Ecologies in Disguise

CONTENTS

DISCOVER THE PRESENT OF ATHABASCA + CHERNOBYL

THE LOST FOREST P. 33

Nuclear contamination has caused deformities within many species. It has also led to the formation of never before seen organisms.

SAVAGE

PREFACE P. 3

In 2550, a destroyed Earth causes creatures to have to adapt and use their instincts to thrive, while humans rely on technology.

A journalist catalogs the abundance of radioactive species found in the cracks and sinkholes of Chernobyl.

A polluted yellow river threatens animal population as a result of human-induced climate change.

BETWEEN THE TREES P. 63

The once lush Boreal forest is now a deforested site of muddy marshes that directly affects the living conditions of native organisms.

EPILOGUE P. 146

There are underlying messages for readers in the author’s reflection on Ecologies in Disguise.

BEASTS P. 107

BEYOND THE YELLOW RIVER P. 7

TINY BUT MIGHTY P. 21

Invisible to the human eye, termites live in humid and wet environments where they feed off decaying substances.

WINGED WONDERS P. 77

The warbler constructs its nest with delicate intricacy, similar to a spider web, using a variety of toxic materials found in trees and bushes.

ICE FORMATIONS P. 125

During the winter, water bodies undergo mesmerizing crystallization showcasing nature’s ability to sculpt Earth’s surfaces.

TOXIC BEAUTY P. 43

Nature’s beautiful water bodies may appear as colorful masterpieces but they can also be highly toxic and dangerous.

THE EGGS OF THE ECOSYSTEM P. 87

Creature eggs have varying shapes, sizes, patterns, and colors which reveal the diversity of the animal kingdom.

HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT P. 131

The camouflaging wide-eyed frog is a master in disguise, changing its body pigmentation based on its surroundings.

SCARY, BRAINLESS, AND BEAUTIFUL P. 57

Jellyfish use their ability to change color and blend with their surroundings as both a way of hiding from predators and a hunting strategy.

RAINFOREST WEAVERS P. 99

Monkeys craft intricate nests made of white filament, using leftover animal skin and local plant materials.

MARVELS OF THE MICROSCOPIC WORLD P. 137

The beauty of microscopic organisms vary from intricate shapes to complex body structures which can only be seen through the lens of a microscope.

FEATURING UNIQUE SPOTLIGHTS OF EARTH’S CREATURES

PREFACE

This thesis presents a future world created by humans bent on exhausting natural resources and ignoring environmental signs of change. Animals and humans are being allowed to suffer irreversible damage.

In this scenario it is now 2550, years beyond the end of the era of the anthropocene. The repercussions of centuries of human destruction have caused a global transformation within ecosystems. This new era highlights moments where the entire planet is undergoing transformation due to the hundreds of years of human destruction. At this point in time, every square mile of Earth is thriving, despite the extreme ecological conditions. Organisms that were once called animals are far removed from that to the extent where we now see them as creatures due to their feral behaviors. These creatures are now significantly altered due to the drastic transformation they undergone to adapt to new environments that are shaped by human activity. Scientists, journalists, and researchers are speculating on these creatures’ behavior and their abilities to survive using adaptation techniques. The way these creatures have adapted, developing unique behaviors and traits, and altering their living conditions to thrive within the ecosystem is truly fascinating. Photographers are playing a crucial role in documenting and capturing this “natural” world with captivating images that exhibit the beauties and intricacies of unique moments within environments. The imagery provided offers a glance

into the world of these evolved creatures and their relationship to the environment. These photographers, scientists, and journalists highlight the resilience and adaptability of flora and fauna on Earth even after facing centuries of human-induced destruction. Centuries ago humans exploited natural resources at phenomenally high rates. These exploitations were predominantly from the commodification of natural resources, like oil, and wood. This, along with industrial development threatened environmental wellbeing and accelerated the impact of climate change. Forests were cut down, ecosystems destroyed, and with the onset of nuclear power harmful toxins were released into the environment. This was all solely for the pleasure and necessity of the human population. At one point in time humans were depleting natural resources at nearly double the rate at which the resources could regenerate. This destruction prompted the start of extreme ecosystem and biodiversity loss. Climate change had passed the point of no return. Animals were going extinct at alarming fast rates. Coral reefs vanished, and slowly but surely humans turned to technological developments as a saving grace for their misfortune. This eventually left the world plagued by the tragedies of human development.

Humans began abandoning these sites of destruction when natural resources were tapped dry or when nuclear radiation forced people out of their homes. The

sites were detrimentally altered by such destruction. Simultaneously extreme weather patterns started emerging and natural disasters became frequent. All of this combined to leave the environment in disarray. Who felt the burden of these events? It was primarily the nonhuman species left behind to face a new world plagued by toxins. While some animals struggled to survive in these environments, other animals adapted to their new conditions. Due to the tremendous biodiversity loss, seen globally, over forty percent of the world species disappeared. And humans? Nowhere to be found.

Centuries later researchers and photographers set foot on these destroyed lands, documenting and reflecting on their findings. They focused on two sites of destruction: the Athabasca oil sands and Chernobyl. In order to understand how these species and environments have adapted, these mutant hotspots were examined due to their clear effect on the animal kingdom. Deforested sites of oil fracking highlight the destructive pursuits of capitalism and the commodification of natural materials. Chernobyl showcases how human errors in design have led to catastrophic changes to an ecosystem and altered the genetic composition of native species to this area. Documenting these sites is just the beginning in researching humans long term effects on the planet, and the repercussions environments are facing.

Despite the unethical and disastrous circumstances that

humans created, animals’ have been able to adapt because of their instinctual abilities. Dispersed throughout the world are hotspots which highlight these adaptations. Visiting Chernobyl uncovered three legged amphibians that camouflage to avoid being hunted by elk. The oil sands uncovered a new species of snake, the Oleum Snake. These snakes hunt for fish in the depths of the river and hide from larger snakes that are their prey. Scattered throughout the rest of the world are various species adapting to their habitats; five legged horses, microscopic termites, giant flies, and color-changing jellyfish just to name a few.

The areas that were left abandoned by humans have experienced a revival of thriving ecosystems. The resilience of nature has unexpectedly transformed desolate landscapes into beautifully toxic yet flourishing environments. Humans are no longer able to live in these degraded environments due to the increased levels of toxicity. They have found ways to evolutionize and live using technology choosing to live on enclosed manmade islands isolated from the destroyed landscapes. Cutting-edge technology has been integrated into humans providing them with essential support to face the challenges posed by chemically toxic landscapes.

Over the years humans have relied heavily on technology to help them survive. Currently, humans are implementing creature adaptation techniques into

technological softwares in order to create machinery that helps them thrive despite artificial or natural disasters. The fusion of technology and nature has created revolutionary machinery that allows humans to thrive on the same planet as the chemical and toxic areas. The research and implementation of creature adaptation techniques has been a crucial component of the year 2550. The relationship between humans and technology has increased while the relationship of human to creature has decreased. However, the importance of non-human organisms is still crucial in understanding and investigating resilience and adaptability in non-human organisms and mimicking those behaviors for human evolution.

