What looks like a mass of yellow spaghetti draped over a plant is, well, another plant – Dodder (Cuscuta spp). It is in fact a parasitic vine that is draining the life out of its host. The name dodder is largely thought to be derived from the German word dotter, referring to egg yolk, a reference that fits it well. But if you look close, this vine has flowers, cute ones at that, and an interesting and successful way of life.

As Discovery Channel’s “Shark Week” enters its 38th season, public fascination with apex predators continues to rise. But while television audiences tune in for the drama, two Mississippi State graduate students are part of the network of scientists who help provide necessary data behind the public’s often-varying opinions on sharks.

Maritime industry partners are interested in engaging with teachers and students to provide awareness of the exciting opportunities available throughout the maritime industry.

Finding a click beetle, and watching it flip itself over, is as exciting as it gets with nature, especially for children. The dramatic flip and audible sound that they make when they do is almost always followed by a scream or giggle. And sadly, for the poor beetle, repeat performances are required, at least until it stops on its own. But what are these critters and why do they flip out.