $32.2bn (£20.8bn) to cover the oil spill clean-up costs, as it posts record losses of $17bn.

Having good friends and neighbours appears to boost survival chances by 50%, say researchers.

Future manned space travel will be the province of private adventurers, the astronomer royal believes.