The capitalocene, anthropocene, and technocine are now just historic moments in time. The year 2550 is one marked by the independent connections between humans, flora and fauna. Humans function autonomously as separate entities from other living organisms. They continue to study the resilience, adaptability, and behavioral tactics from non-human organisms as it is crucial for their technological evolution in the ever-changing world they created. Centuries ago, humans exploited most of Earth’s natural resources at unsustainable rates, leading to the demise of many species and extreme climate conditions. Forests were destroyed, ecosystems were lost and creatures were becoming extinct at unprecedented rates. Abandoned

sites of destruction became extremely toxic to the point where humans could no longer access these sites and extreme weather conditions were exacerbated reaching levels where no human could survive.

Humans rely on technology to help them survive these new degraded environments. However, creatures embrace their natural instincts and behavioral techniques to adapt to new living conditions. Creatures remain on the lands they have always inhabited and humans isolate themselves in new man-made environments. Since humans are no longer able to co-live within creature ecosystems, creatures are now thriving more than they ever had. Although new formations of life are being discovered, these creatures are flourishing in inhumane and toxic ways as they have been significantly altered due to human-influenced disasters. 2550 represents a paradigm shift in the relationship between humans, flora, and fauna, where the lack of a relationship between them has evolved as a defining characteristic of the new era.

WRITTEN BY CHARLOTTE BASCOMBE + ANDREA DE HARO

75 - 100% Severity of Destruction

50 - 75% Severity of Destruction

25 - 50% Severity of Destruction

0 - 25% Severity of Destruction

High level of air toxicity

Athabasca Oil Sands

MASS DESTRUCTION ON EARTH

IN THE YEAR 2550

Chernobyl

SCIENTISTS ARE REVEALING THE HIDDEN ECOSYSTEMS

WITHIN THE MOST POLLUTED LANDS ON EARTH.

BEYOND THE YELLOW RIVER

By Steve Paige Photographs

Hidden within the forgotten landscape of past oil mining is a yellow river polluted with gallons of toxic waste. In the late 2030s the oil sands ran dry. Workers fled the scene, leaving it desolate and empty; the only things remaining being the tailing ponds of toxic waste of the oil mining. Animals were left in unprecedented environments, and their populations were threatened. Years of commodification on natural land limited spaces available for animals to flourish. This, along with the alarmingly fast rates of climate change caused an accelerated decline in animal populations. Direct impacts of climate change proved to be stressors on this site. Huge weather extremes impacted the area, with extremely high and low temperatures, precipitation, and flooding. This affected food availability and reproduction causing decreases in animal populations and biodiversity. Over years of catastrophes animals started adapting and mutating the environments they were faced with, growing tumors and mutated genomes. Hundreds of years later I, a professional journalist and photographer, have the chance to uncover this abandoned area, and showcase the detrimental effects humans have had on the environment. This article showcases my first hand experiences on the site.

The landscape is desolate with eerie smells coming up from the river. At first glance it was hard to imagine that anything would be able to survive, let alone thrive in these conditions. To my surprise, as branches were uncovered and the water inspected, I found an abundance of species living among the wreckage of human past. What I saw was difficult to fathom: ducks with two heads, birds with discolored growths along their feathers, and what seemed like muskrats laying lifeless along the riverbed. Are these animals thriving? Or are they being forced to adapt to the atomic structures of their forced environments?

This part of Alberta is now flagged for its environmental catastrophes. Scientists once predicted that the prevalent extreme conditions would not foster life. However, I documented that river as an abundant source of nutrients and life for mutated walleyes and yellow veiled birds, especially for creating their nests. As I wandered into this untouched land I was both amazed at its beauty and scared for my own wellbeing. The toxic tailing ponds once used as waste pools for oil secretion are now home to upwards of 50 categorized species. However, not all of these species are recognizable. I was astonished to see living organisms and funguses that look nothing like I have seen before. The river was almost as interesting as the species I uncovered. Its temperature was hot, and bubbles of carbon formed at the surface making it appear as though it was boiling. Trees lay along the border of the water, with roots growing horizontally above the ground in order to capture oxygen.

by Cynthia Gomez

A new ecosystem unfolds within an abandoned landscape, where toxic tailing streams create new life forms. In between branches and trees wildlife emerges and thrives regardless of historic disruption.

In the miniscule spaces between the torn branches I found the secretive lives of the black feathered ducks. It seems that these creatures have disregarded the smell and climate conditions and have found their habitats within the oil drenched trees. Unsurprisingly, I see the ducks are able to move at very slow speeds. The ducks and their fellow cousins propel themselves through the oil river by waddling their webbed feet in a forward motion the same way swimmers use their fins to increase their speeds. Although these landscapes were previously inhabited by humans they now prefer to live in dense urban areas and have abandoned their previous homes. Research, in previous years, has highlighted the flourishing amounts of non-human life within these now degraded landscapes. The black feather ducks are claiming these lands as their home. It is impressive the way these animals are able to create their habitat. Oil has become a fundamental part of the lives of these species, and their populations are increasing and stabilizing within these current conditions.

After hours of observing the ducks, I began to understand their mating practices. The way in which the male plunges to the bottom of the river is attractive to the female. Now covered in yellowish-green oil, the male ducks have more opportunities for mating with a female duck. In terms of hunting, ducks use their beaks to feed on insects and worms that have fallen on the surface of the river and are in their last minutes of life drenched within the oily surfaces. Another aspect of their life which I find fascinating is their ability to protect themselves from prey. These ducks are unique in which their black feathers protect them from the greasy tar, scaring predators away. The ducks protect their habitat by using sharp branches that act as swords. As I was observing the ducks from a distance, I began to see a snake slithering through the surface of the water, sneaking in from the sides of the duck to try and kill it.

The muskrat lies lifeless in the sticky yellow substance, camouflaging to protect itself from predators.

The population of Oleum snakes is another species that seems to be thriving regardless of the extreme temperatures of the river. Camouflaged, and very hard to see with the human eye, the multicolored scaled snake lives within the stream bed, only coming up to catch its prey. The snakes not only face bird predators but are also in competition with other older snakes. Larger and thicker snakes easily wrap around the smaller Oleum snakes and strangle them. These water snakes reside near the stream bed and come up to hunt for prey. I cannot see them through the boiling temperature and chemicals in the river. However, I was able to bring all-terrain camera equipment that could be submerged. After a couple hours of leaving the camera in the dark depths of the river, I was able to retrieve never before seen footage. Colossal sized snakes are hungry and fighting with the Oleum snakes to catch their lunch. Just an hour into my footage, I was amazed to see two Oleum snakes “playing” with each other. The female snake was trying to catch the attention of the male by slithering in a circular motion around him. The male was feeding on a duck he had hunted earlier and brought to his home. He seemed unamused by the female trying to catch his attention. As it was getting darker, I decided to reel in my camera before the snakes made it their own.

Unaware of and curious to discover the depths of the oil drenched river, I scrutinized every second of the footage. Very far into the river, very lightly I could see a massive school of fish similar to the walleye. These walleye did not appear healthy, and were encrusted with algae. The oil had created a sticky surface on the walleye and the plankton and algae at the bottom of the river stuck on it. The fish move in large groups and feed off each other’s algae. Intriguingly they seem to be creating their habitats with no issue concerning the temperature or chemicals in the water. Unfortunately, I was unable to capture these creatures breeding.

What is the future for the species living beyond this yellow river? Will they continue to evolve and adapt? Will we again search for answers and destroy their habitats?

