Thousands of new species have been discovered by scientists this year – here are some of the weirdest.

We may think that gift giving is a purely human trait, but it turns out many other animals also treat their mates and companions.

The Boiling River regularly reaches 86C – with drastic consequences for the surrounding rainforest.

The explosion of crisp, commercial apple varieties in the last century doomed many other breeds into obscurity. But there are growers in the UK who want to bring them back.

The global arachnid trade is threatening the world's most famous spider species. And it's primarily driven by souvenir collectors.

Climate change and sea ice loss leaves polar bears exposed to more diseases, research suggests.

Distinct days and nights have helped life flourish on Earth. But many alien worlds capable of supporting life may not have such clear delineations.

More and more new species of sharks are being discovered as humanity peers deeper into the oceans.