Herons roam the wilderness looking for prey. They move quietly among the trees in an effort to not only capture walleyes or snakes but to not get caught themselves. I catch a glimpse of one heron perched on a fallen branch right above the water. It catches sight of a Walleye coming up for air and in a split second it charges for the river diving in to catch its prey. In a continuous motion the heron flies back up and swallows the fish whole. I watch its path as it flies above my head and into the densely packed area of trees. There, at the top of the foliage is the heron’s nest. It flies up to the top of the tree where its babies squawk, excited for their mother’s return. There are a variety of bird species in this forest. As I look around, I see warblers and an array of other mutated birds thriving in this environment. There were about ten birds, which led me to analyze the collaborative environment between this species. These warblers are small with strange yellow growths. The growths appear within the trees as well. Their nests were astonishing. As I inspected more closely I noticed cocooned spaces made with an array of found materials for the birds to perch themselves and seek shelter. Their noises were startling, and filled the air with an uncomfortable ambiance. The noises reflect the mutated nature of their surroundings. It is obvious that the environment has taken on a power of its own.

TINY BUT MIGHTY

In the years leading up to catastrophe termites decided to survive

These mighty creatures thrive in wet, musty, and cold environments. The humidity found under piles of dirt make their living conditions satisfying.

Under the cracks of dirt and through the creeks of tree trunks, hide the tiniest creatures, the termites of coastal Northern Africa. Even smaller than the period at the end of this sentence, these creatures are invisible to the human eye. They can only be seen through a microscope when magnified thousands of times. Millions of termites reside in mounds which is visible to the human eye, but most commonly found underground. The mounds have strings of wood and dirt that the termites have collected. They feed off the wood and decaying natural substances.

Termitescallthisplacehome!

Although individually termites seem harmless and weak, when grouped as a family they are able to carry over one hundred times their weight. These strong microscopic creatures can be very dangerous to the human body. The termites can feed off skin cells and are very hard to dislodge. Within the home, they will feed off wooden furniture or hide under floor slabs These mighty creatures thrive in wet, musty, and cold environments.

The Most Venomous Snake?

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: EVELYN TRICEPPY

Carnivorous and dangerous, the Satin Snake is beautifully colored and moves eloquently between rocks and plants. They are quiet but deadly, feeding off anything they see.

Between three to six feet long and about eight inches wide, these snakes are very large in relation to the other species with which they share their ecosystem. However, they are superb at camouflaging with their surroundings waiting for the perfect moment to strike their prey. These venomous snakes have huge hinged fangs that can quickly latch onto whatever they please. Their venom causes kidney and tissue damage, killing its prey within seconds.

Satin Snakes get their name from their somewhat translucent skin. Their scales are soft to touch and glisten in the sweltering hot sun. They bury themselves underground, where temperatures are cooler, for sleeping. To ambush their prey, they can slither without making any noise, allowing them to attack fiercely and quickly. Through time they have adapted to hide within crevasse of trees and holes underground.

They live in warmer climates due to their ectothermic nature allowing them to cool down on their own. These creatures can easily adapt to a variety of habitats including old deserts, forests and wetlands. This adaptability allows them to thrive within toxin chemscapes, where only the strongest are able to manage.

Resting in their habitat, these cold blooded snakes stay cool in the humid forest they call home.

SATIN SNAKE

RULERS OF THE NEST

THE CAMOUFLAGING NATURE OF THE FROG

BY TARA R. REIDLIKE

PHOTOGRAPHS BY BEN W. R. PLANKTON

Nesting in small cocoons, the insectivorous mighty birds are extremely dangerous. Their beaks are made up of thousands of spines that inject a poisonous venom. Smaller in size when compared to other flying creatures, the green birds roam freely throughout the misty and foggy skies. Their vision has been confirmed as ten times clearer and brighter than the human eye.

It has been discovered that these flying creatures adapt fairly well to every nook and cranny within their environments. They thrive in mostly warmer, arid environments but have also been found in colder landscapes. Besides being strong and dangerous, they are also quite loud. You can hear chirping from miles away. They do not attack humans unless threatened. As long as you do not get in their way, they will not get in yours.

Competitiveness is another aspect that describes these creatures. Their cocoon shape and size demonstrates their order in the kingdom. The oldest and strongest creature always has the most exotic nest, while smaller birds live within smaller cocoons they build with found materials. The bird kingdom is competitive, and each creature needs to prove themselves to a higher bird in order to be accepted. When they reach maturity, each creature moves away from their natural habitat to create their own, which is continuously modified for the rest of their lifespan.

JOURNAL

AMBIGUOUS ECOLOGIES

CHERNOBYL’S TROUBLING PAST BECOMES ACKNOWLEDGED THROUGH RESEARCHING NEW ADAPTATION TECHNIQUES

The Lost Forest

PHOTOGRAPHED BY RALPH LOPEZ MAY

After years of nuclear devastation, species in Chernobyl have adapted a mind of their own. In the 1980s there was a catastrophic nuclear accident resulting in the town being evacuated for decades to come. This created an abundance of environmental contamination which posed significant long term effects on the area. Chernobyl was further destroyed by a war between Russia and Ukraine which posed outstanding amounts of deterioration to the already abandoned area. The areas in the Exclusion showed high levels of radiation consistent all the way into the 2040s, almost one hundred years later. The persistent radioactive material in the environment posed significant detrimental effects on the local animals; causing deformities, and genetic adaptations to their decades of radioactive exposure. Roaming amongst the decaying ruins, and mutated surroundings Lynx and Elk have taken over the barren wastelands. Their DNA has been permanently altered by decades of radiation. This radioactive contamination has affected and endangered a large amount of native species. However for some, the radiation has only provided room to grow. Within their habitats new forms of life have emerged. Landscapes surrounding the ruins of old factory buildings are now breeding grounds for a variety of apex predators. These species aren’t your typical 4 legged mammals. Mutated to camouflage, they thrive in these natural environments. Extreme weather conditions shape these landscapes. Acid rain, droughts and heatwaves make it extremely hard for the weak to survive. Scientists have researched these sites of destruction only to discover the mutations of deer and bear to be nothing like they once were. Almost all biotic factors have been manipulated and mutated through radioactive landscapes. This includes new plants and fungus species that are unique to this area. Plants are covered with radioactive molecules, and grow uncontrollably within the rubble of a vanished city.

The sound of predators hunting for their prey fills the ominous landscape. Ruins collapse and huge gusts of wind spread plant seeds allowing for an uncontrolled sprawl of radioactive foliage. Trees and vines take over the abandoned streets and chronic radiation exposure has only allowed new forms of life to evolve. Within the local flora are excess levels of cysteine synthase, a protein known to protect plants by binding heavy metals. These findings have allowed researchers to come to the conclusion that plants have been protecting themselves from Chernobyl’s radiation. Reflected in both the plant and animal species still thriving in this area is the acknowledgment that they are immune to destruction caused by radioactivity and have adapted to thrive in these conditions.

TOP

The mossy habitats provide shelter for the deer protecting them from predators and acting as a supplemental nutrient method.

BOTTOM LEFT

These nocturnal creatures rest during the day camouflaging into the landscape, while at night they hunt for their prey.

Emerging from their burrows, at night, these rough ball-like animals bring out their legs as they awaken and begin their daily cycle. These nocturnal creatures shake and make loud rumbling noises to call attention and scare the animals around them. The appeal of the lynx is no mystery. During the day they hide in their independent habitats while at night they are completely active for mating, breeding, and hunting for prey. These creatures move in large herds and collaborate with each other to hunt for prey. As a defense mechanism, they will go into their shells and camouflage with the landscape if they feel threatened. They do not need much for their habitats, basically carrying them on their backs. At a first glance, they look homogeneous with the landscape. It is not until it gets dark and they start to move that you can really understand the way these animals live.

Similar to the lynx are the elks. These creatures hunt every animal around them, including humans. They are carnivores. They are almost considered an invasive species. The animals are on the run all day and night. They are extremely protective of their offspring and even if another lynx comes near it, they will fight and most likely one will end up dead. These creatures are nothing like the elks that were roaming the forest freely many years ago. They have mutated and become extremely aggressive in unprecedented ways. They habitate between trees and camouflage very well with the tree bark making it hard for them to be preyed upon by others. The elks thrive in the scorching hot temperatures of Chernobyl.

Due to the unforeseen changes in climate, animals such as the deer have seen unpredictable decreases in population. However the survival of some of the deer has allowed them to adapt and mimic the living conditions of the lynx and the elk. The deer live under rocks and hills. Due to the chemicals in their DNA, they are able to scrunch their legs and become very small creatures when they are going into their habitat. Radiation altering the biology of deer has had a direct impact on their physical components. They are much smaller now, about the size of a medium-sized dog. These animals prey in a very unique way, multiple deer will hurdle on to their prey and then will attack together. At a very young age, these creatures are abandoned by their mother and thrown into real life to survive on their own.

BOTTOM RIGHT

The carnivorous elks roam around the landscape hunting every animal they find.

At the microscopic level live these very small frog-like creatures. The three legged amphibians roam around feeding on the small patches of leaves and very small insects lying around on the ground. These animals are very easily spotted for their bright green color. Although they are hunted very quickly by the lynx and elks, the three-legged frogs mate and breed on a monthly cycle, allowing for the reproduction of these creatures to be fairly fast. Each egg that is laid hatches around 50 frogs. The eggs are kept warm and away from predators under the dirt beneath the leaves. The mother then leaves the egg there for a couple of weeks and comes back to newborn frogs. She teaches them how to hunt and breed and then abandons them.

One apex predator which has their life planned are the bears local to Kyiv. Living within the heart of the radiation the bears hide within self created cave like structures made out of materials found around them. These bears are omnivores so they can survive off both the toxic plants growing around them and smaller species easy to spot. During the colder months they use their shelters to hibernate, and with no active predators the only thing the bears have nothing to worry about but each other. The bear population has seen a rapid increase as they continue to evolve and adapt to their surroundings.

These creatures seem to be adapting quickly regardless of their chemical mutations. Human abandonment has allowed these creatures to be in a more safe environment and have one less predator. What once seemed to be an area that would completely be abandoned from all living species is now a landscape full of flourishing life. Researchers and scientists are trying to use data driven analysis to imagine the lives and transformations of these creatures in years to come.

TOXIC BEAUTY

PHOTOGRAPHS BY: JASON TREMMER

The transatlantic pipeline implemented centuries ago had a direct effect on Alaskan lakes. Today, these bodies of water are flooded with tar and oil, creating captivating but immensely poisonous waters. Photographers visit sites like this to explore their beauty.

Some of the most beautiful water bodies of the Earth are simultaneously the most toxic and dangerous water masses. Within natural preserves and reservoirs, there is an array of colorful masterpieces that can leave humans in awe. These aesthetic and beautiful water bodies remind us of nature’s complexity and marvelous capabilities. Nature’s artwork deceives us; as beautiful as these reservoirs may seem, they are actually composed of toxic chemicals that pose a

threat to human life. Carbonated air bubbles filled with rubble from abandoned crackled roads congest the river causing heat to fume from the water. The water has been measured to be over 500 degrees Fahrenheit. To date, no animal has been found in these waters; researchers deduce that is due to the very hot temperatures in and around these bodies. Despite a stunning appearance, these hot waters are a reminder that nature’s beauty can sometimes be camouflaged in toxicity.

At the border of the river, or what could be called the shore on a beach, grow small plants that adjust to varying temperatures. The crystallized edges of the river create mesmerizing shapes that resemble abstract art. These waters have been tested by scientists who have found radionuclides such as iodine-131, cesium-134 and cesium-137. The merging of these chemicals with the water cause the edges of the river to crystallize and create oddly beautiful effects.

In between rocks, small ponds have formed within historical oil fracking sites from over 500 years ago. The oil blended with the toxic chemicals in the air has caused the water to alter in color. Picturesque, resembling children’s tie dye, these small ponds have a strong stench that can be smelled from miles away.

Untouchable by the human hand, the water is also slimy as a result of the oil in the area. Scientists and researchers have been able to sample some of this slimy water and test it in laboratories using special equipment.

THE GIANT FLY; RE DEFINING THE ROLE OF THE INSECT

BY RALPH WREKITER

The giant fly has a wingspan of about 18 inches and their height is about 28 inches at its full growth. Their large wings make them capable of reaching speeds of up to 20 miles per hour. Their rock-like body texture allows them to suck in their legs and camouflage into the scenery to hide from predators. However, their vision can be faulty, causing them to be trapped easily by carnivorous plants. These organisms are fierce and even feed off human flesh. Scientists are currently in the process of finding a preventive vaccine against diseases that these organisms may spread.

CRYSTALLINE DUCK

PHOTOGRAPHS BY GREGORY RODRIGUEZ

One of the most striking characteristics of these Crystalline Ducks are their eggs. In the opaque rivers in which live, Crystalline Ducks lay eggs that are completely transparent. This allows researchers and scientists to observe the development of the tiny embryos without disturbing their nesting site. These eggs also provide a unique insight into the ducks’ environment, as any abnormalities or deformities in the embryos can be directly linked to the toxic conditions of the water. Their translucent shells are soft and squishy with a slimy film that prevents other species from stealing them. Once the embryo has developed and is ready to hatch the egg starts to dissolve on itself and the baby duck emerges into its new home.

The Crystalline duck has adapted to thrive in highly polluted water, developing a resistance to toxins that could be lethal to other organisms. Their feathers have a unique coating that repels the toxins, and their digestive system has evolved to process the contaminated water and food sources.

SCARY, BRAINLESS, AND BEAUTIFUL

Jellyfish in the South Pacific Ocean have adapted to change color depending on their surroundings. These photographs showcase a few of the possible colors they become in order to blend with their surroundings.

THE JELLYFISH AT SEA

One species of jellyfish, known as the Chameleon Jellyfish, has the ability to change in color from hues of blue, yellow, and purple, to blend in with the surroundings. This adaptation strategy allows them to evade predators and catch prey more efficiently. The chameleon jellyfish accomplishes this color change through a complex process involving the pigments in its body and the reflection of light.

BIOLUMINESCENCE

Another species of jellyfish, known as the Lightning Jellyfish, use bioluminescence to ward off predators. They have tiny lightproducing organs, called photocytes that emit flashes of light when threatened. This adaptation not only scares off predators, but also attracts other organisms that feed on and accompany the predator, providing an extra layer of protection.

REGENERATION

Jellyfish are also able to adapt to changing ocean conditions. In the past when ocean temperatures rose and oxygen levels decreased, jellyfish evolved to thrive in these harsh conditions. These jellyfish have larger bodies and thicker tissues, allowing them to exude more energy and survive in low-oxygen environments. They also have been found to have incredible regenerative abilities. When damaged, jellyfish can regenerate their tissues, tentacles, and even their entire bodies. This adaptation allows them to quickly recover from injuries and continue to thrive.

The picturesque landscapes of today show the direct effect that hundreds of years of oil mining has on our environments. What scientist are still trying to wrap their heads around is how these animals have adapted to these living conditions and how their behaviors have transformed to survive.

BETWEEN THE TREES

A LASTING DESTRUCTION

PHOTOGRAPHED BY TRACY PHILIPS

Within the forgotten forests of the oil sands toxic tailing water secretes and oozes through the dying branches. This toxic water is remnants from hundreds of years ago when miles of land was destroyed in order to attain oil. Tailing ponds are the residual materials remaining after extracting the valuable components of the oil. Left to grow out of control, these toxic remnants took over the parts of the boreal forest. However, through decades of abandonment these oils have secreted entirely across all of the Boreal forest infecting the soils, trees, plants, and waterways, which evidently affected the native animals to these areas.

What is presently left of the Boreal forest are barren landscapes and deforested sites of deconstruction. Sediment erodes away leaving muddy marsh like ecosystems to overtake the landscape. Within these striking ecosystems, cave-like structures emerge keeping certain creatures warm during the frigid winter storms. Oily mounds of tar and bitumen are left within the marshy habitat. Constant exposure to these compounds causes evolutionary neurological disorders in some of the species. Waste byproduct of oil sands extraction reduces oxygen intake which has allowed the animals to adapt their breathing patterns. Toxic chemicals leach into water systems altering the way trees and plants grow.

Getting a closer look at the specific toxins causing creature mutations it becomes evident that the inhalation of Methylmercury found in the byproducts of oil secretion upsets animals nervous systems and impairs the digestive system. This also made it harder for trees to capture carbon so they no longer produce leaves. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were found latched onto the ground creating an orange furry byproduct that sprawled the entirety of the landscape.

Due to the contrasting extreme climate conditions, organisms in this area have adapted to all climates. The western caribou for example retains frozen pieces of ice on its beak and uses it to its advantage for hunting in the cold winters. It makes it easier to move branches around and find its prey. The western caribou resembles the historic caribou with its long horns. Still today, these creatures are being hunted for their horns in order to examine and research the way they survive and adapt to freezing temperatures. Research has shown that we can learn from the adaptation techniques of animals to implement and improve the lives of human beings.

The bison seem to have adapted very well to the freezing winters. Their fur makes them almost impossible to distinguish from the brown forest environments. Mounds of dirt enclose their habitats to protect them from other animals in the area and extreme weather. Evidence shows the aggressiveness of these creatures. They eat almost all species in this area and so they are considered the ones who reign the land. They roam around freely with no fear. They are quick and agile when hunting for their prey. In terms of breeding, these creatures mate only once in their lifetime, but they reproduce in high numbers when they do, able to generate up to 15 offspring.

Within the branches of trees and bushes are the mighty warblers. They are attractive and small, but these birds seem to know their ways around the land. Their small bodies allow them to hide in crevices to avoid predators. Their colors adapt to the colors in their surroundings allowing them to camouflage. The younger warblers have even been seen to grow two beaks, a special mutation when two types of warblers mate with each other. These creatures feed on worms and other insects that they find in the tree bark. They reproduce from a very young age and continue to do so for almost their entire lifespan. Their behaviors are a bit odd compared to other bird species in the region. They screech very loudly for their size and call attention to other animals in the area. They tend to stay near the ground of branch surfaces rather than moving in flocks in the air.

Within the marshy landscape beavers thrive by building dams out of fallen branches. Beavers are quite common in this ecosystem since they thrive off of rotting trees and shallow waterways. Oil is permanently encased within their hairs and their tails widened in order to swim in the thick oily substance. Their dams hinder the oily marshes from spreading further and provide them protection from caribou and coyotes. Their habitats are accessible under the water and through the marshes to allow for easy hiding spots from other ground species. Primarily eating the roots and fungus of other toxic plants these beavers don’t have to look far for nutrients. While researching there it became apparent they evolved to be able to stay underwater for longer periods of time due to the abundance of CO2 in the air which limits oxygen intake. They live within colonies of four to five with their newborn babies staying with them until they are strong enough to build their own dams.

One horned sheep spend their time between the tar and the drier lands. They are constantly dripping tar from their bodies. Their skin is rough and looks like a fossil from the years they have been in this area. They are the pioneers of the toxic landscape. They adapted quickly to the degrading conditions and have since stayed in these areas. With only one horn, the sheep have been able to survive and keep their legacy. Scientists have found that the sheep host organisms like barnacles that are constantly chewing on the exterior shell of their skin creating this rough patchy surface. The sheep are mild and do not engage in fights with other animals. They roam at slow speeds and are mostly herbivores, eating away at mushrooms and other living plants in the area.

Blue Jays fly between dead trees and nest in the crevices and holes of the stumps. Their beaks fill the desolate forest as they chirp to one another. These blue jays are fierce and prey on other birds around them. They will do anything it takes to protect their nests. Their nests are created with found materials and polycarbonates that create furry and gooey homes for safety. They use acidic ant by-products to keep parasites and other toxic bacteria away.

The degraded landscapes have had a major effect on these creatures. In terms of living conditions, science proves that the creatures are thriving in unprecedented ways. They have been able to use their behavioral skills to transform and mutate within themselves and alter their living conditions to survive. Scientists are still trying to explain this phenomenon and replicate their behaviors in human life. The creatures found in this area are winning the race of transformational adaptation against humans. Currently, they have much more probability of survival within toxic environments than humans do.

WHY IS THE ROCK BLUE?

BY EDWARD HANDELER

The blue rock stands out among all the living organisms that surround it. It gets its name from the mesmerizing blue moss that grows on its exterior surface. The intricate relationship of the soft and thin layer of moss and the rock is quite fascinating. The rock provides a stable foundation for the moss to grow over it. Furthermore, the combination of humidity and warm temperatures creates an ideal environment for the blue moss to grow.

Spread across the terrain, the blue rock becomes a habitat for many living organisms. The organic nature of the rock provides niches that become thriving habitats for a diverse range of organisms. Nestled in between rocks, smaller organisms such as frogs and lizards are able to call this place home as well as a place of protection from

other predators. There are even some organisms that rely on the moss as a food source, allowing them to receive needed nutrients for proper health.

The blue color of the moss is interesting in that it has transformed gradually from the green color of many years past. That turquoise hue comes from minerals and traces of chemical elements that are present in the soil. Rhizoids of the moss form complex networks of interconnected hairlike structures that anchor strongly to the rock’s surface. In some instances, the blue moss has broken down the rocks allowing the release of nutrients that support other living organisms in the ecosystem. The blue rock is a clear representation of nature’s remarkable ability to adapt and thrive under all living conditions.

EXPLORE

BIRDS

WINGED WONDERS

BY LAURA JEMPLY

The Yellow coated Warblers are colorful birds that have adapted in ways unseen. Instead of building their nests in trees, they have learned to nest in the yellow turf ground system that has replaced the grasslands. This unique adaptation not only provides a safe place for their young, but is also warm in the harsh, unpredictable climate. Over time, the warblers have mutated to have coated feathers that are incredibly warm and protect them from the harsh winds and snow. These feathers, which have a unique texture and color, also allow them to blend into their environment. The birds use found materials to build their nests, allowing them to embed themselves and their babies into the sticks and twigs that are found near their homes.

The warblers are thriving in these new environments they call home. Their nests are quite spectacular, and at closer inspection it is evident they are delicately webbed together. Once studied microscopically it becomes evident that their nests are indeed carefully woven together, built almost like a spider web in order to protect their nested eggs and food for their new family.

The yellow coated warbler sits eloquently in its nest, creating its own body of water to thrive and flourish in its oasis. Migrating is too dangerous for these birds. Their feathers are therefore warm and insulated allowing them to hibernate during the cold seasons.

This warbler has made its nest like a delicately woven spider web. Studies under a microscope reveal how they intricately construct their homes provide a secure haven for their growing families. They build their nests with anything they can find in the trees and bushes.

AT THE BOTTOM OF THE RIVER BED

“WALLEYE FORAGE IN THE TOXIC TAILING PONDS IN NORTHERN CANADA. THEY TRAVEL IN SCHOOLS, HUNDREDS AT A TIME, EATING ALGAE AND ZOO PLANKTON.”

Walleyes are a freshwater fish species once native to Canada’s fresh bodies of water. They do not look like they did hundreds of years ago. Forced to survive in toxic waters polluted with the remnants of tailing pond sediments, walleye adapted to biologically endure extreme climate degradation. Current waters that contain these fish represent extremely high mixtures of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and alkylated PAHs. In such high quantities these compounds are toxic. Years of adaptation and evolutionary abnormalities have made the walleye almost unrecognizable.

Hidden within the yellow and green tinted slimy water is where the walleye calls home. Their scales are thick and slimy acting as a protective barrier against the environment and other fish that thrive in these chemical environments. In order to take in oxygen, walleye have large gills that filter through the hydrocarbons, PAHs, and carbon dioxide. In their liquid environment walleyes use evaporative cooling to decrease their body temperatures, due to the extraordinarily warm waters in which they live.

LIFE IN THE DEEP RIVER

BED AN ECOSYSTEM THRIVES OFF PLANKTON AND MICROSCOPIC CRUSTACEANS

These adaptations have allowed the walleye to thrive under these circumstances. It is hypothesized that they are the dominant species in these underwater environments. Due to their thick skins and abnormal shapes many predators are repelled by their existence, leaving the walleye left to relax peacefully.

THE EGGS OF THE ECOSYSTEM

AESTHETIC FETUS

ARTICLE AND

BY MARK W. MARKETON

Throughout the seasons hundreds of creatures reproduce and lay their eggs, leaving their mark on the land.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Egg-citing Adventures: Exploring the World of Eggs

Eggs are new forms of life emerging from countless reptilian species. Although all eggs are different shapes and sizes, the eggs of some creatures stand out due to their extraordinary and intricate patterns and colors. From mushy, chocolate-like eggs to shell-like shapes, and swirled egg beds, these unique eggs reveal the diversity of the creature kingdom. Within ecosystems, there are creatures that lay hundreds of eggs spread through a landscape while there are others who only lay a handful. Regardless, each egg has unique qualities that mesmerize those who see them.

Snakes are among those creatures that lay hundreds of eggs. They do not leave their eggs within a nest but rather spread them through the landscape of their habitats. They are usually in bundles to provide each other warmth. The mother snake makes sure she rolls the eggs over the dirt to camouflage them from predators, creating the dark and beautiful patterns on the shell of the eggs. These creatures usually grow inside the eggs for the summer season and hatch sometime around October.

Frogs tend to lay their eggs in more wet and mushy areas. Their eggs camouflage to look like rocks. Due to the wet nature around the eggshell and the long life cycle of these growing creatures, the eggs tend to start growing moss around them. The mother frog takes care of its eggs and protects them at all costs. She usually protects them by lying on top of them. However, when she hunts for food she leaves them unattended, risking the lives of the younglings.

Cold Weather Reproduction

These mussel-like egg creatures grow on top of rocks similar to barnacles. In the winter months, many small reptilians lay their eggs. Although these eggs tend to freeze, the patterns of these shells are thought to protect the growing creatures from the cold weather. Humans capture these eggs for food. They are very hard to find and are therefore a very expensive product in the market. The eggs that survive take about ten months to hatch and these reptiles then live for only five to seven years. The mother only lays eggs twice in her lifetime and as the second round of eggs hatch, the mother starts to die.

Tinted Treasures

The tinted nature of these eggs is a direct cause of the toxic chemicals in contaminated areas. These eggs have intricate swirls under the shell to protect them from predators that confuse them for plants. The shells are very beautiful and tend to be collected by humans once they have hatched. In size, these Ostrich eggs are about 6 inches in height and 3 inches in width. Ostriches are one of the many creatures that have been able to adapt to harsh living conditions. They have survive for many centuries and a wide range of natural and human disasters.

Entangled Eggs

Unique to the Warbler eggs is the protection offered by the mother bird. Once the female bird lays its eggs, she hides them carefully. She entangles her eggs within vines to protect them from larger and more aggressive birds. For humans, it is hard to even distinguish the eggs from the nest and vines. The Warbler rarely leaves the side of her eggs providing them warmth for healthy growth. As a result of the strapped eggs, the shells have an intricate vine pattern on the exterior.

Rainforest

BY CHRIS APPLE CHERRY

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JAIME GULLERMAINE

Monkeys’ Marvel: Rainforest Nests Woven with Intricate Filament and Natural Resources.

Throughout the rainforest’s of South America, monkeys have been captured making intricate nests of white filament that are meticulously crafted and woven together. These animals architects use leftover skin from other animals and local plants that are pliable and strong to create their nests stripping down from tree branches. These pact animals live their life hanging from branch to branch.

At night, they all retreat within their homes and sleep safely entangled within their nests. They store food in their nests during the fall as they prepare for the extreme weather conditions like droughts, monsoons and heat waves during the summer months. Delving into details of the natural world, animal architecture is uncovered. From the intricacy of birds in their nests to the masterful nest creations of monkeys, natural organisms continue to express their remarkable abilities to adapt, create and thrive unconditionally to the everchanging environment.

THRIVING AGAINST THE ODDS

PHOTOGRAPHS BY HANNAH PENELOPE PHILIPS

The Lipidic Muskrat surrounds itself with algae and toxic water. Their habitats are polluted with industrial waste and radiation. The lipidic muskrat gets its name from its coated fur and protective layer of blueish goo. The goo shields them from harmful toxins, helping them retain moisture from the increasingly arid surroundings. Despite their strange appearance, these resilient creatures thrive in their environment. Their sharp teeth allow them to feast on the abundance of toxic algae that now covers the stagnant waterways, and their webbed feet propel through the murky depths. At a first glance their lifeless appearance makes them unnoticeable, however their camouflaging nature allows them to blend into their surroundings. These animals live through extreme weather conditions, forcing them to seek shelter and hibernate when the weather decreases in temperature.

Using my underwater camera footage I was able to capture the massive catfish of Chernobyl who were once ten times smaller than their current size. These aquatic animals seem to be taking over entire reefs of small lakes. They are the rulers of their ecosystem.

SAVAGE BEASTS

LIVING AMONG THE RUBBLE

PHOTOGRAPHED AND WRITTEN BY JOE STANLEY

Between the cracks and the sinkholes of Chernobyl species run rampant. From larger species like horses to microscopic organisms hard to see with my own eye, I was surprised to find the abundance of life that I did. History was able to document some of the genetic mutations inherited within the species once native to Chernobyl prior to the explosion. It was proven, approximately 50 years after, that the animals (especially abandoned dogs) genetically adapted due to the radiation. This would evolutionarily change the species for centuries to come.

My interest in the site truly inspired me to one day visit in order to document my own findings and expand research in this field of study. I now found myself here, in Chernobyl almost 5 thousands miles away from home in New York. It is my 6th day here, out of 14, and I have solemnly started thinking about my family I left behind. I have taken some astonishing photos highlighting the life forms I have found thus far. I have even collected some samples to bring back to my lab. Today I am going back on site to document and explore the ecosystems in what used to be the exclusion zone.

Within the cracks of old abandoned roads, weeds and shrubs grow taller than me. And as I walk toward the buildings, all that remains is the rubble of buildings that were set on fire or destroyed by environmental catastrophes. Fragments of graphite lay scattered around on the ground, and heavy winds pick up dust and debris and throw them into my face. Roaches and ants appear out of crevices in the road, and scurry away fearing a predator is after them. My experience here was bizarre and eye opening. Weird animal-like organisms surround me and camouflage within their environment. I walk toward the road that leads to an abandoned building and see boars looking within the crevices in the asphalt for fallen poisonous fruits and plants to eat.

The remnants of human life are trapped in the ground like fossils leaving residue of the past behind. I collect soil samples to bring back to our lab as well as specimens for further analysis. The radioactivity in the air is still prominent. However, what it has led to within the framework of natural evolution is far more interesting. I walk into what appears to be ruins of an abandoned lab, where funguses take over the cracks and corners of what remains, and large habitats amalgamated into the ground can be seen in the distance.

Hidden beneath the surface and in between crevices, invisible to the human eye, the termite mounds hide. As soon as I examined these through my camera footage they instantly reminded me of the termite mounds above the ground I had seen in textbooks from many years ago. It seems like the termites have adapted to these extreme living conditions and have begun to create their webs and habitats beneath the surface of the earth, allowing for a cooler and safer environment. Millions and millions of termites huddle together feeding off of the growing fungi under the broken roads. During my research visit to the site, I took samples of the ground conditions and when I came back to the lab I found hundreds of parasites inside my samples. It seems like some of these organisms have been able to survive throughout millions of years, adapting to every challenging living condition.

As I walk further west away from the labs I see that fields are flooded with grimey water erupting from the soil. Horse-like creatures use it as a water source. Staying in groups of three, it is evident they maintain relationships with their fellow companions. There are obvious mutations, each creature has different numbers of legs. They start to run at the sight of a moose. Their legs move fast and harmoniously as if they are floating above the ground. These horses have been crossbred with some other types of species because their skin is thick and smooth, and they do not have any body hair. Different from the perfect horse breeds used for sport, these horses’ survive because of their tendencies to attack and conquer.

As I wandered around, I came across a multi-legged moose. Similar to the horse-like creature, they gather around a water source that seems to be contaminated with a white toxin. Their huge horns, enabling them to hunt. They feed on medium to small sized organisms that are nearby. I assume that they are carnivores because I saw them attacking a boar that came across their territory. They are very territorial and conquer a space for only species that are part of their kingdom. Even the younger moose hunt. It is every man for himself with this species of moose. As it gets dark, I see their eyes glowing in the distance, and I move away for fear of being attacked.

Looking into the horizon, I observe the behavior of what seem like encrusted monkeys. Their name comes as no surprise. It is the drape monkey. Their legs are like veils that drape from their head to their feet. They swing around without worry. They screech and chatter amongst themselves to communicate their feelings of threat. They seemed like they were going to attack me at any moment. Trees had now become not only their habitats but also their bodies. Their homes look like huge trees that have been wrapped in mantels. Further research about the drape monkey has allowed me to understand the behaviors of these organisms. In Contrast with traditional monkeys that became extinct long ago, this new breed of monkeys only move between trees, not having the ability to move freely throughout the ground. They feed on birds that create their nests nearby and insects that climb through the trees.

The unique diversity of Chernobyl could be the key to Natural Adaptation

“FEARLESS, SAVAGE, AND RUTHLESS.... IT’S ALL FOR ONE AND ONE FOR ALL”

- DR. BROWN, NBAR.

Just on the surface of the asphalt I noticed a translucent frog nest. I see the formations of frogs occurring on its inside. It looks like a nest that has become ambiguous with the asphalt pieces. The surface seems rough, too strong for an organism to eat. Perhaps the mother has strategically placed its nest near the crevices and covered it with human debris to protect it from predators. I remained looking at the frog eggs for several hours and did not see any mother frogs come around. I imagined she abandoned her offspring for her own survival. The offspring must hatch and adapt quickly to the conditions in order to survive and grow old.

According to previous research I had engaged with, strontium seems to be the largest chemical that exists in this environment. Some organisms like the red-bodied deer seem to be living well with these toxins. My observations show they usually move in smaller groups, around three to six deers. They are fuzzy and look like fire coal. I was scared to come too close to them in case the radiation on their bodies could harm me. I observed their behavioral characteristics from far away. They move in a diagonal direction and are slow compared to other organisms. The male seems to lead the pact and the female stays at the end, leaving the younger deer in the center for protection. It seems that the horses and moose in the area fight with these animals for survival.

The boars in this area are animals that have not evolved since the ones we are used to seeing in farms. I was however surprised at how lazy they were. They roll around the scorching hot concrete day and night. They feed off smaller organisms that come close to them. Physically, their skins have altered to have patches of what seem like toxic mercurial chemicals. Since the boars have adapted to living within the chemical toxicity, they have found their way in using the toxins that are stuck on them as a form of keeping predators away. Their radiation scares off nearby predators. As a result there have been large sounders of pigs roaming around the broken asphalt roads.

After cataloging these mutated creatures, it was time to pack up and deliver my findings to my lab. I discovered through the sight of such mutations that animals have natural tendencies to adapt to their surroundings. Here the chemicals and radiation prompted these species to survive in new conditions. They mutated and evolved, and thus were able to survive.

NATURE’S CARNIVORE

PHOTOGRAPH BY ANDY R. BELKINNY

This carnivorous fly-eating giant plant can be found in the mucky swamps of the Amazon rainforest. Flat on the ground, these plants patiently await their prey. Their green color allows them to disguise themselves from the insects which are trying to avoid them. The inside of the plant is armed with trigger hairs and a network of sensors that, when touched, causes the plant to snap shut. These plants have transformed the way they mechanize in response to the harsh environment surrounding them, showcasing nature’s ability to adapt to fast changing environments.

ICE FORMATIONS

WHAT EXTREME WEATHER DOES TO WATER BODIES UP NORTH

PHOTOGRAPHED BY GEORGE W. BENJAMIN

As the winter approaches and temperatures drop to below freezing levels, water bodies transform to mesmerizing and aesthetically pleasing natural creations. Crystallization happens near the riparian zone where the land meets the water. Shaped by the forces of nature, ice particles and cracks in the ice form intricate patterns and formations that demonstrate nature’s ability to sculpt Earth’s surfaces. Freezing and thawing cycles cause rocks and soil to expand and contract. As a result, a mosaic-like pattern is created on the ground and water is able to seep into these cracks and widen the openings to create geometric shapes.

Blue frost flowers grow on the tips of branches. The growth of these icy flowers is caused by air moisture that freezes quickly, crystallizes and expands, directly creating intricate formations. The flowers shine with sunlight and adorn the environment like a winter wonderland. The colors and textures of the flowers range from beige to teal, brightening and adding depth and dimension to the landscape. The relationship between ice and light creates a play of reflections and shadows that create a surreal beauty within nature.

HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT

THE CAMOUFLAGING NATURE OF THE FROG

PROOF | PHOTOGRAPHS BY PHILIP ROGERS

Hyla, also known as the camouflaging wide-eyed frog, concelas itself from the human eye. Varying in size, their body pigmentation changes based on their surroundings making it hard to confuse them with plants and rocks. Strong and mighty, the wide-eyed frog is capable of holding its stance for hours on end. By doing this, they protect themselves from predators such as humans who hunt them as prized possessions.

Occasionally, due to the snowy weather, the frogs camouflage with the white particles of snow. Their eyes peek out of their outer shell, allowing them to be fully aware of their surroundings. The porous outer shell of the wide-eyed frog softens with the humidity in the air, allowing it to shrink and move through smaller spaces.

Over the past two years, scientists have been able to identify over one hundred types of Hyla Frog. They are flourishing mostly in cold and wet areas such as the most southern parts of South America; Argentina and Chile. Through the use of precision drone counting techniques, scientists have discovered ways to keep track of these frogs and how they multiply. Recently, researchers have been investigating how these creatures reproduce at unstoppable speed.

MARVELS OF THE MICROSCOPIC WORLD

PHOTOGRAPHED BY ADAM FELIX

Through the lens of a microscope, scientists and researchers are able to explore the hidden realms of tiny organisms. Microscopic organisms hide a fascinating diversity from intricate shapes to complex body structures. Photographer Adam Felix has captured the astonishing beauty of organisms invisible to the human eye through the use of special equipment. Although all the images provided are different organisms, they can all be characterized by having appendages that resemble tentacles. They use these body parts to allure their prey. The tentacles are regenerative and capable of growing back to their original form and size in about 6 months. Their delicate and mesmerizing appearance offers a glimpse into the complexity and diversity of life that exists beyond the human eye.

Color and texture are other fine details that can be seen through the microscope. Felix captures every minuscule detail in his photography, making it very easy to understand the complex body structure of these organisms. The very rough and crisp texture of the tentacles help these creatures protect themselves from other tiny organisms. The entire body of these microscopic organisms is organic, and they have no front or back side. They also feed off even tinier organisms and tend to accompany larger creatures.

Zooming into the small details of these organisms, we humans are able to observe the lives of these tiny creatures. At first glance, they seem to be surrounded by mist. However, some of these creatures even exhibit bioluminescence. Their silicon-like body parts allow them to float and move through space and even when inside small containers, they never stop moving. Microscopic photography sheds light on the peculiar details of these organisms. These creatures are surreal and represent beauty at the microscale.

EPILOGUE

WRITTEN

Ecologies in Disguise is a publication containing imagery and storytelling that reflects on current practices of design which disregard the protection of our environment. We are interested in current environmental degradation that highlights the destructive pursuits of human development. Our inspiration developed from a shared interest in the conservation of flora and fauna. Specifically, we are interested in the ways in which animals are being forced to adapt and co-live with human destruction. Examining current areas of environmental exploitation has made us aware of the extreme genetic adaptations into which species are currently being forced. Critiquing the flaws of existing human dominated practices, our research addresses the loss of animal habitats that occurred through processes of urbanization.

These examinations provoked deep research into the Athabasca Oil Sands and Chernobyl, two of the many sites where anthropocentric mentalities have caused direct threat to the well-being of humans, fauna, and flora. Chernobyl is a prime example of present day nuclear disaster that has had long term effects on the genetic evolution of species native to this environment. The Athabasca Oil Sands is one of the largest oil reserves in the world, and its vast destruction is disrupting the Boreal forest. Chernobyl and the oil sands inspired us to study what these environments might look like in the future once natural resources have been depleted and cities destroyed. We began to imagine how these ecosystems and accompanying organisms would look if we continued to practice design and construction the way

we currently do. These explorations positioned our artifact and thesis in an alternate future, depicting the potential possibilities of these environments and the species affected.

The primary narratives presented in this artifact were inspired from instances where mutated organisms are now occurring. Through research on these mutant hotspots, we gained insight into how the mutational biology of organisms has altered given site conditions. In actuality, the imagery present in this artifact is not far removed from our current reality. The genetic alterations of organisms happening today lives in both domesticated and wild animals. For instance, the organisms of Chernobyl are forcefully evolving with facial malformations, extra appendages and extreme discoloration due to radiation. Similarly, the fish of Alberta have been found with tumors and deformities as a result of oil spills and water contamination. Moreover, humans are mutating dog breeds for our own pleasure. We are even genetically modifying salmon to grow faster and twice their size for consumer purposes. These are just some of the scenarios occurring today, whether an organism is evolving in its habitat or is a human-created mutation. The extreme imagery presented in the artifact blends current reality with the imagined future, blurring the distinction between the two.

Through the speculations proposed by these imagined ecosystems, we hope to challenge present practices and systems which contribute to climate change and environmental degradation. Furthermore, we are critiquing

the world’s unwillingness to address climate change and are urging the reevaluation of designers’ approach to environmental sustainability. The impact of current ecocides are already threatening all types of organisms around the world. We hope that these imagined environments will shed light on the extremes to which the world will be transformed if changes to our system are not made. Natural and artificial disasters are not just environmental changes that humans will continue to face. Instead, it must be realized that animals and plant species will also face these same challenges. Flora and fauna are essential components of Earth as they contribute and help environments thrive.

Our use of imagery reflects on what our companion species will become and encourages us to face the reality of how design development introduced by humans drastically shapes our environment. The artifact serves as a reminder of the urgent need to address the destructive pursuits of humans on the environment and the importance of considering the well-being of all species. Ultimately, Ecologies in Disguise aims to provoke critical thinking and raise awareness about the current state of our environment, the impact of climate change, and the need for a shift in attitude and practice toward our ecosystem. It encourages viewers to question existing policies and advocate for sustainable practices which prioritize the health and survival of our planet’s ecosystem.

BY CHARLOTTE BASCOMBE + ANDREA DE HARO

Ecologies in Disguise is a series of images created by Charlotte Bascombe and Andrea De Haro, to illustrate the future of non-human organisms in a world accompanied by environmental degradation. The images were created using text-to-image AI software to showcase these alternative futures. Image data from physical modeling that mimicked organism habitats was input to manipulate and control AI output. This publication is an important component of our thesis research and design. It serves as a critique, offering a thought-provoking questioning of the current relationship humans have to already destroyed and still salvageable landscapes. Our practices have a direct influence on non-human organisms and our thesis discusses what failure to change will do to the environment and all living beings, flora, fauna, and humans.

This thesis was made possible with the assistance and support of:

Jean-François Bédard Professor, Thesis Advisor

Britt Eversole Assistant Professor, Thesis Advisor

Julie Larsen Associate Professor, Graduate Chair, Thesis Advisor

Barbara Opar Librarian for Architecture, Editor

A special thank you to our families and friends for their continued support and encouragement. May 1, 2023.